Fort Bend Newcomer & Relocation Guide
2018 ISSUE 2
HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
8 201 OPER EL R V E D A OF
THE
YE
17 AMAZING COMMUNITIES. SO MANY WAYS TO LIVE.
More
top-selling communities than any other developer in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017!
America!
RCLCO & John Burns Real Estate Consulting
CREATING ENVIRONMENTS THAT CELEBRATE LIFE. At Johnson Development, we make more than just places to live; we create amazing communities for what you enjoy most. Whether you’re seasoning dinner with herbs from our Harvest Green community garden, hitting the trails in Grand Central Park or splashing at our huge waterparks in Sienna Plantation, you’re sure to find that life is special in a Johnson Development community.
Houston • DFW • Atlanta
JohnsonDevelopment.com Willow Creek Farms
TAKE THE RIGHT STEP. Surgical weight loss, with highly experienced specialists and comprehensive support. Our affiliated, board-certified surgeons, bariatric-trained nurses, dietitians, mental health professionals and peer support groups are with you every step of the way – offering everything from presurgical counseling to postsurgical recovery and support. So when you’re ready to commit to overcoming obesity, we’re ready to commit to you.
Visit MHNewStart.org or call 713.448.START to attend a free seminar or personal consultation. FREE ONLINE INSURANCE VERIFICATION AT MHNEWSTART.ORG
contents|features 21 Fort Bend Map & Cost of Living 33 Master-Planned Communities 39 Fort Bend School Districts 80 Houston’s Active Lifestyle
ON THE COVER Children’s Museum of Houston Photo Courtesy of Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center
PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: GHCVB Houston Cross Creek Ranch Riverstone George Hosek Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Fort Bend EDC Sugar Land Marriott Town Square Fort Bend Christian Academy Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land Sienna Plantation Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Eric Phol The Smart Financial Centre
City of Rosenberg, Photo Courtesy by Lorenzo Lerma
33
80
The City of Meadows Place Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Schlitterbahn Waterpark St.Francis de Sales Catholic School Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy George Ranch Imperial Sugar Land Houston Astros
EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Joy Oden Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino
© WEB Media Group LLC 2018 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
KEEP YOUR HEALTH ON TRACK WITH HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE Houston Methodist provides the care you need to keep you and your family healthy. From regular checkups to more complex concerns, our board-certified doctors offer expertise and access to our network of world-class specialists. Many of our practices offer: • Online scheduling • Most major insurance plans accepted • Convenient locations Visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 281.930.6639 to schedule an appointment.
Long Meadow Farms • Riverstone • Sienna Plantation Sugar Land • Sweetwater
contents|sections WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY • 14
14
21 Fort Bend Map & Cost of Living
HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 22 23 Master-Planned Communities
32 Rent or Buy?
Robert Nusbaum CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal OPERATIONS MANAGER
42 Private Schools
Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino
47 Higher Education
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 50 53 Senior Housing Options
Jill Roe ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Trish Fleming
54 Assisted Living Communities
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 56
Heidi Kerley Paul Yarbrough SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón
57 Moving Companies
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newcomer & Relocation Guide
59 Service & Utilities
is published and distributed
62 International Relocation
bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC For advertising information,
64 Places of Worship
please call 713-952-1916.
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 66
Although every attempt is made to
67 Major Medical Facilities
be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is
68 Finding a Doctor
not responsible for any misprints, errors,
BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 74 75 Area Chamber of Commerce
93
CEO Derek Wright
VICE PRESIDENT
33 Mortgage Options
39 Public Schools
56
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Kevin Evans
EDUCATION IN FORT BEND • 38
38
Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
PRESIDENT
HOME FRONT • 30
22
Phone: 713-952-1916
omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication. WEB Media Group LLC does not
76 Major Employers List
accept responsibility for any loss, injury,
78 Houston by the Numbers
or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.
LEISURE + RECREATION • 80 82 Parks & Attractions 86 Sports & Golf
300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752
90 Arts and Culture
Phone: 512-266-2900
93 Dining & Shopping
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
– ISSUE 2
FIREMANS #4 is the only blonde ale from Texas to ever win a medal at the most prestigious beer competition in the country. Last year, Firemans was judged second best in category from a field of 126 entries from all over the USA.
WELCOME from the
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Success is Just Around the Bend FORT
BEND
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
®
445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: 281-491-0800 Fax: 281-491-0112 www.FortBendChamber.com
Keri Curtis Schmidt 281-491-0216 keri@fortbendcc.org
The secret to success is just around the Bend…Fort Bend. With a population of over 800,000 covering 885 square miles, Fort Bend County is home to 20 cities and villages; each with its own unique flavor and outstanding characteristics. A recent study published by Rice University identifies Fort Bend County as one of the fastest-growing counties in America and as the single most diverse county in the United States and possibly the world. Our local business climate is flourishing from the ground up. At the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to partner in this success ensuring that Fort Bend is the foremost location for economic development and business prosperity. In 2014, the United States Chamber of Commerce awarded the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation for our sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. With 7,077 chambers in the United States, only 82 have earned a 5-Star designation. For over 40 years, the Fort Bend Chamber has diligently fulfilled our mission to serve as the advocate for business excellence in Fort Bend County. We create, enhance and promote the thriving economic environment in which we work and live. Whether it is through our Education, Infrastructure, Governmental Relations, Community Resources, Business and Professional Development, Economic Development, or Healthcare Divisions, we bring value to our members. Our Chamber Young Professionals Division will ensure that the Chamber is delivering value to the future leaders of Fort Bend County. As the voice for business in Fort Bend County, the Chamber strives to understand and inform our members of the important legislative issues affecting our county. Key to this effort is building and maintaining strong relationships with our local, state and federal elected officials. The Fort Bend Chamber is your chamber of connections. You can meet leaders and influencers in the County and have access to a multitude of opportunities to build your business, further your career, stay up to date on community and industry news and form meaningful professional and social connections. The Fort Bend Chamber is a catalyst between business and community for achievement. Graduates of our esteemed Fort Bend Leadership Forum program are serving in leadership positions throughout our community. Additionally, our Leadership Excellence for Nonprofits is a complementary program that builds organizational effectiveness within our philanthropic community. The Fort Bend Chamber invests in the youth served by the seven school districts within the county by providing high school students the unique opportunity to experience how both volunteerism and philanthropy serve the community in our Youth in Philanthropy program. Fort Bend Volunteers provides a county-wide calendar of events and a place for our community to serve. By becoming a member of the Fort Bend chamber, this is a just a snap shot of what you have access to, all right here in one of America’s most dynamic and fastest growing counties, where success is just around the Bend.
KERI SCHMIDT CCE, IOM, President | CEO Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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WELCOME from the
GREATER FORT BEND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL A Vibrant and Growing Economy Welcome to Fort Bend County! If you don’t know by now, you have just moved to one of the best communities in the nation. In today’s world of uncertainty, fiscal irresponsi-bility, increased cost of living, and shaky economic outlook, Fort Bend County is an oasis of stability. Our county and cities are fiscally sound, our tax rates are low and stable, our housing market is among the best in the nation, our low crime rates are the envy of most other areas, and our economic climate is the best it has ever been. We are blessed to live in a state that understands the foundation of economic growth is an attractive business climate and fiscal responsibility. We are fortunate to live in the greater Houston region, where free enterprise and building successful companies is a way of life. And I am here to tell you that we live in a county that recognizes the best path for our future growth is one based on attracting jobs and capital, keeping our doors open to businesses, and helping them thrive.
One Fluor Daniel Drive Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.fortbendcounty.org www.fortbendcounty.com Phone: 281-242-0000 Fax: 866-500-5668
There is also a strong commitment to attracting and supporting the development of amen-ity-rich, master planned communities. Fort Bend County has six of the top twenty selling master planned communities in the nation and master planned communities are the founda-tion that attracts the brightest and best workforce, making Fort Bend the best in the region for high school graduation rates and an educated adult population. Finally, we recognize that the success we have built is open to all. That is why the 2010 U.S. Census found that Fort Bend County is the second fastest-growing county in the state of Texas and the 14th fastest growing county in the nation. Our success today comes from the recognition during the 1980’s oil bust that a community can only thrive with a vibrant and growing economic base. That lesson lives on today in the consistent approach utilized by our community leaders to shape our direction. I pray that the rest of the country can learn from the example provided by our county, region, and state. Until that happens, be thankful you live in Fort Bend County, Greater Houston’s finest address. Welcome to Fort Bend County. Welcome home!
JEFF WILEY President/CEO Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council
WELCOME from
City of Fulshear 30603 FM 1093, Fulshear, TX 77441
THE CITIES OF FORT BEND Dear Fort Bend Newcomers,
City of Katy 901 Avenue C, Katy, Texas 77493
Our cities have so much to offer: sound infrastructure and reliable city services, employment opportunities and job growth, some of the best housing values in the nation, excellent healthcare with award winning hospitals close to home, and outstanding schools, colleges and universities. The solid foundation that our cities have strived to build secures a quality lifestyle for residents today and in the future. The culturally diverse citizens of the county share in the many benefits our cities provide. Beautiful parks and recreation areas, wonderful museums, libraries and public centers, and a network of fine service organizations enhance everyday life. Our vibrant small cities also offer theatres, sporting events, musical entertainment, great dining, and more. Businesses here have a can-do attitude that reflects our pioneer heritage. With relatively low tax bases, incentives from the public and private sector, and a well-educated workforce, major corporations and entrepreneurs alike are discovering even more reasons to do business in our cities. While growth here is substantial, the small town environment of our cities prevails. The communities across the county embrace the spirit of friendship and camaraderie that has forged strong alliances between neighbors. Texas is a great state and Fort Bend County is among one of the finest places to live – no matter which city you chose! Welcome to your new home and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you personally. Sincerely,
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Aaron Groff, Mayor City of Fulshear
Evalyn W. Moore, Mayor City of Richmond
Chuck Brawner, Mayor City of Katy
William T. Benton, Mayor City of Rosenberg
Charles Jessup, Mayor City of Meadows Place
Leonard Scarcella, Mayor City of Stafford
Allen Owen, Mayor City of Missouri City
Joe R. Zimmerman City of Sugar Land
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
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Call to Order Kinetic Today 1-866-877-7662 windstream.com/Sugarland Kinetic Internet: Windstream cannot guarantee speeds or uninterrupted, error-free service. Speed availability, capabilities and provisioning vary depending on network and terrain conditions, Internet, website, or network congestion, and customer geographical location. Windstream makes no representations related to download or upload speeds. Windstream assumes no responsibility or liability for interruption of services or service performance differences actual and advertised performance. Š 2018 Windstream Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Kinetic and Windstream are registered service marks or trademarks of Windstream Intellectual Property Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
WELCOME from
THE FORT BEND AREA Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in the Fort Bend County and take advantage of what the community has to offer. Welcome to Houston! You’ve just arrived at one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, incredible cuisine, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation destinations, and home of the World Champion Houston Astros. As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll probably notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.
HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax: 713- 961-4869
BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax: 281-486-7530
MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760
The Houston real estate market has been one of the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle, whether you plan to buy or rent. The 37,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR) help make the American Dream come true for individuals and families every day. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization and our members appreciate that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make. More than a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which actually showcases property listings for the entire state of Texas. Our site offers dozens of user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more. Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more.
Fax: 936-273-0344
On behalf of HAR, it’s my great pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you take advantage of everything our incredible community offers.
FORT BEND
Sincerely,
6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557
Kenya Burrell-VanWormer 2018 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS®
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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Photos courtesy of Fort Bend EDC
in this section welcome culture shopping & entertainment transportation
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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to e m o c l e W
FORT BEND COUNTY A diverse, white-collar population surrounded by museums, performing arts centers, pro sports and a Tier 1 public university. Historic buildings transformed into bustling urban centers with shops, hotels and chef-driven restaurants. New townhomes and brownstones artfully mixed with traditional homes. Fortune 500 companies housed in gleaming buildings designed by big-name architects.
Are we talking about Central Houston, or
Named for a modest wood fort built on
almost equal division between the nation’s
the core of any other big city? Nope. This
a bend in the Brazos River, Fort Bend has
major ethnic communities – Asian, African
is Fort Bend County, located less than 30
become a regional and national dynamo
American, Latino and Anglo. “Fort Bend
miles southwest of Downtown Houston,
that’s grabbing accolades and superlatives
County is the new America,” said Houston
and even closer to major employment hubs
for its forward-looking vision and quality
political strategist Mustafa Tameez in a New
including the Uptown/Galleria area, the
of life. Site Selection magazine describes
York Times article on the county’s diversity.
Texas Medical Center and Greenway Plaza.
Fort Bend as “the crown jewel of suburban
Founded in 1837, Fort Bend is approaching its second century with unbounded optimism and a population rapidly approaching the 800,000 mark, putting it among Texas’ top 10 most populous counties.
Houston,” but the county’s appeal extends
Fort Bend is booming, ranking as one of
far beyond the Gulf Coast region.
the fastest-growing counties in the U.S., according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Fort
Rice University sociologist Stephen Kline-
Bend consistently ranks among the top
berg calls Fort Bend the most ethnically
3% of U.S. counties in key demographic
diverse county in the United States, with an
measures such as education, household
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
15
WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY
that have recently announced expansions in Fort Bend include Texas Instruments, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, Nalco Champion and Fluor Enterprises. Fort Bend County is already a total community where residents can live, work and play. The next phase of Fort Bend’s vision is to become a destination for visitors while continually enhancing the quality of life for its residents. With major new arts and recreation projects already in progress, Fort Bend is ready to make its vision a reality within the next few years.
CULTURE Photo Courtesy of Meadows Place; Monarch Butterfly Festival
Fort Bend’s cultural renaissance began in 2009, with the opening of the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land. One of the county’s historic treasures, the
income and employment. Sugar Land, the county’s largest city, was named one of the nation’s top small cities for families by NerdWallet, which analyzed data using several metrics for “family friendliness.”
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“We set out to become a world-class county, and now the word has come to us,” said Jeffrey Wiley, president and chief executive officer of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council. Major companies
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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Central State Farm building, was repurposed from its previous life as a prison dormitory into a gleaming new museum that hosts permanent exhibits, traveling shows and special events.
EXPRESS START™ BREAKFAST The real breakfast of champions? The kind that’s complimentary and waiting for you every morning. We’ve got a whole buffet full of offerings ready to help kick start your day.
EXPRESS ESSENTIALS We’re big on the little things. Like Wi-Fi, coffee and tea, and all the in-room conveniences that make you feel right at home, even when you’re away.
EXPRESS RECHARGE Power up while you power down. Bedside outlets, a plush duvet, your pick of pillows, and a quiet place to settle in means you’ll get some solid shut-eye.
BRAND NEW
Houston SW-Missouri City, TX HOTEL FEATURES Hot Daily Breakfast Buffet Business Center Outdoor Pool Guest Laundry Facilities Fitness Center Meeting Room Complimentary Parking Complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet Connecting Rooms Flat Screen TV
HOTEL AMENITIES • J.R. Watkins/Bath & Body works products • Delicious Keurig coffee in each room • In-room safe • Microwave & refrigerator in each room
We here at Holiday Inn Express and Suites are so excited to be apart of the Missouri City/Sugar Land community. In keeping with Holiday Inn Expresses award-winning standards we opened our doors on September 18, 2018 to be centrally located from the business community, exciting entertainment venues and some of the finest shopping and dining Texas has to offer. Our staff are here and ready with stellar service to genuinely greet guest with a smile and a commitment to anticipate guest needs even before arrival. Our employees are engaged to always deliver the highest regards of respect, integrity, honesty and service. IHG has created a rewards program that is second-to-none for our members to book, earn and redeem points across over 5,500 hotels throughout the world. Plus, we’re adding our own touch, join our Facebook page and drop your business card off and your entered in our 10,000 rewards points drawing each week. So, pack your bags, our doors are open and breakfast is hot. We have 84 sleeping rooms and 2 meeting spaces to accommodate your next event or meeting. We are located right off Highway 6 and Colonial Lakes Dr, Missouri City, Texas CONTACTS DETAILS
LOCATION DETAILS
Reservations call: 281-969-8650 Groups and meetings: Sales Manager Alyce Williams Alyce.wlliams@KPartnersusa.com (or) 281-969-8650 press 0
5 miles from Smart Financial Center 21 minutes from Medical Center 16 Miles from the Galleria 23 Minutes from the NRG Stadium
WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY
SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT
FORT BEND
ACCOMODATIONS The Fort Bend area is full of many comfortable and notable hotels to accommodate travelers in the area. Below is a list of members of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce that are ready to be the prerequisites to any newcomers move to the area.
HOTEL
CITY
PHONE
Avalon Group
Sugar Land
281-201-2373
Best Western Sugar Land Inn
Sugar Land
281-232-0680
Courtyard by Marriott
Stafford
281-491-7700
Courtyard by Marriott Sugar Land/Fluor Central
Sugar Land
281-494-0556
Drury Inn & Suites - Sugar Land
Sugar Land
281-277-9700
Hampton Inn / Stafford
Stafford
281-565-0559
Hampton Inn & Suites / Missouri City
Missouri City
281-208-7901
Hilton Garden Inn Houston/ Sugar Land
Sugar Land
281-491-7777
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Missouri City
Missouri City
281-969-8650
Home 2 Suites by Hilton
Stafford
346-309-2240
Hyatt Place Houston / Sugar Land
Sugar Land
281- 491-0300
La Quinta Inn & Suites Stafford / Sugar Land
Stafford
281- 240-2300
Residence Inn by Marriott
Stafford
281- 277-0770
Staybridge Suites
Stafford
281- 302-6535
Sugar Land Marriott Town Square & Conference Center
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Sugar Land
281- 275-8400
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, a project of the Children’s Museum of Houston, opened in 2016 in the historic Imperial Sugar Factory, the focal point of the visionary Imperial Sugar Land redevelopment project. Located on the ground floor of the factory’s former container warehouse, the 10,000-square-foot museum will have 6 major exhibits and an outdoor play space. The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation museum opened their doors in January 2018 on the second floor of the same building. The 12,600-square-foot space includes several exhibits detailing different chapters of regional history, along with a rooftop space for outdoor events. Fort Bend is making huge strides in creating and enhancing parklands for its residents, thanks to a recent bond issue overwhelmingly approved by voters. Projects include the 67-acre Brazos River Park, located off I-69, near the University of Houston. The park is adjacent to a 52-acre festival site that will host music festivals, cultural celebrations and other big events. Fort Bend entered the world of professional sports when the Sugar Land Skeeters minor league baseball team played its first game at Constellation Field in 2012. The Skeeters became the first new independent baseball team in the Houston region since the Houston Buffalos played their final season in 1961. With a capacity up to 9,500, Constellation Field also hosts concerts and other sports events. Fort Bend is home to Brazos Bend State Park, a 5,000-acre gem located just 40 miles from downtown Houston. This popular park offers biking, fishing, hiking, birding and camping. It’s perhaps best known for stargazing at the George Observatory, a satellite of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Opened in early 2017, the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land is the area’s first stateof-the-art indoor performance venue. At U.S. 59 South and University Boulevard, this $84
million project will position Sugar Land as a destination location for culture and entertainment, with flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate from 3,000 to 6,400 guests.
Photo Courtesy by Sweetwater Country Club
Fort Bend County has its own distinct downtown, Sugar Land Town Square, visible from U.S. 59 South. Envisioned nearly 20 years ago, the 32-acre development has become a focal point of community pride and has provided a “Main Street” where residents can work, live, shop and gather. This pedestrian-friendly town center today offers national brand stores and unique boutiques, buzzworthy restaurants, office buildings, a hotel and a 1.4-acre plaza that hosts year round events such as the popular Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair.
EDUCATION Education is a major reason for the broadbased appeal of Fort Bend County. Its largest school district, the Fort Bend Independent School District, is the seventh largest in Texas and is a regional leader in
high school graduation rates. Fort Bend ISD rank among the best in Houston, according to Niche.com, a review website. Niche gave Fort Bend ISD an “A” grade for academics and an “A+” for student culture and diversity in its latest report.
Fort Bend also boasts higher education. The University of Houston, a Tier 1 research university on a par with Texas A&M and the University of Texas, recently designated its growing Sugar Land campus as an official branch of the main campus. University
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
19
WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY
Photo Courtesy of City of Meadows Place, Sunset at the Park
Photo Courtesy of Riverstone
of Houston plans to launch or expand 22 programs at its Sugar Land campus, and also to relocate a large segment of its College of Technology there.
Fort Bend also has its own airport, Sugar
TRANSPORTATION
Healthcare is yet another strength for Fort Bend, where Sugar Land’s Memorial Hermann Hospital recently earned the Texas Award for Performance Excellence by the Quality Texas Foundation. The first Houston area hospital to earn this honor, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land recently completed a $93 million expansion. Houston Methodist Sugar Land and St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital also add to the area’s healthcare excellence.
Mobility is another priority for Fort Bend, where $250 million has been earmarked for major transportation projects over the next 10 years. In all, 35 significant mobility projects are under way, including five major highway projects. These include an extension of the popular Westpark Tollway, west from its current terminus at the Grand Parkway, and a westward expansion of FM 1093, greatly improving access to the booming Fulshear area west of Katy. Fort Bend is also benefitting from the upgrading of U.S. Highway 59 South, also known as the Southwest Freeway, into an official interstate highway. To be known as I-69, the newly designated interstate will become a major trade route for commerce between the U.S., Mexico and Canada. With the completion of the Grand Parkway from U.S. 59 South in Fort Bend County, all the way north and east to U.S. 59 North, residents now enjoy an express route to The Woodlands, Montgomery County and other destinations.
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Land Regional Airport, which continues
MEADOWS PLACE
to grow and modernize as a general avia-
Wall of Heroes • Mark McGrath
tion and corporate airport.
Municipal Park • Tennis Courts &
With its winning quality of life, it’s no surprise that Fort Bend County boasts more nationally top-selling masterplanned communities than any other area in the Houston region. In fact, Fort Bend has more new-home sales in MPCs than any other place in the country.
Playgrounds • Recreation Lake MISSOURI CITY Quail Valley Golf Course • Sienna Stables • Fort Bend County Library RICHMOND George Ranch Historical Park • Fort Bend Museum • Texian Brewing Co. ROSENBERG Rosenberg Railroad Museum • Fort Bend County Fair • CAST Theatrical Company • Brazos Town Centre STAFFORD Main Event • Shri Swaminarayan Mandir • Stafford Centre of Performing Arts
Despite the fact that its last sugar cane crop was harvested in 1928, Fort Bend County
SUGAR LAND
still gives off a distinctly sweet aroma – a
Constellation Field • Sugar Land Art
fragrance of “Home Sweet Home” that
Center and Gallery • Cullinan Park
persuades thousands of newcomers to put down roots here each year.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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Smart Financial Center
IN ST
ff a Bu
Simonton
lo B
Fulshear
1463
Weston Lakes
6
Meadows Place 69
1876 59
RICHMOND 1640
Beasley
3345
Booth 762
2977
360
Population......................................741,237
90A
Smithers Lake
Change fm 2010.................................26.8
MISSOURI HOUSTON CITY
2759
2218
36
1092
762
Pleak
541
Stafford UP
SUGAR LAND
New Territory
69
540
Kendleton
HOUSTON
1464
359
529
ON GULF COASTAL PLAIN; DRAINED BY BRAZOS, SAN BERNARD RIVERS; SMITHERS LAKE; LEVEL TO ROLLING; RICH ALLUVIAL SOILS.
