Volume 31 • No. 3
THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
March 2013
Gulf Coast Windows The Most Advanced Innovative Window Technology See Page 10
INSIDE STORIES
Six overlooked tax breaks County Judge Bob Hebert delivers 2013 State of County address Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter Fort Bend Newsworthy & Names in the News Data Beat Information
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Editor’s Preview by Sharon Wallingford
March becomes a springboard for business activities Sharon Wallingford
Barbara J. Carlson
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hile visiting your library, favorite bookstore, museum gift shop or musing on your iPad, you may want to pay attention to the date March 2, which marks Texas Independence Day and Texas Flag Day. With our current population at 606,953, and more new Texans on the way, you may be asked a historical question that you would want to be able to answer. Also, pay attention to your clocks, Fort Bend changes to daylight saving time on March 11. Think green, Saint Patrick’s Day comes along March 17th. The first day of Spring will hopefully awaken our routes to work on March 20. And we can salute our military every day, but for many, for sure, on Vietnam Veteran’s Day March 29. The Sugar Land Skeeters are preparing for their second and 2013 season. Their Hot Stove Banquet was a “homerun” success. Fans packed the Insperity Club at Constellation Field to hear Brett Dolan, Gary Gatti, Larry Dierker and Bob Watson and others highlight their best seasons and what’s coming for this year. The food was excellent and bringing smiles to everyone’s faces was Deacon Jones when he led everyone in singing, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” www.SugarLandSkeeters. com.
We heard a favorable economic report at the Fort Bend Economic Development Council’s annual breakfast. Presented by Robert W. Gilmer, director at the University of Houston’s Institute for Regional Forecasting, the projection favors Fort Bend and other parts of the Greater Houston region to continue to lead the nation. There’s much to be discovered in this month’s issue. Meet James M. Fiume, founder and president of Gulf Coast Window & Energy Products, Inc. He is springboarding ahead as our Cover article and his galant actions deserve our attention. Our columnists are on the mark with the latest and best information that you need in the workplace. We offer what’s happening with new business listings in the county (Data Beat). Read about healthcare, transportation, railroad gardens, legislation, water, levies and growth as you turn the pages. Remember, every day becomes a day to celebrate when you live in Fort Bend County. Keep the cash register ringing. Sharon K. Wallingford
The Editorial Advisory Board
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Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS Managing Director – Colliers International | Fort Bend
Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing
Jacqueline Baly President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC
Alan Sandersen Certified Public Accountant Sandersen Knox & Co. L.L.P.
Contact:
Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation
Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank
Sharon K. Wallingford Sharon@FortBendBusinessJournal.com 281.690.4200 - Office
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
John Whitmore Whitmore Company
Barbara J. Carlson Barbara@FortBendBusinessJournal.com 281.690.4204 - Direct
Butch Watterson Nancy Benevides
The House’r Team
713.854.0923
Sherry 281.340.4111 Prime Properties Mike 281.340.4122
Realtor, ABR, GRI, Legend Award
BH & GRE Gary Greene
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Grand Parkway Realty
713.582.1654
Top Producer
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Sugar Land’s Top Producer 2012
RE/MAX Southwest
713.203.9975
BarbaraLeeCochran.com Hometown America
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Realtor, GRI, SRES, CDPE, PMN
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281.433.4462
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Multi-Million Dollar Producer
Keller Williams Realty
RE/MAX Fine Properties
RE/MAX Fine Properties
832.274.7663
Hank Mann Team RE/MAX Fine Properties
President’s Circle
BH & GRE Gary Greene
Barbara Lee Cochran
Beard Realty Group
Cathy Simeone
Realtor • 30 + Years
RE/MAX Southwest
Anita Milne 20 yrs of Real Estate Experience
Debbie Marcell
281.414.8400
Kristi Bajjali
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Selling Ft. Bend Finest Homes Coldwell Banker United
Rick Wells
RE/MAX Southwest
Saba Sharif
Barbara Montgomery
Mike Harness & Sherry Miles
Jeanne Gregory
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Selling the American Dream
Arlene Rolsen
RE/MAX Fine Properties
Jennifer Weaver
Realtor - 23+ yrs experience
Denise & Greg Houser
Dorothy Yee
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Hank Mann
Terri Kurkjian
Top Producer
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FORT BEND REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS
Realtor, CRS, GRI, CDPE
RE/MAX Southwest
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C
NTENTS COVER STORY
Gulf Coast Windows
The Most Advanced Innovative Window Technology
10
pg.
Special Feature Fort Bend Banking & Finance........ pg
14
James M. Fiume
Inside Stories Quality care and innovative technology are mainstays of surgery
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at Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital . ..................................................................... 8 Six overlooked tax breaks.................................................................................................. 14 A final salute to Robert C. Hanna..................................................................................... 17 Local transportation dilemma: Miles to go before we fix our roads........................ 18 Fort Bend Green seeks public input for Brazos River Recreation Master Plan...... 20 New Dunkin’ Donuts to open in Missouri City.............................................................. 22
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Why marketing goes wrong and what you can do about it ..................................... 24 Overcoming Back or Neck Pain........................................................................................ 25 Mental Illness — It is more common than you think................................................... 26 Yates story: Self, research and second opinions provide a health solution . ..... 28 The Honorable Robert J. Kern looks back, and looks ahead . ................................ 30 Businessman Bill Rickert explores railroading in his backyard................................ 32 Huggins gift helps Fort Bend Y kick off annual Partner’s campaign...................... 40
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County Judge Hebert delivers 2013 State of County address................................. 42
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Civil War historian and author to speak on origins of Juneteenth........................... 44 Capital investor in Katy uses his ‘noodle”...................................................................... 53 March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
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NTENTS
PUBLISHER.................................... Beverly Carter
MONTHLY COLUMNS
GENERAL MANAGER............Michael Fredrickson ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER . ..............Barbara Carlson EDITOR ...........................................Sharon Wallingford
Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS Commercial Real Estate
Discusses Moving Your Business?.........................................................19
MARKETING CONSULTANTS
Diane Strehl
Ann Sturrock
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST.........................................Becky Hall CONTRIBUTOR ...........................Wayne Chandler
Alan Sandersen
Mike Barnett
Elsa Maxey
Tax Smart
John Graham
Discusses The IRS goes fishing for unreported and under-reported income...................................................21
George Patterson
B.J. Pollock
ART DIRECTOR.................................Joey Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB.............Carlo Arcillas
Elsa Maxey Star Digital Studios
Discusses Video for your website – it’s time...........................................23
DEPARTMENTS Newsworthy ............................................................ 36-37 Names in the News.................................................. 38-39 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter......... 45-52 Data Beat................................................................. 54-57
ON THE COVER GULF COAST WINDOW & ENERGY PRODUCTS, INC. James M. Fiume President
Service Directory...................................................... 59-61 Meet & Eat - Food, Drink & Entertainment Guide..... 62-63
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March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
©2013 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine No material from this publication be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.
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Quality care and innovative technology are mainstays of surgery at Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital
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ffering high-quality care and innovative technology enables Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital to consistently achieve outstanding outcomes for its surgical patients. For the seventh straight year, HealthGrades®, the leading independent healthcare ratings company, has awarded the hospital its Excellence Award™ for General Surgery. In addition, HealthGrades recently named Memorial Hermann Southwest as a Distinguished Hospital for Clinical Excellence™, placing it in the top 5 percent of hospitals nationwide for superior clinical performance. This exceptional care is accompanied by a diversity of procedures not usually available outside major medical centers. Affiliated surgeons skillfully use advanced laparoscopic and endoscopic technologies to perform hundreds of minimally invasive procedures each year. Among the procedures are removal of the gallbladder, appendix, bowel, adrenal gland, kidney, prostate, lung and uterus; repair of hernias and the valve between the esophagus and stomach; and improved diagnosis for pelvic pain or infertility.
Robotic surgery continues to provide surgical advancements Major innovations in laparoscopic surgeries at Memorial Hermann Southwest and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital are possible thanks to the da Vinci ® robotic surgical system. Physicians praise its crystal-clear, 3-D imagery and revolutionary motion control that precisely translates their hand, wrist and finger movements at the control console
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Michael Kleinman, M.D., alongside the da Vinci Si Surgical System that allows physicians to make smaller incisions and patients to recover more quickly.
into corresponding micro-movements at instrument tips. For patients, the robot-assisted surgery means smaller incisions, less blood loss and faster recoveries. This innovative technology has also led to single-incision procedures for a variety of surgeries, including cholecystectomy, or gallbladder removal. Memorial Hermann Southwest was the first hospital in the Houston area, outside of the Texas Medical Center, to offer this procedure. One of the first surgeons in Houston to perform a single-incision gallbladder removal with da Vinci was Michael H. Kleinman, M.D., a general surgeon affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest. He said the robotic-assisted technology aids surgeons in making
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
delicate maneuvers and reduces the technical challenges of traditional laparoscopic gallbladder removal, while offering patients a cosmetic advantage. “About 40 percent of patients undergoing gallbladder removal are women ages 18 to 44, and avoiding a scar can be important to them,” said Dr. Kleinman. “The surgeon needs only one incision on the navel about an inch long compared with four to six incisions for a traditional minimally invasive procedure.” The best candidates for singleincision, robot-assisted gallbladder removal are patients whose gallbladder disease is caused by gallstones. Other criteria include being infection-free and having no history of previous upper abdominal surgeries.
New technology during endoscopy improves diagnoses of precancerous cells caused by heartburn Several laparoscopic procedures performed by Memorial Hermann Southwest-affiliated physicians can treat heartburn and severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The longer someone has GERD, the higher the risk of developing cancer of the esophagus. An upper endoscopy is the standard of care to detect precancerous cells. Performed under sedation, an upper endoscopy typically involves the use of a small forceps passed down an endoscope. The endoscope is a thin, flexible tube inserted into the body that allows surgeons to view the lining of the esophagus and stomach on a TV monitor. Now the hospital’s surgical team has access to EndoCx®, which utilizes a specially designed biopsy brush to obtain a larger tissue sample of the esophagus than is available during a standard upper endoscopy. Studies show this promising new technology, when added to the standard endoscopy procedure, improves
detection of precancerous cells in the esophagus by over 40 percent. “Someone with persistent heartburn who has had an upper endoscopy where no precancerous cells were found using the standard biopsy technique should consider the EndoCx technology,” said Owen Maat, M.D., a gastroenterologist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest. “This new 3-D brush biopsy technique increases the tissue area sampled and, therefore, increases the potential of discovering abnormal cells missed by the standard forceps biopsy procedure.”
Heartburn Hotline provides immediate help Approximately 375,000 people in the Houston area suffer from chronic heartburn. The Heartburn and Reflux Treatment Program at Memorial Hermann Southwest offers specialty care from a multidisciplinary team of affiliated healthcare professionals who offer a wide range of treatment options from nutritional counseling to the latest surgical innovations. To connect with a heartburn specialist, call the Heartburn Hotline at 713.456.HBRN (4276).
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Time for a colonoscopy? If you’re eligible, our direct access program makes it easy. With the Direct Access program, you can schedule a colonoscopy in three steps. In most cases, no separate physician office visit is required. Patients will experience exceptional care as our Center has ranked in the top 5 percent in the country for both gastrointestinal care and gastrointestinal surgery from 2006 to 2012.
Step 1: Determine if you’re eligible for our Direct Access program. A screening colonoscopy may be scheduled directly through the Endoscopy department as long as one of these conditions is met (policy dependent).
You must be one of these groups: • Age 50 or older • An African-American age 45 or older • Age 40, or 10 years younger than the age at which a first-degree relative was diagnosed with colon cancer
Step 2: Schedule your appointment online at www.memorialhermann.org/directaccess or call 713.456.5280.
Step 3: If you schedule online, a screening nurse will call you to confirm the details.
The Direct Access Program-affiliated gastroenterologists and anesthesiologists include (back row) Owen Maat, M.D., Peter Lang, M.D., Robert Arkus, M.D., AP Raghuthaman, M.D., (front row) Sreelatha Reddy, M.D., and Juan Martinez, M.D.
Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
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A D V E R T O R I A L
Gulf Coast Windows Has the Most Advanced Innovative Window Technology in the Replacement Window Industry
COVER STORY By Barbara J. Carlson
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normous humility and the most sincere concern for each and every customer—no matter how big or small the job—is what immediately captured my attention in meeting James M. Fiume, Founder and President of Gulf Coast Window & Energy Products, Inc. Fiume, such a humble man, hasn’t forgotten his struggles in creating “the most advanced innovative window technology in the replacement window industry,” as Fiume’s slogan explains. As one would expect, Fiume explained, “I didn’t do this all by myself. No one can build a successful company to this level all by him or herself. If they tell you they did, they’re not being honest with you. Who really deserves the credit for the product we offer is actually our customers. Over the years our customers have provided continuous feedback to our senior management team. We listen to each and every comment and have continued to perfect our product based on the feedback.” “Please tell me your story. Tell me what no one gets to hear outside of what the hilariously funny Conservative radio talk show host, Michael Berry, says, who thinks the world of you by the way,” I asked Jim. “I want the readers to know you, to understand who you really are and to be able to visualize who I see sitting across your desk from me.” And so Jim began. “One of my first jobs I had when I moved to Houston was with
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Gulf Coast Window & Energy Products, Inc.’s west side plant.
a window factory, located near the Hobby Airport area. I had the vision long ago that window replacement was the direction to go because one day our energy bills would cost the homeowner as much as his or her house payment. Many disagreed with me. What I saw lacking in the industry decades ago was the poor design and how much hot and cool air escaped from windows and doors throughout one’s home or business. I saw it as a great disservice to expect the customer to commit to investing in the replacement of windows and then discover later that the outcome wasn’t quite as efficient as expected, but no one in the industry was perfecting the window replacement product.” Jim paused for a moment, smiled and continued, “I have to share a story with you. March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
I’m not sure if you know it but I’m originally from New York. When I came down to Texas in 1979, I had a heavy, very heavy, accent and…well, it didn’t go over very well. Over the years, I think I’ve lost most of it, which that alone helped my business.” Jim continued, “In 1980, an opportunity came along that I met up with my future partner who owned a siding company. He had mentioned to me that he needed to close down his business because of lack of leads and sales and he no longer could afford to keep the doors open. I didn’t have the money at the time to get a loan to buy him out. I approached him with an offer that if he’d be willing to consider a 51/49 split in
ownership of his company with the caveat that I had one year to turn the company around with at least $1M in sales or he could fire me and take the company back. My 49% split was for sweat equity ownership and my marketing skills. Fortunately, this opportunity was good for the both of us. ” Jim further continued, “When I came on board in 1980, the company was in the siding business, which we quickly deleted from our inventory and focused solely on windows. I told my partner that we needed to get into the window business and focus only on that aspect. Remember, I had been in the window industry, I knew the flaws and I knew that we could become successful by offering a premier window product. We weren’t afraid to get in there and work hard. My partner worked as hard as I did and I would never have been successful without his efforts.” “So what was the turning point for you?” I asked Jim. “In 1983, my partner wanted to buy me out. I took my buyout money and started Gulf Coast Windows from scratch, which his company then closed a year later.” “And the rest is history now 30 years later”? “The rest is history.” If one hasn’t visited Gulf Coast’s location or scheduled a demonstration, one should consider adding that to one’s New Year’s “To Do” list. Our homes are, oftentimes, our biggest investment. With Houston placing as
BEFORE AFTER
Gulf Coast’s windows look exceptional on any home.
low as the 320th safest city in which to live, not only is electricity efficiency important but also home and business security is a growing concern. “Gulf Coast’s windows have been rated top security windows by AAMA,” Fiume stated, “and we can show you a window that you cannot break into.” “Gulf Coast’s product is solid,” Fiume explained, “which is critical during these challenging economic times.” Fiume continued, “What some homeowners and
BEFORE AFTER
Another example of an exemplary makeover. Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
business owners fail to recognize is that the South is the biggest energy money waster because we can’t see heat. The North is more cognizant of winter because one can see and feel it. One can see frozen condensation (ice, frost and snow) seeping in through doors and windows, thus motivating people to take action. Subzero temperatures feel worse than heat. Heat is virtually invisible and silent, and far too often go unnoticed in the South with the discerning eye easily missing much-needed insulation. Cooling demands more energy and is more costprohibitive than heating while the South cools 10 months out of the year. Even worse, we don’t, as a practice, open our windows in the South; whereas, in the North, people do. Keeping in mind that windows and doors can account for up to 40% of energy loss and most drafts, addressing this issue is necessary to improving energy efficiency. Not only does our thermal replacement offer an outstanding sound barrier from outside noises and energy efficiency, but it also affords our customers a final beautiful product to look at.” Gulf Coast Windows offers many colors to choose from. Their keen eye to detail and commitment to listening to the customer is key. One doesn’t feel like once the order is placed, one has become another statistic in a
Continues...
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Tom Tynan and one who has also passed the Michael Berry stringent litmus test with flying colors? As I left Gulf Coast Windows, I remembered what my father said to me as a little girl and many times afterward until he passed away: “You will be very blessed if you reach old age and you can still count the same five people on one hand who have been loyal to you throughout your life. If you can fill that hand, you have done very well and have been blessed.” Jim Fiume will consistently be one of the five chosen on many hands because he has never forgotten his struggles while fulfilling his dream, he has refused to compromise his integrity and most certainly he hasn’t lost his humility. Jim is, indeed, a very rare breed. It is so seldom in today’s chaotic world when one hears a success story that happens to a really good guy.
BEFORE AFTER
Gulf Coast even offers twin windows.
block of business. Fiume’s entire office works in a concerted effort to bring you the best product while the customer is worry free and enjoying a satisfactory experience. When at Fiume’s office, I asked Jim to perform a little test. “Let’s pull up some streets and see if you’ve done work on them,” his not knowing which names I would call off. Before performing this task, Jim commented, “I bet that we’ll have done more than one home on each street.” Low and behold, each street I asked Lauren, Jim’s personal assistant, to pull up from Gulf Coast’s massive customer database, numerous addresses flashed across the screen. I looked over and Jim was beaming. Jim explained, “We have tens of thousands of loyal customers. We take pride in being there for our customers through every step of the process. We want our customers to know that we care. It’s an investment they’re making and we respect that. So, how many service repairmen do we have, you wonder?” “Yes, sir. That was my next question,” I said. “We have only one man handling all of our service calls.” “For tens of thousands of customers?” I responded, my jaw dropping. “Yes, ma’am.” “Well, that says it all,” I smiled. “It’s taken us a very long time, but we have worked for three decades to offer our customers the very best product. There is virtually so little service work because we
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Gulf Coast has been the recipient of the BBB’s “Winner of Distinction Award for Excellence” from 2006-2007 and again in 2009-2012, while also capturing the highest and most coveted award—the Pinnacle Award—in 2008.
have put so much effort into our product.” “See, all the guys that come down from New York aren’t all bad guys, are they?” I laughed. That brought a smile to Jim’s face. Gulf Coast Windows has been the recipient of the BBB’s “Winner of Distinction Award for Excellence” from 2006-2007 and again in 2009-2012, while also capturing the highest and most coveted award—the Pinnacle Award—in 2008. How can anyone doubt a business leader who has been endorsed by Milo Hamilton, March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
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The Chamber is taking applications for the Leadership Fort Bend Class of 2013-14. For more information, contact Jeremy Heath at 281-342-5464 or jheath@cfbca.org. Tournament is May 20 at Pecan Grove Country Club. For more information, or to sponsor any Chamber event, please contact Shannan Stavinoha at 281-342-5464 or sstavinoha@cfbca.org.
