37264 ABSOLUTELY FOCUS MEDIA

success around the bend

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JOE Freudenberger

January/February 2020

Inside

Green Building Trend

Diversity

Strength or Weakness?

OakBend Medical Center

Election

CEO

2020

Leads by Example

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 1 Houston, TEXAS

Pancho, Amy, Greg, Ford and Isabella Hill.

JUDGE US BORDER PATROL AGENT TEXAS CONSERVATIVE Experience, Education and Preparedness “Many are qualified to serve, and truly all that is required to adequately serve another is to have the heart and willingness to do so. It requires a desire to want to do for others, and I have always had this desire. Aside from that, I have a wide range of experience that has served me well, from teaching high school Spanish, to serving our country as a U.S. Border Patrol Agent, to working in the private sector, later running my own business and finally serving since 2011 as a local council member, Mayor Pro-Tem for the largest city in Congressional District 22, and then Countywide Judge. Of course, college and later law school, and all other forms of education, were growing points that have helped prepare me, and I have enjoyed serving others along the way.”

Passion for Service “I am passionate about serving and helping others. One of my favorite quotes is, ‘If serving is below you, leadership is beyond you.’ When serving on Pearland City Council, I enjoyed when folks would call me to get things done. This could be something as small as making a call to have a constituent’s trash picked up when a vendor mistakenly missed their home or having an asphalt overlay done when potholes became an issue on someone’s street. It is good to be in a position to help and to have that desire to help. From a public policy standpoint, and as a congressional candidate, the issues are a bit broader now, but still afford the need to be addressed, and can impact the voter on a local level. I believe that we need adequate immigration reform. I believe that we need adequate health care reform, and not a one size fits all model, and certainly not socialized medicine. I believe that that the radical left is moving, by their own admission and resolve, to a socialist form of government. I believe that this is contrary to what our country is based on, and contrary to the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness that our founding fathers carved out for us in the preamble and creation of the United States Constitution. I am also pro-life and an advocate for all of our Bill of Rights.”

For

U.S. Representative Texas 22nd Congressional District Immigration “The same challenges exist today that existed in the mid90s when I served as a Border Patrol Agent. We need more Immigration judges, we need to do a better job of enforcing the laws that we have on the books, and we need to streamline the process to become a resident alien and naturalized citizen. We are a country founded upon immigrants and should welcome immigrants to come in through the front door and assimilate to the American principles and ideology that have made us a great nation. A border wall is important, but not the end all be all.

Proverbs says, ‘He who builds a wall invites destruction.’ A wall alone will not cut it. We must seek a way to protect our borders with a wall, adequate enforcement and solutions.”

Philosophy of Leadership “I believe we need a leader who will draw people in and passionately prove an ability to get things done for the good of others. It is important to have that and especially to have that from someone representing us in Washington D.C. We must be the model and light that others turn to, and not for our benefit, but rather for theirs. I have always said, ‘Wake up every morning and thank God for giving you the desires of your heart, and continue throughout the day delighting in him, turning over your desires to him. Go to sleep reflecting on how God has blessed you throughout the day. Then, trust in the Lord and wait patiently for him, and repeat.’ We need this kind of maturity and understanding.”

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Cover Story

Contents January/February 2020 Vol. 3 / No. 1

Exclamation Points 4

Publisher Patti Parish-Kaminski

Op-Ed 5

6

CEO Joe Freudenberger.

Diversity – Strength or Weakness?

Executive Insights

9 There’s Nothing “Trendy” about the Green Building Trend

OakBend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger Leads by Example

Oenophile

12 Great Red Wine Values

Political Profile

10 Primary Decisions: March 2020 11

2020 Election

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce:

Business Briefs 14

Take Control of Credit Scores

Success Around the Bend

Globetrotting

Columns 19

15

2020 Personal Financial Planning Calendar

20 2020 Bucket List of the Best Places to Travel: Paris

P u b l i s h e r : Patti Parish-Kaminski A C C O U N T E X E C U T I V ES : Henry Dibrell l Kay Garrett l Jessica Kij l Anna Rawa A R T D IRE C T O R : Grace Belleza W EB D ESI G N ER : Joey Belleza E D I T O RI A L A SSIS TA N T: Stephanie Thorpe I N Q UIRIES : 281.690.4242 e d i to r i a l SUB M ISSI O N S : Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com Subscription requests are free to all Fort Bend business addresses.

Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside the Fort Bend area.

Fort Bend CEOTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright© 2020 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Fort Bend CEOTM Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Fort Bend CEOTM Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

Exclamation Points

Publisher, Patti Parish-Kaminski

Contributors

Bob Hebert Robert Hebert and Associates page 5

Jim Rice Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. page 9

Patti Parish-Kaminski Fort Bend CEO Publisher page 10

Denman Moody theadvancedoenophile. com page 12

Alisa Murray AlisaMurray.com page 20

Primary Colors As we move into 2020, parts of Fort Bend will have already participated in a Republican runoff for House District 28, the seat held by Republication Dr. John Zerwas since 2007. The winner of this runoff – Gary Gates or Schell Hammel – will face off with Democratic candidate Elizabeth Markowitz in the November general election. But, for many Fort Benders, March 3rd marks the first election in 2020: the primary.

By its very definition, the word primary means “first or highest in rank of importance,” thus emphasizing the significance of this initial election to elect candidates from each party. Christmas came early at absolutely! focus media Yet on average, voter turnout during when Congressman Pete Olson stopped by to primary elections is traditionally lower present a copy of the House of Representatives Congressional Record from December 11, 2019 than during presidential and midterm where Olson officially congratulated Fort Bend Focus Magazine on their 15th anniversary elections.