IS
2234
FT. BEND PARKWAY
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Fort Bend County
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99
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HOUSTON
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1489
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90
R
E LL
Area (sq.mi.)......................................885.3 Land area(sq.mi.)..............................861.5
Pearland
521
Altitude (ft.).....................................46–158
Fresno
Rainfall (in.)........................................50.35
Arcola 6
Thompsons BNSF
Jan. mean. min...................................44.1
521
59
Sa
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nB
Needville
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361
July mean max....................................94.9
Juliff 1994
BRAZOS BEND STATE PARK
762
BR
AZ
O
Civilian labor..................................355,461
A RI
Unemployed..........................................5.1
1994
RT
1236
Wages.................................$2,146,774,075
ON
Guy
442
36
Woodrow
1462
Per Capita Inc...............................$56,086
LR
Cow
BRA
ZOR
IA
Damon
Prop. Value.......................$71,605,229,555
Creek 0
Retail Sales.........................$8,234,641,375
8 MILES
Fort Bend County © Texas Almanac
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
COST OF LIVING When it comes to overall cost of living, Houston is still an affordable place to live and work. Here’s how the Houston area ranked in a comparison to other major U.S. cities (based on Q1 2018) City
Composite 100%
Grocery 13.61%
Housing 27.59%
Utilities Transportation 1 0.06% 9.59% 4.00%
Healthcare 35.15%
Atlanta
99.0
103.3
96.5
Austin
98.1
87.6
101.6
Boston
146.7
105.8
Chicago
123.8
Cleveland
100.0
Dallas/Fort Worth
103.1
99.7
105.5
Denver
111.7
97.4
134.6
86.3
103.9 109.0 97.5
Houston New York (Manhattan)
97.7 240.0
86.6 100.0
107.5 101.6
93.8
91.7
100.4 101.9
207.5
127.5 112.0
135.8 129.3
107.9
157.2
92.4 126.7
101.5 114.1
111.8
87.7
99.5 101.6
100.9 105.0
138.0
Phoenix
95.7
Raleigh
94.7 102.7
97.9
505.2
105.5
98.5
89.0 103.5
116.5
130.2
95.5 104.9 92.7 84.0
93.1 99.0
San Francisco
194.1
126.3
363.7
122.2
Seattle
149.6
126.9
199.4
114.4 133.0
Tuscon
Misc.
93.7 102.1
79.7
132.6
95.1 96.1
102.5
103.2
105.5 108.1 91.3 94.8 115.3
145.2
97.7 92.8 100.2 98.8 125.1
128.8
123.7 135.8 100.3 99.8
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
21
in this section
City of Rosenberg, Photo Courtesy by Lorenzo Lerma
master-planned communities cities neighborhoods
22
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS Along with large-scale communities, newcomers will also find everything from established smaller neighborhoods to exclusive gated enclaves. The variety is just one more aspect of Fort Bend’s dazzling diversity.
Following are brief introductions to some
Ranch Hill, a 40-foot incline affectionately
In addition, the association is currently
of the most significant neighborhoods,
dubbed as Mt. Fulshear, is a popular place
updating
communities and municipalities in Fort
for residents to walk their dogs, fly kites,
ties.
Bend County.
enjoy picnics or simply relax. One of its
Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479.
the
recreational
ameni-
FCCA is located at 4350 Austin
most unique amenities is the Italian Maid Café, offering everything from Lasagna
HARVEST GREEN
Bolognese to Chicken Aioli for dine-in or
One of the newest and most innovative
takeout. Located at the crossroads of FM
master-planned communities in Fort Bend
1463 and FM 1093, just west of the Grand
County, Harvest Green is a 1,300-acre devel-
CROSS CREEK RANCH
Parkway and Westpark Tollway, Cross
opment with more than 30 acres of lakes and
The master plan for this community was
Creek Ranch is served by the award-win-
waterways, 280 acres of greenbelts and open
designed with two priorities – to enhance
ning Katy and Lamar Consolidated school
space, and 50 acres of parks. Harvest Green
the lifestyles of its residents, and to be
districts. www.crosscreekranch.com
also offers a network of walkable trails and
MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES
eco-friendly in the process. The results are
a central roundabout designed to enhance
evident in Flewellen Creek Park, a 150-acre
FIRST COLONY
connections between friends and neighbors.
park that winds through the heart of Cross
First Colony, one of the early residential
Located on the banks of historic Oyster
Creek Ranch, providing a habitat for birds
developments, has grown to more than
Creek, Harvest Bend is part of the highly
and wildlife while also connecting the
60 neighborhoods and 400+ commercial
regarded Fort Bend Independent School
entire community. Covering nearly 50 acres,
businesses. The First Colony Commu-
District. As the first “Agri-hood” in the
Polishing Pond is a beautiful nature habitat
nity Association (FCCA) set innovative
Houston area, Harvest Green has an onsite
and water quality basin that’s almost the
guidelines for the community and main-
farm, offering residents the opportunity to
size of 48 football fields. More amenities
tains
streets,
join a community supported agriculture
include the Adventure Island Water Park,
lakes and parks. FCCA keeps the sense
program and receive fresh produce each
miles of hike and bike trails, Arbor Park,
of community strong through monthly
week. Each new home in Harvest Green will
and a spacious fitness center. Cross Creek
newsletters and events for the residents.
also include a ready-to-backyard garden, and
beautifully
landscaped
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
23
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
a lifestyle director will create resident-only culinary
classes,
farm-to-table
dinners
with guest chefs, wine dinners, gardening classes and much more. Ultimately, Harvest Green will include up to 2,000 homes. www.harvestgreentexas.com
IMPERIAL SUGAR LAND Imperial Sugar Land is a mixed-use rede-
in the Imperial Market retail center this past year. The development will also include an A luxury hotel on site, office space and luxury apartments. New-home offerings at Imperial Sugar Land include townhomes, patio homes, brownstones and executive homes, at prices from the high $400,000s to $800,000+. www.imperialsugarland.com
are offered by six leading homebuilders, including
David
Weekley,
Highland,
Newmark, Perry, Plantation and Westin. jordanranchtexas.com
KINGDOM HEIGHTS Kingdom
Heights
was
carefully
and
uniquely designed to provide “lakefront” and “park side” living to homeowners at
velopment of the famous Imperial Sugar
JORDAN RANCH
Company site, which processed sugar there
One of the newest communities from
Heights is a 572-acre master planned
for more than 160 years and was the oldest
Johnson Development, Jordan Ranch is
community with 12 lakes and 39 parks being
continuously operated business in Texas.
located in Fort Bend County – one mile
developed on 150 acres, water and green
Located just 18 miles southwest of Houston,
from I-10 West and with convenient access
space will separate this community from
Imperial Sugar Land is a 651-acre commu-
to the Grand Parkway, which now extends
any other in Fort Bend County. The commu-
nity that consists of the 165-acre Imperial
all the way from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59
nity includes a large recreation center with a
tract and the 525-acre Texas General Land
North. Planned for 2,800 homes, this 1,350-
resort style pool and fitness center. Excellent
Office tract. The iconic Char House and
acre community is also planned to include
Lamar ISD schools; Foster High School and
other structures in the factory are being
a swimming pool, pocket parks, and hike
Briscoe Junior High are right down the road.
developed into what will be a thriving
and bike trails. Near the Energy Corridor,
Kingdom Heights is just minutes from Sugar
complex of museums, shops and restaurants.
Jordan Ranch is part of the highly regarded
Land Towne Centre, the Stafford Civic
Imperial Sugar Land is also a community
Lamar Consolidated Independent School
Center, Fort Bend Theatre and an array of
of tree-lined streets, lakes, parks and trails.
District, with new junior high and high
local shopping, dining, entertainment and
The popular Alamo Drafthouse dine-in
schools opened in 2016, and a new elemen-
recreation opportunities. New-home offer-
movie theater opened a nine-screen theater
tary school that opened in 2017. New homes
ings in Kingdom Heights start from the
an affordable price in Rosenberg. Kingdom
CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 >
24
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
L IVE ON A LAKE OR PARK Kingdom Heights is a premier master planned community with 150 acres of parks and lakes. The community was carefully designed to be unique in Fort Bend County and offer affordable living with outstanding amenities. Most home sites in Kingdom Heights are built on a lake or park. This provides comfortable space throughout the community with room for families to grow and play. Walking throughout the community will lead you to several parks and large lakes for fishing from the shore or canoe. Amenities in Kingdom Heights are extraordinary for an affordable location. The large Recreation Center has a full kitchen and a large area for hosting parties indoor or on the patio by the pool. The Fitness Center is a fully
equipped gym for residents with a convenient look out to a playground for the kids. Other amenities include a resort style pool, sport fields and more! If you are looking for value and want to live in a unique, family friendly Fort Bend County Master Planned Community, Kingdom Heights is without equal. Follow Kingdom Heights on Facebook to keep up with their latest events and happenings.
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
$200’s from three quality builders. Section
safest cities in the U.S.” by Congressional
heart of Fort Bend County, with addresses
4 of the community opened Fall 2017.
Quarterly, and being named among the
in Sugar Land and Missouri City. Schools
Kingdom Heights development plan will
“Best Places to Live in America” by Money
are part of the highly regarded Fort Bend
eventually have 1,430 home sites.
magazine. Look at available homes and view
ISD, and Riverstone also offers convenient
the Top 10 reasons to live in Quail Valley at
nearby shopping at First Colony Mall,
their website, www.quailvalleyfund.org
Sugar Land Town Square and many more.
QUAIL VALLEY FUND
www.riverstone.com
Nestled among mature trees and quiet streets, Quail Valley offers the best of both
RIVERSTONE
worlds: proximity to downtown Houston
One of the top-selling communities in
SIENNA PLANTATION
and the Texas Medical Center, along with
Houston, in Texas and the nation, River-
Sienna Plantation is a comprehensive 10,800-
expansive green spaces where residents
stone is a 3,700-acre community planned
acre master-planned community located
can enjoy golf, tennis, and fitness activities
for 6,000 homes and approximately 18,000
between two acclaimed cities – Missouri
within the subdivision. Built in the early
residents
homes
City and Sugar Land. One of the top-selling
1970’s as Fort Bend County’s first master
are priced from the $300,000s to over $1
communities in Fort Bend County, Sienna
planned community, Quail Valley Fund
million and include townhomes, patio
Plantation offers new homes by more than
is proud of its continuing commitment to
homes, traditional single-family homes and
16 leading builders, with styles including
maintaining the quality of life that resi-
luxurious custom homes. Resort-quality
patio homes, single-family homes and
dents have come to expect and enjoy. The
amenities include the signature 17-acre
luxury custom homes. The lifestyle includes
Quail Valley Fund works closely with local
Club at Riverstone, 200 acres of lakes, and
Club Sienna, a 12-acre recreation complex
government officials to ensure the commu-
another 500 acres dedicated to open spaces
that’s home to the largest water adventure
nity’s continued positive growth and public
and recreation. Riverstone has three pool
park in the South, with 200 feet of twisting
safety. Some results of this partnership are
complexes, including the newest pool at
slides, three diving boards, a junior Olympic
evident in the many awards and recogni-
The Club, offering twisting water slides,
pool and a zero-entry lagoon. Sienna Planta-
tions that have been bestowed on Missouri
spray elements, a zero-entry lagoon and
tion also offers 34 parks, miles of trails, and
City, including being listed as one of the “50
a splash pad. Riverstone is located in the
the 18-hole Sienna Plantation Golf Club.
at
completion.
New
A Concierge Full Service Brokerage. Build, Live, Leave Your Legacy. RE/MAX Legacy Living is an elite full-service real estate brokerage, specializing in new construction sales, luxury, commercial, investments and consulting. They provide a custom and concierge experience to their customers’ experience and have a passion for exceeding expectations. Our associates understand that it’s all about you, our clients. We cover all aspects of the real estate transaction and provide expert consultation to investors and new home builders.
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281.671.6288 • www.fortbendmls.com 26
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
Camp Sienna is a 160-acre sports park along
1983, Meadows Place has its own dedicated
the Brazos River Corridor, with fields for
police department, with no municipal utility
baseball, soccer, volleyball and basketball,
district taxes or homeowners association
plus 1.5 miles of trails. An active commu-
fees. Zoning ordinances, deed restrictions
nity, Sienna Plantation has more than 40
and commercial property regulations are
annual events and more than 200 fitness
strictly enforced, maintaining the residential
classes every month. Schools are part of
quality of the neighborhoods. In Fort Bend
the highly rated Fort Bend ISD. Traditional
ISD, the city has one of the youngest popu-
single-family
low-maintenance
lations in Fort Bend County, a rising per
patio homes and luxury custom homes are
capita income level, and an active social life.
priced from the high $200,000s to over $1
www.cityofmeadowsplace.org
homes,
million. www.siennaplantation.com
VERANDA With ground broken in late 2016, home construction is expected to begin in early 2017 at Veranda, the newest Houston area community from Johnson Development Corp. Located near U.S. 59 South and Williams Way Boulevard, this 590-acre community is named for The Veranda Hotel, a Richmond boarding house opened in 1837 by Jane Long, considered to be the “Mother of Texas.” True to its name, Veranda will encourage its leading homebuilders to incorporate inviting verandas and other timeless details into new homes. “We want this community to reflect the rich heritage of Richmond, both visually and figuratively,” Trey Reichert, Veranda’s general manager. Planned for up to 2,500 homes, Veranda will be Johnson Development’s seventh Fort Bend community. Amenities are planned to include miles of trails, streams and lakes. Schools are part of the highly regarded Lamar Consolidated Independent School District. For more
FULSHEAR, SIMONTON, AND ORCHARD
home, and the community continues to grow at a rapid pace. Fulshear is served by both Lamar CISD and Katy ISD. With less than 1,000 residents, Simonton is located 14 miles from Richmond and maintains a country atmosphere that harkens back to its founding days in the 1850s. Orchard has less than 500 residents. Like Simonton, it is also a farm and ranch community that was settled in the late 1800s. The Lamar Consolidated Independent School District serves Fulshear and Simonton, while the Brazos Independent School District operates an elementary school in Orchard.
Fulshear, Simonton and Orchard are lovely rural towns in the northwest part of Fort
KATY
Bend County, with a network of farm-to-
One of the fastest-growing and most desirable suburbs in the Houston area, Katy is located where Fort Bend County, Harris County and Waller County converge. The Katy Freeway (I-10 West), the Grand Parkway and the Westpark Tollway link Katy to the nearby Energy Corridor and all of Houston. From historic homes and shops in Old Town Katy, to new homes
market roads connecting them to I-10 West and nearby communities including Katy. Fulshear was incorporated in 1977 and remains a largely rural area, though it is now home to some of the region’s fastest-growing master-planned
communities,
including
Johnson Development’s Cross Creek Ranch. Approximately 9,000 people call Fulshear
information, visit www.verandatexas.com
CITIES THE CITY OF MEADOWS PLACE Only one square mile in size, the City of Meadows Place is perfectly situated between Sugar Land, Stafford and Houston. U. S. Highway 59 is the main artery and connects with Dairy Ashford, Kirkwood, Airport Boulevard and other major thoroughfares, making it easy to reach The Galleria, Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center and other destinations. Incorporated in
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
27
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
quickly
planned communities, Katy has it all. The
NEEDVILLE, FAIRCHILD, BEASLEY, KENDLETON, AND THOMPSONS
actual City of Katy has a population of
The rural towns of Needville, Fairchild,
16,000 new residents who have made
about 15,000, but the overall Katy area
Beasley, Kendleton and Thompsons are located
Rosenberg home since 2000 come from
is home to approximately 180,000 people
in the southern portion of Fort Bend County.
all walks of life but are all seeking the
and growing fast. Katy receives a steady
Many of the homes in and around these small
same quality of life components: afford-
stream of accolades from national publi-
towns are situated on acreage or outside of
cations and groups for its high quality
able,
traditional neighborhoods. A network of
of life, its highly regarded schools and
shopping and dining options and a busi-
creeks and several small lakes are scattered
its educated and affluent population.
ness friendly environment in which to
through this area, creating recreational oppor-
Some of the biggest retail and entertain-
tunities for those who enjoy water sports.
start, expand or relocate a business.
and upscale restaurants in some of the nation’s largest and most popular master-
ment complexes in the Houston region are located in the Katy area, including
approaching
40,000,
Rosen-
berg is one of Houston’s hottest and most desirable suburbs. The more than
high-quality
housing,
terrific
The cultural balance between Brazos
RICHMOND
Town Center and the Historic Down-
Richmond was founded in 1837 along a bend in the Brazos River by members of the “Old Three Hundred,” the first settlers to receive land grants in Stephen F. Austin’s original colony. The seat of Fort Bend County, Richmond is infused with history, from the George Park Historical Ranch to a thriving downtown filled with historic buildings and significant landmarks.
town
Today, more than 14,000 citizens reside in Richmond, enjoying a high quality of life less than an hour from downtown Houston and other major destinations via the Westpark Tollway, Grand Parkway, U.S. 59 South and other major thoroughfares.
first and only state-designated Cultural
Richmond is home to some of the most successful and established master-planned communities in the Houston region, including Pecan Grove Plantation, opened in 1977. Newer and still-active communities include Long Meadow Farms and Sweetgrass – the latter designed for residents ages 55 and up.
But it’s certainly not all about history in
an array of high-tech courses, including
town Houston, the Texas Medical Center
Richmond also has four public parks for community activities, including popular George Park. The city is served by the highly regarded Fort Bend and Lamar school districts. The area also offers outstanding parochial and private schools, with higher education offered by Wharton County Junior College and Texas State Technical College.
and other destinations by U.S. 59 South and
www.richmondtx.gov
ists. Seabourne Creek Sports Complex
Katy Mills Mall, home to more than 200 premium outlet stores, and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, offering dozens of shops, restaurants, salons and cafes in a pedestrian friendly Main Street atmosphere. The University of Houston and Houston Community College both have campuses in Katy. www.cityofkaty.com
MISSOURI CITY Home to large and popular master-planned communities including Riverstone and Sienna Plantation, Missouri City has a rich history that dates back to 1853, when Texas first railroad began operating and two real estate investors purchased four square miles of land directly on its route. They advertised their new development as a “land of genial sunshine and eternal summer” in newspapers in St. Louis, hoping that its name of Missouri City would attract new residents. Fast-forward to recent times, and Missouri City has earned kudos from CNN/Money Magazine and USA Today as one of “America’s best places to live” and as one of “Texas safest cities.” Quail Valley was the first master-planned community in Missouri City and also one of the first in the Houston region, with its well-manicured appearance and quality of life maintained today by the Quail Valley Fund. Missouri City is linked to Down-
respectively
offers
shop, dine or even live in a cutting edge, mixed-use development or to step back into time with historic buildings, an authentic soda fountain, the renowned Rosenberg Railroad Museum and the world’s only Black Cowboy Museum. The Historic Downtown District is the Arts District in Fort Bend County. It is also a designated Main Street Program, which conducts annual arts festivals each spring and fall and Rosenberg Christmas Nights each December.
Rosenberg. The future is brighter than ever. Lamar Consolidated Independent School District is one of the fastest-growing districts in the state, adding new campuses almost every school year. Texas State Technical College opened its Rosenberg campus in 2016 and offers Cyber Security and Advanced Robotics. For nature lovers, Seabourne Creek Nature Park offers miles of walking, running and biking trails, fishing at Seabourne Lake
and
a
natural
wetlands
pond
maintained by the Texas Mater Naturalboasts
a growing network of efficient toll roads.
District
residents and visitors the opportunity to
state-of-the-art
Little
League
Schools are part of the highly regarded Fort
ROSENBERG
Bend Independent School District. www.
With more than 4,500 new home starts
by adding two new Babe Ruth fields.
missouricitytx.gov
since 2013 and an in-city population
www.rosenbergtx.gov.
28
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
fields and is in the process of expanding
– ISSUE 2
STAFFORD
newer communities including Telfair and
with children, and now the University of
Situated in Fort Bend County along U.S. Highway 59 South and U.S. Highway 90-A, Stafford has been described as “Shangri-La for property owners” by the Wall Street Journal because it has no property taxes for homeowners. A microcosm of Fort Bend’s overall diversity, Stafford boasts a comfortable racial and cultural diversity. It is the only city in Texas to operate its own school district, the Stafford Municipal School District, and only children living in the city are zoned to the district’s schools. For adult education and other certifications and degrees, the Houston Community College Applied Technology Center and the Houston Community College Stafford Campus are excellent choices. Residents enjoy 35 acres of green space and six city parks. Stafford also has an active civic life with regular Town Hall meetings, a spring clean-up day and holiday events.
Imperial Sugar Land. The 32-acre Sugar
Houston at Sugar Land is a full branch of
Land Town Square development created
the Tier 1 flagship campus. Sugar Land
a new downtown and sense of place for
continually improves its quality of life
Sugar Land, and has become an extremely
with ongoing development of new attrac-
popular place for residents to shop, dine
tions including Constellation Field, home
and enjoy events and attractions. Fort
of the Sugar Land Skeeters minor league
Bend ISD and Lamar Consolidated ISD
baseball team, and new parks and cultural
have been a major draw for families
venues. www.sugarlandtx.gov
www.cityofstafford.com
SUGAR LAND Founded as a sugar plantation in the mid 1800s and incorporated in 1959, Sugar Land is located in Fort Bend County, 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston. Sugar Land is a full-service municipality providing police and fire protection, a regional airport, parks and recreation, public works and other services. More than 70 percent of Sugar Land’s land is devoted to residential use – hardly a surprise since Sugar Land is home to some of the nation’s biggest and most successful master-planned communities. Sugar Land receives a steady stream of accolades for its quality of life and appeal as a hometown,
regularly
landing
on
national
reports such as CNN/Money’s “Best Places to Live” list. Sugar Land has also accumulated numerous prestigious state and local awards for clean air, a tree and forestry program, and their regional airport. One of the earliest large-scale developments in Sugar Land and the Houston region was First Colony, a 10,000-acre community that set new high standards for quality development. Still immaculately maintained, First Colony has been joined by
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
29
in this section
Photo courtesy of Cross Creek Ranch
temporary lodging rent or buy choosing a realtor mortgage options
30
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
The
HOME FRONT In Fort Bend, almost every housing budget can be accommodated. Single-family home buyers can choose eco-friendly designs, new homes in master-planned neighborhoods, luxury residences in gated communities or resale homes in established districts.
The rapid growth of Fort Bend County
condominiums, townhouses and lofts avail-
number of extended-stay hotels in the area.
means newcomers can find everything they
able for lease or sale. Begin your search for
When staying in a hotel for 30 days or
need for a smooth move – from abundant
the right home at the Real Estate section of
longer, Texas law allows for an exemption of
temporary and permanent housing choices,
www.houstonnewcomerguides.com
the 6% state hotel tax; see the hotel manage-
to skilled realtors and custom builders who
visiting www.har.com.
or
by
are eager to help.
ment for information on how to apply for this exemption.
TEMPORARY LODGING Houston is a city of options; you can live
Sometimes, newcomers need temporary
Consider the location and style of accom-
close to your work, surrounded by nature, in
housing while they continue their home
modation that would best suit you during
a vibrant community, near exciting amenities,
search, or while they wait for their new
temporary housing. Is proximity to work the
or any combination of these. In addition to
home to be built or renovated. Like most big
top consideration during this hectic period?
choice, you’ll find bargains and with today’s
cities, Houston has many options for tempo-
Or it might be most important to stay near
low interest rates, now might be a good time
rary housing. This is especially true for Fort
an airport if you’ll be doing a lot of traveling
to buy a house in Fort Bend, where almost
Bend County, which is highly experienced
during the transition. Would you be most
every housing budget can be accommo-
at welcoming newcomers as one of the fast-
comfortable in a hotel or apartment, or would
dated. Single-family home buyers can choose
est-growing counties in Texas and the nation.
you prefer a single-family home or townhome?
planned neighborhoods, luxury residences in
Many multifamily complexes have corpo-
Good
gated communities or resale homes in estab-
rate programs with fully furnished units
housing include your company’s human
lished districts. You may want to consider
and short-term leases available. Hotels
resources department, your Realtor and/or
leasing as well, and there are a range of
are another option, including the growing
builder, and the Internet.
eco-friendly designs, new homes in mastersources
for
locating
temporary
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
31
FORT BEND COUNTY HOME FRONT
Used homes may also have a track record of appreciation over the years, although Realtor.com cautions that past performance does not guarantee future market appeal.
CUSTOM HOME BUILDING One of the great things about Fort Bend is the diversity of communities and homesites to choose from for building the new custom home of your dreams. The choices are almost endless. You can find a waterfront or golf course homesite in a large master-planned community or small enclave neighborhood. Many custom home communities have gated entrances and private streets, and some are associated with country clubs. There are also
Photo Courtesy of Cross Creek Ranch
communities where you can find oversized and acreage homesites.
Bottom line: Fort Bend County newcomers
It may also be better to buy if you want to
will find plenty of temporary housing
build equity and qualify for homeowner tax
options throughout the area – from extend-
breaks and credits; if you have an adequate
ed-stay hotels and corporate lodging, to
cash reserve to withstand loss of employment
single-family homes and condos for rent.
or another financial setback; and if you plan on staying in your home at least four years.