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www.CFBCA.org Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
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Special Feature Fort Bend Banking & Finance
Six overlooked tax breaks
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elebrate this tax season by looking for every nook and cranny in the tax code to save you money. Below are a few commonly missed tax breaks. Charitable Donations If you gave a car, cash, or other gift to a qualified charity in 2012, you can deduct the value of the gift on your tax return. Even the shirt off your back can be deductible if you properly recorded it. You can only deduct charitable gifts if you itemize. Mortgage Points Some of the costs associated with taking out a new mortgage or refinancing an old one are deductible. A “point” is a fee the lender may charge to offer you a preferred interest rate. Generally, points range from
1 to 2 percent of the value of the loan. Educator Expenses Teachers can deduct up to $250 spent on supplies, books, and other materials used in the classroom. This deduction is “above-the-line”, which means you can take it regardless of your income level or whether you take the standard deduction or itemize. Student Loan Interest The interest portion of your student loan payments is deductible “above-theline”. This includes both federal and private loans. Job Hunting Costs Costs associated with looking for a new job in your current field can be deductible, as long as the taxpayer itemizes – and the costs, along with other miscellaneous itemized expenses, exceed 2 percent of the
Providing fee-only services to individuals, families and businesses since 1996. (281) 634-9400 • www.wjinterests.com
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March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
taxpayer’s adjusted gross income. Allowable deductions include employment agency fees, resume’ services, want-ad fees, travel expenses, etc. Deductible Taxes Many state and local taxes are deductible for federal income tax purposes. This includes property taxes, state and local income taxes, and sales taxes. Unfortunately, Social Security and Medicare taxes are not deductible. If you have questions about your tax situation for 2012, or would like to plan for 2013, consult your local CPA or feeonly financial advisor. WJ Interests is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm in Sugar Land. For more information, please contact us at wj@wjinterests.com or 281634-9400.
Like you, we’re proud to call Katy home. Visit our new Katy Investor Center for free one-on-one guidance. From this year’s state football champs to 70 years of the Katy Rodeo, there’s a lot to celebrate around here. And, now you can also take advantage of guidance from a financial services leader, right here in your backyard. • Meet with an investment professional to review your portfolio and
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Special Feature Fort Bend Banking & Finance
Spirit of Texas Bank sets plans to settle in Fort Bend County soon
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pirit of Texas Bank is one of the fastest growing community banks in Texas. With its roots anchored in the Snook-College Station market region, Spirit of Texas Bank presently operates nine branch locations in Houston and the surrounding area with two loan production offices in the Dallas-Fort Worth marketplace. Members of the management team have an average of 20 to 30 years of banking experience in statewide markets. The Spirit of Texas Bank leads in business loans with a special emphasis in SBA lending. In addition, Spirit of Texas Bank provides high end residential mortgage construction funding and permanent financing in the Greater
Houston markets. It provides mortgage specialization for the foreign national trade in The Woodlands and other communities. The bankers at Spirit of Texas Bank attend to each customer’s need with the “Can-Do Spirit” of Texas. Spirit of Texas Bank is poised to open more locations in Texas, including DallasFort Worth, as well as, fast growing communities such as Fort Bend County. With a strong capital base, the bankers at Spirit of Texas Bank have the capacity to structure multi-million dollar transactions in a timely manner. Dean Bass, Chairman & Chief Executive officer, David McGuire, President and Chief Lending officer, and Naren Patel, Chairman of the Business Boards, are familiar with the Fort Bend marketplace and are keen to serve
and support the unprecedented economic growth of the Fort Bend community. We were born in the Heart of Texas and raised on Texas values. The Spirit of Texas Bank proudly serves the Citizens of the Great State of Texas by offering a full array of loan, deposit and on-line banking products at competitive rates to compliment your entire commercial and/ or consumer banking needs. Contact the banking center nearest you to see the true meaning of what “Community Banking and Service” can be. For additional information visit www.spiritoftexasbank.com or call 713.613.1100 so we may help you. Member FDIC
RIDING INTO TOWN
Expanding to Fort Bend County Soon #1 SBA Lender in Texas • Commercial loans to owner-operated businesses David M. McGuire
President • Chief lending Officer
Dean O. Bass
Chairman • CEO
Naren Patel
Chairman • Business Development Boards
720 N. Post Oak Road, Houston, Texas 77024 • 713.613.1100
Visit www.SpiritofTexasbank.com for locations near you.
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March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
A final salute to Robert C. Hanna
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usiness associates, hospital executives and a multitude of friends are still mourning the passing of Robert Clyde Hanna, 84, an iconic Imperial Sugar Company CEO, longtime chairman of the Memorial Healthcare System and its foundation, a community leader and a patron of the arts. Hanna, who died January 25 after an 11year battle with cancer, led Imperial Sugar’s emergence to one of the top sugar companies in the U.S. And, for much of that time – eight years – was spent helping develop the mega Memorial Healthcare System, while running a Fortune 500 company and merging it with the Holly Sugar Company of Colorado. Dan Wilford, longtime CEO and president of Memorial Healthcare Systems, remembers, “Conservatively, Bob chaired more than 110 board meetings and attended numerous committee meetings. I met with him between board meetings – 110 more meetings. I observed him and learned from him…(he) always found time for me – not because of me, because of our mission.” In the business environment , Wilford said, “we all learned much from Bob”: • Don’t leave before asking for “the sell.” • “Smooth” always works better than ‘rough.” • A commitment is a commitment –of time and focus. • Your word is your bond.. • If you can’t negotiate a complex deal in six months, move on. • Gather your facts, then use your instincts. • In Texas, it is hard to think “too big.” Hanna came to Texas in 1955 as assistant sales manager of Imperial Sugar. After 38 years, he retired as president, CEO and director of the Imperial Holly Corporation. He served on the George Foundation, United Way, Entex, and Houston Lighting and Power boards. Still other affiliations included deacon of the First Presbyterian Church, Sugar Land, 32nd degree of the Houston Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, and numerous country club boards throughout the Houston area. He was preceded in death by
his parents, two brothers and his wife, Emily, and his son, Robert Scott Hanna. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, sister Barbara LaRue Lasco of Sugar Land, daughter, Jane O’Neill and husband, Tim, of Marlin, sons David Brand of Pearland, and Larry Brand of Sugar Land, daughter, Diana Lin Henk and husband Wayne of Missouri City, and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Born in Decatur, Illinois, he was a 1950 graduate of Millikin University, Decatur. He served on that school’s Board of Trustees from 1986-95, was named Alumnus of the Year in 1995, and was inducted into Millikin’s Medallion Society in 2003. He served in the U.S. Army Infantry, 1950-54, and was discharged as a first lieutenant. One of his many honors was the establishment of the Robert C. Hanna Memorial Stewardship Award in 1991 by Imperial Holly Corporation, which continues
Sugar Land 8410 Hwy 90A Stafford 3531 S. Main Missouri City 3600 FM 1092 (713) 388-7600
Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
to be awarded annually to the most deserving patient caregiver in the Memorial Hermann Healthcare System. In a February 1 eulogy, Wilford noted that Hanna Robert C. Hana was an avid golfer and was a lover of the arts, often spending weekends attending the opera, symphony, or theater. “Bob,” Wilford said, “was a dedicated and committed family man. His family will attest to that.” Another mutual friend, he said, defined Hanna: “ warm, great presence, thoughtful, well-informed, well-dressed, articulate, impressive, enthusiastic.” Wilford said, “Knowing Bob for 28 years I never heard anyone speak a negative word about him, probably because they never heard him speak a negative word about anyone.”
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Local transportation dilemma: Miles to go before we fix our roads By Wayne Chandler
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ith an estimated 1,200 persons moving to Texas every day, Texas Transportation Commissioner Jeff Mosely said transportation is “the backbone of the state’s economy” and he posed these challenges: • Less gasoline tax income because, by 2025, vehicles will be averaging 54 mpg, buying less gasoline and paying less in taxes • Construction inflation has increased 62% since 2002 • Roads and bridges are exceeding life spans and need extensive maintenance • Truck freight traffic is expected to increase by 120% • Some $370 billion will be needed for new roads and maintenance through 2035, with state revenues expected to
cover only half • The growing energy sector and Panama Canal expansion is increasing the demand for transportation mobility Commissioner Mosely led with these particular issues at Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers’ annual breakfast on February 6, attended by more than 650 interested government and business leaders at Safari Texas in Richmond. Mosely also said that improvements to the Top 50 most congested roads in the state will cost $50 billion, and that nearly half of these projects ($21.7 billion) are in Harris County. He added that it’ll be five to 10 years before TxDOT can repair them. The Dallas-Fort Worth area needs about $10.5 billion, San Antonio $4.7 billion, and Austin $2.6 billion. Possible funding solutions? 1) Increased vehicle registration fees, motor fuels taxes and motor vehicle sales taxes. The commissioner
also said that perhaps public-private partnerships could be expanded, more tolling could be added, and transportation reinvestment zones be established. Also, Governor Rick Perry’s proposal is to take $3.7 billion from the Rainy Day Fund. Following the commissioner’s comments were Glenn Beckendorf, Waller county judge; Matt Sebesta, Brazoria county commissioner, and Meyers. Each spoke about the need for sharing information and forming more partnerships to enhance mobility. Beckendorf said that localities need to look for potential revenue sources close to home. Sebesta spoke of improving right of way solutions to expedite new roads. Meyers pointed to the need for more regional mobility and said that a Grand Prairie Corridor Association is being formed, involving representatives of Waller, Fort Bend and Brazoria counties.
Texas Instruments moves forward with plans in Sugar Land
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he City of Sugar Land and the Sugar Land Development Corporation recently approved an incentive package that supports plans by Texas Instruments Incorporated to locate a future business and development facility at the northeast corner of U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard in the Telfair commercial development area. Texas Instruments Incorporated will construct an approximate 160,000-square-foot office facility to be completed by early 2014. The facility will be constructed on a seven-acre site and bring more than 375 jobs to Sugar Land. The company elected to locate its research and development facility in Sugar Land after a regional search based on proximity to employees’ homes, local amenities and clarity of site-development plans. The new Texas Instruments facility will house employees that work in a variety of areas within the company’s embedded processing organization.
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“Texas Instruments has had a longstanding relationship with the city of Stafford, where we have had a site for 45 years,” said TI Houston Site Manager Curt Moore. “In January, we announced plans to sell the site in Stafford. TI is fully supportive of redevelopment efforts in Stafford and is actively coordinating with the city as the site shutdown and sale activities are proceeding. “We are appreciative of the ongoing support we have received from Fort Bend County and of their efforts to retain TI within the county. And we are very excited about our future home in Sugar Land and the opportunities this will bring. We look forward to forging new relationships with the business community in Sugar Land.” The City of Sugar Land’s Office of Economic Development created a multi- faceted incentive package that was recently approved by both the Sugar Land City Council and the Sugar Land Development Corporation to secure the research and development facility. March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
The incentive package was based on the company creating more than $35 million in new capital investment and providing more than 375 jobs for the city. “We are ecstatic to welcome a stellar Fortune 500 Company such as Texas Instruments to Sugar Land,” said Mayor James Thompson. “Texas Instruments’ corporate philosophy and national recognitions such as Fortunes ‘Most Admired Company’ closely aligns with the City’s standards for excellence and lays the foundation for a long-term partnership between the company and City.” Texas Instruments semiconductor innovations help 90,000 customers unlock the possibilities of the world as it could be – smarter, safer, greener, healthier and more fun. Their commitment to building a better future is ingrained in everything they do – from the responsible manufacturing of semiconductors, to caring for their employees, to giving back inside our communities. Learn more at http://www.ti.com/.
R E A L
E S T A T E
Commercial Real Estate
By Kolbe Curtice, CCIM, CLS
Managing Director Colliers International - Fort Bend
Moving Your Business? 1) What Are The Space Needs? Is adequate second generation space available in the market or will the business require newly constructed space? 2) Determine Future Needs Any commercial leasing decision should consider medium- to long-range business goals for leases. 1. Is your business growing or shrinking? 2. What are your brand values? 3. What are your preferred work settings? 4. What types of employees will you have in the future? 5. What will be your technology requirements in three years? 6. Are you considering acquiring or merging with other firms? 7. What effect will moving have on your customers and staff? 3) Involve Key Internal Decision-
Although a big part of our office’s core business revolves around assisting new businesses and investors to buy or lease commercial property here in Fort Bend County, as our business community has grown and matured over the past fifteen to twenty years, we are seeing an increasing number of companies approach us each year to assist them in finding space to relocate their existing businesses. Either their companies are growing and they are requiring expansion space, or the space they occupy has become dated and obsolete. Relocating a business generally requires a significant amount of research and planning. It is extremely important that business managers and business owners allocate sufficient time and resources to assure that the process runs smoothly and that interruptions in day to day business are minimal. Some of the things the owner/manager should consider include:
Makers It is important to appoint a project leader to connect with internal stakeholders as well as with your broker and consultants. 4) Know the Local Market and Commitments During this phase, you should familiarize yourself with local real estate market conditions and existing lease commitments. By knowing the market vacancy rates, supply projections, current rental rates and tenant incentives, you will be in a better position to evaluate various proposals. Colliers International can provide you with an office market presentation that describes these factors, both in your local market and in the specific submarkets you identify as most desirable.
KOLBE CURTICE... continued from page 41
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Professional Medical Office Building Opportunities • Telfair is the #1 Selling Community in Fort Bend •
Subscribe to commercial tract specific updates: www.telfair-commercial.com Kolbe M. Curtice CCIM
281 494 4769 MOB 281 802 2260 kolbe.curtice@colliers.com
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Corbin Janssen
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www.colliers.com/markets/sugarland Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
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Fort Bend Green seeks public input for Brazos River Recreation Master Plan
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ort Bend Green, along with public and private partners on an initial steering committee, is developing a Recreation Master Plan for the Brazos River Corridor. The Committee is seeking broad community input into a plan for the river. A short on-line survey has been created to collect the wishes of County residents and folks from outside the county that might enjoy using the Brazos River for recreation, or that have feelings about conserving this special river resource. The survey can be found at this link: www.surveymonkey.com/s/ Brazos_River_Recreation_Plan The survey should only take 15 minutes to complete. At the end, we welcome you to share any of your personal stories of the Brazos River. Fort Bend Green is asking
that organizations and individuals help in spreading the word about the survey. Fort Bend Green submitted a grant application to the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program for assistance in developing a Recreation Master Plan for the Brazos River Corridor in Fort Bend County Texas. Fort Bend Green was notified in November 2011 that it was selected for technical assistance. Since that time a Steering Committee has been working on components of a Recreation Master Plan. This survey is part of the Master Planning process. The initial goals of the committee are to identify recreation and conservation opportunities for Fort Bend County, and to help clarify projects and partners for those projects. Another goal is to help the various communities work across jurisdictional boundaries as a region to achieve
a unified project, and the unifying presence of the National Park Service (NPS) would assist in this process. This project would ultimately tie Austin County and Stephen F. Austin State Park north of Fort Bend County to Brazos Bend State Park and Brazoria County to the south of Fort Bend County and be an important connection between these two recreational tremendous assets. The Brazos River is the largest waterway in the county and has been called a natural divide; it can also be a connection point for the county. The Brazos River is approximately 75 river miles traversing the entire county meandering from north to south and is the longest river in the State of Texas. For More Information, please contact Kim Icenhower with Fort Bend Green at kim@icenhower.com.
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Y O U
A N D
Y O U R
T A X E S
Tax Smart
By Alan Sandersen
Sandersen Knox & Co. L.L.P.
The IRS goes fishing for unreported and under-reported income In a recently released study, the IRS estimated that under-reporting across taxpayer categories accounted for an estimated $376 billion of the gross tax gap. Not surprisingly, the IRS found that compliance is highest where there is thirdparty information reporting (1099 forms used to report taxable income earned that is not considered salary and wages) and/or withholding (W-2 forms). In the case of W-2 forms, the IRS found that a net of only 1% of wage and salary income was misreported; however, amounts subject to little or no information reporting had a 56 percent net misreporting rate in 2006, the most recent year available for the study.
In an effort to close part of that $376 billion tax gap, the IRS has changed some reporting requirements for 1099s for tax year 2012. Here are some of those key changes: 1099-MISC. The IRS will capture credit card collections income on a new form in addition to Form 1099-Misc income. Also, starting in 2012, compensation of $600 or more paid in a calendar year to an H-2A visa agricultural worker who did not give you a valid taxpayer identification number must be reported on 1099-MISC. Businesses will withhold federal income tax under the backup withholding rules. However, if a worker does furnish a valid taxpayer identification number, then they will get a Form W-2. The backup
Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
withholding is the key feature. 1099-B. New boxes have been added to Form 1099-B for reporting the stock or other symbol (box 1d), quantity sold (box 1e), whether basis is being reported to the IRS (box 6b), and state income tax withheld (boxes 13-15). Other boxes on the form have been moved or renumbered. In addition, brokers must report on Form 1099-B sales of covered securities by an S corporation if the S corporation acquired the covered securities after 2011.. Alan Sandersen is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is a Partner with Sandersen Knox & Co, L.L.P., Certified Public Accountants. He can be reached at 281-2423232. www.sktx.com. H
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Grand Opening celebration in Fort Bend area to include free coffee for the first week
New Dunkin’ Donuts to open in Missouri City
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unkin’ Donuts, America’s all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, has announced that it will open a new restaurant near Sienna Plantation in Missouri City at 9050 Highway 6, on Monday, March 4. To celebrate the grand opening, the restaurant will host a ribbon cutting with local community leaders, entertainment, prize giveaways, food samples and free medium coffees, hot or iced, through Sunday, March 10. The new restaurant will be open from 5:00 am – 11:00 pm, 7 days a week and will employ approximately 30 crew members. The restaurant will have comfortable seating and will provide a welcoming environment for guests to enjoy Dunkin’ Donuts’ food and beverages in a friendly and fun atmosphere. The new restaurant will also offer free Wi-Fi. It is situated in fast growing suburban Fort Bend, will offer a complete menu of Dunkin’ Donuts’ internationally recognized coffee, lattes, donuts and bakery goods. The restaurant will also serve items customized with flavors adapted to suit local taste preferences, such as Dark Chocolate Mocha Coffee and Lattes available in hot or iced, Heart Shaped Donuts featuring Cupid’s Choice (bavarian kreme filling, strawberry icing with heart sprinkles) and Brownie Batter Heart (brownie batter filling with chocolate icing and heart sprinkles). Additional menu items will include Bakery Sandwiches featuring Grilled Cheese, Turkey, Bacon and White Cheddar on a French Roll, Ham and White Cheddar on a French Roll, Tuna Salad, Chicken Salad and Tuna Melt on a Bagel, and – as an homage to a south Texas favorite – kolaches! “Dunkin’ Donuts is one of the world’s leading brands, and it has also become
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a favorite in the greater Houston area,” said Stephen David, franchisee and operations partner for the new Missouri City location. “We are proud to serve the people of Missouri City and the adjacent Sugar Land community, and we hope to become a popular destination for guests.” The franchise partners currently operate 5 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in the greater Houston area. Dunkin’ Donuts opened its first restaurant in Houston in the Bellaire suburb in 1966. Today, there are 5 new franchise groups developing new Dunkin’ Donuts locations in the greater Houston area with plans to open a total of 60 new locations in the next 8 years.
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
Dunkin’ Donuts sells more than one billion cups of hot and iced coffee and approximately 2.1 billion donuts and MUNCHKINS® donut hole treats combined globally per year. Today, there are more than 10,000 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants worldwide – more than 7,000 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in 36 states in the U.S. plus the District of Columbia, and more than 3,000 international restaurants in 31 additional countries. The company was founded in 1950. To learn more about Dunkin’ Donuts, visit www.DunkinDonuts. com or follow on Facebook (www. facebook.com/DunkinDonuts).
