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Creating environments that celebrate life.
E R V E D YEA OF
THE
Amazing communities. So many ways to live. 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, walking the lakeside trails in Viridian or splashing at our huge waterparks in Sienna, you’re sure to find that life is special in a Johnson Development community. Houston • Austin • DFW • Atlanta
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More top-selling communities than any other developer in America 2014 – 2018
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JohnsonDevelopment.com
contents | features
19 39 55 80 94
Fort Bend Master-Planned Communities Public, Private & Higher Education in Fort Bend
ON THE COVER Hole # 3 on the recently renovated Trent Course at Sugar Creek Country Club
Senior Housing Options: Assisted Living Communities
Photo Courtesy of Sugar Creek Country Club PHOTOGRAPHY
Houston’s Active Lifestyle & Recreation Activities
We would like to thank the following for their contributions: GHCVB Houston Cross Creek Ranch Riverstone
Fort Bend’s Delicious Dining Scene
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 The City of Meadows Place Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Schlitterbahn Waterpark George Ranch Imperial Sugar Land Houston Astros City of Rosenberg Smart Financial Centre
94
EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions
80
19
to the publication: Joy Oden Cecile Adams
© WEB Media Group LLC 2019 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Houston Newcomer Guide 2019 - ISSUE 1 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.
“Cancer, our mission is to end you” Bob Harris | Cancer Survivor At MD Anderson Cancer Center, we are the only hospital in Houston focused on one thing: ending cancer. This singular purpose is why we are the nation’s leader in cancer care. From prevention and accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment and innovative clinical trials, our cancer experts are giving patients like Bob Harris every chance for the best possible outcome. Choose MD Anderson first. Call 713-745-9940 or visit FindYourMDAnderson.com.
Ranked one of the top cancer centers in the nation for 29 years by U.S. News & World Report.
Multiple Locations Across Houston
contents | sections WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY • 12
12
14 Fort Bend Accommodations
19 Master-Planned Communities
Derek Wright
CEO
PRESIDENT Kevin Evans
28 Rent or Buy?
VICE PRESIDENT
32 Mortgage Options
Robert Nusbaum CREATIVE DIRECTOR
EDUCATION IN FORT BEND • 38
Erin Hayden Seal
39 Public Schools
OPERATIONS MANAGER
42 Private Schools
Cecile Adams
48 Higher Education
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Jill Roe
ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 52
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
55 Senior Housing Options
Paul Yarbrough
56 Assisted Living Communities
Candi Thomas
Kelly Gajewski
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 58
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón
59 Moving Companies
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newcomer & Relocation Guide
61 Service & Utilities
58
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
33 Cost of Living
38
Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 18 HOME FRONT • 26
18
Phone: 713-952-1916
is published and distributed
64 International Relocation
bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC For advertising information,
66 Places of Worship
please call 713-952-1916.
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 68
Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate
69 Major Medical Facilities
as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors,
BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 74
94
omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication.
75 A rea Chamber of Commerce
WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury,
76 Major Employers List
or inconvenience sustained by anyone
78 Houston by the Numbers
using this publication.
LEISURE + RECREATION • 80 300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395
82 Attractions & Family Fun
Austin Texas 78752
89 Sports & Golf
Phone: 512-266-2900
94 Dining Scene
4
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
– ISSUE 1
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 irresponsibility, 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 amenity-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 foundation 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
6
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
COMPREHENSIVE
SERVICES FOR WOMEN, CLOSE TO HOME.
Women’s services from the routine to the complex, right here in Sugar Land. Every woman is different, with different needs. That’s why Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital offers a wide scope of women’s services, spanning routine OB/GYN services, pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum care, as well as menopause, and breast, bone and pelvic health. Should you need specialty care, a high-risk pregnancy center, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Breast Care and more are all on one campus. So turn to us for care that’s as comprehensive as it is compassionate. Our care doesn’t end there: We have the only dedicated children’s ER in Fort Bend County.
Learn more at memorialhermann.org/SLwomen or call our Women’s Services Nurse Navigator at 281.725.5733
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. Only 1.5% of the over 7,000 chambers in the nation have achieved this top 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, 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 snapshot 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 2019
– ISSUE 1
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,
10
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
Yolanda Ford, Mayor City of Missouri City
Joe R. Zimmerman City of Sugar Land
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
WELCOME to
FORT BEND COUNTY Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in Fort Bend County and take advantage of what the community has to offer. Welcome to Houston, Texas — 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. As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll no doubt 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 Fax: 936-273-0344
The Houston real estate market has been among the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle — for those buying or renting. The more than 39,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR.com) 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 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. On behalf of HAR, it’s my distinct pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you take advantage of everything our incredible community has to offer. Sincerely,
FORT BEND 6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557
Shannon Cobb Evans 2019 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS®/HAR.com
welcome culture shopping & entertainment transportation
12
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Photos courtesy of Fort Bend EDC
in this section
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 make up Fort Bend County
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 is
a bend in the Brazos River, Fort Bend has
major ethnic communities – Asian, African
Fort Bend County, located less than 30-miles
become a regional and national dynamo
American, Latino and Anglo. “Fort Bend
southwest of Downtown Houston, and even
that’s grabbing accolades and superlatives
County is the new America,” said Houston
closer to major employment hubs including
for its forward-looking vision and quality
political strategist Mustafa Tameez in a New
the
of life. Site Selection magazine describes
York Times article on the county’s diversity.
Uptown/Galleria
area,
the
Texas
Medical Center and Greenway Plaza. 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.
Fort Bend as “the crown jewel of suburban 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 percent of U.S. counties in key demographic
diverse county in the United States, with an
measures such as education, household
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
13
WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY
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
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
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.” “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 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 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
Sugar Land
281- 275-8400
14
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
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 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.
SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT 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
Photo Courtesy of City of Meadows Place; Monarch Butterfly Festival
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.
state-of-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.
Opened in early 2017, the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land is the area’s first
Fort Bend County has its own distinct downtown, Sugar Land Town Square,
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
15
WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY
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
Photo Courtesy of City of Meadows Place, Sunset at the Park
A&M and the University of
Texas,
recently designated its growing Sugar
Fort Bend County W
ST
IN
Simonton
Beasley 541
59
RICHMOND 1640
529
762
2759
2218
Booth
Pleak 36
Stafford UP
SUGAR LAND
New Territory
762
2977
360
1092
90A
MISSOURI HOUSTON CITY
3345
Smithers Lake
2234
Pearland
521
Fresno
Arcola 6
Thompsons BNSF 521
59
Fairchilds
HA
r Rive
W
ard ern
361
Needville
Juliff 1994 762
RT
1236
ON
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
BRAZOS BEND STATE PARK
BR
AZ
OR
IA
1994
Guy
442
36
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1462
Retail Sales.........................$8,234,641,375
16
Meadows Place 69
1876
359
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Prop. Value.......................$71,605,229,555
HOUSTON 6
99
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Per Capita Inc...............................$56,086
723
69
540
Kendleton
Mission Bend
FT. BEND PARKWAY
2919
IS
Pecan Grove
10
1875
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1464
ROSENBERG
90A
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359
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1952
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Rainfall (in.)........................................50.35
Technology there.
Weston Lakes
1489
Land area(sq.mi.)..............................861.5
relocate a large segment of its College of
158'
36
Area (sq.mi.)......................................885.3
at its Sugar Land campus, and also to
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Bra
AU
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plans to launch or expand 22 programs
359
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the main campus. University of Houston
ff a Bu
On Gulf Coastal Plain; drained by Brazos, San Bernard rivers; Smithers Lake; level to rolling; rich alluvial soils. Population......................................741,237
Land campus as an official branch of
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.
UP
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
LR
Cow
BRA
ZOR
IA
Damon
Creek 0
Fort Bend County © Texas Almanac
8 MILES
TRANSPORTATION 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
residents now enjoy an express route to The Woodlands, Montgomery County and other destinations. Fort Bend also has its own airport, Sugar Land Regional Airport, which continues to grow and modernize as a general aviation and corporate airport. 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.
for commerce between the United States 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,
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
Photo Courtesy of Riverstone
has more new-home sales in MPCs than any other place in the country. Despite the fact that its last sugar cane crop was harvested in 1928, Fort Bend County still gives off a distinctly sweet aroma – a fragrance of “Home Sweet Home” that persuades thousands of newcomers to put down roots here each year.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
17
in this section
City of Rosenberg, Photo Courtesy by Lorenzo Lerma
master-planned communities cities neighborhoods
18
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
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 of the most significant neighborhoods, communities and municipalities in Fort
Ranch Hill, a 40-foot incline affectionately
residents. In addition, the association
dubbed as Mt. Fulshear, is a popular place
is currently updating the recreational
for residents to walk their dogs, fly kites,
amenities. FCCA is located at 4350
Bend County.
enjoy picnics or simply relax. One of its
Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479.
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-
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 CROSS CREEK RANCH
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 over 400 commer-
regarded Fort Bend Independent School
entire community. Covering nearly 50-acres,
cial
District. As the first “Agri-hood” in the
Polishing Pond is a beautiful nature habitat
Community
set
Houston area, Harvest Green has an onsite
and water quality basin that’s almost the
innovative guidelines for the community
farm, offering residents the opportunity to
size of 48 football fields. More amenities
and maintains beautifully landscaped
join a community supported agriculture
include the Adventure Island Water Park,
streets, lakes and parks. FCCA keeps
program and receive fresh produce each
miles of hike and bike trails, Arbor Park,
the sense of community strong through
week. Each new home in Harvest Green will
and a spacious fitness center. Cross Creek
monthly newsletters and events for the
also include a ready-to-backyard garden, and
businesses.
The
Association
First
Colony
(FCCA)
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
19
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
a lifestyle director will create resident-only
The development will also include an A
KINGDOM HEIGHTS
culinary
dinners
luxury hotel on site, office space and luxury
Kingdom
with guest chefs, wine dinners, gardening
apartments. New-home offerings at Impe-
uniquely designed to provide “lakefront”
classes and much more. Ultimately, Harvest
rial Sugar Land include townhomes, patio
and “park side” living to homeowners at
Green will include up to 2,000 homes.
homes, brownstones and executive homes,
an affordable price in Rosenberg. Kingdom
www.harvestgreentexas.com
at prices from the high $400s to over $800
Heights is a 572-acre master planned
www.imperialsugarland.com
community with 12 lakes and 39 parks
classes,
farm-to-table
IMPERIAL SUGAR LAND Imperial Sugar Land is a mixed-use redevelopment of the famous Imperial Sugar Company site, which processed sugar there for more than 160-years and was the oldest continuously operated business in Texas. Located just 18 miles southwest of Houston, Imperial Sugar Land is a 651-acre community that consists of the 165-acre Imperial tract and the 525-acre Texas General Land Office tract. The iconic Char House and other structures in the factory are being developed into what will be a thriving complex of museums, shops and restaurants. Imperial Sugar Land is also a community of tree-lined streets, lakes, parks and trails. The popular Alamo Drafthouse dine-in movie theater opened a nine-screen theater in the Imperial Market retail center this past year.
20
Heights
was
carefully
and
being developed on 150-acres, water and
JORDAN RANCH
green space will separate this community
One of the newest communities from
from any other in Fort Bend County. The
Johnson Development, Jordan Ranch is
community includes a large recreation
located in Fort Bend County – one mile
center with a resort style pool and fitness
from I-10 West and with convenient access
center. Excellent Lamar CISD schools;
to the Grand Parkway, which now extends
Foster High School and Briscoe Junior
all the way from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59
High are right down the road. Kingdom
North. Planned for 2,800 homes, this 1,350-
Heights is just minutes from Sugar Land
acre community is also planned to include a
Towne Centre, the Stafford Civic Center,
swimming pool, pocket parks, and hike and
Fort Bend Theatre and an array of local
bike trails. Near the Energy Corridor, Jordan
shopping, dining, entertainment and recre-
Ranch is part of the highly regarded Lamar
ation opportunities. New-home offerings
Consolidated Independent School District,
in Kingdom Heights start from the $200’s
New homes are offered by six leading
from three quality builders. Section 4 of the
homebuilders, including David Weekley,
community opened Fall 2017. Kingdom
Highland, Newmark, Perry, Plantation and
Heights development plan will eventually
Westin. www.jordanranchtexas.com
have 1,430 home sites.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 >
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
QUAIL VALLEY Nestled among mature trees and quiet streets,
Sawmill Lake Club in Sienna, Photo Courtesy of Sienna by Johnson Development
Quail Valley offers the best of both worlds: proximity to downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center, along with expansive green spaces where residents can enjoy golf, tennis, and fitness activities within the subdivision. Built in the early 1970’s as Fort Bend County’s first master planned community, Quail Valley Fund is proud of its continuing commitment to maintaining the quality of life that residents have come to expect and enjoy. The Quail Valley Fund works closely with local government officials to ensure the community’s continued positive growth and
SIENNA PLANTATION
True to its name, Veranda will encourage
public safety. Some results of this partnership
Sienna Plantation is a comprehensive 10,800-
its
are evident in the many awards and recogni-
acre
located
rate inviting verandas and other timeless
tions that have been bestowed on Missouri
between two acclaimed cities – Missouri City
details into new homes. “We want this
City, including being listed as one of the “50
and Sugar Land. One of the top-selling commu-
community to reflect the rich heritage of
safest cities in the U.S.” by Congressional
nities in Fort Bend County, Sienna Plantation
Quarterly, and being named among the “Best
offers new homes by more than 16 leading
Places to Live in America” by Money maga-
builders, with styles including patio homes,
zine. Look at available homes and view the
single-family homes and luxury custom homes.
Top 10 reasons to live in Quail Valley at their
The lifestyle includes Club Sienna, a 12-acre
website, www.quailvalleyfund.org
recreation complex that’s home to the largest
master-planned
community
water adventure park in the South, with 200 feet
RIVERSTONE One of the top-selling communities in Houston, in Texas and the nation, Riverstone is a 3,700-acre community planned for 6,000 homes and approximately 18,000 residents at completion. New homes are priced from the $300s to over $1 million and include townhomes, patio homes, traditional singlefamily homes and luxurious custom homes. Resort-quality amenities include the signature 17-acre Club at Riverstone, 200-acres of lakes, and another 500-acres dedicated to open spaces and recreation. Riverstone has three pool complexes, including the newest pool at The Club, offering twisting water slides, spray elements, a zero-entry lagoon and a splash pad. Riverstone is located in the heart of Fort Bend County, with addresses in Sugar Land and Missouri City. Schools are part of the highly regarded Fort Bend ISD, and Riverstone also offers convenient nearby shopping at First Colony Mall, Sugar Land Town Square and many more. www.riverstone.com
22
of twisting slides, three diving boards, a junior Olympic pool and a zero-entry lagoon. Sienna
leading
homebuilders
to
incorpo-
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 CISD. For more information, visit www.verandatexas.com
Plantation also offers 34 parks, miles of trails, and the 18-hole Sienna Plantation Golf Club. Camp Sienna is a 160-acre sports park along the Brazos River Corridor, with fields for baseball, soccer, volleyball and basketball, plus 1.5 miles of trails. An active community, Sienna Planta-
CITIES THE CITY OF MEADOWS PLACE Only one square mile in size, the City of
tion has more than 40 annual events and more
Meadows Place is perfectly situated between
than 200 fitness classes every month. Schools
Sugar Land, Stafford and Houston. U. S.
are part of the highly rated Fort Bend ISD.
