Fort Bend Newcomer & Relocation Guide - 2019 Volume 1

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Creating environments that celebrate life.

E R V E D YEA OF

THE

Amazing communities. So many ways to live.

At Johnson Development, we make more than just places to live; we create amazing communities for what you enjoy most. Whether you’re seasoning dinner with herbs from our Harvest Green community garden, walking the lakeside trails in Viridian or splashing at our huge waterparks in Sienna, you’re sure to find that life is special in a Johnson Development community.

Houston • Austin • DFW • Atlanta

|

More top-selling communities than any other developer in America 2014 – 2018

|

JohnsonDevelopment.com

contents | features

19 39 55 80 94

Fort Bend Master-Planned Communities Public, Private & Higher Education in Fort Bend

ON THE COVER Hole # 3 on the recently renovated Trent Course at Sugar Creek Country Club

Senior Housing Options: Assisted Living Communities

Photo Courtesy of Sugar Creek Country Club PHOTOGRAPHY

Houston’s Active Lifestyle & Recreation Activities

We would like to thank the following for their contributions: GHCVB Houston Cross Creek Ranch Riverstone

Fort Bend’s Delicious Dining Scene

George Hosek Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Fort Bend EDC Sugar Land Marriott Town Square Fort Bend Christian Academy Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land Sienna Plantation Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Eric Phol The Smart Financial Centre The City of Meadows Place Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Schlitterbahn Waterpark George Ranch Imperial Sugar Land Houston Astros City of Rosenberg Smart Financial Centre

94

EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions

80

19

to the publication: Joy Oden Cecile Adams

© WEB Media Group LLC 2019 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Houston Newcomer Guide 2019 - ISSUE 1 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.

“Cancer, our mission is to end you” Bob Harris | Cancer Survivor At MD Anderson Cancer Center, we are the only hospital in Houston focused on one thing: ending cancer. This singular purpose is why we are the nation’s leader in cancer care.

From prevention and accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment and innovative clinical trials, our cancer experts are giving patients like Bob Harris every chance for the best possible outcome.

Choose MD Anderson first. Call 713-745-9940 or visit FindYourMDAnderson.com.

Ranked one of the top cancer centers in the nation for 29 years

by U.S. News & World Report.

Multiple Locations Across Houston

contents | sections WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY • 12

12

14 Fort Bend Accommodations

19 Master-Planned Communities

Derek Wright

CEO

PRESIDENT Kevin Evans

28 Rent or Buy?

VICE PRESIDENT

32 Mortgage Options

Robert Nusbaum CREATIVE DIRECTOR

EDUCATION IN FORT BEND • 38

Erin Hayden Seal

39 Public Schools

OPERATIONS MANAGER

42 Private Schools

Cecile Adams

48 Higher Education

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Jill Roe

ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 52

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

55 Senior Housing Options

Paul Yarbrough

56 Assisted Living Communities

Candi Thomas

Kelly Gajewski

RELOCATION INFORMATION • 58

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón

59 Moving Companies

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newcomer & Relocation Guide

61 Service & Utilities

58

www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

33 Cost of Living

38

Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 18 HOME FRONT • 26

18

Phone: 713-952-1916

is published and distributed

64 International Relocation

bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC For advertising information,

66 Places of Worship

please call 713-952-1916.

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 68

Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate

69 Major Medical Facilities

as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors,

BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 74

94

omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication.

75 A rea Chamber of Commerce

WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury,

76 Major Employers List

or inconvenience sustained by anyone

78 Houston by the Numbers

using this publication.

LEISURE + RECREATION • 80 300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395

82 Attractions & Family Fun

Austin Texas 78752

89 Sports & Golf

Phone: 512-266-2900

94 Dining Scene

4

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

www.TexasRelocationGuides.com

– ISSUE 1

WELCOME from the

GREATER FORT BEND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL A Vibrant and Growing Economy Welcome to Fort Bend County! If you don’t know by now, you have just moved to one of the best communities in the nation. In today’s world of uncertainty, fiscal irresponsibility, increased cost of living, and shaky economic outlook, Fort Bend County is an oasis of stability. Our county and cities are fiscally sound, our tax rates are low and stable, our housing market is among the best in the nation, our low crime rates are the envy of most other areas, and our economic climate is the best it has ever been.

We are blessed to live in a state that understands the foundation of economic growth is an attractive business climate and fiscal responsibility. We are fortunate to live in the greater Houston region, where free enterprise and building successful companies is a way of life. And I am here to tell you that we live in a county that recognizes the best path for our future growth is one based on attracting jobs and capital, keeping our doors open to businesses, and helping them thrive.

One Fluor Daniel Drive Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.fortbendcounty.org www.fortbendcounty.com Phone: 281-242-0000 Fax: 866-500-5668

There is also a strong commitment to attracting and supporting the development of amenity-rich, master planned communities. Fort Bend County has six of the top twenty selling master planned communities in the nation and master planned communities are the foundation that attracts the brightest and best workforce, making Fort Bend the best in the region for high school graduation rates and an educated adult population.

Finally, we recognize that the success we have built is open to all. That is why the 2010 U.S. Census found that Fort Bend County is the second fastest-growing county in the state of Texas and the 14th fastest growing county in the nation.

Our success today comes from the recognition during the 1980’s oil bust that a community can only thrive with a vibrant and growing economic base. That lesson lives on today in the consistent approach utilized by our community leaders to shape our direction. I pray that the rest of the country can learn from the example provided by our county, region, and state. Until that happens, be thankful you live in Fort Bend County, Greater Houston’s finest address.

Welcome to Fort Bend County. Welcome home!

JEFF WILEY President/CEO Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council

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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

COMPREHENSIVE

SERVICES FOR WOMEN, CLOSE TO HOME.

Women’s services from the routine to the complex, right here in Sugar Land.

Every woman is different, with different needs. That’s why Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital offers a wide scope of women’s services, spanning routine OB/GYN services, pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum care, as well as menopause, and breast, bone and pelvic health. Should you need specialty care, a high-risk pregnancy center, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Breast Care and more are all on one campus. So turn to us for care that’s as comprehensive as it is compassionate.

Our care doesn’t end there: We have the only dedicated children’s ER in Fort Bend County.

Learn more at memorialhermann.org/SLwomen or call our Women’s Services Nurse Navigator at 281.725.5733

WELCOME from the

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Success is Just Around the Bend FORT

BEND

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

®

445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: 281-491-0800 Fax: 281-491-0112 www.FortBendChamber.com

Keri Curtis Schmidt 281-491-0216 keri@fortbendcc.org

The secret to success is just around the Bend…Fort Bend. With a population of over 800,000 covering 885 square miles, Fort Bend County is home to 20 cities and villages; each with its own unique flavor and outstanding characteristics. A recent study published by Rice University identifies Fort Bend County as one of the fastest-growing counties in America and as the single most diverse county in the United States and possibly the world.

Our local business climate is flourishing from the ground up. At the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to partner in this success ensuring that Fort Bend is the foremost location for economic development and business prosperity. In 2014, the United States Chamber of Commerce awarded the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation for our sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. Only 1.5% of the over 7,000 chambers in the nation have achieved this top designation.

For over 40 years, the Fort Bend Chamber has diligently fulfilled our mission to serve as the advocate for business excellence in Fort Bend County. We create, enhance and promote the thriving economic environment in which we work and live. Whether it is through our Education, Infrastructure, Governmental Relations, Community Resources, Business and Professional Development, or Healthcare Divisions, we bring value to our members. Our Chamber Young Professionals Division will ensure that the Chamber is delivering value to the future leaders of Fort Bend County.

As the voice for business in Fort Bend County, the Chamber strives to understand and inform our members of the important legislative issues affecting our county. Key to this effort is building and maintaining strong relationships with our local, state and federal elected officials.

The Fort Bend Chamber is your chamber of connections. You can meet leaders and influencers in the County and have access to a multitude of opportunities to build your business, further your career, stay up to date on community and industry news and form meaningful professional and social connections.

The Fort Bend Chamber is a catalyst between business and community for achievement.

Graduates of our esteemed Fort Bend Leadership Forum program are serving in leadership positions throughout our community. Additionally, our Leadership Excellence for Nonprofits is a complementary program that builds organizational effectiveness within our philanthropic community.

The Fort Bend Chamber invests in the youth served by the seven school districts within the county by providing high school students the unique opportunity to experience how both volunteerism and philanthropy serve the community in our Youth in Philanthropy program. Fort Bend Volunteers provides a county-wide calendar of events and a place for our community to serve.

By becoming a member of the Fort Bend chamber, this is a just a snapshot of what you have access to, all right here in one of America’s most dynamic and fastest growing counties, where success is just around the Bend.

KERI SCHMIDT, CCE, IOM President | CEO Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

8

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

WELCOME from

City of Fulshear 30603 FM 1093, Fulshear, TX 77441

THE CITIES OF FORT BEND Dear Fort Bend Newcomers,

City of Katy 901 Avenue C, Katy, Texas 77493

Our cities have so much to offer: sound infrastructure and reliable city services, employment opportunities and job growth, some of the best housing values in the nation, excellent healthcare with award winning hospitals close to home, and outstanding schools, colleges and universities. The solid foundation that our cities have strived to build secures a quality lifestyle for residents today and in the future.

The culturally diverse citizens of the county share in the many benefits our cities provide.

Beautiful parks and recreation areas, wonderful museums, libraries and public centers, and a network of fine service organizations enhance everyday life. Our vibrant small cities also offer theatres, sporting events, musical entertainment, great dining, and more.

Businesses here have a can-do attitude that reflects our pioneer heritage. With relatively low tax bases, incentives from the public and private sector, and a well-educated workforce, major corporations and entrepreneurs alike are discovering even more reasons to do business in our cities.

While growth here is substantial, the small-town environment of our cities prevails. The communities across the county embrace the spirit of friendship and camaraderie that has forged strong alliances between neighbors. Texas is a great state and Fort Bend County is among one of the finest places to live – no matter which city you chose! Welcome to your new home and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you personally.

Sincerely,

10

Aaron Groff, Mayor City of Fulshear

Evalyn W. Moore, Mayor City of Richmond

Chuck Brawner, Mayor City of Katy

William T. Benton, Mayor City of Rosenberg

Charles Jessup, Mayor City of Meadows Place

Leonard Scarcella, Mayor City of Stafford

Yolanda Ford, Mayor City of Missouri City

Joe R. Zimmerman City of Sugar Land

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

WELCOME to

FORT BEND COUNTY Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in Fort Bend County and take advantage of what the community has to offer.

Welcome to Houston, Texas — one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, incredible cuisine, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation destinations.

As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll no doubt notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.

HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax: 713- 961-4869

BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax: 281-486-7530

MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760 Fax: 936-273-0344

The Houston real estate market has been among the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle — for those buying or renting. The more than 39,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR.com) help make the American Dream come true for individuals and families every day. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization, and our members appreciate that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make.

More than a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which actually showcases property listings for the entire state of Texas. Our site offers user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more.

Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more.

On behalf of HAR, it’s my distinct pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you take advantage of everything our incredible community has to offer.

Sincerely,

FORT BEND 6680 Greatwood Pkwy.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557

Shannon Cobb Evans 2019 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS®/HAR.com

welcome culture shopping & entertainment transportation

12

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Photos courtesy of Fort Bend EDC

in this section

to e m o c l e W

FORT BEND COUNTY A diverse, white-collar population surrounded by museums, performing arts centers, pro sports and a Tier 1 public university.

Historic buildings transformed into bustling urban centers with shops, hotels and chef-driven restaurants. New townhomes and brownstones artfully mixed with traditional homes. Fortune 500 companies housed in gleaming buildings designed by big-name architects make up Fort Bend County

Are we talking about Central Houston, or

Named for a modest wood fort built on

almost equal division between the nation’s

the core of any other big city? Nope. This is

a bend in the Brazos River, Fort Bend has

major ethnic communities – Asian, African

Fort Bend County, located less than 30-miles

become a regional and national dynamo

American, Latino and Anglo. “Fort Bend

southwest of Downtown Houston, and even

that’s grabbing accolades and superlatives

County is the new America,” said Houston

closer to major employment hubs including

for its forward-looking vision and quality

political strategist Mustafa Tameez in a New

the

of life. Site Selection magazine describes

York Times article on the county’s diversity.

Uptown/Galleria

area,

the

Texas

Medical Center and Greenway Plaza.

Founded in 1837, Fort Bend is approaching its second century with unbounded optimism and a population rapidly approaching the 800,000 mark, putting it among Texas’ top 10 most populous counties.

Fort Bend as “the crown jewel of suburban Houston,” but the county’s appeal extends

Fort Bend is booming, ranking as one of

far beyond the Gulf Coast region.

the fastest-growing counties in the U.S., according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Fort

Rice University sociologist Stephen Kline-

Bend consistently ranks among the top

berg calls Fort Bend the most ethnically

3 percent of U.S. counties in key demographic

diverse county in the United States, with an

measures such as education, household

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

13

WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY

FORT BEND

ACCOMODATIONS The Fort Bend area is full of many comfortable and notable hotels to accommodate travelers in the area. Below is a list of members of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce that are ready to be the prerequisites to any newcomers move to the area.

HOTEL

CITY

PHONE

Best Western Sugar Land Inn

Sugar Land

281-232-0680

Courtyard by Marriott

Stafford

281-491-7700

Courtyard by Marriott Sugar Land/Fluor Central

Sugar Land

281-494-0556

Drury Inn & Suites - Sugar Land

Sugar Land

281-277-9700

income and employment. Sugar Land, the county’s largest city, was named one of the nation’s top small cities for families by NerdWallet, which analyzed data using several metrics for “family friendliness.”

“We set out to become a world-class county, and now the word has come to us,” said Jeffrey Wiley, president and chief executive officer of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council. Major companies that have recently announced expansions in Fort Bend include Texas Instruments, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, Nalco Champion and Fluor Enterprises.

Fort Bend County is already a total community where residents can live, work and play. The next phase of Fort Bend’s vision is to become a destination for visitors while continually enhancing the quality of life for its residents. With major new arts and recreation projects already in progress, Fort Bend is ready to make its vision a reality within the next few years.

CULTURE Hampton Inn / Stafford

Stafford

281-565-0559

Hampton Inn & Suites / Missouri City

Missouri City

281-208-7901

Hilton Garden Inn Houston/ Sugar Land

Sugar Land

281-491-7777

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Missouri City

Missouri City

281-969-8650

Home 2 Suites by Hilton

Stafford

346-309-2240

Hyatt Place Houston / Sugar Land

Sugar Land

281- 491-0300

La Quinta Inn & Suites Stafford / Sugar Land

Stafford

281- 240-2300

Residence Inn by Marriott

Stafford

281- 277-0770

Staybridge Suites

Stafford

281- 302-6535

Sugar Land Marriott Town Square & Conference Center

Sugar Land

281- 275-8400

14

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

Fort Bend’s cultural renaissance began in 2009, with the opening of the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land.

One of the county’s historic treasures, the Central State Farm building, was repurposed from its previous life as a prison dormitory into a gleaming new museum that hosts permanent exhibits, traveling shows and special events.

SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, a project of the Children’s Museum of Houston, opened in 2016 in the historic Imperial Sugar Factory, the focal point of the visionary Imperial Sugar Land redevelopment project. Located on the ground floor of the factory’s former container warehouse, the 10,000-square-foot museum will have 6 major exhibits and an outdoor play space.

The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation museum opened their doors in January 2018 on the second floor of the same building.

The 12,600-square-foot space includes several exhibits detailing different chapters

of regional history, along with a rooftop

Photo Courtesy of City of Meadows Place; Monarch Butterfly Festival

space for outdoor events.

Fort Bend is making huge strides in creating and enhancing parklands for its residents, thanks to a recent bond issue overwhelmingly approved by voters. Projects include the 67-acre Brazos River Park, located off I-69, near the University of Houston. The park is adjacent to a 52-acre festival site that will host music festivals, cultural celebrations and other big events.

Fort Bend entered the world of professional sports when the Sugar Land Skeeters minor league baseball team played its first game at Constellation Field in 2012. The Skeeters became the first new independent baseball team in the Houston region since the Houston Buffalos played their final season in 1961. With a capacity up to 9,500, Constellation Field also hosts concerts and other sports events.

Fort Bend is home to Brazos Bend State Park,

a

5,000-acre

gem

located

just

40-miles from downtown Houston. This popular park offers biking, fishing, hiking, birding and camping. It’s perhaps best known for stargazing at the George Observatory, a satellite of the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

state-of-the-art indoor performance venue. At U.S. 59 South and University Boulevard, this $84 million project will position Sugar Land as a destination location for culture and entertainment, with flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate from 3,000 to 6,400 guests.

Opened in early 2017, the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land is the area’s first

Fort Bend County has its own distinct downtown, Sugar Land Town Square,

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

15

WELCOME TO FORT BEND COUNTY

EDUCATION Education is a major reason for the broadbased appeal of Fort Bend County. Its largest school district, the Fort Bend Independent School District, is the seventh largest in Texas and is a regional leader in high school graduation rates. Fort Bend ISD rank among the best in Houston, according to Niche.com, a review website. Niche gave Fort Bend ISD an “A” grade for academics and an “A+” for student culture and diversity in its latest report.

Fort Bend also boasts higher education.

The University of Houston, a Tier 1 research university on a par with Texas

Photo Courtesy of City of Meadows Place, Sunset at the Park

A&M and the University of

Texas,

recently designated its growing Sugar

Fort Bend County W

ST

IN

Simonton

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59

RICHMOND 1640

529

762

2759

2218

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SUGAR LAND

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2977

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2234

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Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

BRAZOS BEND STATE PARK

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1994

Guy

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36

Woodrow

1462

Retail Sales.........................$8,234,641,375

16

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Prop. Value.......................$71,605,229,555

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723

69

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FT. BEND PARKWAY

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Technology there.

Weston Lakes

1489

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relocate a large segment of its College of

158'

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Area (sq.mi.)......................................885.3

at its Sugar Land campus, and also to

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Population......................................741,237

Land campus as an official branch of

pedestrian-friendly town center today offers national brand stores and unique boutiques, buzzworthy restaurants, office buildings, a hotel and a 1.4-acre plaza that hosts year round events such as the popular Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair.

UP

visible from U.S. 59 South. Envisioned nearly 20-years ago, the 32-acre development has become a focal point of community pride and has provided a “Main Street” where residents can work, live, shop and gather. This

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Damon

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Fort Bend County © Texas Almanac

8 MILES

TRANSPORTATION Mobility is another priority for Fort Bend, where $250 million has been earmarked for major transportation projects over the next 10 years. In all, 35 significant mobility projects are under way, including five major highway projects. These include an extension of the popular Westpark Tollway, west from its current terminus at the Grand Parkway, and a westward expansion of FM 1093, greatly improving access to the booming Fulshear area west of Katy.

Fort Bend is also benefitting from the upgrading of U.S. Highway 59 South, also known as the Southwest Freeway, into an official interstate highway. To be known as I-69, the newly designated interstate will become a major trade route

residents now enjoy an express route to The Woodlands, Montgomery County and other destinations.

Fort Bend also has its own airport, Sugar Land Regional Airport, which continues to grow and modernize as a general aviation and corporate airport.

Healthcare is yet another strength for Fort Bend, where Sugar Land’s Memorial Hermann Hospital recently earned the Texas Award for Performance Excellence by the Quality Texas Foundation. The first Houston area hospital to earn this honor, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land recently completed a $93 million expansion. Houston Methodist Sugar Land and St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital also add to the area’s healthcare excellence.

for commerce between the United States Mexico and Canada.

With the completion of the Grand Parkway from U.S. 59 South in Fort Bend County, all the way north and east to U.S. 59 North,

With its winning quality of life, it’s no surprise that Fort Bend County boasts more nationally top-selling masterplanned communities than any other area in the Houston region. In fact, Fort Bend

Photo Courtesy of Riverstone

has more new-home sales in MPCs than any other place in the country.

Despite the fact that its last sugar cane crop was harvested in 1928, Fort Bend County still gives off a distinctly sweet aroma – a fragrance of “Home Sweet Home” that persuades thousands of newcomers to put down roots here each year. 

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

17

in this section

City of Rosenberg, Photo Courtesy by Lorenzo Lerma

master-planned communities cities neighborhoods

18

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

HOUSING &

NEIGHBORHOODS Along with large-scale communities, newcomers will also find everything from established smaller neighborhoods to exclusive gated enclaves. The variety is just one more aspect of Fort Bend’s dazzling diversity.

Following are brief introductions to some of the most significant neighborhoods, communities and municipalities in Fort

Ranch Hill, a 40-foot incline affectionately

residents. In addition, the association

dubbed as Mt. Fulshear, is a popular place

is currently updating the recreational

for residents to walk their dogs, fly kites,

amenities. FCCA is located at 4350

Bend County.

enjoy picnics or simply relax. One of its

Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479.

most unique amenities is the Italian Maid Café, offering everything from Lasagna

HARVEST GREEN

Bolognese to Chicken Aioli for dine-in or

One of the newest and most innovative

takeout. Located at the crossroads of FM

master-planned communities in Fort Bend

1463 and FM 1093, just west of the Grand

County, Harvest Green is a 1,300-acre devel-

Parkway and Westpark Tollway, Cross

opment with more than 30-acres of lakes and

The master plan for this community was

Creek Ranch is served by the award-win-

waterways, 280-acres of greenbelts and open

designed with two priorities – to enhance

ning Katy and Lamar Consolidated school

space, and 50-acres of parks. Harvest Green

the lifestyles of its residents, and to be

districts. www.crosscreekranch.com

also offers a network of walkable trails and

MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES CROSS CREEK RANCH

eco-friendly in the process. The results are

a central roundabout designed to enhance

evident in Flewellen Creek Park, a 150-acre

FIRST COLONY

connections between friends and neighbors.

park that winds through the heart of Cross

First Colony, one of the early residential

Located on the banks of historic Oyster

Creek Ranch, providing a habitat for birds

developments, has grown to more than

Creek, Harvest Bend is part of the highly

and wildlife while also connecting the

60 neighborhoods and over 400 commer-

regarded Fort Bend Independent School

entire community. Covering nearly 50-acres,

cial

District. As the first “Agri-hood” in the

Polishing Pond is a beautiful nature habitat

Community

set

Houston area, Harvest Green has an onsite

and water quality basin that’s almost the

innovative guidelines for the community

farm, offering residents the opportunity to

size of 48 football fields. More amenities

and maintains beautifully landscaped

join a community supported agriculture

include the Adventure Island Water Park,

streets, lakes and parks. FCCA keeps

program and receive fresh produce each

miles of hike and bike trails, Arbor Park,

the sense of community strong through

week. Each new home in Harvest Green will

and a spacious fitness center. Cross Creek

monthly newsletters and events for the

also include a ready-to-backyard garden, and

businesses.

The

Association

First

Colony

(FCCA)

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

19

HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

a lifestyle director will create resident-only

The development will also include an A

KINGDOM HEIGHTS

culinary

dinners

luxury hotel on site, office space and luxury

Kingdom

with guest chefs, wine dinners, gardening

apartments. New-home offerings at Impe-

uniquely designed to provide “lakefront”

classes and much more. Ultimately, Harvest

rial Sugar Land include townhomes, patio

and “park side” living to homeowners at

Green will include up to 2,000 homes.

homes, brownstones and executive homes,

an affordable price in Rosenberg. Kingdom

www.harvestgreentexas.com

at prices from the high $400s to over $800

Heights is a 572-acre master planned

www.imperialsugarland.com

community with 12 lakes and 39 parks

classes,

farm-to-table

IMPERIAL SUGAR LAND Imperial Sugar Land is a mixed-use redevelopment of the famous Imperial Sugar Company site, which processed sugar there for more than 160-years and was the oldest continuously operated business in Texas.

Located just 18 miles southwest of Houston, Imperial Sugar Land is a 651-acre community that consists of the 165-acre Imperial tract and the 525-acre Texas General Land Office tract. The iconic Char House and other structures in the factory are being developed into what will be a thriving complex of museums, shops and restaurants.