DIGITAL
STUDIO
VIDEOS
Behind the Scene
By Elsa Maxey
Executive Producer Star Video Productions
Video for your website – it’s time If you’re not using video on your website, you really want to do it. Over the last few years the use and application of information on business websites have both undergone significant changes. Let’s face it. Text on your website alone is passé. In today’s world, we are moving from websites that have more engaging images. While pictures are worth the proverbial thousand words, just imagine the word value of video! It actually matters less what the story is about than how well it’s told. You don’t have to narrate your videos to tell a story, the video and moving images can do that. But narration can also add another dimension. One thing is for sure, video is continuing to playing a growing role in company positioning and for promoting the company
itself. The video thing has been the next web happening in the evolving world of online communications. Again, if your website does not have video, it’s time to get it. Text web… passé, video… today! It’s the ‘next web’ moving away from text web, and whatever the communications evolution may bring, we are in the here and now. So,
post a video. For help, contact Star Digital Studios. We’re local and right in your Fort Bend neighborhood. Our services include Pre-Production, Scripting, Videography, Editing, Post-Production Effects, Posting, DVD Duplication and more. We also offer video deposition services to the legal community and will help you capture your family history on video to share with your loved ones. Come visit us at our studio. We have a teleprompter ready to put to use for your next video. Elsa Malakoff is a contributor to the Fort Bend Business Journal and Fort Bend Star and a Exevutive Producer of Star Video Productions. She can be reached at 281-690-4280. Go www.Starvideoproductions.com or email us elsamaxey@starvideoproductions.com.
IT’S HERE! Video. On Demand. 24/7. On your website. Are you taking advantage of this powerful tool to set yourself apart from the competition? You can now have your commercial playing around the clock to a global audience. Google and other search engines love video. A video on your website will place you higher in search rankings. And your customers love video. It’s dynamic and engaging. At Star Video Digital Productions, we can help you from conception to completion with your video marketing. Whether you need high-quality video for your website, a TV commercial for traditional cable or broadcast or a promotional video on DVD to deliver to potential customers, we can help.
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4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 500 • Stafford, TX 77477• www.starvideoproductions.com Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
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Why marketing goes wrong and what you can do about it By John Graham
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arketing is a mystery — at least that’s the way it seems when compared with just about every other company function. There’s plenty of talk about “marketing,” but efforts to nail it down, specifically, usually end in an uncomfortable silence. It makes the point that it’s difficult to get your arms around marketing. There are more “marketing geniuses” floating around than anyone can count. Everyone has an opinion as to what’s needed, what works and what doesn’t. And whatever marketing activities a company implements, there will always be those who rush forward with criticisms and complaints. Such turmoil may help explain why so many companies harbor serious doubts about marketing, others keep it on a short leash, and some solve the problem by turning it into a glorified “gofer” function. As it turns out, demystifying marketing is rather easy. After peeling away the nutty (and usually meaningless) jargon, marketing is simply aligning an organization’s products and services so customers come to identify with a brand. Unfortunately, much of what passes as “marketing” fails to pass the test. To better understand why marketing goes wrong and what can be done about it, here are six common pitfalls, obstacles and stumbling blocks: 1. Management believes it knows marketing. It’s not uncommon for the person in charge of marketing to report to someone who “loves marketing” and has strong opinions, but little or no marketing knowledge. This is often the same person who says, “I seem to have a flair for marketing.” In such a situation, the person charged with the marketing responsibilities has two options: either bang heads or cave-in to the pressure. An annual marketing plan that’s approved
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by management can help avoid such difficult and, frankly, depressing situations. Without that, there’s only chaos and unacceptable results. 2. Marketers make John Graham a splash rather than a difference. While management may a marketing culprit, marketers can be to blame, as well. Making a quick “impression” is often the goal. As one marketing manager said the first week on the job, “We’ll be rolling out a new logo in a couple of months.” The logo remained, while the marketing manager didn’t. Soon after arriving at Radio Shack as EVP and CMO, Lee Applbaum kicked off a campaign to rebrand the lack luster performance of this venerable company. It would now be known simply as “The Shack.” That didn’t last long and neither did Applbaum. Unfazed by reality, his final Tweet, as reported by the Dallas Business Journal, said it all, “Been a great 3.5 years @ RadioShack. Hopeful I had a positive impact on the brand. On to the next one.” Rather than listening to what a marketer says, it’s better to ask questions. For example, “What would be your plan for the first 90 days on the job?” 3. Lack of discipline. It’s easy for marketing to get out of hand, particularly when there are so many “great ideas” flying around every day. It takes a very strong person to listen and then say “no” to anything that’s off plan. Making exceptions and giving in can spell trouble. The best way to stand firm is to have carefully developed, absolutely clear and welldocumented objectives. 4. Failure to engage customers and prospects. Although it’s difficult to believe, the tendency to equate “selling” with “telling” persists. It’s hard to root it out of our thinking, particularly when anything less direct seems wimpish. March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
Yet, Lincoln Motor Company’s recent 60-second TV spot got it right by abandoning “telling,” starting with its “Steer the Script” title. They invited people to Tweet about their favorite road trip, and the spot featured excerpts from fun episodes, not the car. It ended this way: “The story starts with you because luxury always should.” And it isn’t just “luxury” that should start there. That’s where all marketing should begin. 5. Unrealistic budget. While there are always ways to improve marketing efficiency without damaging effectiveness, all-too-often companies expect those in marketing to produce extraordinary results with an under funded budget. There’s nothing wrong with a lean budget, but one that’s anorexic simply won’t work. Today, marketing tools cost money and not to take advantage of the latest technology is a prescription for failure if a company wants results to match its expectations. And, while junior marketers can add value, it takes a senior, experienced professional to steer the ship in the right direction. 6. Failure to think through the implications. Ron Johnson created Apple’s hugely successful Apple’s retail stores and then moved on to tackle JCPenney’s faltering brand. Soon after arriving, he rolled out a massive TV marketing campaign that succeeded in thoroughly confusing consumers who had been accustomed to 400 “sales” a year. When Women’s Wear Daily asked him how he was going to correct the problem, he told the interviewer that the marketing “overreached,” adding, “It didn’t do the hard work. People found it entertaining but it wasn’t doing what we needed to do to build our business.” Then he noted, “There was too much TV and not enough print.” To accomplish these objectives takes vision, innovative thought and persistence.
Overcoming Back or Neck Pain— may include the use of physical therapy and the use of back or neck braces,” says Larry Tran, M.D., board certified neurologist with Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates. “These options help to strengthen weak areas that support the spinal column and provide additional support. Exercises approved by a physical therapist can aid in recovery from injuries, minimize pain
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hen your spine operates properly and is in good health, you don’t even notice it. But the minute an injury, poor posture or bad work habits (e.g., improper lifting, sitting at a poorly fitted computer station) come into play and create unwanted back or neck pain — watch out! When proper function of the spine is compromised, getting back on track takes center stage. “Most physicians start with conservative treatments in dealing with back pain,” shares Jeffrey Wood, M.D., board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in diseases and deformities of the spine and with Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas. “Rest, pain relievers, muscle relaxants and steroid injections in the spine (nerve blocks) may all be tried first to alleviate pain and improve function.” “Other initial treatment approaches
Larry Tran, M.D. & Jeffrey Wood, M.D.
and help maintain a healthy spine.” When conservative treatment fails, surgical intervention is the last resort to alleviate back and neck pain. The following procedures, some of which are minimally invasive, are available at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital: • Discectomy • Laminectomy • Corpectomy • Spinal fusion To learn more about these treatments and other solutions to your back and neck pain, join us at our free seminar. Free Back & Neck Pain Seminar Whether you’ve had pain for just a few days or several years, we are here to help. Join Drs. Larry Tran and Jeffrey Wood to learn more and have your questions answered regarding back and neck pain. Thursday, April 11 from 6-7 p.m. Located at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Conference Center. Refreshments and door prizes. Reservations required, call 281-274-7500 or email SLRSVP@tmhs.org.
The MOST Complete ORTHOPEDIC CARE in FORT BEND COUNTY D. Dean Dominy, III, M.D. Hand & Upper Extremities
Kenneth M. Renney, M.D. Sports Medicine
Jeffrey B. Wood, M.D.
Diseases & Deformities of the Spine
Eddie T. Matsu, M.D.
General Orthopedics, Joint Replacement
Mark W. Maffet, M.D. Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas
Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) physicians are recognized as some of the finest board-certified physicians in the specialty of orthopedics. They provide comprehensive, world-class orthopedic care under one roof right here in Fort Bend County — from sports medicine to joint replacement, hand and wrist to ankle and spine care. They perform on a higher level, so you can, too.
To schedule an appointment, call 281-494-MOST (6678) or email MOSTappts@tmhs.org.
Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine
Timothy C. Sitter, M.D.
Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine
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Hand & Upper Extremities
Carl A. Hicks, M.D.
Joint Reconstructive Surgery
Christopher K. Smith, M.D.
Adult & Pediatric Orthopedics
David A. Braunreiter, M.D. Sports Medicine
Ray R. Valdez, M.D. Foot & Ankle
Anthony J. Muffoletto, M.D.
Diseases & Deformities of the Spine
281-494-MOST (6678) MethodistOrthopedics.com MOSTappts@tmhs.org
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Mental Illness — It is more common than you think By George Patterson, CEO Texana Center
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ith the recent unfortunate series of incidents in which innocent people were injured or killed (Tucson, Aurora, Newtown) the media and public have almost automatically linked those events with the perpetrators and their evident “mental illness.” In fact, there is evidence that each of the men who committed these acts did indeed either have or had a history of mental illness or are presumed to be in need of treatment for an undiagnosed mental illness. These events, and others like them, reinforce the public’s perception of a direct link between mental illness and violence and the belief that all mentally ill people are violent and dangerous. This perception is incorrect. There is a great deal of misunderstanding among the general public about mental illness in general and about the role mental illness plays in violent acts. I want to share some information that may clear up some of the misunderstanding.
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More common than cancer, diabetes, or heart disease, mental illness affects adults and children from every cultural, social, economic, gender and age group. • There is overwhelming evidence that the vast majority of people who suffer from mental illness George Patterson do not commit violent acts. Only about 4% of violence in the United States can be attributed to people with mental illness. • The public is misinformed about the link between violence and mental illness and believe that people with mental illness pose a threat for violence towards others and themselves. In fact, people with mental illness are far more likely to be the victims of violent crime. People with severe mental illness are 2 ½ time more likely to be attacked, raped or mugged than the general population. • Almost 21% of U.S. children and adolescents have a diagnosable mental disorder causing functional impairment at home, at school, or in the community. Around 60% of them never get mental health services. Mental health problems in adolescents can increase their use of substances such as alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs, often in an effort to self-medicate. Studies suggest that adolescents with depression are over three times as likely to have used illicit drugs as non-depressed teens. • Inaccurate beliefs about mental illness and violence lead to widespread stigma and discrimination. Stigma leads others to avoid living, socializing, working with, renting to, or employing people with mental disorders. Responding to stigma, people with mental health problems internalize public attitudes and become so embarrassed or ashamed that they often conceal symptoms and fail to seek treatment. • Alcohol and drug abuse are far more likely to result in violent behavior than mental illness by itself. For example, people with no mental disorder who abuse alcohol or drugs are nearly 7 times as likely as those without substance abuse to commit violent acts. Unfortunately, in Texas, the treatment of individuals with mental illness is a very low priority. Depending on the source, Texas is either dead last or next to last among states in per capita spending for treatment services. And the difference is significant. While the average per capita expenditure among states is about $120, in our state it is $39. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that one in four adults (about 58 million Americans) experience a mental health disorder in any given year. Nearly one of every two people in this country will suffer from depression, anxiety disorders or another mental health condition at some point in their life. Most of them are functioning, productive members of our community. They live in our neighborhoods, work in our businesses, go to our schools and churches, and
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
support the economy. This is because they receive timely and appropriate treatment for their condition. However, untreated mental illness takes a huge toll in terms of the cost to society, both in terms of financial cost and loss of quality of life. From a financial perspective, according to research by the Harvard University Medical School, untreated mental illnesses cost the U.S. at least $105 billion annually. According to another study, this is the result of 35 million lost workdays every year. That is largely due to the fact that 60% of Americans with a mental health disorder remain untreated. In our communities in Fort Bend County, there are limited resources for those who seek treatment for mental illness. Texana Center is the largest provider of those services, primarily targeting those with severe and persistent mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression. The majority of patients with these diagnoses receive a combination of medications and supportive services. The cost of these services is determined by a sliding scale based on income, so those who cannot afford the full cost of treatment pay according to their ability. Texana also provides crisis intervention services to those who may be at risk of harm to themselves or others around the clock. However, the resources that we offer are not enough to meet the growing demand. As awareness of the problems of mental illness increases, as the population of Fort Bend County explodes, and the call for early education and prevention programs gets more urgent, additional funding and resources are essential if we are to properly assess and treat persons with mental illness. Unfortunately, this lack of funding and resources often leads to people being treated in hospital emergency rooms and jails. These are not only the wrong places to provide essential care, they are considerably more expensive than treatment through Texana Center. Texana Center is a locally governed 501(c)3 non-profit organization headquartered in Rosenberg. In addition to mental health, the Center also provides a wide range of services in the areas of intellectual disabilities (formerly referred to as mental retardation), developmental disabilities, and the broad range of autism spectrum conditions in six counties, the largest of which is Fort Bend. Texana has a relatively large business presence in the County, employing in excess of 550 staff and with an annual operating budget in the County of nearly $27 million for services in this county. Texana serves in excess of 7,500 individuals each year in Fort Bend County and over 10,000 across the region.
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Not an every day diagnosis
The Sally Yates story: Self research and second opinions provide a health solution By B.J. Pollock
T
he old adage, “You only have one life to live,” doesn’t quite ring true for Sally Yates. She feels as if she’s been given a new life thanks to her diligent and devoted husband, Charlie. “He was more aware of what was happening to me than I was, but I was showing signs of dementia and it was really kind of odd,” Sally said. “I’m a math person, but it got to where I could not figure out the tip when we’d go out to eat.” That was just the beginning. Medical background helpful Sally, 69, is an intelligent outgoing woman who has spent most of her adult life volunteering to serve others. She was a trustee for Lamar Consolidated Independent School District for 12 years and spent nearly two decades as president of the board of St. John’s School for Little Children in Richmond. Her dedication to education earned her recognition as School Board Member of the Year for the State of Texas. Sally earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Rice University and her master’s in math education from the University of Houston. She taught one year at Lamar High School in Houston and a few years at Irving High School in Irving before deciding to devote herself to volunteering at schools. The Yateses have resided in Richmond for about 37 years. They have four children and eight grandchildren, and are thrilled that they all live within a 30-minute drive. Sally and Charlie have been married nearly 49 years, and when he noticed changes in the love of his life, he wasn’t about to lose her. Charlie, 72, earned his bachelor of arts degree and his doctorate degree in biology from Rice. He attended medical school at
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University of Texas (UT) Southwestern and interned at Baylor, both in Dallas. He did his residency in radiology at UT Combined Residency in Radiology in Houston and practiced at St. Joseph’s Hospital in downtown Houston for 30 years before retiring in 2001. His medical background served his wife well when her health began to decline.
Sally Yates
Not just aging A math whiz by nature, Sally has always calculated certain portions of the couple’s income tax each year. “I’m good at algebra, so I could figure out how to do it easily,” she said. “So when it got to the point where I couldn’t do it, that shook me up and it shook Charlie up. Some time later, I got to where I was shuffling my feet and it would take me 10 minutes to walk across the room. It was awful.” Charlie said the symptoms began in September of 2011, when he “noticed that she wasn’t remembering things terribly well.” “It got to the point where I’d be expecting a phone call and I’d get home and say, ‘Did Tom call?’ and Sally would say, ‘No,’ and I’d call him and he’d say, ’I did call; I talked to Sally,’” Charlie recalled. “At first, I thought, ‘Well, we’re getting older.’” But when it reached the point where Sally couldn’t estimate a tip, Charlie knew it wasn’t just an age-related issue with which they were dealing. “Then, in January (2012), we were working on taxes and she couldn’t calculate, March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
and she’s done that all our married lives, so that worried me terribly,” he said. “Her walking was getting worse, and by February she couldn’t get out of the bathtub. At first I was worried about Alzheimer’s and then I was concerned that she had some form of Parkinson’s to go with it.” By late February, Sally had also become incontinent and Charlie decided it was time to do some extensive research. “I didn’t understand what was going on, as far as the stuff in my head, but I figured the stuff with my feet was just the extension of the arthritis that I’ve had for years. But then, all of a sudden, I got incontinent where I could not make it to the bathroom,” Sally recalled. “I hadn’t gone to the doctor with any of the symptoms, particularly, because I really didn’t think they were symptoms, I guess; I don’t know. I just thought other things, like arthritis, were getting worse.” Diagnosis confirmed But before long, it became crystal clear that it was time to see a physician. “Sally did not realize how bad off she was; she was demented enough that she didn’t know how bad things were,” Charlie remembered. “She was not aware of things like the day I was meeting some people for lunch at Italian Maid Café (in downtown Richmond) and she wanted to go down there. Our maid brought her down and she was walking across the street and she stopped in the middle of the street to look at the sunshine or the birds or whatever, and cars are going by and I’m saying, ‘Sally, come on!’ And she said, ‘Don’t rush me!’ You can’t get mad because you know it’s not their fault, but it’s so frustrating.” As Charlie’s research continued, he discovered what he thought was the reason for Sally’s condition: normal pressure hydrocephalus. “Charlie got all excited. He said, ‘Sally, I know what’s wrong with you!’ and he got an appointment with my internist,” Sally said.
“By that time my condition had worsened, so I asked him to go with me and he’d never been to a doctor appointment with me before. He told the doctor he thought it was normal pressure hydrocephalus. It’s symptoms are wacky, which I certainly was, and wobbly, which I certainly was, and wet, due to incontinence, which I certainly had. If you have all three of those, they can put a shunt in your brain and drain off the extra fluid, and it’s amazing.” The surgery didn’t happen as quickly as one might think, said Charlie, but the results were incredible. It took two weeks to get an appointment with the internist and another two to see the neurologist and schedule an MRI to confirm Charlie’s diagnosis. Dr. Dong Kim, chairman of Department of Neurosurgery at the UT Medical School in Houston, agreed Sally had normal pressure hydrocephalus, and scheduled her surgery for Monday, May 14. He placed a shunt in her brain to drain the excess fluid, and the result was miraculous. Dong performed surgery on Arizona Congresswoman Gabby Giffords after she was shot Jan. 8, 2011, in what was thought to be an assassination attempt.