Highway 59 is the main artery and connects
Traditional single-family homes, low-main-
with Dairy Ashford, Kirkwood, Airport
tenance patio homes and luxury custom
Boulevard and other major thoroughfares,
homes are priced from the high $200s to over
making it easy to reach The Galleria, Down-
$1 million. www.siennaplantation.com
town Houston, the Texas Medical Center and other destinations. Incorporated in
VERANDA
1983, Meadows Place has its own dedicated
Home contruction has begun in 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.”
police department, with no municipal utility
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
district taxes or homeowners association fees. Zoning ordinances, deed restrictions and commercial property regulations are strictly enforced, maintaining the residential quality of the neighborhoods. In Fort Bend ISD, the city has one of the youngest populations in Fort Bend County, a rising per
capita income level, and an active social life.
settled in the late 1800s. The Lamar Consol-
highly regarded schools and its educated
www.cityofmeadowsplace.org
idated Independent School District serves
and affluent population. Some of the biggest
Fulshear and Simonton, while the Brazos
retail and entertainment complexes in the
Independent School District operates an
Houston region are located in the Katy
elementary school in Orchard.
area, including Katy Mills Mall, home to
FULSHEAR, SIMONTON, AND ORCHARD
more than 200 premium outlet stores, and
Fulshear, Simonton and Orchard are lovely rural towns in the northwest part of Fort
KATY
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, offering dozens
Bend County, with a network of farm-to-
One of the fastest-growing and most desir-
of shops, restaurants, salons and cafes in a
market roads connecting them to I-10 West
able suburbs in the Houston area, Katy is
pedestrian friendly Main Street atmosphere.
and nearby communities including Katy.
located where Fort Bend County, Harris
The University of Houston and Houston
Fulshear was incorporated in 1977 and
County
Community College both have campuses in
remains a largely rural area, though it is now
The Katy Freeway (I-10 West), the Grand
home to some of the region’s fastest-growing
Parkway and the Westpark Tollway link
master-planned
including
Katy to the nearby Energy Corridor and
MISSOURI CITY
Johnson Development’s Cross Creek Ranch.
all of Houston. From historic homes and
Home to large and popular master-planned
Approximately 9,000 people call Fulshear
shops in Old Town Katy, to new homes
communities including Riverstone and
home, and the community continues to
and upscale restaurants in some of the
Sienna Plantation, Missouri City has a rich
grow at a rapid pace. Fulshear is served by
nation’s largest and most popular master-
history that dates back to 1853, when Texas
both Lamar CISD and Katy ISD. With less
planned communities, Katy has it all. The
first railroad began operating and two real
than 1,000 residents, Simonton is located
actual City of Katy has a population of
estate investors purchased four square miles
14 miles from Richmond and maintains a
about 18,282, but the overall Katy area is
of land directly on its route. They advertised
country atmosphere that harkens back to
home to approximately 180,000 people and
their new development as a “land of genial
its founding days in the 1850s. Orchard has
growing fast. Katy receives a steady stream
sunshine and eternal summer” in newspa-
less than 500 residents. Like Simonton, it is
of accolades from national publications
pers in St. Louis, hoping that its name of
also a farm and ranch community that was
and groups for its high quality of life, its
Missouri City would attract new residents.
communities,
and
Waller
County
converge.
Katy. www.cityofkaty.com
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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23
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
ROSENBERG With more than 4,500 new home starts since 2013 and an in-city population quickly approaching 40,000, Rosenberg is one of Houston’s hottest and most desirable suburbs. The more than 16,000 new residents who have made Rosenberg home since 2000 come from all walks of life but are all seeking the same quality of life components: affordable, high-quality housing, terrific shopping and dining options and a business friendly environment in which to start, expand or relocate a business. The cultural balance between Brazos Town Photo Courtesy of City of Rosenberg, Photo by Lorenzo Lerma
Center and the Historic Downtown District respectively offers residents and visitors the opportunity to shop, dine or even live in a
Fast-forward to recent times, and Missouri
the “Old Three Hundred,” the first settlers
City has earned kudos from CNN/Money
to receive land grants in Stephen F. Austin’s
Magazine and USA Today as one of “Amer-
original colony. The seat of Fort Bend
ica’s best places to live” and as one of
County, Richmond is infused with history,
“Texas safest cities.” Quail Valley was the
from the George Park Historical Ranch to a
first master-planned community in Missouri
thriving downtown filled with historic build-
City and also one of the first in the Houston
ings and significant landmarks.
region, with its well-manicured appearance
Today, more than 14,000 citizens reside in
Quail Valley Fund. Missouri City is linked
Richmond, enjoying a high quality of life
to Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical
less than an hour from downtown Houston
Center and other destinations by U.S. 59
and other major destinations via the West-
toll roads. Schools are part of the highly regarded Fort Bend Independent School District. www.missouricitytx.gov
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 first and only state-designated Cultural Arts District in Fort Bend County. It is also a
and quality of life maintained today by the
South and a growing network of efficient
cutting edge, mixed-use development or to
designated Main Street Program, which conducts annual arts festivals each spring and fall and Rosenberg Christmas Nights each December.
park Tollway, Grand Parkway, U.S. 59 South
But it’s certainly not all about history in
and other major thoroughfares.
Rosenberg. The future is brighter than
Richmond is home to some of the most successful and established master-planned
NEEDVILLE, FAIRCHILD, BEASLEY, KENDLETON, AND THOMPSONS
communities
The rural towns of Needville, Fairchild,
include Long Meadow Farms and Sweet-
Beasley, Kendleton and Thompsons are located
grass – the latter designed for residents ages
in the southern portion of Fort Bend County.
55 and up.
in
the
Houston
region,
including Pecan Grove Plantation, opened in 1977. Newer and still-active communities
Many of the homes in and around these small
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 a Rosenberg campus and offers an array of high-tech courses, including Cyber Security and Advanced Robotics. For nature lovers, Seabourne Creek Nature
towns are situated on acreage or outside of
Richmond also has four public parks for
Park offers miles of walking, running
traditional neighborhoods. A network of creeks
community activities, including popular
and biking trails, fishing at Seabourne
and several small lakes are scattered through
George Park. The city is served by the highly
Lake
this area, creating recreational opportunities for
regarded Fort Bend and Lamar school
maintained by the Texas Mater Natural-
those who enjoy water sports.
districts. The area also offers outstanding
ists. Seabourne Creek Sports Complex
parochial and private schools, with higher
boasts
RICHMOND
education offered by Wharton County
fields and is in the process of expanding
Richmond was founded in 1837 along a
Junior College and Texas State Technical
by adding two new Babe Ruth fields.
bend in the Brazos River by members of
College. www.richmondtx.gov
www.rosenbergtx.gov.
24
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
and
a
natural
state-of-the-art
wetlands
Little
pond
League
STAFFORD
immaculately maintained, First Colony
a major draw for families with children,
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.
has been joined by newer communities
and now the University of Houston at
including Telfair and Imperial Sugar
Sugar Land is a full branch of the Tier 1
Land. The 32-acre Sugar Land Town
flagship campus. Sugar Land continually
Square development created a new down-
improves its quality of life with ongoing
town and sense of place for Sugar Land,
development of new attractions including
and has become an extremely popular
Constellation Field, home of the Sugar
place for residents to shop, dine and enjoy
Land Skeeters minor league baseball
events and attractions. Fort Bend ISD
team, and new parks and cultural venues.
and Lamar Consolidated ISD have been
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
communi-
ties. 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 largescale 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
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
25
in this section temporary lodging rent or buy choosing a realtor mortgage options cost of living
26
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
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
temporary and permanent housing choices,
www.houstonnewcomerguides.com
of the 6 percent state hotel tax; see the hotel
to skilled realtors and custom builders who
visiting | www.har.com.
or
by
are eager to help.
management 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
27
Choosing a Realtor
Bottom line: Fort Bend County newcomers
The right realtor can save you thousands.
options throughout the area – from extend-
will find plenty of temporary housing ed-stay hotels and corporate lodging, to
Buying or selling a house involves real estate law, title insurance policies, home warranties, home-lending practices, appraisals, inspections, hazard insurance, surveys and other issues; the services of a realtor are highly recommended. Especially for people new to the area, a realtor can save time and money and provide local knowledge. A realtor can swiftly locate homes that fit with your lifestyle, price range, educational needs, and location.
single-family homes and condos for rent.
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT REALTOR?
make more sense if you have a career or life-
First, understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® cannot discriminate against someone based on race, religion, gender, handicap, family status or national origin. Talk to a number of realtors before making your decision, talk to some of their previous clients and review their current and recent listings. You might want to ask the following:
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 style 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 your living space or retiring soon; and if you are experiencing a financial setback and/or rebuilding your credit.
• How long have you worked in real estate?
• Is real estate your full-time job?
• Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers?
mentation for your assets; if you can afford at
• Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood?
least a 5 percent down payment and closing
• What is the average price of properties that you close?
• How many closings do you have each year?
• Do you work on a team?
It may also be better to buy if you want to
• D o you have any designations, cer tifications, awards or special training?
breaks and credits; if you have an adequate
Freddie Mac says buying may be best if you have reliable income, good credit and docu-
costs; and if you are financially able to take on home maintenance and improvements.
build equity and qualify for homeowner tax cash reserve to withstand loss of employment or another financial setback; and if you plan
SPECIALTY CERTIFICATIONS Realtors with the CBR (Certified Buyer Representative) are exclusively committed to providing excellent buyer representation and know current real-estate practices. Realtors can also be certified as Texas Affordable Housing Specialists, which recognizes training in green technologies that can make a home more affordable. Realtors certified by Earth Advantage are trained to spot and understand the advantages of green construction. An EcoBroker designation means a realtor has extensive training in conservation and green energy.
on staying in your home at least four years.
NEW HOME VS. EXISTING HOME 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.
Your realtor should be someone who is an expert on the area and the industry. But she should also be easy to work with and willing to listen – the process should be enjoyable as well as productive.
28
F O R T B E N D C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E N E W C O M E R G U I D E 2 0 1 9 –– I SI SSSUUEE 11
A new home will require less maintenance in the short term, and new 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 home values over the long haul, and it will continue to be a great place to live, work and raise a family,” says Houston real estate expert and blogger Toni Nelson. Fort Bend County offers a great deal of value within the greater Houston region. Highly regarded schools, vast parks and a thriving economy add further value to home choices that range from townhomes to estate homes, both newly built are wired and capable of accommodating
extremely knowledgeable and experienced
the latest technologies.
in building custom homes in the region.
There are also advantages to buying an
The benefits of building a custom home
existing home, especially in Fort Bend
are getting exactly what you want – from
County, home to well-tended neighbor-
the location of the lot, to the design of the
hoods that have been established for
exterior style and interior floor plan. Many
decades, along with homes that are just a
buyers have extended multigenerational
few years old. According to Realtor.com,
families or adult children living at home,
other advantages may include price, estab-
and garage apartments and ground floor
lished landscaping, “extra” features such as
“casitas” (small houses) are popular options
window coverings that may not be included
for accommodating these family members.
and existing. In addition, the lending climate may be easier for first-time buyers. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered
mortgage
corporations,
recently
relaxed lending guidelines that were tightened after the national housing in 2008. Now, some buyers can get a mortgage
in new homes, and traditional floor plans. Inside, too, a custom home allows you to Used homes may also have a track record
customize every aspect of every room – from
of appreciation over the years, although
countertops and flooring, to paint colors and
Realtor.com cautions that past performance
lighting and plumbing fixtures. And if you
does not guarantee future market appeal.
want to create a special place to incorporate
CUSTOM HOME BUILDING One of the great things about Fort Bend is
Rev. Marty Vershel, Pastor
an architectural element that’s a family trea-
• Traditional and Contemporary Worship
sure or recent discovery, that’s very easy to
• Sunday School for All Ages
do when custom building.
• Service and Ministry by:
the diversity of communities and homesites
Youth, Children, Women, Men, Seniors
home of your dreams. The choices are almost
READY TO BUY YOUR HOME? WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
endless. You can find a waterfront or golf
People are buying houses in Houston; in
• Day School
course homesite in a large master-planned
fact, the Houston Association of Realtors
community or small enclave neighborhood.
recently reported that home sales were up
• Mission and Community Outreach Opportunities
Many custom home communities have gated
by 3.5% for single-family homes from the
entrances and private streets, and some are
same time last year. And the median home
associated with country clubs. There are also
price increased to $229,900 (according to
communities where you can find oversized
HAR.com) because of a strong showing
and acreage homesites.
of luxury home sales. However, Houston
to choose from for building the new custom
still ranks as one of the most affordable Also in Fort Bend, you’ll find a wide selec-
big cities in the United States for home-
tion of homebuilders and Realtors who are
ownership, and is a place where homes
• Choirs/Music
3900 Lexington Boulevard at Murphy Road
281-499-3502 www.fumcmc.org HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
29
LOT FINANCING AVAILABLE! CALL TERRY CROCKETT 832-344-2036
Sonya Simmons, Danny Curtis, Gayle Bowen, Stephanie Sykes and Kristin Cady
GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR YOU WWW.GAYLEBOWEN.COM
AC R E AGE E STATE S The allure of Fulbrook is undeniable. This wonderfully wooded acreage community is the ideal spot for your rural retreat - convenient to the city life but nestled in nature. The trusted luxury custom homebuilders of Fulbrook Acreage Estates will help you design your own sanctuary to suit your family’s unique needs and desires. Fulbrook Estate owners get to enjoy an amazing tax rate of just 1.96% and there are no MUD taxes. The natural oxbow lakes are perfect for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. More than 200 sprawling acres are dedicated to the picturesque open spaces. Living in nature is spectacular but for those who are excited about a little entertainment once in a while,
they can find live performances at the gazebo or host a family outing in the pavilion. Building a dream estate in Fulbrook allows the residents the opportunity to enjoy the small town charm of the Fulshear Community where new public schools, numerous private schools as well as the prestigious Katy Medical Center is truly something special. It is home to amazing golf courses, fun filled community events as well as holiday festivals. A variety of retail stores and restaurants including the famous Dozier’s BBQ beckon residents to the delightful town center and newly opened Pier 36. Come see for yourself why Fulbrook Acreage Estates located in the up and coming town of Fulshear is the perfect place to raise your family.
Katy
FM
Grand Parkwa y
SEE THE COMMUNITY ONLINE AT WWW.GAYLEBOWEN.COM 9 35
Fulshear
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FM 1093 FM
Westheimer
Westpark Tollway
9 35
䈀甀椀氀搀椀渀最 䌀漀洀瀀愀渀礀Ⰰ 䤀一䌀䤀一䌀 䈀甀椀氀搀椀渀最 䌀漀洀瀀愀渀礀Ⰰ
THE GAYLE BOWEN RE/MAX TEAM SERVING THE FULSHEAR & KATY AREA SPECIALIZING IN COUNTRY HOMES AND ACREAGE For the last three decades, Gayle Bowen has been a pillar of professionalism in the Houston area real estate community. As business grew, Gayle wanted to expand and developed the Gayle Bowen Team. Sales agent, Sonya Simmons, came to the team with expertise in new home construction as the result of assisting 7 top production builders in several area communities. Danny Curtis, brings both passion and a deep sense of responsibility as a Fulshear/Katy area realtor and is familiar with every development in his territory. With a passion for real estate he retired from Texas Instruments and pursued his goal of becoming a realtor. Stephanie Sykes is a 4th generation Houstonian and has expertise in the Greater Houston Metroplex. With a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas State University, she entered Fort Bend ISD as an elementary educator and understands the importance of a
strong school system when it comes to buying a house. Kristin Cady joined the Gayle Bowen Team in 2005 with a 10 year mortgage lending background, and has been a Katy resident for 40 years. Kristin oversees all administrative issues for the Gayle Bowen Team. The Gayle Bowen Team recently made the Top 20 Realtor Team of RE/MAX of Texas, and Top Realtor Team List featured in the Katy Times’ 2018 Best of Katy Edition. As a prestigious member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame and Chairman’s Club, the Gayle Bowen Team delivers uncompromising service to both buyers and sellers. The Gayle Bowen Team consistently places in the top echelon of Texas realtor teams by building Client confidence in their market expertise and collaborative network of personal contacts. As certified Luxury Specialists, the Gayle Bowen Team delivers the dream, one client at a time.
REMAX CINCO RANCH CELL: 713-822-4539 OFFICE: 281-646-2127 | Gayle@FulbrookHomes.com 2877 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy, Texas 77494
500
TOP
REMAX of TEXAS 2018
FORT BEND COUNTY HOME FRONT
with only a 3 percent down payment and a minimum FICO credit score of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are also offered by various government agencies. Some groups, including teachers, police officers and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs.
HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD? Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to home ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that Houston area residents typically spend about 30 percent of their incomes on housing, so the city overall is right in line with that advice, albeit slightly on the high side.
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 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
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.
rates. There are three credit reporting agencies and you
Developed by the Real Estate Center
may contact them to obtain your credit history.
at Texas A&M University, the Texas
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.
Housing
Affordability
Index
(THAI)
refers to the ability of a median-income
TRANSUNION® 1-877-322-8228 www.transunion.com
EQUIFAX® 1-800-685-1111 www.equifax.com
EXPERIAN
family
to
purchase
a
median-priced
house in an area, reflecting the capacity of that family to qualify for a mortgage, using standard financing terms. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that the median household income is just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the median-priced home; a ratio of less than 1.0 suggests that the family cannot afford the house.