Imperial Sugar Land is also a community of tree-lined streets, lakes, parks and trails. The popular Alamo Drafthouse dine-in movie theater opened a nine-screen theater in the Imperial Market retail center this past year.

20

Heights

was

carefully

and

being developed on 150-acres, water and

JORDAN RANCH

green space will separate this community

One of the newest communities from

from any other in Fort Bend County. The

Johnson Development, Jordan Ranch is

community includes a large recreation

located in Fort Bend County – one mile

center with a resort style pool and fitness

from I-10 West and with convenient access

center. Excellent Lamar CISD schools;

to the Grand Parkway, which now extends

Foster High School and Briscoe Junior

all the way from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59

High are right down the road. Kingdom

North. Planned for 2,800 homes, this 1,350-

Heights is just minutes from Sugar Land

acre community is also planned to include a

Towne Centre, the Stafford Civic Center,

swimming pool, pocket parks, and hike and

Fort Bend Theatre and an array of local

bike trails. Near the Energy Corridor, Jordan

shopping, dining, entertainment and recre-

Ranch is part of the highly regarded Lamar

ation opportunities. New-home offerings

Consolidated Independent School District,

in Kingdom Heights start from the $200’s

New homes are offered by six leading

from three quality builders. Section 4 of the

homebuilders, including David Weekley,

community opened Fall 2017. Kingdom

Highland, Newmark, Perry, Plantation and

Heights development plan will eventually

Westin. www.jordanranchtexas.com

have 1,430 home sites.

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 >

L IVE ON A LAKE OR PARK Kingdom Heights is a premier master planned community with 150 acres of parks and lakes. The community was carefully designed to be unique in Fort Bend County and offer affordable living with outstanding amenities.

Most home sites in Kingdom Heights are built on a lake or park. This provides comfortable space throughout the community with room for families to grow and play.

Walking throughout the community will lead you to several parks and large lakes for fishing from the shore or canoe.

Amenities in Kingdom Heights are extraordinary for an affordable location. The large Recreation Center has a full kitchen and a large area for hosting parties indoor or on the patio by the pool. The Fitness Center is a fully

equipped gym for residents with a convenient look out to a playground for the kids. Other amenities include a resort style pool, sport fields and more!

If you are looking for value and want to live in a unique, family friendly Fort Bend County Master Planned Community, Kingdom Heights is without equal. Follow Kingdom Heights on Facebook to keep up with their latest events and happenings.

ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION

HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

QUAIL VALLEY Nestled among mature trees and quiet streets,

Sawmill Lake Club in Sienna, Photo Courtesy of Sienna by Johnson Development

Quail Valley offers the best of both worlds: proximity to downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center, along with expansive green spaces where residents can enjoy golf, tennis, and fitness activities within the subdivision. Built in the early 1970’s as Fort Bend County’s first master planned community, Quail Valley Fund is proud of its continuing commitment to maintaining the quality of life that residents have come to expect and enjoy. The Quail Valley Fund works closely with local government officials to ensure the community’s continued positive growth and

SIENNA PLANTATION

True to its name, Veranda will encourage

public safety. Some results of this partnership

Sienna Plantation is a comprehensive 10,800-

its

are evident in the many awards and recogni-

acre

located

rate inviting verandas and other timeless

tions that have been bestowed on Missouri

between two acclaimed cities – Missouri City

details into new homes. “We want this

City, including being listed as one of the “50

and Sugar Land. One of the top-selling commu-

community to reflect the rich heritage of

safest cities in the U.S.” by Congressional

nities in Fort Bend County, Sienna Plantation

Quarterly, and being named among the “Best

offers new homes by more than 16 leading

Places to Live in America” by Money maga-

builders, with styles including patio homes,

zine. Look at available homes and view the

single-family homes and luxury custom homes.

Top 10 reasons to live in Quail Valley at their

The lifestyle includes Club Sienna, a 12-acre

website, www.quailvalleyfund.org

recreation complex that’s home to the largest

master-planned

community

water adventure park in the South, with 200 feet

RIVERSTONE One of the top-selling communities in Houston, in Texas and the nation, Riverstone is a 3,700-acre community planned for 6,000 homes and approximately 18,000 residents at completion. New homes are priced from the $300s to over $1 million and include townhomes, patio homes, traditional singlefamily homes and luxurious custom homes.

Resort-quality amenities include the signature 17-acre Club at Riverstone, 200-acres of lakes, and another 500-acres dedicated to open spaces and recreation. Riverstone has three pool complexes, including the newest pool at The Club, offering twisting water slides, spray elements, a zero-entry lagoon and a splash pad. Riverstone is located in the heart of Fort Bend County, with addresses in Sugar Land and Missouri City.

Schools are part of the highly regarded Fort Bend ISD, and Riverstone also offers convenient nearby shopping at First Colony Mall, Sugar Land Town Square and many more. www.riverstone.com

22

of twisting slides, three diving boards, a junior Olympic pool and a zero-entry lagoon. Sienna

leading

homebuilders

to

incorpo-

Richmond, both visually and figuratively,” Trey Reichert, Veranda’s general manager.

Planned for up to 2,500 homes, Veranda will be Johnson Development’s seventh Fort Bend community. Amenities are planned to include miles of trails, streams and lakes. Schools are part of the highly regarded Lamar CISD. For more information, visit www.verandatexas.com

Plantation also offers 34 parks, miles of trails, and the 18-hole Sienna Plantation Golf Club.

Camp Sienna is a 160-acre sports park along the Brazos River Corridor, with fields for baseball, soccer, volleyball and basketball, plus 1.5 miles of trails. An active community, Sienna Planta-

CITIES THE CITY OF MEADOWS PLACE Only one square mile in size, the City of

tion has more than 40 annual events and more

Meadows Place is perfectly situated between

than 200 fitness classes every month. Schools

Sugar Land, Stafford and Houston. U. S.

are part of the highly rated Fort Bend ISD.

Highway 59 is the main artery and connects

Traditional single-family homes, low-main-

with Dairy Ashford, Kirkwood, Airport

tenance patio homes and luxury custom

Boulevard and other major thoroughfares,

homes are priced from the high $200s to over

making it easy to reach The Galleria, Down-

$1 million. www.siennaplantation.com

town Houston, the Texas Medical Center and other destinations. Incorporated in

VERANDA

1983, Meadows Place has its own dedicated

Home contruction has begun in Veranda, the newest Houston area community from Johnson Development Corp. Located near U.S. 59 South and Williams Way Boulevard, this 590-acre community is named for The Veranda Hotel, a Richmond boarding house opened in 1837 by Jane Long, considered to be the “Mother of Texas.”

police department, with no municipal utility

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

district taxes or homeowners association fees. Zoning ordinances, deed restrictions and commercial property regulations are strictly enforced, maintaining the residential quality of the neighborhoods. In Fort Bend ISD, the city has one of the youngest populations in Fort Bend County, a rising per

capita income level, and an active social life.

settled in the late 1800s. The Lamar Consol-

highly regarded schools and its educated

www.cityofmeadowsplace.org

idated Independent School District serves

and affluent population. Some of the biggest

Fulshear and Simonton, while the Brazos

retail and entertainment complexes in the

Independent School District operates an

Houston region are located in the Katy

elementary school in Orchard.

area, including Katy Mills Mall, home to

FULSHEAR, SIMONTON, AND ORCHARD

more than 200 premium outlet stores, and

Fulshear, Simonton and Orchard are lovely rural towns in the northwest part of Fort

KATY

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, offering dozens

Bend County, with a network of farm-to-

One of the fastest-growing and most desir-

of shops, restaurants, salons and cafes in a

market roads connecting them to I-10 West

able suburbs in the Houston area, Katy is

pedestrian friendly Main Street atmosphere.

and nearby communities including Katy.

located where Fort Bend County, Harris

The University of Houston and Houston

Fulshear was incorporated in 1977 and

County

Community College both have campuses in

remains a largely rural area, though it is now

The Katy Freeway (I-10 West), the Grand

home to some of the region’s fastest-growing

Parkway and the Westpark Tollway link

master-planned

including

Katy to the nearby Energy Corridor and

MISSOURI CITY

Johnson Development’s Cross Creek Ranch.

all of Houston. From historic homes and

Home to large and popular master-planned

Approximately 9,000 people call Fulshear

shops in Old Town Katy, to new homes

communities including Riverstone and

home, and the community continues to

and upscale restaurants in some of the

Sienna Plantation, Missouri City has a rich

grow at a rapid pace. Fulshear is served by

nation’s largest and most popular master-

history that dates back to 1853, when Texas

both Lamar CISD and Katy ISD. With less

planned communities, Katy has it all. The

first railroad began operating and two real

than 1,000 residents, Simonton is located

actual City of Katy has a population of

estate investors purchased four square miles

14 miles from Richmond and maintains a

about 18,282, but the overall Katy area is

of land directly on its route. They advertised

country atmosphere that harkens back to

home to approximately 180,000 people and

their new development as a “land of genial

its founding days in the 1850s. Orchard has

growing fast. Katy receives a steady stream

sunshine and eternal summer” in newspa-

less than 500 residents. Like Simonton, it is

of accolades from national publications

pers in St. Louis, hoping that its name of

also a farm and ranch community that was

and groups for its high quality of life, its

Missouri City would attract new residents.

communities,

and

Waller

County

converge.

Katy. www.cityofkaty.com

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23

HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

ROSENBERG With more than 4,500 new home starts since 2013 and an in-city population quickly approaching 40,000, Rosenberg is one of Houston’s hottest and most desirable suburbs. The more than 16,000 new residents who have made Rosenberg home since 2000 come from all walks of life but are all seeking the same quality of life components: affordable, high-quality housing, terrific shopping and dining options and a business friendly environment in which to start, expand or relocate a business.

The cultural balance between Brazos Town Photo Courtesy of City of Rosenberg, Photo by Lorenzo Lerma

Center and the Historic Downtown District respectively offers residents and visitors the opportunity to shop, dine or even live in a

Fast-forward to recent times, and Missouri

the “Old Three Hundred,” the first settlers

City has earned kudos from CNN/Money

to receive land grants in Stephen F. Austin’s

Magazine and USA Today as one of “Amer-

original colony. The seat of Fort Bend

ica’s best places to live” and as one of

County, Richmond is infused with history,

“Texas safest cities.” Quail Valley was the

from the George Park Historical Ranch to a

first master-planned community in Missouri

thriving downtown filled with historic build-

City and also one of the first in the Houston

ings and significant landmarks.

region, with its well-manicured appearance

Today, more than 14,000 citizens reside in

Quail Valley Fund. Missouri City is linked

Richmond, enjoying a high quality of life

to Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical

less than an hour from downtown Houston

Center and other destinations by U.S. 59

and other major destinations via the West-

toll roads. Schools are part of the highly regarded Fort Bend Independent School District. www.missouricitytx.gov

step back into time with historic buildings, an authentic soda fountain, the renowned Rosenberg Railroad Museum and the world’s only Black Cowboy Museum. The Historic Downtown District is the first and only state-designated Cultural Arts District in Fort Bend County. It is also a

and quality of life maintained today by the

South and a growing network of efficient

cutting edge, mixed-use development or to

designated Main Street Program, which conducts annual arts festivals each spring and fall and Rosenberg Christmas Nights each December.

park Tollway, Grand Parkway, U.S. 59 South

But it’s certainly not all about history in

and other major thoroughfares.

Rosenberg. The future is brighter than

Richmond is home to some of the most successful and established master-planned

NEEDVILLE, FAIRCHILD, BEASLEY, KENDLETON, AND THOMPSONS

communities

The rural towns of Needville, Fairchild,

include Long Meadow Farms and Sweet-

Beasley, Kendleton and Thompsons are located

grass – the latter designed for residents ages

in the southern portion of Fort Bend County.

55 and up.

in

the

Houston

region,

including Pecan Grove Plantation, opened in 1977. Newer and still-active communities

Many of the homes in and around these small

ever.

Lamar

Consolidated

Independent

School District is one of the fastest-growing districts in the state, adding new campuses almost every school year. Texas State Technical College opened a Rosenberg campus and offers an array of high-tech courses, including Cyber Security and Advanced Robotics.

For nature lovers, Seabourne Creek Nature

towns are situated on acreage or outside of

Richmond also has four public parks for

Park offers miles of walking, running

traditional neighborhoods. A network of creeks

community activities, including popular

and biking trails, fishing at Seabourne

and several small lakes are scattered through

George Park. The city is served by the highly

Lake

this area, creating recreational opportunities for

regarded Fort Bend and Lamar school

maintained by the Texas Mater Natural-

those who enjoy water sports.

districts. The area also offers outstanding

ists. Seabourne Creek Sports Complex

parochial and private schools, with higher

boasts

RICHMOND

education offered by Wharton County

fields and is in the process of expanding

Richmond was founded in 1837 along a

Junior College and Texas State Technical

by adding two new Babe Ruth fields.

bend in the Brazos River by members of

College. www.richmondtx.gov

www.rosenbergtx.gov.

24

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

and

a

natural

state-of-the-art

wetlands

Little

pond

League

STAFFORD

immaculately maintained, First Colony

a major draw for families with children,

Situated in Fort Bend County along U.S. Highway 59 South and U.S. Highway 90-A, Stafford has been described as “Shangri-La for property owners” by the Wall Street Journal because it has no property taxes for homeowners. A microcosm of Fort Bend’s overall diversity, Stafford boasts a comfortable racial and cultural diversity. It is the only city in Texas to operate its own school district, the Stafford Municipal School District, and only children living in the city are zoned to the district’s schools. For adult education and other certifications and degrees, the Houston Community College Applied Technology Center and the Houston Community College Stafford Campus are excellent choices. Residents enjoy 35-acres of green space and six city parks. Stafford also has an active civic life with regular Town Hall meetings, a spring clean-up day and holiday events.

has been joined by newer communities

and now the University of Houston at

including Telfair and Imperial Sugar

Sugar Land is a full branch of the Tier 1

Land. The 32-acre Sugar Land Town

flagship campus. Sugar Land continually

Square development created a new down-

improves its quality of life with ongoing

town and sense of place for Sugar Land,

development of new attractions including

and has become an extremely popular

Constellation Field, home of the Sugar

place for residents to shop, dine and enjoy

Land Skeeters minor league baseball

events and attractions. Fort Bend ISD

team, and new parks and cultural venues.

and Lamar Consolidated ISD have been

www.sugarlandtx.gov 

www.cityofstafford.com

SUGAR LAND Founded as a sugar plantation in the mid 1800s and incorporated in 1959, Sugar Land is located in Fort Bend County, 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston.

Sugar Land is a full-service municipality providing police and fire protection, a regional airport, parks and recreation, public works and other services. More than 70 percent of Sugar Land’s land is devoted to residential use – hardly a surprise since Sugar Land is home to some of the nation’s biggest and most successful

master-planned

communi-

ties. Sugar Land receives a steady stream of accolades for its quality of life and appeal as a hometown, regularly landing on national reports such as CNN/Money’s “Best Places to Live” list. Sugar Land has also accumulated numerous prestigious state and local awards for clean air, a tree and forestry program, and their regional airport. One of the earliest largescale developments in Sugar Land and the Houston region was First Colony, a 10,000-acre community that set new high standards for quality development. Still

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

25

in this section temporary lodging rent or buy choosing a realtor mortgage options cost of living

26

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

The

HOME FRONT In Fort Bend, almost every housing budget can be accommodated. Single-family home buyers can choose eco-friendly designs, new homes in master-planned neighborhoods, luxury residences in gated communities or resale homes in established districts.

The rapid growth of Fort Bend County

condominiums, townhouses and lofts avail-

number of extended-stay hotels in the area.

means newcomers can find everything they

able for lease or sale. Begin your search for

When staying in a hotel for 30-days or

need for a smooth move – from abundant

the right home at the Real Estate section of

longer, Texas law allows for an exemption

temporary and permanent housing choices,

www.houstonnewcomerguides.com

of the 6 percent state hotel tax; see the hotel

to skilled realtors and custom builders who

visiting | www.har.com.

or

by

are eager to help.

management for information on how to apply for this exemption.

TEMPORARY LODGING Houston is a city of options; you can live

Sometimes, newcomers need temporary

Consider the location and style of accom-

close to your work, surrounded by nature, in

housing while they continue their home

modation that would best suit you during

a vibrant community, near exciting amenities,

search, or while they wait for their new

temporary housing. Is proximity to work the

or any combination of these. In addition to

home to be built or renovated. Like most big

top consideration during this hectic period?

choice, you’ll find bargains and with today’s

cities, Houston has many options for tempo-

Or it might be most important to stay near

low interest rates, now might be a good time

rary housing. This is especially true for Fort

an airport if you’ll be doing a lot of traveling

to buy a house in Fort Bend, where almost

Bend County, which is highly experienced

during the transition. Would you be most

every housing budget can be accommo-

at welcoming newcomers as one of the fast-

comfortable in a hotel or apartment, or would

dated. Single-family home buyers can choose

est-growing counties in Texas and the nation.

you prefer a single-family home or townhome?

planned neighborhoods, luxury residences in

Many multifamily complexes have corpo-

Good

gated communities or resale homes in estab-

rate programs with fully furnished units

housing include your company’s human

lished districts. You may want to consider

and short-term leases available. Hotels

resources department, your Realtor and/or

leasing as well, and there are a range of

are another option, including the growing

builder, and the Internet.

eco-friendly designs, new homes in mastersources

for

locating

temporary

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

27

Choosing a Realtor

Bottom line: Fort Bend County newcomers

The right realtor can save you thousands.

options throughout the area – from extend-

will find plenty of temporary housing ed-stay hotels and corporate lodging, to

Buying or selling a house involves real estate law, title insurance policies, home warranties, home-lending practices, appraisals, inspections, hazard insurance, surveys and other issues; the services of a realtor are highly recommended. Especially for people new to the area, a realtor can save time and money and provide local knowledge. A realtor can swiftly locate homes that fit with your lifestyle, price range, educational needs, and location.

single-family homes and condos for rent.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT REALTOR?

make more sense if you have a career or life-

First, understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® cannot discriminate against someone based on race, religion, gender, handicap, family status or national origin.

Talk to a number of realtors before making your decision, talk to some of their previous clients and review their current and recent listings. You might want to ask the following:

RENT OR BUY? There can be advantages to both renting and buying a new home, depending on one’s immediate priorities and long-term goals.

According to Freddie Mac, renting can style that requires you to move frequently; if you prefer a set monthly budget and cannot afford unforeseen home-maintenance expenses and if you don’t have the time or desire for home maintenance.

More reasons to rent: if you enjoy having amenities such as a pool, gym, concierge and tennis courts; if you plan on downsizing your living space or retiring soon; and if you are experiencing a financial setback and/or rebuilding your credit.

• How long have you worked in real estate?

• Is real estate your full-time job?

• Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers?

mentation for your assets; if you can afford at

• Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood?

least a 5 percent down payment and closing

• What is the average price of properties that you close?

• How many closings do you have each year?

• Do you work on a team?

It may also be better to buy if you want to

• D o you have any designations, cer tifications, awards or special training?

breaks and credits; if you have an adequate

Freddie Mac says buying may be best if you have reliable income, good credit and docu-

costs; and if you are financially able to take on home maintenance and improvements.

build equity and qualify for homeowner tax cash reserve to withstand loss of employment or another financial setback; and if you plan

SPECIALTY CERTIFICATIONS Realtors with the CBR (Certified Buyer Representative) are exclusively committed to providing excellent buyer representation and know current real-estate practices. Realtors can also be certified as Texas Affordable Housing Specialists, which recognizes training in green technologies that can make a home more affordable.

Realtors certified by Earth Advantage are trained to spot and understand the advantages of green construction. An EcoBroker designation means a realtor has extensive training in conservation and green energy.

on staying in your home at least four years.

NEW HOME VS. EXISTING HOME Advantages of buying a new home include “new” everything – from carpets to appliances.

Energy efficiency is another big consideration.

New homes can include the latest high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, along with advanced insulation and window products that weren’t available 10 or 20 years ago.

Your realtor should be someone who is an expert on the area and the industry. But she should also be easy to work with and willing to listen – the process should be enjoyable as well as productive.

28

F O R T B E N D C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E N E W C O M E R G U I D E 2 0 1 9 –– I SI SSSUUEE 11

A new home will require less maintenance in the short term, and new homes

tend to retain their value because of new buyers entering the market.

“In all, Houston’s economic diversity and health will continue to protect and preserve home values over the long haul, and it will continue to be a great place to live, work and raise a family,” says Houston real estate expert and blogger Toni Nelson.

Fort Bend County offers a great deal of value within the greater Houston region.

Highly regarded schools, vast parks and a thriving economy add further value to home choices that range from townhomes to estate homes, both newly built are wired and capable of accommodating

extremely knowledgeable and experienced

the latest technologies.

in building custom homes in the region.

There are also advantages to buying an

The benefits of building a custom home

existing home, especially in Fort Bend

are getting exactly what you want – from

County, home to well-tended neighbor-

the location of the lot, to the design of the

hoods that have been established for

exterior style and interior floor plan. Many

decades, along with homes that are just a

buyers have extended multigenerational

few years old. According to Realtor.com,

families or adult children living at home,

other advantages may include price, estab-

and garage apartments and ground floor

lished landscaping, “extra” features such as

“casitas” (small houses) are popular options

window coverings that may not be included

for accommodating these family members.

and existing.

In addition, the lending climate may be easier for first-time buyers. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered

mortgage

corporations,

recently

relaxed lending guidelines that were tightened after the national housing in 2008.

Now, some buyers can get a mortgage

in new homes, and traditional floor plans.

Inside, too, a custom home allows you to Used homes may also have a track record

customize every aspect of every room – from

of appreciation over the years, although

countertops and flooring, to paint colors and

Realtor.com cautions that past performance

lighting and plumbing fixtures. And if you

does not guarantee future market appeal.

want to create a special place to incorporate

CUSTOM HOME BUILDING One of the great things about Fort Bend is

Rev. Marty Vershel, Pastor

an architectural element that’s a family trea-

• Traditional and Contemporary Worship

sure or recent discovery, that’s very easy to

• Sunday School for All Ages

do when custom building.

• Service and Ministry by:

the diversity of communities and homesites

Youth, Children, Women, Men, Seniors

home of your dreams. The choices are almost

READY TO BUY YOUR HOME? WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

endless. You can find a waterfront or golf

People are buying houses in Houston; in

• Day School

course homesite in a large master-planned

fact, the Houston Association of Realtors

community or small enclave neighborhood.

recently reported that home sales were up

• Mission and Community Outreach Opportunities

Many custom home communities have gated

by 3.5% for single-family homes from the

entrances and private streets, and some are

same time last year. And the median home

associated with country clubs. There are also

price increased to $229,900 (according to

communities where you can find oversized

HAR.com) because of a strong showing

and acreage homesites.

of luxury home sales. However, Houston

to choose from for building the new custom

still ranks as one of the most affordable Also in Fort Bend, you’ll find a wide selec-

big cities in the United States for home-

tion of homebuilders and Realtors who are

ownership, and is a place where homes

• Choirs/Music

3900 Lexington Boulevard at Murphy Road

281-499-3502 www.fumcmc.org HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

29

LOT FINANCING AVAILABLE! CALL TERRY CROCKETT 832-344-2036

Sonya Simmons, Danny Curtis, Gayle Bowen, Stephanie Sykes and Kristin Cady

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AC R E AGE E STATE S The allure of Fulbrook is undeniable. This wonderfully wooded acreage community is the ideal spot for your rural retreat - convenient to the city life but nestled in nature.

The trusted luxury custom homebuilders of Fulbrook Acreage Estates will help you design your own sanctuary to suit your family’s unique needs and desires.

Fulbrook Estate owners get to enjoy an amazing tax rate of just 1.96% and there are no MUD taxes. The natural oxbow lakes are perfect for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. More than 200 sprawling acres are dedicated to the picturesque open spaces.

Living in nature is spectacular but for those who are excited about a little entertainment once in a while,

they can find live performances at the gazebo or host a family outing in the pavilion.