“So we got a great surgeon,” Charlie said, declaring only the best is good enough for his wife. “In all, it was two months from the time Sally became incontinent until she had her surgery. On the third day after the surgery she was walking, and on the fourth day we put away the rubber sheets.” Sally was able to go home the day after the operation, and remained in bed that day and the next. “I was in bed and not very strong,” she recollected. “But four days after the surgery, some friends came to visit and I got up and walked down the hall and into the den before I realized I was not using my walker. So I made some iced tea for them, and it was absolutely amazing!” Spreading the word Charlie said in most cases, the cause of normal pressure hydrocephalus is unknown. He said in about 2 percent of people diagnosed with the condition, it’s caused by a tumor or bleeding on top of the head; but in 98 percent of cases, like Sally’s, the cause remains a mystery. Normally, he said, fluid made in the ventricles passes down the spinal cord and
into the pelvis, and is reabsorbed into the top of the brain. When normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs, he said, “you continue to produce the fluid normally, but you don’t reabsorb it normally and nobody knows why.” “Supposedly,” he added, “10 to 15 percent of people in nursing homes who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s really have this condition, so that’s terrible; that’s between 750,000 and a million to 1.4 million people. The sooner you get this surgery done, the better the chances of complete recovery, but there are rare cases of people who have had it for five years and recover. In Sally’s case, it was very, very bad, but they gave me my wife back, so that was great!” For her part, Sally said she’s on a mission to let people know there may be hope when all seems lost. “You know how people say, ‘Why me?’ Well, I think there’s a very good reason that this happened to me: because I don’t mind talking about it,” Sally said. “I SALLY YATES, continued from page 30
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The Honorable Robert J. Kern looks back, and looks ahead By Wayne Chandler
W
hen Robert J. Kern retired from the bench in January as the only judge that the 387th District Court in Fort Bend County had ever had, he completed a self review of his 13 years of making decisions which changed people’s lives: An estimated 70,000 hearings involving adoptions, divorces, child custodies, family violence and Children’s Protective Services cases. Each ran their own gamut of emotions. Each case was important, but it was the adoption cases that became endearingly special to him. In the some 3,000 adoptions which passed through his court, the files remain confidential but the judge believes that virtually all of them have had wholesome outcomes. Some of these families have been back for at least one more child. Each child in Judge Kern’s proceedings
The Sally Yates story: Self research and second opinions provide a health solution SALLY YATES, continued from page 29
taught biology, so I kind of know how this happened. But I feel like I don’t mind talking about it because you don’t want anybody to go through what we went through, because most people wouldn’t know what it was. The amazing thing is, if you get online and look up normal pressure hydrocephalus, you will find story after story after story like mine. It’s bizzare, and yet nobody’s really looking for this. If people aren’t looking for this as a possibility, then you get so far along and it’s too late to get the shunt put in.” Sally has been taking physical therapy since having her right hip replaced in 2005, but the results she’s seen since her surgery last
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completed the happy occasion with a teddy bear, a tradition the judge himself initiated. He also prides himself on never ever allowing Robert Kern an acquaintance or a friendship to influence his judgments. “I’ve never taken so much as a cup of coffee in this regard,” Judge Kern stated. Now nearing 70 years of age, he said that he could have continued on in this judgeship. “I’m in good health, but there are a number of things that I want to enjoy now,” he said. “I want to enjoy life more with my wife Suzy. And, I like going to my ranch and driving my tractor,” he smiled. Yet, he is not ending his judicial career. He has agreed to serve as a visiting judge, and he may be called to fill in on special cases. “I want to go to some other counties, some other courts, and see how other people do things,” he added. He’s also been active in the community.
year have been so dramatic that she’s become quite the advocate for physical therapy. “It’s amazing how much better I’m doing,” she said cheerily, as she prepared to head out the door for a fun-filled day. “The reason it’s so important to get the word out is for all the people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. If you have this instead, it’s curable by draining off the fluid.” The Yateses hope their story will inspire others to get second opinions on diagnoses of conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. “We don’t know what caused it, but they put this shunt in my head and I’m telling you, it’s a miracle; it’s an absolute miracle! I lost a year and it’s just been nuts, but I’ve got me a real smart husband and I’m so proud of him,” Sally said with a laugh. “I am one of the blessed ones, I tell you. We’re very, very, very lucky.” March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
He and Suzy are longtime members of Sugar Land First United Methodist Church, and he’s president-elect of the Sugar Land Exchange Club. Years ago he represented his club in presenting to local elementary schools a collection of documents that included the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. Last July, he spoke at an immigration hearing in Houston where some 3,000 individuals became U.S. citizens. “There were 5,000 people waving small American flags,” the judge said. “It was great. I never shook so many hands.” Judge Kern likes to remind friends of President Ronald Reagan‘s 1986 State of the Union comment, “the American family is the foundation of this country.” The judge said that he always kept that in mind as he deliberated every situation. The judge had served 31 years in private practice when he was among 40 lawyers in Fort Bend County who applied for judge of the new 387th court. Kern was selected by Texas Governor George W. Bush in September 1999. Judge Kern was reelected without opposition to each term until he announced his retirement. Judge Kern served as legal counsel for nearly 5,000 state and federal cases in his three decades in civil and family law. He was graduated from the University of Texas in 1965, with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, attended UT Law School, and was admitted to the Texas State Bar in 1968, and the southern and western federal courts. He has completed professional courses and seminars totaling thousands of hours since law school, including a score of advanced family law courses. He has a host of professional certificates and awards, including four in this past year. He is proud to be the only district judge in Texas who became board certified in Family Law when he passed the first certification exam administered by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in 1975. Now, Judge Kern welcomes a new life, but with a fond look back at families in Fort Bend County.
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Promoting fun at home and the Rosenberg Railroad Museum
Businessman Bill Rickert explores railroading in his backyard museum in 2004. It has become the focal for the museum’s summer camps, Super Science Saturdays, and the numerous birthday parties held on the grounds. It also houses a large HO train layout assembled by Master Model Railroader Russell Straw. In November, during Model Railroad Month, Straw and the Fort Bend Model Railroad Club display their giant N-scale layout of Fort Bend County, including such landmarks as Sugar Land’s Imperial Sugar plant. Also located on the museum grounds is the old city jail, about which little is known. It was built some time between 1880-1930 and is a small brick structure with four one-bed bunks and four barred windows.
T
he museum is modeled after the city’s original depot, which served the Santa Fe and Southern Pacific railroads from 1883-1917. It was located just north of the museum grounds at 1921 Ave. F in Rosenberg. Tours begin in the museum gallery with an 8-minute film about the eight railroads that once served Fort Bend County. Exhibited in the gallery are artifacts and photos from those railroads and from the county as a whole. Objects used by employees in the depots, rail yards and along the tracks are on display as are buttons, badges, tools, lamps, lanterns, china and flatware, locks and keys, brochures and timetables, and much more. On campus is the 1897 Quebec rail car that was built by Northern Railway of Canada for use as a passenger coach until it was bought by the Canadian government in 1922 and converted to a business car. In 1962, she was retired to a rail yard in Winnipeg and scheduled for demolition, but was rescued by American rail enthusiast Arthur E. LaSalle. She spent time on display in Florida and New Mexico before being purchased by the George Ranch Historical
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Park in Richmond in 1981, and then by the Rosenberg Railroad Museum two years later. Restored to the full glory of a late 19th century business car, she reopened to the public in June, 2009. A red caboose, built in 1972 for the Missouri Pacific Railroad, now calls the museum home. Like many cabooses, it was replaced in the 1908s by a small electronic box called a Flashing Rear End Device, which monitors a train’s brake system and displays the results in the locomotive. Upon its retirement, the caboose was first obtained by Dow Chemical, which donated it to the Houston Children’s Museum in 1992. That museum, in turn, donated it to the Rosenberg Railroad Museum in 2007. Authorized by the Texas Railroad Commission on July 23, 1903, Tower 17 now proudly oversees the museum grounds. Its function was to house the electromechanical interlocker, which controlled the railroad signals and switches, setting the route for any train passing through Rosenberg. In 2004, the Tower 17 interlocker was one of the last to be replaced by a computer. It was later donated and relocated to the museum. The Mayde Waddell Butler Education Station is housed in a facility donated to the March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
By B.J. Pollock
“All aboard!” As president of the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, that’s the message businessman Bill Rickert wants to get out to the entire county. “It’s named the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, but it’s really a museum for the whole community,” he said. “It’s named for Henry Rosenberg, not for the city.” Born in Switzerland in 1824, Henry Rosenberg arrived in Galveston at the age of 19 and eventually became a business leader and philanthropist. From 1874-1877, he served as president of the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway Company. In 1880, tracks were laid 3 miles to the west of Richmond, where Union Depot was built in 1889 and the emerging town was named in honor of Rosenberg. Located at 1921 Ave. F in Rosenberg, the museum which also bears his name boasts everything from an 1879 rail car to a 1972 caboose, a tower station built in 1903 to an education station that houses an authentic HO model train layout. RAILROAD, continued on page 34
ATTENTION : Fort Bend High School Seniors
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Congratulations to Gilian Bentulan, a senior at Dulles High School, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for March! Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development, presents the $1000 check. At Dulles High School, Gilian is a member of the National Honor Society and a member of the band as a drum major and drill instructor. Gilian has received multiple awards for his academic performance, including the Academic Excellence Award. Gilian is also an active member of the community, teaching free saxophone lessons at Dulles Middle School, serving in Dulles High School’s Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALs) program and as a teen summer volunteer at M.D. Anderson. Gilian will attend the University of Houston this fall as a music and nursing major. Gilian was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Find complete information at www. fortbendfocus.com.
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Promoting fun at home and the Rosenberg Railroad Museum RAILROAD, continued from page 32
Bill was enamored from the first moment he visited the museum a few years ago. As a longtime rail enthusiast, he has hundreds of trains of his own, and even wanted to make an entry into his New Territory home so his outdoor train could easily come in for the night. His wife, Lisa, loves the trains as well, but said, “I did have to draw the line. I said, ‘No, we’re not going to cut an entrance into our bedroom to store them; we’ll have to do something else.’ So we built a storage shed.” Passionate for garden railways The track Bill wanted to tunnel into the house is what’s known as a garden railway, with much larger cars than those one usually thinks of when picturing a model train. It’s so named because it’s set up outside, in a yard or garden. Part of the fun is that the landscape - as well as the tracks and cars, themselves - can be ever-changing. “He has whole cities,” Lisa said. “We’re building a little town right now that’s kind of modeled after the small town in Louisiana where we lived before we moved here.” Garden railing began growing in popularity about 20 years ago, and was perfect for the Rickerts. “I fell in love with it,” Lisa said. “It’s like having a living, breathing railroad in your back yard.” At first, Lisa worked mainly on the landscapes while Bill laid the tracks, but she enjoys building things, so it was only natural
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that they’d end up working together on the entire venture. Improvisations most folks would never dream of are necessary when it comes to bringing a city down to size in scale. The couple does a great deal of research before choosing the proper plants. “Most garden railroaders are from California or up north, so the plants they use won’t survive here,” Lisa explained. The Rickerts learned how to prune shrubs to make them look like miniature trees, and are careful to purchase plants with small leaves to match the scale of their railroad community. Although Lisa grew up with brothers who liked model trains, she wasn’t a huge fan of model railroading before she met Bill. But she immediately saw his “great love and a passion for trains” and it quickly became a hobby they enjoyed together. “This is something we both have a big passion for, and now we have a creek that runs through our back yard and resembles a river,” Lisa said with a laugh. “I definitely married a man who enjoys trains, and I’ve jumped on board.” Continuing to grow The Rickerts will be married 30 years come June, and they have two daughters who enjoy the trains as well. They’ll be empty nesters once their youngest daughter graduates from high school this year, so they expect to have even more time to perfect their backyard dream world. They moved to Sugar Land in 1992 and have been active in the community ever since. Bill runs the seismic processing business sector for North and South America for Petroleum Geo-Services. Lisa spends a lot of time volunteering and is involved with Girl Scouts, serves on the health advisory board for OakBend Medical Center and is a member of a Municipal Utility District board. “She’s also helping me with the museum; she’s my right-hand person,” Bill said. He’s served on the Rosenberg Railroad Museum board since 2011, and took the reins last September when longtime president Bob Vogelsang had to step down to focus on March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
some business ventures. Bill was re-elected in January and hopes to spread the word about the hidden treasure located in historic downtown Rosenberg. The Rosenberg Railroad Museum was just a dream when a committee was formed in 1992 to determine the feasibility of such a facility. The following year, the Atchison, Topeka, & Santa Fe Railway Company donated 1.47 acres of land on the west side of Third Street and north of Avenue F for the museum. A few months later, the first of many fundraisers was held. In the summer of 1994, a foundation was prepared for the 1897 Quebec rail car, and it arrived the following year. By the end of 1998, construction began on the museum gallery. It was completed in 2002, and on June 6-8 of that year, thousands of people converged on the museum for its grand opening. Thanks to its many members, volunteers, as well as the public itself, said Bill, the museum continues to grow. Approximately 10,000 school students visited the museum grounds last year. “The museum is for all the county and the region as a whole,” he said. “The big thing with the museum is, the history of Fort Bend County is centered around the railroads. The first railroad in Texas was between Houston (Harrisburg) and Richmond. The whole county has depended on the railroad; from the sugar factory (in Sugar Land), to the shipments of wartime materials and military personnel, to oil and gas tankers during the oil boom, cattle cars during the ranching era, sulphur, lumber and automobile industry cars, the shipping of cotton and rice and, of course, passenger rail tied us to the port route
at Galveston.” In fact, in Galveston there’s a statue of Henry Rosenberg in front of the main entrance to the Rosenberg Library at 2310 Sealy Street. Join the fun Bill is a walking encyclopedia when it comes to trains and the railroad in general, and it’s something he comes by naturally. “My father introduced me to model trains. My grandfather and great-uncles were all involved in railroading, and I’ve always had model trains since I was a little kid,” he said. “They had just about every railroad occupation you can think of - everything. Back in those days, the railroad ran the old-fashioned way.” Bill said as his daughters grew and the family needed additional room, more and more of his trains had to be relocated. “I kept getting boxed out, where I couldn’t get to my trains, so finally my wife and I enjoy working outdoors so we decided to build a garden railway,” he said. “It’s something we both enjoy. She does the gardening and some of the buildings, and I do the track and details, so it makes a good joint hobby.” This past Christmas, the Rickerts took some of Bill’s old Thomas trains with little wooden tracks to his cousin’s daughter in New Orleans, and she was ecstatic. Still, he has plenty left of models and tracks at home.“Gee, I’ve got probably hundreds of trains,” he said. His love of trains led him and his family to the Rosenberg Railroad Museum for the first time more than a decade ago, but when their neighbor, Jim Vollmer, invited them to a fundraising gala a couple of years ago, they really hopped on board. “Recently I posted some videos of my trains on You Tube and the person who was running the museum at the time contacted me; then Bob (Vogelsang) asked me to join the board and here I am now,” Bill said. “We’ve really gotten involved and I’m looking forward to building financial stability for the museum’s future.” To that end, Lisa is chairing the museum’s upcoming Rail Fest set for 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 13. “It’s a great opportunity to show off the museum,” she said. “They have a lot of great activities for children and adults, and it’s set in the 1930s. We’re going to bring in hobo re-enactors to show us what it was like for men who were jobless or in need of transportation during The Depression, traveling from city to city, and how the rail provided some their only opportunity to find work.” The festival will feature plenty of games and crafts for children, exhibits for the entire family, and even a trackless train for youngsters to ride. There will also be live musical performances and concessions for people of all ages. “It’s a great day for families to come out,” Lisa said. Rail Fest is included in the museum’s regular admission price, which is $5 for adults, $4 for senior citizens age 55 and older, and $3 for children ages 2-14. There is no charge for children lass than 2 years old. For more information about the Rail Fest or for the museum in general, visit www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org or call 281-633-2846. You can also visit www.youtube.com/billrickert to see videos of some of the Rickerts’ trains.
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Library offers technology classes for small business entrepreneurs Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sienna Branch Library will present a series of technology classes in March that are designed to assist small-business owners with various aspects of their business. The classes present business applications for Microsoft Publisher, digital photography, and website development. All classes begin at 10:00 am, in the Computer Lab of the library, located at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd in Missouri City. On Tuesday,March 19, learn how to use Microsoft Publisher to enhance the operation and promotion of a business. Microsoft Publisher 2007 is a versatile program containing numerous templates, pieces of clip art, and a host of other features. The software program enables individuals to make cards, invitations, forms, banners, signs, and many other items.
The class on Wednesday,March 20, will be “Digital Photography: Small-Business Uses.” Learn how to edit and optimize photographs for use on a website, without having to buy expensive software. On Thursday,March 21, the library will present “Build Your Own Website: SmallBusiness Uses.” Learn how to create a business website for free using Google Sites. This online tool offers simple tools to create a customized website that will increase the visibility and accessibility of a business. The programs are free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and reservations are required. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Calendar,” select “Sienna Branch,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the library at 281-238-2952, or by visiting the library.
Salata opens in Sugar Land Town Square Salata is open and serving healthy food options in Sugar Land Town Square. Salata, a create-your-own salad bar, offers diners the opportunity to customize salads and wraps with a wide variety of fresh ingredients to choose from. Located at 2170 Town Square Place, Salata occupies 2,847 square feet of space, according to PlannedCommunity Developers, Ltd. The Town Square location is the restaurant’s
eighteenth system-wide, and is designed using similar finishes found in other Salata restaurants. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner service every Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For a complete list of Sugar Land Town Square retailers and restaurants, visit SugarLandTownSquare.com. More information about Salata may be found online at MySalata.com.
Mental Health America of Fort Bend County elects new chairman Mental Health America of Fort Bend County announced a change in Chairman leadership that occurred at the annual meeting. David Armstrong, previous chair, is shown presenting the gavel to Teresa Cox Reading. Reading will serve as chairman for the 501 (C) 3 organization for the next 3 years. The Board of MHA Ft. Bend County Board
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of Directors consists of Deanna Clapsaddle; Celeste Conlon; Linda Knewtson; Bernadette Onouha; Asma Rahim; Teresa Reading; John Redd; Laura Richard; and Raechel Robinson. Any for been county resident who is interested in joining the organization is asked to contact the Executive Director Jeanne Wallace by calling (281) 207-2480. March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
Library’s Genealogy Manager to speak on researching U.S. Civil War Records In conjunction with the exhibit, “Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War,” which is on display at George Memorial Library, Fort Bend County Libraries will present a special program, “Researching U.S. Civil War Records,” on Tuesday, March 12, beginning at 10:00 am, in the Computer Lab at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. The program is presented by Daniel Sample, manager of the Genealogy and Local History Department at the library. Sample will show researchers how to trace ancestors who served on either side in the U.S. Civil War. Learn how and where to obtain copies of compiled military service records and pension-application files for both Union and Confederate soldiers. Databases such as Ancestry.com, Family Search and Fold3 will be discussed, as well as websites such as the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System website and the American Civil War Homepage. Those attending the program are invited to tour the exhibit, “Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War,” which is on display in the Bohachevsky Gallery in the lower level of George Memorial Library through April 4. Drawing on recent scholarship, this exhibition encourages a deeper understanding of Lincoln’s life, policies, and accomplishments. The program is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and reservations are required. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us), click on “Calendar,” select “George Memorial,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the library at 281-341-2608, or by visiting the library’s Local History and Genealogy Department.
NEWSWORTHY
Contract Land Staff goes international With the Acquisition of Peterson Land Consulting Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Sugar Land, Texas. Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS), a nationwide Land Management and Right of Way Consulting firm located in Sugar Land, announced their expansion into Canada with the acquisition of Peterson Land Consulting. Based in Edmonton, Alberta Canada, Peterson Land Consulting has specialized in land and right of way services for electrical generation, transmission and distribution acquisition, as well as experience in Pipelines, Substations, Compressor stations and Lease site projects since 1995. “We are very pleased to announce this acquisition and partnership with Peterson Land Consulting which further demonstrates Contract Land Staff’s ongoing investment and commitment to the Right of Way industry, and continues CLS’s growth internationally, enabling us to serve our international as well as domestic clients” said Brent Leftwich, President and CEO. “We are excited to leverage PLC’s electric experience and paired with our extensive electric and pipeline experience this will allow us to expand geographically, while continuing to provide quality services in the U.S. and Canada.” “This investment ensures that CLS is positioned not only to meet the needs of our clients today, but into the future as well. The quality Right of Way services Contract Land Staff’s clients have come to expect will continue to be available, but now both in the U.S. and Canada.” John Peterson, founder and prior president of Peterson Land Consulting will now serve on the Board of Peterson Land Consulting with Dan Vass serving as Vice President of Operations. Brent Leftwich, President and CEO will continue to serve in his present position for the combined company.