®
1-888-397-3742 www. Experian.com
MORTGAGE OPTIONS Several different types of mortgages are common today. A standard 30-year fixed rate mortgage is the most common way to
32
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
finance a home; 15-year fixed rate mort-
payment. Escrow money for taxes and insur-
loans, a down payment of 20 percent of
gages are another option. The 40-year
ance is added to the payments according to
the purchase price is required to avoid
mortgage has become more popular in
the terms of the lender, and the amounts are
paying
some parts of the country where home
recalculated annually.
(PMI), although it is possible to take out a
Private
Mortgage
Insurance
secondary loan to avoid PMI.
prices are rising fast, but many experts agree that the tradeoff of a slightly lower
The Alternative Mortgage Instrument
monthly payment for much more interest
(AMI) is a loan in which at least one of
INTEREST RATES
paid over the life of the loan does not
the four components varies. The most
Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary
make economic sense.
common AMI is the Adjustable Rate
from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year
Mortgage with a variable interest rate.
fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different
For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the
Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins
from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate
mortgage, payment, the interest rate and
low and periodically adjusts either up or
mortgages reset according to the terms of
the term of the loan are fixed and fully
down within limits based on a pre-spec-
the lender. Interest rates are expected to
self-amortizing, which means at the end of
ified index. The initial low rate, and
continue to remain near historic lows.
the term, the principal has been repaid.
therefore, the lower monthly payment,
The purchase price less the down payment
enables the buyer to meet the income and
CLOSING COSTS
debt-ratio requirement.
Typically, between 2 to 5 percent of the
is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing
purchase price of a home, closing costs include
the principal by the number of payments in
DOWN PAYMENT
related fees such as costs for running credit
a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding
The down payment is the cash committed
reports, loan origination, appraisal, survey, title
the interest determines the monthly house
toward the purchase of a home. For most
insurance, and discount points paid to lower
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 Q2 2018) CITY
COMPOSITE 100%
GROCERY 13.47%
HOUSING 28.15%
UTILITIES 9.90%
Atlanta
100.5
102.2
101.4
86.6
100.2
108.3
102.1
Austin
98.5
88.2
101.8
94.6
90.2
101.2
102.8
Boston
147.4
106.8
211.2
122.8
112.7
135.7
129.2
Chicago
123.8
107.9
157.2
92.4
126.7
101.5
114.1
Cleveland
99.4
112.4
86.4
100.0
100.7
100.6
104.1
Dallas/Fort Worth
104.3
102.8
106.8
106.2
98.1
102.7
104.2
Denver
111.9
97.6
136.3
85.3
102.7
104.5
108.6
Houston
97.5
86.5
102.4
110.3
98.9
92.1
94.5
NYC - Manhattan
242.4
141.8
514.1
117.1
127.9
115.3
143.8
Phoenix
96.8
97.7
94.9
108.4
95.5
97.5
94.8
Pittsburgh
99.1
109.9
92.7
106.2
106.7
92.3
97.0
Raleigh
93.8
99.5
85.1
92.6
99.3
99.6
96.9
San Francisco
194.7
128.6
363.4
125.1
133.9
126.1
128.7
Seattle
151.9
127.0
207.5
112.8
134.4
122.8
136.1
Tuscon
93.9
102.1
79.3
99.0
97.8
99.8
99.3
TRANSPORTATION
8.99%
HEALTHCARE 4.57%
MISC. 34.925%
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
33
FORT BEND COUNTY HOME FRONT
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.texas.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 the interest rate. Closing costs are usually paid
different accounts, minimum balance require-
by the buyer at the time of closing.
types of insurance that may be required. In
ments, ATM charges, availability of funds
the Houston and surrounding areas, flood
policy, direct deposit and other options.
insurance is required or recommended by
PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION
Contact the Texas Department of Banking toll
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage
free 877-276-5554 or visit www.dob.texas.gov.
is beneficial because it gives sellers a
mortgage companies in some neighborhoods. Check with your builder, realtor or lender to determine the status of your property.
level of assurance that the prospective
CREDIT UNIONS
buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big
Credit unions are a good source for mort-
plus in a competitive market. Pre-ap-
gage loans because they may offer lower
proval requires the completion of a
or competitive rates. Historically, credit
loan application and sometimes a fee.
unions have been employer-based finan-
Pre-qualification, on the other hand,
cial institutions but today it is common
is just an estimate of a mortgage that a
The City of Houston, Harris County and
for credit unions to be community-based,
prospective buyer might qualify for.
other governmental entities also offer
meaning that anyone can use a credit
homebuyer assistance programs that can
union as their primary financial insti-
TAX DEDUCTIONS
provide down payment assistance and
tution. Members are insured for up to
Some home purchase costs are deductible
special financing for buyers who meet
$250,000 per account by the National
if you itemize deductions. These costs
certain household income and purchase
Credit Union Administration.
price criteria.
taxes and PMI payments. For more infor-
More information about credit unions is
Other programs include Southeast Texas
mation, visit www.irs.gov or ask your tax
available from the Texas Credit Union
Housing Finance (www.sethfc.com) and
preparer or attorney.
League ( www.tcul.org) and the Credit Union
the Harris County Downpayment Assis-
National Association (www.cuna.org).
tance Program (harriscountytx.gov/csd).
may include mortgage interest, real estate
BANKS
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.
Information is also available from the Texas
Banks offer a full range of services that
HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE
usually include mortgages at competitive
Homeowner’s insurance is required by mort-
rates. In addition to checking and savings
gage lenders, and is essential even if a home is
accounts, their mortgage lending is another
paid for. Buyers are typically asked to pay one
Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders
option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about
year of insurance at closing, with premiums
are also good sources of information about
fees associated with the bank’s services,
included in monthly mortgage payments.
available homebuyer assistance programs.
34
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
Department of Housing & Community Affairs (www.tdhca.state.tx.us).
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
35
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 2019
– ISSUE 1
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
special
for
reloca-
“3-hour
The best way to navigate all of the options
tour includes an overview of the area
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 significantly reduces stress caused by a move.
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
especially
a
PERSONALIZED 3-HOUR HOME TOUR
LIFESTYLE
tour”
offer
tion buyers. This free, no obligation several
homes
Simply
in call
in this section public schools private schools higher education
Photo Courtesy of Calvary Episcopal Preparatory; October Dawn Photography
38
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
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
The District is Texas’ seventh largest with
Children at Risk, The Washington Post’s
the most important ingredients in Fort Bend
approximately 76,000 students and one of
Top High Schools in the national rankings,
County’s winning quality of life recipe.
the most diverse in the nation. Working and
U.S. News & World Report’s Best High
From the diverse Fort Bend ISD, to smaller
learning cohesively alongside families who
Schools in the nation and the United States
districts that maintain their rural char-
speak more than 90 languages and dialects,
Presidential Scholars Program.
acter, parents will find top-notch education
the schools work together with students,
throughout the county. When it comes to
their families and the community to address
In Fort Bend ISD we say “Our District”
higher education and workforce training,
each student’s unique needs.
because it takes everyone in Fort Bend ISD-
Fort Bend also excels. In the following
including
Fort Bend ISD currently has 80 campuses: 11
teachers,
Bend’s major school districts and educa-
high schools, 15 middle schools, 50 elemen-
community members-working together as
tional institutions.
tary campuses and three unique secondary
a collaborative community to inspire and
campuses to address the academic and voca-
equip all students to pursue futures beyond
tional interests of students. With more than
what they can imagine.
Fort Bend Independent School District www.fortbendisd.com • 281-634-1000 The quality of education in Fort Bend
students,
and
staff,
pages, we take a brief look at some of Fort
PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS
parents,
administrators,
the
11,000 full-time employees and substitutes, Bend County.
Katy Independent School District www.katyisd.org • 281-396-6000
Fort Bend ISD is committed to its mission
Serving parts of Fort Bend County, this
to inspire and equip all students to pursue
flourishing school district encompasses 181
futures beyond what they can imagine.
square miles, with its eastern boundary
the District is the largest employer in Fort
County has long been a driving force to
stretching to the Energy Corridor, about 16
attract families to the area. Fort Bend
Fort Bend ISD, its campuses and its students
miles west of Downtown Houston. District
County is one of the fastest growing coun-
are routinely recognized for exemplary
boundaries also extend along the Katy
ties in the nation. As the largest school
achievements by organizations such as
Freeway to a few miles west of the City of
district in the county, Fort Bend ISD is an
The National Merit Scholars Program, the
Katy. More than 81,978 students attend
outstanding K-12 public education system.
National Association of Music Merchants,
68 campuses, including 8 four-year high
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
highest ratings in Texas from Great-
located in LCISD, with developers (and new
Schools.org and Children At Risk, two
residents) attracted by the district’s high
nonprofit groups that rank schools based
passage rate on standardized tests, its highly
on test scores, the number of students
educated population (35% have bachelor’s
taking advanced classes, graduation rates
degrees) and high median income level.
and other metrics. Most recently, it was named the best school district in the Houston-Metro area by Niche, and was selected for District Administration’s District of Distinction Award.
Photo Courtesy of Calvary Episcopal Preparatory; October Dawn Photography
While welcoming growth, LCISD has kept its small-town values, including campuses
with
smaller
enrollments,
allowing students to have more opportunities to participate in leadership roles and
Lamar Consolidated Independent
extracurricular activities. While valuing
School District
its roots, LCISD strives to make sure its
www.lcisd.org • 832-223-0000
students and staff have access to the latest technology. Every year, a new group of
The
Lamar
Consolidated
Independent
teachers attends LCISD’s INTERACT
schools. Given the highest possible rating
School District is another major player
Academy, where they learn about the
by the Texas Education Agency, Katy ISD
in the educational lineup for Fort Bend
latest hardware and software and – most
offers an outstanding instructional program
County. Covering more than 384 square
importantly – how to use it keep the tech-
with facilities, equipment and materials
miles, LCISD is one of the area’s largest
savvy students engaged in the classroom.
that are among the best in the state. Katy
districts geographically, with an enrollment
ISD’s Seven Lakes High School is consis-
of over 31,000 students.
Overall, LCISD is a TEA Recognized District, with 75 percent of its schools
tently included on Newsweek’s annual list of “America’s Top 500 Public High Schools.”
Some of the newest and largest master-
ranked either Exemplary (11 schools) or
Katy ISD schools also earn some of the
planned communities in the area are
Recognized (13 schools).
CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 >
Inspiring and equipping our students to pursue futures beyond what they can imagine!
A Fort Bend ISD Graduate has a rigorous academic foundation, strong character, and is … CONNECT WITH US
40
EQUIPPED WITH SKILLS FOR LIFE
A SERVANT LEADER
AN EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR
A CRITICAL THINKER
A COMPASSIONATE CITIZEN
A COLLABORATIVE TEAM MEMBER
www.FortBendISD.com
Like Fort Bend ISD on Facebook.
Follow Fort Bend ISD on Twitter @FortBendISD.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
A LIFE-LONG LEARNER
Fusion Academy Sugar Land One to One works
The value of fusion
You can't hide in a one-to-one classroom. You aren't competing with 40 other students to be heard. You aren't afraid to speak up because it's just you and the teacher. And there is no possibility of falling through the cracks.
Every student's path is different and we partner with others to help them achieve their goals, whatever they may be. Many of our students go on to attend a college or university, while some pursue a trade school, gap year, or another option.
Students and teachers spend their 50 minute class period together working through the material at a pace that works for the students. Our teachers work to first build trust with their students as a foundation for learning. We believe in the model "love, motivate, teach." Students aren't going to care about the material, if they don't feel connected with their teacher. A mentorship naturally forms, and that positive relationship drives student success.
While other schools may be cutting their art and music programs, we have a robust roster of electives for students to explore and pursue their creativity. We also have a wellness program that includes art and music, along with physical wellness and healthy habits. Students learn healthy self- expressions and how to deal effectively with stress, anxiety, low self- esteem, body image issues and social pressure.
beyond the classroom
Homework doesn't go home. Yes, you read that correctly. All students complete their homework in one of our Homework Cafe spaces on campus. Here, they have access to teacher help, and are kept accountable to finish their homework before leaving campus that day . No more nightly homework battles!
Schedule a tour to come see customized education in action! Call us at 281.207.9506 or visit us at fusionacademy.com
Fusion has been the best thing we’ve ever done for our child.
Fusion Sugar Land • FusionSugarLand.com • 281.207.9506
Full-Time Academy | Classes for Credit | Grades 6-12 | Tutoring
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
FORT BEND C HO OU U SNTTOY NE D ED UU CC AA T ITOI O NN
Needville Independent School District www.needvilleisd.com With its motto of “Learn Today, Fly Forever,” Needville ISD prides itself on 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 meaningful work; and empowering each student to 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 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 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”.
future workplace. Serving children from Pre-K to 12th Grade, learning and achievement at BISH is supported by collaborations with The Juilliard School, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and FIRST® LEGO® League. These collaborations have allowed the school to fully embed STEAM programming throughout all year groups. The campus spans 34-acres and features purpose driven technology developed in conjunction with Apple, customizable maker spaces, state-of-the- art science labs, three athletic fields, an aquatic centre, two NCAA regulation size gymnasiums, and a 550-seat performing arts theater designed in collaboration with Juilliard. Every aspect of the school is centered around learners and learning. From the innovative design of a new 275,000-square-foot building to their extensively trained teachers, BISH is committed to offering a world-class, personalized learning approach that enables each student to excel. Graduates achieve outstanding academic success through the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and gain acceptance to the finest universities and colleges in the US, UK and around the world. Students at BISH have access to incredible educational opportunities because it is part of Nord Anglia Education (NAE), the world’s premium schools organization. With 44 international schools around the world, including China, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and North America, NAE educates more than 38,000 students globally. Conveniently located off IH10 at N. Westgreen Boulevard and just minutes from the Grand Parkway, the British International School of Houston is acces-
PRIVATE SCHOOLS The British International School of Houston (BISH) www.bishouston.org • 713-290-9025 The British International School of Houston (BISH) is the city’s premier independent school committed to creating the highest quality learning environment in the world. The school ensures that students are equipped with the skills they will need to be successful in the
42
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
sible to families residing in all cities across the Greater Houston Area, including Katy, Houston, The Woodlands and Sugarland. 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 CONTINUED ON PAGE 44 >
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 on each student’s unique capabilities and interests. Our globally-respected curriculum produces resilient, confident and lifelong learners.
LOCAL ROOTS WITH GLOBAL REACH While our school has strong roots in the Houston community, we welcome families from across the globe as well as across town. We respect and value the different cultures of our families and view our diversity as a celebrated strength. No matter where our students might come from, they all leave better prepared with a global passport to their future.
PERSONALIZED, INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING We not only value each child’s background, interests and skills, we actually use them as the foundation for learning. We encourage our students to pursue their own interests and actively seek the academic skills necessary to bring their passions to life. Skills
and knowledge obtained in this way become more meaningful and are better retained.
HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT Our state-of-the-art facility and specialized programming allow us to develop the whole person and not just the academic student. Our performance arts curriculum, designed in partnership with The Juilliard School, provides unparalleled opportunities to speak publicly, experience a variety of instruments as well as take part in the dramatic arts. Our extensive physical education curriculum and extra-curricular athletics program allow students to regularly engage in sports and activities on three athletic fields including a FIFA-regulation soccer field, an aquatic centre and two NCAA-regulation size gymnasiums.
SCHEDULE A TOUR TO EXPERIENCE PERSONALIZED LEARNING FIRST-HAND: CALL 713.290.9025 OR VISIT WWW.BISHOUSTON.ORG
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F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N
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 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. Small classrooms and individualized attention assure that students enjoy a safe and nurturing environment, regardless of the
grade. Christian Character classes, Bible
determine college and career decisions as
instruction and three chapel services weekly
well as assist in developing college portfolios
foster an emotionally safe environment. This
and scholarship applications. CEP students
also translates into classrooms that are free
consistently graduate with multiple schol-
from other distractions such as bullying.
arship offers; last year’s top graduate was offered over $300,000 in scholarships.