The primary election is the most covering the people, places and happenings in Fort Bend on the House floor. Thank you Pete important race kicking off Election for the amazing gift, and yes, it was National 2020 – the race where voters select Ugly Christmas Sweater Day! the individuals representing them on the ballot in November barring any runoffs. In this first issue of the new year, Fort Bend CEO takes a look at some of the more notable primary races, along with a helpful Election 2020 Calendar to help make certain you don’t miss an election date.

The year 2020 also marks a major milestone in this month’s cover story. Five years ago, OakBend Medical Center began a capital campaign called Vision 2020 with a goal of renovating the 70 year-old institution. In our cover story, we talk with OakBend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger about the progress of the Greater Houston Area’s only remaining independent hospital and he and his team’s focus on patient outcomes.

I hope focusing on outcomes – positive, successful, meaningful, mindful – is something we can all fill the new year with. Our best resources in business, in philanthropy, in family and even in going to the polls, are each other. Ronald Reagan said, “We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.”

Your partner in the Bend,

Read all past issues at www.fortbendceo.com 4

Patti Parish-Kaminski Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

COVER l CEO Joe Freudenberger COVER PHOTO l By Alisa Murray Photography

January/February 2020 l To advertise: 281.690.4242 l www.FortBendCEO.com

Op-Ed

By Bob Hebert

Diversity –

Strength or Weakness?

F

ort Bend community leaders speaking publicly are often quoted saying that diversity is our strength, while they privately worry about how one ethnic group or another may negatively impact the future. It is true that the Kinder Institute at Rice University reports that, as of 2018, the Fort Bend population was comprised of 35% Anglo, 24% Hispanic, 21% Asian/Other and 20% Black. The U.S. Census Bureau says that makes Fort Bend the most diverse county in America. So, the question seems to be: Is diversity a strength or a weakness? I believe it is neither. Diversity in Fort Bend County is simply a fact. Diversity’s ultimate impact on Fort Bend County is and will be what we, all of us as a community, make of it.

Making something positive out of our diversity is easier done today than in our past. The Irish who came to America in the mid-1800s were nearly all semi-literate farmers. They offered little economic value to America but a strong back and a willingness to work. Worse than that from protestant America’s perspective, they were Roman Catholics.

For different reasons, the Chinese brought over to build the western railroads were subjected to forced and dangerous labor for long hours and small wages, then shunted into Chinatowns throughout the western states and forgotten. Similar stories can be told of Italian and Eastern European immigrants of the late 19th and early 20th century. In each of the cases, these groups persevered and gained acceptance as equals within their larger communities, but only after many decades of effort under difficult circumstances.

Today, the majority of Fort Bend’s immigrant and second generation families is well-educated, and many are talented professionals, while others are smart and ambitious entrepreneurs willing and able to take financial risk. As a whole they have significant positive economic impact on our community. That gives us a common ground on which to build positive relationships that earlier immigrant groups did not enjoy. But true strength comes with mutual commitment to one another, not just positive economics, and that takes individual effort by everyone.

As County Judge I had the opportunity to interact with first or second generation families from around the world. I had the privilege to join them in their churches, temples, mosques and synagogues as they worshipped in their own way. I discovered that they hold the same core values of personal responsibility and duty to family as I do, and that they were warm and friendly to me and mine. I learned new ways to look at things foreign. For instance, I had always seen the Lion Dance as a challenging, entertaining athletic exercise, which it is, but I discovered that it is also a prayer for good fortune and a happy life for all those who observe it.

Fort Bend is assimilating and adapting to its diversity far quicker than communities in the past, but we can do better if we work harder at the individual level. I am suggesting that you take a risk and reach out to neighbors whose ethnicity differs from yours. Don’t just confront the next one you meet, but do react when opportunity arises to invite a co-worker or a fellow PTA parent to coffee or lunch or a backyard barbeque. Respond positively if the offer comes from them. Ask questions, learn from the experience. Together, you and your neighbor can create a small brick of understanding and respect to place in that tower of diverse strength we must construct if Fort Bend is to remain the diverse, prosperous community it is today.

The views and opinions expressed in Op-Ed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Fort Bend CEO. Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.

January/February 2020 l

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COVER STORY

By MG Angulo

CEO

Joe

Freudenberger

Leads by Example

T

he philosophy Joe Freudenberger lives by easily weaves its way through his personal and professional life. As

a married father of three adult children, he considers every day as an opportunity to actively better himself, and as the CEO of OakBend Medical Center, Freudenberger stresses that he feels motivated to improve every single day.

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OakBend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger at the kick-off of OakBend’s Vision 2020 Campaign.

“We’re in the business of making a difference by saving and changing lives,” said Freudenberger. “We don’t have the latitude to stop improving, because if we do, we are failing our patients.”

A person needs less than three minutes with Freudenberger to understand distinctive and solicitous patient care is central to his ambitions as OakBend CEO. “We have a lot of technology to diagnose and treat patients,” he said, detailing current digital medical equipment in use today. “This technology can improve the outcome of a patient’s health more so than what could be done for patients 50 or 100 years ago. And yet, as we use more and more of this technology, we have engaged the patient less and less. The patient is the most powerful tool we have.”

When Freudenberger was named the CEO of OakBend Medical Center in 2007, he immediately set about to change the culture of the hospital to focus on its most powerful tool. The crux of the change was to treat the patient as the leader of their health care team.

“Having patients involved with their recovery is beneficial for everyone,” he said. “When a patient is proactive in their care, they will have a better outcome and experience, as will the caregivers.”