Who cares about water in Texas? By Mike Barnett
So who cares about water in Texas? Farmers and ranchers, obviously. The rest of the state? Not so much. At least that’s the conclusion faculty members at the University of Texas made after examining public opinion polls of issues that matter most to Texans. The economy, immigration and education are top of mind for most. Yet water—that life-giving resource—registers as a top issue with only 4 percent. That’s a real concern. Rural Texans understand burn bans, dry wells and short pastures. Drought is not a word. It is a reality they live with every day. For most urban Texans, water is something that comes out of the tap. Every time. There’s plenty to keep the lawn green. There’s plenty to keep the pool brimming. Urban areas are an oasis in a sea of Texas brown. And that’s a dangerous mirage for our future. How long this lack of concern continues is a $53 billion question. That’s the amount the Texas Water Development Board estimates it will take to
fund the State Water Plan, a roadmap to meet the needs of a booming Texas population for the next 50 years. Fortunately, the Texas legislature is paying Mike Barnett attention, and both Texas House and Senate leadership has expressed the need this session to kick start the plan with revenue from the Rainy Day Fund. And that’s good. But there’s also a danger. Agriculture—with a stellar record of improving efficiency and conservation and doing much more with less over the last two decades—is still the top water user in the state. And as water gets more expensive and sources disappear, a clamor could arise to take agriculture’s water—drying up livelihoods, a rich agriculture heritage and ultimately, the food supply. That’s why water needs to be a top concern of all Texans. Conservation and planning for future water needs is a conversation all Texans need to be engaged in now. Waiting until the tap runs dry is far too late.
Learn about legal resources at Sugar Land Library Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sugar Land Branch Library will present the program, “Legal Resources at the Library,” on Monday, March 4, beginning at 6:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 550 Eldridge. Law Librarian Joseph Lawson will discuss the informational legal resources that are available for free through Fort Bend County Libraries, including government documents such as cases and statutes, and self-help legal resources. These print and online sources offer
Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
information for non-lawyers on a wide variety of topics, such as divorce law, criminal law, the legal process, and much more. The material that will be discussed is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of an attorney. Librarians cannot provide legal advice or recommend specific forms. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the branch library at 281-238-2140 or the library’s Public Information Office at 281-341-2677.
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IN NAMES THE NEWS
GOT NEWS? Send your press release to sharon@fortbendbusinessjournal.com
Ronique Robinson receives board certification in family law The Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) inducted 185 attorneys and paralegals from around the state into its board certification program in February. Ronique Robinson Stafford attorney Ronique Bastine Robinson was included There are more than 70,000 attorneys licensed to practice in Texas and only 7,000 are Board Certified. This designation gives Ms.
Robinson the highest public commitment to excellence in Family Law. See the press release below regarding TBLS’ induction ceremony and the certification program. With her new certification, she intends to expand her practice. In addition to being certified in Family Law, Ms. Robinson is a senior staff member at Bastine and Associates where she specializes in environmental and business litigation opportunities and is the Associate Municipal Judge for the City of Stafford.
Vendor’s-Love-a-Fair a huge success The WCR’s Vendor’s Love-a-Fair was a huge success with over 33 Vendors and about 200 attendees on February 14 at Sweetwater Country Club. Jerry Poscovsky and Joan Berger talked in front of Fort Bend Star Hot Properties display table. The Fort Bend Star Hot Properties is changing the face of real estate. Real Estate in Fort Bend is marketed. Jerry is telling Joan about the Open House and Tour for The Fort Bend Star Hot Properties on March 13th. from 5-7 PM at Star Digital Studios 4655 Techniplex Dr., in Stafford.
Three reappointed to Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors Three Texas residents have been reappointed to the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors for terms to expire Feb.1, 2019. The board oversees the licensing and regulation of professional counselors in Texas. Sarah Abraham of Sugar Land is vice president of Transtar. She is an interpreter at Crossword Translations and a counselor at Living Water Christian Church. She is a board member of Telfair Life, ASPIRE Houston Community College and Harmony School of Science, and a member and past president of the Hunterwood Municipal Utilities District. She is also past athletic and academic competition judge for the Fort Bend Independent School District, and a past member of the Texas Private Sector Prison Industries Oversight Authority. Abraham received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and certification as a Christian
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counselor from the International Institute for Christian Counselor Training. Steven D. Christopherson of Pasadena is a licensed professional counselor for ProAct and a retired school counselor in the Pasadena Independent School District. He is a member of the Texas Counseling Association and a pastoral counselor at Greater Harvest Community Church. He is also a karate instructor at the American Society of Karate, and a judge for the Chinwoo Kung Fu Federation. Christopherson received a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in counseling from the University of Houston at Clear Lake. Leslie F. Pohl of Austin is an instructor for the Princeton Review. She is a member of the Travis County Medical Alliance and a past member of the Junior League of Austin. Pohl received a bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin.
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
Joan Berger of Heritage Texas Properties and host Jerry Poscovsky of Fort Bend Star Hot Properties.
Zerwas receives appointments to committees Texas State Representative John Zerwas has been named chairman of House General Investigating and Ethics committee, while also serving on the House Appropriations Committee in the Texas Legislature. Zerwas saw the importance of the House General Investigating and Ethics committee.
IN NAMES THE NEWS
Eric Methvin, PE, joins LJA Engineering Eric Methvin, PE, has eight years of experience in structural engineering including the modeling, analysis, and design of concrete and steel structures for various bridges such Eric Methvin as direct connectors, overpasses, creek crossings, railroad bridges, and design-build projects. His design experience also consists of various types of water and wastewater structures including wastewater treatment
plants, lift stations, wingwalls for drainage structures, junction boxes, and storm water pump stations. He has worked on a variety of projects for HCTRA, TxDOT, NTTA, DART, CTRMA, Dallas ISD, and various cities, counties, MUDs/LIDs and municipalities. Eric is a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas. He has a Master of Science degree with an emphasis in Structural Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin. Eric is on the Board of Directors of the Houston Chapter of the Structural
Engineering Institute and is a member of ASCE. LJA is an employee-owned, full-service consulting engineering firm serving the public and private sectors in Texas. With offices in Houston, Beaumont, Galveston, The Woodlands, Austin, and San Antonio, the staff of LJA includes over 250 experienced civil, transportation, structural, midstream, rail, and coastal engineers, hydrologists, environmental specialists, land planners, landscape architects, construction managers, designers, GIS specialists, technicians and surveyors.
Congressman Miller appointed to Austin committees In February, Speaker of the House Joe Straus (San Antonio) announced committee assignments for the Texas House of Representatives. State Representative Rick Miller was appointed to Defense and Veterans’ Affairs as well as the Elections Committee. Miller stated, “I am looking forward to serving on these two committees. My background as a 30 year naval aviator and four years serving as Country Chairman in Fort Bend County will serve as excellent resources
and aid me in my new appointments.” The Defense and Veterans’ Affairs committee has jurisdiction over the relations between the State of Texas and the federal government involving defense, emergency preparedness, and veterans issues. The committee also oversees the Texas Veterans Commission, the Veterans’ Land Board, the Texas Military Preparedness Commission, and the Emergency Management Council. The Elections committee has jurisdiction over primary, special and general elections; as
well as revisions, modifications, amendments or changes to the Election Code. Campaign Finance, and the duties and conduct of candidates for public office also fall within its purview. The committee also oversees the Office of the Secretary of State and the Texas Ethics Commission. Representative Miller also plans to stay closely aligned with the Committee on Appropriations, Transportation, and Public Education, which all have a tremendous impact on District 26.
Katy Chamber bestows four distinguished awards Four special awards were recently presented at the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce’s 44th Annual Gala. Ann F. Hodge, Chamber president and CEO, stated that “each of these individuals and companies has made a tremendous contribution to making Katy a wonderful place to live, work and play. We are truly indebted to each of the honorees for this contribution to our community.” Volunteer of the Year -- Chris Crockett, longtime Katy ISD educator and leader of the Katy ISD Education Foundation, an independent 501 (c) (3) corporation where 100 per cent of funds received go directly to Katy ISD teachers and “give teachers the opportunity to think bigger than they’ve ever thought before.”
Business of the Year -- The Adams Law Firm, Tad Adams. Tom and Saundra Adams moved from Houston to Katy in 1976 and both immediately became heavily involved as volunteers in a host of organizations. Tom started his law firm and twice served as the Katy Chamber’s chairman of the board. When Tom died in 1997, his sons, Tad and Will relocated their law practice from Dallas to Katy and have continued the firm’s volunteer services to this community. They have served on a score of Katy organizations including that of Katy Chamber chair. Citizens of the Year -- John and Cindy Zerwas, Richmond residents, married for 35 years and longtime civic leaders. John has served as Texas District 28 State Representative Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
since 2006 for Wharton, Waller and part of Fort Bend counties. John was graduated from University of Houston, received a doctorate in medicine from Baylor University, and is an anesthesiologist. He has served as chief medical officer for the Memorial Hermann Healthcare System. Exceptional Service -Katy Area Economic Development Council. Hodge noted that this award is not given every year. “ This is a special honor that is bestowed on individuals and organizations that meet a certain level of exceptional service to the Katy community,” Hodge said. “We are delighted to recognize the KAEDC…the leadership team and the dedicated men and women of the board of governors.”
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Huggins gift helps Fort Bend Y kick off annual Partner’s campaign
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t the recent kick off of the YMCA’s annual Partners Campaign, the Fort Bend YMCA leadership announced that a pacesetting gift was again pledged by Bo and Amy Huggins. Earlier, Bo Huggins, President/CEO of Houston Distributing, announced that his family would be pledging $50,000 to the campaign for the support of the Y’s outreach programming. The gift marks the tenth year in a row that the Huggins family has made a pacesetting gift to the YMCA’s campaign. Over the last ten years, the Huggins family has donated over a quarter of a million dollars to the Y’s annual campaign. The YMCA Partners Campaign, which officially kicked off January 31st with a goal of raising $350,000, is an effort by the volunteers, supporters and staff of the YMCA to make sure that the non-profit
Ten Years of Y Support! - Pictured From Left To Right: Bo Huggins, Houston Distributing CEO; and Charlie Myer, YMCA Regional Advancement Officer.
mission of the YMCA is achieved. The mission or goal of the YMCA is to strive to provide all of its programs, services and memberships to everyone in the community regardless of their ability to afford it. During the campaign, which runs until March 31st,
dozens of Y volunteers will be soliciting financial support and telling the story of the Y’s efforts to provide their programming for all. “One hundred percent of the donations to the Partners Campaign go directly to program and membership scholarships as well as subsiding YMCA Outreach initiatives”, stated Keith Borgfeldt, 2013 Fort Bend Y Partners Chair. The YMCA is a 501 (c) (3) Non-Profit organization dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. It is expected that over 1,400 low-income youth and families will benefit from this year’s Fort Bend YMCA Partners Campaign funds. For more information on the Fort Bend YMCA or its annual Partners Campaign, go to www.ymcahouston.org . Fort Bend County is home to three YMCAs located in Missouri City, Katy and Richmond.
State legislators, transportation officials discuss the economic benefits I-69 provides Texas
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s Texas continues to lead the nation in job creation, ensuring the state’s infrastructure can withstand the boom in business is critical now more than ever. The Texas Department of Transportation has updated lawmakers on the progress of the Interstate 69 corridor and announced new federal designation of more than 28 miles of existing highway around Houston. Being developed on existing roadways as a critical artery for moving freight, I-69 will ultimately become a 1,600 mile-long highway stretching from Michigan to Texas. “I-69 represents a vital component in our thriving and growing economy, not just in eastern Texas or in South Texas but across the entire state” Gov. Rick Perry said. “The quality of our transportation
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system plays a decisive role when employers consider expanding or relocating here. That’s why we need to continue investing in infrastructure projects like I-69.” “Interstate 69 is important in providing safety, mobility and connectivity between rural and urban Texas” said Commissioner Jeff Austin, Texas Transportation Commission. “The Interstate links three major east- and west-Texas interstates: I-10, I-20 and I-30, and provides a critical national connection as well.” From north to south Texas, communities across the state will see the economic benefits of I-69. The interstate is expected to be a critical artery for moving agricultural, energy and industrial exports through the nation and beyond. It is also expected to attract more businesses to the Lone Star State. “Economic development, commerce, March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
safety and quality of life are all tangible benefits Texans will experience with the development of I-69,” said Phil Wilson, TxDOT executive director. “The I-69 expansion can mean growth for communities in Texas and attract businesses that want to move products in all directions throughout Texas and the nation.” Additionally, due to its proximity to our sea ports, I-69 will serve as a vital artery for exporting Texas products. “Texas’ ports are perfectly positioned to make Texas a global gateway that will keep our economy booming for years to come and the connectivity I-69 provides is critical in making that a reality,” said Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, chair of the Panama Canal Stakeholder Working Group and member of the I-69 Segment Committee.
KOLBE CURTICE... continued on page 19
5) Evaluate Market Alternatives Which buildings currently have suitable space available? 6) Release Your Requirement To The Market To avoid dealing with multiple agents, your broker will act as a single point of contact to uncover all suitable space opportunities. Your real estate broker will also assist in discussions with your existing landlord regarding lease renewal options. 7) Evaluate and Prepare A Short List When analyzing alternative premises, consider timing, financial and other incentives that may be offered. Aim for a short list of three or four properties. 8) Inspect and Evaluate Your Options Your broker will schedule property tours of selected properties. This phase can take several weeks, as repeat tours of selected properties are typically required with IT consultants, equipment and furniture providers, contractors, etc. 9) Do a Financial Analysis There are several ways to compare the
financial aspects of leasing, including: 1. Gross rent per square foot 2. Net effective rent per square foot 3. Total occupancy cost per employee 10) Compare Your Options Using A Lease Analysis Model Compare leasing options on a financial basis, using an “apples to apples” approach. This will take into account lease incentives, such as free rent or a greater allowance for tenant improvements, the total rent over the life of the lease including rent hikes, and the term of the lease including extension provisions. Your broker will assist you with this analysis. 11) Workplace Design and Tenant Improvements When evaluating your property options, don’t forget to consider the intangible costs and benefits for each property option. 12) Frequently Asked Questions How Can I Negotiate The Best Deal? By carefully selecting the right properties on your short list, you can create a competitive environment to achieve the most favorable lease
agreement. This is where it is critical to have a skilled broker who is thoroughly familiar with the market conditions representing you. 13) How Much Space Will I Need? The amount of space you require will vary depending on the nature of your business and the efficient use of space you select. As a rule you will require roughly 120 to 180 square feet of space per employee. A relocation, although an exciting time for a business owner, can also be extremely stressful. The biggest factor that I typically see that leads to stress is owners failing to allocate sufficient time to be able to make informed decisions. By planning ahead and engaging the right professionals to assist, much of that stress can be eliminated. Kolbe M. Curtice CCIM, CLS is a licensed Texas Real Estate Broker and is the Managing Director of Colliers International – Fort Bend, 15999 City Walk, Suite 250, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479. He can be reached at 281-494-4769 or kolbe.curtice@colliers.com.
A Sugar Land Tradition... Renewed
For information on membership options, contact Kelly Buettner in our Sales and Marketing office today! 281.494.9131 x134 • www.sugarcreekcctexas.com 420 Sugar Creek Boulevard Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
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Levies, water, transportation, and growth among topics discussed
County Judge Hebert delivers 2013 State of County address funding. Judge Hebert said a major thoroughfare plan update is due and a study of Fort Bend County’s road systems will be taking place e began with how Fort Bend County’s levies are built this year. above the standard requirements, so “the National “Look for signs to be changing from Hwy 59 to Interstate 69 Flood Insurance Program fight has been won,” in the near future,” said Judge Hebert. The 1,600 mile national said Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert. Jointly highway, Interstate 69 connects Michigan to Texas and in Fort organized by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and the Central Bend, there’s a 28-mile stretch. It will go from “I-610 West to the Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, the annual state of the county address end of the access controlled section of U.S. 59 in Rosenberg, near by Judge Hebert was before a full house at Safari Texas Ranch this SH 529.” This is nicknamed the NAFTA Superhighway intended to past Friday over the noon hour. help trade with Canada and Mexico in accordance with the North The county’s response to federal regulations for operating the levees American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). has involved issues requiring those residing in flood plains or areas With a county budget of $250,277,339 for 2013, Judge Hebert protected by levees to buy mandatory said that for the first time in flood insurance at “arbitrary rates,” four years the 2,272 full time as previously described, or essentially employees will receive a 2.35 be subjected to “a new form of percent first step increase. “The taxation,” irrespective of how flood tax rate continues to hold steady control works in Fort Bend County. at $0.499,” which he said had On water services for the county, been 53.5 percent and even a savvy topic of Judge Hebert upwards of 60 percent in other considering his role as a consultant operating years. The highest state to the water service industry for authorized homestead exemption over 40 years, he announced the of 20 percent remains in place as creation of the West Fort Bend do over 65, disability, veterans and Water Authority that will use the surviving spouse exemptions. North Fort Bend Water Authority On the global scene, Judge as a model. The 2005 legislativelyHebert recently returned from created regional North Fort China and signed a sister Bend Water Authority helps with community agreement with groundwater reduction mandate Chancheng District Foshan Fort Bend County Judge Robert “Bob” Hebert. compliance. With the county’s City. The Fort Bend Boys Choir proactive approach, the county’s cultural exchange and educational west area experiencing rapid population growth is expected to be exchanges with Lamar CISD and UH were announced and a served by the new water authority, which may be authorized for delegation that will come in March. Since hosting delegations in creation during this state legislative session. China is fully paid by the government there, the same is expected “Everyone is concerned about transportation,” and “we can’t and will be the case when the delegations visit here, said Judge afford to just do nothing,” Judge Hebert said when he addressed Hebert. The community agreement signed also initiated an transportation funding. “The state needs $270 billion in the next 25 economic exchange and opportunities with interested companies. years” and current revenue is $100 billion. That’s $170 billion short “2013 looks very good,” said Judge Hebert with the national meaning that $7 billion per year in additional revenue is needed. economy slowly recovering, the pace of local economic growth Back home and funded with county road bonds, a total of $68 increasing, the county tax rate remaining stable, multiple million worth of mobility projects will be underway this year projects being underway to meet continuing growth, and the including the second and third segments of Mason Road, Brand efforts underway to further enhance job growth and economic Lane, the first segment of Golfview Drive, and the second segment development. of West Belfort. For congestion mitigation, intersection funding In the meantime, look for the courthouse restoration to be fully at the Cinco Ranch area is planned with partial mobility bond completed towards year’s end and occupied about a month earlier. By Elsa Maxey
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March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
FORT BEND State of the County Address Friday, February 15 • Safari Texas Ranch • Richmond, Texas
Joe Freudenberger, Eric Junker and Yvonne Compean
Dick Phillips, and Tyler Nelson
Evelyn Martin, Michael Martin, Shanta Kuhl; Mayor Mary Rose Zdunkewicz, City of Weston Lakes, and Mike Roller
Andi Wallis and Amber Stephenson
Susan Sillivan and Claude Leatherwood
Mayor Evalyn Moore, City of Richmond and Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr., City of Rosenberg
Fort Bend County Judge Robert “Bob” Hebert, Pat Hebert; Ann Council and Jeff Council
Matt Ontiveros, Sollie Davis and Eric Edmunds
Nicole Pope, Tony Francis, and Anna Dittemore
Mike O’Connell and Reagan Swinbank
Rick Miller, State Rep. District 26; Jeff Wiley and Ray Aguilar.
Lynne Humphries and Beth Wolf
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EMERGENCY ROOMS AND URGENT CARE Fort Bend County and Katy area has convenient 24-hour emergency locations for your local urgent care needs.