Building a dream estate in Fulbrook allows the residents the opportunity to enjoy the small town charm of the Fulshear Community where new public schools, numerous private schools as well as the prestigious Katy Medical Center is truly something special. It is home to amazing golf courses, fun filled community events as well as holiday festivals. A variety of retail stores and restaurants including the famous Dozier’s BBQ beckon residents to the delightful town center and newly opened Pier 36.

Come see for yourself why Fulbrook Acreage Estates located in the up and coming town of Fulshear is the perfect place to raise your family.

Katy

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Fulshear

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FM 1093 FM

Westheimer

Westpark Tollway

9 35

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THE GAYLE BOWEN RE/MAX TEAM SERVING THE FULSHEAR & KATY AREA SPECIALIZING IN COUNTRY HOMES AND ACREAGE For the last three decades, Gayle Bowen has been a pillar of professionalism in the Houston area real estate community. As business grew, Gayle wanted to expand and developed the Gayle Bowen Team. Sales agent, Sonya Simmons, came to the team with expertise in new home construction as the result of assisting 7 top production builders in several area communities. Danny Curtis, brings both passion and a deep sense of responsibility as a Fulshear/Katy area realtor and is familiar with every development in his territory. With a passion for real estate he retired from Texas Instruments and pursued his goal of becoming a realtor.

Stephanie Sykes is a 4th generation Houstonian and has expertise in the Greater Houston Metroplex. With a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas State University, she entered Fort Bend ISD as an elementary educator and understands the importance of a

strong school system when it comes to buying a house. Kristin Cady joined the Gayle Bowen Team in 2005 with a 10 year mortgage lending background, and has been a Katy resident for 40 years. Kristin oversees all administrative issues for the Gayle Bowen Team. The Gayle Bowen Team recently made the Top 20 Realtor Team of RE/MAX of Texas, and Top Realtor Team List featured in the Katy Times’ 2018 Best of Katy Edition. As a prestigious member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame and Chairman’s Club, the Gayle Bowen Team delivers uncompromising service to both buyers and sellers. The Gayle Bowen Team consistently places in the top echelon of Texas realtor teams by building Client confidence in their market expertise and collaborative network of personal contacts. As certified Luxury Specialists, the Gayle Bowen Team delivers the dream, one client at a time.

REMAX CINCO RANCH CELL: 713-822-4539 OFFICE: 281-646-2127 | Gayle@FulbrookHomes.com 2877 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy, Texas 77494

500

TOP

REMAX of TEXAS 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY HOME FRONT

with only a 3 percent down payment and a minimum FICO credit score of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are also offered by various government agencies. Some groups, including teachers, police officers and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs.

HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD? Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to home ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that Houston area residents typically spend about 30 percent of their incomes on housing, so the city overall is right in line with that advice, albeit slightly on the high side.

CREDIT REPORTS Lenders need your credit report, which is an analysis of your credit history over the last seven-to-ten years. Called the FICO score, it includes your employment history, your payment activity, the amount you owe, the amount of available credit you’re using, the length of the history, any new credit and other factors. You will be scored anywhere between 301 and 850, with anything over 740 considered an excellent score. Higher scores lead to better loans and lower

Experts also suggest that household expenses not exceed 43 percent of personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insurance, credit card balances, utilities, food and health care as well as any payments on outstanding loans and leases are expenses, while household income includes salary and other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of townhomes, condos and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be considered in the overall expenses.

rates. There are three credit reporting agencies and you

Developed by the Real Estate Center

may contact them to obtain your credit history.

at Texas A&M University, the Texas

FREE CREDIT REPORTS You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies once every 12 months. You can request all three reports at once, or space them out throughout the year.

Housing

Affordability

Index

(THAI)

refers to the ability of a median-income

TRANSUNION® 1-877-322-8228 www.transunion.com

EQUIFAX® 1-800-685-1111 www.equifax.com

EXPERIAN

family

to

purchase

a

median-priced

house in an area, reflecting the capacity of that family to qualify for a mortgage, using standard financing terms. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that the median household income is just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the median-priced home; a ratio of less than 1.0 suggests that the family cannot afford the house.

®

1-888-397-3742 www. Experian.com

MORTGAGE OPTIONS Several different types of mortgages are common today. A standard 30-year fixed rate mortgage is the most common way to

32

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

finance a home; 15-year fixed rate mort-

payment. Escrow money for taxes and insur-

loans, a down payment of 20 percent of

gages are another option. The 40-year

ance is added to the payments according to

the purchase price is required to avoid

mortgage has become more popular in

the terms of the lender, and the amounts are

paying

some parts of the country where home

recalculated annually.

(PMI), although it is possible to take out a

Private

Mortgage

Insurance

secondary loan to avoid PMI.

prices are rising fast, but many experts agree that the tradeoff of a slightly lower

The Alternative Mortgage Instrument

monthly payment for much more interest

(AMI) is a loan in which at least one of

INTEREST RATES

paid over the life of the loan does not

the four components varies. The most

Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary

make economic sense.

common AMI is the Adjustable Rate

from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year

Mortgage with a variable interest rate.

fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different

For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the

Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins

from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate

mortgage, payment, the interest rate and

low and periodically adjusts either up or

mortgages reset according to the terms of

the term of the loan are fixed and fully

down within limits based on a pre-spec-

the lender. Interest rates are expected to

self-amortizing, which means at the end of

ified index. The initial low rate, and

continue to remain near historic lows.

the term, the principal has been repaid.

therefore, the lower monthly payment,

The purchase price less the down payment

enables the buyer to meet the income and

CLOSING COSTS

debt-ratio requirement.

Typically, between 2 to 5 percent of the

is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing

purchase price of a home, closing costs include

the principal by the number of payments in

DOWN PAYMENT

related fees such as costs for running credit

a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding

The down payment is the cash committed

reports, loan origination, appraisal, survey, title

the interest determines the monthly house

toward the purchase of a home. For most

insurance, and discount points paid to lower

COST OF LIVING When it comes to overall cost of living, Houston is still an affordable place to live and work. Here’s how the Houston area ranked in a comparison to other major U.S. cities (based on Q2 2018) CITY

COMPOSITE 100%

GROCERY 13.47%

HOUSING 28.15%

UTILITIES 9.90%

Atlanta

100.5

102.2

101.4

86.6

100.2

108.3

102.1

Austin

98.5

88.2

101.8

94.6

90.2

101.2

102.8

Boston

147.4

106.8

211.2

122.8

112.7

135.7

129.2

Chicago

123.8

107.9

157.2

92.4

126.7

101.5

114.1

Cleveland

99.4

112.4

86.4

100.0

100.7

100.6

104.1

Dallas/Fort Worth

104.3

102.8

106.8

106.2

98.1

102.7

104.2

Denver

111.9

97.6

136.3

85.3

102.7

104.5

108.6

Houston

97.5

86.5

102.4

110.3

98.9

92.1

94.5

NYC - Manhattan

242.4

141.8

514.1

117.1

127.9

115.3

143.8

Phoenix

96.8

97.7

94.9

108.4

95.5

97.5

94.8

Pittsburgh

99.1

109.9

92.7

106.2

106.7

92.3

97.0

Raleigh

93.8

99.5

85.1

92.6

99.3

99.6

96.9

San Francisco

194.7

128.6

363.4

125.1

133.9

126.1

128.7

Seattle

151.9

127.0

207.5

112.8

134.4

122.8

136.1

Tuscon

93.9

102.1

79.3

99.0

97.8

99.8

99.3

TRANSPORTATION

8.99%

HEALTHCARE 4.57%

MISC. 34.925%

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

33

FORT BEND COUNTY HOME FRONT

Selecting an insurance company and determining coverage is the responsibility of the buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract to purchase a house is accepted by the seller. The Texas Board of Insurance (www.tdi.texas.gov) is a valuable source of information.

In some fast-transitioning West Houston neighborhoods, the value of the lot may represent a much larger-than-average share of overall property value, and it may be a good idea to talk with several insurance companies – especially those who specialize in the area – to make sure you are getting ample coverage and the best rate.

Many companies offer discounts when home insurance is combined with auto coverage, life insurance, health insurance and other the interest rate. Closing costs are usually paid

different accounts, minimum balance require-

by the buyer at the time of closing.

types of insurance that may be required. In

ments, ATM charges, availability of funds

the Houston and surrounding areas, flood

policy, direct deposit and other options.

insurance is required or recommended by

PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION

Contact the Texas Department of Banking toll

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage

free 877-276-5554 or visit www.dob.texas.gov.

is beneficial because it gives sellers a

mortgage companies in some neighborhoods.

Check with your builder, realtor or lender to determine the status of your property.

level of assurance that the prospective

CREDIT UNIONS

buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big

Credit unions are a good source for mort-

plus in a competitive market. Pre-ap-

gage loans because they may offer lower

proval requires the completion of a

or competitive rates. Historically, credit

loan application and sometimes a fee.

unions have been employer-based finan-

Pre-qualification, on the other hand,

cial institutions but today it is common

is just an estimate of a mortgage that a

The City of Houston, Harris County and

for credit unions to be community-based,

prospective buyer might qualify for.

other governmental entities also offer

meaning that anyone can use a credit

homebuyer assistance programs that can

union as their primary financial insti-

TAX DEDUCTIONS

provide down payment assistance and

tution. Members are insured for up to

Some home purchase costs are deductible

special financing for buyers who meet

$250,000 per account by the National

if you itemize deductions. These costs

certain household income and purchase

Credit Union Administration.

price criteria.

taxes and PMI payments. For more infor-

More information about credit unions is

Other programs include Southeast Texas

mation, visit www.irs.gov or ask your tax

available from the Texas Credit Union

Housing Finance (www.sethfc.com) and

preparer or attorney.

League ( www.tcul.org) and the Credit Union

the Harris County Downpayment Assis-

National Association (www.cuna.org).

tance Program (harriscountytx.gov/csd).

may include mortgage interest, real estate

BANKS

FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS A variety of programs are designed to help first-time buyers, including FHA loans with a 3 percent down payment as previously discussed.

Information is also available from the Texas

Banks offer a full range of services that

HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE

usually include mortgages at competitive

Homeowner’s insurance is required by mort-

rates. In addition to checking and savings

gage lenders, and is essential even if a home is

accounts, their mortgage lending is another

paid for. Buyers are typically asked to pay one

Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders

option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about

year of insurance at closing, with premiums

are also good sources of information about

fees associated with the bank’s services,

included in monthly mortgage payments.

available homebuyer assistance programs. 

34

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

Department of Housing & Community Affairs (www.tdhca.state.tx.us).

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

35

TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF A MOVE TO

FORT BEND COUNTY 3-HOUR PROPERTY TOUR

Making a move from one city to another can be daunting.

Whether your move was brought on by the latest promotion, a burgeoning romance, or simply a fresh start to a new adventure, there is a lot to consider and thoughtful planning with help from an expert can make the entire process flow smoothly.

Fort Bend is loved by its residents, not only for its “down home” southern hospitality, but also the diverse cultures and activities available. With so many options, making a decision of where to move can be difficult. Getting to know the area in advance of a move goes a long way to ease the stress and uncertainty of a new environment. Here are some key factors to consider and compare before your move:

36

NEIGHBORHOODS Fort Bend is home to some of the finest neighborhoods in the state with a plentiful blend of established and new development subdivisions. Master-planned subdivisions are architecturally controlled to have cohesive aesthetics between commercial and residential properties. They are designed to accommodate your entire life in a single area with parks, lakes, open areas, recreation, dining, shopping and schools.

They typically have varying price ranges within the master plan, so a homeowner can start in a first-time buyer segment, move-up to 2nd tier housing later and ultimately purchase high-end luxury all within the same master-planned

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

community. Some other popular types of neighborhoods in Fort Bend include acreage communities, gated communities and active adult living communities.

SCHOOLS Fort Bend County is home to a plethora of nationally ranked and state acclaimed schools

within

four

different

school

“

Fort Bend is loved by its residents not only for its “down home” southern hospitality, but also the diverse cultures and activities available.

”

districts (Fort Bend ISD, Lamar ISD,

Bend is home to an ever-growing epicenter

market data, demographics, school infor-

Needville ISD and Stafford MSD). In

of activity and events. Moving can be espe-

mation and beautiful homes, he can tell you

addition, there are a number of presti-

cially intimidating for children, so having a

where to get the best hair cut or take Fido if

gious private schools from early education

chance to explore and show them how they

he gets sick. You want an area specialist.

through high school. Texas has no state

can still participate in their favorite activities

income tax so property taxes are used as a

provides security and reassurance.

primary source of funding for schools.

The real estate professionals at Keller Williams

Southwest

special

for

reloca-

“3-hour

The best way to navigate all of the options

tour includes an overview of the area

available to you as you choose your new

including

visiting

Whether you love biking, golfing, running,

home is working with a knowledgeable

different

communities.

or gardening, locating others who share

expert in the area. Spend an afternoon with

281-265-0000 to schedule your free, no

your passion can quickly cause a new place

someone who takes the time to ask in-depth

obligation home tour for an afternoon.

to feel like home. From clubs and organiza-

questions, to find out what is important

Let us show you the best of what Fort

tions to hobby groups within HOAs, Fort

to you. Not only should he or she provide

Bend has to offer. 

Finding a home that makes it easy to engage in the activities and hobbies you enjoy significantly reduces stress caused by a move.

ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION

especially

a

PERSONALIZED 3-HOUR HOME TOUR

LIFESTYLE

tour”

offer

tion buyers. This free, no obligation several

homes

Simply

in call

in this section public schools private schools higher education

Photo Courtesy of Calvary Episcopal Preparatory; October Dawn Photography

38

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

EDUCATION IN FORT BEND COUNTY Home to some of the largest and most highly rated public school districts in Texas and the U.S., Fort Bend County offers its residents an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities.

Highly regarded public schools are one of

The District is Texas’ seventh largest with

Children at Risk, The Washington Post’s

the most important ingredients in Fort Bend

approximately 76,000 students and one of

Top High Schools in the national rankings,

County’s winning quality of life recipe.

the most diverse in the nation. Working and

U.S. News & World Report’s Best High

From the diverse Fort Bend ISD, to smaller

learning cohesively alongside families who

Schools in the nation and the United States

districts that maintain their rural char-

speak more than 90 languages and dialects,

Presidential Scholars Program.

acter, parents will find top-notch education

the schools work together with students,

throughout the county. When it comes to

their families and the community to address

In Fort Bend ISD we say “Our District”

higher education and workforce training,

each student’s unique needs.

because it takes everyone in Fort Bend ISD-

Fort Bend also excels. In the following

including

Fort Bend ISD currently has 80 campuses: 11

teachers,

Bend’s major school districts and educa-

high schools, 15 middle schools, 50 elemen-

community members-working together as

tional institutions.

tary campuses and three unique secondary

a collaborative community to inspire and

campuses to address the academic and voca-

equip all students to pursue futures beyond

tional interests of students. With more than

what they can imagine.

Fort Bend Independent School District www.fortbendisd.com • 281-634-1000 The quality of education in Fort Bend

students,

and

staff,

pages, we take a brief look at some of Fort

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

parents,

administrators,

the

11,000 full-time employees and substitutes, Bend County.

Katy Independent School District www.katyisd.org • 281-396-6000

Fort Bend ISD is committed to its mission

Serving parts of Fort Bend County, this

to inspire and equip all students to pursue

flourishing school district encompasses 181

futures beyond what they can imagine.

square miles, with its eastern boundary

the District is the largest employer in Fort

County has long been a driving force to

stretching to the Energy Corridor, about 16

attract families to the area. Fort Bend

Fort Bend ISD, its campuses and its students

miles west of Downtown Houston. District

County is one of the fastest growing coun-

are routinely recognized for exemplary

boundaries also extend along the Katy

ties in the nation. As the largest school

achievements by organizations such as

Freeway to a few miles west of the City of

district in the county, Fort Bend ISD is an

The National Merit Scholars Program, the

Katy. More than 81,978 students attend

outstanding K-12 public education system.

National Association of Music Merchants,

68 campuses, including 8 four-year high

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

39

F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N

highest ratings in Texas from Great-

located in LCISD, with developers (and new

Schools.org and Children At Risk, two

residents) attracted by the district’s high

nonprofit groups that rank schools based

passage rate on standardized tests, its highly

on test scores, the number of students

educated population (35% have bachelor’s

taking advanced classes, graduation rates

degrees) and high median income level.

and other metrics. Most recently, it was named the best school district in the Houston-Metro area by Niche, and was selected for District Administration’s District of Distinction Award.

Photo Courtesy of Calvary Episcopal Preparatory; October Dawn Photography

While welcoming growth, LCISD has kept its small-town values, including campuses

with

smaller

enrollments,

allowing students to have more opportunities to participate in leadership roles and

Lamar Consolidated Independent

extracurricular activities. While valuing

School District

its roots, LCISD strives to make sure its

www.lcisd.org • 832-223-0000

students and staff have access to the latest technology. Every year, a new group of

The

Lamar

Consolidated

Independent

teachers attends LCISD’s INTERACT

schools. Given the highest possible rating

School District is another major player

Academy, where they learn about the

by the Texas Education Agency, Katy ISD

in the educational lineup for Fort Bend

latest hardware and software and – most

offers an outstanding instructional program

County. Covering more than 384 square

importantly – how to use it keep the tech-

with facilities, equipment and materials

miles, LCISD is one of the area’s largest

savvy students engaged in the classroom.

that are among the best in the state. Katy

districts geographically, with an enrollment

ISD’s Seven Lakes High School is consis-

of over 31,000 students.

Overall, LCISD is a TEA Recognized District, with 75 percent of its schools

tently included on Newsweek’s annual list of “America’s Top 500 Public High Schools.”

Some of the newest and largest master-

ranked either Exemplary (11 schools) or

Katy ISD schools also earn some of the

planned communities in the area are

Recognized (13 schools).

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 >

Inspiring and equipping our students to pursue futures beyond what they can imagine!

A Fort Bend ISD Graduate has a rigorous academic foundation, strong character, and is …

CONNECT WITH US

40

EQUIPPED WITH SKILLS FOR LIFE

A SERVANT LEADER

AN EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR

A CRITICAL THINKER

A COMPASSIONATE CITIZEN

A COLLABORATIVE TEAM MEMBER

www.FortBendISD.com

Like Fort Bend ISD on Facebook.

Follow Fort Bend ISD on Twitter @FortBendISD.

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

A LIFE-LONG LEARNER

Fusion Academy Sugar Land One to One works

The value of fusion

You can't hide in a one-to-one classroom. You aren't competing with 40 other students to be heard. You aren't afraid to speak up because it's just you and the teacher. And there is no possibility of falling through the cracks.

Every student's path is different and we partner with others to help them achieve their goals, whatever they may be. Many of our students go on to attend a college or university, while some pursue a trade school, gap year, or another option.

Students and teachers spend their 50 minute class period together working through the material at a pace that works for the students. Our teachers work to first build trust with their students as a foundation for learning. We believe in the model "love, motivate, teach." Students aren't going to care about the material, if they don't feel connected with their teacher. A mentorship naturally forms, and that positive relationship drives student success.

While other schools may be cutting their art and music programs, we have a robust roster of electives for students to explore and pursue their creativity. We also have a wellness program that includes art and music, along with physical wellness and healthy habits. Students learn healthy self- expressions and how to deal effectively with stress, anxiety, low self- esteem, body image issues and social pressure.

beyond the classroom

Homework doesn't go home. Yes, you read that correctly. All students complete their homework in one of our Homework Cafe spaces on campus. Here, they have access to teacher help, and are kept accountable to finish their homework before leaving campus that day .

No more nightly homework battles!

Schedule a tour to come see customized education in action!

Call us at 281.207.9506 or visit us at fusionacademy.com

Fusion has been the best thing we’ve ever done for our child.

Fusion Sugar Land • FusionSugarLand.com • 281.207.9506

Full-Time Academy | Classes for Credit | Grades 6-12 | Tutoring

ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION

FORT BEND C HO OU U SNTTOY NE D ED UU CC AA T ITOI O NN

Needville Independent School District www.needvilleisd.com With its motto of “Learn Today, Fly Forever,” Needville ISD prides itself on its exemplary standards, as well as its rich history of academic and co-curricular success. Located entirely in Fort Bend County, NISD has an enrollment of just over 3,252 students at its four campuses, including Needville Elementary, Needville Middle, Needville Junior High and Needville High. The district’s core values include creating a learning organization focused on excellence; providing each student with engaging, challenging and meaningful work; and empowering each student to realize the opportunities that they have as 21st century learners.

Stafford Municipal School District www.staffordmsd.org The Stafford Municipal School District maintains its small-school district environment while addressing educational needs of the

21st century. With an enrollment of more than 3,200 students, this mid-sized district is home to five campuses located on a tree-lined, 77-acre complex. SMSD facilities are designed to allow all of the district’s students to attend the same elementary and secondary schools without zoning changes. The Stafford High School College and Career Center houses 12 academy programs designed to prepare students with the technical and professional skills necessary to succeed in today’s high-demand occupational environment. Students have the opportunity to utilize their academic skills in the following career fields: Law/ Criminal Justice, Business Management, Business Administration and Marketing, Graphic Arts, Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Health Sciences, Information Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, Culinary Arts, Early Childhood Education, Automotive Technology, and Manufacturing. All of the Academy programs are technically based, rigorous, relevant, and aligned with business and industry standards for the 21st Century workforce. Many of the Academy programs offer articulation and dual credit with neighboring postsecondary community colleges allowing students to earn college credit while fulfilling high school graduation requirements.

Students in grades K-12 can participate in Robotics and students in grades 3-12 can participate in UIL Academics. Students in grades 6th-8th can learn martial arts through the Kickstart program and secondary students can compete in football, baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, track, power-lifting, soccer, swimming, and cross-country. The Stafford Municipal School District is “The Best Little School District in Texas”.

future workplace. Serving children from Pre-K to 12th Grade, learning and achievement at BISH is supported by collaborations with The Juilliard School, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and FIRST® LEGO® League. These collaborations have allowed the school to fully embed STEAM programming throughout all year groups. The campus spans 34-acres and features purpose driven technology developed in conjunction with Apple, customizable maker spaces, state-of-the- art science labs, three athletic fields, an aquatic centre, two NCAA regulation size gymnasiums, and a 550-seat performing arts theater designed in collaboration with Juilliard.

Every aspect of the school is centered around learners and learning. From the innovative design of a new 275,000-square-foot building to their extensively trained teachers, BISH is committed to offering a world-class, personalized learning approach that enables each student to excel. Graduates achieve outstanding academic success through the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and gain acceptance to the finest universities and colleges in the US, UK and around the world. Students at BISH have access to incredible educational opportunities because it is part of Nord Anglia Education (NAE), the world’s premium schools organization. With 44 international schools around the world, including China, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and North America, NAE educates more than 38,000 students globally. Conveniently located off IH10 at N. Westgreen Boulevard and just minutes from the Grand Parkway, the British International School of Houston is acces-

PRIVATE SCHOOLS The British International School of Houston (BISH) www.bishouston.org • 713-290-9025 The British International School of Houston (BISH) is the city’s premier independent school committed to creating the highest quality learning environment in the world. The school ensures that students are equipped with the skills they will need to be successful in the

42

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

sible to families residing in all cities across the Greater Houston Area, including Katy, Houston, The Woodlands and Sugarland.

Calvary Episcopal Preparatory www.ces-richmond.org • 281-342-3161 While outstanding academics are a trademark for Calvary’s reputation of excellence since 1965, its pride as Fort Bend County’s premiere Christian school is how students and faculty treat each other and grow in their understanding of God’s CONTINUED ON PAGE 44 >

BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF HOUSTON YOU WANT THE BEST FOR YOUR CHILD. SO DO WE. The British International School of Houston provides children ages 2 to 18 with personalized learning that is based on each student’s unique capabilities and interests. Our globally-respected curriculum produces resilient, confident and lifelong learners.