However, this new culture he was building would completely alter the traditional health care provider model, so new models for patient care, hiring, business and staffing had to be developed.

Additionally, the messaging, leadership and staff development tools needed to be updated, as well as the equipment.

January/February 2020 l To advertise: 281.690.4242 l www.FortBendCEO.com

The shift to patient-centered care was not an easy one and resulted in a number of employees leaving the hospital. “Culture change is always a significant challenge,” Freudenberger said, but he did not falter in meeting the trials of the change head-on. For those willing to stay and try a new approach, Freudenberger demonstrated how changing the culture worked and encouraged those on the leadership team to give it a try.

And when they did, they began to understand the vision the new CEO had. “I am energized by challenges,” Freudenberger said. “The ability to resolve seemingly intractable problems is what I consider my greatest strength.”

The Pursuit of Excellence It is common knowledge that Freudenberger is in constant pursuit of excellence – but not for recognition or awards. Rather, his drive is fueled by his commitment to evolve OakBend to next level in patient engagement and outcomes. He confirmed that he holds himself to high standards and holds employees to the same expectation.

“I am committed to the community, to being a philanthropist and being loyal to staff and the Board,” Freudenberger said.

“As CEO I try to set the example that hard work and commitment to excellence is the most direct pathway to being successful.”

Whether the employee is clinical or non-clinical, the role of every person at OakBend is to save lives, he said. It is a mantra that has served the hospital system well over the past 13 years since Freudenberger’s arrival.

In addition to improving patient engagement at the hospital, Freudenberger’s efforts grew OakBend from $160 million in gross revenues to $1 billion in 10 years; expanded locations from six to over 50; and installed innovative programs including No Wait ER and the Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit. OakBend now has three hospitals, is the largest health care system based in Fort Bend County, and the only remaining independent hospital in the Greater Houston Area.

Being a part of a team that helped two independent nonprofit hospital systems sustain their missions and thrive is what Freudenberger considers his greatest professional accomplishment. Only one other achievement, a personal one, can rival it: “Courting my wife, Laura, of 35 years and raising three amazing children to adulthood,” he said.

Joe Freudenberger, Allison Capetill, Bhavisha (BJ) Patel, Michelle Ziakas, May Tape and Norma Petrosewicz at the Stepping Out Against Stroke in March 2018 at the George Park in Richmond.

Community Involvement O

akBend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger said some of the most rewarding experiences in his life come from his involvement in the community. For 10 years he was a coach, umpire and president for Westbury Little League, and for eight years, he was involved with the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, serving as treasurer, vice president and then president.

Freudenberger has also held board memberships with the Fort Bend Economic Development Council, Polly Ryon Foundation, OakBend Health System and T.W. Davis Family YMCA. And for the past eight years, he has been on the board of The Child Advocates of Fort Bend, where he is still active. “All of my community service efforts have been and continue to be phenomenal experiences,” he said.

Freudenberger is also a member of Healthcare Financial Management Association, American College of Healthcare Executives and was named the 2017 Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Gulf Coast Region, Health Care winner and was named an Honoree in the Houston Business Journal’s Most Admired CEOs. For more information on Freudenberger and OakBend Medical Center, visit www.OakBendMedCenter.org.

The Work of a Leader

Norma Petrosewicz with Laura and Joe Freudenberger at the 10th Anniversary of OakBend Medical Center Williams Way Campus.

Prior to his leadership at OakBend Medical Center, Freudenberger had a powerful impact as a chief financial officer for 11 years and as a health care consultant for 10 years. A snapshot of his career’s progression reads like a dossier of major feats.

At Memorial Health Systems of East Texas, where he was CFO for six years, Freudenberger re-engineered the operations and culture of the $500 million health care system of four hospitals, raising net income from a $9 million loss to an $11 million gain in five years.

January/February 2020 l

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Joe Freudenberger standing in front of the Vision 2020 Donor Wall, located in the main hallway toward the patient elevators.

The plaque on the right states, “With great appreciation for the generosity of community members committed to creating a first-class healing environment for all of our patients.” The wall recognizes donors who have given $1,000 or more to OakBend’s Vision 2020 Campaign.

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“Pushing for improvement can be challenging,” said Freudenberger, who spearheaded the transformation of OakBend’s culture during the worst downturn the health care industry had seen in 100 years. “But the challenge is worth it when the cause is right, he said, mentioning the hospital’s mission – To provide exceptional, compassionate health care for our community, regardless of ability to pay Visit www.OakBendMedCenter.org for more information about OakBend Medical Center.

Photos by Alisa Murray Photography.

In the year he was CFO for Myron F. Steves & Co. – a privately held nationwide insurance wholesaler – he eliminated a $500,000 deficit and achieved budgeted profits of $2,000,000 in six months. And in the four years as CFO at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center, Freudenberger directed organization-wide customer service enhancements, resulting in the emergency department service ranking rising from the first percentile to 75th percentile.

As a senior manager for Deloitte & Touche Management Consulting for a decade, Freudenberger managed a project to re-engineer operations for a 2,000-bed urban teaching hospital system, and in doing so increased revenues by 50 percent, collections by 60 percent and reduced accounts receivable by 50 percent.

“My mom would say I sought leadership from the day I was born,” Freudenberger said with a chuckle.

Leaders, he said, can focus in the middle of the storm. They are able to solve significant problems, especially those viewed as unmanageable, and have the ability to encourage and develop people. Freudenberger said he is such a leader, but the statement falls humbly from his mouth. “No leader is any stronger than the team they work with.”