To advertise, please call Barbara J. Carlson Office 281-690-4204 • Cell 281-687-9426 barbara@fortbendbusinessjournal.com
Fort Bend/Katy
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Civil War historian and author to speak on origins of Juneteenth
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n conjunction with the exhibit, “Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War,” which is on display at George Memorial Library from February 23 to April 4, Fort Bend County Libraries will present a special program, “The Generals Behind Juneteenth,” on Sunday, March 24, beginning at 2:00 pm, in the Meeting Room at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. The program is presented by Civil War historian, Edward T. Cotham, Jr., who has written numerous award-winning books and articles on Civil War history, emphasizing battles and skirmishes in Texas. Juneteenth has become one of the most important symbols of the end of the Civil War and the coming of Emancipation, but what do we really know about Edward T. Cotham, Jr. the events that shaped it? On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 from his headquarters in Galveston. Granger’s order confirmed that the Emancipation Proclamation was in effect in Texas. Celebrated today as the origin of the “Juneteenth” festivities, General Granger’s order that day was actually the result of a long chain of political and military events involving the battles and leaders of the Civil War. A former president of the Houston Civil War Roundtable, Cotham is active in the Civil War preservation movement. He is a life member of the Civil War Preservation Trust, and currently serves as president of the Friends of Sabine Pass Battleground. He is also a member of the Company of Military Historians and the Author’s Guild. Cotham has been widely recognized for his efforts to preserve Civil War history. In 2005, he was awarded the Jefferson Davis Historical Gold Medal by the United Daughters of the Confederacy, and he won the Frank C. Vandiver Award of Merit by the Houston Civil War Round Table the following year. His published works include Battle on the Bay: The Civil War Struggle for Galveston (1998) and Sabine Pass: the Confederacy’s Thermopylae (2004), which was awarded the Dan and Marilyn Laney Prize for Civil War Battlefield Preservation. In 2006, he published the bookThe Southern Journey of a Civil War Marine: The Illustrated Note-Book of Henry O. Gusley. The unique nature of this book made it a bestseller and led to an interview on National Public Radio that brought Cotham and his book to the attention of Civil War enthusiasts across the country. He contributed a chapter on “Federal Naval Strategy and Texas” for the book The Seventh Star of the Confederacy: Texas During the Civil War, published in 2009, which won the Fort Worth Civil War Round Table’s A.M. Pate, Jr. Award for excellence in research and writing on the Civil War in the TransMississippi. Cotham currently serves as the president of the Terry Foundation in Houston. He holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Houston, a master’s degree in Economics from the University of Chicago, and a law degree from the University of Texas. Those attending the program are invited to tour the exhibit, which is on display in the Bohachevsky Gallery in the lower level of George Memorial Library. Drawing on recent scholarship, this exhibition encourages a deeper understanding of Lincoln’s life, policies, and accomplishments. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the library’s Public Information Office at 281-341-2677.
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
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uc in g Pa rt
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Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
C on ra d N
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Membership The following firms have realized the importance of economic growth and development for the Fort Bend County area. They have pledged their support to the cause by investing their time and efforts in the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Please support your community by calling on these organizations when you have a need for products and services.
Welcome New Members Aflac - Young
Childrens Lighthouse Learning Center of Sienna
La Madeleine Country French Cafe
Hemal Solanki, Owner 6155 Sienna Ranch Rd Missouri City, TX 77459 281-819-0123 Child Care
Benny Kuo, General Manager 2675 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-494-4401
BBVA Compass
Edward Jones / Harrell
Lynn Krauss, Senior Vice President 24 Greenway Plaza, Suite 1601 Houston, TX 77046 713-560-7771 Banks
Sandra Harrell, Financial Advisor 4501 Cartwright Rd, Ste 501 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-261-2000 Financial Services
Michael Stall, President 77 Sugar Creek Center Blvd, Suite 210 Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-627-1122 Construction Management
Brazos Senior Villas
Harry Patel, President 7322 SW Freeway, Suite 400 Houston, TX 77074 713-541-4777 Financial Services
Jay Harris, President 14140 SW Freeway, Suite 150 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-565-2222 Insurance Agencies
Kn.I.L.E. Center, LLC
Nolan Technology
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
Tammy Young, Agent 1445 North Loop West, Suite 960 Houston, TX 77008 832-689-5864 Financial Services
Jela Henderson, Community Manager 5801 Reading Road Rosenberg, TX 77471 713-955-1155 Apartments
Chaumette PLLC David Chaumette, Attorney at Law 2245 Texas Drive, Suite 300 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-225-7144 46
HPPS, LLC
Betsy de Vega, Owner/Executive Director 245 Gonyo Lane Richmond, TX 77469 281-682-4573 Educators
Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2013
Managed Response, Inc.
Insurance Solutions of Texas
Salata in Sugar Land Town Square Wayne Warnders, Owner 2170 Town Square Place Sugar Land, TX 77479 832-372-6294 Restaurants
Speech Therapy Unlimited Dana Johnson, Owner 11569 Highway 6 South, Suite 205 Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-746-3053
The Gerke Law Firm, PLLC Chad Gerke, Owner 4638 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 200 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-828-0550 Attorney(s) at Law
Ryan Farris, CEO 3410 S Halls Pt Ct Missouri City, TX 77459 281-815-2096 Developers
Thom Polvogt Insurance Group Thom Polvogt, Owner 22214 Highland Knolls Katy, TX 77450 281-395-9400 Financial Services
www.FortBendChamber.com
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
UPCOMING EVENTS
SAVE THE DATE March Education Division
Network Nites
Texans Advocating for Meaningful Students
Frost Bank
March 1, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land
March 21, 2013 • 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm 620 Highway 6, Sugar Land Chamber Young Professionals Division
Governmental Relations
Golf Tournament at Quail Valley Country Club
March 4, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land
March 28, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm 2880 La Quinta Drive, Missouri City
Let Texans Decide with John T. Montford
April Education Division
Governmental Relations Division
Congressman Pete Olson April 1, 2012 • 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land
Update on School Finance Lawsuit April 4, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend ISD Annex 16431 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land
Network Nites
Quail Valley Golf Course
Chamber Young Professionals Division
Bartenders Challenge
April 4, 2013 • 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 2880 La Quinta Dr., Missouri City
April 18, 2013 • 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Post Oak Grill 1550 Lake Pointe Pkwy #500, Sugar Land
May Network Nites
Methodist Breast Center May 23, 2013 • 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 16651 Southwest Fwy #360, Sugar Land
www.FortBendChamber.com
Infrastructure Division
The Fort Bend Infrastructure Summit May 31, 2013 • 8:00 am - 1:00 pm Safar Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464, Richmond
March 2013 • Fort Bend Business Journal
47
We Believe in you. Thanks for Believing in US! 1 Year
First Community Bank - Sugar Creek Tim Stubenrouch 281-242-2255 Constellation Energy Marjorie Kass 713-357-2095 ECP Industries Bill Broyles 281-933-8645 x101 The Arc of Fort Bend County Laura LaVigne 281-494-5959
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
Carpenter & Carpenter, PC Kathy Carpenter 281-565-5900
48
Nothing Bunt Cakes Thu “Twee” Pham 281-491-2253
Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP Derrick Mitchell 713-221-1248
3 years
Fort Bend County District Clerk Annie Rebecca Elliott 281-633-7632 The Urban Foresters Grant Crowell 832-731-6531
9 Years
The Bale Law Firm, PLLC Denise M. Bale 281-295-6000 Fishers of Men Lutheran Church Jerry McNamara 281-242-7711
Milestone Member 10 Years
Texas Direct Auto Jessica DeMarr 281-499-8200
Paradigm Consultants, Inc. Brent Lapsley 713-686-6771
ACHIEVE Fort Bend County Lucia Street 281-565-5295
Terracon Todd Swoboda 713-690-8989
4 Years
Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors Lane Pearson 281-980-5050
Marin Propane Gas, Inc. Pablo Marin 281-499-9755
Minute Maid Fred Arnold 281-302-4678
Dynamic Flow Computers, Inc Sami Halilah 281-565-1118
NMG Medical Planners, Inc. Bassem Nassif 832-668-4527
2 Years
Milestone Member 5 Years
Milestone Member 11 Years
Gee Eye Care Kevin L. Gee 281-778-9912
Princeton Classic Homes / Legend Homes Carly Crawford 281-671-9000
6 Years
Links/Fort Bend County Chapter Jeanette Anderson 281-980-1611
Medifast Weight Control Centers Lisa Jump 281-491-2296 Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse Luis Abrantes 281-277-9292 Barton House MKT Steve Andriko, 281-313-2500
The Curry Cup Namita Asthana 281-242-4186
Premier Custom Travel Christopher Grum 800-304-6789
PCD Management, LLC Wende Lewis-Buckley 281-276-6000
Barrett Health Centers Rick Barrett 281-499-4810
8 Years
Chili’s Bar & Grill Billy Merchant 281-499-0227 March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
Houston Federal Credit Union / Sugar Land Tracy Stabenow 281-243-0560 The Millis Group, Inc. Mark W. Millis 281-343-1400
www.FortBendChamber.com
Jan-Michael Jenkins 281-491-0218 jan@fortbendcc.org
Milestone Member 11 Years The Millis Group, Inc. Mark W. Millis 281-343-1400
Larry Pullen Photography, Inc. Larry Pullen 281-851-3075
12 Years
Houston Community Bank - Fort Bend Claude Leatherwood 281-343-7700
16 Years
20/20 Eye Clinic & Optical Edward Chan 281-277-6100 TeeRoo’s Private Label Beverages Mark Poley 281-242-6444
17 Years
Fort Bend County Susan Lowery 281-341-4430 Windfield Townhomes Yvonne Saenz 281-240-7700
First Community Credit Union Nancy Trennel 281-856-5300
Carlton Staffing Beth Hammond 281-265-8900
13 Years
18 Years
Better Business Bureau Dan Parsons 713-868-9500 City of Rosenberg Jack Hamlett 832-595-3310
14 Years
Parkway Properties Stacy Thurspon 281-242-3700 Eyring, Leavitt and Draney, PLLC Bill Leavitt 281-240-8000 x3 Safari Texas Ranch Allison Wen 281-277-7888
Milestone Member 15 Years FairfieldNodal Industries Inc Debera Fontenot 281-275-7814
www.FortBendChamber.com
Milestone Member 21 Years Stephen De Young, MD Vianne De Young 281-494-1314
21 Years
Bank of Texas - First Colony Frank Yonish,
22 Years
David Taylor Cadillac / Buick / GMC David Taylor, Jr. 713-777-7151
23 Years
Dearborn & Creggs Stewart A. Jacobson 281-277-6400
Julie’s Cakes Julie Clifton 281-261-8229
Milestone Member 25 Years
RE/MAX Southwest Realtors Jennifer Weaver 281-207-5037
27 Years
Tallas Insurance and Financial Services Jeff Tallas 713-271-2000
Houston Landscapes Unlimited
KenWood & Associates, PC Kenneth J. Wood 281-243-2300
31 Years
Tallas Insurance and Financial Services Jeff Tallas 713-271-2000
Will K. Blakemore, PC Will K. Blakemore 281-240-2727
19 Years
32 Years
Fastsigns
Milestone Member 20 Years Hilliard & Associates, PC Mike Hilliard 281-242-2997
Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
For membership information, contact:
Whitley Penn, LLP John M. Null 713-621-1515 x1114
Milestone Member 40 Years CenterPoint Energy Dominic Robinson 281-561-3201
49
Ribbon Cuttings
A PLUS CHEMICAL FREE CLEANING SERVICES, LLC
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
3 Sugar Creek Center Blvd, Suite 147 • Sugar Land, TX 77478 • 832-886-6849
50
I EAT SUGAR LAND 13837-A SW Freeway, Suite 142 • Sugar Land, TX 77478 • 281-382-4570
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
www.FortBendChamber.com
PAPA MURPHY’S TAKE ‘N’ BAKE PIZZA 11609 S Highway 6 • Sugar Land, TX 77498 • 281-494-0747
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
www.FortBendChamber.com
THE SPOT 16305 Kensington Dr., Suite 270 • Sugar Land, TX 77478 • 832-454-0209
www.FortBendChamber.com
Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
51
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
This is your opportunity to enhance your value personally, professionally and as a community stakeholder. This ten-month program consists of monthly sessions and retreats covering a variety of topics.
52
“The Leadership Forum allowed me to gain valuable insight into many different aspects of Fort Bend County. The relationships, networking opportunities & leadership skills I gained were priceless. I highly recommend the program to anyone looking to enhance their careers.” -Himesh Gandhi, Sugar Land City Councilman “In 2012, Classic will graduate itʼs fourth executive from Leadership, and I intend to send at least one employees every year...more if I can spare them! I love this program so much that I am now the primary sponsor. It is a terrific program exemplifying all the best about Fort Bend County and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. If you want to build personal and business relationships that last, while learning about the unique, special place we live, then enroll in Leadership... it works!” -Don Kerstetter, Owner, Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land “It all adds up. Year after year, Fort Bend Leadership Forum provides consistent return on investment for our participants, businesses and our community.” -Christopher Breaux, Principal, Whitley-Penn, L.L.P. As a newcomer to Sugar Land, I was so grateful to find that the Fort Bend Chamber had a leadership program. Having participated in the Class of 2010, the program exceeded my expectations. Besides having a diverse class mix, the speakers were outstanding and I learned more about Fort Bend than anticipated. Now I have a greater base of colleagues to access thanks to the camaraderie of my Leadership class! -Karen Daly, City of Sugar Land, Assistant City Manager
For information please contact David Crowl at 281.491.2497 or David@fortbendcc.org
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
www.FortBendChamber.com
Capital investor in Katy uses his ‘noodle” By Wayne Chandler
I
f Linh J. Austin is a serial entrepreneur, as an impressive resume describes him, Katy Area businesses are going to be thrilled that he and his wife, Beth, have moved to this busy community. After a whirlwind extensive corporate background that started in California, Linh landed in Houston, and after a few short years of strategies and planning efforts for global oil companies, went on his own, and began investing in small businesses in the Greater Houston area. His first business venture in Katy has been their Fusion Noodle House at 27110 Cinco Ranch Blvd., three miles west of the Grand Parkway. The restaurant’s formal grand opening was last February 23, as throngs of visitors enjoyed two hours of free food samples and then were offered a galaxy of Asian cuisine where all the entrees were half price. “This noodle house really was Beth’s idea, and it’s hers to own and manage,” Linh smiled. “She named it, too.” The word fusion has several meanings, including a coming together of various energy forces with heat. Beth thought it was an apt name for the project. As, with all of Linh’s ventures, he spent considerable time researching noodle houses. He entered the kitchen to find out , first hand, how it could work and discovered what it takes to become a winner. They leased space in a small but neat Vista Properties center in the heart of West Cinco. “I couldn’t be happier with our restaurant and the great reception that we’ve received from neighbors,” Linh said. They quietly opened the restaurant two months earlier with limited hours so there could be enough time for training the kitchen and wait staff, testing various food selections, and seeking a perfect consistency before the formal opening. There’ll be daily chef’s specials. Tuesday night kids will eat free. Thursdays will be Kung Fu movie night. Linh, in addition to English, speaks Vietnamese and Arabic, and Beth, born in Tennessee, has become fluent in Vietnamese. Austin, with a truly Texas-style surname, was born in Vietnam to an American father and a Vietnamese mother, and came to America at an early age. After four years
Katy’s new business couple, Linh and Beth Austin.
of prep at the private Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Linh attended the University of California, graduating with a BS degree in mechanical engineering, then earned an MBA degree from the Marshall School of Business, University of Southern California. In 1993, he joined Atlantic Richfield (Arco), later BP. After working for BP in California and London, Linh transferred to Houston as integrity managing director. In his 19 years in the oil industry,
Linh developed an exceptional record in all phases of general management strategy, operations logistics, and marketing and financial management. In Houston, he became active in the Houston Angel Network, a non-profit organization that provides its members a forum to efficiently evaluate promising early age investment opportunities. Linh has since joined an active and accredited group of investors, who share the goal of making informed, collaborative investments. The Katy Area Economic Development Council is delighted to see this young, super smart very focused investor arrive in the Katy area where there are so many early-stage ventures that need “smart capital.” That’s what Linh, who operates under the firm LAB Capital,LLC, brings to a new venture. “I’m interested in seeing if I can help in the EDC’s small business incubator project,” Linh said. The Katy Area EDC will give him every opportunity to help.