RENT OR BUY? There can be advantages to both renting and buying a new home, depending on one’s immediate priorities and long-term goals. According to Freddie Mac, renting can make more sense if you have a career or lifestyle that requires you to move frequently; if you prefer a set monthly budget and cannot afford unforeseen home-maintenance expenses and if you don’t have the time or desire for home maintenance. More reasons to rent: if you enjoy having amenities such as a pool, gym, concierge and tennis courts; if you plan on downsizing
Also in Fort Bend, you’ll find a wide selection of homebuilders and Realtors who are extremely knowledgeable and experienced in building custom homes in the region. The benefits of building a custom home are getting exactly what you want – from
NEW HOME VS. EXISTING HOME
the location of the lot, to the design of the
Advantages of buying a new home include “new” everything – from carpets to appliances. Energy efficiency is another big consideration. New homes can include the latest high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, along with advanced insulation and window products that weren’t available 10 or 20 years ago.
exterior style and interior floor plan. Many buyers have extended multigenerational families or adult children living at home, and garage apartments and ground floor “casitas” (small houses) are popular options for accommodating these family members. Inside, too, a custom home allows you to customize every aspect of every room – from
A new home will require less maintenance in the short term, and new homes are wired and capable of accommodating the latest technologies.
countertops and flooring, to paint colors and lighting and plumbing fixtures. And if you want to create a special place to incorporate an architectural element that’s a family treasure or recent discovery, that’s very easy to do when custom building.
your living space or retiring soon; and if you
There are also advantages to buying an
are experiencing a financial setback and/or
existing home, especially in Fort Bend
rebuilding your credit.
County, home to well-tended neighbor-
CHOOSING A REALTOR
hoods that have been established for
Choosing the right Realtor in a vast area
Freddie Mac says buying may be best if you
decades, along with homes that are just a
such as Fort Bend County – which covers
have reliable income, good credit and docu-
few years old. According to Realtor.com,
everything from Katy to Sugar Land plus
mentation for your assets; if you can afford
other advantages may include price, estab-
a growing number of fast-growing rural
at least a 5% down payment and closing
lished landscaping, “extra” features such as
communities – can make a big difference,
costs; and if you are financially able to take
window coverings that may not be included
because a good Realtor can help you navi-
on home maintenance and improvements.
in new homes, and traditional floor plans.
gate a fast-changing market landscape. A
32
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
knowledgeable Realtor can lead you to
In addition, the lending climate may be
home; a ratio of less than 1.0 suggests
new opportunities in communities that
easier for first-time buyers. Fannie Mae
that the family cannot afford the house.
are brand-new or not quite on the market,
and Freddie Mac, the two federally char-
Houston’s THAI for the fourth quarter of
and can also help you find final chances in
tered
2016 was 1.92.
communities that are fast building out.
relaxed lending guidelines that were tight-
mortgage
corporations,
recently
ened after the national housing in 2008.
MORTGAGE OPTIONS
To find the right Realtor, Bankrate.com
Now, some buyers can get a mortgage
Several different types of mortgages are
recommends talking with recent clients;
with only a 3 percent down payment and a
common today. A standard 30-year fixed
checking with the state real estate board to
minimum FICO credit score of 620. Home-
rate mortgage is the most common way to
confirm the Realtor’s licensing and check
buyer assistance programs are also offered
finance a home; 15-year fixed rate mort-
for disciplinary action and complaints; and
by various government agencies.
researching how long the Realtor has been
gages are another option.
groups, including teachers, police officers
in business. Look at their current listings to
and firefighters, may also qualify for special
see if they have enough to indicate a healthy
assistance programs.
Some
agree that the tradeoff of a slightly lower
looking at a Realtor’s credentials – those
HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?
initials after their name that indicate addi-
Determining an affordable purchase price
tional training. ABR, for example, stands for
for a home is the essential first step to home
Accredited Buyer’s Representative.
ownership. Experts recommend spending
monthly payment for much more interest
about 28 percent of the household budget on
READY TO BUY YOUR HOME? WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
housing, and a recent Rice University study
People are buying houses in Houston; in
spend about 30 percent of their incomes on
fact, the Houston Association of Realtors
housing, so the city overall is right in line with
recently reported that home sales were up
that advice, albeit slightly on the high side.
by 3.5% for single-family homes from the same time last year. And the median home price increased to $229,900 (according to HAR.com) because of a strong showing of luxury home sales. However, Houston still ranks as one of the most affordable big cities in the U.S. for homeownership, and is a place where homes tend to retain their value because of new buyers entering the market. “In all, Houston’s economic diversity and health will continue to protect and preserve
some parts of the country where home prices are rising fast, but many experts
business, but not so many that you’d just be a number. Bankrate.com also recommends
The 40-year
mortgage has become more popular in
found that Houston area residents typically
Experts also suggest that household expenses not exceed 43 percent of personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insurance, credit card balances, utilities, food and health care as well as any payments on outstanding loans and leases are expenses, while household income includes salary and other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of townhomes, condos and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be considered in the overall expenses.
home values over the long haul, and it will
paid over the life of the loan does not make economic sense. For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the mortgage, payment, the interest rate and the term of the loan are fixed and fully self-amortizing, which means at the end of the term, the principal has been repaid.
Rev. Marty Vershel, Pastor • Traditional and Contemporary Worship • Sunday School for All Ages • Service and Ministry by: Youth, Children, Women, Men, Seniors
• Choirs/Music
continue to be a great place to live, work
Developed by the Real Estate Center
• Day School
and raise a family,” says Houston real estate
at Texas A&M University, the Texas
expert and blogger Toni Nelson.
Housing
• Mission and Community Outreach Opportunities
Affordability
Index
(THAI)
refers to the ability of a median-income Fort Bend County offers a great deal of
family
value within the greater Houston region.
house in an area, reflecting the capacity
Highly regarded schools, vast parks and
of that family to qualify for a mortgage,
a thriving economy add further value
using standard financing terms. A THAI
to home choices that range from town-
of 1.00 indicates that the median house-
homes to estate homes, both newly built
hold income is just enough to qualify
and existing.
for a loan to purchase the median-priced
to
purchase
a
median-priced
3900 Lexington Boulevard at Murphy Road
281-499-3502 www.fumcmc.org HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
33
FORT BEND COUNTY HOME FRONT
loan application and sometimes a fee. Pre-qualification, on the other hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a prospective buyer might qualify for.
TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. For more information, visit www.irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
BANKS Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competitive rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services, different accounts, minimum balance requireThe purchase price less the down payment
(PMI), although it is possible to take out a
is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing
secondary loan to avoid PMI.
the principal by the number of payments in
policy, direct deposit and other options. Contact the Texas Department of Banking toll
a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding
INTEREST RATES
the interest determines the monthly house
Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary
payment. Escrow money for taxes and insur-
from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year
ance is added to the payments according to
fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different
the terms of the lender, and the amounts are
from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate
recalculated annually.
mortgages reset according to the terms of the lender. Interest rates are expected to
The Alternative Mortgage Instrument
ments, ATM charges, availability of funds
continue to remain near historic lows.
(AMI) is a loan in which at least one of
free 877-276-5554 or visit www.dob.texas.gov.
CREDIT UNIONS Credit unions are a good source for mortgage loans because they may offer lower or competitive rates. Historically, credit unions have been employer-based financial institutions but today it is common for credit unions to be community-based,
the four components varies. The most
CLOSING COSTS
common AMI is the Adjustable Rate
Typically, between 2 to 5 percent of the
Mortgage with a variable interest rate.
purchase price of a home, closing costs include
Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins
tution. Members are insured for up to
related fees such as costs for running credit
low and periodically adjusts either up or
$250,000 per account by the National
reports, loan origination, appraisal, survey, title
down within limits based on a pre-spec-
Credit Union Administration.
insurance, and discount points paid to lower
ified index.
the interest rate. Closing costs are usually paid
More information about credit unions is
by the buyer at the time of closing.
available from the Texas Credit Union
The initial low rate, and
therefore, the lower monthly payment, enables the buyer to meet the income and
meaning that anyone can use a credit union as their primary financial insti-
League (www.tcul.org) and the Credit Union
debt-ratio requirement.
PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION
National Association (www.cuna.org).
DOWN PAYMENT
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage
HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE
The down payment is the cash committed
is beneficial because it gives sellers a
Homeowner’s insurance is required by mort-
toward the purchase of a home. For most
level of assurance that the prospective
gage lenders, and is essential even if a home is
loans, a down payment of 20 percent of
buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big
paid for. Buyers are typically asked to pay one
the purchase price is required to avoid
plus in a competitive market. Pre-ap-
year of insurance at closing, with premiums
paying
proval requires the completion of a
included in monthly mortgage payments.
34
Private
Mortgage
Insurance
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
Selecting an insurance company and determining coverage is the responsibility of the buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract to purchase a house is accepted by the seller. The Texas Board of Insurance (www.tdi.state.tx.gov) is a valuable source of information. In some fast-transitioning West Houston neighborhoods, the value of the lot may represent a much larger-than-average share of overall property value, and it may be a good idea to talk with several insurance companies – especially those who specialize in the area – to make sure you are getting ample coverage and the best rate. Many companies offer discounts when home insurance is combined with auto coverage, life insurance, health insurance and other types of insurance that may be required. In the Houston and surrounding areas, flood insurance is required or recommended by mortgage companies in some neighborhoods. Check with your builder, realtor or lender to determine the status of your property.
CREDIT REPORTS Lenders need your credit report, which is an analysis of your credit history over the last seven-to-ten years. Called the FICO score, it includes your employment history, your
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS A variety of programs are designed to help first-time buyers, including FHA loans with a 3 percent down payment as previously discussed. The City of Houston, Harris County and other governmental entities also offer homebuyer assistance programs that can provide down
payment
assistance
and
special
payment activity, the amount you owe, the amount of available credit you’re using, the length of the history, any new credit and other factors. You will be scored anywhere between 301 and 850, with anything over 740 considered an excellent score. Higher scores lead to better loans and lower rates. There are three credit reporting agencies and you may contact them to obtain your credit history.
financing for buyers who meet certain household income and purchase price criteria. Helpful websites include www.houstontx.gov/housing and www.hrc.hctx.net. Other programs include Southeast Texas Housing Finance (www.sethfc.com) and the Harris County Downpayment Assistance Program (harriscountytx.gov/csd). Information is also available from the Texas Department of Housing & Community Affairs (www.tdhca.state.tx.us ). Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders are also good sources of information about
FREE CREDIT REPORTS You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies once every 12 months. You can request all three reports at once, or space them out throughout the year.
TRANSUNION® 1-877-322-8228 www.transunion.com
EQUIFAX® 1-800-685-1111 www.equifax.com
EXPERIAN® 1-888-397-3742 www. Experian.com
available homebuyer assistance programs.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
35
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF A MOVE TO
FORT BEND COUNTY 3-HOUR PROPERTY TOUR
Making a move from one city to another can be daunting. Whether your move was brought on by the latest promotion, a burgeoning romance, or simply a fresh start to a new adventure, there is a lot to consider and thoughtful planning with help from an expert can make the entire process flow smoothly. Fort Bend is loved by its residents, not only for its “down home” southern hospitality, but also the diverse cultures and activities available. With so many options, making a decision of where to move can be difficult. Getting to know the area in advance of a move goes a long way to ease the stress and uncertainty of a new environment. Here are some key factors to consider and compare before your move:
36
NEIGHBORHOODS Fort Bend is home to some of the finest neighborhoods in the state with a plentiful blend of established and new development subdivisions. Master-planned subdivisions are architecturally controlled to have cohesive aesthetics between commercial and residential properties. They are designed to accommodate your entire life in a single area with parks, lakes, open areas, recreation, dining, shopping and schools. They typically have varying price ranges within the master plan, so a homeowner can start in a first-time buyer segment, move-up to 2nd tier housing later and ultimately purchase high-end luxury all within the same master-planned
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
community. Some other popular types of neighborhoods in Fort Bend include acreage communities, gated communities and active adult living communities.
SCHOOLS Fort Bend County is home to a plethora of nationally ranked and state acclaimed schools
within
four
different
school
“
Fort Bend is loved by its residents not only for its “down home” southern hospitality, but also the diverse cultures and activities available.
”
districts (Fort Bend ISD, Lamar ISD,
Bend is home to an ever-growing epicenter
market data, demographics, school infor-
Needville ISD and Stafford MSD). In
of activity and events. Moving can be espe-
mation and beautiful homes, he can tell you
addition, there are a number of presti-
cially intimidating for children, so having a
where to get the best hair cut or take Fido if
gious private schools from early education
chance to explore and show them how they
he gets sick. You want an area specialist.
through high school. Texas has no state
can still participate in their favorite activities
income tax so property taxes are used as a
provides security and reassurance.
primary source of funding for schools.
The real estate professionals at Keller Williams
Southwest
a
special reloca-
The best way to navigate all of the options
tour includes an overview of the area
significantly reduces stress caused by a move.
available to you as you choose your new
including
visiting
Whether you love biking, golfing, running,
home is working with a knowledgeable
different
communities.
or gardening, locating others who share
expert in the area. Spend an afternoon with
281-265-0000 to schedule your free, no
your passion can quickly cause a new place
someone who takes the time to ask in-depth
obligation home tour for an afternoon.
to feel like home. From clubs and organiza-
questions, to find out what is important
Let us show you the best of what Fort
tions to hobby groups within HOAs, Fort
to you. Not only should he or she provide
Bend has to offer.
Finding a home that makes it easy to engage in the activities and hobbies you enjoy
especially
for
PERSONALIZED 3-HOUR HOME TOUR
LIFESTYLE
tour”
offer
“3-hour
tion buyers. This free, no obligation several
homes
Simply
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
in call
37
in this section public schools private schools higher education Photo courtesy of Fort Bend Christian Academy FBCA has earned three TAPPS 5A State Championships in a row and seven in the past 11 years
38
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
EDUCATION IN FORT BEND COUNTY Home to some of the largest and most highly rated public school districts in Texas and the U.S., Fort Bend County offers its residents an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities.
Highly regarded public schools are one of
district in the county, Fort Bend ISD is an
Fort Bend ISD, its campuses and its students
the most important ingredients in Fort Bend
outstanding K-12 public education system.
are routinely recognized for exemplary
County’s winning quality of life recipe.
achievements by organizations such as
From the diverse Fort Bend ISD, to smaller
The District is Texas’ seventh largest with
The National Merit Scholars Program, the
districts that maintain their rural char-
approximately 76,000 students and one of
National Association of Music Merchants,
acter, parents will find top-notch education
the most diverse in the nation. Working and
Children at Risk, The Washington Post’s
throughout the county. When it comes to
learning cohesively alongside families who
Top High Schools in the national rankings,
higher education and workforce training,
speak more than 90 languages and dialects,
Fort Bend also excels. In the following
U.S. News & World Report’s Best High
the schools work together with students,
pages, we take a brief look at some of Fort
Schools in the nation and the United States
their families and the community to address
Bend’s major school districts and educa-
Presidential Scholars Program.
each student’s unique needs.
tional institutions.
Fort Bend ISD was named the 2018 H-E-B FBISD currently has 80 campuses: 11 high
Excellence in Education Award Winner in
schools, 15 middle schools, 50 elemen-
the Large School District category, receiving
tary campuses and three unique secondary
a $100,000 grand prize with the honor. At
campuses to address the academic and voca-
the 2017 ceremony, Fort Bend ISD’s Board
tional interests of students. With more than
of Trustees, Travis High School Principal
11,000 full-time employees and substitutes,
Julie Diaz and Crockett Middle School
the District is the largest employer in Fort
Teacher Richard Embrick received 2017
Bend County.
H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards.
attract families to the area. Fort Bend
Fort Bend ISD is committed to its mission
For details about these honors and more,
County is one of the fastest growing coun-
to inspire and equip all students to pursue
visit the Headlines and Features section
ties in the nation. As the largest school
futures beyond what they can imagine.
on the home page of the District’s website
PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS Fort Bend Independent School District www.fortbendisd.com • 281-634-1000 The quality of education in Fort Bend County has long been a driving force to
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
39
F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N
or sign up to receive the weekly newsletter, ExPress. To receive news tailored to a specific campus and other campuses in the area, sign up to receive the monthly In the Zone newsletter. In Fort Bend ISD we say “Our District” because it takes everyone in Fort Bend ISD- including administrators, staff, teachers, parents, students, and the community members-working together as a collaborative community to inspire and equip all students to pursue futures beyond what they can imagine. Katy Independent School District www.katyisd.org • 281-396-6000
Photo courtesy of Fort Bend Christian Academy; Fine Arts Festival
Serving parts of Fort Bend County, this flourishing school district encompasses 181
Katy. More than 77,900 students attend
Some of the newest and largest master-
square miles, with its eastern boundary
68 campuses, including 8 four-year high
planned communities in the area are
stretching to the Energy Corridor, about 16
schools. Given the highest possible rating
located in LCISD, with developers (and
miles west of Downtown Houston. District
by the Texas Education Agency, Katy ISD
new residents) attracted by the district’s high
boundaries also extend along the Katy
offers an outstanding instructional program
passage rate on standardized tests, its highly
Freeway to a few miles west of the City of
with facilities, equipment and materials
educated population (35% have bachelor’s
that are among the best in the state. Katy
degrees) and high median income level.
Is academic GREATNESS in your child’s future?
ISD’s Seven Lakes High School is consistently included on Newsweek’s annual list of “America’s Top 500 Public High Schools.” Katy ISD schools also earn some of the highest ratings in Texas from GreatSchools. org and Children At Risk, two nonprofit groups that rank schools based on test scores, the number of students taking advanced classes, graduation rates and other metrics. Most recently, it was named the best
Call us to schedule your tour today! 281.342.3161
school district in the Houston-Metro area by Niche, and was selected for District Administration’s District of Distinction Award.
www.ces-richmond.org 1201 Austin Richmond, TX 77469
Calvary Episcopal Preparatory academically challenges students from Pre-K through 12th grade — preparing them to excel and teaching them to lead. In a caring Christian environment, our students learn Reverence for God, Respect for others and Responsibility for themselves. Discover Calvary Episcopal Preparatory Call for a tour today 281-342-3161 – spaces limited! CES-richmond.org
BRING THIS AD FOR $100 OFF REGISTRATION!
Lamar Consolidated Independent School District
Lamar
Consolidated
its small-town values, including campuses with smaller enrollments, allowing students to have more opportunities to participate in leadership roles and extracurricular activities. While valuing its roots, LCISD strives to make sure its students and staff have access to the latest technology. Every year, a new group of teachers attends LCISD’s INTERACT Academy, where they learn about the latest hardware and software and – most importantly – how to use it keep the tech-savvy students engaged in the classroom. Overall, LCISD is a TEA Recognized
www.lcisd.org • 832-223-0000 The
While welcoming growth, LCISD has kept
District, with 75 percent of its schools Independent
School District is another major player in the educational lineup for Fort Bend County. Covering more than 384 square
ranked either Exemplary (11 schools) or Recognized (13 schools). Needville Independent School District www.needvilleisd.com
miles, LCISD is one of the area’s largest districts geographically, with an enrollment
With its motto of “Learn Today, Fly
of about 30,000 student.
Forever,” Needville ISD prides itself on CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 >
40
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
FORT BEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY OFFERS BALANCE TO FAMILIES Relocating to a city as large as Houston can be overwhelming, but getting your family plugged into the r ight school community can ease the transition and make a new place feel like home. Often, the right school choice is determined by the school’s ability to balance academics, extracurricular opportunities and spiritual values. Fort Bend Christian Academy, a private school serving grades pre-k through 12, embodies that balance.
WE TRUST GOD Christian values are a driving force in parents’ decision to enroll their children in FBCA. FBCA proclaims that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God. All subjects are presented from a biblical perspective, with the Scripture as the measuring rod of all truth. Students in every grade level attend weekly chapel and middle school and upper school students take theology courses as part of their graduation requirements.
WE PURSUE WISDOM A co l l e g e - p re p a ra to r y c u r r i c u l u m
is the othe r p r i ma r y reason pa rents deci de FBCA i s the r i g ht schoo l fo r their family. Students at FBCA receive an academically challenging course of study with a curriculum designed to provide a superior spiritual and intellectual environment. Fifty different Honors and Advanced Placement classes are offered at the upper school level, and middle school students with accelerated educational development may also participate in an honors curriculum.
post-graduate degrees in law, medicine, engineering and more.
WE LEAD WITH LOVE Finally, the community aspect of FBCA
WE SHAPE SOCIETY
truly makes it feel like home. Various
F B CA fe at u res e n r i ch m e nt c l a s s es, competitive athletics, before and after school programs, nationally-recognized c l u b s a n d exce pt i o n a l co m m u n i t y service and philanthropic involvement. Students hold multiple state championships in athletics and fine arts. The school has produced a number of National Merit Scholars, and 100% of graduates enroll in college or enlist in the military, w i t h m o s t s t u d e nt s at te n d i n g t h e i r first-choice university. Alumni serve in various career fields, and many obtain
events th roughout the yea r provide oppor tunities for the whole family to come together. There are multiple ways for parents to get involved such as Parent Teacher Fellowship, Men’s Bible Study and Moms in Prayer.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BALANCED EDUCATION AT FORT BEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, VISIT WWW.FORTBENDCHRISTIAN.ORG.
happens here Challenging college-preparatory academics for grades PreK-12, award-winning competitive sports, state championship visual and performing arts, local, national and global service. See for yourself all the things that make FBCA extraordinary.
#TogetherWeSoar ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
281-263-9105 | fortbendchristian.org/admissions 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478
FORT BEND C HO OU U SNTTOY NE D ED UU CC AA T ITOI O NN
Photo courtesy of Calvary Episcopal Preparatory
its exemplary standards, as well as its rich history of academic and co-curricular success. Located entirely in Fort Bend County, NISD has an enrollment of just over 3,252 students at its four campuses, including Needville Elementary, Needville Middle, Needville Junior High and Needville High. The district’s core values include creating a learning organization focused on excellence; providing each student with engaging,
challenging
and
professional skills necessary to succeed in today’s high-demand occupational environment. Students have the opportunity to utilize their academic skills in the following career fields: Law/Criminal Justice, Business Management, Business Administration and Marketing, Graphic Arts, Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Health Sciences, Information Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, Culinary Arts, Early Childhood Education, Automotive Technology, and Manufacturing. All of the Academy programs are technically based, rigorous, relevant, and aligned with business and industry standards for the 21st Century workforce. Many of the Academy programs offer articulation and/or dual credit with neighboring postsecondary community colleges allowing students to earn college credit while fulfilling high school graduation requirements. Students in grades K-12 can participate in Robotics and students in grades 3-12 can participate in UIL Academics. Students in grades 6th-8th can learn martial arts through the Kickstart program and secondary students can compete in football, baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, track, power-lifting, soccer, swimming, and cross-country. The Stafford Municipal School District is “The Best Little School District in Texas”.
realize the opportunities that they have as 21st century learners. Stafford Municipal School District www.staffordmsd.org The Stafford Municipal School District maintains its small-school district environment while addressing educational needs of the 21st century. With an enrollment of more than 3,200 students, this mid-sized district is home to five campuses located on a tree-lined, 77-acre complex. SMSD facilities are designed to allow all of the district’s students to attend the same elementary and secondary schools without zoning changes. The Stafford High School College and Career Center houses 12 academy programs designed to prepare students with the technical and
Small classrooms and individualized attention assure that students enjoy a safe and nurturing environment, regardless of the grade. Christian Character classes, Bible instruction and three chapel services weekly foster an emotionally safe environment. This also translates into classrooms that are free from other distractions such as bullying. Calvary is unique in that students learn to “live together” regardless of age, as the school enters PK-4 year olds and graduates students in grade 12. Students freely interact, with the older students mentoring the younger in a diverse student body that is accepting of all faiths and nationalities. (Calvary is an international school and issues the F-1 visa.) The lower and middle grades accelerate the curriculum so that students are instructed
meaningful
work; and empowering each student to
Council, National Honor Society, and visual and performing arts that encompass a Thespian Troupe, a National Arts Honor Society, and competitive band. Calvary consistently wins district competition against other private schools in Private School Interscholastic Association (PSIA) for lower and middle school. Upper school students compete in Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS), sending many students to state each year.
a grade above the national average. This
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Calvary Episcopal Preparatory www.ces-richmond.org • 281-342-3161 While outstanding academics are a trademark for Calvary’s reputation of excellence since 1965, its pride as Fort Bend County’s premiere Christian school is how students and faculty treat each other and grow in their understanding of God’s expectations for them. The Calvary 3 R’s: Reverence for God, Respect for others, and Responsibility for self are the cornerstone for every aspect of the child’s educational journey. In addition to a rigorous and accelerated academic environment, the Calvary experience includes service learning, leadership opportunities, and enrichment programs for student creativity and expression. These programs include a successful athletic department, Student
results in median achievement test scores that range from 2 to 4 grades above. High school students are encouraged to take Advanced Placement courses, Dual Credit courses and graduate with a distinguished diploma. Students meet regularly with a career and college counselor who helps the student determine college and career decisions as well as assist in developing college portfolios and scholarship applications. CEP students consistently graduate with multiple scholarship offers; last year’s top graduate was offered over $300,000 in scholarships. Calvary Episcopal Preparatory incorporates Christian character education, Bible class, Spanish, and library lessons into the learners’ experience. To schedule a tour of the campus, call 281-342-3161 and bring this ad for $100 off the registration fee. CONTINUED ON PAGE 44 >
42
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF HOUSTON YOU WANT THE BEST FOR YOUR CHILD. SO DO WE.