Every month around 100 hospital leaders gather for sessions of professional development, and it is at these events when Freudenberger provides updates on the hospital’s achievements and challenges. It also serves as an opportunity for employees to ask questions, address issues and work toward solutions.

As CEO, Freudenberger said he strives to provide the hospital’s leaders with the tools to continue the hospital’s vision.

For example, during those monthly development sessions, a specific leadership characteristic is discussed. The sessions, he said, help the employees grow into a collaborative team that strives for excellence.

Joe Freudenberger, Ashley Sanders and Eunice Caluag.

January/February 2020 l To advertise: 281.690.4242 l www.FortBendCEO.com

By Jim Rice, LEED AP BD+C, CxA

“G

Executive Insights

There’s Nothing “Trendy” about the Green Building Trend

reen.” “Sustainable.” “Eco-friendly.” These words have become a part of the modern lexicon, applied to everything from the cars we drive to the food we eat. Sometimes they’re used so often it can be hard to remember that they actually are more than just buzzwords. The environmental challenges the world faces have never been greater. Soon, over nine billion people will share our planet; increasing demands for resources, energy and infrastructure are pushing nature to its limits. The impact will only continue to magnify as our global population does the same.

No industry should be more aware of this than construction – not only is it the top global consumer of raw materials; it also generates between 25 to 40 percent of the world’s carbon emissions.

Fortunately, not only has the industry taken notice, it’s taken action. According to a 2018 study, the majority of projects in the next three years will be green buildings. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) also notes that between 2011 and 2014 green construction generated $167.4 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In fact, the green building sector is outpacing the overall construction industry in growth and is estimated to maintain traction into the foreseeable future.

It’s safe to say that green building isn’t just a passing trend.

While the long-term benefits to the planet are obvious, are there any other incentives to “go green?”

Green construction practices can be used as a competitive business edge. Companies are looking to set themselves

apart and establish themselves in terms of corporate responsibility. Signs telling visitors about a building’s environmental footprint have become common place in lobbies throughout the United States.

Beyond bragging rights, green buildings have less upkeep costs and lower utility usage. Energy and water savings are perhaps the most obvious, and easiest to comprehend, benefits of green certification. Not only are you saving the planet; you’re saving money.

Green buildings are better for the long-term health and productivity of those who use the building. Occupants who moved from conventional to green office buildings were found to have reduced absenteeism, as well as a positive change in health conditions, such as respiratory allergies, depression and stress.

Still trying to rationalize adopting greener building practices? The USGBC states that upfront investment in green buildings is proven to make properties more valuable – building owners can expect to see at least a 10% increase in asset value.

These statistics show that embracing the green movement is not just responsible business, it’s also good business. For more information on getting LEED certified, call Rice & Gardner Consultants.

Jim Rice is the founder and president of Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. Rice is a LEED Accredited Professional, a CxA-Certified Commissioning Authority with the Associated Commissioning Group (ACG) and a Certified Building Commissioning Professional with the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). Rice has extensive experience in managing a wide array of projects for a variety of clients.

January/February 2020 l

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Political Profile

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

T

his year marks a unique election year across America, but especially in Fort Bend. While the March 3rd primaries will lead up to the general election featuring what many assume will be President Trump’s reelection bid, Fort Bend voters will decide in the March primary on candidates in some interesting and notable races, including US Congressional District 22, a county commissioners’ contest and a run for Fort Bend County Sheriff among others.

Primary Decisions: March 2020

US Representative District 22 One of the most closely watched primary contests is expected to be the race to replace retiring Republican Representative Pete Olson for US Congressional District 22. The field of candidates is vast, including the recent addition of Pierce Bush from Houston to emerge as the latest member of the Bush family to enter politics. Bush’s race will be a crowded one as he is one of 15 Republican candidates seeking the Republican win. Other Republican candidates seeking the congressional office include former Brazoria County Judge, Pearland City Councilmember and former US Border Patrol Agent Greg Hill, Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls, who has had his eye on the seat for some time, and conservative activist Kathaleen Wall, who recently purchased a home in CD 22.

Other Republicans seeking the CD 22 seat include Bangar Reddy, Douglas Haggard, Howard Steele, Dan Mathews, Matt Hinton, Brandon T. Penko, Diana Miller, Shandon Phan, Joe Walz, Aaron Hermes and Jon Camarillo.

The Republican primary winner will face one of five Democrats vying for the CD 22 nomination, including Democrat Sri Preston Kulkarni. Kulkarni ran against Representative Pete Olson in 2018 in a close race with Olson retaining his seat. Other Democratic candidates include Pearland City Councilman Derrick Reed, Chris Fernandez, Nyanza Davis Moore and Carmine Petricco, III.

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County Commissioner Precinct 3

Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 3 W.A. “Andy” Meyers will face off in the March primary with two opponents.

The Republican incumbent will run against Wendy Duncan, Willow Fork Drainage District board member, and Glenn “Harry” Gustafson. The winner will face the lone Democratic candidate, Air Force Veteran Hope Martin, in the November 2020 election.

Fort Bend County Sheriff Six candidates filed to replace incumbent Republican Troy Nehls, who is running as a Republican Congressional District 22 candidate, and the list includes Nehls’ twin brother. Trever J. Nehls is currently serving as Fort Bend County Precinct 4 Constable, which leaves the position open for two Republican and two Democratic primary candidates. The Republican candidates for Precinct 4 Constable are Mike Nguyen and current Chief Deputy of Precinct 4 John G. Hermann. The two Democratic primary candidates are Precinct 4 Deputy Constable Joseph “Joe” Villareal and Harris County Constables Office Precinct 4 Deputy Nabil Shike.