LOCAL ROOTS WITH GLOBAL REACH While our school has strong roots in the Houston community, we welcome families from across the globe as well as across town. We respect and value the different cultures of our families and view our diversity as a celebrated strength. No matter where our students might come from, they all leave better prepared with a global passport to their future.

PERSONALIZED, INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING We not only value each child’s background, interests and skills, we actually use them as the foundation for learning. We encourage our students to pursue their own interests and actively seek the academic skills necessary to bring their passions to life. Skills

and knowledge obtained in this way become more meaningful and are better retained.

HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT Our state-of-the-art facility and specialized programming allow us to develop the whole person and not just the academic student. Our performance arts curriculum, designed in partnership with The Juilliard School, provides unparalleled opportunities to speak publicly, experience a variety of instruments as well as take part in the dramatic arts.

Our extensive physical education curriculum and extra-curricular athletics program allow students to regularly engage in sports and activities on three athletic fields including a FIFA-regulation soccer field, an aquatic centre and two NCAA-regulation size gymnasiums.

SCHEDULE A TOUR TO EXPERIENCE PERSONALIZED LEARNING FIRST-HAND: CALL 713.290.9025 OR VISIT WWW.BISHOUSTON.ORG

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expectations for them. The Calvary 3 R’s: Reverence for God, Respect for others, and Responsibility for self are the cornerstone for every aspect of the child’s educational journey. In addition to a rigorous and accelerated academic environment, the Calvary experience includes service learning, leadership opportunities, and enrichment programs for student creativity and expression. These programs include a successful athletic department, Student Council, National Honor Society, and visual and performing arts that encompass a Thespian Troupe, a National Arts Honor Society, and competitive band.

Calvary consistently wins district competition against other private schools in Private School Interscholastic Association (PSIA) for lower and middle school. Upper school students compete in Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS), sending many students to state each year.

Small classrooms and individualized attention assure that students enjoy a safe and nurturing environment, regardless of the

grade. Christian Character classes, Bible

determine college and career decisions as

instruction and three chapel services weekly

well as assist in developing college portfolios

foster an emotionally safe environment. This

and scholarship applications. CEP students

also translates into classrooms that are free

consistently graduate with multiple schol-

from other distractions such as bullying.

arship offers; last year’s top graduate was offered over $300,000 in scholarships.

Calvary is unique in that students learn to “live together” regardless of age, as the school

Calvary Episcopal Preparatory incorpo-

enters PK-4 year olds and graduates students

rates Christian character education, Bible

in grade 12. Students freely interact, with the

class, Spanish, and library lessons into the

older students mentoring the younger in a

learners’ experience. To schedule a tour of

diverse student body that is accepting of all

the campus, call 281-342-3161 and bring this

faiths and nationalities. (Calvary is an inter-

ad for $100 off the registration fee.

national school and issues the F-1 visa.)

Fort Bend Christian Academy The lower and middle grades accelerate the

www.fortbendchristian.org • 281-263-9105

curriculum so that students are instructed a grade above the national average. This

Fort Bend Christian Academy exists to glorify

results in median achievement test scores that

God through excellence in college-prepara-

range from 2 to 4 grades above. High school

tory Christian education. FBCA is a pre-k

students are encouraged to take Advanced

through grade 12 school located on a 35-acre

Placement courses, Dual Credit courses

campus in the heart of Sugar Land, one of

and graduate with a distinguished diploma.

the fastest-growing cities in Texas. As an inter-

Students meet regularly with a career and

denominational school, FBCA welcomes a

college counselor who helps the student

diverse population of

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 >

EDUCATION SERVICES

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

FORT BEND CHAMBER MEMBERS | EDUCATION

44

Bridge Preparatory Academy

832-886-4940

www.bridgeprepacademy.org

Calvary Episcopal Preparatory

281-342-3161

www.ces-richmond.org

Cornerstone Christian Academy

281-980-0842

www.cornerstonecca.org

DWI Education of Southeast Texas

281-215-4106

www.texasdwiclasses.com

Fort Bend Christian Academy

281-263-9175

www.fortbendchristian.org

Logos Preparatory Academy

281-565-6467

www.logosprep.org

Primrose School of First Colony

281-565-2707

www.primrosefirstcolony.com

The W.I.D.E. School

281-208-9545

www.thewideschool.com

Fort Bend ISD

281-634-1000

www.fortbendisd.com

Katy ISD

281-396-6000

www.katyisd.org

Lamar CISD

832-223-0332

www.lcisd.org

Stafford Municipal School District

281-261-9200

www.staffordmsd.org

Harmony School of Innovation - Sugar Land

281-302-6445

www.hsisl.harmonytx.org

KUMON Math & Reading Center of Richmond - Pecan Grove

281-915-3311

www.kumon.com/richmond-pecan-grove

Montessori Kids Universe Of Bellaire

281-766-8621

www.montessorikidsbellaire.com

Neuhaus Education Center

713-664-7676

www.neuhaus.org

The Honor Roll School

281- 265-7888

www.thehonorrollschool.com

The Tutoring Center, Richmond TX

832-449-3286

www.richmond.tutoringcenter.com

Tutor Doctor

281-533-5300

www.tutordoctor.com/missouri-city-south

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

FORT BEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY OFFERS BALANCE TO FAMILIES Relocating to a city as large as Houston can be overwhelming, but getting your family plugged into the r ight school com m un it y can ease the t rans ition and make a new place feel like home.

Often, the r ight school choice is determined by the school’s ability to balance academics, extracur ricular opportunities and spiritual values. Fort Bend Ch r i stian Academy, a p r ivate school serving grades pre-k through 12, embodies that balance.

WE TRUST GOD Ch r istian val ues a re a d r iving fo rce i n p a re nt s’ d e c i s i o n to e n ro l l t h e i r children in FBCA. FBCA proclaims that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of G o d. A l l s u b j e ct s a re p res e nte d from a biblical perspective, with the Scripture as the measuring rod of all t r uth. Students i n eve r y g rade level at te n d we e k l y ch a p e l a n d m i d d l e s c h o o l a n d u p p e r s c h o o l s t u d e nt s take theology courses as part of their graduation requirements.

WE PURSUE WISDOM A college-preparatory curriculum is the other primary reason parents decide FBCA is the right school for their family. Students at FBCA receive an academically challenging course of study with a curriculum designed to provide a superior spiritual and intellectual environment. Fifty different Honors and Advanced Placement classes are offered at the upper school level, and middle school students with accelerated educational development may also participate in an honors curriculum.

WE SHAPE SOCIETY F B CA fe at u res e n r i ch m e nt c l a s s es, competitive athletics, before and after school programs, nationally-recognized c l u b s a n d exce pt i o n a l co m m u n i t y service and philanthropic involvement.

Students hold multiple state championships in athletics and fine arts. The school has produced a number of National Merit Scholars, and 100% of graduates enroll in college or enlist in the military, w i t h m o s t s t u d e nt s at te n d i n g t h e i r

first-choice university. Alumni serve in various career fields, and many obtain post-graduate degrees in law, medicine, engineering and more.

WE LEAD WITH LOVE Finally, the community aspect of FBCA truly makes it feel like home. Various events th roughout the yea r provide oppor tunities for the whole family to come together. There are multiple ways for parents to get involved such as Parent Teacher Fellowship, Men’s Bible Study and Moms in Prayer. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BALANCED EDUCATION AT FORT BEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, VISIT | WWW. FORTBENDCHRISTIAN.ORG

happens here Is giving back important to your family?

At Fort Bend Christian Academy, students learn in a global environment, embrace diversity and develop a passion for philanthropy.

Learn more about our unique opportunities to serve locally, throughout the U.S. and abroad. Schedule a visit today!

281-263-9105 | fortbendchristian.org/admissions 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 College-Preparatory Christian Education for Grades PreK-12

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F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N

Fusion Academy, Sugar Land www.FusionSugarLand.com • 281-207-9506 A School Built for Your Child. Fusion Academy is a customized one-to-one school that creates a unique program for each child we teach. Students come to our school for an accredited full-time academy that is more personalized than their traditional middle or high school. Others are looking to take single classes for credit, courses to accelerate their

At Primrose School of First Colony, “readiness” means more than just learning how to add and spell. It means learning how to think critically, use mathematical concepts, share and show self-control-skills that support a positive transition to elementary school. Primrose Schools supports the development of social and life skills, as well as executive function.

Research shows that executive functioning skills help children establish positive relationships and close the achievement gap.

learning, or they need an alternative schedule to pursue sports and careers in the arts.

We offer rolling enrollment, so students can Photo Courtesy of British International School of Houston; Paul Pacey Photography

start at any time of the year, even mid-semester or in the summer. Many students join us during the summer to catch up from a previous semester, get ahead before the fall, or

students who attend more than 100 area churches.

to try something completely new.

Our campus is open beyond traditional school

Students at FBCA receive an academically challenging course of study with curriculum designed to provide a superior spiritual and intellectual environment. Fifty different Honors and Advanced Placement classes are offered at the upper school level, and middle school students with accelerated educational development may also participate in an honors curriculum. Spiritually, academically and professionally qualified, all teaching staff are certified educators, many possessing a master’s degree or higher.

hours, so students may supplement their

FBCA features small class sizes, uniforms, a hot lunch program, before and after school programs, enrichment classes, clubs and strong community service involvement. Outside of the classroom, students hold multiple state championships in athletics and fine arts.

Primrose School of First Colony

The school has produced a number of National Merit Scholars, and 100% of graduates enroll in college or enlist in the military, with most students attending their first-choice university. Alumni serve in various career fields, and many obtain post-graduate degrees in law, medicine, engineering and more.

concepts and acquisition of social skills- that

For more information about Fort Bend Christian Academy, contact the Admissions Office at admissions@fortbendchristian.org or call 281-263-9105.

dren who receive a quality preschool, pre-k

46

current education by joining us after school for a single course, as well as tutoring or mentoring. It’s a great way to improve on current skills or to enhance learning at their own pace.

If you’re looking for a way to bring a more unique and personalized learning experience to your child, contact the Fusion Sugar Land campus today to see if Fusion is right for your child. Please call 281-207-9506 or visit www.FusionSugarLand.com.

www.primrosefirstcolony.com • 281-565-2707 Primrose Schools has more than 270 accredited, private preschools nationwide, and

The Primrose Schools Balanced Learning System blends academics, play, and character development to build a strong foundation and nurture a lifelong love of learning. In addition to core academic subjects, the curriculum includes enrichment programs in music, physical activity, art, sign language, Spanish, technology and social skills.

Parents choose Primrose School of First Colony because of its proven value in preparing children for success in school and in life. Nationally recognized assessment tools and their own research with Primrose parents show that Primrose pre-k and kindergarten students are advanced in social skills and concept knowledge, and therefore more ready for elementary school than many of their peers.

Primrose School of First Colony believes that with the right foundation, anything is possible for your child. To learn more about the many lifelong benefits of enrolling your child in the pre-k and kindergarten programs at Primrose School of First Colony. Call or visit the website.

Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy www.westlakeprep.org • 281-341-9910

provides a balanced approach to school readiness- a well-rounded preparation in basic gives children the foundation for a future filled with promise.

“School readiness is essential to a child’s success in elementary school and beyond,” said Estela Papadopulos, Franchise Owner of Primrose School of First Colony. “Chiland kindergarten education develop into well-rounded

individuals

prepared

learning and for life.”

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

for

Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy is a private Christian school dedicated to providing faith-based educational programs which focus on academic excellence and spiritual growth.

A college preparatory school currently offering PreK3 - 8th grade with future plans to add a year a grade through 12th grade. West­ lake equips students to become courageous leaders while serving Jesus Christ in our changing world.

Westlake recognizes that your children are your most important possession, and takes the responsibility you CONTINUED ON PAGE 48 >

Primrose School of First Colony YOUR CHILD’S PATH TO EDUCATIONAL DISCOVERY BEGINS HERE We bel i eve w ho ch i l d ren become i s a s i m po r ta nt a s what they know. For over 30 years, Primrose Schools has helped empower children like yours to reach their full potential. Our exclusive, time-tested Balanced Learning approach was created from the best ear ly education w i sd o m of b a l a n ci n g p u r posef u l p l a y a n d n u r t u r i n g guidance to encourage curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion.

Prop rieta r y Cu r riculum: Resea rch - info r med and time-tested Training: We train our people to be the best Equipment: From tables and chairs to toys and books, every piece of equipment is chosen for a purpose Assessment: Highly personalized and tailored to each age level We k now that a chi ld’s inte rests can lead to exciting exploration, discover y and understanding of the world.

That’s why our proprietary curriculum integrates language

and literacy; science, technology, engineering, creative ar ts and math (STE AM); social studies; music; physical development and health; and compassion, kindness and life skills continuously throughout the day.

Your Child’s Path to Educational Discovery Begins Here E ve r y s ta g e o f y o u r c h i l d’s e d u c a t i o n i s f i l l e d w i t h a g e - a p p ro p r i ate, e n r i ch i n g ex p e r i e n ce s l e d by o u r passionate, committed and caring staff.

Infant to Preschool Classrooms: Inspir ing cur iosit y and wonder in the Primrose Wonder Program.

Preschool through Kindergarten Classrooms: Encouraging children to venture out and discover the world around them in the Primrose Venture Program.

After School Care for ages 5 to 10: Stimulating continued exploration of a child’s individual interests in the Primrose Explorers Program.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL OR VISIT ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS

FACT:

There are valuable lessons involved in learning how to use a microscope.

BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:

Including how to share.

SEE BALANCED LEARNING IN ACTION. CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY!

Infants – Private Kindergarten and After School

Primrose School of First Colony 4605 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.565.2707 PrimroseFirstColony.com

Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2018 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.

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F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N

entrust to them seriously. Your child will be challenged and motivated to excel academically in a loving and caring environment.

The dedicated teachers see their vocation as a true calling and integrate the intangibles of faith, morals, ethics and service in the classroom as each student pursues a solid academic foundation. Westlake employs only certified and degreed teachers, and with some holding a Master’s degree. Each class is also equipped with the latest technology to support the curriculum, particularly in the areas of math, science, reading, writing and history/ geography.

As a premier private school in the Katy/ Richmond area, Westlake strives to prepare children for “today, tomorrow and eternity.”

They are conveniently located southwest of the Grand Parkway and Westpark Tollway intersection. If you are looking for an inspiring environment for your child, call or visit their website for more information.

HIGHER EDUCATION

FORT BEND CHAMBER MEMBERS | HIGHER EDUCATION Houston Baptist University

281-649-3206

www.hbu.edu

Houston Community College Southwest-Stafford

713-718-7737

www.southwest.hccs.edu

North American University

832-230-5555

www.na.edu

Texas State Technical College

832-595-8734

www.waco.tstc.edu

University of Houston at Sugar Land

713-743-5975

www.sugarland.uh.edu

Wharton County Junior College

281-243-8412

www.wcjc.edu

As one of the largest institutions of higher

HCC Southwest is home to two centers of

learning in the nation, the Houston Commu-

excellence dedicated to equipping students

nity College System (HCCS) is a recognized

with the skills and knowledge needed for

leader in awarding academic degrees and

a successful career – the Advanced Manu-

workforce certifications. HCC Southwest, the

facturing Center of Excellence based at the

largest of six colleges in the system, has served

Stafford campus, and the Digital and Infor-

the Fort Bend County and southwest Houston

mation Technology Center of Excellence at

communities for more than 40 years.

the West Loop campus.

HCC Southwest is dedicated to bringing the

For more information about HCC South-

highest quality education to the communi-

west offerings and registration, contact one

ties it serves. The college offers programs that

of the HCC Southwest many locations.

A variety of well-regarded institutions offer higher education in Fort Bend County, and residents also have easy access to top-rated colleges and universities throughout the Houston region.

prepare college students for pursuing a four-

The University of Houston, a Tier 1 research university on a par with Texas A&M and the University of Texas, recently designated its growing Sugar Land campus as an official branch of the main campus. This provides new accountability and oversight for campus development, master planning and program development at UH Sugar Land.

can be completed in as soon as six months.

Other major institutions of higher learning in Fort Bend include the University of Houston System at Cinco Ranch, Houston Community College System, Texas State Technical College and Wharton County Junior College.

for older adults.

Houston Community College (HCC) Southwest Stafford Campus 713.718.7800 Missouri City Campus 713.718.2900 West Loop Campus 713.718.7868 Brays Oaks Campus 713.718.8600 Gulfton Center 713.718.2966 www.hccs.edu

48

year degree. And for high school students, dual-credit classes and early college high school curricula are available to ready them for a fasttrack career or four-year degree. The programs

The college is home to an Honors College for academically gifted students and the VAST Academy for “differently abled” persons.

Students also have access to sports, paid internships, career services and student associations.

And lifelong learning opportunities are offered

University of Houston Sugar Land www.uh.edu/sugarland • 832-842-2900 The University of Houston at Sugar Land is UH, Tier One higher education in greater Fort Bend County. UH at Sugar Land welcomes students who are core-complete and ready to pursue studies in our innovative programs, or major in one of the UH programs offered here.

We are industry partnered, student-centered and community inspired, serving Houston-area students with state-of-the-art facilities and flexible schedules close to home and work.

The University of Houston at Sugar Land

HCC Southwest includes the Stafford,

offers undergraduate, graduate and profes-

Missouri City, West Loop and Brays

sional certificate opportunities for the students

Oaks campuses, and the Gulfton center,

it serves. UH at Sugar Land is home to two

offering a broad array of programs to meet

inaugural programs in Nursing and Digital

the diverse needs of students of all back-

Media. The University has a total of 10 under-

grounds and age groups.

graduate majors from five UH colleges.

With more than 40 foreign countries repre-

UH at Sugar Land is in partnership with

sented in its student body, the college’s

Wharton County Junior College. UH at

Intensive English and English as a Second

Sugar Land is located in Fort Bend County,

Language courses help international students

one of the most diverse counties in the

make a smooth transition to their studies.

country. Our campus spans 270 acres near

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

KICK-START YOUR FUTURE AT HCC

Information Technology Advanced Manufacturing Health Business Art & Design and More Degree & Certificate Programs Offered

HCCS.EDU/APPLY 713.718.2000 | 713.718.2277 @HCCSWcollege

Stafford Campus 10041 Cash Road, Stafford

Missouri City Campus 1600 Texas Parkway, Missouri City

West Loop Campus Brays Oaks Campus 5601 West Loop S., Houston

8855 West Bellfort, Houston

Gulfton Center

5407 Gulfton Street, Houston

F O R T B E N D C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N

of study in various disciplines, the Sugar Land campus offers the Asso- ciate Degree Nursing (ADN) program and AAS degrees in Computer Simulation & Game Development, Digital Media, Early Childhood, Paralegal Studies, and Law Enforcement.

In 2017, the college renovated and expanded its Richmond Campus to accommodate a new cosmetology program and expansion of the existing process technology program.

At the Richmond campus, students also take college transfer classes, as well as technical courses that train them in fastgrowing career fields. Numerous fields of study are available that lead to AAS degrees or certificates. the Brazos River. Plan a campus tour by calling 832-842-2900 or visit on your own.

Wharton County Junior College www.wcjc.edu • 1-800-561-WCJC Wharton County Junior College: Small classes, affordability, personal attention and four campuses make it a great choice Wharton County Junior College (WCJC) offers more than 40 Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees, an Associate of Arts (AA) degree, an Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) degree, dual credit and concurrent enrollment courses, plus certificates, continuing education and workforce development programs.

Since WCJC’s founding more than 70 years ago in Wharton, Texas, the college has grown to include four campuses serving about 7,000 credit students. Modern, vibrant campuses in Sugar Land, Richmond, and Bay City complement WCJC’s traditional campus in Wharton that provides athletics and fine arts programs plus on-campus housing.

WCJC’s Sugar Land campus, housed on the campus of the University of Houston Sugar Land, is composed mostly of students working on the first two years of their fouryear degrees. Students can choose from an array of core courses and continue their studies at four-year institu- tions. In addition to an AA degree with an emphasis

50

Other Richmond campus programs are in Early Childhood, Emergency Medical Services, Engineering Design, Human Services, Law Enforcement, Business Office Technology, Paralegal Studies, Process Tech- nology, Computer Science, and a Police Academy.

WCJC’s Wharton campus offers transfer courses and more than 30 vocational programs. The campus is home to seven allied health programs and programs in Public Safety, Computer Science, Engineering Design, Office Administration, Early Childhood, Automotive Technology, and Cosmetology. Additionally, the Bay City campus offers transfer classes, plus courses leading to AAS degrees and/or certif- icates in Manufacturing Technology, Nuclear Power Technology, and Process Technology.

WCJC has formal and informal agree- ments with many colleges and universities regarding transferability of college credits, helping students to save time and money by taking their core courses for four-year degrees close to home. The college continues to help students achieve their dreams with affordable tuition, smaller classes and personalized attention. To learn more, visit wcjc.edu.

New Horizons - Your Partner in Training www.nhhouston.com • 713-552-1414 For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

a leader in IT training. With over 100 locations worldwide, they have grown to become the largest independent training company in the industry. Their career and corporate training solutions help turn ambitious personal and business goals into results. They use varying training methods for virtually every schedule and learning style, along with vendor-approved learning tools and expert instruction. They have trained more than 30 million people to make the most of technology, and they feel like they are just getting started.

Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training and certifications for top technology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being an authorized partner ensures that the students have the highest quality training materials and train on the latest products and technologies available. Courses provided fall into categories like desktop applications, technical training and professional development.

Flexible Training Approach Based on Learner Needs - They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy specific needs. Learning methods include Online ANYTIME, on-site training, private classes and Online LIVE. Online Live removes geographical boundaries from learning by bringing students and instructors together synchronously in a virtual real-time classroom environment.

This program provides students all of the benefits of being in a dynamic interactive classroom – enabling students to study from work, home or a New Horizons center.

New Horizons offers real-time, cloudbased lab solutions as well, allowing students to access their labs anytime and anywhere. The state-of-the-art, fully-configured live lab environment provides students hands-on access to the systems and applications taught in the classrooms, empowering them to learn on their own schedules. 

HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE AT YOUR DOORSTEP

Ser ving southwest Houston and For t Bend County, Houston Community College Southwest comprises five locations offering a wide array of academic programs and workforce enrichment. The credit courses are transferable to four-year universities in Texas while certificate programs can be completed in as few as six weeks.

Students enjoy a wide range of services from academic and career advising to admissions assistance to financial aid guidance.

estate, science, psychology, humanities, education, sociology and more.

WEST LOOP CAMPUS

GULFTON CENTER

The West Loop campus at 5601 West Loop S. is home to the Digital and Information Technology Center of Excellence, offering programs such as iOS coding and design, digital gaming and simulation, geographic information science and computer programming. Other areas of study include business, health sciences, art and design, and short-term continuing education courses.

STAFFORD CAMPUS The Stafford campus at 10041 Cash Road comprises the Learning Hub, the Scarcella Science and Technology Center, the Fine Arts Center, and the Workforce Building, which is headquarters for the Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence and a U.S. Department of Labo r- designated Apprenticeship Center. The campus offers manufacturing engineering technology, machining technology, 3D printing and robotics, in addition to IT, science, fine arts, liberal arts, humanities, business and accounting.

BRAYS OAKS CAMPUS The Brays Oaks campus at 8855 West Bellfort serves younger and older students with credit courses and short-term classes to upgrade skills for better careers. The campus offers courses in health sciences, information technology, business, interior design and more.

The Gulfton Center at 5407 Gulfton Road offers classes in various levels of English learning including English as a Second Language (ESL).

HCC Southwest brings the world of education to your doorstep with quality programs, small class size, affordable tuition and varied pathways to fulfilling careers.

For more information and to apply, call 713.718.2000 or 713.718.2277, or visit hccs.edu.

MISSOURI CITY CAMPUS The Missouri City campus at 1600 Texas Parkway offers prerequisite courses for health profession programs from nursing to medical coding to pharmacy technology.

Other offerings include IT, business management, real

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in this section retirement communities independent care assisted living memory & extended care

52

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

ACTIVE ADULTS +senior living

While the options for living and playing are evolving to meet the changing demands of today’s active seniors, families should carefully approach senior relocation with preparation, sensitivity and patience.