The British International School of Houston provides children ages 2 to 18 with personalized learning that is based in each student’s unique experiences, capabilities and interests. Our globally respected curriculum produces resilient, confident and lifelong learners who are capable of shaping the world around them. No matter where our students might come from, they leave better prepared with a global passport to their future.
LOCAL ROOTS WITH GLOBAL REACH
While we have strong roots in the Houston community, our school is also part of a Global Campus comprising 56 schools, spanning the globe in 26 countries. This interconnectedness allows students the opportunity to join others around the world and share diverse viewpoints on real-world issues. The Global Campus connects students online, in school and through specialized experiences in other countries.
PERSONALIZED, INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING WORKS
Children who are encouraged to pursue their own interests, will seek out the academic skills necessary to bring their passions to life. Students at the British International School of Houston not only obtain the necessary skills and knowledge, their understanding and retention is exceptional and they’re able to apply the concepts
learned to real-world situations throughout their lives. When teachers serve as co-constructors of the educational experience versus instructors, students’ reasoning ability, independence, creativity, self-confidence and leadership skills have the opportunity to flourish.
PREMIER FACILITIES AND PARTNERSHIPS
Our state-of-the-art 275,000 square foot facility sits on a 34-acre campus and features MIT-inspired maker spaces, state- of-the- ar t science labs and STEAM curriculum, as well as a performance arts curriculum and 550 -seat theatre designed in partnership with The Juilliard School. Students can also develop their athletic abilities on three athletic fields including a FIFA-regulation soccer field, an aquatic centre and two NCAA-regulation size gymnasiums. Conveniently located off IH10 and just minutes from the Grand Parkway, the British International School of Houston is accessible to families residing in all parts of the Houston area by car or our city-wide bus fleet.
SCHEDULE A TOUR AND SEE PERSONALIZED LEARNING FIRST-HAND: CALL 713.290.9025 OR VISIT WWW.BISHOUSTON.ORG
We think beyond traditional educational models to transform learning, offering extraordinary experiences to all our students.
Personalized, project-based learning Holistic development of students Exceptional IB Diploma Programme results
Schedule your personal tour today! 713.290.9025 www.bishouston.org
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Bus Service Available
7/20/18 6:01 PM
F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N
Fellowship Christian Academy
FCA offers small classes with low student
Students at FBCA receive an academically
www.fellowshipchristianacademy.org
to teacher ratios, giving children the chance
challenging course of study with curriculum
281-495-1814
and room to blossom in their own unique
designed to provide a superior spiritual and
way. This also provides an ideal learning
intellectual
environment
receive
Honors and Advanced Placement classes are
provides a place for children to grow and to
personal academic attention that caters to
offered at the upper school level, and middle
learn while surrounded by God’s love.
each individual’s style of learning.
school students with accelerated educational
The early years of a child’s life are the years
“Train up a child in the way he should go,
honors curriculum. Spiritually, academically
that shape their future; therefore, the curric-
and when he is old he will not depart from
and professionally qualified, all teaching staff
ulum is carefully selected and developed to
it.” Proverbs 22:6
are certified educators, many possessing a
Fellowship
Christian
Academy
(FCA)
in
that
students
environment.
Fifty
different
development may also participate in an
enrich the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and social development in each child.
master’s degree or higher.
Fort Bend Christian Academy www.fortbendchristian.org • 281-263-9105
FBCA features small class sizes, uniforms, a hot lunch program, before and after school
Since 1976, FCA has provided a safe and
Fort
loving environment where children are
to glorify God through excellence in
encouraged to develop spiritually as they
college-preparatory Christian education.
grow cognitively, socially and physically.
FBCA is a pre-k through grade 12 school
multiple state championships in athletics
Many of the teachers have over 25 years of
located on a 35-acre campus in the heart
and fine arts.
teaching experience.
of Sugar Land, one of the fastest-growing
Bend
Christian
Academy
exists
programs, enrichment classes, clubs and strong community service involvement. Outside of the classroom, students hold
cities in Texas. As an interdenominational
The school has produced a number of
Age appropriate environments and classes
school, FBCA welcomes a diverse popula-
National Merit Scholars, and 100% of grad-
are offered beginning with infants to chil-
tion of students who attend more than 100
uates enroll in college or enlist in the military,
dren through 9th grade.
area churches.
with most students attending their first-choice
ᰠ䤀渀猀瀀椀爀椀渀最 漀甀爀 猀琀甀搀攀渀琀猀 琀漀 瀀甀爀猀甀攀 昀甀琀甀爀攀猀 戀攀礀漀渀搀 眀栀愀琀 琀栀攀礀 挀愀渀 椀洀愀最椀渀攀℀ᴠ
䄀 䘀漀爀琀 䈀攀渀搀 䤀匀䐀 䜀爀愀搀甀愀琀攀 栀愀猀 愀 爀椀最漀爀漀甀猀 愀挀愀搀攀洀椀挀 昀漀甀渀搀愀琀椀漀渀Ⰰ 猀琀爀漀渀最 挀栀愀爀愀挀琀攀爀 愀渀搀 椀猀⸀⸀⸀ 攀焀甀椀瀀瀀攀搀 眀椀琀栀 猀欀椀氀氀猀 昀漀爀 氀椀昀攀⸀ 愀 猀攀爀瘀愀渀琀 氀攀愀搀攀爀⸀ 愀渀 攀û攀挀琀椀瘀攀 挀漀洀洀甀渀椀挀愀琀漀爀⸀
44
愀 挀爀椀琀椀挀愀氀 琀栀椀渀欀攀爀⸀ 愀 挀漀洀瀀愀猀猀椀漀渀愀琀攀 挀椀琀椀稀攀渀⸀ 愀 挀漀氀氀愀戀漀爀愀琀椀瘀攀 琀攀愀洀 洀攀洀戀攀爀⸀
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
䀀䘀伀刀吀䈀䔀一䐀䤀匀䐀 䀀䘀伀刀吀䈀䔀一䐀䤀匀䐀
䘀伀刀吀䈀䔀一䐀䤀匀䐀⸀䌀伀䴀
university. Alumni serve in various career fields, and many obtain post-graduate degrees in law, medicine, engineering and more. For more information about Fort Bend Christian Academy, contact the Admissions Office at admissions@fortbendchristian.org or call 281-263-9105. Primrose School of First Colony www.primrosefirstcolony.com 281-565-2707
“Children who receive a quality preschool,
Parents choose Primrose School of First
pre-k and kindergarten education develop
Colony because of its proven value in
into well-rounded individuals prepared for
preparing children for success in school and
learning and for life.”
in life.
Nationally recognized assessment
tools and their own research with PrimAt Primrose School of First Colony, “read-
rose parents show that Primrose pre-k and
iness” means more than just learning how to
kindergarten students are advanced in social
add and spell. It means learning how to think
skills and concept knowledge, and there-
critically, use mathematical concepts, share
fore more ready for elementary school than
and show self-control-skills that support a positive transition to elementary school. Primrose
many of their peers.
Schools supports the development of social
Primrose School of First Colony believes
Will My Child be Ready for Elementary School? - Primrose Schools has more than 270 accredited, private preschools nationwide, and provides a balanced approach to school readiness- a well-rounded preparation in basic concepts and acquisition of social skills- that gives children the foundation for a future filled with promise.
and life skills, as well as executive function.
that with the right foundation, anything is
Research shows that executive functioning
possible for your child. To learn more about
skills help children establish positive relation-
the many lifelong benefits of enrolling your
ships and close the achievement gap.
child in the pre-k and kindergarten programs
“School readiness is essential to a child’s success in elementary school and beyond,” said Estela Papadopulos, Franchise Owner of Primrose School of First Colony.
addition to core academic subjects, the
The Primrose Schools Balanced Learning System blends academics, play, and character
at Primrose School of First Colony. Call or visit the website.
development to build a strong foundation
St. Francis de Sales Catholic School
and nurture a lifelong love of learning. In
www.sfdsschool.org • 713-774-4447
curriculum includes enrichment programs in
First and foremost St. Francis de Sales
music, physical activity, art, sign language,
School is a family of caring parents
Spanish, technology and social skills.
and teachers who are together raising
Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy is a private Christian school where your child is more than just a number. We believe that each student is special and unique and most of all, a beloved child of God. Each of our teachers sees their vocation as a true calling, not just a job. They know that every child is a gift from God and that He has entrusted them to provide a faith-based education that promotes spiritual growth and academic excellence. Our teachers integrate the intangibles of faith, morals, ethics and service in the classroom as each student pursues a solid academic foundation that prepares them for today, tomorrow and eternity.
Upcoming Events Everyone in the community is welcome to join us at any of our upcoming events!
November 13: Spanish Immersion Information Session 10am and 6pm November 29: Kendra Scott Gives Back Spirit Night December 4: Coffee Preview 9am – 11am Join us for coffee and a tour! December 4: Spanish Immersion Information Session 10am and 6pm January 16: Coffee Preview 9am – 11am January 25: Westlake Annual Gala February 26: Coffee Preview 9am – 11am
23300 Bellaire Blvd., 23300 Bellaire Blvd. | WestlakePrep.org Westlake is dedicated to providing academic excellence and spiritual growth that equips our students to become courageous leaders as they serve Jesus Christ in our changing world.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
45
F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N
transcripts are respected and recognized by top colleges and universities worldwide. This will facilitate the acceptance of the graduates in these educational organizations in order to complete their higher studies and have a better foundation for a bright future. Pre-kindergarten: Trent’s Pre-K program is multi-dimensional and includes more than one method of teaching. Children’s individual development in learning is built on prior knowledge and experiences. Trent InternationalE School is pacing instructions not only on the Texas standards but also according to international objectives. Elementary level: The lower school curriculum is tailor-made to facilitate the gradual
Photo courtesy of Trent InternationalE School
transition
of
all
Trent
InternationalE
students, from the foundational necessities responsible, faith-filled citizens for the community.
St. Agnes Academy, Strake Jesuit College
of our holistic method to the flourishing
Preparatory
of individual thought and academic explo-
and
Southwest
Memorial
ration. IB (the International Baccalaureate)
Hospital. Their mission is to educate each student in a spirit of faith and academic excellence according to the Roman Catholic principles. As a part of a caring, disciplined community, the school, in partnership with parents, nurtures and challenges each student to develop to his or her fullest potential.
Primary Years Program (PYP) is impleTrent InternationalE School
mented at our elementary grades.
www.trentinternationale.com Middle school level: Middle school courses
281-980-5800
are designed to help students develop Trent InternationalE School is a private
good study habits while encountering and
international school that has been a model
mastering content from various subjects.
of academic excellence for over 23 years.
Curriculum integration is a core part of the
Along with the 2015 Soccer Archdiocesan
Since its founding in 1993, Trent continues
middle school experience. Trent encour-
Championship they hold the 2nd and 3rd
to be a front-runner in innovative teaching
ages students to be active participants in
place awards in the statewide Mobile Auto-
techniques and methods as well as high
their learning and open discussions on
mated Technology Education competition
academic standards laying a foundation for
various topics.
(underwater robotics) held at N.A.S.A.’s
the students to be successful, prepared, and
Neutral Buoyancy Lab. They encourage
confident in the 21st Century. Trent incor-
PK-8th graders to participate in sports
porates a global perspective and value the
programs, clubs, academic/fine arts compe-
distinctiveness of international education,
titions, service projects and faith activities.
which broadens perspectives, enriches lives,
By “Praying, Learning and Living Together”
and stimulates free thinking.
Sixth
Grade
math
covers
pre-algebra
skills. Social Studies is a combination of learning about economics and Geography of the World. Science involves the study of Earth Science and covers such topics as
earthquakes,
volcanoes,
weathering
and deposition, as well as other Earth
they focus on the development of each
Trent offers classes from Pre-K to 12th
student intellectually, physically, emotion-
grade; additional classes in Art, Music,
Science topics. For ELA, students learn
ally, socially, and spiritually. They nurture
Chinese, Spanish, and P.E., as well as a
about literary terms and story elements.
children
wealth
after-school
Grammar and Writing are an integral part
a reflection of the world in which they
activities. Trent InternationalE School is
of this part of the curriculum. Students
live. St. Francis de Sales is accredited by
accredited by very well known, esteemed
work on vocabulary skills through novels,
the TCCED, and is a member of NCEA,
organizations, agencies such as SACS, CIS,
short stories, and a vocabulary book.
NCTM, NCTSS, GHARC and HAIS.
NIPSA, and TPSAC.
Students work a little more independently
St. Francis de Sales School is located at 8100 Roos, Houston, TX 77036 within blocks of
Being an accredited International school,
Students also continue having the options
Trent
to have Spanish and Chinese.
from
diverse
backgrounds
as
of
extra-curricular
or with a partner on their assignments.
46
InternationalE
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
diplomas
– ISSUE 2
and
High school: High school curriculum requires
the Fall of 2017. Basketball –Soccer- Karate-
adults coming together to set up students in
Ping Pong –Dancing- Arts –Guitar –Piano
institutions that are completely focused on
– Yoga Gymnastics – Chess- Chinese – Math
providing a flexible, strong core and advanced
–English Writing – Homework – SAT ESL.
curriculum. Students must be given the ability to follow a directed study track and/or an
Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy
independent study plan. The goal at Trent
www.westlakeprep.org • 281-341-9910
InternationalE is to nurture each students critical thinking to become an integral, individual member of society, never compromising
Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy is a private Christian school dedicated to
academic and personal excellence.
providing faith-based educational programs
Trent InternationalE high school students
itual growth. A college preparatory school
have the opportunity to earn college credit
currently offering PreK3 - 8th grade with
and high school credit through concur-
future plans to add a year a grade through
rent enrollment with Houston Community
12th grade. West lake equips students to
College while still in high school. Students
become courageous leaders while serving
demonstrating college readiness through
Jesus Christ in our changing world.
which focus on academic excellence and spir-
a State of Texas approved college placement test can earn dual credit by taking
Westlake recognizes that your children are
an approved college class offered at a high
your most important possession, and takes
school, HCC campus, or online.
the responsibility you entrust to them seriously. Your child will be challenged and
Trent Internationale School is proud to offer
motivated to excel academically in a loving
dynamic after school activities beginning in
and caring environment. The dedicated
teachers see their vocation as a true calling and integrate the intangibles of faith, morals, ethics and service in the classroom as each student pursues a solid academic foundation. Westlake employs only certified and degreed teachers, and with some holding a Master’s degree. Each class is also equipped with the latest technology to support the curriculum, particularly in the areas of math, science, reading, writing and history/ geography. As a premier private school in the Katy/ Richmond area, Westlake strives to prepare children for “today, tomorrow and eternity.” They are conveniently located southwest of the Grand Parkway and Westpark Tollway intersection. If you are looking for an inspiring environment for your child, call or visit their website for more information.
HIGHER EDUCATION A variety of well-regarded institutions offer higher education in Fort Bend County, and
FACT:
There are valuable lessons involved in learning how to use a microscope. BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:
Including how to share. SEE BALANCED LEARNING IN ACTION. CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY!
Infants – Private Kindergarten and After School
Primrose School of First Colony 4605 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.565.2707 PrimroseFirstColony.com
Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2018 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
47
F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N
residents also have easy access to top-rated colleges and universities throughout the Houston region. The University of Houston, a Tier 1 research university on a par with Texas A&M and the University of Texas, recently designated its growing Sugar Land campus as an official branch of the main campus. This provides new accountability and oversight for campus development, master planning and program development at UH Sugar Land. Other major institutions of higher learning in Fort Bend include the University of Houston System at Cinco Ranch, Houston Community College System, Texas State Technical College and Wharton County Junior College. Houston Community College Missouri City Center 713-718-2915 Stafford Campus 713-718-7800 www.hccs.edu As one of the largest institutions of higher learning in the nation, Houston Community College (HCC) is a recognized leader in awarding academic degrees and workforce certifications. Serving the Fort Bend County and Southwest Houston communities for over 40 years, HCC Southwest College continues to change and grow to support the communities it serves. Academic courses are available for college students choosing to pursue a four-year degree, as well as dual-credit classes and
early college high school programs for high school students. HCC specializes in providing workforce degrees and certificates that can be earned in as few as six months. The college is home to HCC’s Southwest Honors College for academically gifted students, and the VAST Academy for “differently abled” individuals seeking workforce certificates and academic advancement. Students also have access to sports, paid internships, student associations and lifelong learning for seniors. The Greater Houston area is one of the leading manufacturing and health care regions in the United States. To prepare the area workforce, HCC established the Center for Advanced Manufacturing at its Stafford campus. The 57-thousand square foot Stafford Workforce Building is home to the HCC Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence and is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies including 3D Printers, robotic arms, CNC mills and lathes machines, welding machines and more. HCC offers more than 250 degree and certificate programs system wide, including Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Machining Technology, Welding, HVAC and Electrical which are taught at the new Stafford Workforce Building, with programs like Robotics soon to come.
From dual credit for high school students to lifelong learning for seniors, and every phase of your life in between, HCC has the programs, the services and the tools to help our community succeed. For more information on the Fort Bend County programs offered and how to register, contact Libby Atilano at enid. atilano@hccs.edu or 713.718 8407. Wharton County Junior College www.wcjc.edu • 1-800-561-WCJC Wharton County Junior College: Small classes, affordability, personal attention and four campuses make it a great choice Wharton County Junior College (WCJC) offers more than 40 Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees, an Associate of Arts (AA) degree, an Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) degree, dual credit and concurrent enrollment courses, plus certificate, continuing education and workforce development programs.
In addition to manufacturing programs, Stafford offers art and graphic arts courses at the Fine Arts Building, science programs at the Scarcella Building, and a full range of academic and business courses at the Learning Hub Building. The region is expanding, and Missouri City has recently been ranked as one of America’s 50 best cities in which to live. In order to train the workforce of tomorrow in high-demand careers within the Missouri City community, HCC established a large new facility, located at in the heart of Missouri City at 1600 Texas Parkway. The Center nology and Center will as well as
48
information technology classes, a variety of logistics courses, small business and entrepreneurial classes, medical assistant, emergency medical technician (EMT), and prerequisite courses for the more than 20 professional health careers offered at HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences.
for Entrepreneurship, TechHealth at the Missouri City offer core academic courses, business administration and
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
Since WCJC’s founding more than 70 years ago in Wharton, Texas, the college has grown to four campuses serving more than 7,000 credit students. Modern, vibrant campuses in Sugar Land, Richmond and Bay City complement WCJC’s traditional campus in Wharton that provides athletics and fine arts programs plus on-campus housing. WCJC’s Sugar Land campus, housed on the campus of the University of Houston Sugar Land, is composed mostly of students working on the first two years of their four-year degrees. Students can choose from an array of core courses and continue their studies at four-year institutions. In addition to an AA degree with an
emphasis of study in various disciplines, the Sugar Land campus offers the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) and AAS degrees in Computer Simulation & Game Development, Construction Management, Digital Media, Early Childhood, Paralegal Studies, and Law Enforcement. In
2017,
the
college
renovated
and
expanded its Richmond Campus. In 2017, the college renovated and expanded its Richmond Campus to accommodate a new cosmetology program and expansion of the existing process technology programs. At the Richmond campus, students also take college transfer classes, as well as technical courses that train them in fast-
New Horizons - Your Partner in Training
flexible training approach gives the ability
growing career fields. Numerous fields
www.nhhouston.com • 713-552-1414
to customize dedicated classes to satisfy
of study are available that lead to AAS For more than three decades, New Hori-
degrees or certificates.
zons Computer Learning Centers has been Other Richmond campus programs are
a leader in IT training. With over 100 loca-
in Early Childhood, Emergency Medical
tions worldwide, they have grown to become
Services,
Human
the largest independent training company
Services, Law Enforcement, Business Office
in the industry. Their career and corpo-
Engineering
Design,
Technology, Paralegal Studies, Process Technology, Computer Science, and a Police Academy. WCJC’s Wharton campus offers transfer courses and more than 30 vocational programs. The campus is home to seven allied health programs and programs in Public Safety,
rate training solutions help turn ambitious personal and business goals into results. They use varying training methods for virtually every schedule and learning style, along with vendor-approved learning tools and expert instruction. They have trained more than 30 million people to make the most of technology, and they feel like they are just
specific needs. Learning methods include Online ANYTIME, on-site training, private classes and Online LIVE. Online Live removes
geographical
boundaries
from
learning by bringing students and instructors together synchronously in a virtual realtime classroom environment. This program provides students all of the benefits of being in a dynamic interactive classroom – enabling students to study from work, home or a New Horizons center. New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based lab solutions as well, allowing students to
getting started.
access their labs anytime and anywhere.
Administration, Early Childhood Studies,
Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers
lab environment provides students hands-on
Automotive Technology and Cosmetology. The
an extensive selection of vendor-authorized
access to the systems and applications
Bay City campus offers transfer classes, too, plus
training and certifications for top tech-
taught in the classrooms, empowering them
courses leading to AAS degrees and/or certif-
nology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco,
to learn on their own schedules.
icates in Manufacturing Technology, Nuclear
CompTIA and VMWare. Being an autho-
Power Technology and Process Technology.
rized partner ensures that the students have
Computer Science, Engineering Design, Office
WCJC has formal and informal agreements with many colleges and universities regarding transferability of college credits, helping students save time and money by taking their core courses for four-year
The state-of-the-art, fully-configured live
A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons
the highest quality training materials and
is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for
train on the latest products and technologies
training quality and customer satisfaction
available. Courses provided fall into cate-
as reported by an independent third-party
gories like desktop applications, technical
learning and quality assurance company,
training and professional development.
Knowledge Advisors. Plus, research shows that New Horizons training yields a 4:1
degrees. The college continues to help
Flexible Training Approach Based on
benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager
students achieve their dreams with afford-
Learner Needs - They understand that
surveys regarding the improved performance
able tuition, smaller classes and personalized
not everyone’s learning needs or preferred
and productivity of their employees imme-
attention. To learn more, visit wcjc.edu.
methods are the same. Therefore, their
diately following New Horizons training.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
49
in this section retirement communities independent care assisted living memory & extended care
50
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
ACTIVE ADULTS
+ senior living While the options for living and playing are evolving to meet the changing demands of today’s active seniors, families should carefully approach senior relocation with preparation, sensitivity and patience.
More and more seniors don’t see them-
Turning 65 no longer means receiving a
marathons, volunteer, or take up a new
selves as seniors (unless they get a discount
watch, a party and hearty congratulations
hobby. More people are opting to burn out
if they do). Increasingly, the years after age
for years spent at a job, only to be put out
rather than rust out.
65 are more numerous and more active.
to pasture to watch the rest of the world go
According to the U.S. Department of Health
by. Today’s seniors now have many options,
And the options for living and playing
and Human Services, Americans’ life expec-
dreams and plans, and very often, the
are also evolving to meet the changing
tancy in 2000 was 76.8 years; in 2014, it was
energy to pursue them. Of course, people
demands of this growing group of people.