Other candidates vying for the Republican nomination for Fort Bend County Sheriff include Houston Police officer Siddiqi Muzasffar and former Chief of Police John Minchew.

Democratic primary candidates for Sheriff include retired Houston Police officer and former president of the African American Police Officers’ League Eric Fagan, Army veteran and former commander of criminal investigations for the Missouri City Police Department Geneane R. Hughes and Navy veteran Holland Jones. Jones served as a former captain for the office of Harris County Precinct 7 Constable.

January/February 2020 l To advertise: 281.690.4242 l www.FortBendCEO.com

Texas House District Races The race for District 26 has been making headlines as State Representative Rick Miller resigned in December from seeking another term after making racially charged comments in a December 3rd Houston Chronicle article. Miller was quoted as saying his two primary opponents, former Fort Bend GOP Chairman Jacey Jetton and Houston Fire Department analyst Leonard N. Chan, joined the race because they are Asians targeting a district with a substantial Asian population. Soon after the newspaper printed the article, Governor Greg Abbott and Fort Bend County GOP Chair Linda Howell withdrew their endorsements of Miller.

The primary now includes three Republicans: Jacey Jetton, Leonard N. Chan and Matt Morgan. The winner will face one of four Democrats: consultant Rish Oberoi, State Board of Education member Lawrence Allen, community activist L. “Sarah” DeMerchant and physician Suleman Lalani. DeMerchant is married to Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 4 Ken DeMerchant who was elected to office in 2018.

Other Texas house primary races include Democrat incumbent District 27 State Representative Ron Reynolds running against Byron Ross. The winner will face one of two Republican candidates in the November election: Tom Virippan and financial analyst and CPA Manish Seth.

Additional Primary Races In the race for Fort Bend County Attorney, Republican Steve Rogers does not have a primary opponent. He will face the winner of the Democratic primary candidates Sonia Rush, David Hunter and Bridgette Smith-Lawson.

In the Tax Assessor-Collector race, the Republican primary candidates are Phillip Andrews, J.J. Clemence, Jaison Joseph and James Pressler. The winner will face one of two Democratic primary candidates: Neeta Sane and Carmen Turner.

For more information on the candidates or the upcoming March 3rd primary, visit the Fort Bend County Republication Party at fortbendgop.org and the Fort Bend Democratic Party at fbdemocrats. com.

If

getting organized is one of your New Year’s Resolutions, here’s a list of the most important election dates this year, because Election 2020 is shaping up to be a busy voting year.

February 3rd: This is the last day to register to vote and be eligible to cast a ballot in the March primaries. Are you already registered to vote? To check your status or to register to vote, visit www.votetexas.gov/register-to-vote.

February 18th – 28th: Early voting starts in the Texas primaries and will continue for 10 days. Check www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locations and times.

February 21st: This is the last day to request a ballot to vote by mail in the primaries. Individuals are eligible to vote early by mail in Texas if they are: • 65 years or older; • Disabled; • Out of the country on election day and during the period of early voting by personal appearance; or • Be confined in jail but otherwise eligible.

To request a ballot to vote by mail, go to www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter.

March 3rd: Primary Election Day! For voters who did not vote early, check www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locations.

April 27th: With so many candidates, there’s bound to be runoffs, which happen when a single candidate does not cross the 50% threshold in the March primary. This is the last day to register to vote and be eligible to cast a ballot in the primary runoffs.

May 15th: Individuals meeting the criteria to vote early by mail may do so in the primary runoffs as well. This is the last day to request a ballot to vote by mail for the primary runoffs.

May 18th – May 22nd: Early voting in the primary runoffs. Voters can only participate in one party’s primary each year.

May 26th: Primary Runoff Election Day. This is the voter’s last chance to be heard in who the Republicans or Democrats nominate in any runoff races. Check www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locations.

July 13th – 16th: Democratic National Convention (DNC). Delegates will convene to officially select and nominate their picks for the Democratic presidential ticket. Typically a single candidate is a standout before the DNC, but it is possible that no candidate wins a majority of delegates in the primaries, and the party will have a contested convention on its hands.

August 24th – 27th: Republican National Convention (RNC). Republican Party delegates will convene to officially select its presidential ticket. As of press date, President Donald J. Trump is likely to lead the ticket on the Republican side of the ballot.

October 5th: Still not registered to vote? This is the last day to register to vote in the general election.

October 19th – 30th: Early voting period for the general election. Check www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locations.

October 23rd: This is the last day to request a ballot to vote by mail for the primary if you are eligible for early voting.

November 3rd: Election Day 2020. Check www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locations.

January/February 2020 l

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Oenophile

By Denman Moody

Great Red Wine Values

In

the last three months of 2019, I tasted about 200 red wines looking for great values in all price ranges. Most of the wines were good to very good, and I’m sharing my favorites just in time for Valentine’s Day. All were tasted with the proper glassware. Pinot Noir glassware is the most important in order to get the full benefit of the beautiful bouquet and taste of Pinot Noir. The following wines are outstanding: Vale do Bonfim Douro DOC (Portugal) 2017

Decoy Zinfandel Sonoma County 2017

Touriga Franca and field blend. Superb at $13.

Red and black berries perfect with a meat pizza at $22.

J.Lohr Pinot Noir Falcon’s Perch Monterey County 2018

Cline Ancient Vines Carignane Contra Coast County 2017

Greatly underpriced at $16.

Crios Cabernet Sauvignon Valle de Uco (Chile) 2018 Surprisingly excellent at $16.

Oak Farm Tievoli Red Blend Lodi 2018 Zinfandel, Primitivo, Barbera and Petite Sirah at $19.98.