More and more seniors don’t see them-

dreams and plans, and very often, the

offer an array of housing, activity, exercise

selves as seniors (unless they get a discount

energy to pursue them. Of course, people

and social options, to full-care facilities that

if they do). Increasingly, the years after age

with more leisure time can perfect their golf

care for people with mental and physical

65 are more numerous and more active.

swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas,

disabilities, and every-thing in between,

One of the reasons is that Americans are

but these days, they’re also choosing to go

there is a senior living solution to fit every

healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor and

back to school, learn a new language, run

desire and need.

emergency room less, spend fewer days in

marathons, volunteer, or take up a new

hospital and exercise more.

hobby. More people are opting to burn out

TAKING STOCK

rather than rust out.

In order to narrow your options in what

Turning 65 no longer means receiving a

could be an overwhelming list of choices

watch, a party and hearty congratulations

And the options for living and playing

and to help you choose the best one, put

for years spent at a job, only to be put out

are also evolving to meet the changing

some time into the stock-taking process

to pasture to watch the rest of the world go

demands of this growing group of people.

by taking a personal inventory of living

by. Today’s seniors now have many options,

From upscale retirement communities that

expenses, health, interests and expectations.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

53

A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G

• How much would the home sell for on today’s market?

• What would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home?

• Would there be any money left over from the purchase of a new home that could be safely invested?

• What are the options for downsizing into a less expensive home, renting an apartment, or moving into an assisted living or alternative senior housing situation? (Visit AARP’s website and use their Reverse Mortgage Calculator: www.aarp.com).

PACK IT UP But maybe, it’s time for a move. Perhaps the 30-year family home is too big and you’re rattling around it like a marble in a shoe box, or you’re tired of the outdoor upkeep, Budget Inventory: what does it cost to

type of home loan that lets you convert a

or you want to be closer to the place or

live every month? What are you spending

portion of the equity in your home into

activities that you now have time for. Before

on housing or rental; how much does

cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department

you choose your new home, once again,

it cost to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a

of Housing and Urban Development,

take stock. Be realistic about your situation,

mortgage on it? What other expenses do you have? Food, entertainment, transportation? What medical expenses do you currently have, or do you anticipate? Be as thorough and honest in your assess-

HUD offers this federally insured private loan which can give you greater financial security to supplement social security, meet unexpected medical expenses, make

your expectations, your finances and your health. It’s as important to consider access to medical doctors and facilities as it is to think about fun and leisure pursuits. Make sure the new community is one that you

ment as you can, so that you can make an

home improvements and more. And,

will enjoy, that it has convenient ameni-

informed decision.

unlike a traditional home equity loan or

ties and access to services, and that a new

second mortgage, you usually do not have

house will be a good investment. If you’re

Lifestyle inventory: How do you want

to repay the loan until you no longer use

still active, you might want to be among

to live? Need more time for golf ? You

the home as your principal residence,

folk just like you. Think carefully before

might want to live on a course. Want to

sell it, or pass away. The money from a

making decisions that will determine your

do some volunteering? You may decide to move closer to the city, school or community center. Want to make new friends?

Many

senior’s

communities

are set up to allow you to do just that.

reverse loan may be paid out in a variety of ways: a lump sum, a regular monthly cash advance, as a credit line account, or any combination of the above. To qualify,

Again, the more careful you are in your

you must be at least 62, and own the home

analysis, the more prepared you will be

outright or carry a mortgage small enough

to make the right decisions.

to be paid off by the proceeds; there are no income or credit qualifications or monthly

SHOULD YOU STAY OR SHOULD YOU GO?

payments, but you are responsible to pay the annual taxes, property insurance and maintenance of the home.

STAY PUT You can retire in your own home by with-

The best way to determine if a reverse mort-

drawing some of the equity you’ve built up

gage is the best fit for your retirement plan is

with a reverse mortgage, which is a special

to honestly assess the following:

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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

happiness in the years to come.

ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES If you’re a healthy, independent senior, you may find that you simply want to live in a community where you can enjoy the company of others and your own personal interests. Moving to an active independent living retirement community might be the best fit for your budget and lifestyle, where options include renting an apartment or purchasing a property.

Many active senior communities have information packets and offer tours. A personal visit will give valuable, firsthand information

and an opportunity to meet current residents who can share their own experience and insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness programs, organized activities, sporting options, and social opportunities. Other day-to-day living arrangements should also be considered, such as shopping centers and grocery stores within easy walking distance, and the availability of transportation services. Where is the community located in proximity to major health care providers?

What security measures are in place for residents? For ultimate peace of mind, you might opt to rent a home under a short-term agreement at first to make sure the community provides for your needs and lives up to your expectations.

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offers care in a residential facility for seniors, with a full menu of services and living situations. Residents may go from independent living, to assisted living and nursing home care, depending on their individual, changing needs and abilities.

A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or Communities) generally offers a contract that covers a continuum of care, including access to housing, services, and health care

“

Seniors in Houston find that they have a wide variety of housing options that can accommodate their budget, while enjoying their lifestyle in a community that encourages the development and pursuit of their personal interests.

for more than one year, or the balance of one’s life. It is a wise idea to move into a CCRC sooner rather than later, as most require that new residents live independently when they first move in.

There is a range of contract options offered

by CCRCs. An extensive-care contract is the most expensive, but carries the least risk, providing unlimited long-term nursing care at little or no additional cost for as long as nursing-home services are required. A modified-care contract comes with medium financial risk, and provides long-term health or nursing services for a specified period, after which, the senior or guardian is responsible for additional costs. A fee-for-service contract offers an a-la-carte approach, requiring that residents

”

pay separately for all health and medical services provided by the facility, as well as long-term care.

Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus monthly fees thereafter. Some require an equity agreement where seniors purchase a condominium or co-op apartment on the property instead of paying an entrance fee.

Less commonly found are CCRC contracts where residents pay monthly fees only.

Before signing a contract with a CCRC, conduct a thorough review of the facility’s services, operations and finances, and determine if it is appropriate to your needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also a good idea to ask a family attorney or accountant to review the contract. If the contract is

SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS “The time to begin thinking about a retirement community isn’t when you have to have it,” advises Terry Martinez with Parmer Woods Retirement & Assisted Living. “Think about it when you don’t need it. There are a wide variety of alternatives available for every level of activity, health and need.

Today’s Baby Boomers who are in or approaching their retirement years are taking advantage of active retirement communities where residents are vigorous and involved.

Or, they are finding senior-care housing communities that em-ploy medically trained staff, provide housekeeping and meal preparation services, as well as transportation for shopping, medical visits, and social outing. Or, they are seeking a more physically and medically sup-portive environment.

Whatever choice is best for you, it’s out there, but should be considered without stress.

And the prices vary. “When you’re trying to stay within a particular price range, you want to match your living requirements with services offered,” says Martinez. “If you are very independent and don’t need assistance – just want a meal plan, for example – then the associated costs are much less than for someone who requires more care.” Also, Medicare generally does not pay for long-term care, only for services deemed medically necessary that are provided by a skilled facility or home health care center. Medicaid will pay for certain health services and nursing home care for older people with low incomes and limited assets.

The place you choose should facilitate life at a level of independence that is comfortable for you or for your loved one.

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55

A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G

found agreeable, ask to spend at least one night and two days at the facility, to test drive the community and make sure it is a good fit. Some points to consider include:

• Are pets allowed in your residence?

• What social, recreational and cultural activities are offered?

• Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it?

• Are there fitness facilities onsite?

• Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable?

• What healthcare and personal care services are available?

• What preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations?

• Is there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided?

CCRCs can be anything from high-rise apartments, to cottages, townhouses or single-family homes, and are an excellent option for those who are independent and in good health, but might need some assistance with daily living needs or require skilled nursing care.

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES An Assisted Living Community (ALC) bridges the gap for those who need assistance with daily activities a nursing home might offer, but wish to live independently.

Residents in an ALC are unable to live completely by themselves, but don’t need constant supervision. An ALC offers its residents assistance with eating, bathing, dressing, laundry, housekeeping, and keeping track of medications. They often have centers for medical care, but typically do not offer the extensive medical services provided by a nursing home. An ALC is not a substitute for a nursing home, but rather is a stepping stone between complete independence and services provided by a nursing home.

Often, an ALC will create an individualized service plan for seniors upon admission, detailing personal services that will be provided. This plan is then periodically reviewed and updated to

56

ensure changing needs are met. Housing in an ALC may be studios or one-bedroom apartments with small kitchen facilities.

Typically, ALC housing units have group dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities.

www.dads.state.tx.us.

While

state

law

prohibits agency employees from recommending one facility over another, they can answer the following recommended questions about any facility:

•H ave there been any proposed license

As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions:

•H ow many complaints have been filed

• Are the grounds well maintained?

• Is the staff friendly?

• Are the residents properly dressed?

• What activities are available?

terminations in the past two years? in the past year?

•H ow many complaints in the past year have been found to be valid?

ALCs that competently provide required services without forgetting about little details will give the same care and attention to residents.

NURSING CARE FACILITIES A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a state licensed, private-care facility that provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home.

It pays to shop around when selecting an NCF. Consult with a trusted doctor or health care practitioner for recommendations of nearby facilities. Plan on visiting at least four or five area facilities, and make an appointment with the administrator or director of nursing.

Check to make sure that information provided is consistent with information gathered during the facility tour.

The home should have clean floors and smell fresh.

•H ow many deficiencies have been cited in the past two years?

•H ow many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years?

•W hen did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit?

•H as the owner of this facility had other facilities recommended for license termination?

The answers to these questions, combined with observations and impressions made during facility tours and staff interviews will allow you to select the right nursing care facility.

ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES Seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia need specialized care. While some Assisted Living Communities offer services and separate facilities for residents with early onset symptoms, because of the progressive nature of the disease, it may become necessary to transfer the resident to another facility that

Ask to see the compliance survey report prepared by the State of Texas. It will list deficiencies found in resident care during routine inspections, and the facility’s effort to correct them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must make this and other survey compliance reports available upon request, as well as a well-lit place for review.

can give the right level of service. Facili-

Another option available is to contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) at 800-458-9858 or

tive to the needs of the patient. Please visit

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

ties specializing in the care of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients should provide a treatment plan that considers not only the resident’s medical needs, but also the needs of the entire family with social services, professional consultations and individualized treatment reviews, all set within a calm, soothing environment that is sensi| www.agingcare.com for additional information on care for the elderly. 

Visit us today at

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

57

in this section moving companies forwarding mail service & utilities public transportation international relocation

58

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

RELOCATION INFORMATION

No one likes to move and it’s never without its headaches and hassles, but the more you understand the process, and your new environment, the easier the move will be and the faster you can start enjoying your new home.

Obtaining as much information as possible

consideration your time and effort, as well

in advance about Fort Bend County and

as your physical ability.

the Greater Houston area will make your

TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES Most companies give free estimates based

move much smoother, especially if you are

At the other extreme, the global economy of

on distance and the weight of house-

relocating from out-of-state. To help get

Houston – and Fort Bend County in partic-

hold contents. Some moving companies

you started, the following pages offer some

ular – draws newcomers from all over the

include the costs of packing materials in

general tips on Houston’s basic services.

world, and there are a few important consid-

their bid while others break out supplies

More helpful information on moving is at |

erations to keep in mind when moving from

separately. Packing services, fuel charges,

www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.

overseas. If your overseas move is work-re-

wait time and temporary storage costs

lated, find out how much of the expense will

may vary considerably so be sure to ask

MOVING COMPANIES

be covered. As a general rule, many experts

about all charges.

If you are moving from out of state, it may

recommend scaling the move down to essen-

be necessary to hire a moving company.

tial items and those with emotional value.

The best time to move is the middle of

Find out about import fees and duty costs,

the month rather than the end or during summer vacation, when moving companies

especially for items you may have purchased

Moving companies offer three types of estimates: the binding estimate, non-binding estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate.

overseas. Also consider the size of your new

The binding estimate lists all items to be

space: will it be larger or smaller than the

shipped and the required services on the

If the move is less than 250-miles away,

home you’re leaving? If you’re a U.S. citizen

estimate form, and the price quoted is the

consider

yourself.

who is moving back from overseas, then you

binding price. Every charge is itemized,

Compare the relative costs of moving

might have many items in U.S. storage, so

so that if an item is added or deleted, it is

yourself versus using the services of a

you’ll need to plan the logistics of getting

easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving

moving company, and be sure to take into

these to your new home as well.

company must also specify the length of

are usually busiest.

making

the

move

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

59

R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

TIPS FOR HIRING A MOVING COMPANY • Select a moving company carefully by confirming their license at www.protectyourmove.gov or www.dmv.state.tx.us • The Southwest Association is another resource for information about moving companies and they can be reached at www.southwestmovers.org

or

512-476-

0107, Toll Free: 800-759-2305 • Contact the Better Business Bureau for any complaints that might be on file at www.houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500.

• The Interstate Commerce Commission offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and time the price quote is in effect, which is

dates are in the contract. Pick-up and

usually 60 days. This type of estimate does

delivery dates should not be open-ended.

Although

moving

companies

provide

liability insurance on household belongThe non-binding estimate, which is the only

ings by the pound, it is wise to purchase

type of estimate offered in some intrastate

extra insurance that provides additional

situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost

coverage, especially for those items that

of services is determined after the truck is

are more valuable.

loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20 percent.

Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both before and after furniture and household items are loaded to accurately calculate the total weight. The estimated amount of your move should be entered on each form that is prepared by the mover, including orders for special services and bills of lading. If the amounts are not included, do not sign or accept the document.

The third type of estimate, called the not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best.

The mover gives a binding estimate, then weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all movers if they offer this type of service.

MORE CONSIDERATIONS

Office of Compliance and Consumer Assistance, Washington, D.C., 20423.

not require additional payment over the amount of the estimate.

Responsibilities When You Move.” ICC

You can also find the brochure on many websites by searching for its title.

FURNITURE AND APPLIANCE RENTAL In some cases, it may be necessary to rent

Before the movers arrive, begin making

furniture or appliances while waiting for

preparations. Take an inventory of your

your old ones to be delivered, or while shop-

belongings and note their condition. If the

ping for new items that will fit your new

moving company performs their own inven-

space perfectly.

tory, check it carefully against your own before signing anything. Should any of your belongings arrive with scratches, dents or other damages, photographs will help verify a claim so consider taking pictures of valuable items or making a video inventory before the movers arrive.

It is important to be sure you will be at your new home on the date the moving company is scheduled to deliver. If no one is home to receive the delivery, your belongings will go into storage, and the moving company may require payment in cash before unloading.

Some companies specialize in renting furniture to newcomers and offer packages by the household, the room or by the piece. They also offer different styles, along with accessories such as artwork, lighting, rugs and indoor plants. Flexible lease terms, quick delivery and professional setup and removal are some of the services offered by rental companies.

If you decide you like a particular item or items, purchase is usually available.

FORWARDING MAIL To submit your change of address go to www.usps.com. The USPS can hold your mail, forward or accommodate a change of address.

Be aware that many moving companies

Tax deductions may apply to your move so

fall behind schedule, so consider hiring

keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S.

LEGAL RECORDS

a moving company that will guarantee a

at 800-829-1040 or www.txdmv.gov, or ask

pickup and delivery date. Make sure those

your tax preparer or attorney.

Legal Records maintained by Fort Bend County include birth certificates, death

60

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

certificates,

marriage

licenses,

automo-

bile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings,

DBAs,

taxes,

and

more.

Contact the county of residence for specific

Select electricity, natural gas, local phone and long distance, cable or satellite television, and high-speed Internet services at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

a number of these districts throughout

GAS

Fort Bend County and services vary by district. Contact your local city or HOA for detailed information.

services offered.

The Fort Bend County Court House

CenterPoint Energy is the major provider

TELEPHONE, CABLE, AND INTERNET SERVICE

is

Heimann

for natural gas in the greater Houston

The Greater Houston area has four area

Circle, Richmond, TX, 77469. Phone:

and Fort Bend County area. As the

codes: 713, 281, 832, and the newest,

281-342-3411. www.fortbendcountytx.gov

regulated utility in the Houston area,

346. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing

CenterPoint Energy owns and maintains

is required. The many telephone service

the electric delivery system as well as

providers to choose from also offer satellite

sells natural gas. Visit CenterPointEn-

and cable television services, along with

ergy.com to learn more. The ENERGY

bundled services, special promotional rates

STAR program supports energy effi-

and discounts for newcomers.

located

at

1422

Eugene

SERVICE AND UTILITIES ELECTRICITY Retail Electric Providers compete to sell

ciency in new homes. Learn more about

electricity, allowing consumers to compare

buying an ENERGY STAR home at

plans, pricing and features. The Public

www.houstonenergystarhomes.com.

Utility Commission recommends the three

CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS Consolidated Communications is a leading

WATER AND SEWER

business

compare, and choose. Allow several days for

Water, sewage and drainage services are

tions provider serving customers across its

the order to process. If establishing service

typically provided by the public works

11-state service area. Consolidated provides

for a new home or building, a permit or

department in each city, or by a munic-

advanced

inspection may be required.

ipal utility district (MUD). There are

business and residential customers across

“C’s” before selecting a provider: contact,

and

broadband

communication

communica-

solutions

to

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HOUSTON SW - MISSOURI CITY, TX

We here at Holiday Inn Express and Suites are so excited to be apart of the Missouri City/Sugar Land community. In keeping with Holiday Inn Expresses award-winning standards we opened our doors on September 18, 2018 to be centrally located from the business community, exciting entertainment venues and some of the finest shopping and dining Texas has to offer.

Our staff are here and ready with stellar service to genuinely greet guest with a smile and a commitment to anticipate guest needs even before arrival. Our employees are engaged to always deliver the highest regards of respect, integrity, honesty and service.

IHG has created a rewards program that is second-to-none for our members to book, earn and redeem points across over 5,500 hotels throughout the world. Plus, we’re adding our own touch, join our Facebook page and drop your business card off and your entered in our 10,000 rewards points drawing each week.

So, pack your bags, our doors are open and breakfast is hot. We have 84 sleeping rooms and 2 meeting spaces to accommodate your next event or meeting. We are located right off Highway 6 and Colonial Lakes Dr, Missouri City, Texas

RESERVATIONS CALL: 281-969-8650

EXPRESS ESSENTIALS We’re big on the little things. Like Wi-Fi, coffee and tea, and all the in-room conveniences that make you feel right at home, even when you’re away.

EXPRESS RECHARGE Power up while you power down. Bedside outlets, a plush duvet, your pick of pillows, and a quiet place to settle in means you’ll get some solid shut-eye.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

61

R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

their fiber-rich network, which extends

METRO also operates High Occupancy

Texas law requires that the driver and front seat

across California, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas,

Vehicle (HOV) lanes on U.S. 59 South and

passenger wear seat belts. Children eight years

Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Penn-

I-10 West, along with toll lanes on I-10

of age or younger or less than 4 feet nine inches

sylvania and Texas.

West. To share a ride, contact the METRO

tall must be secured in an approved car seat.

Carpool Matching Service, 713-635-4000.

Texas also has a mandatory automobile liability

Founded more than a century ago, the company is dedicated to turning tech-

Fort Bend County also offers express

nology into solutions, connecting people

commuter park and ride services from lots

and enriching how their customers work

in Sugar Land and Rosenberg to the Texas

and live. Consolidated prides itself on deliv-

Medical Center, Greenway Plaza and The

ering a better experience by putting their

Galleria. Go to www.fortbendcountytx.gov

customers’ needs first; building a stronger

for information.

community through employee volunteerism and company giving; and evolving and innovating to meet and exceed the needs and expectations of their customers.

Visit www.consolidated.com or call 844-YOUR-CCI (844-968-7224).

TRASH PICKUP Many municipalities, such as Sugar Land and Katy, provide trash pick-up. Call the solid waste department in your jurisdiction to find out which day garbage and light trash are collected.

insurance law, and if a driver is stopped for any reason, proof of liability insurance coverage will be necessary. The insurance required must provide: $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000 per person per accident and $25,000 property damage. A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is available at www.dps.texas.gov.

The Fort Bend County Toll Road Authority operates all or part of three toll roads: the

VOTING

Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road, the Grand

Texas voters must be 18 years old and register

Parkway Toll Road and the Westpark

at least 30 days prior to an election. Those

Tollway. Details are at www.fbctra.com.

already registered to vote but who change precincts need to file an address change. For

The Harris County Motorist Assistance

information, go to | www.votetexas.gov. In

Program (MAP), sponsored in part by

Harris County, call 713-368-VOTE. In Fort

METRO, helps motorists experiencing car trouble on Houston area freeways. The specially marked MAP vehicles are equipped to handle minor automotive emergencies.

OWNING A VEHICLE

Bend County, call 281-342-3411 or visit www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS For emergencies only: dial 911.

For non-emergencies: dial 311.

Many subdivisions opt to contract with local

New residents must obtain a Texas driv-

collection companies, and fees for these

er’s license within 30 days of establishing

services are typically included in the home-

residency. Texas residents moving to a new

The Fort Bend County Sheriff ’s Office has

owner’s association dues. Contact your

address within the state must update their

jurisdiction in those parts of the region

homeowner’s association for information.

license as well.

that lie in Fort Bend.

Curbside recycling is offered in most neigh-

To obtain a Texas driver license, take proof

Active Crime Watch programs operate in

borhoods, and drop-off recycling centers are

of registration, proof of insurance, a Social

numerous neighborhoods, and another

located throughout the area.

Security card or a current W-2 form, and

very valuable program known as Crime

a valid out-of-state license to the nearest

Stoppers accepts anonymous tips and

Department of Public Safety office. For

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

license requirements including fees and locations, visit www.dps.texas.gov.

offers rewards for information leading to an arrest. Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers 281-342-TIPS (8477)

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of the

Vehicles may be registered for license

Gulf Coast region, also known as METRO,

plates at district field offices in the county

PETS

is recognized as one of the best and safest

of residence. The cost is based on the

In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing

bus systems in the nation offering an exten-

model and year for cars and gross weight

licenses

sive system of bus routes and a growing

for trucks. Subsequent registration may

impounded. Dogs and cats in Texas must

network of light-rail lines.

be handled by mail or in person. Motor

be vaccinated against rabies by four months

vehicle registration renewals may be

of age. Boosters are given one year after the

METRO provides Park & Ride services

purchased at various locations. In Fort

initial vaccination, and pets will need to be

from two locations in Missouri City. Visit

Bend County, call 281-342-3411 or visit

vaccinated at one- to three-year intervals

www.ridemetro.org for details.

www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

depending on local requirements. 