78.8. One of the reasons is that Americans
with more leisure time can perfect their golf
From upscale retirement communities that
are healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor
swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas,
offer an array of housing, activity, exercise
and emergency room less, spend fewer days
but these days, they’re also choosing to go
and social options, to full-care facilities that
in hospital and exercise more.
back to school, learn a new language, run
care for people with mental and physical
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
51
A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G
disabilities, and every-thing in between,
community center. Want to make new
reverse loan may be paid out in a variety
there is a senior living solution to fit every
friends?
communities
of ways: a lump sum, a regular monthly
desire and need.
are set up to allow you to do just that.
cash advance, as a credit line account, or
Again, the more careful you are in your
TAKING STOCK
any combination of the above. To qualify,
analysis, the more prepared you will be
you must be at least 62, and own the home
In order to narrow your options in what
to make the right decisions.
outright or carry a mortgage small enough
Many
senior’s
could be an overwhelming list of choices and to help you choose the best one, put some time into the stock-taking process by taking a personal inventory of living expenses, health, interests and expectations. Budget Inventory: what does it cost to live every month? What are you spending on housing or rental; how much does it cost to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a mortgage on it? What other expenses do you have? Food, entertainment, transportation? What medical expenses do you currently have, or do you anticipate? Be as thorough and honest in your assessment as you can, so that you can make an
to be paid off by the proceeds; there are no
SHOULD YOU STAY OR SHOULD YOU GO?
income or credit qualifications or monthly payments, but you are responsible to pay the annual taxes, property insurance and
STAY PUT
maintenance of the home.
You can retire in your own home by withdrawing some of the equity you’ve built up
The best way to determine if a reverse mort-
with a reverse mortgage, which is a special
gage is the best fit for your retirement plan is
type of home loan that lets you convert a
to honestly assess the following:
portion of the equity in your home into cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD offers this federally insured private loan which can give you greater financial security to supplement social security,
• How much would the home sell for on today’s market? • What would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home?
informed decision.
meet unexpected medical expenses, make
Lifestyle inventory: How do you want
unlike a traditional home equity loan or
to live? Need more time for golf ? You
second mortgage, you usually do not have
might want to live on a course. Want to
to repay the loan until you no longer use
• What are the options for downsizing into
do some volunteering? You may decide
the home as your principal residence,
a less expensive home, renting an apart-
to move closer to the city, school or
sell it, or pass away. The money from a
ment, or moving into an assisted living or
52
home improvements and more. And,
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
• Would there be any money left over from the purchase of a new home that could be safely invested?
alternative senior housing situation? (Visit AARP’s website and use their Reverse Mortgage Calculator: www.aarp.com).
PACK IT UP
“
But maybe, it’s time for a move. Perhaps the 30-year family home is too big and you’re rattling around it like a marble in a shoe box, or you’re tired of the outdoor upkeep, or you want to be closer to the place or activities that you now have time for. Before
Seniors in Houston find that they have a wide variety of housing options that can accommodate their budget, while enjoying their lifestyle in a community that encourages the development and pursuit of their personal interests.
”
you choose your new home, once again, take stock. Be realistic about your situation, your expectations, your finances and your health. It’s as important to consider access to medical doctors and facilities as it is to think about fun and leisure pursuits. Make sure the new community is one that you
company of others and your own personal
services. Where is the community located
interests. Moving to an active independent
in proximity to major health care providers?
living retirement community might be the
What security measures are in place for
best fit for your budget and lifestyle, where
residents? For ultimate peace of mind, you
options include renting an apartment or
might opt to rent a home under a short-term
purchasing a property.
agreement at first to make sure the commu-
will enjoy, that it has convenient amenities and access to services, and that a new
Many active senior communities have infor-
house will be a good investment. If you’re
mation packets and offer tours. A personal
still active, you might want to be among
visit will give valuable, firsthand information
folk just like you. Think carefully before
and an opportunity to meet current residents
making decisions that will determine your
who can share their own experience and
happiness in the years to come.
insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness
nity provides for your needs and lives up to your expectations.
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES A Continuing Care Retirement Community
programs, organized activities, sporting
(CCRC) offers care in a residential facility
ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES
options, and social opportunities. Other
for seniors, with a full menu of services and
day-to-day living arrangements should also
living situations. Residents may go from
If you’re a healthy, independent senior,
be considered, such as shopping centers and
independent living, to assisted living and
you may find that you simply want to live
grocery stores within easy walking distance,
nursing home care, depending on their indi-
in a community where you can enjoy the
and
vidual, changing needs and abilities.
the
availability
of
transportation
SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS “The time to begin thinking about a retirement community isn’t when you have to have it,” advises Terry Martinez with Parmer Woods Retirement & Assisted Living. “Think about it when you don’t need it. There are a wide variety of alternatives available for every level of activity, health and need. Today’s Baby Boomers who are in or approaching their retirement years are taking advantage of active retirement communities where residents are vigorous and involved. Or, they are finding senior-care housing communities that em-ploy medically trained staff, provide housekeeping and meal preparation services, as well as transportation for shopping, medical visits, and social outing. Or, they are seeking a more physically and medically sup-portive environment. Whatever choice is best for you, it’s out there, but should be considered without stress.
And the prices vary. “When you’re trying to stay within a particular price range, you want to match your living requirements with services offered,” says Martinez. “If you are very independent and don’t need assistance – just want a meal plan, for example – then the associated costs are much less than for someone who requires more care.” Also, Medicare generally does not pay for long-term care, only for services deemed medically necessary that are provided by a skilled facility or home health care center. Medicaid will pay for certain health services and nursing home care for older people with low incomes and limited assets. The place you choose should facilitate life at a level of independence that is comfortable for you or for your loved one.
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53
A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G
A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or
Before signing a contract with a CCRC,
good health, but might need some assistance
Communities) generally offers a contract
conduct a thorough review of the facil-
with daily living needs or require skilled
that covers a continuum of care, including
ity’s services, operations and finances,
nursing care.
access to housing, services, and health care
and determine if it is appropriate to your
for more than one year, or the balance of
needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also
one’s life. It is a wise idea to move into a
a good idea to ask a family attorney or
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES
CCRC sooner rather than later, as most
accountant to review the contract. If the
require that new residents live independently
contract is found agreeable, ask to spend
An Assisted Living Community (ALC)
when they first move in.
at least one night and two days at the facility, to test drive the community and
There is a range of contract options offered
make sure it is a good fit. Some points to
by CCRCs. An extensive-care contract
consider include:
is the most expensive, but carries the least risk, providing unlimited long-term nursing care at little or no additional cost
tance with daily activities a nursing home might offer, but wish to live independently. Residents in an ALC are unable to live completely by themselves, but don’t need
• Are pets allowed in your residence?
constant supervision. An ALC offers its
• What social, recreational and cultural
residents assistance with eating, bathing,
activities are offered?
for as long as nursing-home services are required. A modified-care contract comes
bridges the gap for those who need assis-
dressing, laundry, housekeeping, and keeping track of medications. They often have centers
• Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it?
• Are there fitness facilities onsite?
specified period, after which, the senior
• Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable?
or guardian is responsible for additional
nursing home. An ALC is not a substitute for
• What healthcare and personal care
a nursing home, but rather is a stepping stone
with medium financial risk, and provides long-term health or nursing services for a
costs. A fee-for-service contract offers an a-la-carte approach, requiring that residents pay separately for all health and medical
services are available?
• What preparations have been made emergency situations?
long-term care.
the extensive medical services provided by a
between complete independence and services
for handling medical and evacuation
services provided by the facility, as well as
for medical care, but typically do not offer
• Is there easy access to offsite activities
Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus
such as shopping and is transportation
monthly fees thereafter. Some require an
provided?
provided by a nursing home. Often, an ALC will create an individualized service plan for seniors upon admission, detailing personal services that will be provided. This plan is then periodically reviewed and updated to ensure
equity agreement where seniors purchase a condominium or co-op apartment on the
CCRCs can be anything from high-rise
changing needs are met. Housing in an
property instead of paying an entrance fee.
apartments, to cottages, townhouses or
ALC may be studios or one-bedroom
Less commonly found are CCRC contracts
single-family homes, and are an excellent
apartments with small kitchen facilities.
where residents pay monthly fees only.
option for those who are independent and in
Typically, ALC housing units have group
54
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities. As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions:
• Are the grounds well maintained?
• Is the staff friendly?
• Are the residents properly dressed?
• What activities are available?
ALCs that competently provide required services without forgetting about little details will give the same care and attention to residents.
NURSING CARE FACILITIES A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a state licensed, private-care facility that provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home. It pays to shop around when selecting an NCF. Consult with a trusted doctor or health care practitioner for recom-
recommending one facility over another,
mendations of nearby facilities. Plan on
they can answer the following recommended
ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES
visiting at least four or five area facili-
questions about any facility:
Seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease
ties, and make an appointment with the administrator or director of nursing.
Check to make sure that information provided is consistent with information gathered during the facility tour.
terminations in the past two years?
• How many complaints have been filed in the past year?
The home should have clean floors and
smell fresh.
• Have there been any proposed license
• How many complaints in the past year have been found to be valid?
Ask to see the compliance survey report prepared by the State of Texas. It will list deficiencies found in resident care during routine inspections, and the facil-
in the past two years?
other survey compliance reports available upon request, as well as a well-lit place for review.
• How many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years?
ity’s effort to correct them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must make this and
• How many deficiencies have been cited
• When did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit?
• Has the owner of this facility had other facilities recommended for license
Another option available is to contact the
termination?
or another form of dementia need specialized care. While some Assisted Living Communities offer services and separate facilities for residents with early onset symptoms, because of the progressive nature of the disease, it may become necessary to transfer the resident to another facility that can give the right level of service. Facilities specializing in the care of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients should provide a treatment plan that considers not only the resident’s medical needs, but also the needs of the entire family with social services, professional consultations and individualized treatment reviews, all set within a calm, soothing environment that is sensi-
Texas Department of Aging and Disability
The answers to these questions, combined with
Services
or
observations and impressions made during
state
facility tours and staff interviews will allow
www.agingcare.com for additional informa-
from
you to select the right nursing care facility.
tion on care for the elderly.
(DADS)
at
www.dads.state.tx.us. law
prohibits
agency
800-458-9858 While employees
tive to the needs of the patient. Please visit
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
55
in this section moving companies forwarding mail service & utilities public transportation international relocation
56
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
RELOCATION INFORMATION
No one likes to move and it’s never without its headaches and hassles, but the more you understand the process, and your new environment, the easier the move will be and the faster you can start enjoying your new home.
Obtaining as much information as possible
Compare the relative costs of moving your-
who is moving back from overseas, then you
in advance about Fort Bend County and
self versus using the services of a moving
might have many items in U.S. storage, so
the Greater Houston area will make your
company, and be sure to take into consider-
you’ll need to plan the logistics of getting
move much smoother, especially if you are
ation your time and effort, as well as your
these to your new home as well.
relocating from out-of-state. To help get
physical ability.
you started, the following pages offer some general tips on Houston’s basic services. More helpful information on moving is at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
At the other extreme, the global economy of Houston – and Fort Bend County in particular – draws newcomers from all over the world, and there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when moving from
MOVING COMPANIES
TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES Most companies give free estimates based on distance and the weight of household contents. Some moving companies
overseas. If your overseas move is work-re-
include the costs of packing materials in
If you are moving from out of state, it may
lated, find out how much of the expense will
their bid while others break out supplies
be necessary to hire a moving company.
be covered. As a general rule, many experts
separately. Packing services, fuel charges,
The best time to move is the middle of
recommend scaling the move down to essen-
wait time and temporary storage costs
the month rather than the end or during
tial items and those with emotional value.
may vary considerably so be sure to ask
summer vacation, when moving companies
Find out about import fees and duty costs,
about all charges.
are usually busiest.
especially for items you may have purchased overseas. Also consider the size of your new
Moving companies offer three types of esti-
If the move is less than 250 miles away,
space: will it be larger or smaller than the
mates: the binding estimate, non-binding
consider
home you’re leaving? If you’re a U.S. citizen
estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate.
making
the
move
yourself.
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57
R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
belongings will go into storage, and the moving company may require payment in cash before unloading. Tax deductions may apply to your move so keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S. at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov, or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
TIPS FOR HIRING A MOVING COMPANY • Select a moving company carefully by confirming their license at www.protectyourmove.gov or www.dmv.state.tx.us • The Southwest Association is another resource for information about moving companies and they can be reached at The binding estimate lists all items to be
movers if they offer this type of service.
www.southwestmovers.org
or
512-476-
0107, Toll Free: 800-759-2305
shipped and the required services on the estimate form, and the price quoted is the
MORE CONSIDERATIONS
binding price. Every charge is itemized,
Be aware that many moving companies
so that if an item is added or deleted, it is
fall behind schedule, so consider hiring
easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving
a moving company that will guarantee a
company must also specify the length of
pickup and delivery date. Make sure those
time the price quote is in effect, which is
• The Interstate Commerce Commission
dates are in the contract. Pick-up and
usually 60 days. This type of estimate does
offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and
delivery dates should not be open-ended.
not require additional payment over the amount of the estimate.
Although
moving
companies
provide
liability insurance on household belong-
• Contact the Better Business Bureau for any complaints that might be on file at www.houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500.
Responsibilities When You Move.” ICC Office of Compliance and Consumer Assistance, Washington, D.C., 20423.
The non-binding estimate, which is the only
ings by the pound, it is wise to purchase
You can also find the brochure on many
type of estimate offered in some intrastate
extra insurance that provides additional
websites by searching for its title.
situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost
coverage, especially for those items that
of services is determined after the truck is
are more valuable.
FURNITURE AND APPLIANCE RENTAL
the estimate can run more than 20 percent.
Before the movers arrive, begin making
In some cases, it may be necessary to rent
Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both
preparations. Take an inventory of your
before and after furniture and household
belongings and note their condition. If the
furniture or appliances while waiting for
items are loaded to accurately calculate the
moving company performs their own inven-
total weight. The estimated amount of your
tory, check it carefully against your own
move should be entered on each form that
before signing anything. Should any of
is prepared by the mover, including orders
your belongings arrive with scratches, dents
for special services and bills of lading. If
or other damages, photographs will help
the amounts are not included, do not sign
verify a claim so consider taking pictures of
or accept the document.
valuable items or making a video inventory
loaded and weighed, and charges above
before the movers arrive. The third type of estimate, called the not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best.
It is important to be sure you will be at
The mover gives a binding estimate, then
your new home on the date the moving
weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if
company is scheduled to deliver. If no
the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all
one is home to receive the delivery, your
58
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
your old ones to be delivered, or while shopping for new items that will fit your new space perfectly. Some companies specialize in renting furniture to newcomers and offer packages by the household, the room or by the piece. They also offer different styles, along with accessories such as artwork, lighting, rugs and indoor plants. Flexible lease terms, quick delivery and professional setup and removal are some of the services offered by rental companies. If you decide you like a particular item or items, purchase is usually available.
FORWARDING MAIL
GAS
To submit your change of address go to
CenterPoint Energy is the major provider
TELEPHONE, CABLE, AND INTERNET SERVICE
www.usps.com. The USPS can hold your mail,
for natural gas in the greater Houston
The Greater Houston area has four area
forward or accommodate a change of address.
and Fort Bend County area. As the
codes: 713, 281, 832, and the newest,
regulated utility in the Houston area,
346. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing
LEGAL RECORDS
CenterPoint Energy owns and maintains
is required. The many telephone service
Legal Records maintained by Fort Bend County include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings, DBAs, taxes, and more. Contact the county of residence for specific services offered.
the electric delivery system as well as
providers to choose from also offer satellite
sells natural gas. Visit CenterPointEn-
and cable television services, along with
ergy.com to learn more. The ENERGY
bundled services, special promotional rates
STAR program supports energy effi-
and discounts for newcomers.
buying an ENERGY STAR home at
TRASH PICKUP
The Fort Bend County Court House is located at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, TX, 77469. Phone: 281-342-3411. www.fortbendcountytx.gov
www.houstonenergystarhomes.com.
Many municipalities, such as Sugar Land
SERVICE AND UTILITIES
ciency in new homes. Learn more about
and Katy, provide trash pick-up. Call the
WATER AND SEWER
solid waste department in your jurisdiction
Water, sewage and drainage services are
to find out which day garbage and light
typically provided by the public works
trash are collected.
department in each city, or by a municipal utility district (MUD). There are
Many subdivisions opt to contract with local
ELECTRICITY
a number of these districts throughout
collection companies, and fees for these
Retail Electric Providers compete to sell electricity, allowing consumers to compare plans, pricing and features. The Public Utility Commission recommends the three “C’s” before selecting a provider: contact, compare, and choose. Allow several days for the order to process. If establishing service for a new home or building, a permit or inspection may be required.
Fort Bend County and services vary by
services are typically included in the home-
district. Contact your local city or HOA
owner’s association dues. Contact your
for detailed information.
homeowner’s association for information.
Select electricity, natural gas, local phone and long distance, cable or satellite television, and high-speed Internet services at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
COMCAST Windstream is a customer-focused telecommunications company that provides phone, high-speed Internet, digital television, a wide range of IP-based voice/data services, and equipment to consumers, businesses and government agencies. They are one of the largest rural telecommunications providers in the United
Ride the Fort Bend Express Safe • Dependable • Affordable Fort Bend Transit provides weekday Shared Ride Services within Fort Bend County as well as Express Commuter Services to the Texas Medical Center, Uptown Galleria and Greenway Plaza.
States and their Kinetic products offer speeds up to 1G through their newly enhanced fiber network. For Fast Affordable Reliable Internet Call 1-866-877-7662, www.windstream.com/Sugarland
281-633-RIDE
866-751-TRIP (8747)
www.FBCTransit.org HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
59
R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
Curbside recycling is offered in most neighborhoods, and drop-off recycling centers are located throughout the area.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION The Metropolitan Transit Authority of the Gulf Coast region, also known as METRO, is recognized as one of the best and safest bus systems in the nation offering an extensive system of bus routes and a growing network of light-rail lines. METRO provides Park & Ride services from two locations in Missouri City. Visit www.ridemetro.org for details. METRO also operates High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes on U.S. 59 South and I-10 West, along with toll lanes on I-10 West. To share a ride, contact the METRO Carpool Matching Service, 713-635-4000. Fort Bend County also offers express commuter park and ride services from lots in Sugar Land and Rosenberg to the Texas Medical Center, Greenway Plaza and The Galleria. Go to www.fortbendcountytx.gov for information. The Fort Bend County Toll Road Authority operates all or part of three toll roads: the Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road, the Grand
To obtain a Texas driver license, take proof
already registered to vote but who change
of registration, proof of insurance, a Social
precincts need to file an address change. For
Security card or a current W-2 form, and
information, go to www.votetexas.gov. In
a valid out-of-state license to the nearest
Harris County, call 713-368-VOTE. In Fort
Department of Public Safety office. For
Bend County, call 281-342-3411 or visit
license requirements including fees and locations, visit www.txdps.state.tx.us. Vehicles may be registered for license plates at district field offices in the county of residence. The cost is based on the model and year for cars and gross weight
www.fortbendcountytx.gov.
FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS For emergencies only: dial 911. For non-emergencies: dial 311.
for trucks. Subsequent registration may be handled by mail or in person. Motor
The Fort Bend County Sheriff ’s Office has
vehicle registration renewals may be
jurisdiction in those parts of the region
purchased at various locations.
that lie in Fort Bend.
In Fort
Bend County, call 281-342-3411 or visit Active Crime Watch programs operate in
www.fortbendcountytx.gov.
numerous neighborhoods, and another
Parkway Toll Road and the Westpark
Texas law requires that the driver and front seat
Tollway. Details are at www.fbctra.com.
very valuable program known as Crime
passenger wear seat belts. Children eight years
Stoppers accepts anonymous tips and
of age or younger or less than 4 feet nine inches
offers rewards for information leading to
tall must be secured in an approved car seat.
an arrest. Fort Bend County Crime Stop-
The Harris County Motorist Assistance Program (MAP), sponsored in part by METRO, helps motorists experiencing car trouble on Houston area freeways. The
Texas also has a mandatory automobile liability insurance law, and if a driver is stopped for any reason, proof of liability insurance coverage
pers 281-342-TIPS (8477)
PETS
specially marked MAP vehicles are equipped
will be necessary. The insurance required
to handle minor automotive emergencies.
must provide: $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000
In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing
per person per accident and $25,000 property
licenses
OWNING A VEHICLE
damage. A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle
impounded. Dogs and cats in Texas must
New residents must obtain a Texas driv-
Laws is available at www.dps.texas.gov.
be vaccinated against rabies by four months
and/or
on
a
leash
can
be
of age. Boosters are given one year after the
er’s license within 30 days of establishing residency. Texas residents moving to a new
VOTING
initial vaccination, and pets will need to be
address within the state must update their
Texas voters must be 18 years old and register
vaccinated at one- to three-year intervals
license as well.
at least 30 days prior to an election. Those
depending on local requirements.
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
CONNECT FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 Fort Bend County........www.co.fort-bend.tx.us County Courthouse.....................281-342-3411 301 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469
Kendleton...................................979-532-8240
Public Works Department...........281-261-3921
Lamar Consolidated ISD............281-341-3229 3911 Avenue I Rosenberg, TX 77471 www.lcisd.org
Stafford Centre...........................281-208-6900
City of Meadows Place www.cityofmeadowsplace.org
Stafford Municipal School District.......................................281-261-9200 1625 Staffordshire Road Stafford, TX 77477 www.staffordmsd.org
Animal Control..........................281-342-1512
City Hall ....................................281-983-2950 One Troyan Drive Meadows Place, TX 77477
Central Appraisal District............281-344-8623
Fire Department.........................281-261-3995
Child Support.............................281-342-6222
Police Department......................281-983-2900
City Hall.....................................281-275-2700 2700 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479
County Attorney.........................281-341-4555
Public Works Department...........281-983-2961
Fire Department.........................281-275-2873
County Clerk..............................281-341-8685
Sugar Land.................... www.sugarlandtx.gov
Police Department......................281-275-2500 Missouri City..............www.missouricitytx.gov
Public Works Department...........281-275-2450
District Clerk..............................281-341-4515
City Hall.....................................281-403-8500 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, TX 77489
Thompsons ................................281-343-9929
Drainage District........................281-342-2863
Fire Department.........................281-403-4300
Engineering................................281-633-7500
Police Department .....................281-403-8700
Extension Service.......................281-342-3034
Public Works..............................281-403-8570
County Courthouse.....................713-755-5000 1201 Franklin St. Houston, TX 77002
Needville....................................979-793-4253
County Clerk..............................713-755-6411
Needville ISD.............................979-793-4158 100 Fritzella Street Needville, TX 77461 www.needvilleisd.com
District Attorney.........................713-755-5800
Orchard......................................979-478-6893
Vehicle Registration....................713-368-2000
Pleak..........................................281-239-8504
Voter Registration.......................713-368-2000
Social Services............................281-342-7300
Richmond...................... www.richmondtx.gov
Houston...........................www.houstontx.gov
Tax Assessor...............................281-238-1490
City Hall.....................................281-342-5456 402 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469
City Hall.....................................832-393-1100 900 Bagby Houston, TX 77002
Fire Department.........................281-232-6871
Fire Department.........................832-394-6700
Police Department......................281-342-2849
General Information................................. 311
Public Works Department...........281-342-0559
Police Department......................713-884-3131
County Judge..............................281-341-8608 District Attorney.........................281-341-4460
Fairgrounds................................281-762-8818 Health Department.....................281-238-3233 Human Resources.......................281-341-8615 Medical Non-Emergency............281-342-7233 Parks Department.......................281-835-9419 Post Office..................................800-275-8777 Public Transportation..................281-633-7433 Sheriff ’s Department...................281-342-6116
Vehicle Registration....................281-341-3710 Veterans Services........................281-341-4550 Voter Registration.......................281-341-8670 Fort Bend ISD............................281-634-1000 16431 Lexington Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.fortbendcounty.com
Harris County............ www.harriscountytx.gov
Fire Marshal...............................281-436-8000 Health Department.....................713-439-6016 Sheriff ’s Department...................713-755-6044
Public Works Department...........832-395-2511 Rosenberg...................... www.rosenbergtx.gov
BUSINESS RESOURCES
Arcola........................................281-431-0606
City Hall.....................................832-595-3300 2110 Fourth Street Rosenberg, TX 77471
Beasley.......................................979-387-2775
Civic Center................................832-595-3520
Internal Revenue Service.............800-829-1040
Fairchilds....................................979-793-6610
Fire Department.........................832-595-3600
Small Business Administration....713-773-6500
Fulshear.....................................281-346-1796
Police Department......................832-595-3700
State Comptroller of Public Accounts..........................281-371-5500
Public Works Department...........832-595-3960
Fire Department.........................281-391-3500
Fort Bend Chamber....................281-491-0800
Texas Dept. of Economics...........512-936-0101
Katy...............................www.cityofkaty.coms City Hall ....................................281-391-4800 910 Ave C, Katy TX 774943
Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500
Simonton....................www.simontontexas.org
Texas Railroad Commission .......877-228-5740
City Hall.....................................281-533-9809 35011 FM 1093 Simonton, TX 77476
Social Security Administration....800-772-1213
Stafford..................... www.cityofstafford.com
CONSUMER RESOURCES
City Hall.....................................281-261-3900 2610 South Main Stafford, TX 77477
Texas Taxpayers and Research Association..................512-472-8838
U.S. Customs .............................713-387-7200 U.S. Dept. of Commerce.............202-482-2000
Police Department......................281-391-4848 Public Works Department...........281-391-4820 Katy ISD....................................281-396-6000 6301 South Stadium Lane Katy, TX 77494 www.katyisd.org
Fire Department.........................281-261-3977
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.....................800-638-2772
Police Department......................281-261-3950
U.S. Consumer Information........800-688-9889
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61
R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
MOVING TIPS What to do Social Security Number 1-800-772-1213 Information/ Application www.ssa.gov/forms Physical locations: 8989 Lakes at 610 Drive, 77054 16200 Dillard Drive, 77040 5414 Aldine Mail Road, 77039
THINGS TO KNOW Wait 10 days after your arrival to apply for a social security number. Takes approximately 2 weeks for the card to arrive. No fee for the application. Take original or certified copies of immigration documents, passport & biographical information & photo. 62
TRANSPORTATION
Credit Card
Texas Drivers License Application & Locations: www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/movingtotexas.htm • Texas has a 90-day grace period. • A written & driving skills test required. • Credit cards, cash, checks, and money orders. • Take your passport, social security number, proof of residency, lawful presence, status. • Proof of vehicle registry. • Completed application.
www.creditcards.com
BANKING
for details).
when opening a bank account. • You will need a residential address, phone & place of employment, credit history.