Cline Pinot Noir Sonoma County 2018

Exciting find at the price point of $20.

Rivals Cotes-du-Rhones at $23.

Trapiche Medalla Malbec Lujan de Cuyo (Argentina) Priced at $24,

Post Scriptum de Chryseia Douro Valley (Portugal) 2017 Should be $47; amazing at $27.

Calera Pinot Noir Central Coast 2017

This wine gives you a clue as to why Duckhorn added Calera to its stable of great wines priced at $30.

Sosie Syrah Bennett Valley Vivio Vineyard Sonoma County 2016

J. Lohr Cuvée PAU Central Coast 2015

Cecchi Chianti Classico Riserva 2015

Long Meadow Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2014

Perfect with BBQ brisket at $38.

Great compliment to meat pasta cooked with olive oil and tomato sauce at $40.

J. McClelland Petit Verdot Oak Knoll District Napa Valley 2014 Substantial and pretty at $45.

Cuttings Cabernet Sauvignon California 2015 From the Prisoner Wine Company.

Rich and intense at $50.

Paraduxx Proprietary Red Wine Napa Valley 2016

Bordeaux blend with an extra dollop of Petit Verdot at $50.

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January/February 2020 l To advertise: 281.690.4242 l www.FortBendCEO.com

Excellent Pauillac look-alike at $50.

Chocolate covered cherries at $52.

Rodney Strong Symmetry Alexander Valley Red Meritage 2014 Aged perfectly at $55.

EnRoute Pinot Noir Les Pommiers Russian River Valley 2016 Luxurious at $55.

Storm Vrede Pinot Noir (South Africa) 2016 Possibly the best Pinot in South Africa at $55.

Saddleback Cellars Merlot Napa Valley 2016

Dark cherries and plums. Only 488 cases at $56.

50 Harvests Meritage Red Wine Napa Valley 2016

Paraduxx Red Wine Howell Mountain Napa Valley 2016

Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Napa Valley 2015

Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sauvignon Hayne Vineyard Napa Valley 2016

Kanankop Estate Paul Sauer Bordeaux Blend Simonsberg (South Africa) 2015

Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon Three Palms Vineyard Napa Valley 2016

Enticing red fruits, silky tannins at $60.

Class in a glass at $60.

Excellent at $60.

Boekenhoutskloof Syrah Swartland (South Africa) 2015 Rivals some in Northern Rhone.

Serve with prime rib at $65.

Cabernet and Syrah. Dynamite at $82.

Gorgeous with steak at $95.

Ripe blackberries and sweet oak nuances.

Perfectly integrated tannins at $175.

Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red Blend Napa Valley 2016

Hedonistic! Try with bone-in ribeye at $200.

Same exciting quality as its sister, Duckhorn Merlot Three Palms Vineyard.

Perfect with beef tenderloin at $100.

Chateau Montelena Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2014 Excellent balance at $150.

Robert Mondavi The Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon Vineyard 2015 and 2016

Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2015 and 2016 Bordering on perfection at $225.

Gaja Sperss Piedmont (Italy) 2014 Beautiful, branded Barolo.

Exciting at $250.

Acumen Mountainside Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2017 Eighteen months in 100% French oak.

Chocolate covered cherries and sweet tobacco at $65.

Folded Hills Estate Grenache Santa Ynez Valley 2017

Perfect with roasted chicken at $65.

Adobe Road Shift Sonoma County Red Wine 2016

Absolutely the coolest label and bottle! Zinfandel, Barbera, Grenache, Petite Sirah and Carignane.

Perfect with Beef Bourguignon at $66.

Migration Pinot Noir Drum Canyon Vineyards Sta. Rita Hills 2017 Blueberries and sage at $70.

Migration Pinot Noir Running Creek Vineyard Russian River Valley 2017 Rich, deep and balanced at $70.

Justin Isosceles Central Coast 2015 Ripe with yummy, jammy fruit at $76.

Mt. Brave Merlot Mt. Veeder Napa Valley 2015

Try with roasted duck with cherry sauce at $80.

January/February 2020 l

13

Business Briefs Business Insurance Specialists Let Us Customize Your Coverage and Find the Best Price For You!

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or the perfect wine tastings/dinners in all price ranges, the perfect highend wine visits to Napa and Sonoma, and the perfect wine visits to Texas Hill Country, call

Denman Moody 713.202.5229

theadvancedoenophile.com 14

January/February 2020 l To advertise: 281.690.4242 l www.FortBendCEO.com

Take Control of Credit Scores

Y

our credit rating can affect your ability to make purchases on credit by limiting the amount of credit for which you may apply or receive. Learn what factors can positively and negatively affect your credit at a special program at Fort Bend County Libraries’ First Colony Branch Library on Saturday, February 15th, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land.

In the program, “Take Control of Your Credit,” SCORE mentor Moncy Hawkins will provide an overview of credit scores, explaining what they are and how they are calculated. Learn about the different factors that make up a credit score and what steps can be taken to improve a rating.

Credit problems can make it more difficult to obtain loans or may result in higher interest rates when purchasing a car or buying a home. Understanding one’s credit rating and knowing how to improve it can help increase one’s purchasing power and enable one to save money.

Hawkins is founder and CEO of Fig Restoration, LLC. She is a board member of Women in Insurance in Financial Services (WIFS) and a financial educator for the AIDS Foundation Houston.

This program is presented in partnership with SCORE, the non-profit mentoring arm of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Those attending this program will learn about resources that are available through SCORE and how to draw on the experience of other SCORE members.