FOR LEASE 12603 SOUTHWEST FREEWAY
NEWLY RENOVATED/LOCAL OWNERSHIP • 800-21,000 SF AVAILABLE • $20.00 PSF/YEAR GROSS • GARAGE PARKING • EXCELLENT FREEWAY ACCESS
713.439.5315
jbond@griffinpartners.com www.griffinpartners.com Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
53
DBA (Assumed Names)
Data Beat (+) = More Names
This is a sample of the Assumed Names (DBAs) filed at the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office for January 2013. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.TX.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 473 Assumed Names for month of January. Rojugbokan Ibukunola B (+) Bukky Productions 3910 East Auden Cir 77459
Arana Alberiro Tire Express 19702 Fm 1093 Rd 77407
Lynch Adriana Lynch Business Services 32618 Windsor Terrace 77441
Ballare Michael Ballare Technical Service 15102 Chase Ridge Dr 77489
Krishnan Yesodha Katy Medical Billing Services 6007 Gablestone Ln 77450
Navarro Luis Samples Latinos 2102 Courtshire Ln 77478
Whittington & Associates LLC (+) Dinosaurs Rock 11923 Scottsdale 77477
Navarro Luis Sugar City Productions 2102 Courtshire Ln 77478
Crosswhite Todd Todd’s Management 14435 Summer Garden 77083
Rager Jordan Keel Pining Away Tree Service 4410 Hardwood Glenn 77545
Green Stephanie Morgan Going Green Business Services 1906 Hammerwood 77489
Adeyemi Catherine Unique Nail and Faicial Care 16903 Becketts Oak 77083
Ekibolaji David (+) Vintage Triangle Clothing 8618 Lone Maple Dr 77083
Awan’s Management LLC Raceway #6888 4971 Hwy 6 77459
Taylor Laury Taylor Appraisal Group 6902 Wild Violet Drive 77346
Huynh Michelle Ipsa Nails and Skin Care 4645 Hwy 6 Ste A 77478
Clarke Danita L Comfort Sitters Services 431 Insurance Rd 77469 Kao Mei Jong Mei’s Clips 15315 S W Frwy Ste #145 77478 1100051001/02/2013 Ewumi Hakeem (+) Trends Petrotech Company 24333 Cinco Terrace Drive #525 77494 Razsa LLC Lesar Electric & Data 1918 Maple Lakes Drive 77339 Whitfield Danny K Sr (+) D & M Whitfield Consulting LLC (+) 3415 Stoney Mist Dr 77479
54
Nguyen Kim Lien Tran Souche Nails & Spa 8433 Fm 1464 Step 77407
Sierra-Robinson Obdulia (+) Pdkalr LLC DBA Dealco Auto Sales 301 S 9Th Street Ste 201 77469 Penny James Edward (+) J.E. Penny Communication & Management Group 3123 Tecumseh Ct 77459 Sanders Michael C Michael C Sanders, Attorney at Law 2 Greenway Plaza Suite 225 77046
Rodriguez Ernesto (+) Rosales Lawn Care 423 Center St 77477
Campbell Alexander S & J Quality Grooming 10440 South Dr 77099 Gil Aldolfo Fast Auto Repair 15725 Maiden Ln 77053
Valhalla Enterprises Inc Chadwick Photography 7211 Glen Rosa Dr 77494 Cedars Fine Properties (+) Kowabunga Energy 3527 Pecan Point Drive 77478 Triplett Alicia Luxe Professional Recruiting Services 4023 Greenbriar 77459
C and I Storage Yard LLC Tri-County Towing & Transport 210 Mcintyre Lane 77053
Mchenry Sandra Finely Finished Handmade Jewelry 4210 Fieldview Ct 77545
Vaught Edwin Joseph (+) Vaught Custom Guns 1807 Cypress Dr 77469
Parks Isaiah Vibes & Visions Management 1706 Arcott Ln 77477
Lake Venice Property Owners Association Inc Venetian Estates Property Owners Association 13726 Florence 77498
Neyrick Group R & R Vending Services 10511 Windsor Ln #104 77477 Lowery Sherrill Renewal Fitness by Sherrill 3807 Breaker Court 77459
Jackson Deborah J’monae Event Planning 16718 Hollow Ridge 77053
Greenwood Jattan Bounce City 3026 Blue Lagoon Ct 77459
Hood & Son Holdings, LLC The Grounds Guys Of Katy (+) 2202 Pleasant Shade Ct 77406
Mack Faith A M&M Industrial Control Services 2903 Edgewood Drive 77479
Ama Francisca C (+) Capino Chiropractic X Wellness 301 S 9Th Street Suite #203 77469
Fawibe Wycliff Tayo Pennies For The Needy International Ministry 16707 New Market Ln 77083
H.E.A.T. Holdings LLC Sveglio and Company 4007 Laguna Point Ln 77459
Jones Larry Rosenberg Full Gospel Holy Temple 503 Third Street 77471
Oparemi Temitope Xtrim Beauty 24251 Arrow Star Dr 77493
Simpson Mario J Simpson A/C and Heating Inc 4822 S Meadow Bird Cir 77489
Hamid Sameera (+) Creative Decorations 3210 Cumberland Ct 77459
Lindemann Kevin W Lake Sense 24415 Fm 1462 77461
Hill Heidi M (+) Hm Hill Bookkeeping 2219 Fenton Rock Ln 77494
Vanderbilt Nancy Fancy Paws 7022 Pembrough Ln 77494
Tran Ha Thu (+) Wrc Estate (+) 2207 Tradewinds Dr 77459 Ogundare Marilyn D (+) Grace Medical Transportation Providers 12243 Ashford Valley Dr 77478 Desrosiers Leah Elizabeth Dands Grooming By Leah 7114 Glen Rosa Dr 77494
Majeski Lisa (+) MLE - Corp 1006 Mettler Ct 77469 Braxton Tyson Demond (+) Innovative Home Creations 3239 Dartmouth Field Ln 77545 Burton Chantelle Trinity Realtors Of Texas 1151 Mariner Cove 77498
Pham Thuy Thi Thanh Bid It Win It 09 3618 Ianesborough 77459 TRSG LLC The Stefani Group (+) 27418 Middlesprings Ln 77494-3272 Alexander Africca Nicole A Luscious Hair and Lash Salon 2518 Balsam Ridge Way 77545 Ferozporewalla Hussain H&E Steel (+) 1515 Writfield St 77479
Anderson Christine (+) Uno Realty Inc Stage Ready Profession Srvcs Uno Systems International Po Box 16432 77496 14923 Bennetts Mill Ln 77498 Simmons Beverly J (+) Wright Jeremy Q Simmons & Associates Hospitality Waste 3806 Ave I Ste 18 77471 Management 12110 Ashley Circle East 77071 Yari Maria Maria Yari Salon Moore Louis (+) 13821 Southwest Fwy 77478 Louis and Cida Moore Fitness 918 Rolling Mill Drive 77498 Ubi Nneoma (+) Ubi Incorporated Hatchet Tanisha Po Box 721976 77272 Gun Range Boutique 1934 Herringbone Dr 77489 Martinez Jorge Carlos (+) Taqueria La Morelia Wootton Samuel Clark 1704 Fm 1640 Rd 77469 Quark Consulting 5110 Water Oak Crescent 77441
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
DBA (Assumed Names) O’neal Realty Corp Lamar Rebels 2207 Greenhaven Dr 77479 Johnson Mercy Mercy Health Care Services 11430 Bissonnet #C10 77099 Johnson Mercy Lifetime Insurance Services 11430 Bissonnet #C10 77099 Mclemore Terrence Lone Star Transport 630 Colony Lakes Estates Dr Apt 314 77477 Gilmore Basil A B. A. Gilmore Roofing 10522 Ripplewave Dr 77498 Hamilton Brian Change Ink 3422 Bedford Forrest 77459 Howe Dennis Iron Bird Productions 4426 Ryans Branch Lane 77450 Hearn Gabrielle Sharne Gabbie’s Closet 7042 Rockergate 77489 Jones Mindy L Weak For His Glory 1411 Alderwood Drive 77479 Shad B Hanis Dds Msd Pc Stevenson & Hanis Orthodontics 2830 Commercial Center Blvd Ste 101 77494 Shad B Hanis Dds Msd Pc Stevenson Orthodontics 2830 Commercial Center Blvd Ste 101 77494 Saldana Guadalupe S Divine Scented Oils & Accessories 1110 Front St Ste B 77469 Thompson Stepahie Danielle Appeal Model Management 2111 Nashua Drive 77477 Kubwa Hillary (+) Mg Tax Services 7623 Cook Road 77072 Xiao Eddy Ji (+) Houston Grand Finale Chorale 4211 Maurice Way 77477 Mbalanya Ernest Em Professional Services 20103 Emerald Cliff Ln 77407
Data Beat (+) = More Names
Espinoza Marco A Magical Coffe Experience 31826 Fulshear Creek Trail 77441 Irish Damani (+) Irish Air Cooling & Heating 3027 Doe Run Rd 77489 Chilo John P (+) 1St Choice Pressure Washing Service 21002 Amber Crossing Dr 77406
Hurt Jeanna That’s my Stuff 21531 Maggie Mist Dr 77406
NCS Developments Inc Nerd Computer Solutions 435 Fm 1092 B2a 77477
Lawal Lanrewaju (+) Golden Choice’s 9359 Royal Way 77083
Diaz Otto Houston Home Upgrade 7003 Sierra Night Dr 77407
Seo Dong Kun Navi Accessories 2311 Red Bluff Ct 77494
Olupona Mobolaji Bj’s Physical Therapy Clinic 12523 Rala Ln 77071
Infected Sloths LLC Minuteman Press 6007 Thistle Ridge Blvd 77441
Pettigrew Bradford W H & P Construction and Remodeling, Inc. 5206 Pettigrew Junction 77435
Brent Bayless LLC Bayless Carpentry 1610 Martin Lake Dr 77406
Turner Laquetta S Ell. T’s Event Planning & Coordinating Tennison Markeith Okonkwo Chinedu J (+) 707 Whippoorwill 77489 The Gathering Outreach ComGood Samaritan Transportation munity Center (Non-Profit) (+) 2101 Hayes Rd Brown Timothy C 12240 Murphy Rd 77477 Apt 1506 77077 Brown Sugar’s Barbecue & Catering Ryan-Newman Jacqueline (+) Golden Values LLC (+) 10102 Elder Mill Ln 77498 Fluid Community Based Training Bookkeeping Express 17424 W Grand Parkway Ste 24044 Cinco Village Center Parrett Anetra 371 77479 Blvd Suite 100 77494 Keeping it Kingdom 4221 Liberty Rd 77026 Be House Limited Company Jordan Michael The Be Bookhouse Mikoman Productions I Enterprises 2020 Inc 515 S Fifth St 77469 8419 Bird Meadown Ln 77489 White Belt Chef 6303 Misty Creek 77459 Molinas Melinda (+) Quartey Khalfani (+) Premier Training Triple C Trucking Benson Tammy & Nutrition By Melinda 1807 Vail Ct 77459 Home Sweet Home Child Care 7503 Leecast Ct 77407 1458 Acorn Ct 77489 Prosper Ventures Inc Montgomery Hugh F II Bright Minds Montessori Ishwar Dave Facilities Coordinators 21915 Juniper Wood Ln 77469 Engineering Services Inc P O Box 5234 77491 Ishwar Dave James Derrick I Engineering Services Inc Lares Edgar (+) Top Shelf Jazz 2914 Rimrock Drive 77459 Tramilegales 510 Plantain Ln 77469 24131 Rosalia Ct 77406 Cadle Kenneth Le Lien La’vaga Cartiyaa’ (Cartiyaa’) Patel Ronak Rio Nails & Spa 735 Dulles Ave 407 77477 Tugoti Consulting 4504 Hwy 6 77478 4411 Sophie Court 77479 Schmidt Brooke Lyons Lefranc Babycakes By Brooke Heylmun Jennifer (+) Tops Roofing and Remodeling 3819 Crestwood 77461 Jennifer Marie Photography 3426 Bedford Forrest Ct 5402 Holly Valley Ln 774406 77459 1994 Investment Group (+) Sugar Land Legends (+) Jc Burris & Associates Inc Lopez Norma Leticia Hernandez 2506 Cleburne 77004 Armordvt Solutions Yeray Tires 2914 Avenue I 77471 2710 Rastos Ave 77477 Viewmeister LLC Viewmeister Jc Burris & Associates Inc Parker Steven B 3231 Logancrest Ct 77494 Royal Medical Resources Home Video Editing Services 2914 Avenue I 77471 2707 Turning Row Ln 77459 Lovett Todd D Lovett Trucking Monroy Kimberly Ann (+) Lynn & Marie LLC 3417 Melbourne 77026 Mm Eco Systems A C Security 6830 Kacal Rd 77417 29625 Fm 1093 Ste B 77441 Guzman Nelson Alberto Star 1 Services Stockman Karlyn K Lynn & Marie LLC P O Box 841244 77584 Angel Mio Maternity Global Copy Center 419 Heatherton Hill Dr 77469 29625 Fm 1093 77441 Fabre Valerie A (+) “A Little Something Extra” (+) Ams Ecosystems LLC Harrington Raymond L 3219 Cypress Point Dr 77459 A Mustard Seed Catering Evac-1 17 Dupont Circle 77479 1111 New Tree Ln 77489 NCS Developments Inc Nerds Computer Solutions 435 Fm 1092 B2a 77477 Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
Vangilder David (+) Exco LLC 14019 S W Freeway #301443 77478 Akpkap LLC Nisha’s Salon & Spa 5842 New Territory Blvd 77479 Akpkap LLC Nisha’s Salon & Spa 4888 Hwy 90-A Suite 400 77498 Coppens Bryan Shane BSC Maintenance and Repair 5708 Lilac 77493 Coppens Bryan Shane Landlord Maintenance Services 5708 Lilac 77493 Gupton Michael Ray Goldmine Comics & Cards 719 Presley Way 77479 Fazeli Jake Fazeli Photography 4911 Cadencrest Ct 77494 Amos Troy Truth Community Center 2347 Bermuda Shores 77489 Ables Selena A Gadget Electronics 3642 Rocky Ledge Ln 77494 Ables Selena A Gadget Technologies 3642 Rocky Ledge Ln 77494 Blakely Richard Mobile Auto Solutions 12822 Mula Ln #H 77477 Fonda Regia LLC (+) Fonda Monterrey 4601 Av H Suite #3 77471 Kwan-Wong Connie Natural Purity P O Box 19811 77496 Kwan-Wong Connie Angel Skin Beauty P O Box 19811 77496
55
Data Beat
February 2013 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports
Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary reports present data about monthly local sales and use tax allocation payments to local sales taxing jurisdictions. These net payments represent monies identified for the local jurisdictions since the previous month’s distribution. These reports will allow you to compare current year sales and use tax payments with the previous year. When used with other local economic indicators, they may help indicate present and future trends. County/City Fort Bend
Net Payment This Period
Comp Payment Prior Year
Percent Change
2013 Payments To Date
2012 Payments To Date
Percent Change
Arcola Beasley Fulshear Kendleton Meadows Place Missouri City Needville Orchard Pleak Richmond Rosenberg Simonton Stafford Sugar Land Thompsons
41,642.41 6,714.64 72,180.47 688.14 108,345.94 769,126.10 40,925.58 4,013.17 4,768.26 96,025.98 1,423,767.61 14,146.73 1,438,797.70 5,066,630.69 0.00
29,136.54 7,743.95 65,091.73 1,252.64 107,404.05 678,578.55 35,880.35 4,567.79 6,574.84 404,447.43 1,363,389.32 13,351.34 1,362,826.10 5,168,289.35 4,625.29
42.92% -13.29% 10.89% -45.06% 0.87% 13.34% 14.06% -12.14% -27.47% -76.25% 4.42% 5.95% 5.57% -1.96% -100.00%
82,891.59 16,575.91 127,884.72 1,546.08 188,458.70 1,297,668.35 72,831.46 7,759.26 8,153.24 434,111.47 2,380,560.61 26,496.49 2,688,714.63 8,288,431.08 0.00
51,707.57 14,615.26 100,295.18 1,875.09 191,488.44 1,145,508.81 63,701.74 6,920.35 9,674.89 734,568.19 2,268,603.07 27,844.44 2,525,964.87 8,741,926.47 7,115.80
60.30% 13.41% 27.50% -17.54% -1.58% 13.28% 14.33% 12.12% -15.72% -40.90% 4.93% -4.84% 6.44% -5.18% -100.00%
COUNTY TOTAL 9,087,773.42
9,253,159.27
-1.78%
15,622,083.59
15,891,810.17
-1.69%
Top 20 City Sales and Use Tax Comparison Summary - February 2013 Please note that Sugar Land is 17th in sales tax revenues in the state. City
Houston San Antonio Dallas Austin Fort Worth Arlington El Paso Corpus Christi McAllen Amarillo Round Rock Plano Lubbock Frisco Midland Irving Sugar Land Beaumont Grand Prairie McKinney
56
Net Payment This Period
Comp Payment Prior Year
% Change To Date
2012 Payments To Date
61,454,961.42 26,280,722.08 25,062,547.53 17,523,318.40 12,487,637.34 9,430,906.76 8,503,364.99 7,631,550.48 7,438,677.40 7,407,538.28 6,528,898.68 7,841,240.20 6,593,150.56 6,547,330.73 6,009,611.67 6,169,875.60 5,066,630.69 3,998,480.30 4,382,053.24 4,914,609.75
58,438,361.00 26,994,408.44 24,378,465.29 16,452,389.55 11,935,332.05 9,780,884.30 8,188,535.25 7,537,847.04 7,152,648.32 7,049,323.30 6,850,675.96 8,523,991.60 5,931,275.18 5,549,945.91 5,194,198.86 5,808,835.28 5,168,289.35 4,035,854.93 3,949,887.15 3,588,971.25
5.16% -2.64% 2.80% 6.50% 4.62% -3.57% 3.84% 1.24% 3.99% 5.08% -4.69% -8.00% 11.15% 17.97% 15.69% 6.21% -1.96% -0.92% 10.94% 36.93%
106,337,090.32 44,669,040.45 41,963,977.56 30,069,883.60 20,755,616.18 15,548,858.48 14,551,923.02 13,128,841.22 12,633,714.13 12,578,285.17 12,426,930.24 12,378,748.23 11,040,473.29 10,594,475.19 10,446,131.80 9,510,365.24 8,288,431.08 7,969,329.00 7,643,369.93 7,578,882.09
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
2011 Payments Change
100,237,033.02 43,931,973.70 41,255,553.48 28,140,568.23 20,401,530.95 15,872,610.93 13,942,881.80 12,853,794.97 11,714,972.98 11,847,522.80 12,159,345.96 13,160,667.31 10,032,276.85 9,190,065.71 9,091,377.86 9,217,955.36 8,741,926.47 6,623,102.14 6,875,771.12 6,187,160.24
Percent
6.08% 1.67% 1.71% 6.85% 1.73% -2.03% 4.36% 2.13% 7.84% 6.16% 2.20% -5.94% 10.04% 15.28% 14.90% 3.17% -5.18% 20.32% 11.16% 22.49%
Data Beat
Commercial Building Permits
Some significant building permits in cities in Fort Bend during the month of January ADDRESS
TYPE OF PERMIT
VALUE
OWNER/CONTRACTOR
MISSOURI CITY 4502 Bldg 2 Riverstone Blvd 4502 Bldg 1 Riverstone Blvd 13110 S Gessner Rd 13110 S Gessner Rd 911 Buffalo Run 13443 100 S Gessner Rd 13513 200 S Gessner Rd 8817 Hwy 6 400 10207 S Sam Houston Pkwy 130 7746 Hwy 6 K
Commercial New Commercial New Commercial New Commercial New Commercial New Commercial Lease New Commercial Lease New Commercial Remodel Commercial Building Commercial Building
$200,000 $200,000 $350,000 $250,000 $1,150,000 $550,000 $425,000 $38,000 $111,911 $80,000
Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)
01/01/13-01/31/12
$3,354,911
4133 Bluebonnett 13030 Murphy Rd 2503 South Main 203 Dulles Ave 100 10245 West Airport Blvd 609 Dulles Ave 800 4410 Greenbriar Dr 10101 Mula Rd 335 Staffordshire 4B
Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building
$4,300 $4,055 $24,500 $20,000 $25,000 $10,000 $8,000 $82,500 $3,000
Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)
01/01/13-01/31/12
$182,855
13833 Southwest Fwy 2278 Texas Dr 16605 Southwest Fwy Ste 100 2150 Town Square PL Ste 220 17520 Southwest Fwy 340 State Hwy 6 2245 Texas Dr Level 2 15367 Southwest Fwy 16535 Southwest Fwy PAD 2001 16090 City Walk 12550 Reed Rd Ste 300 12810 Jess Pirtle Blvd 3374 State Hwy 6 2277 Plaza Dr Ste 260 3119 Sweetwater Blvd 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste 750 525 Industrial Blvd 16069 City Walk 16090 City Walk
Commercial Addition Commercial Addition Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial New Commercial New Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel
$321,689 $306,000 $271,000 $58,544 $16,800,000 $511,611 $26,505 $12,000 $752,626 $435,982 $1,038,460 $50,000 $20,000 $59,837 $23,151 $14,188 $35,211 $80,251 $5,000
Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)
01/01/13-01/31/12
$20,822,155
TDK Construction Co. TDK Construction Co. Becknell Services, LLC Corvus Construction Corvus Construction Sienna 1688 LP/D-Elco (General Contractor) MCMET Colony Crossing Limited/Camden Construction Inc. The Centre at Knights Court/Camden Construction Inc.
STAFFORD
Oliden Technology LLC/Enterprise Commercial Paving Whataburger/Ascrete Inc East Wind Christian Academy/Joe Ochoa Roofing Parisian Bakery & Sandwiches/GTNK Construction CertainSource Technology Group LLC/CST Group Zero Degrees/TT Air Compressor Products International/Raco Construction Services Allen H Fogle/Fogle Manufacturing KVVV-15 Studio/Zoya Enterprises
SUGAR LAND Sugar Creek Village, LP/Sundance Construction Co Town Center Lakeside, LTD/D E Harvey Builders, Inc Methodist Hospital/Walgreens Company Town Center Lakeside LTD/O’Donnell/Snider Construction NNP-Telfair, LP/RMC Constuctors Hwy 6 & 90, LTD/Atkinson & Associates Builders Town Center Lakeside, LTD/D E Harvey Builders, Inc Covington First Colony Acquisition/Newhomeprograms.com First Colony Mall, LLC/Level Construction Town Center Lakeside, LTD/Pursuit Builders, Inc Wharton Country Junior College/Burleson Construction Allen Real Estate, LP/Art Star Construction Inc HSMEP William Trace, LP/Pro Rock Granite & Cabinests, Inc Town Center Lakeside LTD/O’Donnell/Snider Construction Ft Bend ISD/Blackmon Mooring Construction LLC First Colony Mall. LLC/AGW Interiors, Inc. Schlumberger/Southern Facility Srv Construction City of Sugar Land/Texana Builders Town Center Lakeside, LTD/All-Cor Services
Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
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There are 11 weeks that kids need things to do with five weekdays to fill each week. We will have a list of 55 things to do in and around Fort Bend County all in one issue. Some day trips, paid activities, no or low cost events and/or day camps that parents can do with their kids each weekday. This fabulous section will be published on Wednesday, April 24th and will be home-delivered with The Fort Bend Star to 48,000 homes throughout Fort Bend County including Sugar Land, Richmond and Missouri City.