HOUSING Apartment
Houston Apartment Association Q&A: www.haaonline.org • Prices for apartments are based on apartment size and number of bedrooms Rates typically include basic utilities (ask • Rental requirements include: a credit &
Credit Unions
security check. Texas Drivers license,
www.findabetterbank.com • Credit unions are owned by members. If your company has a credit union, you can easily set up an account and get a credit card. • Social Security number, a photo ID (passport), minimum deposit required.
passport, bank statement, proof of employment, and a deposit. • Rental applications may require your credit history, employment history, rental history and criminal history, and disclosure of legal status or proof of legal residency. • You are responsible for your lease for the
Banks
entire term of your contract.
www.findabetterbank.com • A checking account can be opened individually or jointly. • A debit card will give you immediate access online and at ATMs. • Social Security number, driver’s license, proof of residence, photo ID (passport), pay stub or utility bill and a minimum opening deposit. • International banks in the USA include HSBC, Citigroup, Barclays, Deustche Bank and Credit Suisse. An account at one of these banks can usually be opened in the US.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
• Request a credit card & debit card (ATM)
– ISSUE 2
• If you terminate your lease contract early, rent may be accelerated and additional charges can be levied against you. • Get any changes to your lease contract or term in writing. • Be sure to ask about pet deposits. • Apartment locators will help you find an apartment and their services are free.
Leasing a Home • Leasing a home is much like renting an apartment. • You might be expected to take care of the yard on a weekly basis, maintain the
property and abide by homeowner regulations. • You will pay all the utility bills (water, power, trash pickup & cable). • You will need a TX driver’s license, proof of employment, credit & personal references & a deposit consisting of the first & last month’s rent.
TAXES
State of Texas
Private Schools • HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax and property tax only.
• Houstonprivateschools.com
Internal Revenue Service
There are a variety of independent and faith-
• Privateschoolreview.com
Federal income tax for most workers is filed on April 15 of each year. There are numerous rules and regulations for expatriates, the following are resources to get you started. Your employer can also assist you. Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov
based private schools in the Houston area.
Realtor/Homes for Sale & Lease
EDUCATION
International Baccalaureate program and
Day Care:
might be better suited for children
www.HAR.com • You can check your credit score through your bank. • To purchase a home you will need a good credit score based on your credit history. • Report all of your income on your tax return as mortgage loans require proof of income - typically your IRS return. • You do not need a Realtor to purchase a home, but Realtors are trained to help you with pricing and other legal responsibilities. • Realtors use various sources including Multiple Listing Service to find homes. • Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.
www.childcarecenter.us
planning to later attend university
• Some centers only care for children until
outside the US.
New Homes/Builders/ Communities
• Child’s birth certificate, passport, social
Buying a home • You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com Realtors are independent and can help you locate a newly constructed home available from a variety of builders. Builder sales reps. work for the builder. If you are working with a Realtor, you should register your Realtor with the homebuilder when you arrive.
HEALTHCARE
Affordable Care Act www.healthcare.gov • If you are relocating to the U.S. for a job, the HR department will assist you with health insurance for your family. • To shop and compare health insurance visit the Affordable Care Act web page. • You will need your social security number, passport, health history, employer information, and a credit card.
• Enrollment is most cases is based on openings in certain grades. • Check with each school for enrollment requirements as they vary from school to school. • International schools offer the
they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5. Other schools offer Kindergarten.
IMMIGRATION VISA
• Will need your child’s birth certificate,
Most questions are answered on the U.S.
social security number, passport,
Citizenship & Immigration web sites below.
application.
Contact your Consulate about your coun-
• Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different
try’s requirements.
times of the day. Ask for referrals.
General How Do I Guides:
Public Schools
• www.uscis.gov
PK-12 Texas Education Association: tea.texas.gov • Required for children 6-18 years of age in USA. security number, transcript, doctor’s statement. • The Houston area has excellent public schools which serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade. • You can research individual school districts, schools, ratings and test scores at the Texas Education Association web site. Elementary school (grade 1 through 5 or 6), Middle school or junior high (up to grade 8 or 9), High school or senior high (up to grade 12).
College www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools
• www.uscitizenship.info Employment Visas: • www.travel.state.gov • www.uscis.gov Green Card: www.uscis.gov/greencard Permanent Residents: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov
PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.state.tx.us • Dogs & cats must be vaccinated by 4 months of age followed by booster shots every couple of years. • Pets not wearing license tags and/or leashed can be impounded.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
63
PLACES OF
WORSHIP
Half of Americans have looked for a new church or place of worship, most because they moved. Finding a church or place of worship for newcomers usually begins with a personal visit and introduction. When making a final choice, regular church goers most value quality of the sermons and feeling welcome, followed by the style of the service and location.* *Pew Research 2015
64
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should easily be able to find a spiritual home in the Fortbend area. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, and access to groups with common interests. If you are looking to make new friends, a congregation might be the perfect place to find them. The Fortbend area has hundreds of churches and places of worship, some of the churches have huge congregations while others have a hundred or fewer. All of them welcome newcomers through their doors. Bridge Fellowship - 281-494-3046 802 Brooks Street, Sugar Land, 77478
First United Methodist Church Sugar Land - 281-491-6041 431 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478
Logos Christian Center & Bible Institute - 713-541-2740 8690 W. Belfort, Houston, 77031
Fishers of Men Lutheran Church 281-242-7711 | 2011 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479
Mosaic Community Covenant Church & Learning Center 713-269-4774 | 4427 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479
Fort Bend Church - 281-980-8322 P.O. Box 1057, Sugar Land, 77487 Fort Bend Community Church 281-499-2131 | 7707 Highway 6, Missouri City, 77459 Fort Bend Family Church 281-495-7377 | 12220-K Murphy Rd., Stafford, 77477 Forty Holy Martyrs of Sebaste Orthodox Christian Church 281-240-4845 | 340 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478
Calvary Church - 281-634-0200 12410 Sugar Dale, Stafford, 77477
Freedom Center Church (281) 499-0594 2303 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459
Christ United Methodist Church 281-980-6888 | 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479
Grandview Fellowship Church 281-961-3378 | P.O. Box 19025, Sugar Land, 77496
Cornerstone Community Bible Church - 281-313-8555 4771 Sweetwater #137, Sugar Land, 77479
Greatwood Community Church 281-491-5588 | 13333 Southwest Freeway, #280, Sugar Land, 77478
CRM City Fellowship Church 281-313-1213 | PO Box 17538, Sugar Land, 77496
Heritage Baptist Church 281-403-4994 | 2223 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459
Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church 281-342-2989 | 303 N. 10th Street, Richmond, 77406 Redeemer Sugar Land 281-751-8639 | 109 Industrial Blvd. #E Sugar Land, 77478 River Pointe Church 281-277-6767 | 5000 Ransom Rd., Richmond, 77469 Southminster Presbyterian 281-499-2310 | 2310 Brightwater Dr., Missouri City, 77479 Sugar Creek Baptist Church 281-242-2858 | 13333 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land, 77478 Sugar Grove Church of Christ 281-530-9651 | 11600 W. Airport Meadows Place, 77477 Sugar Land Baptist Church 281-980-4431 | 16755 S.W. Freeway, Sugar Land, 77479 The Freedom Center 281-499-0594 | 2303 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459
Crossbridge Church - 281-313-8300 1049 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478
Holy Angels Lutheran 281-937-0151 | 810 Bent Knoll Court, Sugar Land, 77479
Fellowship of Love Church 281-497-1971 | 10223 Clodine Rd., Richmond, 77407
Holy Cross Episcopal Church 281-633-2000 | 5356 West River Park Dr Sugar Land, 77479
Word of God Ministries 409-549-2626 | 4318 Kylewood Ct., Port Arthur, 77642
First Colony Church of Christ 281-980-7070 | 2140 First Colony Blvd., Sugar Land, 77479
Holy Family Catholic Church 281-499-9688 | 1510 Fifth Street, Missouri City, 77459
Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center 1700 First Colony Blvd Sugar Land, 77479
First Presbyterian Church of Sugar Land | 281-240-3195 502 Eldridge, Sugar Land, 77478
Hope Christian Fellowship 281-243-9110 | 4800 Sugar Grove Bldg. #290, Stafford, 77477
Hindu BAPS Mandir 1150 Brand Lane, Stafford 77477
First United Methodist Church Missouri City | 281-499-3502 3900 Lexington Blvd. Missouri City, 77459 www.fumcmc.org
Houston’s First Baptist - Sienna 713-865-7670 | 4309 Sienna Parkway, Missouri City, 77459
Triumph Christian Center 281-242-5109
Vietnamese Buddhist Center 10002 Synott Road, Sugar Land
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65
in this section finding a doctor medical moving tips area hospitals
66
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Fort Bend County have grown over the years to meet the healthcare needs of the communities they serve. Patients now have the opportunity to heal closer to home, work and family.
From gleaming full-service hospitals to specialty clinics and emergency care facilities, Fort Bend County offers some of the best healthcare in the Houston region. The world-famous Texas Medical Center is only about 30 minutes from some parts of Fort Bend. It’s so close, in fact, that many Fort Bend residents work in this growing complex of hospitals and research institutions. Thanks to its fast-growing and affluent population, Fort Bend County is home to some of the most modern and comprehensive healthcare facilities in the Greater Houston region. Family doctors and specialists, emergency clinics and several large, award–winning hospitals have built new facilities in Fort Bend County and nearby Southwest Houston. These state-of-the-art facilities offer advanced cardiac care, cancer research and therapy, trauma care, sports medicine, and many other innovative
treatments. Staff include top ranking physi-
methods. For patients, it means having
cians, quality nursing care and highly skilled
the best tools to prevent health problems
support services.
as well as the best chance to regain their health following an illness or injury. It’s
MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITIES
no wonder Memorial Hermann is the only Houston health system to receive both the National Quality Forum’s National Quality Health¬care Award in 2009 and the 2012
Memorial Hermann
John M. Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety
713-222-CARE (2273)
and Quality from The Joint Commission
www.memorialhermann.org
and the National Quality Forum, the
Advancing Health in Houston - Memorial Hermann has created Houston’s largest, full-
nation’s guard¬ians of health and safety. One of the largest not-for-profit health systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann is
service, integrated health system focused
an integrated system that serves South¬east
on advancing the health of the community.
Texas and the Greater Houston commu-
For the system’s 6,000 affiliated physicians
nity with 19 hospitals*, including four in
and 26,000 employees, it means exercising
the Texas Medical Center, a level I trauma
uncompromising commitment to deliver
center, a hospital for children, one of the top
the best health care possible by harnessing
two rehabilitation hospitals in the United
leading-edge technology and using the safest
States, an orthopedic and spine hospital.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
67
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
Affiliated with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, the system also operates four Heart & Vascular Institute locations; the Memorial Hermann Mischer Neuroscience Institute at the Texas Medical Center; the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute at four locations; eight Memorial Hermann Joint Centers offering advanced treatment options for joint pain; Women’s Memorial Hermann; Memorial Hermann Life Flight® – one of the busiest air ambulance services in the United States; the Prevention and Recovery Center for chemical dependency treatment; and a comprehensive array of home health services, rehabilitation centers, outpatient imaging and laboratory services. The system’s ambulatory care network also includes Memorial Hermann Urgent Care and Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Centers. Using its resources to advance the health of the community, Memorial Hermann contributes in excess of $451 million annually in uncompensated care and community benefit programs, including an award-winning network of public schoolbased health centers.
FINDING A DOCTOR
Proudly caring for the residents of Sugar Land and Fort Bend County since 2006, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital is the first Houston-area hospital to earn
The following is list of local and national physician resource, -
the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National
where you can search for general practice physicians by location,
Quality Award, the nation’s highest Presi-
specialty, and more.
dential honor for performance excel¬lence. To meet the growing healthcare needs of
American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician resource under the “Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is comprehensive site for health-related news, questions, and other topics. www.aap.org • www.healthychildren.org
Fort Bend County, Memorial Hermann Sugar
Land
recently
opened
a
new
155,000-square-foot patient tower, capping off a $93 million campus expan¬sion and bringing the total bed count to 147. Conveniently located at the intersection of Hwy. 59 and Grand Parkway, Memo¬rial Hermann Sugar Land offers advanced equipment and state-of-the-art technology to address any healthcare need, from birthing services and
Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across the state, as well as information on general health resources; go to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org
emergency pediatrics to sports medicine and orthopedics, including the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute. Area residents can now stay close to home for increasingly complex healthcare issues and receive high-quality care delivered by
68
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING 2018
a highly skilled staff and affiliated physi¬cians spanning more than 65 specialties. Beyond the expanded ICU and new adult intermediate care unit, there is state-ofthe-art equipment, including new diagnostic monitoring systems, to enhance patient care. The expanded Emergency Center further enhances the hospital’s outstanding heart attack care for patients arriving with chest pain. A nationally accredited Chest Pain Center, the hospital has affiliated heart specialists available 24/7 to perform balloon coronary (angioplasty) in its cardiac catheterization lab. Growing families will appreciate the expanded labor and delivery rooms, an expanded nursery and neonatal ICU, more beds for pediatric patients and space for future expansion. In addition, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land is Fort Bend County’s only pediatric ER designed and staffed to care specifically for children. The hospital’s growing group of affili¬ated physicians
with
pediatric
subspecialty
training in gastroenterology, neurology, orthopedics,
otorhinolaryngology
(ear,
nose & throat), pulmonology, urology and sleep medicine ensures children can receive advanced specialty care close to home. *Memorial Hermann Health System owns and operates 14 hospitals and has joint ventures with five other hospital facilities. CHI St. Luke’s Health Sugar Land www.chistlukeshealth.org FOCUSED ON SERVING FORT BEND - There’s a reason people choose to live and raise their families in Fort Bend. It’s the strength of the community that makes this place a fitting home.
gastroenterology, neuroscience, diagnostic imaging, orthopedics, and surgical services that include robotics technology…but also it’s part of CHI — Catholic Health Initiatives.
• Three patient care pavilions with 347 beds and 27 operating rooms • Specialized centers for breast care; cardiology and vascular care; emergency care;
Because of the strong backing that comes from one of the top healthcare systems in the nation, patients can have confidence knowing they’ll find hospitals and emergency centers throughout the Greater Houston area that they can trust to provide the highest level of care. Plus, the Sugar Land hospital is a Pink Ribbon Facility that offers 3D digital mammography. When it comes to the care your family needs, you shouldn’t have to drive an hour or more away. You need trusted physicians who live and work close to you. You need care providers who get to know your family’s unique health needs. You need a hospital that works hard to make your community a healthier place to live. And if you’re looking for a new doctor, your search is over. St. Luke’s Medical Group—Sugar Land is comprised of some of the area’s most skilled and compassionate primary care physicians and specialists who are ready to help put you on a healthy path. They also allow you to make an appointment conveniently online. Just visit ApptASAP.org today. At CHI St. Luke’s Health, you’ll find a system of people who are passionate about the health of your friends and neighbors, and empower patients to live better lives. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 281-274-7500 www.houstonmethodist.org/sugarland
labor and delivery; neuroscience and spine care; oncology; and orthopedics and sports medicine • Three medical office buildings Houston Methodist Sugar Land also offers a stand-alone emergency center near Sienna Plantation and many specialized physician offices conveniently located throughout Fort Bend County, including primary care offices serving First Colony, Long Meadow Farms, Riverstone and Sienna Plantation. But what really sets Houston Methodist Sugar Land apart is its patient-centric operational philosophy, one built on a strong sense of mission and a deeply ingrained commitment to Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence – the Houston Methodist I CARE values. These values guide the staff ’s daily interactions with patients, family members and each other, as well as provide a strong foundation for their focus on personal, individualized care. This dedication to serving others – along with innovative technology, training and expertise – is recognized by the many specialized
designations
achieved
over
the years. For example, Houston Methodist Sugar Land is the only hospital in Fort Bend County to achieve Magnet Recognition® as a reflection of its nursing professionalism,
teamwork
and
superi-
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital
ority in patient care. The American Nurses
is Fort Bend County’s leading health care
Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet
That’s the same reason the people of Fort Bend choose CHI St. Luke’s Health—Sugar Land to keep their families healthy. It’s their commitment to community that makes them uniquely equipped to care for the people of this region.
provider, offering skilled, compassionate
Recognition Program® distinguishes orga-
care supported by the most advanced tech-
nizations that meet rigorous standards for
nology – all in a convenient, comfortable
nursing excellences.
Not only does the Sugar Land hospital feature a robust array of care capabilities such as women’s services, cardiovascular,
and healing environment. In addition to an outstanding staff, more Since opening in 1998, Houston Methodist
than
Sugar Land has continually expanded to
representing the full range of medical
1000
top-quality
physicians
add new facilities, services and technology
specialties — combine I CARE values
to meet the community’s changing needs.
with a level of expertise, knowledge and
Today, the hospital’s campus houses:
skill that is second to none.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
—
69
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
Over the years, Houston Methodist Sugar Land physicians have achieved many of Fort Bend County’s medical firsts, including a number of the most sophisticated surgical advancements in specialties such as cardiology and neurology. These developments have allowed Houston Methodist Sugar Land to offer state-of-the-art, life-saving procedures close to home for Fort Bend patients, reducing the impact that a hospital stay can place on friends and family members. As Fort Bend continues to grow, and health care moves forward, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will continue to grow and change, too – investing in the community’s health and well-being and ensuring that local residents have a first-class choice for medical care.
MOVING MEDICAL TIPS 1
If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in this publication to get information.
2
Call the offices of all your current physicians/dentists and tell them that you are moving. Ask for referrals they might be willing to make.
3
If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of the records of each of your family members to your new doctor.
UT Physicians 1-888-4UT-DOCS www.UTPhysicians.com The right place, the right time. - As the medical group practice of The John P. and Katherine G. McGovern School (a part of UTHealth),
4 5 6 7
If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/ dentist to make copies of pertinent records of all your family members for you to take with you. Pack these records in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency.
UT Physicians has experienced unparalleled growth over the last five years. With offices generally located solely across the street from McGovern Medical School, UT Physicians now boasts more than 200 clinical sites in and around the Greater Houston Area. UT Physicians has THREE locations that bring the world-renowned care of the Texas Medical Center to the Fort Bend community.
Through these community-based
It is extremely important that you get the immunization records for your children before you move. You cannot enroll your children in local schools without these records. You will also need certified copies of your children’s birth certificates as well as the addresses of your children’s former schools.
clinics, you will have access to the full UT
If you are a member of a healthcare HMO/PPO plan, or have a prescription drug card, be sure to notify the company of your moving plans. The insurance company should be able to provide you with a list of physicians/ healthcare facilities in the area.
Thomas Murphy, M.D., assistant dean for
Pack an emergency first aid kit to take en route to your new home. Items such as bandages, thermometer, pain killers or aspirin, antihistamine, firstaid ointment, tweezers and decongestant can come in handy.
Physicians practice of more than 1,000 physicians certified in 80 medical specialties and subspecialties.
community affairs and health policy, says that patients outside of the Texas Medical Center provide stability and long-term patient relationships. “Right care, right place, right cost – it’s a simple concept,” he says. Please come visit UT Physicians at any of their three locations: Sienna Village, Southwest, and Rosenberg.
70
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
UT Physicians at Sienna Village: Carman call 713-486-5900 or visit utphysicians.com\ Saturdays, to accommodate patients. UT Whiting, M.D., medical director of UT PhysiPhysicians at Sienna Village is located at chwc-southwest. Smoking Safety cians at Sienna Village in Missouri City, says 8810 Highway 6, Missouri City, TX 77459. Smoking is only allowed in specified area outside the PatientsHealth must&always UT Physicians Community Well- wear wrist that she chose UT Physicians for the same For more information or to schedule an purposes. reason the majority of her patients do – building. it’s appointment at UT Physicians at Sienna ness Center – Rosenberg: UT Patients Physiciansmust be acc close to home. “People like to stay in their Village, please call 713-486-1200. member when the build CHWC – Rosenberg is located at outside 5115 Telephones community – having an office near home Avenue H, Suite 701, Rosenberg, Texas and UT Physicians Community Health Wellteams&rooms. of therapists, nurses, physicians* and It’s our convenience pleasureand to access welcome you to Encompass provides that is desirTelephones are located inOur all patient Payment is open Monday – Friday, 8am -5pm. This ness Land. Center – Southwest: UT Physicians able for Rehabilitation patients,” Dr. Whiting says. “Our support members are thoroughly experienced and Health Hospital of Sugar We strive to make payment pro clinic offers family medicine, pediatrics, and CHWC – Southwest is located at 10623 Parking doctors do a good job, and spend time getting knowledgeable in rehabilitation. We are one of the We’re committed to offering the compassion, adult psychiatry. CHWC - Rosenberg has aare available Hospital personnel Bellaire Blvd, Houston, Texas arrangements. to know the patients,” Dr. Whiting says. “If a contact us ifSuite you C280, need special parking food demonstration kitchen and will leading providers of inpatient rehabilitation expertise and support patientsPlease and their families families or otherbegin responsible pa and has evening and Saturday hours!!! This patient trusts you, that’s what keeps them here offering wellness programs in and January 2017. services and maintain the highest safety need to reach their rehabilitation goals. clinic offers family medicine, pediatrics, procedures and requirements. and then they refer family and friends.” Visiting hours The all Rosenberg staff you speaksreceive English and pediatric psychiatry and adult psychiatry. cleanliness standards, to ensure
Welcome
We welcome visitors, as they are invaluable in providing
Spanish. For more information to schedule Support or Groups UT Physicians Sienna Village hasteam grownto provide Clinic hours & WednesYou’ll have aatrehabilitation you are: Mondays exceptional care. encouragement and support during your rehabilitation. an appointment at UT CHWC tremendously since opening its doors plan in days, 8am-8pm; AskPhysicians about our support groups. with a personalized treatment targeting yourTuesdays, Thursdays, and Weekday visiting hoursand are 8:00am8am-noon. to 8:00pm Weekend 2010. The clinic now has over twenty Fridays, 8am-5pm Saturdays Rosenberg, please call 713-486-1950 or visit We hope this brochure answers any questions you specific needs and goals. This comprehensive practicing providers, in sixteen unique – Southwest offers complimentary visitingCHWC hours are 8am to 8pm utphysicians.com\chwc-rosenberg. Questions or concerns have about your program givemulti-specialty you the direction, knowledge Specialties. willThis clinic tai chi, yoga, organic gardening, and stay. If you have additional Excel Urgent concerns, please let us contact know.Care We’re dedicated toquestions or c and tools toand help you reach highest level of outside provides adult pediatric primaryyour care, diabetes management classes. Join them for please If you expect visitors of those hours, Please share any www.excelurgentcare.com • 281-394-0335 cardiology, geriatrics, obstetrics and gyneTai chi on Saturdays from 10:30-11:30am. your care and look forward to helping you moveyour case mana physical, social and emotionalarecovery. case manager or nurse to make arrangements. Our your physician, cology, pediatric neurology, pediatric The Southwest staff speaks over 10 different with yourthroughout recovery. patients are scheduled forforward therapy sessions or thenew hospital We With morethe than 4,500 home administrator. starts gastroenterology, adult psychiatry and languages including English, Vietnamese, day on Chinese, weekdays and frequently on weekends, so please way population we can. quickly 2013 and an in-city pediatric psychiatry. The Sienna Village Spanish and Urdu. For more infor* The hospital provides access tosince independent physicians. make sure friends family aware ofatyour approaching schedule 40,000, Rosenberg is one location offers extended hours, until 7 p.m. mation or to and schedule an are appointment of Houston’s hottest and most desirable on Wednesdays and 8 a.m. to noon when on UT Physicians planning theirCHWC visits. - Southwest, please
New Name
Smoking Smoking is only allowed in specified area outside the building.