62

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

and/or

on

a

leash

can

be

CONNECT FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 Fort Bend County..www.fortbendcountytx.gov County Courthouse.....................281-342-3411 301 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469

Kendleton...................................979-532-8240

Public Works Department...........281-261-3921

Lamar Consolidated ISD............281-341-3229 3911 Avenue I Rosenberg, TX 77471 www.lcisd.org

Stafford Centre...........................281-208-6900

City of Meadows Place www.cityofmeadowsplace.org

Stafford Municipal School District.......................................281-261-9200 1625 Staffordshire Road Stafford, TX 77477 www.staffordmsd.org

Animal Control..........................281-342-1512

City Hall ....................................281-983-2950 One Troyan Drive Meadows Place, TX 77477

Central Appraisal District............281-344-8623

Fire Department.........................281-261-3995

Child Support.............................281-342-6222

Police Department......................281-983-2900

City Hall.....................................281-275-2700 2700 Town Center Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479

County Attorney.........................281-341-4555

Public Works Department...........281-983-2961

Fire Department.........................281-275-2873

County Clerk..............................281-341-8685 County Judge..............................281-341-8608

Missouri City..............www.missouricitytx.gov

Sugar Land.................... www.sugarlandtx.gov

Police Department......................281-275-2500 Public Works Department...........281-275-2450

District Clerk..............................281-341-4515

City Hall.....................................281-403-8500 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, TX 77489

Drainage District........................281-342-2863

Fire Department.........................281-403-4300

Engineering................................281-633-7500

Police Department .....................281-403-8700

Extension Service.......................281-342-3034

Public Works..............................281-403-8570

County Courthouse.....................713-755-5000 1201 Franklin St. Houston, TX 77002

Needville....................................979-793-4253

County Clerk..............................713-755-6411

Needville ISD.............................979-793-4158 100 Fritzella Street Needville, TX 77461 www.needvilleisd.com

District Attorney.........................713-755-5800

District Attorney.........................281-341-4460

Fairgrounds................................281-762-8818 Health Department.....................281-238-3233 Human Resources.......................281-341-8615 Medical Non-Emergency............281-342-7233 Parks Department.......................281-835-9419 Post Office..................................800-275-8777

Thompsons ................................281-343-9929 Harris County............ www.harriscountytx.gov

Fire Marshal...............................281-436-8000 Health Department.....................713-439-6016 Sheriff ’s Department...................713-755-6044

Orchard......................................979-478-6893

Vehicle Registration....................713-368-2000

Pleak..........................................281-239-8504

Voter Registration.......................713-368-2000

Social Services............................281-342-7300

Richmond...................... www.richmondtx.gov

Houston...........................www.houstontx.gov

Tax Assessor...............................281-238-1490

City Hall.....................................281-342-5456 402 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469

City Hall.....................................832-393-1100 900 Bagby Houston, TX 77002

Fire Department.........................281-232-6871

Fire Department.........................832-394-6700

Police Department......................281-342-2849

General Information................................. 311

Public Works Department...........281-342-0559

Police Department......................713-884-3131

Public Transportation..................281-633-7433 Sheriff ’s Department...................281-342-6116

Vehicle Registration....................281-341-3710 Veterans Services........................281-341-4550 Voter Registration.......................281-341-8670 Fort Bend ISD............................281-634-1000 16431 Lexington Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.fortbendisd.com

Public Works Department...........832-395-2511 Rosenberg...................... www.rosenbergtx.gov

BUSINESS RESOURCES

Arcola........................................281-431-0606

City Hall.....................................832-595-3300 2110 Fourth Street Rosenberg, TX 77471

Beasley.......................................979-387-2775

Civic Center................................832-595-3520

Internal Revenue Service.............800-829-1040

Fairchilds....................................979-793-6610

Fire Department.........................832-595-3600

Small Business Administration....713-773-6500

Fulshear.....................................281-346-1796

Police Department......................832-595-3700

State Comptroller of Public Accounts..........................281-371-5500

Public Works Department...........832-595-3960

Fire Department.........................281-391-3500

Fort Bend Chamber....................281-491-0800

Texas Dept. of Economics...........512-936-0101

Katy................................ www.cityofkaty.com City Hall ....................................281-391-4800 910 Ave C, Katy TX 774943

Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500

Simonton....................www.simontontexas.org

Texas Railroad Commission .......877-228-5740

City Hall.....................................281-533-9809 35011 FM 1093 Simonton, TX 77476

Social Security Administration....800-772-1213

Stafford..................... www.cityofstafford.com

CONSUMER RESOURCES

City Hall.....................................281-261-3900 2610 South Main Stafford, TX 77477

Texas Taxpayers and Research Association..................512-472-8838

U.S. Customs .............................713-387-7200 U.S. Dept. of Commerce.............202-482-2000

Police Department......................281-391-4848 Public Works Department...........281-391-4820 Katy ISD....................................281-396-6000 6301 South Stadium Lane Katy, TX 77494 www.katyisd.org

Fire Department.........................281-261-3977

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.....................800-638-2772

Police Department......................281-261-3950

U.S. Consumer Information........800-688-9889

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I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

TRANSPORTATION

MOVING TIPS What to do Social Security Number 1-800-772-1213 Information/ Application www.ssa.gov/forms Physical locations: 8989 Lakes at 610 Drive, 77054 16200 Dillard Drive, 77040 5414 Aldine Mail Road, 77039

THINGS TO KNOW Wait 10 days after your arrival to apply for a social security number.

Takes approximately 2 weeks for the card to arrive.

No fee for the application.

Take original or certified copies of immigration documents, passport & biographical information & photo.

64

Texas Drivers License Application & Locations: www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/movingtotexas.htm • Texas has a 90-day grace period.

• A written & driving skills test required.

• C redit cards, cash, checks, and money orders.

• Take your passport, social security number, proof of residency, lawful presence, status.

• Proof of vehicle registry.

• Completed application.

BANKING Credit Unions www.findabetterbank.com • Credit unions are owned by members. If your company has a credit union, you can easily set up an account and get a credit card.

• Social Security number, a photo ID (passport), minimum deposit required.

Banks www.findabetterbank.com • A checking account can be opened individually or jointly.

• A debit card will give you immediate access online and at ATMs. • Social Security number, driver’s license, proof of residence, photo ID (passport), pay stub or utility bill and a minimum opening deposit.

• I nternational banks in the USA include HSBC, Citigroup, Barclays, Deustche B ank and Credit Suisse • A n account at one of these banks can usually be opened in the US.

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

Credit Card www.creditcards.com • Request a credit card & debit card (ATM) when opening a bank account.

• You will need a residential address, phone & place of employment, credit history.

HOUSING Apartment Houston Apartment Association Q&A: www.haaonline.org • Prices for apartments are based on apartment size and number of bedrooms Rates typically include basic utilities (ask for details).

• Rental requirements include: a credit & security check. Texas Drivers license, passport, bank statement, proof of employment, and a deposit.

• Rental applications may require your credit history, employment history, rental history and criminal history, and disclosure of legal status or proof of legal residency.

• You are responsible for your lease for the entire term of your contract.

• If you terminate your lease contract early, rent may be accelerated and additional charges can be levied against you.

• Get any changes to your lease contract or term in writing.

• Be sure to ask about pet deposits.

• Apartment locators will help you find an apartment and their services are free.

Leasing a Home • You might be expected to take care of the yard on a weekly basis, maintain the property and abide by homeowner regulations. Always check lease agreement.

• Leasing a home is much like renting an apartment.

• You will pay all the utility bills (water, power, trash pickup & cable).

• You will need a TX driver’s license, proof of employment, credit & personal references & a deposit consisting of the first & last month’s rent.

Buying a home • You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.

Realtor/Homes for Sale & Lease www.HAR.com • You can check your credit score through your bank.

• To purchase a home you will need a good credit score based on your credit history.

• Report all of your income on your tax return as mortgage loans require proof of income - typically your IRS return.

• You do not need a Realtor to purchase a home, but Realtors are trained to help you with pricing and other legal responsibilities.

• Realtors use various sources including Multiple Listing Service to find homes.

• Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.

visit the Affordable Care Act web page.

• You will need your social security number, passport, health history, employer information, and a credit card.

TAXES

Private Schools

Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25 percent sales tax and property tax only.

• HoustonNewcomerGuides.com • Houstonprivateschools.com • Privateschoolreview.com There are a variety of independent and faith-based private schools in the Houston area.

• Enrollment is most cases is based on openings in certain grades.

• Check with each school for enrollment requirements as they vary from school to school.

• International schools offer the International Baccalaureate program and might be better suited for children planning to later attend university outside the US.

Internal Revenue Service Federal income tax for most workers is filed on April 15 of each year.

There are numerous rules and regulations for expatriates, the following are resources to get you started.

Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov

EDUCATION Day Care: www.childcarecenter.us • Some centers only care for children until they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5.

Other schools offer Kindergarten.

IMMIGRATION VISA

• Will need your child’s birth certificate,

Most questions are answered on the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration web sites below. Contact your Consulate about your country’s requirements.

General How Do I Guides: • www.uscis.gov • www.uscitizenship.info

Employment Visas: • www.travel.state.gov • www.uscis.gov

Green Card: www.uscis.gov/greencard

Permanent Residents: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov

social security number, passport, application.

• Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different times of the day. Ask for referrals.

Public Schools PK-12 Texas Education Association:

www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com Realtors are independent and can help you locate a newly constructed home available from a variety of builders. Builder sales reps. work for the builder. If you are working with a Realtor, you should register your Realtor with the homebuilder when

• Required for children 6-18 years of age

you arrive.

• You can research individual school

Affordable Care Act www.healthcare.gov • If you are relocating to the U.S. for a job, the HR department will assist you with health insurance for your family.

• To shop and compare health insurance

www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools

State of Texas

New Homes/Builders/ Communities

HEALTHCARE

College

tea.texas.gov in USA. • Child’s birth certificate, passport, social security number, transcript, doctor’s statement.

• The Houston area has excellent public schools which serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade. districts, schools, ratings and test scores at the Texas Education Association web site.

Elementary school (grade 1 through 5 or 6), Middle school or junior high (up to grade 8 or 9), High school or senior high (up to grade 12).

PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.texas.gov • Dogs & cats must be vaccinated by 4 months of age followed by booster shots every couple of years.

• Pets not wearing license tags and/or leashed can be impounded.

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PLACES OF

WORSHIP If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should easily be able to find a spiritual home in the Fort Bend area.

In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, and access to groups with common interests. If you are looking to make new friends, a congregation might be the perfect place to find them.

66

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

The Fort Bend area has hundreds of churches and places of worship, some of the churches have huge congregations while others have a hundred or fewer. All of them welcome newcomers through their doors.

Bridge Fellowship - 281-494-3046 802 Brooks Street, Sugar Land, 77478 Calvary Church - 281-634-0200 12410 Sugar Dale, Stafford, 77477 Christ United Methodist Church 281-980-6888 | 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479 Cornerstone Community Bible Church - 281-313-8555 4771 Sweetwater #137, Sugar Land, 77479 CRM City Fellowship Church 281-313-1213 | PO Box 17538, Sugar Land, 77496 Crossbridge Church - 281-313-8300 1049 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478 www.crossbridge.cc Fellowship of Love Church 281-497-1971 | 10223 Clodine Rd., Richmond, 77407 First Colony Church of Christ 281-980-7070 | 2140 First Colony Blvd., Sugar Land, 77479 First Presbyterian Church of Sugar Land | 281-240-3195 502 Eldridge, Sugar Land, 77478 First United Methodist Church Missouri City | 281-499-3502 3900 Lexington Blvd.

Missouri City, 77459 www.fumcmc.org

Fort Bend Church - 281-980-8322 P.O. Box 1057, Sugar Land, 77487 www.thebend.org

Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church 281-342-2989 | 303 N. 10th Street, Richmond, 77406

Fort Bend Community Church 281-499-2131 | 7707 Highway 6, Missouri City, 77459

Redeemer Sugar Land 281-751-8639 | 109 Industrial Blvd. #E Sugar Land, 77478

Fort Bend Family Church 281-495-7377 | 12220-K Murphy Rd., Stafford, 77477

River Pointe Church 281-277-6767 | 5000 Ransom Rd., Richmond, 77469 www.riverpointe.org

Forty Holy Martyrs of Sebaste Orthodox Christian Church 281-240-4845 | 340 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478

Southminster Presbyterian 281-499-2310 | 2310 Brightwater Dr., Missouri City, 77479

Freedom Center Church 281-499-0594 2303 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459 www.thefreedomcenterchurch.com Grandview Fellowship Church 281-961-3378 | P.O. Box 19025, Sugar Land, 77496 Greatwood Community Church 281-491-5588 | 13333 Southwest Freeway, #280, Sugar Land, 77478 Heritage Baptist Church 281-403-4994 | 2223 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459

Sugar Grove Church of Christ 281-530-9651 | 11600 W. Airport Meadows Place, 77477 Sugar Land Baptist Church 281-980-4431 | 16755 S.W. Freeway, Sugar Land, 77479 Sugar Creek Baptist Church 281-242-2858 | 13333 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land 77478 www.sugarcreek.net

Holy Angels Lutheran 281-937-0151 | 810 Bent Knoll Court, Sugar Land, 77479

Sugar Land Methodist Church 281-491-6041 | 431 Eldridge Rd. Sugar Land 77478 www.sugarlandmethodist.org

Holy Cross Episcopal Church 281-633-2000 | 5356 West River Park Dr Sugar Land, 77479

The Freedom Center 281-499-0594 | 2303 FM 1092, Missouri City, 77459

Holy Family Catholic Church 281-499-9688 | 1510 Fifth Street, Missouri City, 77459

The Lighthouse Church 832-867-4571 | 6650 Rankin Rd., Humble 77396 www.lhhouston.church

Hope Christian Fellowship 281-243-9110 | 4800 Sugar Grove Bldg. #290, Stafford, 77477

First United Methodist Church Sugar Land - 281-491-6041 431 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, 77478

Houston’s First Baptist - Sienna 713-865-7670 | 4309 Sienna Parkway, Missouri City, 77459

Fishers of Men Lutheran Church 281-242-7711 | 2011 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, 77479 www.fishersofmen.org

Logos Christian Center & Bible Institute - 713-541-2740 8690 W. Belfort, Houston, 77031

The Freedom Center Church 281- 499-0594 | 2303 FM 1092, Missouri City 77459

Sugar Creek Baptist Church 281-242-2858 | 13333 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land, 77478

Mosaic Community Covenant Church & Learning Center 713-269-4774 | 4427 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479

Triumph Christian Center 281-242-5109 Word of God Ministries 409-549-2626 | 4318 Kylewood Ct., Port Arthur, 77642 Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center 1700 First Colony Blvd Sugar Land, 77479 Hindu BAPS Mandir 1150 Brand Lane, Stafford 77477 Vietnamese Buddhist Center 10002 Synott Road, Sugar Land *Chamber Members in Bold

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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in this section area hospitals major medical facilities dentists

68

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Fort Bend County have grown over the years to meet the healthcare needs of the communities they serve. Patients now have the opportunity to heal closer to home, work and family.

From gleaming full-service hospitals to specialty clinics and emergency care facilities, Fort Bend County offers some of the

MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITIES

best healthcare in the Houston region. The

Memorial Hermann

world-famous Texas Medical Center is only

713-222-CARE (2273)

about 30 minutes from some parts of Fort

www.memorialhermann.org

Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and Quality from The Joint Commission and the National Quality Forum, the nation’s guard¬ians of health and safety.

One of the largest not-for-profit health systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann is

Bend. It’s so close, in fact, that many Fort Bend residents work in this growing complex

Advancing Health in Houston - Memorial

an integrated system that serves South¬east

of hospitals and research institutions.

Hermann has created Houston’s largest,

Texas and the Greater Houston commu-

full-service, integrated health system focused

nity with 19 hospitals*, including four in

on advancing the health of the community.

the Texas Medical Center, a level I trauma

For the system’s 6,000 affiliated physicians

center, a hospital for children, one of the top

and 26,000 employees, it means exercising

two rehabilitation hospitals in the United

uncompromising commitment to deliver

States, an orthopedic and spine hospital.

Thanks to its fast-growing and affluent population, Fort Bend County is home to some of the most modern and comprehensive healthcare facilities in the Greater Houston region. Family doctors and specialists, emergency clinics and several large, award–winning hospitals have built new facilities in Fort Bend County and nearby Southwest Houston. These state-of-the-art

the best health care possible by harnessing leading-edge technology and using the safest methods. For patients, it means having the best tools to prevent health problems as well

facilities offer advanced cardiac care, cancer

as the best chance to regain their health

research and therapy, trauma care, sports

following an illness or injury. It’s no wonder

medicine, and many other innovative treat-

Memorial Hermann is the only Houston

ments. Staff include top ranking physicians,

health system to receive both the National

quality nursing care and highly skilled

Quality Forum’s National Quality Health¬-

support services.

care Award in 2009 and the 2012 John M.

Affiliated with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, the system also operates four Heart & Vascular Institute locations; the Memorial Hermann Mischer Neuroscience Institute at the Texas Medical Center; the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute at four locations; eight Memorial Hermann Joint Centers offering advanced treatment options for joint pain; Women’s Memorial Hermann; Memorial Hermann Life Flight® – one of the busiest air ambulance

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69

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES

services in the United States; the Prevention and Recovery Center for chemical dependency treatment; and a comprehensive array of home health services, rehabilitation centers, outpatient imaging and laboratory services.

The system’s ambulatory care network also includes Memorial Hermann Urgent Care and Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Centers. Using its resources to advance the health of the community, Memorial Hermann contributes in excess of $451 million annually in uncompensated care and community benefit programs, including an award-winning network of public school-based health centers.

Proudly caring for the residents of Sugar Land and Fort Bend County since 2006, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital is the first Houston-area hospital to earn the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation’s highest Presidential honor for performance excel¬lence. To meet the growing healthcare needs of Fort Bend County, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land recently opened a new 155,000-squarefoot patient tower, capping off a $93 million campus expan¬sion and bringing the total bed count to 147. Conveniently located at the intersection of Hwy. 59 and Grand Parkway, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land offers advanced equipment and state-of-the-art technology to address any healthcare need, from birthing services and emergency pediatrics to sports medicine and orthopedics, including the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute.

FORT BEND CHAMBER MEMBERS | DENTISTS Best Dental

281-762-0637 www.bestdentistinhouston.com

BLVD Dentistry & Orthodontics

281-552-8720 www.blvddentistry.com

C & C Dental

281-242-0241 www.cashionandcodyonline.com

Everything Dental

832-847-6677 www.everythingdentalcare.com

Fort Bend Dental Associates, PA

281-499-3541 www.ftbenddental.com

Luxe Dental Arts

281-969-7456 www.luxedentalartrs.com

RiteSmile Dental

281-565-1800 www.ritesmile.net

Sienna Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics

281-778-5355 www.siennamoderndentistry.com

South Peek Dental Care

832-712-2442 www.southpeekdentalcare.com

Sweet Tooth Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics

832-280-4410 www.sweettoothsmile.com

Sweetpea Smiles Practice Solutions LLC

281-566-6100 www.sweetpeasmiles.com

and neonatal ICU, more beds for pediatric patients and space for future expansion. In addition, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land is Fort Bend County’s only pediatric ER designed and staffed to care specifically for children. The hospital’s growing group of affili¬ated physicians with pediatric subspecialty training in gastroenterology, neurology, orthopedics, otorhinolaryngology (ear, nose & throat), pulmonology, urology and sleep medicine ensures children can receive advanced specialty care close to home. *Memorial Hermann Health System owns and operates 14 hospitals and has joint

Area residents can now stay close to home for increasingly complex healthcare issues and receive high-quality care delivered by a highly skilled staff and affiliated physi¬cians spanning more than 65 specialties.

Beyond the expanded ICU and new adult intermediate care unit, there is state-of-the-art equipment, including new diagnostic monitoring systems, to enhance patient care. The expanded Emergency Center further enhances the hospital’s outstanding heart attack care for patients arriving with chest pain. A nationally accredited Chest Pain Center, the hospital has affiliated heart specialists available 24/7 to perform balloon coronary (angioplasty) in its cardiac catheterization lab. Growing families will appreciate the expanded labor and delivery rooms, an expanded nursery

70

ventures with five other hospital facilities.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 281-274-7500 www.houstonmethodist.org/sugarland Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is Fort Bend County’s leading health care provider, offering skilled, compassionate care supported by the most advanced technology – all in a convenient, comfortable and healing environment.

Since opening in 1998, Houston Methodist Sugar Land has continually expanded to add new facilities, services and technology to meet the community’s changing needs.

Today, the hospital’s campus houses:

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

• Three patient care pavilions with 347 beds and 27 operating rooms • Specialized centers for breast care; cardiology and vascular care; emergency care; labor and delivery; neuroscience and spine care; oncology; and orthopedics and sports medicine • Three medical office buildings Houston Methodist Sugar Land also offers a stand-alone emergency center near Sienna Plantation and many specialized physician offices conveniently located throughout Fort Bend County, including primary care offices serving First Colony, Long Meadow Farms, Riverstone and Sienna Plantation.

But what really sets Houston Methodist Sugar Land apart is its patient-centric operational philosophy, one built on a strong sense of mission and a deeply ingrained commitment to Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence – the Houston Methodist I CARE values. These values guide the staff’s daily interactions with patients, family members and each other, as well as provide a strong foundation for their focus on personal, individualized care.

This dedication to serving others – along with innovative technology, training and expertise – is recognized by the many specialized designations achieved over the years. For

example, Houston Methodist Sugar Land the impact that a hospital stay can place on several sessions throughout each day. Anyone is the only hospital in Fort Bend County to 18 or up with an illness/injury will receive friends and family members.

Smoking Safety achieve Magnet Recognition® as a reflection daily medical oversight with physician visits, Smoking only allowed in to specified outside the Patients must always wear wr As is Fort Bend continues grow, andarea health of its nursing professionalism, teamwork care by certified rehab nurses and therapy building. purposes.

Patients must be ac care moves forward, Houston Methodist and superiority in patient care. The Amersessions with specialized speech, occupational

Welcome

Sugar Land Hospital will continue to grow ican Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) member when outside the bu and physical therapists.

Telephones ® and change, too – investing in the communiMagnet Recognition Program distinguishes teams ofthat therapists, nurses, physicians* and It’s our pleasure to rigorous welcome you to Encompass With the 2015 acquisition of Encompass ty’s health and well-being ensuring Telephones are located inOur alland patient rooms.

Payment organizations that meet standards Health Home Health &strive Hospice, Formerly localLand. residents have a support first-class choice for members are thoroughly experienced andpayment p for nursing excellences.

Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sugar We to make Parking HealthSouth remains committed in the medical care. knowledgeable in rehabilitation. We are one of the We’re committed to offering the compassion, Hospital personnel are availa In addition to an outstanding staff, more community and is excited to celebrate this Please contact us if you need special parking arrangements. leading providers of inpatient rehabilitation expertise and support patients and their families families or other responsible Encompass Health Rehab than 1000 top-quality physicians — reprepositive direction for their community. Their

services and maintain the highest safety andand need their rehabilitation goals. procedures www.encompasshealth.com senting to thereach full range of medical specialties leadership wants people to know that requirements the Visiting hours cleanliness standards, all to ensure you receive — combine I CARE values with a level of SugarlandRehab • 281-276-7584 ownership and management of the company We welcome visitors, as they are invaluable in providing Groups You’ll have a rehabilitation expertise, knowledge and skill that isteam secondto provide you remains the same. Support As Encompass Health exceptional care. encouragement and support during your rehabilitation.

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospito none. aboutinour support groups they will not alter theAsk excellence care.

Our with a personalized treatment plan targeting your Weekday are 8:00am to 8:00pm Weekend tals visiting nationallyhours and in Texas have remained employees pride their selves in caring for our We hope this brochure answers any questions you specific needs and goals. This comprehensive Over the years, Houston Methodist Sugar providing a higher level of care visitingcommitted hours areto 8am to 8pm patients in their ownQuestions community and or provide concerns have about your stay.

If you have additional program will have giveachieved you the direction, knowledge Land physicians many of Fort to the communities they serve. highest levels that patients have come to expect. concerns, let us contact know. We’re dedicated toquestions o and to help reach your of outside Bend tools County’s medicalyou firsts, including a highest If you expectlevel visitors of those please hours, please Please share any As a JACHO certified disease specific in-panumber of the most sophisticated surgical your care and look They forward to helping you move physical, social and emotionalarecovery. that our physician, name changeyour will case ma case manager or nurse to make arrangements.

Ourare excited your tient rehabilitation hospital with medical advancements in specialties such as cardicontinue to help “encompass” patient care as forward with your recovery. patients are scheduled for therapy sessions throughout the or the hospital administrator. management specializing in the care of ology and neurology. These developments our company grows in a positive direction. day on weekdays and frequentlyCare on and weekends, so please way we can.

Strokes, Amputations, Wound Hip have allowed Houston Methodist Sugar Land * The hospital provides access to independent physicians. make sure friends and family are aware of your schedule Fractures and other illnesses. They provide Encompass Home Health & Hospice agento offer state-of-the-art, life-saving procedures close to home for Fort Bend patients, reducing 3hrs of therapy days a week broken up into cies in Texas are also set to transition to the when planning their5visits.

New Name

Smoking Smoking is only allowed in specified area outside the building.