Calvary is unique in that students learn to “live together” regardless of age, as the school
Calvary Episcopal Preparatory incorpo-
enters PK-4 year olds and graduates students
rates Christian character education, Bible
in grade 12. Students freely interact, with the
class, Spanish, and library lessons into the
older students mentoring the younger in a
learners’ experience. To schedule a tour of
diverse student body that is accepting of all
the campus, call 281-342-3161 and bring this
faiths and nationalities. (Calvary is an inter-
ad for $100 off the registration fee.
national school and issues the F-1 visa.) Fort Bend Christian Academy The lower and middle grades accelerate the
www.fortbendchristian.org • 281-263-9105
curriculum so that students are instructed a grade above the national average. This
Fort Bend Christian Academy exists to glorify
results in median achievement test scores that
God through excellence in college-prepara-
range from 2 to 4 grades above. High school
tory Christian education. FBCA is a pre-k
students are encouraged to take Advanced
through grade 12 school located on a 35-acre
Placement courses, Dual Credit courses
campus in the heart of Sugar Land, one of
and graduate with a distinguished diploma.
the fastest-growing cities in Texas. As an inter-
Students meet regularly with a career and
denominational school, FBCA welcomes a
college counselor who helps the student
diverse population of
CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 >
EDUCATION SERVICES
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
FORT BEND CHAMBER MEMBERS | EDUCATION
44
Bridge Preparatory Academy
832-886-4940
www.bridgeprepacademy.org
Calvary Episcopal Preparatory
281-342-3161
www.ces-richmond.org
Cornerstone Christian Academy
281-980-0842
www.cornerstonecca.org
DWI Education of Southeast Texas
281-215-4106
www.texasdwiclasses.com
Fort Bend Christian Academy
281-263-9175
www.fortbendchristian.org
Logos Preparatory Academy
281-565-6467
www.logosprep.org
Primrose School of First Colony
281-565-2707
www.primrosefirstcolony.com
The W.I.D.E. School
281-208-9545
www.thewideschool.com
Fort Bend ISD
281-634-1000
www.fortbendisd.com
Katy ISD
281-396-6000
www.katyisd.org
Lamar CISD
832-223-0332
www.lcisd.org
Stafford Municipal School District
281-261-9200
www.staffordmsd.org
Harmony School of Innovation - Sugar Land
281-302-6445
www.hsisl.harmonytx.org
KUMON Math & Reading Center of Richmond - Pecan Grove
281-915-3311
www.kumon.com/richmond-pecan-grove
Montessori Kids Universe Of Bellaire
281-766-8621
www.montessorikidsbellaire.com
Neuhaus Education Center
713-664-7676
www.neuhaus.org
The Honor Roll School
281- 265-7888
www.thehonorrollschool.com
The Tutoring Center, Richmond TX
832-449-3286
www.richmond.tutoringcenter.com
Tutor Doctor
281-533-5300
www.tutordoctor.com/missouri-city-south
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
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 com m un it y can ease the t rans ition and make a new place feel like home. Often, the r ight school choice is determined by the school’s ability to balance academics, extracur ricular opportunities and spiritual values. Fort Bend Ch r i stian Academy, a p r ivate school serving grades pre-k through 12, embodies that balance.
WE TRUST GOD Ch r istian val ues a re a d r iving fo rce i n p a re nt s’ d e c i s i o n to e n ro l l t h e i r children in FBCA. FBCA proclaims that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of G o d. A l l s u b j e ct s a re p res e nte d from a biblical perspective, with the Scripture as the measuring rod of all t r uth. Students i n eve r y g rade level at te n d we e k l y ch a p e l a n d m i d d l e s c h o o l a n d u p p e r s c h o o l s t u d e nt s take theology courses as part of their graduation requirements.
WE PURSUE WISDOM A college-preparatory curriculum is the other primary reason parents decide FBCA is the right school for 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.
WE SHAPE SOCIETY 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 post-graduate degrees in law, medicine, engineering and more.
WE LEAD WITH LOVE Finally, the community aspect of FBCA truly makes it feel like home. Various 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 Is giving back important to your family? At Fort Bend Christian Academy, students learn in a global environment, embrace diversity and develop a passion for philanthropy. Learn more about our unique opportunities to serve locally, throughout the U.S. and abroad. Schedule a visit today!
281-263-9105 | fortbendchristian.org/admissions 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 College-Preparatory Christian Education for Grades PreK-12
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Fusion Academy, Sugar Land www.FusionSugarLand.com • 281-207-9506 A School Built for Your Child. Fusion Academy is a customized one-to-one school that creates a unique program for each child we teach. Students come to our school for an accredited full-time academy that is more personalized than their traditional middle or high school. Others are looking to take single classes for credit, courses to accelerate their
At Primrose School of First Colony, “readiness” means more than just learning how to add and spell. It means learning how to think critically, use mathematical concepts, share and show self-control-skills that support a positive transition to elementary school. Primrose Schools supports the development of social and life skills, as well as executive function. Research shows that executive functioning skills help children establish positive relationships and close the achievement gap.
learning, or they need an alternative schedule to pursue sports and careers in the arts. We offer rolling enrollment, so students can Photo Courtesy of British International School of Houston; Paul Pacey Photography
start at any time of the year, even mid-semester or in the summer. Many students join us during the summer to catch up from a previous semester, get ahead before the fall, or
students who attend more than 100 area churches.
to try something completely new. Our campus is open beyond traditional school
Students at FBCA receive an academically challenging course of study with 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. Spiritually, academically and professionally qualified, all teaching staff are certified educators, many possessing a master’s degree or higher.
hours, so students may supplement their
FBCA features small class sizes, uniforms, a hot lunch program, before and after school programs, enrichment classes, clubs and strong community service involvement. Outside of the classroom, students hold multiple state championships in athletics and fine arts.
Primrose School of First Colony
The school has produced a number of National Merit Scholars, and 100% of graduates enroll in college or enlist in the military, with most students attending their first-choice university. Alumni serve in various career fields, and many obtain post-graduate degrees in law, medicine, engineering and more.
concepts and acquisition of social skills- that
For more information about Fort Bend Christian Academy, contact the Admissions Office at admissions@fortbendchristian.org or call 281-263-9105.
dren who receive a quality preschool, pre-k
46
current education by joining us after school for a single course, as well as tutoring or mentoring. It’s a great way to improve on current skills or to enhance learning at their own pace. If you’re looking for a way to bring a more unique and personalized learning experience to your child, contact the Fusion Sugar Land campus today to see if Fusion is right for your child. Please call 281-207-9506 or visit www.FusionSugarLand.com.
www.primrosefirstcolony.com • 281-565-2707 Primrose Schools has more than 270 accredited, private preschools nationwide, and
The Primrose Schools Balanced Learning System blends academics, play, and character development to build a strong foundation and nurture a lifelong love of learning. In addition to core academic subjects, the curriculum includes enrichment programs in music, physical activity, art, sign language, Spanish, technology and social skills. Parents choose Primrose School of First Colony because of its proven value in preparing children for success in school and in life. Nationally recognized assessment tools and their own research with Primrose parents show that Primrose pre-k and kindergarten students are advanced in social skills and concept knowledge, and therefore more ready for elementary school than many of their peers. Primrose School of First Colony believes that with the right foundation, anything is possible for your child. To learn more about the many lifelong benefits of enrolling your child in the pre-k and kindergarten programs at Primrose School of First Colony. Call or visit the website. Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy www.westlakeprep.org • 281-341-9910
provides a balanced approach to school readiness- a well-rounded preparation in basic gives children the foundation for a future filled with promise. “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. “Chiland kindergarten education develop into well-rounded
individuals
prepared
learning and for life.”
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
for
Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy is a private Christian school dedicated to providing faith-based educational programs which focus on academic excellence and spiritual growth. A college preparatory school currently offering PreK3 - 8th grade with future plans to add a year a grade through 12th grade. West lake equips students to become courageous leaders while serving Jesus Christ in our changing world. Westlake recognizes that your children are your most important possession, and takes the responsibility you CONTINUED ON PAGE 48 >
Primrose School of First Colony YOUR CHILD’S PATH TO EDUCATIONAL DISCOVERY BEGINS HERE We bel i eve w ho ch i l d ren become i s a s i m po r ta nt a s what they know. For over 30 years, Primrose Schools has helped empower children like yours to reach their full potential. Our exclusive, time-tested Balanced Learning approach was created from the best ear ly education w i sd o m of b a l a n ci n g p u r posef u l p l a y a n d n u r t u r i n g guidance to encourage curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Prop rieta r y Cu r riculum: Resea rch - info r med and time-tested Training: We train our people to be the best Equipment: From tables and chairs to toys and books, every piece of equipment is chosen for a purpose Assessment: Highly personalized and tailored to each age level We k now that a chi ld’s inte rests can lead to exciting exploration, discover y and understanding of the world. That’s why our proprietary curriculum integrates language
and literacy; science, technology, engineering, creative ar ts and math (STE AM); social studies; music; physical development and health; and compassion, kindness and life skills continuously throughout the day. Your Child’s Path to Educational Discovery Begins Here E ve r y s ta g e o f y o u r c h i l d’s e d u c a t i o n i s f i l l e d w i t h a g e - a p p ro p r i ate, e n r i ch i n g ex p e r i e n ce s l e d by o u r passionate, committed and caring staff. Infant to Preschool Classrooms: Inspir ing cur iosit y and wonder in the Primrose Wonder Program. Preschool through Kindergarten Classrooms: Encouraging children to venture out and discover the world around them in the Primrose Venture Program. After School Care for ages 5 to 10: Stimulating continued exploration of a child’s individual interests in the Primrose Explorers Program. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL OR VISIT ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS
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.
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F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N
entrust to them seriously. Your child will be challenged and motivated to excel academically in a loving 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
FORT BEND CHAMBER MEMBERS | HIGHER EDUCATION Houston Baptist University
281-649-3206
www.hbu.edu
Houston Community College Southwest-Stafford
713-718-7737
www.southwest.hccs.edu
North American University
832-230-5555
www.na.edu
Texas State Technical College
832-595-8734
www.waco.tstc.edu
University of Houston at Sugar Land
713-743-5975
www.sugarland.uh.edu
Wharton County Junior College
281-243-8412
www.wcjc.edu
As one of the largest institutions of higher
HCC Southwest is home to two centers of
learning in the nation, the Houston Commu-
excellence dedicated to equipping students
nity College System (HCCS) is a recognized
with the skills and knowledge needed for
leader in awarding academic degrees and
a successful career – the Advanced Manu-
workforce certifications. HCC Southwest, the
facturing Center of Excellence based at the
largest of six colleges in the system, has served
Stafford campus, and the Digital and Infor-
the Fort Bend County and southwest Houston
mation Technology Center of Excellence at
communities for more than 40 years.
the West Loop campus.
HCC Southwest is dedicated to bringing the
For more information about HCC South-
highest quality education to the communi-
west offerings and registration, contact one
ties it serves. The college offers programs that
of the HCC Southwest many locations.
A variety of well-regarded institutions offer higher education in Fort Bend County, and residents also have easy access to top-rated colleges and universities throughout the Houston region.
prepare college students for pursuing a four-
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.
can be completed in as soon as six months.
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.
for older adults.
Houston Community College (HCC) Southwest Stafford Campus 713.718.7800 Missouri City Campus 713.718.2900 West Loop Campus 713.718.7868 Brays Oaks Campus 713.718.8600 Gulfton Center 713.718.2966 www.hccs.edu
48
year degree. And for high school students, dual-credit classes and early college high school curricula are available to ready them for a fasttrack career or four-year degree. The programs
The college is home to an Honors College for academically gifted students and the VAST Academy for “differently abled” persons. Students also have access to sports, paid internships, career services and student associations. And lifelong learning opportunities are offered
University of Houston Sugar Land www.uh.edu/sugarland • 832-842-2900 The University of Houston at Sugar Land is UH, Tier One higher education in greater Fort Bend County. UH at Sugar Land welcomes students who are core-complete and ready to pursue studies in our innovative programs, or major in one of the UH programs offered here. We are industry partnered, student-centered and community inspired, serving Houston-area students with state-of-the-art facilities and flexible schedules close to home and work. The University of Houston at Sugar Land
HCC Southwest includes the Stafford,
offers undergraduate, graduate and profes-
Missouri City, West Loop and Brays
sional certificate opportunities for the students
Oaks campuses, and the Gulfton center,
it serves. UH at Sugar Land is home to two
offering a broad array of programs to meet
inaugural programs in Nursing and Digital
the diverse needs of students of all back-
Media. The University has a total of 10 under-
grounds and age groups.
graduate majors from five UH colleges.
With more than 40 foreign countries repre-
UH at Sugar Land is in partnership with
sented in its student body, the college’s
Wharton County Junior College. UH at
Intensive English and English as a Second
Sugar Land is located in Fort Bend County,
Language courses help international students
one of the most diverse counties in the
make a smooth transition to their studies.
country. Our campus spans 270 acres near
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
KICK-START YOUR FUTURE AT HCC
Information Technology Advanced Manufacturing Health Business Art & Design and More Degree & Certificate Programs Offered
HCCS.EDU/APPLY 713.718.2000 | 713.718.2277 @HCCSWcollege
Stafford Campus 10041 Cash Road, Stafford
Missouri City Campus 1600 Texas Parkway, Missouri City
West Loop Campus Brays Oaks Campus 5601 West Loop S., Houston
8855 West Bellfort, Houston
Gulfton Center
5407 Gulfton Street, Houston
F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N
of study in various disciplines, the Sugar Land campus offers the Asso- ciate Degree Nursing (ADN) program and AAS degrees in Computer Simulation & Game Development, Digital Media, Early Childhood, Paralegal Studies, and Law Enforcement. In 2017, the college renovated and expanded its Richmond Campus to accommodate a new cosmetology program and expansion of the existing process technology program. At the Richmond campus, students also take college transfer classes, as well as technical courses that train them in fastgrowing career fields. Numerous fields of study are available that lead to AAS degrees or certificates. the Brazos River. Plan a campus tour by calling 832-842-2900 or visit on your own. 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 certificates, continuing education and workforce development programs. Since WCJC’s founding more than 70 years ago in Wharton, Texas, the college has grown to include four campuses serving about 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 fouryear degrees. Students can choose from an array of core courses and continue their studies at four-year institu- tions. In addition to an AA degree with an emphasis
50
Other Richmond campus programs are in Early Childhood, Emergency Medical Services, Engineering Design, Human Services, Law Enforcement, Business Office Technology, Paralegal Studies, Process Tech- nology, 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, Computer Science, Engineering Design, Office Administration, Early Childhood, Automotive Technology, and Cosmetology. Additionally, the Bay City campus offers transfer classes, plus courses leading to AAS degrees and/or certif- icates in Manufacturing Technology, Nuclear Power Technology, and Process Technology. WCJC has formal and informal agree- ments with many colleges and universities regarding transferability of college credits, helping students to save time and money by taking their core courses for four-year degrees close to home. The college continues to help students achieve their dreams with affordable tuition, smaller classes and personalized attention. To learn more, visit wcjc.edu. New Horizons - Your Partner in Training www.nhhouston.com • 713-552-1414 For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
a leader in IT training. With over 100 locations worldwide, they have grown to become the largest independent training company in the industry. Their career and corporate 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 getting started. Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training and certifications for top technology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being an authorized partner ensures that the students have the highest quality training materials and train on the latest products and technologies available. Courses provided fall into categories like desktop applications, technical training and professional development. Flexible Training Approach Based on Learner Needs - They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy 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 real-time 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, cloudbased lab solutions as well, allowing students to access their labs anytime and anywhere. The state-of-the-art, fully-configured live lab environment provides students hands-on access to the systems and applications taught in the classrooms, empowering them to learn on their own schedules.
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE AT YOUR DOORSTEP
Ser ving southwest Houston and For t Bend County, Houston Community College Southwest comprises five locations offering a wide array of academic programs and workforce enrichment. The credit courses are transferable to four-year universities in Texas while certificate programs can be completed in as few as six weeks. Students enjoy a wide range of services from academic and career advising to admissions assistance to financial aid guidance.
estate, science, psychology, humanities, education, sociology and more.
WEST LOOP CAMPUS
GULFTON CENTER
The West Loop campus at 5601 West Loop S. is home to the Digital and Information Technology Center of Excellence, offering programs such as iOS coding and design, digital gaming and simulation, geographic information science and computer programming. Other areas of study include business, health sciences, art and design, and short-term continuing education courses.
STAFFORD CAMPUS The Stafford campus at 10041 Cash Road comprises the Learning Hub, the Scarcella Science and Technology Center, the Fine Arts Center, and the Workforce Building, which is headquarters for the Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence and a U.S. Department of Labo r- designated Apprenticeship Center. The campus offers manufacturing engineering technology, machining technology, 3D printing and robotics, in addition to IT, science, fine arts, liberal arts, humanities, business and accounting.