Same Commitment
Extended Care
Safety Patients must always wear wristbands for identification purposes. Patients must be accompanied by a staff or family member when outside the building.
Experience Matters
Telephones Telephones are located in all patient rooms.
Parking Please contact us if you need special parking arrangements. Visiting hours We welcome visitors, as they are invaluable in providing encouragement and support during your rehabilitation.
Support Groups Ask about our support groups.
Weekday visiting hours are 8:00am to 8:00pm Weekend visiting hours are 8am to 8pm
Questions or concerns
If you expect visitors outside of those hours, please contact a case manager or nurse to make arrangements. Our patients are scheduled for therapy sessions throughout the day on weekdays and frequently on weekends, so please make sure friends and family are aware of your schedule when planning their visits.
Payment We strive to make payment procedures as easy as possible. Hospital personnel are available to meet with patients, families or other responsible parties to discuss billing procedures and requirements.
Please share any questions or concerns you may have with your physician, your case manager, the department director or the hospital administrator. We are happy to assist you any way we can.
Ln. g a r Park
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Sugar Land, TX 77478
281.276.7574 • Fax 866.429.3485 encompasshealth.com/sugarlandrehab
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© and eating. Other sessions takeHealth placeCorporation: in the positive 2018:may Encompass 1371893 ENCOMPASSHEALTH.COM/SUGARLANDREHAB Sugar . d v l B environment of our state-of-the-art rehabilitation gym. Rehabilitation requires a strong commitment from each ry First Land 1325 Highway 6 ito
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
For more information on Rosenberg, visit www.rosenbergtx.gov. Encompass Health Rehab www.encompasshealth.com/ SugarlandRehab • (281) 276-7584 Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospitals nationally and in Texas have remained committed to providing a higher level of care to the communities they serve. As a JACHO certified disease specific in-patient rehabilitation hospital with medical management specializing in the care of Strokes, Amputations, Wound Care and Hip Fractures and other illnesses. We provide 3hrs of therapy 5 days a week broken up into several sessions throughout each day. Anyone 18 or up with an illness/injury will receive daily medical oversight with physician visits, care by certified rehab nurses and therapy sessions with specialized speech, occupational and physical therapists. With the 2015 acquisition of Encompass Health Home Health & Hospice, Formerly HealthSouth remains committed in our suburbs. The more than 16,000 new resi-
and fall and Rosenberg Christmas Nights
community and is excited to celebrate
dents who have made Rosenberg home since
each December.
this positive direction for our community.
2000 come from all walks of life but are all
Leadership wants people to know
seeking the same quality of life components:
But it’s certainly not all about history in
that the ownership and management of the
affordable, high-quality housing, terrific
Rosenberg. The future is brighter than ever.
company remains the same.
shopping and dining options and a busi-
Lamar Consolidated Independent School
pass Health we will not alter the excellence
ness friendly environment in which to start,
District is one of the fastest-growing
in care. Our employees pride their selves in
expand or relocate a business.
districts in the state, adding new campuses
caring for our patients in their own commu-
almost every school year. Texas State The cultural balance between Brazos Town
nity and provide highest levels that patients
Technical College opened its Rosenberg
Center and the Historic Downtown District
have come to expect.
campus in 2016 and offers an array of
respectively offers residents and visitors the
high-tech courses, including Cyber Secu-
We are excited that our name change will
opportunity to shop, dine or even live in a
rity and Advanced Robotics.
continue to help “encompass” patient
cutting edge, mixed-use development or to
As Encom-
care as our company grows in a positive
step back into time with historic buildings,
For nature lovers, Seabourne Creek Nature
an authentic soda fountain, the renowned
Park offers miles of walking, running and
Rosenberg Railroad Museum and the
biking trails, fishing at Seabourne Lake
Encompass Home Health & Hospice agen-
world’s only Black Cowboy Museum. The
and a natural wetlands pond maintained
cies in Texas are also set to transition to the
Historic Downtown District is the first
by the Texas Mater Naturalists. Seabourne
Encompass Health name. You can contact
and only state-designated Cultural Arts
Creek Sports Complex boasts state-of-
your nearest location for more information.
District in Fort Bend County. It is also a
the-art Little League fields and is in the
designated Main Street Program, which
process of expanding by adding two new
Our Sugar Land Location welcomes you to
conducts annual arts festivals each spring
Babe Ruth fields.
stop by and tour today.
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
direction.
Visit us today at
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
73
in this section major employers local chambers of commerce Houston by the numbers cost of living & map
74
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING 2018
BUSINESS &
COMMUNITY There’s an unparalleled quality of life provided by Fort Bend’s earliest planned communities such as First Colony, Pecan Grove Plantation, New Territory and Greatwood set the stage for the recent wave of economic growth being enjoyed by the county.
Newer communities still under development
hard to attract quality growth. Following are
the thriving economic development in Fort
– including Sienna Plantation, Riverstone,
profiles of some of the most successful and
Bend through its many divisions, including
Imperial Sugar Land and many others – are
effective pro-business groups in Fort Bend.
Education, Infrastructure Planning, Govern-
building on this legacy of quality growth. It’s a truism that both employers and retailers follow rooftops, and no part of the Houston region can boast more educated and affluent residents living under its rooftops than Fort
mental Relations,Community Resources,
AREA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
Business and Professional Development,
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce
Members Services.
Economic Development and Healthcare and
www.FortBendChamber.com The Fort Bend Chamber was awarded with
Bend County. Since Fort Bend began its
Located in the diverse Fort Bend County,
5-Star Accreditation by the US Chamber
transformation from a largely rural agricul-
The Fort Bend Chamber is the largest
of Commerce for its sound policies, effec-
tural county into a regional economic and
single county chamber in the Houston
tive organizational procedures, and positive
cultural powerhouse several decades ago,
region and serves as the advocate for busi-
impact on the community. Only about 1% of
a number of chambers of commerce and
ness excellence in Fort Bend County. The
the 7,077 chambers in the United States earn
economic development groups have worked
Chamber creates, enhances and promotes
this stringent accreditation. The Chamber’s
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
75
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
prestigious Fort Bend Leadership Forum
FORT BEND MAJOR EMPLOYERS
program produces graduates who serve in leadership positions throughout the county.
Fluor Enterprises, Inc.*
2,800
Marriott-Sugar Land Town Square
Schlumberger*
2,300
Houston Sigma Technology
150
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital
2,100
Crown Cork & Seal Co/Crown Holdings*
170
United Healthcare/ United Health Group
1,239
Money Management International
138
Nalco Champion, an Ecolab Company*
546
Icon Clinical Research
145
Tramontina USA, Inc.
800
Trafficware
150
First Data Telecheck
500
Unique Industrial Product Co.
143
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land
497
The Crescent
132
Noble Drilling Services, Inc.
477
Aetna*
109
Baker Hughes*
399
Consentino
140
around the bend” continues to be the motto
St. Luke’s Hospital Sugar Land
390
University of Houston
130
instrumental role in shaping Fort Bend as one
Texas Instruments*
368
Sugar Land Center
Yokogawa Corp of America
330
KW Industries, Inc.
123
E. E. Reed Construction
240
CVR Energy
120
Fairfield Nodal
220
Kelsey-Seybold Clinic
120
Sunoco Logistics Partners LP 370
Fiserv Output Solutions
122
Accredo Packaging, Inc.
250
De Nora Water Technologies
106
Healix, Inc.
250
SABIC Technology Center*
94
HealthSouth Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital
220
Team Industrial, Inc.
94
Applied Optoelectronics, Inc.
257
Mylan Institutional, Inc./Mylan
90
Minute Maid/Coca-Cola*
176
Amerex Brokers, LLC
88
Pharmedium Services, LLC
315
Professional Golf Ball SVC
87
CSM Bakery Products
225
Amica Insurance
86
Ventyx, an ABB Company
215
Boise Cascade
82
OptumRx Health
140
Yang Ming Marine Transport
82
Industrial Information Resources
122
Prime Communications
77
Bluebonnet Nutrition Nutritional
175
Analytical Sensors &
HCSS
186
Instruments Ltd. (ASI)
76
120
Excellence for Nonprofits program builds organizational effectiveness within the county’s philanthropic community. High school students have the unique opportunity to experience how volunteerism and philanthropy coexist to serve the community in the Chamber’s Youth in Philanthropy program. Fort Bend Volunteers provid a countywide calendar of events for the community to serve. The Young Professionals Division ensures that the Chamber is delivering value to the future leaders of Fort Bend County.
Health
Care
With the implementation of their Diversity Action Team and the Get Your Business on the Map Google Partnership, “Success if just of the Fort Bend Chamber that plays an of the fastest-growing counties in the United
127
States, and one of the nation’s top 20 counties for economic and population growth. FortBendChamberVotes.com The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Team advocates and intervenes on behalf of the membership on local, state and federal issues affecting job creation, economic development and the overall vitality of the Fort Bend County region. A key component of this advocacy is www.FortBendChamberVotes.com. The goal of this site is to provide voter resources, information on legislative issues and news, and to serve as a vehicle for grassroots participation and connection to elected officials.
AREA ASSOCIATIONS City of Sugar Land Economic Development Office www.sugarlandecodev.com The City of Sugar Land is an award-win-
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
ning community ideally located just 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston. Sugar Land has achieved its sustainable,
76
– ISSUE 2
strong local economy through an aggressive, focused economic development program
that creates new wealth and jobs. As a
Chamber provides visitors and new resi-
to help businesses understand and then act
regional employment center, with over 25
dents with resources that highlight the many
upon the tremendous advantages and oppor-
million square feet of commercial space, the
great amenities and attractions in Fort Bend
tunities of relocating or expanding their
City is home to high-profile corporations
County. Under the Chamber’s banner, the
commercial operations in Fort Bend.
including Minute Maid, UnitedHealthcare,
Farmers Market at Imperial operates year
Texas Instruments, Schlumberger, Fluor
round and is the largest certified farmers
Corporation, Noble Drilling, Tramontina
market in Texas. The Sugar Land Wine &
USA, First Data/TeleCheck, Nalco Cham-
Food Affair attracts about 10,000 wine and
pion and Bechtel EO.
food aficionados to Fort Bend each year, making it one of the largest such events in
Sugar Land has also uniquely positioned itself
the nation. The Chamber markets the coun-
as a hub for premium shopping, dining and
ty’s ever-growing collections of restaurants,
entertainment. Venues such as the Houston
hotels and attractions to local, regional and
Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land,
national audiences as well as prospective visi-
Constellation Field, the future Smart Finan-
tors and event convention planners.
cial Centre at Sugar Land live entertainment venue, the Sugar Land Heritage Museum and the Sugar Land Visitors Center at Imperial Market will further establish the community as a cultural and historical destination.
Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council www.fortbendcounty.org
The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com The Grand Parkway Association is a nonprofit state transportation corporation authorized by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in 1984 to facilitate the development of the Grand Parkway, Houston’s third outer highway loop. The Association operates on funds received from Fort Bend, Harris, Chambers, Galveston and Brazoria counties, as well as from TxDOT and the Metropolitan Transit Authority. It is governed by a seven-member board of directors
The Greater Fort Bend Economic Develop-
appointed by the Texas Transportation
ment Council is a public-private partnership
Commission. The first segment of the
established in 1986 to promote economic
Grand Parkway opened in Fort Bend
vitality and ensure quality development in
County, connecting U.S. 59 South to I-10
Through its Fort Bend Convention and
Fort Bend County. It provides a wide array
West. The Grand Parkway is now open
Visitors Services division, the Fort Bend
of information and free services designed
all the way to U.S. 59 North as part of the
Fort Bend Convention & Visitors Services www.fortbendchamber.com/visitors
LOOKING FOR HOMES JUST GOT EASIER…
Search more than 8 million properties
Ask Your REALTOR®
HOMES And RENTALS HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
77
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
vision to create a 180-mile outer loop to
HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house here, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help figure out the rest. If you made $53,759 in Denver, for example, your salary could decrease to $41,995 in Houston - and you’d still maintain the same standard of living. See the table below for the results from a sampling of other cities.
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
serve transportation needs in the Greater Houston area. Stafford Economic Development Corporation www.staffordtxedc.com The City of Stafford has been promoting economic development for more than 40 years. It was the first municipality in Fort Bend County to do so, resulting in one of the strongest and most diverse economies in Texas. The Stafford Economic Development Corporation was created in 1999
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
to promote and expand commerce and to finance projects enhancing economic
Phoenix
61,439
New York City
25,910
development. Two of its most noteworthy
Detroit
61,826
Los Angeles
41,996
a performing arts theater and convention
Austin
61,375
Chicago
50,705
San Francisco
33,401
Las Vegas
54,455
“Main Street.”
Boston
40,832
Portland
45,498
Visit Sugar Land
Denver
53,759
St. Louis
63,697
Miami
52,467
Raleigh
65,105
Pittsburgh
59,757
Cincinnati
64,818
Dallas
61,311
Charleston
58,336
accomplishments include Stafford Centre, center, and the major improvements and amenities on U.S. Highway 90-A, Stafford’s
www.VisitSugarLandTX.com Sugar Land’s tourism program was established in 2011 when the Sugar Land City Council approved a 5-Year Strategic Roadmap for Economic Development which included the establishment of a Tourism Program intended to generate overnight visitation to Sugar Land by attracting meetings, events and leisure travelers to the City. The mission of Visit Sugar Land Convention & Visitor Services is to increase the number of visitors and their length of stay in Sugar Land in support of retail, service and hotel businesses and to ensure the success of Sugar Land’s existing attractions including Sugar Land Town Square, Constellation Field, the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land and the new state-of-the-art live entertainment venue – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land.
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
– ISSUE 2
FORT
BEND
®
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce exists to keep you informed, involved, and an integral part of the Fort Bend County region. As a catalyst for economic ingenuity and prosperity, a robust tourism market, and the well-being of our community, we are committed to maintaining and improving the excellence and superior quality of life we enjoy in Fort Bend County. Our chamber events and programs deliver insightful, relevant and beneficial access to information and connections that support our thriving
“Membership in the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is not only a benefit to Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, but also to me as an individual.” Malisha Patel Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Senior Vice President and CEO
“I am constantly in awe of the quality and caliber of leaders that not only serve in our community but are developed, nurtured and mentored by the Chamber.” Rick Conley Fluor Corporation Director - Real Estate
“Joining the Fort Bend Chamber has been one of the best investments I have made as I have been able to utilize my membership to help grow my business.” Michael Redix State Farm Agent Join the more than 1,000 businesses and organizations; small and large, who embrace our mission to serve as the advocate for business excellence in Fort Bend County. As the largest single county chamber in the Houston region, our members recognize that “SUCCESS IS JUST AROUND THE BEND,” and enjoy the measurable benefits, access and influence created by our chamber’s support within our dynamic business climate. As the champion for economic prosperity, The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is your reliable resource for our county.
Stacy Bynes Membership Director 281-566-2161 | stacy@fortbendcc.org HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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in this section attractions and family fun arts and culture dining & shopping sports and golf year round events
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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LEISURE & RECREATION
Fort Bend County works hard-that’s how it got to be one of the most prosperous and fastest-growing counties in the nation. But Fort Bend also know how to relax and have fun whether it’s celebrating tradition dating back more than a century, or enjoying new events.
Life is too short to just work; you gotta
The website includes a visitor’s guide, inter-
play too. And in vibrant Houston, fun
active maps, coupons and discounts, and
activities abound, with annual events such
itinerary ideas. One of its most popular
as the world’s largest rodeo, the nation’s
features is the Houston CityPass, which
largest renaissance festival and the coun-
provides admission to 5 of Houston’s top
try’s quirkiest event, the art car parade. The
attractions at a substantial discount!
city’s diverse personality shines through with buoyant events like the Chinese New Year, Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth and
Fort Bend County works hard – that’s how it
minds of children who come to explore, imagine and engage. Housed in a repurposed building within the historic Imperial Sugar factory, the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center is patterned after the Children’s Museum of Houston, rated America’s No. 1 children’s museum. Visit www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org.
got to be one of the most prosperous and fast-
Greater Houston Convention and Visi-
Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center
The Smart Financial Centre is the one of the newest state of the art venues in the country. The venue opened in 2017 with multiple performances by Jerry Seinfeld. The Smart Financial Centre box office is located at 18111 Lexington Boulevard in Sugar Land, TX. The theater has controllable seating that will allow it to expand from 3,000 to 6,400 seats depending upon the desired intimacy of the show. Some of the other Smart Financial Centre tickets include acts like Don Henley, Reba McEntire, The Lumineers, and Steve Martin. Visit
tors Bureau.
is being praised for opening the curious
www.smartfinancial.net.
GLBT Pride Celebration. It’s often said that Houston doesn’t cherish its history, but that’s not the case with traditions like the 80-year-old Azalea Trail and numerous historic home tours. Plus, Houston’s rich
est-growing counties in the nation. But Fort Bend also knows how to relax and have fun – whether it’s celebrating traditions dating back more than a century, or enjoying new events showcasing the county’s many new attractions and diverse ethnic traditions. Fort Bend
arts, theatre and restaurant scenes offer
is a place where a 20,000-acre working ranch
exciting experiences every day.
with historic homes and costumed actors
One of the best websites for finding out about special events in Houston is www. visithouston.com, the official site of the
thrives side-by-side with one of the nation’s largest Hindu temples. That’s today’s Fort Bend – and it’s incredible.
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
FORT BE N D P A R K S BRAZOS RIVER PARK
intersection.
The park facilities include a
play structure for children from 2 to 12, a
The Brazos River flows through Sugar Land along a 9-mile corridor. The City has acquired approximately 1200 acres of land along the banks of the river. Ultimately, the City hopes to own almost 3600 acres for parks, open space, and conservation along the corridor. The main entrance to Brazos River Park is located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 59 at the Brazos River. The park is an initial phase of development and include trails, restrooms, and picnic tables with grills.
community meeting room for 65 people,
meeting room which can accommodate
picnic pavilion, restrooms, grills, benches,
40 people, a covered picnic pavilion with a
picnic tables, .40 miles of trails, fishing pier,
concession stand, restrooms, and parking
concession stand, playground, 10 soccer fields,
for over 300 vehicles. The three-mile Oyster
five-acre pond and 500 car parking lot. The
Creek Trail is accessible from Lost Creek
pond is stocked with bass, crappie and catfish.
Park. a .9-mile lighted loop trail circles the
The Brazos River Park will be developed over many years. Multiple access points along the river will be developed and will be identified as a sub-park within the larger Brazos River Park. The park sites will provide access to trails, play areas, and the river as well as providing restrooms, and picnic facilities. The sub-parks will be connected along the corridor by trails and canoe access.
FIRST COLONY PARK This 22-acre park is the site of a 3,000 square
park site. A BMX track offering youngsters and teens another way to stay active outdoors can be found at Lost Creek Park.
foot conference center. This park contains seven lighted and two unlighted baseball
This three-mile hike and bike trail is acces-
fields, batting cages, three concession stands,
sible from Lexington Blvd., Dulles Ave., and
a playground, drinking fountains, grills,
Hwy 6. In addition to the Greenbelt trail, a
benches, 368 parking spaces, restrooms,
water feature with rock lined falls and a pond
picnic tables and picnic pavilion.
is constructed near the Hwy 6 entrance, adjacent to Oyster Creek. Emergency call
IMPERIAL PARK & DISC GOLF COURSE
boxes exist along Oyster Creek Trail. This facility includes: 78 parking spaces, 5 picnic tables, drinking fountain, grills, benches and public art elements. Restroom facilities are available and a stage/amphitheater covering
CITY PARK
for special events. The stage area of the park
Park facilities include a pool, five lighted baseball fields, a lighted and covered skate park pavilion, benches and bike racks, four lighted tennis courts, a playground, batting cages, drinking fountain, grills, benches, picnic tables, restrooms, a sand volleyball area, horseshoe pits, covered picnic shelter, concession stands and meeting room. The pool is 25 yards long, ranges 3-12 feet in depth and has two 1-meter diving boards.
can be reserved for private functions.
DUHACSEK PARK This 50-acre park site was donated to the city by the late Walter and Virginia Duhacsek. This homestead is filled with huge handgrafted pecan trees. It holds the third largest pecan tree in Texas. This facility is available for reservations for groups up to 40 people. Located at the intersection of Voss Road and Old Richmond Road. The facility consists of 60 parking spaces, a large pavilion with picnic tables and two restrooms.
SUGAR LAND MEMORIAL PARK The 420-acre park is located along the Brazos River between U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard with the park entry Located adjacent to the Imperial Park
at the intersection of Commonwealth and
Recreation Center, this 44-acre park is the
University Boulevards. Included in the first
home of the Sugar Land Girls Softball Asso-
phase are two and a half miles of 8-foot
ciation. The park facilities include parking,
wide granite gravel walking/jogging/biking
nine softball fields, batting cages a nine-hole
trails, 2 picnic pavilions, restroom buildings,
disc golf course, playground, picnic area,
parking areas, playground, dog park, Justin
drinking fountains and restrooms. Disc golf
P. Brindley mountain bike trail, open space
is similar to traditional golf. Instead of a ball
for sports activities and a lake. The lake is
and clubs, however, players use a disc, or
stocked with Large Mouth Bass, Bluegill
Frisbee. The nine-hole course located in the
and Channel Catfish. Visitors may fish in
southern, undeveloped portion of the park
the lake with a valid fishing license. Consult
winds through existing trees. Golfers must
your local tackle shop or Texas Parks and
bring their own discs.
Wildlife for license information and bag and size limits. The park is home to the Veterans
LOST CREEK PARK
Memorial Remembrance Tower.
This is
ELDRIDGE PARK
This 21-acre park includes seven soccer fields
a unique and iconic feature of the park. It
This 43-acre community park is located on Eldridge Road near the West Airport
(6 youth- 4 lighted, 1 adult- not lighted, 2 practice fields) for youth and adults, a large
includes the names of Sugar Land soldiers
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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killed while in active duty.