What a great place for your ad to be referenced all summer. Delivered: April 24th • Deadline: April 19th
281-690-4200 4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300 Stafford, Texas 77477
www.FortBendStar.com 58
March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
SERVICE DIRECTORY Accounting Terri L Sibbet, CPA 713-234-0618 Office Affordable, Accurate, Timely -Bookkeeping, Payroll, Payroll Tax Returns - Quickbooks, Financials, Sales & Property Tax Returns -Tax Return Preparation. Advertising Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Fort Bend’s ONLY business publication. Fort Bend Focus 281-690-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com Fort Bend’s ONLY feature magazine Direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions. Fort Bend Star 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER Newspaper. Auto Repair / Maintenance Auto Central-Automotive Service & Sales 281-499-9684 www.autocentral.biz david@autocentral.biz. David Fauvelle, 2526 Fifth Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Fax: 281-499-0183, Fast, Friendly and professional automotive repair. ASE Blue Seal Certified, State Inspection Station, Diesel Repair, Open Saturdays 8-3. Charlton’s Auto Body Repair and Vehicle Detailing 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Charbody@aol.com, Fax: 281-499-1694, Complete collision repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert computer color matching. Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service. 79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud!
Colony One Auto Center 281-980-4440 www.colonyoneauto.com Rod Tate, 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-261-0048, Complete state of the art automotive repair & maintenance facility. First Tire & Automotive 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations. 960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified. Ask about our Fleet Service! Banks The State Bank of Texas 281-494-6686 www.tsbot.com nbb@tsbot.com. Nicki Black, 13010 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-494-6747. Locally and independently owned - our prime interest is you! Economic Development The Katy Area Economic Development Council (Katy Area EDC) www.KatyEDC.org 281-396-2200 The Katy Area Economic Development Council (Katy Area EDC) , a 501 (c) 6 non-profit corporation, is a full service economic development corporation representing the Katy ISD area (Katy Area). Katy Area EDC : recruits new businesses, helps retain and expand existing businesses, helps create new businesses, facilitates the construction of business infrastructure and helps improve the quality of place and quality of life of the Katy Area. Country Clubs & Golf Courses Quail Valley Golf Club 281-403-8518 (Direct) 281-403-5910 (Golf Shop) www.golfquailvalley.com Quail Valley Golf Course offers 36 holes of championship golf, a full practice facility, lessons and Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
a fully stocked golf shop. The Missouri City Community Center at Quail Valley Golf Course hosts the Bluebonnet Grille at the 37th Hole, multiple event rooms as well as the 300 seat Magnolia Ballroom. Quail Valley Golf Course and the Missouri City Community Center are the perfect sites for your next meeting or big event. For more information visit www.golfquailvalley. com Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr. is located at Missouri City, TX 77459. Riverbend Country Club 281-269-2526 www.riverbendcountryclub.org triciarbcc@gmail.com. Tricia Hawks, 1214 Dulles Avenue, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, Riverbend Country Club is just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas. Established in 1957, Riverbend continues its tradition as Fort Bend County’s only member owned club. Whether you’re looking for championship golf, fine dining, pools, tennis, fitness facilities or a wide variety of social and golf activities Riverbend is definitely the place to belong. The Houstonian Golf & Country Club 281-494-4245 www.houstoniangolf.com A private golf and country club providing the area’s finest golf course and golf practice facilities along with fitness, pool, tennis, spa and dining amenities. Golf and Club (non-golf) Memberships are currently available. Floral Flowers By Tiffany LLC 281-208-8681 www.FlowersByTiffanyStafford.com 13230 Murphy Road, Suite 400, Stafford, TX 77477. 281-208-8681. 2011 CMUS Power Award Winner – Internet Customer Service Award. Beautiful Flowers for all occasions, Weddings, Events, Funerals, Plants, Fruit & Gourmet Baskets. Member of the Better Business Bureau and Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Mention the Fort Bend Business Journal for a special discount. Continued on page 60
To Advertise Call Barbara J. Carlson at 281-690-4204 59
Golf Carts / Mobility Scooters CBC Golf Cart Services, Inc. 281-494-1164 Scooters by CBC 281-494-3454 www.cbcgolfcarts.com chris1001@windstream.net, 203 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land, TX 77498 (Behind Imperial Sugar). CBC offers Sales, Service, New & Used, Rentals and Parts for two lines of products, GOLF CARTS and MOBILITY SCOOTERS. Authorized Dealer for Fairplay and Pride Mobility products. fax 281-494-1189. Gourmet Food Tastefully Simple Connie Atkinson 281-731-8685 http://www.tastefullysimple.com/web/catkinson2. Everyone’s lives are hectic! Let me show you products that are quick and simple to make - Tastefully Simple! All of our products are either ready to use or you just add one or two ingredients. We offer a wide range of foods that include; Beer Bread,
Soups, Dips, Desserts, Dressings, and much more. Earn FREE products by hosting a party for your friends. Everyone can taste and experience the simplicity and goodness! Tastefully Simple is looking for consultants, full or part time! Earn money by spreading the word about this delicious company. Once it is tasted - It is SOLD! Tastefully Simple is just getting started in Fort Bend County. Become a consultant and get in on a ground floor opportunity. Contact me to book your party or for more information about the business. Connie Atkinson 281-7318685, busybee529@aol.com. Glass Block/Showers/Windows South Texas Glass Block 281-355-8882 www. stglassblock.com We offer complete glass block solutions, providing excellent service and product to all of our customers. We have been in business since 1995, serving the entire Houston and surrounding areas. Our excellent workmanship is unmatched both in the commercial and residential arena. No job is too big for South Texas Glass Block. Home Health Care
SERVICE DIRECTORY
Texas State Healthcare 281-208-4344 www.txstatehealthcare.com What we do: Skilled Nursing - Home Health Aide Physical/Speech/Occupational Therapies - Medical Social Worker assisting with durable medical equipment needs and helping to provide Resources & Services in the Community - Wound Care - Catheter Care - Diabetic Care Lab Services - IV Therapy and more... “Hometown Nurses Helping Hometown People”
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Insurance Agencies
HELP PEOPLE FIND YOUR BUSINESS HERE! 12 MONTHS LISTING FOR ONLY $300
Prince Benefits Group 713-884-8399 www.princebenefitsgroup.com Partner with a strategically uncompromising and experienced insurance agency that specializes in employee benefits. We help you attract the right talent and keep them happy! The jewel in our crown of insurance is group insurance but we offer the complete spectrum of benefits for groups and individuals: health, dental, life, vision, disability, 401k, general liability, property, worker’s compensation, umbrella, commercial auto, COBRA administration, HR compliance, etc. Prince Benefits Group provides your company the leverage it needs to get what it needs. Insurance Solutions of Texas 281-565-2222 • 281-341-5060 www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.com Jay Harris, Auto, Home, Business, Flood Insurance. 14140 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. 281-565-2222, Fax 281-565-3333. 2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-3415060, Fax 281-341-5558. March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
Jewelers The Gold Connection Jewelers 281-344-9900 • We Buy Gold www.goldconnection.net Full service jewelry store. Diamonds, Gold & Silver Jewelry and Watches. Repairs done on the premises. Custom design are our specialty. Front door parking. 206 Hwy 90A, Richmond, Texas 77406. Magazine Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Fort Bend’s ONLY business publication. Reaching over 10,000 businesses monthly. The place to advertise to reach the vital Fort Bend County business community. Fort Bend Focus - 281-690-4242 Pearland Focus - 281-690-4242 Focus on Women - 281-690-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com Fort Bend’s ONLY feature magazine Direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions. Medical Supplies Synicare Medical 281-378-8040 www.synicaremedical.com synicaremedical@yahoo.com. 20333 State Highway 249, Suite 200, Houston, TX 77070, Fax 888-397-1240. Synicare Medical is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs with professionalism and integrity. Synicare Medical specializes in durable medical equipment,medical supplies, and third party billing.We accept all private insurance and strive to meet the needs of every patient in a professional and caring way. Synicare Medical is owned and operated by Synicare Group LLC. Nature’s Pest Control Nature’s Own Pest And Lawn Service 281-656-2847 www.naturesownpestcontrol.org 18035 W. Little York Rd. Ste. F, Katy, TX 77449. Using an exterminator that will practice the safest and most natural techniques for pest control can be reassuring and may be the only consideration for those who are determined to live green in every way. Natural pest control with the best guarantee in the business. At Nature’s Own, we will eradicate your bugs and make your home bug free once again. Don’t lose any sleep over these pesky bugs. Call Nature’s Own today. Mention Fort Bend Business Journal and receive a special discount.
Fort Bend Star 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER Newspaper. Open MRI Upright MRI of Sugar Land 281-494-0505 www.mri911.com CLAUSTROPHOBIC? Upright MRI is the only True OPEN MRI in Sugar Land. We scan patients standing, sitting, or lying down. For the first time, patients can be scanned in weight-bearing postures and in their position of pain. It is ideal for patients who have difficulty lying down due to respiratory or cardiac problems. Mention this ad and receive $25 off your first scan. 2655 Cordes Drive #150, Sugar Land, 77479. Open Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Optometrists Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, F.A.A.O 281-499-2600 www.drwedemeyer.com 6026 Hwy. 6 Missouri City, TX 77459. Therapeutic Optometrist; Visual Perceptual / Binocular Therapy; medical management of eye infections and diseases. The office has a large selection of fashion frames. Pharmacies Ed’s Pharmacy 281-499-4555 Ed Sziy, 3740 Cartwright, Missouri City, TX 77459, Fax: 281-499-7088. Physicians Immunizations & Drug Testing IMU Southwest, The IMUnization Clinic 281-313-7468 www.houstonvaccines.com houstonvaccines@gmail.com. 3727 Greenbriar Dr. Suite 403, Stafford, TX 77477- Vaccines for children and adults for school, fertility, work, immigration, or travel needs. Daytime, Evening, and Saturday hours and no wait appointments available. Vaccine titers and Drug Testing for individuals or corporations. Certified Drug Testing Center & CDC Designated Yellow Fever Provider. We perform oral HIV testing also. Mobile on-site clinics available for churches and corporations.
Printers / Graphics Star Printing 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We professionally design and print flyers, postcards, brochures, magazines, newspapers and catalogs in high-quality digital graphics. Rain Gutters Sugar Land Rain Gutters & Remodeling 713-204-4664 SugarLandRainGutters.com Sales and installation of seamless rain gutters; repairing and cleaning out existing gutters and repairing fascia boards. Free Estimates and a 15 year warranty with all new installations. Also offering Organic Gardens and Landscaping by a degreed horticulturist. (Consulting and design fees apply). Locally owned and operated in Sugar Land, Texas. Real Estate / Residential Colliers International, formerly Curtice Commercial Real Estate 281-494-4769 kcurtice@curticecommercial.com. Kolbe M. Curtice, CCIM, CLS, 15999 City Walk Suite 250, Sugar Land Square located at U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494-3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment & Tenant Representation, 25 yrs exp. in Fort Bend. Riverstone Development Co. 281-499-8700 www.riverstone.com tomw@johnsondev.com. Tom Wilcox, 4855 Riverstone Blvd, Missouri City, Texas 77459, Fax: 281-499-8704, Luxurious waterside living in Fort Bend from $200s to the many millions. Jeanne Gregory, CRS, GRI 281-344-8918 www.jeannegregory.com jeannegregory@earthlink.net. 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Fax: 281-242-6754, Re/Max Southwest. Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation. Jennifer Weaver, ABR, CRS, GRI 281-207-5037 www.jenniferweaver.com RE/MAX Southwest, 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Residential sales and corporate relocation since 1979.
Remodeling / Outdoor Living Living Improvements 281-499-7000 www.living-improvements.com AWARD WINNING - 2010 & 2011 Houston’s BEST “Outdoor Living Space” Living Improvements’ commitment to excellence makes us the perfect fit for your building needs. We have over 200 years cumulative in-house experience in the remodeling and construction industry making us highly skilled, professional and detail oriented striving to exceed our customer’s expectations. We feature outdoor living spaces, custom homes, interior and exterior renovations. Our commitment to excellence is just one of the reasons we have over 5,000 satisfied customers. SERVING FORT BEND & SURROUNDING COUNTIES FOR OVER 35 YEARS. Video Services Star Digital Studios 281-690-4280 www.starvideoproductions.com A full service video production studio providing all phases of video production including professional writing, videography, editing, DVD duplication, distribution; also video deposition services to the legal community. For video needed for a TV commercial, website posting, employee training, promotional DVDs, special presentations, coverage of live events/ trade shows, or corporate videos, give us a call. If you are interested in something you do not see on our website, let us know and we’re ready to accommodate your needs!
SERVICE DIRECTORY
Newspaper
Water Softening and Purification Systems R & S Water Services 281-416-9353 www.rswaterservice.com info@rswaterservice.com R & S Water Service is a Full Service Licensed Water Treatment Company. We offer Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting Water Softeners. We are 30%-50% less expensive than other water softening companies and we offer the best customer service even after the sale! Sales, Service and Installation of Water Softeners, No Salt Conditioners, Reverse Osmosis Systems, Well Water Systems, Ambassador II Chem-Free Iron Filter Systems and Chloramine Removal Systems. We also can test and repair Back Flow devices. For other services or any questions please contact us. 281-416-9353 or info@rswaterservice.com. **List with the BBB. **Licensed members of the TWQA Texas Water Quality Association.
12 MONTHS LISTING CALL BARBARA J. CARLSON AT 281-690-4204 Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
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FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE WHERE TO EAT NOW - The following is a list of exceptional restaurants throughout in Fort Bend County & Katy Area. Prices reflect the average cost of a three-course dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax and tip. $$$$=Very Expensive ($60 & Up). $$$=Expensive ($40-$60). $$=Moderate ($20-$40). $=Inexpensive (Under $20) . FB=Full Bar. WB=Serves Wine & Beer.
Aling’s Hakka Chinese Cuisine Welcome to Sugar Land’s first Hakka Chinese Restaurant! Using family recipes, Chefs Lin Motiwala and Gary Yan present this unique “Chindian” cuisine, a delicious fusion of both Chinese and Indian cookery (without the curry undertones). From savory steamed or pan fried Dumplings to traditional Indianstyle Hakka dishes, as prepared in Bombay/ Pune, like Chicken Lollipop, as well as American Chop Suey, each dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients to bring you a dining experience like no other. Lunch specials start at $6.95 for a 4 course meal. Open Tuesday - Sunday. Lunch: 11am-3pm (TuesFri). Dinner: 5:30pm-10pm (Tues-Thurs & Sun) and 11pm (Fri & Sat). Aling’s is located in the First Colony Commons shopping center at Hwy 59 and Williams Trace Blvd. between Home Depot and Office Depot. 15425 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land. Call 281-2420432. www.alingshakka.com. $$ AURA Restaurant Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest,
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freshest ingredients. A three course prix fixe lunch for $12.95 to Mussles Marinieres, Roasted Red Snapper or Filet Mignon with Cognac Peppercorn Sauce. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for a truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/ or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB BLU Restaurant | Lounge (New Listing) BLU boasts a globally influenced, Euro-Asian menu from acclaimed Executive Chef Junnajet “Jett” Hurapan. With a diverse background that spans cuisine from Thailand to New American and Mediterranean, Chef Jett’s dinner menu offers an extensive array of both small and larger plates perfect for sharing. Looking for a great deal, come enjoy an incredible three-course lunch menu for $12 Tues - Fri, and $4 happy hour menu Tues Sun. BLU recently started a Live Jazz Sunday Brunch from 11am to 3pm! Visit www. blusugarland.com ~ 2248 Texas Drive 281.903.7324. $$ • WB
To Advertise Meet & Eat Food Drink Entertainment Guide March 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal
Candelari’s Pizzeria Albert Candelari began making sausage over 50 years ago. As the years have passed the flavor remains the same, which is why Candelari’s is the “King of Sausages”! They take that delicious Italian sausage and put it in pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches. Enjoy appetizers, salads, pastas, sandwiches, pizzas and desserts in there dining room, large patio, or full bar with large screen TV’s. Happy hour is Monday - Thursday 3 to 7pm. This casual dining experience is available at two locations in Fort Bend. Call either location for take-out or delivery. 7425 Hwy 6 S (Just North of Sienna) 832-947-0440 / 6825 S Fry Rd (Fry & 99) 281-395-6746. www.candelaris.com. $ • FB Fernando’s Latin Cuisine We are pleased to announce the arrival of Fernando’s Latin Cuisine-An exotic culinary adventure! Started by, Fernando Echeverria, the same owner of Los Andes by the Compact Center in Houston-Another wonderful Latin American restaurant. Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is located in the same building where Ruth’s Chris used to be. Featured dishes include Empanadas appetizer, Fileton, (Filet mignon) and Asada Y Camarones, Casually called the surf and turf. 14135 Southwest Freeway, in Sugar Land. 281-494-9087. wwww. fernandosrestaurants.com. $$ • FB
Call Barbara J. Carlson at 281-690-4204 or Barbara@fortbendbusinessjournal.com
Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill Santos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281-240-3060. $ • FB Panda Garden
Las Alamedas Restaurant & Cantina Las Alamedas Restaurant and Bar Continues the long standing tradition of fine Mexican food and beverages that began in 1980, is now relocated in Katy at The La Centerra Center. Join us seven days a week for our warm hospitality and anything from brunch on the weekends to private corporate events and everything in between. We are a total scratch kitchen featuring an extensive selection of authentic dishes. We are family friendly with a great children’s menu. Our patios were voted one of the top two in the Houston area. Please visit our website and like us on Facebook! The only thing missing is you! We are open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and we serve brunch Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 2pm. Our bar and lounge offers full meal service from open to close. Hours of operation are, Monday thru Thursday from 11am to 10pm, Friday from 11am to 11pm, Saturday from 10am to 11pm, Sunday from 10am to 9pm. BAR 11am till closing. 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Suite F-140, Katy, TX 77494. 281-347-3030. Reservations accepted by phone and on line by visiting our web site www.lasalamedas.com. $$ • FB
Panda Garden Restaurant, the three times winner for Best Oriental Restaurant in Fort Bend County, located at 3563 Highway 6 in Kroger Center, provides a warm, casual environment to best service all diners. The goal of our restaurant is to offer 100% satisfactory to the customers with variety selection of popular Hunan Cuisine. “We offer fresh, made from scratch meals that is unforgettably delicious!” Manager Kenny adds. The restaurant offers accommodations for small group meetings and wonderful party tray for catering to the near by businesses and schools. Panda Garden is open 7 days a week on Mon. – Sat.: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun. 11a.m. – 9:30p.m. Delivery is available everyday with a min. of $15.00 purchase. A lunch special is offered daily as well as the full regular menu offerings. 3563 Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace, 281265-0303. $ • WB Post Oak Grill Restaurant & Bar The Rios Family invites you to come and experience the same quality, ambiance and service that you have at the original Post Oak Grill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine prime beef, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - MondayThursday 11:00-10:00pm, Friday 11:0011:00p.m., Saturday 4:00-11pm, Sunday 10:00-9:00pm, & Sunday Brunch 10:002:00pm. Happy Hour 4:00-7:00pm. 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land • Call 281-4912901. www.PostOakGrillSugarland.com $$ • FB Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H March 2013
Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse is the best new steakhouse in Fort Bend. Tradicao, pronounced Tra-dee-son, was named after the Brazilian word for “tradition” and founded on the idea to continue this traditional way of grilling. They are a family owned and operated churracaria whose goal is to make sure your dining experience is one you will never forget. Their prixe fixe menu includes 14 cuts of perfectly grilled meats brought to your table side, a large salad bar and hot sides. Tradicao would like to invite you to come join them, sit back and relax. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Sat Closed, Sun 12-3pm. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9:30pm, Fri 5-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun 5-9pm. Phone: 281-277-9292. 12000 Southest Freeway, Meadows Place, TX, 77477, www. TradicaoSteakhouse.com.
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