BRAYS OAKS CAMPUS The Brays Oaks campus at 8855 West Bellfort serves younger and older students with credit courses and short-term classes to upgrade skills for better careers. The campus offers courses in health sciences, information technology, business, interior design and more. The Gulfton Center at 5407 Gulfton Road offers classes in various levels of English learning including English as a Second Language (ESL). HCC Southwest brings the world of education to your doorstep with quality programs, small class size, affordable tuition and varied pathways to fulfilling careers. For more information and to apply, call 713.718.2000 or 713.718.2277, or visit hccs.edu.
MISSOURI CITY CAMPUS The Missouri City campus at 1600 Texas Parkway offers prerequisite courses for health profession programs from nursing to medical coding to pharmacy technology. Other offerings include IT, business management, real
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in this section retirement communities independent care assisted living memory & extended care
52
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
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-
dreams and plans, and very often, the
offer an array of housing, activity, exercise
selves as seniors (unless they get a discount
energy to pursue them. Of course, people
and social options, to full-care facilities that
if they do). Increasingly, the years after age
with more leisure time can perfect their golf
care for people with mental and physical
65 are more numerous and more active.
swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas,
disabilities, and every-thing in between,
One of the reasons is that Americans are
but these days, they’re also choosing to go
there is a senior living solution to fit every
healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor and
back to school, learn a new language, run
desire and need.
emergency room less, spend fewer days in
marathons, volunteer, or take up a new
hospital and exercise more.
hobby. More people are opting to burn out
TAKING STOCK
rather than rust out.
In order to narrow your options in what
Turning 65 no longer means receiving a
could be an overwhelming list of choices
watch, a party and hearty congratulations
And the options for living and playing
and to help you choose the best one, put
for years spent at a job, only to be put out
are also evolving to meet the changing
some time into the stock-taking process
to pasture to watch the rest of the world go
demands of this growing group of people.
by taking a personal inventory of living
by. Today’s seniors now have many options,
From upscale retirement communities that
expenses, health, interests and expectations.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
53
A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G
• 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? • Would there be any money left over from the purchase of a new home that could be safely invested? • What are the options for downsizing into a less expensive home, renting an apartment, or moving into an assisted living or 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, Budget Inventory: what does it cost to
type of home loan that lets you convert a
or you want to be closer to the place or
live every month? What are you spending
portion of the equity in your home into
activities that you now have time for. Before
on housing or rental; how much does
cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department
you choose your new home, once again,
it cost to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a
of Housing and Urban Development,
take stock. Be realistic about your situation,
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 assess-
HUD offers this federally insured private loan which can give you greater financial security to supplement social security, meet unexpected medical expenses, make
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
ment as you can, so that you can make an
home improvements and more. And,
will enjoy, that it has convenient ameni-
informed decision.
unlike a traditional home equity loan or
ties and access to services, and that a new
second mortgage, you usually do not have
house will be a good investment. If you’re
Lifestyle inventory: How do you want
to repay the loan until you no longer use
still active, you might want to be among
to live? Need more time for golf ? You
the home as your principal residence,
folk just like you. Think carefully before
might want to live on a course. Want to
sell it, or pass away. The money from a
making decisions that will determine your
do some volunteering? You may decide to move closer to the city, school or community center. Want to make new friends?
Many
senior’s
communities
are set up to allow you to do just that.
reverse loan may be paid out in a variety of ways: a lump sum, a regular monthly cash advance, as a credit line account, or any combination of the above. To qualify,
Again, the more careful you are in your
you must be at least 62, and own the home
analysis, the more prepared you will be
outright or carry a mortgage small enough
to make the right decisions.
to be paid off by the proceeds; there are no income or credit qualifications or monthly
SHOULD YOU STAY OR SHOULD YOU GO?
payments, but you are responsible to pay the annual taxes, property insurance and maintenance of the home.
STAY PUT You can retire in your own home by with-
The best way to determine if a reverse mort-
drawing some of the equity you’ve built up
gage is the best fit for your retirement plan is
with a reverse mortgage, which is a special
to honestly assess the following:
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
happiness in the years to come.
ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES If you’re a healthy, independent senior, you may find that you simply want to live in a community where you can enjoy the company of others and your own personal interests. Moving to an active independent living retirement community might be the best fit for your budget and lifestyle, where options include renting an apartment or purchasing a property. Many active senior communities have information packets and offer tours. A personal visit will give valuable, firsthand information
and an opportunity to meet current residents who can share their own experience and insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness programs, organized activities, sporting options, and social opportunities. Other day-to-day living arrangements should also be considered, such as shopping centers and grocery stores within easy walking distance, and the availability of transportation services. Where is the community located in proximity to major health care providers? What security measures are in place for residents? For ultimate peace of mind, you might opt to rent a home under a short-term agreement at first to make sure the community provides for your needs and lives up to your expectations.
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offers care in a residential facility for seniors, with a full menu of services and living situations. Residents may go from independent living, to assisted living and nursing home care, depending on their individual, changing needs and abilities. A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or Communities) generally offers a contract that covers a continuum of care, including access to housing, services, and health care
“
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.
for more than one year, or the balance of one’s life. It is a wise idea to move into a CCRC sooner rather than later, as most require that new residents live independently when they first move in. There is a range of contract options offered by CCRCs. An extensive-care contract is the most expensive, but carries the least risk, providing unlimited long-term nursing care at little or no additional cost for as long as nursing-home services are required. A modified-care contract comes with medium financial risk, and provides long-term health or nursing services for a specified period, after which, the senior or guardian is responsible for additional costs. A fee-for-service contract offers an a-la-carte approach, requiring that residents
”
pay separately for all health and medical services provided by the facility, as well as long-term care. Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus monthly fees thereafter. Some require an equity agreement where seniors purchase a condominium or co-op apartment on the property instead of paying an entrance fee. Less commonly found are CCRC contracts where residents pay monthly fees only. Before signing a contract with a CCRC, conduct a thorough review of the facility’s services, operations and finances, and determine if it is appropriate to your needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also a good idea to ask a family attorney or accountant to review the contract. If the contract is
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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A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G
found agreeable, ask to spend at least one night and two days at the facility, to test drive the community and make sure it is a good fit. Some points to consider include:
• Are pets allowed in your residence?
• What social, recreational and cultural activities are offered?
• Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it?
• Are there fitness facilities onsite?
• Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable?
• What healthcare and personal care services are available?
• What preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations?
• Is there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided?
CCRCs can be anything from high-rise apartments, to cottages, townhouses or single-family homes, and are an excellent option for those who are independent and in good health, but might need some assistance with daily living needs or require skilled nursing care.
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES An Assisted Living Community (ALC) bridges the gap for those who need assistance 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 constant supervision. An ALC offers its residents assistance with eating, bathing, dressing, laundry, housekeeping, and keeping track of medications. They often have centers for medical care, but typically do not offer the extensive medical services provided by a nursing home. An ALC is not a substitute for a nursing home, but rather is a stepping stone between complete independence and services 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
56
ensure changing needs are met. Housing in an ALC may be studios or one-bedroom apartments with small kitchen facilities. Typically, ALC housing units have group dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities.
www.dads.state.tx.us.
While
state
law
prohibits agency employees from recommending one facility over another, they can answer the following recommended questions about any facility:
•H ave there been any proposed license
As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions:
•H ow many complaints have been filed
• Are the grounds well maintained?
• Is the staff friendly?
• Are the residents properly dressed?
• What activities are available?
terminations in the past two years? in the past year? •H ow many complaints in the past year have been found to be valid?
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 recommendations of nearby facilities. Plan on visiting at least four or five area facilities, 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. The home should have clean floors and smell fresh.
•H ow many deficiencies have been cited in the past two years?
•H ow many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years?
•W hen did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit?
•H as the owner of this facility had other facilities recommended for license termination?
The answers to these questions, combined with observations and impressions made during facility tours and staff interviews will allow you to select the right nursing care facility.
ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES Seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease 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
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 facility’s effort to correct them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must make this and other survey compliance reports available upon request, as well as a well-lit place for review.
can give the right level of service. Facili-
Another option available is to contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) at 800-458-9858 or
tive to the needs of the patient. Please visit
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
ties 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| www.agingcare.com for additional information on care for the elderly.
Visit us today at
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
57
in this section moving companies forwarding mail service & utilities public transportation international relocation
58
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
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
consideration your time and effort, as well
in advance about Fort Bend County and
as your physical ability.
the Greater Houston area will make your
TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES Most companies give free estimates based
move much smoother, especially if you are
At the other extreme, the global economy of
on distance and the weight of house-
relocating from out-of-state. To help get
Houston – and Fort Bend County in partic-
hold contents. Some moving companies
you started, the following pages offer some
ular – draws newcomers from all over the
include the costs of packing materials in
general tips on Houston’s basic services.
world, and there are a few important consid-
their bid while others break out supplies
More helpful information on moving is at |
erations to keep in mind when moving from
separately. Packing services, fuel charges,
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
overseas. If your overseas move is work-re-
wait time and temporary storage costs
lated, find out how much of the expense will
may vary considerably so be sure to ask
MOVING COMPANIES
be covered. As a general rule, many experts
about all charges.
If you are moving from out of state, it may
recommend scaling the move down to essen-
be necessary to hire a moving company.
tial items and those with emotional value.
The best time to move is the middle of
Find out about import fees and duty costs,
the month rather than the end or during summer vacation, when moving companies
especially for items you may have purchased
Moving companies offer three types of estimates: the binding estimate, non-binding estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate.
overseas. Also consider the size of your new
The binding estimate lists all items to be
space: will it be larger or smaller than the
shipped and the required services on the
If the move is less than 250-miles away,
home you’re leaving? If you’re a U.S. citizen
estimate form, and the price quoted is the
consider
yourself.
who is moving back from overseas, then you
binding price. Every charge is itemized,
Compare the relative costs of moving
might have many items in U.S. storage, so
so that if an item is added or deleted, it is
yourself versus using the services of a
you’ll need to plan the logistics of getting
easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving
moving company, and be sure to take into
these to your new home as well.
company must also specify the length of
are usually busiest.
making
the
move
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
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 www.southwestmovers.org
or
512-476-
0107, Toll Free: 800-759-2305 • Contact the Better Business Bureau for any complaints that might be on file at www.houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500. • The Interstate Commerce Commission offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and time the price quote is in effect, which is
dates are in the contract. Pick-up and
usually 60 days. This type of estimate does
delivery dates should not be open-ended. Although
moving
companies
provide
liability insurance on household belongThe non-binding estimate, which is the only
ings by the pound, it is wise to purchase
type of estimate offered in some intrastate
extra insurance that provides additional
situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost
coverage, especially for those items that
of services is determined after the truck is
are more valuable.
loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20 percent. Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both before and after furniture and household items are loaded to accurately calculate the total weight. The estimated amount of your move should be entered on each form that is prepared by the mover, including orders for special services and bills of lading. If the amounts are not included, do not sign or accept the document. The third type of estimate, called the not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best. The mover gives a binding estimate, then weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all movers if they offer this type of service.
MORE CONSIDERATIONS
Office of Compliance and Consumer Assistance, Washington, D.C., 20423.
not require additional payment over the amount of the estimate.
Responsibilities When You Move.” ICC
You can also find the brochure on many websites by searching for its title.
FURNITURE AND APPLIANCE RENTAL In some cases, it may be necessary to rent
Before the movers arrive, begin making
furniture or appliances while waiting for
preparations. Take an inventory of your
your old ones to be delivered, or while shop-
belongings and note their condition. If the
ping for new items that will fit your new
moving company performs their own inven-
space perfectly.
tory, check it carefully against your own before signing anything. Should any of your belongings arrive with scratches, dents or other damages, photographs will help verify a claim so consider taking pictures of valuable items or making a video inventory before the movers arrive. It is important to be sure you will be at your new home on the date the moving company is scheduled to deliver. If no one is home to receive the delivery, your belongings will go into storage, and the moving company may require payment in cash before unloading.
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 To submit your change of address go to www.usps.com. The USPS can hold your mail, forward or accommodate a change of address.
Be aware that many moving companies
Tax deductions may apply to your move so
fall behind schedule, so consider hiring
keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S.
LEGAL RECORDS
a moving company that will guarantee a
at 800-829-1040 or www.txdmv.gov, or ask
pickup and delivery date. Make sure those
your tax preparer or attorney.
Legal Records maintained by Fort Bend County include birth certificates, death
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
certificates,
marriage
licenses,
automo-
bile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings,
DBAs,
taxes,
and
more.
Contact the county of residence for specific
Select electricity, natural gas, local phone and long distance, cable or satellite television, and high-speed Internet services at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
a number of these districts throughout
GAS
Fort Bend County and services vary by district. Contact your local city or HOA for detailed information.
services offered. The Fort Bend County Court House
CenterPoint Energy is the major provider
TELEPHONE, CABLE, AND INTERNET SERVICE
is
Heimann
for natural gas in the greater Houston
The Greater Houston area has four area
Circle, Richmond, TX, 77469. Phone:
and Fort Bend County area. As the
codes: 713, 281, 832, and the newest,
281-342-3411. www.fortbendcountytx.gov
regulated utility in the Houston area,
346. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing
CenterPoint Energy owns and maintains
is required. The many telephone service
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.
located
at
1422
Eugene
SERVICE AND UTILITIES ELECTRICITY Retail Electric Providers compete to sell
ciency in new homes. Learn more about
electricity, allowing consumers to compare
buying an ENERGY STAR home at
plans, pricing and features. The Public
www.houstonenergystarhomes.com.
Utility Commission recommends the three
CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS Consolidated Communications is a leading
WATER AND SEWER
business
compare, and choose. Allow several days for
Water, sewage and drainage services are
tions provider serving customers across its
the order to process. If establishing service
typically provided by the public works
11-state service area. Consolidated provides
for a new home or building, a permit or
department in each city, or by a munic-
advanced
inspection may be required.
ipal utility district (MUD). There are
business and residential customers across
“C’s” before selecting a provider: contact,
and
broadband
communication
communica-
solutions
to
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. HOUSTON SW - MISSOURI CITY, TX
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
RESERVATIONS CALL: 281-969-8650
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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
61
R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
their fiber-rich network, which extends
METRO also operates High Occupancy
Texas law requires that the driver and front seat
across California, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas,
Vehicle (HOV) lanes on U.S. 59 South and
passenger wear seat belts. Children eight years
Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Penn-
I-10 West, along with toll lanes on I-10
of age or younger or less than 4 feet nine inches
sylvania and Texas.
West. To share a ride, contact the METRO
tall must be secured in an approved car seat.
Carpool Matching Service, 713-635-4000.
Texas also has a mandatory automobile liability
Founded more than a century ago, the company is dedicated to turning tech-
Fort Bend County also offers express
nology into solutions, connecting people
commuter park and ride services from lots
and enriching how their customers work
in Sugar Land and Rosenberg to the Texas
and live. Consolidated prides itself on deliv-
Medical Center, Greenway Plaza and The
ering a better experience by putting their
Galleria. Go to www.fortbendcountytx.gov
customers’ needs first; building a stronger
for information.
community through employee volunteerism and company giving; and evolving and innovating to meet and exceed the needs and expectations of their customers. Visit www.consolidated.com or call 844-YOUR-CCI (844-968-7224).
TRASH PICKUP Many municipalities, such as Sugar Land and Katy, provide trash pick-up. Call the solid waste department in your jurisdiction to find out which day garbage and light trash are collected.
insurance law, and if a driver is stopped for any reason, proof of liability insurance coverage will be necessary. The insurance required must provide: $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000 per person per accident and $25,000 property damage. A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is available at www.dps.texas.gov.
The Fort Bend County Toll Road Authority operates all or part of three toll roads: the
VOTING
Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road, the Grand
Texas voters must be 18 years old and register
Parkway Toll Road and the Westpark
at least 30 days prior to an election. Those
Tollway. Details are at www.fbctra.com.
already registered to vote but who change precincts need to file an address change. For
The Harris County Motorist Assistance
information, go to | www.votetexas.gov. In
Program (MAP), sponsored in part by
Harris County, call 713-368-VOTE. In Fort
METRO, helps motorists experiencing car trouble on Houston area freeways. The specially marked MAP vehicles are equipped to handle minor automotive emergencies.
OWNING A VEHICLE
Bend County, call 281-342-3411 or visit www.fortbendcountytx.gov.
FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS For emergencies only: dial 911. For non-emergencies: dial 311.
Many subdivisions opt to contract with local
New residents must obtain a Texas driv-
collection companies, and fees for these
er’s license within 30 days of establishing
services are typically included in the home-
residency. Texas residents moving to a new
The Fort Bend County Sheriff ’s Office has
owner’s association dues. Contact your
address within the state must update their
jurisdiction in those parts of the region
homeowner’s association for information.
license as well.
that lie in Fort Bend.