The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281238-2800 or visit fortbend.lib.tx.us.

success around the bend ®

WHO WE ARE

For more than 40 years, the Fort Bend Chamber has diligently fulfilled our mission to serve as the advocate for excellence in Fort Bend County and beyond. We create, enhance and promote the thriving economic environment in which we work and live.

Through our Education, Infrastructure, Governmental Relations, Community Resources, Business and Professional Development and Healthcare Divisions, we bring value to our members.

6445 Southwest Fwy Houston, TX 77074 281.588.5000 sterlingmccallford.com

Sterling McCall Ford

12343 Murphy Rd Unit C-2 Stafford, TX 77477 281.258.4275 simplyhempstafford.com

Simply Hemp “Fluor’s membership in the Fort Bend Chamber of We are the foremost resource Commerce enables us to partner with other providing relevant, innovative companies in enhancing and and impactful programs, initiatives promoting a thriving economic and services to enhance the environment, while at the same time offering numerous opportunities business climate and to make a difference by volunteering in the quality of life in communities we live and work in.”

testimonial

VISION

Rick Conley Fluor Corporation

Fort Bend County.

success around the bend ®

welcome

New Members

16710 Southwest Fwy Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.277.1661 wendys.com

Wendy’s American Enerpower Energy Services 281.414.8157 americanenerpower.com

Wendy’s

Fort Bend Helping Heroes Charity

281.344.7377 fbhelpingheroescharity.org

Homewatch CareGivers of Sugar Land

281.277.1661 wendys.com

281.817.1880 homewatchcaregivers.com

Misbah Chaudhry & Associates, PLLC – Immigration Law Firm 281.870.1300 misbahchaudhry.com

Ninefold Solutions 832.302.4863 ninefoldsolutions.com

12559 Southwest Fwy Stafford, TX 77477 281.980.4329 outback.com

Outback Steakhouse Black Bear Diner 346.279.1894 blackbeardiner.com

Boxer Property 713.777.7368 boxerproperty.com

Capital Internal Medicine Associates 832.886.4774 cima-docs.com

Charm Dental

281.242.2221 charmdentalcare.com

JKN Doors

281.208.7346 jkn-doors-llc.business.site

Katex International Suppliers

NuBrakes Mobile Brake Repair 832.706.4115 nubrakes.com

Savant Energy Services 832.735.0234 savantenergyservices.com

832.916.0771 katexis.com

12220 Murphy Road Suite I Stafford, TX 77477 832.230.3073 texancredit.com

Delta Restoration Services 713.271.8786 emergency.deltaswhouston.com

Texan Credit

20403 University Blvd., Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.325.0188 sugarlandpt.com

First Colony Aquatic Rehab Sherwin Williams Paint Company 346.366.4182 sherwin-williams.com

Sienna Shuttle 713.825.3866

Vijay Computer Academy 832.500.4136 vijaycomputer.com

Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry 281.937.7530 smilesongreatwood.com

Whataburger #1153

832.342.9607 whataburger.com

STAR Geoenvironmental

Simply Hemp Stafford 281.258.4275 simplyhempstafford.com

346.250.4999 starges.com

Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar

281.729.8333 whiskeycake.com

12575 Southwest Fwy Stafford, TX 77477 281.729.8333 whiskeycake.com

Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar Sing Along Karaoke 281.901.0396 singalong-karaoke.com

THREE by Berkshire Hathaway 1.800.507.4495 threeinsurance.com

7324 Grand Mission Blvd.

Richmond, TX 77407 832.924.7275 wppediatricdentistry.com

Westpark Pediatric Dentistry

For membership &

ribbon cuttings

10701 Corporate Dr., Suite 387 Stafford, TX 77477 832.500.4136 vijaycomputer.com

contact:

Stacy Bynes Vijay Computer Academy

281.566.2154 stacy@fortbendcc.org

chamber celebrations Milestone Members

ÂŽ

1 Year Black Tie Company

16511 Southwest Fwy Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.243.7600 macys.com

Vincent Baldridge

WorkSuites

Macy’s

Tosha Bontrager

4501 Cartwright Rd., Suite 204 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.403.3700 kevinrilescommercial.com

20 Years Murray Insurance & Financial Jim Murray

RG Miller Engineers, Inc. Andrew Paderanga

Kevin Riles Real Estate

Texana Center Andi Wallis

11121 Fountain Lake Dr. Stafford, TX 77477 346.390.2240 hilton.com

Home2Suites

25 Years

77 Sugar Creek Center Blvd.

Suite 401 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.340.2074 wongfleming.com

Fastsigns Dave Tait

Wong Fleming

25 Years

310.488.7927

Sanders & Yan, PC Certified Public Accountants Cy Sanders

Roots Magazine for Harvest Green

2020 H

By WJ Interests

Personal Financial Planning Calendar

appy New Year! Don’t let 2020 pass you by and let hindsight be this year (see what we did there?). Take prudent steps now in order to make the most out of your hard-earned wealth.

Here we’ve put together a simple financial planning calendar for 2020 to help you prepare for the year ahead.

January

• Review last year’s budget • Plan Annual and Monthly Budget • Review Investment Portfolio Allocation • Review annual maximum retirement account contribution limits for 2020 and adjust contributions accordingly • January 15th – Quarterly Estimated Tax Payment Due

February

• Plan Monthly Budget

March

• Plan Monthly Budget

April

• Plan Monthly Budget • April 15th – Tax filing/extension deadline • April 15th – Deadline to make a prior-year contribution to an IRA • April 15th – Quarterly Estimated Tax Payment Due • Review Property and Casualty Insurance Coverage (i.e. home, auto, jewelry, umbrella, flood, etc.)