F ORT B E N D C O U N TY & SURROUNDING A REA A TTRA CT I ONS Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens www.mfah.org/visit/bayou-bend-collectionand-gardens Bayou Bend, the magnificent home of Miss Ima Hogg, is best known for her superb collection of American decorative arts, innovative architecture, and breathtaking gardens. The heavily wooded 14 acres (5.7 ha) along Buffalo Bayou include eight formal gardens. Three of the gardens are named for a statue of a goddess or muse displayed in the garden, Clio, Diana and Euturpe. Brazos Bend State Park www.brazosbend.org
galleries carry a wide array of unique items. The garden shop, with plants and flowers grown by residents, rivals the best nurseries anywhere. Ditto for the very popular café. Group tours are available. Central Green www.willowforkdrainagedistrict.com/ central-green Free outdoor movies, concerts and special events such as an annual children’s festival are offered year-round at this half-acre multipurpose park, surrounded by lakes and restaurants in LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. Developed by the Willow Fork Drainage District, Central Green has an outdoor stage, large shady oaks, and outdoor seating around a grassy lawn. Constellation Field/Sugar Land Skeeters www.sugarlandskeeters.com
historic downtown Richmond is located in the 1882 McFarlane House – rumored to be haunted! Exhibits trace more than 100 years of history, including the original “Old 300” settlers who received Mexican land grants through Stephen F. Austin. The surrounding Richmond Historical District includes more stately homes, the 1908 county courthouse, and Morton Cemetery-the resting place of many Fort Bend pioneers. Fort Bend Theatre www.fortbendtheatre.com Founded in 1989, this theatre offers family friendly productions throughout the year on weekends. The troupe also performs children’s plays for schools and preschools. Summer musical theatre camps are another popular offering. George Ranch Historical Park www.georgeranch.org
Root for Sugar Land’s home team as it plays independent professional minor league baseball in this thoroughly modern stadium. Discovery Green www.discoverygreen.com
Little Blue Heron at Brazos Bend State Park, Texas
This 5,000-acre natural gem features scenic terrain carved by the Brazos River. A nature center is the best place for visitors of all ages to begin their explorations. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking, birding and much more. Located in the park, the Fort Bend Challenger Center is a living memorial to the seven Challenger astronauts who lost their lives in 1986. Summer programs, events and classes are available. Brookwood Community www.brookwoodcommunity.org Located in Brookshire, just west of Katy, this is a non-profit residential facility and vocational program for adults with disabilities. Brookwood is known for the wonderful ceramics and other gift items made by its residents, and its expansive gift shops and art
Since it opened in 2008, this 12-acre downtown park has been a hit with Houstonians who enjoy its restaurants, public art displays, dog parks, lakes, and seasonal events including the holiday ice rink. More than 1.2 million visitors come to more than 600 events at Discovery Green each year, including movies in the park, concerts and fitness programs. Farmer’s Market at Imperial Sugar Land www.imperialsugarland.com/ farmersmarket
Photo courtesy of George Ranch
Located on a 20,000-acre working ranch, this 460-acre living history park includes historic homes, costumed interpreters and
Farmers, artists, vendors and performers host one of the liveliest and most varied markets in the Houston region. It happens every Saturday from 9-1, rain or shine.
livestock. Tracing history that began in
Fort Bend County Museum www.fortbendmuseum.org
George Memorial Library www.fortbend.lib.tx.us
Proclaimed as one of the best showcases of local history in Texas, this museum in
The main library in the Fort Bend County Libraries System, this Richmond facility
1824, it is open daily. Special events such as the Texian Market Days Festival and Spring Break activities are offered year round.
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
Photo courtesy of Houston Museum of Natural Science at Fort Bend
Aerial view of Hermann Park
includes an expansive Genealogy and Local History Department that focuses on the southeastern United States. Its archives include material on the South, the Civil War, federal censuses and genealogy. George Observatory www.hmns.org Enjoy a front seat to the stars in this observatory in Brazos Bend State Park. A satellite of the Houston Museum of Natural Science, it offers precise views of deep space with a recently restored 36-inch telescope.
center of town. Visitors can explore nature by walking on five miles of trails, take classes and visit the Discovery Room and the Nature Shop at the Nature Shop. Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land www.hmns.org Housed in the preserved historic Central State Farm building – formerly a prison dormitory – this museum includes five permanent exhibit halls with over 1.5 million objects. Special exhibits bring in
Rosenberg Railroad Museum www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org With indoor and outdoor exhibits including the 1879 Quebec railcar and the 1972 Mopac caboose, this museum traces 160 years of railroad history that’s been vital to Fort Bend. More highlights include model trains, the Garden Railroad and the Whistle Stop Gift Shop. Group tours, special events and private events are held year round. Sugar Land Auditorium www.slcaf.org
Hermann Park www.hermannpark.org
some of the best museum offerings from
The last remaining public building from the
across the U.S. to Fort Bend.
original company-owned town of Sugar
Arguably Houston’s “Central Park,” this 445-acre park wedged between the Museum District and Medical Center celebrated its 100th birthday in 2014 with a major facelift and the new McGovern Centennial Gardens, featuring 15 acres of rose gardens, an interactive family garden, a 30-foot garden mount, and a sculpture promenade. Hermann Park is also home to the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Miller Outdoor Theater, a Japanese Garden, train and pedal boats, and a golf course.
Houston Zoo
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center www.houstonarboretum.org Nestled along the western edge of Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and the opportunity to experience the natural world – all in the
84
Land, this 1918 auditorium was built for the newly established school district. It
www.houstonzoo.org
showed movies and plays, and held dances
Aiming to be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife, The Houston Zoo cares for over 6,000 animals, even educating some. Each year, over 2 million guests are enchanted, educated, and inspired as they experience the incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. With exemplary animal care in mind, the Zoo provides engaging animal experiences for visitors in multiple seasonal and permanent attractions, like holiday Zoo Lights and the new Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit. The Houston Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2018
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on the rooftop. Recently restored to its original splendor, the 394-seat auditorium is available for rental. Sugar Land Heritage Foundation & Museum www.slheritage.org This museum is located in an interim space at Imperial Sugar Land – next to the iconic 1925 Char House – until its new museum space opens in Imperial Sugar Land in early 2017. The SLHF was founded in 2008 with the mission of preserving the vast treasure trove of historic artifacts, documents and photos from the Imperial Sugar refinery, which was in continual operation from the mid 1800s until 2003.
Sugar Land Ice & Sports Center www.sugarlandice.com
a popular gathering spot for residents to enjoy year round festivals and special events. Mcgovern Centennial Gardens & Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion www.hermannpark.org
The only dual rink facility in the Houston
The McGovern Centennial Gardens is home to a diverse collection of gardens including an arid garden, a rose garden, a woodland garden, an interactive family garden, and more. You can get a bird’s-eye view of it all by walking the spiral path to the top of a 30-foot mount.
region, it offers public skating and is home
Moody Gardens
to the Sugar Land Imperials 3HL ice hockey
www.moodygardens.org
team. During the holidays, the Nutcracker on Ice musical is performed. Sugar Land Town Square www.sugarlandtownsquare.com A new pedestrian-oriented downtown for Fort Bend County, this 32-acre “Main Street” development includes shopping, dining, office space and a hotel. The central plaza is
A tropical destination for families and groups. Explore the all new Rainforests of the World along within the Aquarium Pyramid®, the Discovery Museum & the action of the IMAX® 3D, 4D or Ridefilm theaters. Cruise aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, tee off at the new Moody Gardens Golf Course and relax at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center for an ideal getaway.
San Jacinto Monument & Museum www.sanjacinto-museum.org Site of the battle that won Texas independence from Mexico. The world’s largest masonry structure invites visitors to learn about events that shaped Texas history. Space Center Houston www.spacecenter.org Space Center Houston, a $70-million, 183,000 square-foot entertainment and educational complex designed by Disney Imagineering, offers hands-on, space-related experiences to visitors. In addition to a full-size reproduction of the space shuttle, guests can use computer trainers to perform operations similar to the ones the astronauts used to launch a satellite or land a shuttle. NASA scientists and astronauts give briefings about current activities, visitors observe scientists and mission specialists at work and in training via live video hookups. The theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature space flight films.
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SPORTS
& GOLF
Fort Bend County offers a wide variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone: couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scenes. With year-round mild temperatures, getting up and getting out has become a way of life.
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PROFESSIONAL SPORT TEAMS The Houston Texans www.houstontexans.com Football is huge in Texas and the Texans are huge in Houston. In their 16th season, this NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012 and 2015 AFC South Division Champions. Head coach Bill O’Brien and owner Bob McNair have put together an exciting roster that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and new up-and-comers, like Deshaun Watson. Sunday football is celebrated in NRG
Photos Courtesy of the Houston Texans
stadium cheering on the team, tailgating with friends in the parking lot before and after the game, at many sports bars around town, or in front of your own television. Go Texans!
The Houston Astros www.astros.com Part of the West Division of Major League Baseball’s American League, the
Houston Astros are on a roll. Currently the winningest team in baseball, the team and its fans are having a lot of fun. Playing in Minute Maid Park, one of the country’s few stadiums with a retractable roof, the team serves up entertaining baseball action at home about 80 times over the course of the season. Fans enjoy gourmet hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex fare and many other delectable choices while
enjoying the game. Around the park, many restaurants, clubs and music venues hop, especially on game day.
The Houston Rockets www.houstonrockets.com The Houston Rockets are the city’s professional National Basketball Association
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internationally. The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass
Stadium,
an
architecturally
acclaimed venue, located east of downtown
GOLF Winters in Houston are mild and temperate, with the average high in January (the coldest month) at 62.9°F and the average low at 43.2°F. There are over 200 days of sunshine, so Houston is a golfer’s paradise. And there are plenty of places to play in West Houston. A wide range of municPhotos Courtesy of the Houston Rockets-Noah Graham NBAE/Getty Images
ipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and
team playing in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. Two-time world basketball champions, the Rockets are regular challengers in playoff action and always provide exciting end-to-end action in the Toyota Center. Many star players have passed through the team’s roster over its almost-fifty-year history and now James Hardin and the rest have launched the Rockets back into competitive contention.
The Houston Dynamo www.houstondynamo.com
challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack
Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Houston’s Major League Soccer Team. The team name is reflective, in part, of Houston: an energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, fans have lots to cheer about as this team continues to rank well both at home and
Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Fazio. Or watch the professionals grip it and rip it at the nearby Shell Houston Open. In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA professionals and First Tee Programs are offered throughout the greater Houston area.
GOLF | TENNIS | FITNESS | POOL | DINING
It Just Keeps Getting Better
JOIN NOW
and take part in the reinvention of Sugar Creek Country Club CALL TODAY TO INQUIRE ABOUT OUR LIMITED AND TIME SENSITIVE MEMBERSHIP INCENTIVES
After renovating all 27 holes of golf, Bistro 72 Renovations, adding our Hickory Stick Bar, Grill and Patio, renovating the pool area, banquet facilities and locker rooms, it is time to begin Phase 2! Our next $2 Million investment includes a new fitness center, refurbished tennis complex, adding a “Kids’ Quarters” and installing Better Billy Bunker System on the final 18 holes.
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PUBLIC Columbia Lakes Resort & Conference Center
979-345-515
www.columbialakesgolf.com
The Golf Club at Cinco Ranch
281-395-4653
www. golfclubatcincoranch.com
Greatwood Golf Club
281-343-9999
www. greatwoodgolf.com
Meadowbrook Farms
281-693-4653
www. meadowbrookfarmsgolfclub.com
Quail Valley Golf Course
281-403-5900
www. golfquailvalley.com
River Pointe Golf Club
281-343-9995
www. riverpointegolf.com
Sienna Plantation Golf Club
281-778-4653
www. siennagolf.com
Brae Burn Country Club
713-774-8788
www. braeburncc.com
The Club at Falcon Point
281-392-7888
www. clubcorp.com
Black Hawk Country Club
281-494-4244
www. bhawkcc.com
Pecan Grove Golf Course
281-342-9940
www. pecangrovecc.com
Riverbend Country Club
281-491-2500
www. riverbendcountryclub.org
Shadow Hawk Golf Club
281-494-3533
www. shadowhawkgolfclub.com
Sugar Creek Country Club
281-494-9135
www. thesugarcreek.com
PRIVATE
Sweetwater Country Club
281-980-4653
www. sweetwatercc.com
Weston Lakes Country Club
281-346-1228
www. westonlakes.net
Westwood Golf Club
713-774-3011
www. wwgolfclub.com
Willow Fork Country Club
281-579-6611
www. willowforkclub.com
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The theater district is an impressive cultural and entertainment center; features nine world renowned performing arts organizations, and many smaller ones, in four venues – Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.
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Photo courtesy of Hobby Center For The Performing Arts
ARTS, CULTURE s n o i t c a r t & At
T HE AT ER D IS TR IC T Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org One of America’s leading not-for-profit theatres calls the Houston Theater District Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing in productions of the classics, modern plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces more performances than all other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings first-class entertainment and cultural enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series. Houston Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environment, Houston Grand Opera entertains with their innovative programs, community events and educational projects. Houston Grand Opera has a solid reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 56 world premieres and seven American premieres since 1973. Stop in and visit and see why Houston Grand Opera has toured extensively, including trips to Europe and Asia, and
is the only opera company to have won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards. Houston Symphony 615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org The Houston Symphony’s mission is to “inspire and engage a large diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.” By 2025, the Houston Symphony aims to be one of America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestras. Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually. Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com Founded in 1975 and has been opening doors for locals of all ages to engage in the performing arts. They offer classes for children and adults and hold performances by both local authors and established writers. Stages Repertory Theatre 3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in the region that offers year-round employment
for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres. Society for FINE the Performing Arts www.spahouston.org The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities. Wortham Theater Center 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.
HOUSTON BALLET 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 • www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as contemporary works. This company attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy whose instruction levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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M U S E U M DIS TR IC T The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com
Museum of Houston will not leave anyone
Holocaust, remembering the 6 million
bored. For nearly 30 years, the place for fami-
Jews and other innocent victims and
lies to play, laugh, learn and grow.
honoring the survivors’ legacy. The Holo-
Otherwise known as the “Garage Mahal”, The Art Car Museum is dedicated to contemporary art. It is an exhibition forum for local, national and international arts with an emphasis on art cars, other fine arts and artists that rarely, if ever, are acknowledged by other cultural institutions. Most popular to Houstonians is the annual Art Car Parade.
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is proud to educate the public and preserve and promote the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America’s Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present. Here, you can find workshops, youth outreach programs and exhibits about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service. Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org
caust Museum Houston has a permanent exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A
5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org The
Contemporary
Arts
Museum
Community Remembers,” as well as other pieces of history. of
Houston is an institution dedicated to
The Menil Collection
presenting the best and most exciting inter-
1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006
national, national and regional art. Patrons
www.menil.org
of every age will appreciate the collections of work and dynamic exhibitions on display.
The Menil Collection houses both perma-
CAMH also offers special programs and
nent
collection
and
welcomes
special
educational opportunities. Admission is Free.
exhibitions. Making art accessible to all is vital to their mission, so no admission fee
The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org The Health Museum is Houston’s most interactive science learning center and a member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind in the country. Popular exhibits include: DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion and the McGovern 4D Theater.
is charged and all public programs are free. They hope to educate and inspire by being readily accessible to future generations. The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents its exceptional exhibitions and installations to Houston residents and visitors alike. The Museum has numerous
A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store, Mexican village, puppet show and an infant play area are all under one roof. The fun-filled hands on experience at the Children’s
The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org As one of the most heavily attended museums in the United States, the Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) seeks to enhance knowledge and delight in natural science and related subjects. It houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permanent exhibit areas that examine astronomy, space science, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and minerals, Texas wildlife and more. Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org
Photos Courtesy of Children’s Museum
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The Holocaust Museum Houston is dedicated to educating people about the
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collections that fill the galleries year-round embracing every era of history from across the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou Bend Collection not too far away. From 2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a magnificent two new buildings. Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg. www.blafferartmuseum.org Blaffer Art Museum helps the community to engage in contemporary art through exhibitions, publications and public programs. This art museum is free, and open to the public in an effort to promote participation in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.
Delicious
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS
DINING SCENE The Fort Bend area attracts many diners seeking culinary delights locally and from around the world. Here’s a list of restaurants that are members of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce:
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Aling’s Chinese Cuisine 15425 SW Freeway, Sugar Land, 77478
Big 6 Bar B Que 9907 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, Texas 77498
Brookstreet Barbecue 1418 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land, 77478
Avenida Brazil Churrascaria Steakhouse 12000 SW Freeway Meadows Place, 77477
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse 2231 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478
Bellagreen 15903 City Walk, Sugar Land, 77479
Bombay Pizza Express 636 Hwy 6 Suite #900, Sugar Land, 77478
Brookwood Community 1752 FM 1489 Brookshire, 77423 Buffalo Wild Wings - Sugar Land 1401 Highway 6 Bldg. B Sugar Land, 77478 Carmengio’s has 2 locations: 7850 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite 550 Richmond, 77406 1833 Williams Way, Suite 2100 Richmond, 77469 Churrascos 1520 Lake Pointe Pkwy, Suite 500 Sugar Land, 77478 Chuy’s 320 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478 La Cocina Mexican Restaurant 2140 FM 1092 Missouri City, 77459 La Escondida Mexican Grill 7270 Highway 6, Suite 500 Missouri City, 77459 López Mexican Restaurant 7227 W. Grand Parkway S Richmond, 77407
7850 W. GRAND PARKWAY S. SUITE 550 RICHMOND TX 77407
832.600.0412
COMING SOON
Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill 716 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478 Fish City Grill 15980 City Walk, , Sugar Land, 77479 Freebirds World Burrito 15285 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, 77478 Fuzzy’s Taco Shop 4875 Highway 6, Missouri City, 77459 Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen 12330 Southwest Freeway, Stafford, 77477
Y CARMENGIOS CUCINA ITALIANA Z 1833 WILLIAMS WAY SUITE 2100 RICHMOND TX 77469
Italian Maid Café 6450 Cross Creek Bend Ln, Fulshear, 77441
NOW FEATURING
Jason’s Deli 15275 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, 77478 Jersey Mike’s Subs 520 Highway 6, Suite100 Sugar Land, 77478 Jimmy John’s 2276 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land, 77479
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Kelley’s Country Cookin’ 11555 West Airport Meadows Place, 77477
P.F. Chang’s China Bistro 2120 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land, 77479
Sub Zero Ice Cream 15810 Southwest Fwy #300 Sugar Land, 77469
La Escondida Mexican Grill 7270 Highway 6, Suite 500 Missouri City, 77459
Panera Bread 1928 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478
Texian Brewing Company 1125 FM 359, Richmond, 77406
Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza (2 locations to serve you)
Thai Cottage II 4723 Sweetwater Blvd. Sugar Land, 77479
La Cocina Mexican Restaurant 515 FM 359, Suite 100, Richmond, 77469 La Madeleine Country French Cafe 2675 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land, 77479 Longhorn Steakhouse 16746 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, 77479 Louisiana Fried Chicken 7119 FM 1464 Rd. Ste 360 Richmond, 77407 Malawi’s Pizza 8731 Highway 6, Ste.100 Missouri City, 77459 Mama Fu’s Asian House 13513 University Blvd Suite 200, Sugar Land, 77479 Nothing Bundt Cakes 1531 Highway 6, Suite 125 Sugar Land, 77478
11/6/2018
Pepperoni’s 12807 Royal Dr. Suite 106 Stafford, 77477 Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 2115 Town Square Place Sugar Land, 77479 Piada Italian Street Food 1930 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478
The Bombay Palace, Indian Grill & Bar 15295 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, 77478 The Swinging Door 3818 FM 359, Richmond, 77406 The Witt Pit 2516 1st St., Rosenberg , 77471
Potbelly Sandwich Shops 1815 Hwy 6 S, Sugar Land, 77478
Veritas Steak & Seafood 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500 Sugar Land , 77478
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers 1529 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478
Wings-N-Things 3375 Hwy 6 , Sugar Land, 77014
Sleek Chocolatier and Cafe 636 Highway 6, Suite 500 Sugar Land, 77478 Spring Creek Barbeque 4895 Highway 6, Missouri City, 77459
magazine-ad-update1.jpg
Willie’s Grill & Icehouse #6 945 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478 ZNG Enterprises 3707 South Main, Stafford, 77477 Zoes Kitchen 2260 Lone Star Dr Sugar Land, 77479
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SHOPPING
Y E A R ROUND EV ENTS Fort Bend Museum Events
Brazos Town Center
www.fortbendmuseum.org
Sugar Land Skeeters www.sugarlandskeeters.com
Reading Rd & Us-59, Rosenberg, 77471 Colony Square 16762 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, 77479 First Colony Mall 16535 Southwest Freeway, Suite 1 Sugar Land, 77479
The museum offers many popular annual events, including the Children’s Day Festival in March, Texian Market Days in October, and Candlelight Tours of the historic Moore Home in December. Fulshear Events & Festivals www.fulsheartexas.gov
First Colony Marketplace 3350 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478 Fort Bend Town Center SWC Fort Bend Pkwy. & Hwy. 6 Missouri City, 77459 Fountains on the Lake 12520 Fountain Lake Cir. Stafford, 77477 Highland Square 3219 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478 Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir. Katy, 77494 LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, 77494 Lake Pointe Town Center U.S. 59 at Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479 Missouri City Shopping Center
Fulshear hosts several popular events throughout the year; we encourage you to check the City website, Facebook page, and the Chamber website (for Shamrock Shindig, Freedom Fest, and Festival of Lights), for updates and details as the events draw near. We look forward to seeing you! The next event will be the 10th Annual City of Fulshear St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Shindig on Saturday, March 17, 2018. George Ranch Events www.georgeranch.org George Ranch hosts many events through the year, including a Mother’s Day at the Park – Tea & Targets, a Juneteenth Celebration & Historic Lunch, a Labor Day Backyard BBQ, 34th Annual Texian Market Days Festival, Campfire Christmas, Christmas in the Park and much more. Visit their website for details.
5950 Highway 6, Missouri City Murphy Road Shopping Center
Imperial Sugar Land Events
510 Murphy Rd. Stafford, 77477
www.imperialsugarland.com
Plaza Shopping Center
Imperial Sugar Land hosts many events, including a weekly Farmer’s Market on Saturdays 9:00 A.M. -1:00 P.M. rain or shine as well as events at Constellation Field. The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center features child-centered learning exhibits & special events, Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
2816 Avenue H, Rosenberg, 77471 Riverpark Shopping Center 20030 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, 77479 Sugar Land Town Square Us-59 & Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479
Smart Financial Centre Events
Town Center Lakeside
www.smartfinancialcentre.net
Us-59 & Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479 Williams Trace Shopping Center Highway 6 & Williams Trace Blvd. Sugar Land, 77479
This state-of-the-art venue opened in January 2017 with back-to-back performances by comedian Jerry Seinfeld. Visit their website to see the year’s full calendar of concerts, festivals and family friendly events.
Sugar Land can watch their very own minor league baseball team take on their opponents live at Constellation Field. 2017 season starts in April. Skeeters offer season tickets, mini-plans, group tickets, fundraising and Indicidual game tickets. Sugar Land Town Square Events www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/events From Dancing Under the Stars to Movies Under the Moon, Vino and Vintage Vocals with Vino & Vinyl, Opry on the Square, Sugar Land Town Square hosts a fun event practically every week of the year. Check the website for details. Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/events The Sugar Land Food and Wine Affair is a flagship event of the Fort Bend area. The Wine and Food Affair brings a cultural food and beverage experience right to the Fort Bend area that is second to none. Money raised at the Sugar Land Food and Wine Affair benefits a scholarship endowment at the University of Houston Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management.
FA RMER’S MA R K ETS Fort Bend honors its agricultural heritage with some of the best farmer’s markets in the region. These include the Richmond Farmer’s Market on Fridays and Sundays. On Saturdays, shop the Downtown Rosenberg Farmer’s Market and Imperial Sugar Land Farmer’s Market. Farmer’s Market at Imperial www.imperialfarmersmarket.com Fort Bend Chamber hosts the weekly Farmer’s Market at Imperial located in the parking lot at the Imperial Park Recreational Center. The market features fresh seasonal produce from local farmers, grass fed meats, free range chickens and eggs, local honey, small batch foods and bakery items. Visitors can browse the art from local artisans and try delicious ready to eat food from booths and popular food trucks while listening to the best local musicians.
info@rmswhomes.com
www.RMSWhomes.com --------- SOUTHWEST ---------
When you are considering a home in the Sugar Land area contact RE/MAX Southwest for details on local homes prices and availability. RE/MAX Southwest is a full-service real estate company that has been proudly serving Sugar Land buyers and homes owners for 30 years. Our team of professional Realtors® is ready to personally assist you with all of your real estate needs.
RE/MAX Southwest is proudly serving local communities in: • Sugar Land
• Richmond
• Houston
• Rosenberg
• Missouri City
• Katy
• And surrounding areas
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TOD91A.1776 .4 281.4
RE/MAX Southwest 14905 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478
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