Curbside recycling is offered in most neigh-
To obtain a Texas driver license, take proof
Active Crime Watch programs operate in
borhoods, and drop-off recycling centers are
of registration, proof of insurance, a Social
numerous neighborhoods, and another
located throughout the area.
Security card or a current W-2 form, and
very valuable program known as Crime
a valid out-of-state license to the nearest
Stoppers accepts anonymous tips and
Department of Public Safety office. For
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
license requirements including fees and locations, visit www.dps.texas.gov.
offers rewards for information leading to an arrest. Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers 281-342-TIPS (8477)
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of the
Vehicles may be registered for license
Gulf Coast region, also known as METRO,
plates at district field offices in the county
PETS
is recognized as one of the best and safest
of residence. The cost is based on the
In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing
bus systems in the nation offering an exten-
model and year for cars and gross weight
licenses
sive system of bus routes and a growing
for trucks. Subsequent registration may
impounded. Dogs and cats in Texas must
network of light-rail lines.
be handled by mail or in person. Motor
be vaccinated against rabies by four months
vehicle registration renewals may be
of age. Boosters are given one year after the
METRO provides Park & Ride services
purchased at various locations. In Fort
initial vaccination, and pets will need to be
from two locations in Missouri City. Visit
Bend County, call 281-342-3411 or visit
vaccinated at one- to three-year intervals
www.ridemetro.org for details.
www.fortbendcountytx.gov.
depending on local requirements.
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
and/or
on
a
leash
can
be
CONNECT FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 Fort Bend County..www.fortbendcountytx.gov 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 County Judge..............................281-341-8608
Missouri City..............www.missouricitytx.gov
Sugar Land.................... www.sugarlandtx.gov
Police Department......................281-275-2500 Public Works Department...........281-275-2450
District Clerk..............................281-341-4515
City Hall.....................................281-403-8500 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, TX 77489
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
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
Thompsons ................................281-343-9929 Harris County............ www.harriscountytx.gov
Fire Marshal...............................281-436-8000 Health Department.....................713-439-6016 Sheriff ’s Department...................713-755-6044
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
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.fortbendisd.com
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.com 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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I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
TRANSPORTATION
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. 64
Texas Drivers License Application & Locations: www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/movingtotexas.htm • Texas has a 90-day grace period. • A written & driving skills test required. • C redit cards, cash, checks, and money orders. • Take your passport, social security number, proof of residency, lawful presence, status. • Proof of vehicle registry. • Completed application.
BANKING Credit Unions 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.
Banks 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. • I nternational banks in the USA include HSBC, Citigroup, Barclays, Deustche B ank and Credit Suisse • A n account at one of these banks can usually be opened in the US.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
Credit Card www.creditcards.com • Request a credit card & debit card (ATM) 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 for details). • Rental requirements include: a credit & security check. Texas Drivers license, 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 entire term of your contract. • 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 • You might be expected to take care of the yard on a weekly basis, maintain the property and abide by homeowner regulations. Always check lease agreement.
• Leasing a home is much like renting an apartment. • 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.
Buying a home • You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.
Realtor/Homes for Sale & Lease 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.
visit the Affordable Care Act web page. • You will need your social security number, passport, health history, employer information, and a credit card.
TAXES
Private Schools
Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25 percent sales tax and property tax only.
• HoustonNewcomerGuides.com • Houstonprivateschools.com • Privateschoolreview.com There are a variety of independent and faith-based private schools in the Houston area. • 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 International Baccalaureate program and might be better suited for children planning to later attend university outside the US.
Internal Revenue Service 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. Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov
EDUCATION Day Care: www.childcarecenter.us • Some centers only care for children until 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. Citizenship & Immigration web sites below. Contact your Consulate about your country’s requirements. General How Do I Guides: • www.uscis.gov • 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
social security number, passport, application. • Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different times of the day. Ask for referrals.
Public Schools PK-12 Texas Education Association:
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
• Required for children 6-18 years of age
you arrive.
• You can research individual school
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
www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools
State of Texas
New Homes/Builders/ Communities
HEALTHCARE
College
tea.texas.gov in USA. • Child’s birth certificate, passport, social security number, transcript, doctor’s statement. • The Houston area has excellent public schools which serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade. 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).
PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.texas.gov • 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.
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PLACES OF
WORSHIP If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should easily be able to find a spiritual home in the Fort Bend 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.
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
The Fort Bend 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 Calvary Church - 281-634-0200 12410 Sugar Dale, Stafford, 77477 Christ United Methodist Church 281-980-6888 | 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479 Cornerstone Community Bible Church - 281-313-8555 4771 Sweetwater #137, Sugar Land, 77479 CRM City Fellowship Church 281-313-1213 | PO Box 17538, Sugar Land, 77496 Crossbridge Church - 281-313-8300 1049 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478 www.crossbridge.cc Fellowship of Love Church 281-497-1971 | 10223 Clodine Rd., Richmond, 77407 First Colony Church of Christ 281-980-7070 | 2140 First Colony Blvd., Sugar Land, 77479 First Presbyterian Church of Sugar Land | 281-240-3195 502 Eldridge, Sugar Land, 77478 First United Methodist Church Missouri City | 281-499-3502 3900 Lexington Blvd. Missouri City, 77459 www.fumcmc.org
Fort Bend Church - 281-980-8322 P.O. Box 1057, Sugar Land, 77487 www.thebend.org
Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church 281-342-2989 | 303 N. 10th Street, Richmond, 77406
Fort Bend Community Church 281-499-2131 | 7707 Highway 6, Missouri City, 77459
Redeemer Sugar Land 281-751-8639 | 109 Industrial Blvd. #E Sugar Land, 77478
Fort Bend Family Church 281-495-7377 | 12220-K Murphy Rd., Stafford, 77477
River Pointe Church 281-277-6767 | 5000 Ransom Rd., Richmond, 77469 www.riverpointe.org
Forty Holy Martyrs of Sebaste Orthodox Christian Church 281-240-4845 | 340 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478
Southminster Presbyterian 281-499-2310 | 2310 Brightwater Dr., Missouri City, 77479
Freedom Center Church 281-499-0594 2303 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459 www.thefreedomcenterchurch.com Grandview Fellowship Church 281-961-3378 | P.O. Box 19025, Sugar Land, 77496 Greatwood Community Church 281-491-5588 | 13333 Southwest Freeway, #280, Sugar Land, 77478 Heritage Baptist Church 281-403-4994 | 2223 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459
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 Sugar Creek Baptist Church 281-242-2858 | 13333 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land 77478 www.sugarcreek.net
Holy Angels Lutheran 281-937-0151 | 810 Bent Knoll Court, Sugar Land, 77479
Sugar Land Methodist Church 281-491-6041 | 431 Eldridge Rd. Sugar Land 77478 www.sugarlandmethodist.org
Holy Cross Episcopal Church 281-633-2000 | 5356 West River Park Dr Sugar Land, 77479
The Freedom Center 281-499-0594 | 2303 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459
Holy Family Catholic Church 281-499-9688 | 1510 Fifth Street, Missouri City, 77459
The Lighthouse Church 832-867-4571 | 6650 Rankin Rd., Humble 77396 www.lhhouston.church
Hope Christian Fellowship 281-243-9110 | 4800 Sugar Grove Bldg. #290, Stafford, 77477
First United Methodist Church Sugar Land - 281-491-6041 431 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478
Houston’s First Baptist - Sienna 713-865-7670 | 4309 Sienna Parkway, Missouri City, 77459
Fishers of Men Lutheran Church 281-242-7711 | 2011 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479 www.fishersofmen.org
Logos Christian Center & Bible Institute - 713-541-2740 8690 W. Belfort, Houston, 77031
The Freedom Center Church 281- 499-0594 | 2303 FM 1092, Missouri City 77459
Sugar Creek Baptist Church 281-242-2858 | 13333 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land, 77478
Mosaic Community Covenant Church & Learning Center 713-269-4774 | 4427 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479
Triumph Christian Center 281-242-5109 Word of God Ministries 409-549-2626 | 4318 Kylewood Ct., Port Arthur, 77642 Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center 1700 First Colony Blvd Sugar Land, 77479 Hindu BAPS Mandir 1150 Brand Lane, Stafford 77477 Vietnamese Buddhist Center 10002 Synott Road, Sugar Land *Chamber Members in Bold
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in this section area hospitals major medical facilities dentists
68
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
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
MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITIES
best healthcare in the Houston region. The
Memorial Hermann
world-famous Texas Medical Center is only
713-222-CARE (2273)
about 30 minutes from some parts of Fort
www.memorialhermann.org
Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and Quality from The Joint Commission and the National Quality Forum, the nation’s guard¬ians of health and safety. One of the largest not-for-profit health systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann is
Bend. It’s so close, in fact, that many Fort Bend residents work in this growing complex
Advancing Health in Houston - Memorial
an integrated system that serves South¬east
of hospitals and research institutions.
Hermann has created Houston’s largest,
Texas and the Greater Houston commu-
full-service, integrated health system focused
nity with 19 hospitals*, including four in
on advancing the health of the community.
the Texas Medical Center, a level I trauma
For the system’s 6,000 affiliated physicians
center, a hospital for children, one of the top
and 26,000 employees, it means exercising
two rehabilitation hospitals in the United
uncompromising commitment to deliver
States, an orthopedic and spine hospital.
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
the best health care possible by harnessing leading-edge technology and using the safest methods. For patients, it means having the best tools to prevent health problems as well
facilities offer advanced cardiac care, cancer
as the best chance to regain their health
research and therapy, trauma care, sports
following an illness or injury. It’s no wonder
medicine, and many other innovative treat-
Memorial Hermann is the only Houston
ments. Staff include top ranking physicians,
health system to receive both the National
quality nursing care and highly skilled
Quality Forum’s National Quality Health¬-
support services.
care Award in 2009 and the 2012 John M.
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
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
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 school-based health centers. 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 prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation’s highest Presidential honor for performance excel¬lence. To meet the growing healthcare needs of Fort Bend County, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land recently opened a new 155,000-squarefoot 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, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land offers advanced equipment and state-of-the-art technology to address any healthcare need, from birthing services and emergency pediatrics to sports medicine and orthopedics, including the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute.
FORT BEND CHAMBER MEMBERS | DENTISTS Best Dental
281-762-0637 www.bestdentistinhouston.com
BLVD Dentistry & Orthodontics
281-552-8720 www.blvddentistry.com
C & C Dental
281-242-0241 www.cashionandcodyonline.com
Everything Dental
832-847-6677 www.everythingdentalcare.com
Fort Bend Dental Associates, PA
281-499-3541 www.ftbenddental.com
Luxe Dental Arts
281-969-7456 www.luxedentalartrs.com
RiteSmile Dental
281-565-1800 www.ritesmile.net
Sienna Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics
281-778-5355 www.siennamoderndentistry.com
South Peek Dental Care
832-712-2442 www.southpeekdentalcare.com
Sweet Tooth Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics
832-280-4410 www.sweettoothsmile.com
Sweetpea Smiles Practice Solutions LLC
281-566-6100 www.sweetpeasmiles.com
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
Area residents can now stay close to home for increasingly complex healthcare issues and receive high-quality care delivered by 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-of-the-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
70
ventures with five other hospital facilities. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 281-274-7500 www.houstonmethodist.org/sugarland Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is Fort Bend County’s leading health care provider, offering skilled, compassionate care supported by the most advanced technology – all in a convenient, comfortable and healing environment. Since opening in 1998, Houston Methodist Sugar Land has continually expanded to add new facilities, services and technology to meet the community’s changing needs. Today, the hospital’s campus houses:
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
• Three patient care pavilions with 347 beds and 27 operating rooms • Specialized centers for breast care; cardiology and vascular care; emergency care; 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 the impact that a hospital stay can place on several sessions throughout each day. Anyone is the only hospital in Fort Bend County to 18 or up with an illness/injury will receive friends and family members. Smoking Safety achieve Magnet Recognition® as a reflection daily medical oversight with physician visits, Smoking only allowed in to specified outside the Patients must always wear wr As is Fort Bend continues grow, andarea health of its nursing professionalism, teamwork care by certified rehab nurses and therapy building. purposes. Patients must be ac care moves forward, Houston Methodist and superiority in patient care. The Amersessions with specialized speech, occupational
Welcome
Sugar Land Hospital will continue to grow ican Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) member when outside the bu and physical therapists. Telephones ® and change, too – investing in the communiMagnet Recognition Program distinguishes teams ofthat therapists, nurses, physicians* and It’s our pleasure to rigorous welcome you to Encompass With the 2015 acquisition of Encompass ty’s health and well-being ensuring Telephones are located inOur alland patient rooms. Payment organizations that meet standards Health Home Health &strive Hospice, Formerly localLand. residents have a support first-class choice for members are thoroughly experienced andpayment p for nursing excellences. Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sugar We to make Parking HealthSouth remains committed in the medical care. knowledgeable in rehabilitation. We are one of the We’re committed to offering the compassion, Hospital personnel are availa In addition to an outstanding staff, more community and is excited to celebrate this Please contact us if you need special parking arrangements. leading providers of inpatient rehabilitation expertise and support patients and their families families or other responsible Encompass Health Rehab than 1000 top-quality physicians — reprepositive direction for their community. Their
services and maintain the highest safety andand need their rehabilitation goals. procedures www.encompasshealth.com senting to thereach full range of medical specialties leadership wants people to know that requirements the Visiting hours cleanliness standards, all to ensure you receive — combine I CARE values with a level of SugarlandRehab • 281-276-7584 ownership and management of the company We welcome visitors, as they are invaluable in providing Groups You’ll have a rehabilitation expertise, knowledge and skill that isteam secondto provide you remains the same. Support As Encompass Health exceptional care. encouragement and support during your rehabilitation. Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospito none. aboutinour support groups they will not alter theAsk excellence care. Our with a personalized treatment plan targeting your Weekday are 8:00am to 8:00pm Weekend tals visiting nationallyhours and in Texas have remained employees pride their selves in caring for our We hope this brochure answers any questions you specific needs and goals. This comprehensive Over the years, Houston Methodist Sugar providing a higher level of care visitingcommitted hours areto 8am to 8pm patients in their ownQuestions community and or provide concerns have about your stay. If you have additional program will have giveachieved you the direction, knowledge Land physicians many of Fort to the communities they serve. highest levels that patients have come to expect. concerns, let us contact know. We’re dedicated toquestions o and to help reach your of outside Bend tools County’s medicalyou firsts, including a highest If you expectlevel visitors of those please hours, please Please share any As a JACHO certified disease specific in-panumber of the most sophisticated surgical your care and look They forward to helping you move physical, social and emotionalarecovery. that our physician, name changeyour will case ma case manager or nurse to make arrangements. Ourare excited your tient rehabilitation hospital with medical advancements in specialties such as cardicontinue to help “encompass” patient care as forward with your recovery. patients are scheduled for therapy sessions throughout the or the hospital administrator. management specializing in the care of ology and neurology. These developments our company grows in a positive direction. day on weekdays and frequentlyCare on and weekends, so please way we can. Strokes, Amputations, Wound Hip have allowed Houston Methodist Sugar Land * The hospital provides access to independent physicians. make sure friends and family are aware of your schedule Fractures and other illnesses. They provide Encompass Home Health & Hospice agento offer state-of-the-art, life-saving procedures close to home for Fort Bend patients, reducing 3hrs of therapy days a week broken up into cies in Texas are also set to transition to the when planning their5visits.