• Ensure you have the appropriate coverage • Shop it out to ensure you’ve got the best rate

May

November

• Plan Monthly Budget

• Plan Monthly Budget • Year-end tax planning

June

• Plan Monthly Budget • June 15th – Quarterly Estimated Tax Payment Due

July

• Plan Monthly Budget • Review Investment Portfolio Allocation • Review your Estate Plan documents to ensure they are up to date

August

• Plan Monthly Budget • Review and Update Beneficiaries on IRA’s, 401(k)’s, life insurance policies, etc.

September

• Plan Monthly Budget • September 15th – Quarterly Estimated Tax Payment Due

October

• Plan Monthly Budget • October 15th – Tax extension filing deadline • October 15th – Medicare open Enrollment begins (for those over 65 and on Medicare)

December

• Plan Monthly Budget • Consider Tax Loss Harvesting in your taxable investment portfolio as applicable • December 7th – Medicare open enrollment ends Other areas that may not affect everyone but to consider and add to your planning calendar if they do: • Employer Benefit Open Enrollment • Large purchase planning (i.e. car, home improvement, wedding, etc.)

Depending on your particular situation, there are many other areas you may also want to review and/or address in addition to the items listed here. Give us a call if we can ever be of service to assist you with your financial planning needs. Here’s to a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

WJ Interests, LLC, has provided Fee-Only financial advice to individuals, families and businesses since 1996. For more information, please contact us at wj@wjwealth.com or 281-634-9400.

Your Goals are our Blueprint Fee-Only financial advice, based on your financial needs and goals - when you succeed, we succeed.

Building Your Financial Security

wjwealth.com || 281-634-9400

Financial Planning and Investment Management since 1996 January/February 2020 l

19

Globetrotting By

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2020 Bucket List of the Best Places to Travel:

s i ar P La Reserve

La Reserve stairway.

P

aris is everything that has been written about the beautiful city, and it is the number one destination for too many reasons to account for here. However, this destination offers all of the delights that one should expect and more when enjoying a vacation.

From the iconic eateries to the museums and architecture, Paris delivers all with old world style and charm.

As for selecting accommodations in the city of romance, I have selected three of the best in my opinion that offer creature comforts and unique experiences: La Reserve, Le Meurice and Sinner.

My list is much, much longer than this, of course, but by means of showcasing distinctly different and amazing spaces to lay your head while in Paris, these three certainly offer amazing experiences.

20

La Reserve, located at 2 Avenue Gabriel, is perfectly located facing the Grand Palais, steps away from the iconic Eiffel Tower and in the heart of the Champs-Elysees. It is beautifully appointed in all of my favorite colors – reds and greens combined with golds and chocolates with an occasional grey and champagne. The silk wallpapers by Rubelli and the furniture by Henryot creates an atmosphere beaconing guests to stay and enjoy themselves a long while indeed. Frankly, I could move right in here and feel at home instantly. The coziness of the hotel is distinct as well with 40 rooms, 26 of those being suites. The building of this hotel was built in 1854 for the Duc de Morny.

Eiffel Tower at sunset in Paris, France.

taking view of the city from the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower. This hotel palace offers a 2-Star Michelin restaurant, and at Le Dali, guests enjoy 300 different cocktails at Bar 228. In addition to the 18th century style, guests will find that their shopping and love of art could not be more perfectly accessible, especially if your tastes include Chanel and Cartier.

Sinner confessional booth.

Sinner

La Meurice suite.

Le Meurice

Le Meurice is a history lover’s dream.

Salvador Dali resided here, Queen Victoria was a guest in 1855 and Picasso was married under her welcoming arms. The Haussmann facade overlooks the gardens of Tuileries, and it boasts a breath-

January/February 2020 l To advertise: 281.690.4242 l www.FortBendCEO.com

Sinner is a delightfully sultry hotel just eking romance and all of the senses that come with it. It is located in Paris’s central Marais district, approximately 11 miles from Paris Orly Airport. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with ecclesiastically dressed staff with red lanterns and the heavy and unmistakable smell of frankincense. There’s a confessional booth and crypt and a theatrical play on that old time favorite of being naughty. The hotel is Art Deco styled throughout and playful decorated with reminders of what you are expected to do while there. You can even book a 50-minute blindfolded massage! Ooh la la!

VOTE REPUBLICAN CONSERVATIVE

U.S. Congressman Pete Olson’s Community Outreach Director Governor Greg Abbott’s Vice Chair on the Texas Real Estate Research and Advisory Committee 15 Years of experience as a Certified Auditor and Business Development Manager Photo by Alisa Murray Photography.

Board Member for the Fort Bend ISD Bond Committee and Innovation Committee Treasurer and Finance Chair for the Fort Bend County GOP

Republican Candidate for Tax Assessor

J.J. Clemence

A proven conservative leader in Fort Bend County with over a decade of financial and business experience. Her long record of community service to Fort Bend County and extensive financial experience make her the most Early qualified candidate for Fort Voting Bend County Tax Assessor.

February 18 - 28

Primary March 3, 2020 /JJClemenceFortBend

Dear Friends, Fort Bend County represents the best of what this country offers: robust business opportunities, great schools, and flourishing communities.

Fort Bend deserves transparency and efficiency at all levels of government.

As your Tax Assessor, I will ensure your tax rates are calculated fairly and work hard to improve the collection process, saving you money and keeping Fort Bend County a great place to live and work.

I look forward to the opportunity to earn your vote.

J.J. Clemence Visit www.jjclemence.com

Paid for by J.J. Clemence Campaign, Treasurer Rob Thompson.