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
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sugar Land has been committed to a higher level of rehabilitative 0 .-9 S . care for our patients. Under our new name, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sugar Land, U T AL we continue to provide the same inpatient rehabilitation services you have come to expect, while also Sugar Land Regional extending our care to include home health and hospice in your area. Airport Admission/discharge RR
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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 from each environment of our state-of-the-art rehabilitation gym. y Rehabilitation requires a strong commitment r First Land 1325 Highway 6 ito N
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
Encompass Health name. You can contact your nearest location for more information. Sugar Land Health Center www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com Sugar Land Health Center is a family owned
offer natural treatment for every layer of the body, which addresses the problem area and all the areas effected by the injury. The whole body is connected and with our sophisticated technology and variety of treatment methods they are able to experience breakthroughs in pain relief and in health stronger than ever before.
practice whose mission is to help people find natural healing and pain relief. They believe in serving our community and offering the best to their patients. The spine is an important and integral part of your body. When pain occurs, they don’t just treat the symptoms and look at it from face value. They look to the cause of the pain and offer treatment to promote long term health. If there’s pain, that’s frequently an indicator that there was a preexisting problem or injury. They
Dr. Steve Harris is a chiropractor who opened Sugar Land Health Center in Sugar Land, Texas, in 1982. Dr. Harris offers chiropractic care, pain relief, spinal decompression, rehabilitation, knee pain relief, joint pain relief, back pain relief, and orthotics. He is also trained in a highly effective and uncommon technique in myofascial muscle work. A humanitarian and philanthropist, Dr. Harris is known for his kindness and compassionate approach. Patients love his caring bedside manner and report successful
results from treatment. Dr. Harris graduated from Logan Chiropractic College in Chesterfield, Missouri in 1976 and has been practicing continuously since that time. As the first chiropractic clinic in Sugar Land, his goal was to establish a place of wellness and provide healing for the community, and he has continued to strive toward those goals for 40 years. In addition to providing direct patient care, he teaches spinal disc decompression techniques to other professionals in the field and is active in the community, working on various philanthropic and humanitarian projects. For more information on what we offer for your condition and those in pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Harris, call 281-980-1050.
FORT BEND CHAMBER MEMBERS | HEALTHCARE AFC Urgent Care
832- 600-8007
www.afcurgentcare.com
Apex Urgent Care Richmond
877-257-2739
www.apexurgentclinic.com
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sugar Land
281 276-7574
www.encompasshealth.com/sugarlandrehab
Full Circle Chiropractic and Wellness Center
832-987-1715
www.fullcirclechirowell.com
Gee Eye Care
281-778-9912
www.geeeyecare.com
Hogan Chiropractic, PLLC
281-240-2225
www.hoganchiropractic.com
Houston Eye Associates
281-565-2020
www.HoustonEye.com
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital
281-274-7500
www.houstonmethodist.org/sugarland
Inter-Active Health Care, Inc.
281-892-2000
www.inter-activehc.com
Kelsey-Seybold Clinic
713-442-9100
www.kelsey-seybold.com
Memorial Hermann First Colony Hospital
281-277-0911
www.memorialhermannfirstcolonyer.org
Modern Acupuncture
713-540-6000
www.modacu.com
Modern Spine, PLLC
713-774-6337
www.modernspinetx.com
Next Level Urgent Care
713-732-0944
www.nextlevelurgentcare.com
OakBend Medical Center
281-238-3900
www.oakbendmedcenter.org
RediClinic
833-423-7334
www.rediclinic.com
Solis Mammography
346368-4479
www.solismammo.com
St. Michael's Emergency Rooms
281-980-4357
www.24hrer.com
Sugar Land Med-Ped Clinic, P.A.
281-491-2555
www.sugarlandmedped.com
Sugar Land Primary Care Physicians
832-564-3526
www.slprimarycare.com
Sugar Mill Chiropractic and Acupuncture
281-494-1690
www.sugarmillchiro.com
Texas Oncology, PA
281-277-5200
www.texasoncology.com/sugar-land.aspx
Texas Regional Health & Wellness
281-208-7335
www.texasregionalhealth.com
UT Physicians
713-486-1200
www.utphysicians.com
Westpark Pediatric Dentistry
832-924-7275
www.wppediatricdentistry.com
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
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Convenient, Quality
PRIMARY CARE Access Houston Methodist primary care at a location near you. Our board-certified doctors provide personalized care for you and your family — including physicals, immunizations and preventive care — along with access to our network of world-class specialists. Many of our practices offer: • Convenient locations • Most major insurance plans accepted • Online scheduling • Same-day appointments Visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 281.930.6639 to schedule an appointment.
1093 Long Meadow Farms
59
99
8
Sugar Land
6 Riverstone Sweetwater Sienna SiennaPlantation Plantation
in this section local chamber of commerce major employers Houston by the numbers
74
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
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 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Business and Professional, Healthcare and Members Services.
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce www.FortBendChamber.com
The Fort Bend Chamber was awarded with 5-Star Accreditation by the US Chamber of
Bend County. Since Fort Bend began its
Located in the diverse Fort Bend County,
Commerce for its sound policies, effective
transformation from a largely rural agricul-
The Fort Bend Chamber is the largest
organizational procedures, and positive
tural county into a regional economic and
single county chamber in the Houston
impact on the community. Only about
cultural powerhouse several decades ago,
region and serves as the advocate for busi-
1.5% of the over 7,000 chambers in the
a number of chambers of commerce and
ness excellence in Fort Bend County. The
United States earn this stringent accred-
economic development groups have worked
Chamber creates, enhances and promotes
itation. The Chamber’s prestigious Fort
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
Bend Leadership Forum program produces
FORT BEND MAJOR EMPLOYERS
graduates who serve in leadership positions throughout the county.
LOCAL EMPLOYEES
LINE OF BUSINESS
Fort Bend ISD
11000
fortbendisd.com
Lamar CISD
4500
lcisd.org
Fort Bend County
2941
fortbendcountytx.gov
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital
2637
houstonmethodist.org/sugarland
Fluor Corp.
2430
fluor.com
EMPLOYER
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 provide a countywide calendar of events for the community to serve. The Young Professionals Division ensures that
Schlumberger Technology Corp.
2007
Oak Bend Medical Center
1200
the Chamber is delivering value to the
slb.com
future leaders of Fort Bend County. With the implementation of their Diversity
oakbendmedcenter.org
Action Team and the Get Your Business
Nalco Co. Energy Services Division
1100
ecolab.com/nalco-water
on the Map Google Partnership, “Success
Frito-Lay North America Inc.
941
fritolay.com
the motto of the Fort Bend Chamber that
Texana Center
867
texanacenter.com
Bend as one of the fastest-growing coun-
Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital
846
memorialhermann.org/locations/katy
nation’s top 20 counties for economic and
City of Sugar Land
804
sugarlandtx.gov
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital
618
memorialhermann.org/locations/ sugar-land
The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce’s
CHI St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital
454
stlukessugarland.com
on local, state and federal issues affecting
Pentair Valves & Controls LP
450
pentair.com/valves
is just around the bend” continues to be plays an instrumental role in shaping Fort ties in the United States, and one of the population growth. FortBendChamberVotes.com Government Affairs Team advocates and intervenes on behalf of the membership job creation, economic development and the overall vitality of the Fort Bend County region. A key component of this advocacy is
Ben E. Keith Co.
419
benekeith.com
Sunoco Logistics Partners LP
403
sunocologistics.com
Tramontina
400
tramontina-usa.com
Texas Instruments Inc.
375
12201 Southwest Fwy.
NRG Energy Inc.
370
reliant.com
National Oilwell Varco Inc.
350
nov.com
Chart Industries
344
hudsonproducts.com
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 Coca-Cola Co. Minute Maid
76
The City of Sugar Land is an award-win-
338
ning community ideally located just 20
coca-colacompany.com
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
miles southwest of downtown Houston.
– ISSUE 1
Sugar Land has achieved its sustainable,
Through its Fort Bend Convention and
economic vitality and ensure quality
strong local economy through an aggressive,
Visitors Services division, the Fort Bend
development in Fort Bend County. It
focused economic development program
Chamber provides visitors and new resi-
provides a wide array of information and
that creates new wealth and jobs. As a
dents with resources that highlight the
free services designed to help businesses
regional employment center, with over 25
many great amenities and attractions in
understand and then act upon the tremen-
million square feet of commercial space, the
Fort Bend County. Under the Chamber’s
dous advantages and opportunities of
City is home to high-profile corporations
banner, the Farmers Market at Imperial
relocating or expanding their commercial
including Minute Maid, UnitedHealthcare,
operates year round and is the largest certi-
operations in Fort Bend.
Texas Instruments, Schlumberger, Fluor
fied farmers market in Texas. The Sugar
Corporation, Noble Drilling, Tramontina
Land Wine & Food Affair attracts about
USA, First Data/TeleCheck, Nalco Cham-
10,000 wine and food aficionados to Fort
pion and Bechtel EO.
Bend each year, making it one of the largest such events in the nation. The Chamber
Sugar Land has also uniquely positioned itself
markets the county’s ever-growing collec-
as a hub for premium shopping, dining and
tions of restaurants, hotels and attractions
entertainment. Venues such as the Houston
to local, regional and national audiences
Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land,
as well as prospective visitors and event
Constellation Field, the future Smart Finan-
convention planners.
the Sugar Land Visitors Center at Imperial Market will further establish the community as a cultural and historical destination. Fort Bend Convention & Visitors Services www.fortbendchamber.com/about-us
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
cial Centre at Sugar Land live entertainment venue, the Sugar Land Heritage Museum and
The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com
received from Fort Bend, Harris, Cham-
Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council www.fortbendcounty.org
bers, Galveston and Brazoria counties, as well as from TxDOT and the Metropolitan Transit Authority. It is governed
The Greater Fort Bend Economic Devel-
by a seven-member board of directors
opment
public-private
appointed by the Texas Transportation
partnership established in 1986 to promote
Commission. The first segment of the
Council
is
a
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77
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
Grand Parkway opened in Fort Bend
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
County, connecting U.S. 59 South to I-10 West. The Grand Parkway is now open all the way to U.S. 59 North as part of the vision to create a 180-mile outer loop to 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
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
the strongest and most diverse economies in Texas. The Stafford Economic Development
Phoenix
61,439
New York City
25,910
Corporation was created in 1999 to promote
Detroit
61,826
Los Angeles
41,996
ects enhancing economic development.
Austin
61,375
Chicago
50,705
San Francisco
33,401
Las Vegas
54,455
Boston
40,832
Portland
45,498
Highway 90-A, Stafford’s “Main Street.”
Denver
53,759
St. Louis
63,697
Visit Sugar Land
Miami
52,467
Raleigh
65,105
Pittsburgh
59,757
Cincinnati
64,818
Dallas
61,311
Charleston
58,336
and expand commerce and to finance projTwo of its most noteworthy accomplishments include Stafford Centre, a performing arts theater and convention center, and the major improvements and amenities on U.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 2019
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LIVE THE GIG
Delivering 1 Gig speed to your home through fiber-to-the-home technology. Discover new and exciting things the Internet has to offer with CCI! If your home is like most, you have multiple devices tied to one Internet connection in your home. These devices can be TVs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, printers, home security systems or game consoles. The more devices you have connected to your Internet connection, the more overall speed you need to support them.
Consolidated Communications, Inc. (CCI) offers 1 Gig service*, which is equivalent to 1,000 Mbps, and is among the fastest connections available to residential customers across the nation. The 1 Gig service gives you the freedom to do more.
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TO FIND OUT MORE PLEASE CALL 844.YOUR.CCI OR VISIT CONSOLIDATED.COM.
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
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 2019 – ISSUE 1
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 have
arts, theatre and restaurant scenes offer
Fort Bend County works hard – that’s how
to play too. And in vibrant Houston, fun
exciting experiences every day.
it got to be one of the most prosperous and fastest-growing counties in the nation. But
activities abound, with annual events such as the world’s largest rodeo, the nation’s
One of the best websites for finding
Fort Bend also knows how to relax and
largest renaissance festival and the coun-
out about special events in Houston is
have fun – whether it’s celebrating tradi-
try’s quirkiest event, the art car parade. The
www.visithouston.com, the official site
tions dating back more than a century, or
city’s diverse personality shines through
of the Greater Houston Convention and
enjoying new events showcasing the coun-
with buoyant events like the Chinese New
Visitors Bureau. The website includes a
ty’s many new attractions and diverse
Year, Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth and
visitor’s guide, interactive maps, coupons
ethnic traditions. Fort Bend is a place
GLBT Pride Celebration. It’s often said
and discounts, and itinerary ideas. One of
where a 20,000-acre working ranch with
that Houston doesn’t cherish its history,
its most popular features is the Houston
historic homes and costumed actors thrives
but that’s not the case with traditions like
CityPass, which provides admission to 5
side-by-side with one of the nation’s largest
the 80-year-old Azalea Trail and numerous
of Houston’s top attractions at a substan-
Hindu temples. That’s today’s Fort Bend –
historic home tours. Plus, Houston’s rich
tial discount!
and it’s incredible.
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ATTRACTIONS & Family Fun
Photo courtesy of Smart Financial Centre
The Houston area is an impressive cultural and entertainment center. It features nine world-renowned performing arts organizations, countless museums and a multitude of activities and outdoor attractions for the whole family.
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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens www.mfah.org/visit/bayou-bendcollection-and-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
anywhere. Ditto for the very popular café. Group tours are available. Central Green www.willowforkdrainagedistrict.com/ parks-trails/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 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 galleries carry a wide array of unique items. The garden shop, with plants and flowers grown by residents, rivals the best nurseries
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 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. George Ranch Historical Park www.georgeranch.org
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 livestock. Tracing history that began in 1824, it is open daily. Special events such as the Texian Market Days Festival and Spring Break activities are offered year round. George Memorial Library www.fortbend.lib.tx.us The main library in the Fort Bend County Libraries System, this Richmond facility 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. Hermann Park www.hermannpark.org Arguably Houston’s “Central Park,” this 445-acre park is wedged between the Museum District and Medical Center. In recent years, Hermann Park has received a a major face-lift and additional attractions such as the McGovern Centennial Gardens. The McGovern Centennial Gardens features 15-acres of rose gardens, an interactive family garden, a 30-foot garden mount,
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
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 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 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 Zoo www.houstonzoo.org 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. Sugar Land Auditorium www.slcaf.org The last remaining public building from the original company-owned town of Sugar Land, this 1918 auditorium was built for the newly established school district. It showed movies and plays, and held dances on the rooftop. Recently restored to its original splendor, the 394-seat auditorium is available for rental. Sugar Land Ice & Sports Center www.sugarlandice.com The only dual rink facility in the Houston region, it offers public skating and is home
84
to the Sugar Land Imperials 3HL ice hockey team. During the holidays, the Nutcracker on Ice musical is performed.
scientists and mission specialists at work and in training via live video hookups. The theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature space flight films.
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 popular gathering spot for residents to enjoy year round festivals and special events. McGovern Centennial Gardens & Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion www.hermannpark.org
MUSIC+THEATER 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
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.
in productions of the classics, modern
Moody Gardens www.moodygardens.org
www.fortbendtheatre.com
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.
friendly productions throughout the year
Space Center Houston www.spacecenter.org
brings first-class entertainment and cultural
plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces
more
performances
than
all
other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District. Fort Bend Theatre 2815 N. Main, Stafford, 77477
Founded in 1989, this theatre offers family on weekends. The troupe also performs children’s plays for schools and preschools. Summer musical theatre camps are another popular offering. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex
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
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
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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
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Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually.
Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, 77002 www.tuts.com
Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.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.
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. The Smart Financial Centre 18111 Lexington Blvd, Sugar Land, 77479 www.smartfinancial.net
Photos Courtesy of Children’s Museum
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
86
The Smart Financial Centre is a state of the art venue that opened in 2017 with multiple performances by Jerry Seinfeld. 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. Society for FINE the Performing Arts Jesse H. Jones Hall: 615 Louisiana St, Ste. 100, Houston, 77002 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. 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.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
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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.
MUSEUMS The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com 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. 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.
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com
Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center
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.
Praised for opening the curious minds of
Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org 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 Museum of Houston will not leave anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place for families to play, laugh, learn and grow. Contemporary Arts Museum Houston 5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org The Contemporary Arts Museum of Houston is an institution dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Patrons of every age will appreciate the collections of work and dynamic exhibitions on display. CAMH also offers special programs and educational opportunities. Admission is Free. Fort Bend County Museum 500 Houston St., Richmond, 77469 www.fortbendmuseum.org
SHOPPING
198 Kempner St, Sugar Land, 77498 www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org
Brazos Town Center Reading Rd & Us-59, Rosenberg, 77471
children who come to explore, imagine and engage, the Fort Bend Discovery Center is
Colony Square 16762 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, 77479
housed in a repurposed building within the historic Imperial Sugar factory. It is patterned after the Children’s Museum of Houston,
First Colony Mall 16535 Southwest Freeway, Suite 1 Sugar Land, 77479
rated America’s No. 1 children’s museum and a must-do for families in the area.
First Colony Marketplace 3350 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478
The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org
Fort Bend Town Center SWC Fort Bend Pkwy. & Hwy. 6 Missouri City, 77459
The Health Museum is Houston’s most interactive science learning center and a
Fountains on the Lake 12520 Fountain Lake Cir. Stafford, 77477
member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind
and the McGovern 4D Theater.
Highland Square 3219 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir. Katy, 77494
in the country. Popular exhibits include: DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion
5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, 77494
www.hmns.org As one of the most heavily attended
Lake Pointe Town Center U.S. 59 at Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479
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
Missouri City Shopping Center 5950 Highway 6, Missouri City
the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly
Murphy Road Shopping Center 510 Murphy Rd. Stafford, 77477
Center and a fascinating variety of permanent exhibit areas that examine astronomy,
Plaza Shopping Center 2816 Avenue H, Rosenberg, 77471
space science, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and
Riverpark Shopping Center 20030 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, 77479
minerals, Texas wildlife and more. Proclaimed as one of the best showcases of local history in Texas, this museum in 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.
Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land
Sugar Land Town Square Us-59 & Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479
13016 University Blvd, Sugar Land, 77479 www.hmns.org
Town Center Lakeside Us-59 & Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479
Housed in the preserved historic Central State Farm building – formerly a prison dormitory – this museum includes five permanent exhibit
Williams Trace Shopping Center Highway 6 & Williams Trace Blvd. Sugar Land, 77479
halls with over 1.5 million objects. Special exhibits bring in some of the best museum offerings from across the U.S. to Fort Bend.
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Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org The Holocaust Museum Houston is dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors’ legacy. The Holocaust Museum Houston has a permanent exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers,” as well as other pieces of history.
masonry structure invites visitors to learn
Imperial Sugar Land Events
about events that shaped Texas history.
www.imperialsugarland.com
Sugar Land Heritage Foundation & Museum
Imperial Sugar Land hosts many events,
www.slheritage.org
including a weekly Farmer’s Market on
The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation began as a group of citizens working to preserve Sugar Land’s remarkable history. Today, this organization collects historical artifacts, documents, and photographs for display for the public to enjoy. Exhibits are being designed to highlight Sugar Land’s legendary
The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org The Menil Collection houses both permanent collection and welcomes special exhibitions. Making art accessible to all is vital to their mission, so no admission fee 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 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. Rosenberg Railroad Museum 1921 Avenue F, Rosenberg, 77471 www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org
past and phenomenal future. The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation is working with
Field. The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center features child-centered learning exhibits & special events, Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Smart Financial Centre Events www.smartfinancialcentre.net This
helped make Sugar Land what it is today to
January 2017 with back-to-back perfor-
continue the growth of the museum.
mances by comedian Jerry Seinfeld. Visit
state-of-the-art
venue
opened
in
their website to see the year’s full calendar of
E V E NTS
concerts, festivals and family friendly events.
Fort Bend Museum Events
Sugar Land Skeeters
www.fortbendmuseum.org
www.sugarlandskeeters.com
The museum offers many popular annual
Sugar Land can watch their very own minor
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
hosts
several
season tickets, mini-plans, group tickets,
www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/events 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.
live at Constellation Field. Skeeters offer
Sugar Land Town Square Events
www.fulsheartexas.gov Fulshear
league baseball team take on their opponents
fundraising and Indicidual game tickets.
Several different events and
festivals are hosted by the city with enter-
San Jacinto Monument & Museum www.sanjacinto-museum.org
88
shine as well as events at Constellation
Sugar Land companies, past and present, that
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.
Site of the battle that won Texas independence from Mexico. The world’s largest
Saturdays 9:00 A.M. -1:00 P.M. rain or
tainment to draw crowds of all ages. George Ranch 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.sugarlandwineandfoodaffair.com The Sugar Land Food and Wine Affair is a
www.georgeranch.org
flagship event of the Fort Bend area. The
George Ranch hosts many events through
Wine and Food Affair brings a cultural food
the year, including a Mother’s Day at
and beverage experience right to the Fort
the Park – Tea & Targets, a Juneteenth
Bend area that is second to none. Money
Celebration & Historic Lunch, a Labor
raised at the Sugar Land Food and Wine
Day Backyard BBQ, 34th Annual Texian
Affair benefits a scholarship endowment at
Market Days Festival, Campfire Christmas,
the University of Houston Conrad N. Hilton
Christmas in the Park and much more. Visit
College of Hotel and Restaurant Manage-
their website for details.
ment and the AFWF Foundation.
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
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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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
PR OF E S S I O N A L S P O R T T EA MS 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. The Houston Astros hold the 2017 World Series title. 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 Texans www.houstontexans.com Football is huge in Texas and the Texans are huge in Houston. In their 17th season, this
90
Photos Courtesy of the Houston Texans
NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012,
Sunday football is celebrated in NRG
2015, 2016 and 2018 AFC South Division
stadium cheering on the team, tailgating
Champions. Head coach Bill O’Brien has
with friends in the parking lot before and
put together an exciting roster that includes
after the game, at many sports bars around
fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, Deshaun
town, or in front of your own television.
Watson and plenty of new up-and-comers.
Go Texans!
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
The Houston Rockets
Open Cup, fans have lots to cheer about as
www.houstonrockets.com
this team continues to rank well both at home and internationally. The Dynamo play in
The Houston Rockets are the city’s profes-
BBVA Compass Stadium, an architecturally
sional
acclaimed venue, located east of downtown.
National
Basketball
Association
team playing in the Southwest Division of
League Championships. Home games are played at Constellation Field, located in Sugar Land, Texas.
G OL F
the Western Conference. Two-time world
Sugar Land Skeeters
Winters in Houston are mild and temperate,
basketball champions, the Rockets are
www.sugarlandskeeters.com
with the average high in January (the coldest
regular challengers in playoff action and always provide exciting end-to-end action
The Sugar Land Skeeters is an expan-
in the Toyota Center. Many star players
sion minor league baseball franchise and
have passed through the team’s roster over
competes in the Atlantic League of Profes-
its almost-fifty-year history and now James
sional Baseball. The Skeeters play 140 regular
Hardin and the rest have launched the
season games (70 home, 70 away) in the
Rockets back into competitive contention.
Atlantic League, considered the highest level of Minor League Baseball. Atlantic League
The Houston Dynamo
players are “Major League ready” and in the
www.houstondynamo.com
last 16 years, over 600 players have graduated from Atlantic League clubs to Major League
Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Hous-
organizations, making the League a preferred
ton’s Major League Soccer Team. The team
route for experienced players to be scouted by
name is reflective, in part, of Houston: an
Major League Baseball.
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 municipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack 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 profes-
energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions,
The Skeeters Hold the 2014 Division Cham-
sionals and First Tee Programs are offered
and more recently winners of the 2018 U.S.
pionships and the 2016 and 2018 Atlantic
throughout the greater Houston area.
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
PA RK S Brazos River Park 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. 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.
City Park
Duhacsek Park
Park facilities include a pool, five lighted
This 50-acre park site was donated to the city
baseball fields, a lighted and covered skate
by the late Walter and Virginia Duhacsek.
park pavilion, benches and bike racks, four
This homestead is filled with huge hand-
lighted tennis courts, a playground, batting
grafted pecan trees. It holds the third largest
cages, drinking fountain, grills, benches,
pecan tree in Texas. This facility is available
picnic tables, restrooms, a sand volleyball
for reservations for groups up to 40 people.
area, horseshoe pits, covered picnic shelter,
Located at the intersection of Voss Road and
concession stands and meeting room. The
Old Richmond Road. The facility consists
pool is 25-yards long, ranges 3-12 feet in
of 60 parking spaces, a large pavilion with
depth and has two 1-meter diving boards.
picnic tables and two restrooms.
Cullinan Park
Eldridge Park
Cullinan Park is one of the largest nature
This 43-acre community park is located
parks in the Houston area, and is located in
on Eldridge Road near the West Airport
Sugar Land. Enjoy the wildlife found along
intersection. The park facilities include a
Oyster Creek. Several nature trails allow
community meeting room for 65 people,
visitors to explore the flora and fauna of the
picnic pavilion, restrooms, grills, benches,
park. Cullinan Park is a large magnet for
picnic tables, .40 miles of trails, fishing pier,
varieties of birds, and is a popular birding
concession stand, playground, 10 soccer
spot for many in the area. The park has two
fields, five-acre pond and 500 car parking
large lakes and picnic areas and plenty of
lot. The pond is stocked with bass, crappie
wildlife and greenery to take in.
and catfish.
PRIVATE
PUBLIC
GOLF COURSES
92
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
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
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019
– ISSUE 1
for special events. The stage area of the park can be reserved for private functions.
First Colony Park
Lost Creek Park
This 22-acre park is the site of a 3,000 square
This 21-acre park includes seven soccer fields
foot conference center. This park contains
(6 youth- 4 lighted, 1 adult- not lighted, 2 prac-
seven lighted and two unlighted baseball
tice fields) for youth and adults, a large play
fields, batting cages, three concession stands,
structure for children from 2 to 12, a meeting
a playground, drinking fountains, grills,
room which can accommodate 40 people,
benches, 368 parking spaces, restrooms,
a covered picnic pavilion with a concession
picnic tables and picnic pavilion.
stand, restrooms, and parking for over 300
Sugar Land Memorial Park
Located adjacent to the Imperial Park
track offering youngsters and teens another
Recreation Center, this 44-acre park is the
way to stay active outdoors can be found at
home of the Sugar Land Girls Softball Asso-
Lost Creek Park. This three-mile hike and bike
ciation. The park facilities include parking,
trail is accessible from Lexington Blvd., Dulles
nine softball fields, batting cages a nine-hole
Ave., and Hwy 6. In addition to the Greenbelt
disc golf course, playground, picnic area,
trail, a water feature with rock lined falls and a
drinking fountains and restrooms. Disc golf
pond is constructed near the Hwy 6 entrance,
is similar to traditional golf. Instead of a ball
adjacent to Oyster Creek. Emergency call
and clubs, however, players use a disc, or
boxes exist along Oyster Creek Trail. This
Frisbee. The nine-hole course located in the
facility includes: 78 parking spaces, 5 picnic
southern, undeveloped portion of the park
tables, drinking fountain, grills, benches and
winds through existing trees. Golfers must
public art elements. Restroom facilities are
The 420-acre park is located along the Brazos River between U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard with the park entry at the intersection of Commonwealth and University Boulevards. Included in the first phase are two and a half miles of 8-foot wide granite gravel walking/jogging/biking trails, 2 picnic pavilions, restroom buildings, parking areas, playground, dog park, Justin P. Brindley mountain bike trail, open space for sports activities and a lake. The lake is stocked with Large Mouth Bass, Bluegill and Channel Catfish. Visitors may fish in the lake with a valid fishing license. Consult your local tackle shop or Texas Parks and Wildlife for license information and bag and size limits. The park is home to the Veterans Memorial Remembrance Tower. This is a unique and iconic feature of the park. It includes the names of Sugar Land soldiers
bring their own discs.
available and a stage/amphitheater covering
killed while in active duty.
vehicles. The three-mile Oyster Creek Trail Imperial Park & Disc Golf Course
is accessible from Lost Creek Park. a .9-mile lighted loop trail circles the park site. A BMX
GOLF | TENNIS | FITNESS | POOL | DINING
It Just Keeps Getting Better
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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, we are pleased to announce the completion of Phase 2. This Multi Million Investment includes a new Fitness Center, refurbished Tennis Complex, Brand New “Kids’ Quarters” and Installing Better Billy Bunkers on the final 18 holes.
(281) 494-9131 | TheSugarCreek.com HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
93
Delicious
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:
Aling’s Chinese Cuisine 281-242-0432 www.alingschinese.com Another Broken Egg 832-886-4857 www.anotherbrokenegg.com Avenida Brazil Churrascaria Steakhouse 281-277-9292 www.avebrazil.com
Bellagreen 281-565-1175 www.rugglesgreen.com Big 6 Bar B Que LLC 713-530-8268 www.Big6barbque.com BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse 281-242-0400 www.bjsrestaurants.com Bombay Pizza Express 281-277-4992 www.facebook.com/bombaypizza Brookwood Community 281-375-2100 www.brookwoodcommunity.org Buffalo Wild Wings - Sugar Land 281-313-9464 www.buffalowildwings.com Chick Fil A 832-632-8800 chickfilasiennacrossing.com Chick-fil-A at Missouri City 281-261-7100 www.cfamocity.com Chick-fil-A at Stafford 281-564-0062 Chick-Fil-A Sienna Crossing 832-632-8800 chickfilasiennacrossing.squarespace.com Churrascos 832-532-5300 www.cordua.com Chuy’s 281- 277-0156 www.chuys.com Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill 281-313-3144 www.fadiscuisine.com Fish City Grill 281-494-3474 www.fishcitygrill.com Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen 281-470-7900 www.gringostexmex.com Italian Maid Cafe & Catering 281-341-1587 www.italianmaidcafe.com
94
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Jason’s Deli 281-565-3737 www.Jasonsdeli.com Jimmy John’s 281-265-0808 www.jimmyjohns.com Kelley’s Country Cookin’ 281-277-3367 www.kelleysrestaurant.com La Cocina Mexican Restaurant 281-238-0872 www.lacocinarestaurant.com La Escondida Mexican Grill 281-403-3306 www.LaEscondidaGrill.com Louisiana Fried Chicken 346-309-2768 louisianafamousfriedchicken.net Lupe Tortilla - Sienna Plantation 281-771-1101 www.tex-mex.com López Mexican Restaurant 281-686-3094 www.vivalopez.com Malawi’s Pizza 281-709-6235 www.malawispizza.com
Michelle’s Kitchen 346-309-4090 www.michellekitchen.com Muscle Maker Grill 281-725-1705 www.musclemakergrill.com Nothing Bundt Cakes 281-491-2253 www.nothingbundtcakes.com
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Southwest Houston 832-928-5897 www.raisingcanes.com Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Sugar Land 281-980-9860 www.raisingcanes.com Sleek Chocolatier and Cafe 281-207-9687
Off the Vine Bistro 281-242-4186 www.offthevinebistro.com
Spring Creek Barbeque 281-499-8222 www.springcreekbarbeque.com
Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza 281-494-0747 www.papamurphys.com
Taco Bell 281-491-4329
Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza 281-778-8227 www.papamurphys.com Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 281-565-2727 www.perryssteakhouse.com Piada Italian Street Food 614-288-8366 www.mypiada.com
Taco Cabana 281-740-5305 tacocabana.com Texas Biergarten 281-778-0030 The Swinging Door 281-342-4758 www.swingingdoor.com Zoes Kitchen 281-277-6215 www.zoeskitchen.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
95
ad index CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION SERVICES
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce..................................... 9
HAR.com............................................................................... 77
CHURCHES First United Methodist Church Missouri City....................... 29
EDUCATION British International School of Houston.............................. 43 Calvary Episcopal Preparatory.......................................... 42 Fort Bend Christian Academy............................................ 45 Fort Bend Independent School District.............................. 40 Fusion Academy Sugar Land............................................. 41
Keller Williams Southwest..........................36-37, Back Cover RE/MAX Cinco Ranch..................................................... 30-31 RE/MAX Legacy Living......................................................... 23
HOTELS Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Missouri City ....................... 61
MUNICIPALITIES City of Meadows Place....................................................... 15 City of Rosenberg................................................................ 17
Houston Community College....................................... 49, 51
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS
Primrose School of First Colony........................................... 47
First Colony Community Association.................................. 20
Wharton County Junior College............. Inside Front Cover
FOOD & BEVERATE Big 6 Bar B Que .................................................................... 95 San Luis Spirits Distilling Co. LLC.......................................... 85
HEALTHCARE
Johnson Development.......................................................... 1 Kingdom Heights.................................................................. 21 Pomona By Hillwood Communities...................................... 5
RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.............................. 25 Houston Rockets................................................................... 91
Encompass Health............................................................... 71
Schlitterbahn ....................................................................... 35
Houston Methodist Primary Care Group........................... 73
Sugar Creek Country Club.................................................. 93
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land........................................... 7
Sweetwater Country Club.................................................. 90
MD Anderson Cancer Center.............................................. 3
UTILITIES
Sugar Land Health Center....................... Inside Back Cover
Consolidated Communications......................................... 79
To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Does Chiropractic work? Put your pain & health in the hands of experience. “I had 6 herniated discs from a car accident. Dr. Harris helped my dad get out of a wheelchair and he gave me my life back!” - Zahra Kamdar
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Chiropractic | Chronic & Acute Pain | Disc Problems | Pre-Post Surgical Cases | Weight Loss 3425 Hwy 6, Suite 101, Sugar Land TX 77478 | info@sugarlandhealthcenter.com | www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com | @sugarlandhealthcenter
281-980-1050
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