Same Commitment

Extended Care

Safety Patients must always wear wristbands for identification purposes. Patients must be accompanied by a staff or family member when outside the building.

Experience Matters

Telephones Telephones are located in all patient rooms.

Parking Please contact us if you need special parking arrangements.

Visiting hours We welcome visitors, as they are invaluable in providing encouragement and support during your rehabilitation.

Support Groups Ask about our support groups.

Weekday visiting hours are 8:00am to 8:00pm Weekend visiting hours are 8am to 8pm

Questions or concerns

If you expect visitors outside of those hours, please contact a case manager or nurse to make arrangements. Our patients are scheduled for therapy sessions throughout the day on weekdays and frequently on weekends, so please make sure friends and family are aware of your schedule when planning their visits.

Payment We strive to make payment procedures as easy as possible.

Hospital personnel are available to meet with patients, families or other responsible parties to discuss billing procedures and requirements.

Please share any questions or concerns you may have with your physician, your case manager, the department director or the hospital administrator. We are happy to assist you any way we can.

Ln. g a r Park

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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES

Encompass Health name. You can contact your nearest location for more information.

Sugar Land Health Center www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com Sugar Land Health Center is a family owned

offer natural treatment for every layer of the body, which addresses the problem area and all the areas effected by the injury. The whole body is connected and with our sophisticated technology and variety of treatment methods they are able to experience breakthroughs in pain relief and in health stronger than ever before.

practice whose mission is to help people find natural healing and pain relief. They believe in serving our community and offering the best to their patients.

The spine is an important and integral part of your body. When pain occurs, they don’t just treat the symptoms and look at it from face value. They look to the cause of the pain and offer treatment to promote long term health. If there’s pain, that’s frequently an indicator that there was a preexisting problem or injury. They

Dr. Steve Harris is a chiropractor who opened Sugar Land Health Center in Sugar Land, Texas, in 1982. Dr. Harris offers chiropractic care, pain relief, spinal decompression, rehabilitation, knee pain relief, joint pain relief, back pain relief, and orthotics. He is also trained in a highly effective and uncommon technique in myofascial muscle work. A humanitarian and philanthropist, Dr. Harris is known for his kindness and compassionate approach. Patients love his caring bedside manner and report successful

results from treatment. Dr. Harris graduated from Logan Chiropractic College in Chesterfield, Missouri in 1976 and has been practicing continuously since that time.

As the first chiropractic clinic in Sugar Land, his goal was to establish a place of wellness and provide healing for the community, and he has continued to strive toward those goals for 40 years. In addition to providing direct patient care, he teaches spinal disc decompression techniques to other professionals in the field and is active in the community, working on various philanthropic and humanitarian projects.

For more information on what we offer for your condition and those in pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Harris, call 281-980-1050. 

FORT BEND CHAMBER MEMBERS | HEALTHCARE AFC Urgent Care

832- 600-8007

www.afcurgentcare.com

Apex Urgent Care Richmond

877-257-2739

www.apexurgentclinic.com

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sugar Land

281 276-7574

www.encompasshealth.com/sugarlandrehab

Full Circle Chiropractic and Wellness Center

832-987-1715

www.fullcirclechirowell.com

Gee Eye Care

281-778-9912

www.geeeyecare.com

Hogan Chiropractic, PLLC

281-240-2225

www.hoganchiropractic.com

Houston Eye Associates

281-565-2020

www.HoustonEye.com

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

281-274-7500

www.houstonmethodist.org/sugarland

Inter-Active Health Care, Inc.

281-892-2000

www.inter-activehc.com

Kelsey-Seybold Clinic

713-442-9100

www.kelsey-seybold.com

Memorial Hermann First Colony Hospital

281-277-0911

www.memorialhermannfirstcolonyer.org

Modern Acupuncture

713-540-6000

www.modacu.com

Modern Spine, PLLC

713-774-6337

www.modernspinetx.com

Next Level Urgent Care

713-732-0944

www.nextlevelurgentcare.com

OakBend Medical Center

281-238-3900

www.oakbendmedcenter.org

RediClinic

833-423-7334

www.rediclinic.com

Solis Mammography

346368-4479

www.solismammo.com

St. Michael's Emergency Rooms

281-980-4357

www.24hrer.com

Sugar Land Med-Ped Clinic, P.A.

281-491-2555

www.sugarlandmedped.com

Sugar Land Primary Care Physicians

832-564-3526

www.slprimarycare.com

Sugar Mill Chiropractic and Acupuncture

281-494-1690

www.sugarmillchiro.com

Texas Oncology, PA

281-277-5200

www.texasoncology.com/sugar-land.aspx

Texas Regional Health & Wellness

281-208-7335

www.texasregionalhealth.com

UT Physicians

713-486-1200

www.utphysicians.com

Westpark Pediatric Dentistry

832-924-7275

www.wppediatricdentistry.com

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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

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Convenient, Quality

PRIMARY CARE Access Houston Methodist primary care at a location near you.

Our board-certified doctors provide personalized care for you and your family — including physicals, immunizations and preventive care — along with access to our network of world-class specialists.

Many of our practices offer: • Convenient locations • Most major insurance plans accepted • Online scheduling • Same-day appointments Visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 281.930.6639 to schedule an appointment.

1093 Long Meadow Farms

59

99

8

Sugar Land

6 Riverstone Sweetwater Sienna SiennaPlantation Plantation

in this section local chamber of commerce major employers Houston by the numbers

74

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

BUSINESS &

COMMUNITY There’s an unparalleled quality of life provided by Fort Bend’s earliest planned communities such as First Colony, Pecan Grove Plantation, New Territory and Greatwood set the stage for the recent wave of economic growth being enjoyed by the county.

Newer communities still under development

hard to attract quality growth. Following are

the thriving economic development in Fort

– including Sienna Plantation, Riverstone,

profiles of some of the most successful and

Bend through its many divisions, including

Imperial Sugar Land and many others – are

effective pro-business groups in Fort Bend.

Education, Infrastructure Planning, Govern-

building on this legacy of quality growth. It’s a truism that both employers and retailers follow rooftops, and no part of the Houston region can boast more educated and affluent residents living under its rooftops than Fort

mental Relations, Community Resources,

AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Business and Professional, Healthcare and Members Services.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce www.FortBendChamber.com

The Fort Bend Chamber was awarded with 5-Star Accreditation by the US Chamber of

Bend County. Since Fort Bend began its

Located in the diverse Fort Bend County,

Commerce for its sound policies, effective

transformation from a largely rural agricul-

The Fort Bend Chamber is the largest

organizational procedures, and positive

tural county into a regional economic and

single county chamber in the Houston

impact on the community. Only about

cultural powerhouse several decades ago,

region and serves as the advocate for busi-

1.5% of the over 7,000 chambers in the

a number of chambers of commerce and

ness excellence in Fort Bend County. The

United States earn this stringent accred-

economic development groups have worked

Chamber creates, enhances and promotes

itation. The Chamber’s prestigious Fort

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75

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

Bend Leadership Forum program produces

FORT BEND MAJOR EMPLOYERS

graduates who serve in leadership positions throughout the county.

LOCAL EMPLOYEES

LINE OF BUSINESS

Fort Bend ISD

11000

fortbendisd.com

Lamar CISD

4500

lcisd.org

Fort Bend County

2941

fortbendcountytx.gov

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

2637

houstonmethodist.org/sugarland

Fluor Corp.

2430

fluor.com

EMPLOYER

Excellence for Nonprofits program builds organizational effectiveness within the county’s philanthropic community. High school students have the unique opportunity to experience how volunteerism and philanthropy coexist to serve the community in the Chamber’s Youth in Philanthropy program. Fort Bend Volunteers provide a countywide calendar of events for the community to serve. The Young Professionals Division ensures that

Schlumberger Technology Corp.

2007

Oak Bend Medical Center

1200

the Chamber is delivering value to the

slb.com

future leaders of Fort Bend County. With the implementation of their Diversity

oakbendmedcenter.org

Action Team and the Get Your Business

Nalco Co. Energy Services Division

1100

ecolab.com/nalco-water

on the Map Google Partnership, “Success

Frito-Lay North America Inc.

941

fritolay.com

the motto of the Fort Bend Chamber that

Texana Center

867

texanacenter.com

Bend as one of the fastest-growing coun-

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital

846

memorialhermann.org/locations/katy

nation’s top 20 counties for economic and

City of Sugar Land

804

sugarlandtx.gov

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital

618

memorialhermann.org/locations/ sugar-land

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce’s

CHI St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital

454

stlukessugarland.com

on local, state and federal issues affecting

Pentair Valves & Controls LP

450

pentair.com/valves

is just around the bend” continues to be plays an instrumental role in shaping Fort ties in the United States, and one of the population growth.

FortBendChamberVotes.com Government Affairs Team advocates and intervenes on behalf of the membership job creation, economic development and the overall vitality of the Fort Bend County region. A key component of this advocacy is

Ben E. Keith Co.

419

benekeith.com

Sunoco Logistics Partners LP

403

sunocologistics.com

Tramontina

400

tramontina-usa.com

Texas Instruments Inc.

375

12201 Southwest Fwy.

NRG Energy Inc.

370

reliant.com

National Oilwell Varco Inc.

350

nov.com

Chart Industries

344

hudsonproducts.com

www.FortBendChamberVotes.com. The goal of this site is to provide voter resources, information on legislative issues and news, and to serve as a vehicle for grassroots participation and connection to elected officials.

AREA ASSOCIATIONS City of Sugar Land Economic Development Office www.sugarlandecodev.com

The Coca-Cola Co. Minute Maid

76

The City of Sugar Land is an award-win-

338

ning community ideally located just 20

coca-colacompany.com

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

miles southwest of downtown Houston.

– ISSUE 1

Sugar Land has achieved its sustainable,

Through its Fort Bend Convention and

economic vitality and ensure quality

strong local economy through an aggressive,

Visitors Services division, the Fort Bend

development in Fort Bend County. It

focused economic development program

Chamber provides visitors and new resi-

provides a wide array of information and

that creates new wealth and jobs. As a

dents with resources that highlight the

free services designed to help businesses

regional employment center, with over 25

many great amenities and attractions in

understand and then act upon the tremen-

million square feet of commercial space, the

Fort Bend County. Under the Chamber’s

dous advantages and opportunities of

City is home to high-profile corporations

banner, the Farmers Market at Imperial

relocating or expanding their commercial

including Minute Maid, UnitedHealthcare,

operates year round and is the largest certi-

operations in Fort Bend.

Texas Instruments, Schlumberger, Fluor

fied farmers market in Texas. The Sugar

Corporation, Noble Drilling, Tramontina

Land Wine & Food Affair attracts about

USA, First Data/TeleCheck, Nalco Cham-

10,000 wine and food aficionados to Fort

pion and Bechtel EO.

Bend each year, making it one of the largest such events in the nation. The Chamber

Sugar Land has also uniquely positioned itself

markets the county’s ever-growing collec-

as a hub for premium shopping, dining and

tions of restaurants, hotels and attractions

entertainment. Venues such as the Houston

to local, regional and national audiences

Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land,

as well as prospective visitors and event

Constellation Field, the future Smart Finan-

convention planners.

the Sugar Land Visitors Center at Imperial Market will further establish the community as a cultural and historical destination.

Fort Bend Convention & Visitors Services www.fortbendchamber.com/about-us

The Grand Parkway Association is a nonprofit state transportation corporation authorized by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in 1984 to facilitate the development of the Grand Parkway, Houston’s third outer highway loop. The Association operates on funds

cial Centre at Sugar Land live entertainment venue, the Sugar Land Heritage Museum and

The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com

received from Fort Bend, Harris, Cham-

Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council www.fortbendcounty.org

bers, Galveston and Brazoria counties, as well as from TxDOT and the Metropolitan Transit Authority. It is governed

The Greater Fort Bend Economic Devel-

by a seven-member board of directors

opment

public-private

appointed by the Texas Transportation

partnership established in 1986 to promote

Commission. The first segment of the

Council

is

a

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77

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

Grand Parkway opened in Fort Bend

HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house here, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help figure out the rest. If you made $53,759 in Denver, for example, your salary could decrease to $41,995 in Houston - and you’d still maintain the same standard of living. See the table below for the results from a sampling of other cities.

MOVING FROM HERE

SALARY

County, connecting U.S. 59 South to I-10 West. The Grand Parkway is now open all the way to U.S. 59 North as part of the vision to create a 180-mile outer loop to serve transportation needs in the Greater Houston area.

Stafford Economic Development Corporation www.staffordtxedc.com The City of Stafford has been promoting economic development for more than 40 years. It was the first municipality in Fort Bend County to do so, resulting in one of

MOVING FROM HERE

SALARY

the strongest and most diverse economies in Texas. The Stafford Economic Development

Phoenix

61,439

New York City

25,910

Corporation was created in 1999 to promote

Detroit

61,826

Los Angeles

41,996

ects enhancing economic development.

Austin

61,375

Chicago

50,705

San Francisco

33,401

Las Vegas

54,455

Boston

40,832

Portland

45,498

Highway 90-A, Stafford’s “Main Street.”

Denver

53,759

St. Louis

63,697

Visit Sugar Land

Miami

52,467

Raleigh

65,105

Pittsburgh

59,757

Cincinnati

64,818

Dallas

61,311

Charleston

58,336

and expand commerce and to finance projTwo of its most noteworthy accomplishments include Stafford Centre, a performing arts theater and convention center, and the major improvements and amenities on U.S.

www.VisitSugarLandTX.com Sugar Land’s tourism program was established in 2011 when the Sugar Land City Council approved a 5-Year Strategic Roadmap for Economic Development which included the establishment of a Tourism Program intended to generate overnight visitation to Sugar Land by attracting meetings, events and leisure travelers to the City.

The mission of Visit Sugar Land Convention & Visitor Services is to increase the number of visitors and their length of stay in Sugar Land in support of retail, service and hotel businesses and to ensure the success of Sugar Land’s existing attractions including Sugar Land Town Square, Constellation Field, the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land and the new state-of-the-art live entertainment venue – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land. 

78

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

LIVE THE GIG

Delivering 1 Gig speed to your home through fiber-to-the-home technology.

Discover new and exciting things the Internet has to offer with CCI! If your home is like most, you have multiple devices tied to one Internet connection in your home.

These devices can be TVs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, printers, home security systems or game consoles. The more devices you have connected to your Internet connection, the more overall speed you need to support them.

Consolidated Communications, Inc. (CCI) offers 1 Gig service*, which is equivalent to 1,000 Mbps, and is among the fastest connections available to residential customers across the nation. The 1 Gig service gives you the freedom to do more.

CUSTOMERS WITH A 1 GIG CONNECTION CAN EXPERIENCE: - Use multiple devices at once without sacrificing speed - S tream movies, download videos and upload photos with virtually no buffering or waiting - Experience online gaming with a fast, stable connection - R un multiple security cameras and use “smart home� technology with remote access to video, locks, lights, thermostat and other household devices -W ork from home with a reliable connection that supports VPN access and video conferencing -W ith no data caps you never have to worry about tracking your usage

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TO FIND OUT MORE PLEASE CALL 844.YOUR.CCI OR VISIT CONSOLIDATED.COM.

ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION

in this section attractions and family fun arts and culture dining & shopping sports and golf year round events

80

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

LEISURE & RECREATION Fort Bend County works hard-that’s how it got to be one of the most prosperous and fastest-growing counties in the nation. But Fort Bend also know how to relax and have fun whether it’s celebrating tradition dating back more than a century, or enjoying new events.

Life is too short to just work; you have

arts, theatre and restaurant scenes offer

Fort Bend County works hard – that’s how

to play too. And in vibrant Houston, fun

exciting experiences every day.

it got to be one of the most prosperous and fastest-growing counties in the nation. But

activities abound, with annual events such as the world’s largest rodeo, the nation’s

One of the best websites for finding

Fort Bend also knows how to relax and

largest renaissance festival and the coun-

out about special events in Houston is

have fun – whether it’s celebrating tradi-

try’s quirkiest event, the art car parade. The

www.visithouston.com, the official site

tions dating back more than a century, or

city’s diverse personality shines through

of the Greater Houston Convention and

enjoying new events showcasing the coun-

with buoyant events like the Chinese New

Visitors Bureau. The website includes a

ty’s many new attractions and diverse

Year, Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth and

visitor’s guide, interactive maps, coupons

ethnic traditions. Fort Bend is a place

GLBT Pride Celebration. It’s often said

and discounts, and itinerary ideas. One of

where a 20,000-acre working ranch with

that Houston doesn’t cherish its history,

its most popular features is the Houston

historic homes and costumed actors thrives

but that’s not the case with traditions like

CityPass, which provides admission to 5

side-by-side with one of the nation’s largest

the 80-year-old Azalea Trail and numerous

of Houston’s top attractions at a substan-

Hindu temples. That’s today’s Fort Bend –

historic home tours. Plus, Houston’s rich

tial discount!

and it’s incredible. 

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81

ATTRACTIONS & Family Fun

Photo courtesy of Smart Financial Centre

The Houston area is an impressive cultural and entertainment center.

It features nine world-renowned performing arts organizations, countless museums and a multitude of activities and outdoor attractions for the whole family.

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FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens www.mfah.org/visit/bayou-bendcollection-and-gardens Bayou Bend, the magnificent home of Miss Ima Hogg, is best known for her superb collection of American decorative arts, innovative architecture, and breathtaking gardens.

The heavily wooded 14 acres (5.7 ha) along Buffalo Bayou include eight formal gardens.

Three of the gardens are named for a statue of a goddess or muse displayed in the garden, Clio, Diana and Euturpe.

Brazos Bend State Park www.brazosbend.org

anywhere. Ditto for the very popular café.

Group tours are available.

Central Green www.willowforkdrainagedistrict.com/ parks-trails/central-green Free outdoor movies, concerts and special events such as an annual children’s festival are offered year-round at this half-acre multipurpose park, surrounded by lakes and restaurants in LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch.

Developed by the Willow Fork Drainage District, Central Green has an outdoor stage, large shady oaks, and outdoor seating around a grassy lawn.

Constellation Field/Sugar Land Skeeters www.sugarlandskeeters.com Root for Sugar Land’s home team as it plays independent professional minor league baseball in this thoroughly modern stadium.

Discovery Green www.discoverygreen.com

Little Blue Heron at Brazos Bend State Park, Texas

This 5,000-acre natural gem features scenic terrain carved by the Brazos River. A nature center is the best place for visitors of all ages to begin their explorations. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking, birding and much more. Located in the park, the Fort Bend Challenger Center is a living memorial to the seven Challenger astronauts who lost their lives in 1986. Summer programs, events and classes are available.

Brookwood Community www.brookwoodcommunity.org Located in Brookshire, just west of Katy, this is a non-profit residential facility and vocational program for adults with disabilities. Brookwood is known for the wonderful ceramics and other gift items made by its residents, and its expansive gift shops and art galleries carry a wide array of unique items.

The garden shop, with plants and flowers grown by residents, rivals the best nurseries

Since it opened in 2008, this 12-acre downtown park has been a hit with Houstonians who enjoy its restaurants, public art displays, dog parks, lakes, and seasonal events including the holiday ice rink. More than 1.2 million visitors come to more than 600 events at Discovery Green each year, including movies in the park, concerts and fitness programs.

Farmer’s Market at Imperial www.imperialfarmersmarket.com Fort Bend Chamber hosts the weekly Farmer’s Market at Imperial located in the parking lot at the Imperial Park Recreational Center. The market features fresh seasonal produce from local farmers, grass fed meats, free range chickens and eggs, local honey, small batch foods and bakery items. Visitors can browse the art from local artisans and try delicious ready to eat food from booths and popular food trucks while listening to the best local musicians.

George Ranch Historical Park www.georgeranch.org

Photo courtesy of George Ranch

Located on a 20,000-acre working ranch, this 460-acre living history park includes historic homes, costumed interpreters and livestock. Tracing history that began in 1824, it is open daily. Special events such as the Texian Market Days Festival and Spring Break activities are offered year round.

George Memorial Library www.fortbend.lib.tx.us The main library in the Fort Bend County Libraries System, this Richmond facility includes an expansive Genealogy and Local History Department that focuses on the southeastern United States. Its archives include material on the South, the Civil War, federal censuses and genealogy.

George Observatory www.hmns.org Enjoy a front seat to the stars in this observatory in Brazos Bend State Park. A satellite of the Houston Museum of Natural Science, it offers precise views of deep space with a recently restored 36-inch telescope.

Hermann Park www.hermannpark.org Arguably Houston’s “Central Park,” this 445-acre park is wedged between the Museum District and Medical Center. In recent years, Hermann Park has received a a major face-lift and additional attractions such as the McGovern Centennial Gardens.

The McGovern Centennial Gardens features 15-acres of rose gardens, an interactive family garden, a 30-foot garden mount,

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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

and a sculpture promenade. Hermann Park is also home to the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Miller Outdoor Theater, a Japanese Garden, train and pedal boats, and a golf course.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center www.houstonarboretum.org Nestled along the western edge of Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and the opportunity to experience the natural world – all in the center of town. Visitors can explore nature by walking on five miles of trails, take classes and visit the Discovery Room and the Nature Shop at the Nature Shop.

Houston Zoo www.houstonzoo.org Aiming to be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife, The Houston Zoo cares for over 6,000 animals, even educating some. Each year, over 2 million guests are enchanted, educated, and inspired as they experience the incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment.

With exemplary animal care in mind, the Zoo provides engaging animal experiences for visitors in multiple seasonal and permanent attractions, like holiday Zoo Lights and the new Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit. The Houston Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive.

Sugar Land Auditorium www.slcaf.org The last remaining public building from the original company-owned town of Sugar Land, this 1918 auditorium was built for the newly established school district. It showed movies and plays, and held dances on the rooftop.

Recently restored to its original splendor, the 394-seat auditorium is available for rental.

Sugar Land Ice & Sports Center www.sugarlandice.com The only dual rink facility in the Houston region, it offers public skating and is home

84

to the Sugar Land Imperials 3HL ice hockey team. During the holidays, the Nutcracker on Ice musical is performed.

scientists and mission specialists at work and in training via live video hookups. The theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature space flight films.

Sugar Land Town Square www.sugarlandtownsquare.com A new pedestrian-oriented downtown for Fort Bend County, this 32-acre “Main Street” development includes shopping, dining, office space and a hotel. The central plaza is a popular gathering spot for residents to enjoy year round festivals and special events.

McGovern Centennial Gardens & Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion www.hermannpark.org

MUSIC+THEATER Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org One of America’s leading not-for-profit theatres calls the Houston Theater District Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing

The McGovern Centennial Gardens is home to a diverse collection of gardens including an arid garden, a rose garden, a woodland garden, an interactive family garden, and more. You can get a bird’s-eye view of it all by walking the spiral path to the top of a 30-foot mount.

in productions of the classics, modern

Moody Gardens www.moodygardens.org

www.fortbendtheatre.com

A tropical destination for families and groups. Explore the all new Rainforests of the World along within the Aquarium Pyramid®, the Discovery Museum & the action of the IMAX® 3D, 4D or Ridefilm theaters. Cruise aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, tee off at the new Moody Gardens Golf Course and relax at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center for an ideal getaway.

friendly productions throughout the year

Space Center Houston www.spacecenter.org

brings first-class entertainment and cultural

plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces

more

performances

than

all

other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District.

Fort Bend Theatre 2815 N. Main, Stafford, 77477

Founded in 1989, this theatre offers family on weekends. The troupe also performs children’s plays for schools and preschools.

Summer musical theatre camps are another popular offering.

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex

Space Center Houston, a $70-million, 183,000 square-foot entertainment and educational complex designed by Disney Imagineering, offers hands-on, space-related experiences to visitors. In addition to a full-size reproduction of the space shuttle, guests can use computer trainers to perform operations similar to the ones the astronauts used to launch a satellite or land a shuttle.

NASA scientists and astronauts give briefings about current activities, visitors observe

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

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is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series.

Houston Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environment, Houston Grand Opera entertains with their innovative programs, community events and educational projects. Houston

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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually.

Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, 77002 www.tuts.com

Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com

A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities.

Founded in 1975 and has been opening doors for locals of all ages to engage in the performing arts. They offer classes for children and adults and hold performances by both local authors and established writers.

The Smart Financial Centre 18111 Lexington Blvd, Sugar Land, 77479 www.smartfinancial.net

Photos Courtesy of Children’s Museum

Grand Opera has a solid reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 56 world premieres and seven American premieres since 1973. Stop in and visit and see why Houston Grand Opera has toured extensively, including trips to Europe and Asia, and is the only opera company to have won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards.

Houston Symphony 615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org The Houston Symphony’s mission is to “inspire and engage a large diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.” By 2025, the Houston Symphony aims to be one of America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestras.

Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the

86

The Smart Financial Centre is a state of the art venue that opened in 2017 with multiple performances by Jerry Seinfeld. The theater has controllable seating that will allow it to expand from 3,000 to 6,400 seats depending upon the desired intimacy of the show. Some of the other Smart Financial Centre tickets include acts like Don Henley, Reba McEntire, The Lumineers, and Steve Martin.

Society for FINE the Performing Arts Jesse H. Jones Hall: 615 Louisiana St, Ste. 100, Houston, 77002 www.spahouston.org The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years.

Stages Repertory Theatre 3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in the region that offers year-round employment for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres.

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

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Wortham Theater Center 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.

MUSEUMS The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com Otherwise known as the “Garage Mahal”, The Art Car Museum is dedicated to contemporary art. It is an exhibition forum for local, national and international arts with an emphasis on art cars, other fine arts and artists that rarely, if ever, are acknowledged by other cultural institutions. Most popular to Houstonians is the annual Art Car Parade.

Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg. www.blafferartmuseum.org Blaffer Art Museum helps the community to engage in contemporary art through exhibitions, publications and public programs.

This art museum is free, and open to the public in an effort to promote participation in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.

Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com

Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center

The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is proud to educate the public and preserve and promote the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America’s Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present. Here, you can find workshops, youth outreach programs and exhibits about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service.

Praised for opening the curious minds of

Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store, Mexican village, puppet show and an infant play area are all under one roof. The fun-filled hands on experience at the Children’s Museum of Houston will not leave anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston 5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org The Contemporary Arts Museum of Houston is an institution dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Patrons of every age will appreciate the collections of work and dynamic exhibitions on display. CAMH also offers special programs and educational opportunities. Admission is Free.

Fort Bend County Museum 500 Houston St., Richmond, 77469 www.fortbendmuseum.org

SHOPPING

198 Kempner St, Sugar Land, 77498 www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org

Brazos Town Center Reading Rd & Us-59, Rosenberg, 77471

children who come to explore, imagine and engage, the Fort Bend Discovery Center is

Colony Square 16762 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, 77479

housed in a repurposed building within the historic Imperial Sugar factory. It is patterned after the Children’s Museum of Houston,

First Colony Mall 16535 Southwest Freeway, Suite 1 Sugar Land, 77479

rated America’s No. 1 children’s museum and a must-do for families in the area.

First Colony Marketplace 3350 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478

The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org

Fort Bend Town Center SWC Fort Bend Pkwy. & Hwy. 6 Missouri City, 77459

The Health Museum is Houston’s most interactive science learning center and a

Fountains on the Lake 12520 Fountain Lake Cir. Stafford, 77477

member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind

and the McGovern 4D Theater.

Highland Square 3219 Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77478

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir. Katy, 77494

in the country. Popular exhibits include: DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion

5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, 77494

www.hmns.org As one of the most heavily attended

Lake Pointe Town Center U.S. 59 at Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479

museums in the United States, the Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) seeks to enhance knowledge and delight in natural science and related subjects. It houses

Missouri City Shopping Center 5950 Highway 6, Missouri City

the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly

Murphy Road Shopping Center 510 Murphy Rd. Stafford, 77477

Center and a fascinating variety of permanent exhibit areas that examine astronomy,

Plaza Shopping Center 2816 Avenue H, Rosenberg, 77471

space science, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and

Riverpark Shopping Center 20030 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, 77479

minerals, Texas wildlife and more.

Proclaimed as one of the best showcases of local history in Texas, this museum in historic downtown Richmond is located in the 1882 McFarlane House – rumored to be haunted! Exhibits trace more than 100 years of history, including the original “Old 300” settlers who received Mexican land grants through Stephen F. Austin. The surrounding Richmond Historical District includes more stately homes, the 1908 county courthouse, and Morton Cemetery-the resting place of many Fort Bend pioneers.

Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land

Sugar Land Town Square Us-59 & Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479

13016 University Blvd, Sugar Land, 77479 www.hmns.org

Town Center Lakeside Us-59 & Highway 6, Sugar Land, 77479

Housed in the preserved historic Central State Farm building – formerly a prison dormitory – this museum includes five permanent exhibit

Williams Trace Shopping Center Highway 6 & Williams Trace Blvd.

Sugar Land, 77479

halls with over 1.5 million objects. Special exhibits bring in some of the best museum offerings from across the U.S. to Fort Bend.

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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org The Holocaust Museum Houston is dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors’ legacy. The Holocaust Museum Houston has a permanent exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers,” as well as other pieces of history.

masonry structure invites visitors to learn

Imperial Sugar Land Events

about events that shaped Texas history.

www.imperialsugarland.com

Sugar Land Heritage Foundation & Museum

Imperial Sugar Land hosts many events,

www.slheritage.org

including a weekly Farmer’s Market on

The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation began as a group of citizens working to preserve Sugar Land’s remarkable history. Today, this organization collects historical artifacts, documents, and photographs for display for the public to enjoy. Exhibits are being designed to highlight Sugar Land’s legendary

The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org The Menil Collection houses both permanent collection and welcomes special exhibitions. Making art accessible to all is vital to their mission, so no admission fee is charged and all public programs are free.

They hope to educate and inspire by being readily accessible to future generations.

The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents its exceptional exhibitions and installations to Houston residents and visitors alike. The Museum has numerous collections that fill the galleries year-round embracing every era of history from across the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou Bend Collection not too far away.

Rosenberg Railroad Museum 1921 Avenue F, Rosenberg, 77471 www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org

past and phenomenal future. The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation is working with

Field. The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center features child-centered learning exhibits & special events, Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Smart Financial Centre Events www.smartfinancialcentre.net This

helped make Sugar Land what it is today to

January 2017 with back-to-back perfor-

continue the growth of the museum.

mances by comedian Jerry Seinfeld. Visit

state-of-the-art

venue

opened

in

their website to see the year’s full calendar of

E V E NTS

concerts, festivals and family friendly events.

Fort Bend Museum Events

Sugar Land Skeeters

www.fortbendmuseum.org

www.sugarlandskeeters.com

The museum offers many popular annual

Sugar Land can watch their very own minor

events, including the Children’s Day Festival in March, Texian Market Days in October, and Candlelight Tours of the historic Moore Home in December.

Fulshear Events & Festivals

hosts

several

season tickets, mini-plans, group tickets,

www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/events popular

events

throughout the year; we encourage you to check the City website, Facebook page, and the Chamber website (for Shamrock Shindig, Freedom Fest, and Festival of Lights), for updates and details as the events draw near.

live at Constellation Field. Skeeters offer

Sugar Land Town Square Events

www.fulsheartexas.gov Fulshear

league baseball team take on their opponents

fundraising and Indicidual game tickets.

Several different events and

festivals are hosted by the city with enter-

San Jacinto Monument & Museum www.sanjacinto-museum.org

88

shine as well as events at Constellation

Sugar Land companies, past and present, that

With indoor and outdoor exhibits including the 1879 Quebec railcar and the 1972 Mopac caboose, this museum traces 160 years of railroad history that’s been vital to Fort Bend. More highlights include model trains, the Garden Railroad and the Whistle Stop Gift Shop. Group tours, special events and private events are held year round.

Site of the battle that won Texas independence from Mexico. The world’s largest

Saturdays 9:00 A.M. -1:00 P.M. rain or

tainment to draw crowds of all ages.

George Ranch Events

From Dancing Under the Stars to Movies Under the Moon, Vino and Vintage Vocals with Vino & Vinyl, Opry on the Square, Sugar Land Town Square hosts a fun event practically every week of the year. Check the website for details.

Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair www.sugarlandwineandfoodaffair.com The Sugar Land Food and Wine Affair is a

www.georgeranch.org

flagship event of the Fort Bend area. The

George Ranch hosts many events through

Wine and Food Affair brings a cultural food

the year, including a Mother’s Day at

and beverage experience right to the Fort

the Park – Tea & Targets, a Juneteenth

Bend area that is second to none. Money

Celebration & Historic Lunch, a Labor

raised at the Sugar Land Food and Wine

Day Backyard BBQ, 34th Annual Texian

Affair benefits a scholarship endowment at

Market Days Festival, Campfire Christmas,

the University of Houston Conrad N. Hilton

Christmas in the Park and much more. Visit

College of Hotel and Restaurant Manage-

their website for details.

ment and the AFWF Foundation. 

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

SPORTS

& GOLF

Fort Bend County offers a wide variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone: couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scenes.

With year-round mild temperatures, getting up and getting out has become a way of life.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

89

L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

PR OF E S S I O N A L S P O R T T EA MS The Houston Astros www.astros.com Part of the West Division of Major League Baseball’s American League, the Houston Astros are on a roll. The Houston Astros hold the 2017 World Series title. Playing in Minute Maid Park, one of the country’s few stadiums with a retractable roof, the team serves up entertaining baseball action at home about 80 times over the course of the season. Fans enjoy gourmet hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex fare and many other delectable choices while enjoying the game. Around the park, many restaurants, clubs and music venues hop, especially on game day.

The Houston Texans www.houstontexans.com Football is huge in Texas and the Texans are huge in Houston. In their 17th season, this

90

Photos Courtesy of the Houston Texans

NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012,

Sunday football is celebrated in NRG

2015, 2016 and 2018 AFC South Division

stadium cheering on the team, tailgating

Champions. Head coach Bill O’Brien has

with friends in the parking lot before and

put together an exciting roster that includes

after the game, at many sports bars around

fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, Deshaun

town, or in front of your own television.

Watson and plenty of new up-and-comers.

Go Texans!

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

The Houston Rockets

Open Cup, fans have lots to cheer about as

www.houstonrockets.com

this team continues to rank well both at home and internationally. The Dynamo play in

The Houston Rockets are the city’s profes-

BBVA Compass Stadium, an architecturally

sional

acclaimed venue, located east of downtown.

National

Basketball

Association

team playing in the Southwest Division of

League Championships. Home games are played at Constellation Field, located in Sugar Land, Texas.

G OL F

the Western Conference. Two-time world

Sugar Land Skeeters

Winters in Houston are mild and temperate,

basketball champions, the Rockets are

www.sugarlandskeeters.com

with the average high in January (the coldest

regular challengers in playoff action and always provide exciting end-to-end action

The Sugar Land Skeeters is an expan-

in the Toyota Center. Many star players

sion minor league baseball franchise and

have passed through the team’s roster over

competes in the Atlantic League of Profes-

its almost-fifty-year history and now James

sional Baseball. The Skeeters play 140 regular

Hardin and the rest have launched the

season games (70 home, 70 away) in the

Rockets back into competitive contention.

Atlantic League, considered the highest level of Minor League Baseball. Atlantic League

The Houston Dynamo

players are “Major League ready” and in the

www.houstondynamo.com

last 16 years, over 600 players have graduated from Atlantic League clubs to Major League

Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Hous-

organizations, making the League a preferred

ton’s Major League Soccer Team. The team

route for experienced players to be scouted by

name is reflective, in part, of Houston: an

Major League Baseball.

month) at 62.9°F and the average low at 43.2°F. There are over 200 days of sunshine, so Houston is a golfer’s paradise.

And there are plenty of places to play in West Houston. A wide range of municipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Fazio. Or watch the professionals grip it and rip it at the nearby Shell Houston Open.

In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA profes-

energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions,

The Skeeters Hold the 2014 Division Cham-

sionals and First Tee Programs are offered

and more recently winners of the 2018 U.S.

pionships and the 2016 and 2018 Atlantic

throughout the greater Houston area.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

91

L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

PA RK S Brazos River Park The Brazos River flows through Sugar Land along a 9-mile corridor. The City has acquired approximately 1200 acres of land along the banks of the river. Ultimately, the City hopes to own almost 3600 acres for parks, open space, and conservation along the corridor. The main entrance to Brazos River Park is located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 59 at the Brazos River. The park is an initial phase of development and include trails, restrooms, and picnic tables with grills.

The Brazos River Park will be developed over many years. Multiple access points along the river will be developed and will be identified as a sub-park within the larger Brazos River Park. The park sites will provide access to trails, play areas, and the river as well as providing restrooms, and picnic facilities. The sub-parks will be connected along the corridor by trails and canoe access.

City Park

Duhacsek Park

Park facilities include a pool, five lighted

This 50-acre park site was donated to the city

baseball fields, a lighted and covered skate

by the late Walter and Virginia Duhacsek.

park pavilion, benches and bike racks, four

This homestead is filled with huge hand-

lighted tennis courts, a playground, batting

grafted pecan trees. It holds the third largest

cages, drinking fountain, grills, benches,

pecan tree in Texas. This facility is available

picnic tables, restrooms, a sand volleyball

for reservations for groups up to 40 people.

area, horseshoe pits, covered picnic shelter,

Located at the intersection of Voss Road and

concession stands and meeting room. The

Old Richmond Road. The facility consists

pool is 25-yards long, ranges 3-12 feet in

of 60 parking spaces, a large pavilion with

depth and has two 1-meter diving boards.

picnic tables and two restrooms.

Cullinan Park

Eldridge Park

Cullinan Park is one of the largest nature

This 43-acre community park is located

parks in the Houston area, and is located in

on Eldridge Road near the West Airport

Sugar Land. Enjoy the wildlife found along

intersection. The park facilities include a

Oyster Creek. Several nature trails allow

community meeting room for 65 people,

visitors to explore the flora and fauna of the

picnic pavilion, restrooms, grills, benches,

park. Cullinan Park is a large magnet for

picnic tables, .40 miles of trails, fishing pier,

varieties of birds, and is a popular birding

concession stand, playground, 10 soccer

spot for many in the area. The park has two

fields, five-acre pond and 500 car parking

large lakes and picnic areas and plenty of

lot. The pond is stocked with bass, crappie

wildlife and greenery to take in.

and catfish.

PRIVATE

PUBLIC

GOLF COURSES

92

Columbia Lakes Resort & Conference Center

979-345-515

www.columbialakesgolf.com

The Golf Club at Cinco Ranch

281-395-4653

www. golfclubatcincoranch.com

Greatwood Golf Club

281-343-9999

www. greatwoodgolf.com

Meadowbrook Farms

281-693-4653

www. meadowbrookfarmsgolfclub.com

Quail Valley Golf Course

281-403-5900

www. golfquailvalley.com

River Pointe Golf Club

281-343-9995

www. riverpointegolf.com

Sienna Plantation Golf Club

281-778-4653

www. siennagolf.com

Brae Burn Country Club

713-774-8788

www. braeburncc.com

The Club at Falcon Point

281-392-7888

www. clubcorp.com

Black Hawk Country Club

281-494-4244

www. bhawkcc.com

Pecan Grove Golf Course

281-342-9940

www. pecangrovecc.com

Riverbend Country Club

281-491-2500

www. riverbendcountryclub.org

Shadow Hawk Golf Club

281-494-3533

www. shadowhawkgolfclub.com

Sugar Creek Country Club

281-494-9135

www. thesugarcreek.com

Sweetwater Country Club

281-980-4653

www. sweetwatercc.com

Weston Lakes Country Club

281-346-1228

www. westonlakes.net

Westwood Golf Club

713-774-3011

www. wwgolfclub.com

Willow Fork Country Club

281-579-6611

www. willowforkclub.com

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019

– ISSUE 1

for special events. The stage area of the park can be reserved for private functions.

First Colony Park

Lost Creek Park

This 22-acre park is the site of a 3,000 square

This 21-acre park includes seven soccer fields

foot conference center. This park contains

(6 youth- 4 lighted, 1 adult- not lighted, 2 prac-

seven lighted and two unlighted baseball

tice fields) for youth and adults, a large play

fields, batting cages, three concession stands,

structure for children from 2 to 12, a meeting

a playground, drinking fountains, grills,

room which can accommodate 40 people,

benches, 368 parking spaces, restrooms,

a covered picnic pavilion with a concession

picnic tables and picnic pavilion.

stand, restrooms, and parking for over 300

Sugar Land Memorial Park

Located adjacent to the Imperial Park

track offering youngsters and teens another

Recreation Center, this 44-acre park is the

way to stay active outdoors can be found at

home of the Sugar Land Girls Softball Asso-

Lost Creek Park. This three-mile hike and bike

ciation. The park facilities include parking,

trail is accessible from Lexington Blvd., Dulles

nine softball fields, batting cages a nine-hole

Ave., and Hwy 6. In addition to the Greenbelt

disc golf course, playground, picnic area,

trail, a water feature with rock lined falls and a

drinking fountains and restrooms. Disc golf

pond is constructed near the Hwy 6 entrance,

is similar to traditional golf. Instead of a ball

adjacent to Oyster Creek. Emergency call

and clubs, however, players use a disc, or

boxes exist along Oyster Creek Trail. This

Frisbee. The nine-hole course located in the

facility includes: 78 parking spaces, 5 picnic

southern, undeveloped portion of the park

tables, drinking fountain, grills, benches and

winds through existing trees. Golfers must

public art elements. Restroom facilities are

The 420-acre park is located along the Brazos River between U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard with the park entry at the intersection of Commonwealth and University Boulevards. Included in the first phase are two and a half miles of 8-foot wide granite gravel walking/jogging/biking trails, 2 picnic pavilions, restroom buildings, parking areas, playground, dog park, Justin P. Brindley mountain bike trail, open space for sports activities and a lake. The lake is stocked with Large Mouth Bass, Bluegill and Channel Catfish. Visitors may fish in the lake with a valid fishing license. Consult your local tackle shop or Texas Parks and Wildlife for license information and bag and size limits. The park is home to the Veterans Memorial Remembrance Tower. This is a unique and iconic feature of the park. It includes the names of Sugar Land soldiers

bring their own discs.

available and a stage/amphitheater covering

killed while in active duty. 

vehicles. The three-mile Oyster Creek Trail Imperial Park & Disc Golf Course

is accessible from Lost Creek Park. a .9-mile lighted loop trail circles the park site. A BMX

GOLF | TENNIS | FITNESS | POOL | DINING

It Just Keeps Getting Better

JOIN NOW

and take part in the reinvention of Sugar Creek Country Club CALL TODAY TO INQUIRE ABOUT OUR LIMITED AND TIME SENSITIVE MEMBERSHIP INCENTIVES

After renovating all 27 holes of golf, Bistro 72 Renovations, adding our Hickory Stick Bar, Grill and Patio, renovating the pool area, banquet facilities and locker rooms, we are pleased to announce the completion of Phase 2. This Multi Million Investment includes a new Fitness Center, refurbished Tennis Complex, Brand New “Kids’ Quarters” and Installing Better Billy Bunkers on the final 18 holes.

(281) 494-9131 | TheSugarCreek.com HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

93

Delicious

DINING SCENE The Fort Bend area attracts many diners seeking culinary delights locally and from around the world. Here’s a list of restaurants that are members of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce:

Aling’s Chinese Cuisine 281-242-0432 www.alingschinese.com Another Broken Egg 832-886-4857 www.anotherbrokenegg.com Avenida Brazil Churrascaria Steakhouse 281-277-9292 www.avebrazil.com

Bellagreen 281-565-1175 www.rugglesgreen.com Big 6 Bar B Que LLC 713-530-8268 www.Big6barbque.com BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse 281-242-0400 www.bjsrestaurants.com Bombay Pizza Express 281-277-4992 www.facebook.com/bombaypizza Brookwood Community 281-375-2100 www.brookwoodcommunity.org Buffalo Wild Wings - Sugar Land 281-313-9464 www.buffalowildwings.com Chick Fil A 832-632-8800 chickfilasiennacrossing.com Chick-fil-A at Missouri City 281-261-7100 www.cfamocity.com Chick-fil-A at Stafford 281-564-0062 Chick-Fil-A Sienna Crossing 832-632-8800 chickfilasiennacrossing.squarespace.com Churrascos 832-532-5300 www.cordua.com Chuy’s 281- 277-0156 www.chuys.com Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill 281-313-3144 www.fadiscuisine.com Fish City Grill 281-494-3474 www.fishcitygrill.com Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen 281-470-7900 www.gringostexmex.com Italian Maid Cafe & Catering 281-341-1587 www.italianmaidcafe.com

94

FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Jason’s Deli 281-565-3737 www.Jasonsdeli.com Jimmy John’s 281-265-0808 www.jimmyjohns.com Kelley’s Country Cookin’ 281-277-3367 www.kelleysrestaurant.com La Cocina Mexican Restaurant 281-238-0872 www.lacocinarestaurant.com La Escondida Mexican Grill 281-403-3306 www.LaEscondidaGrill.com Louisiana Fried Chicken 346-309-2768 louisianafamousfriedchicken.net Lupe Tortilla - Sienna Plantation 281-771-1101 www.tex-mex.com López Mexican Restaurant 281-686-3094 www.vivalopez.com Malawi’s Pizza 281-709-6235 www.malawispizza.com

Michelle’s Kitchen 346-309-4090 www.michellekitchen.com Muscle Maker Grill 281-725-1705 www.musclemakergrill.com Nothing Bundt Cakes 281-491-2253 www.nothingbundtcakes.com

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Southwest Houston 832-928-5897 www.raisingcanes.com Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Sugar Land 281-980-9860 www.raisingcanes.com Sleek Chocolatier and Cafe 281-207-9687

Off the Vine Bistro 281-242-4186 www.offthevinebistro.com

Spring Creek Barbeque 281-499-8222 www.springcreekbarbeque.com

Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza 281-494-0747 www.papamurphys.com

Taco Bell 281-491-4329

Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza 281-778-8227 www.papamurphys.com Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 281-565-2727 www.perryssteakhouse.com Piada Italian Street Food 614-288-8366 www.mypiada.com

Taco Cabana 281-740-5305 tacocabana.com Texas Biergarten 281-778-0030 The Swinging Door 281-342-4758 www.swingingdoor.com Zoes Kitchen 281-277-6215 www.zoeskitchen.com

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

95

ad index CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION SERVICES

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce..................................... 9

HAR.com............................................................................... 77

CHURCHES First United Methodist Church Missouri City....................... 29

EDUCATION British International School of Houston.............................. 43 Calvary Episcopal Preparatory.......................................... 42 Fort Bend Christian Academy............................................ 45 Fort Bend Independent School District.............................. 40 Fusion Academy Sugar Land............................................. 41

Keller Williams Southwest..........................36-37, Back Cover RE/MAX Cinco Ranch..................................................... 30-31 RE/MAX Legacy Living......................................................... 23

HOTELS Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Missouri City ....................... 61

MUNICIPALITIES City of Meadows Place....................................................... 15 City of Rosenberg................................................................ 17

Houston Community College....................................... 49, 51

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS

Primrose School of First Colony........................................... 47

First Colony Community Association.................................. 20

Wharton County Junior College............. Inside Front Cover

FOOD & BEVERATE Big 6 Bar B Que .................................................................... 95 San Luis Spirits Distilling Co. LLC.......................................... 85

HEALTHCARE

Johnson Development.......................................................... 1 Kingdom Heights.................................................................. 21 Pomona By Hillwood Communities...................................... 5

RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.............................. 25 Houston Rockets................................................................... 91

Encompass Health............................................................... 71

Schlitterbahn ....................................................................... 35

Houston Methodist Primary Care Group........................... 73

Sugar Creek Country Club.................................................. 93

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land........................................... 7

Sweetwater Country Club.................................................. 90

MD Anderson Cancer Center.............................................. 3

UTILITIES

Sugar Land Health Center....................... Inside Back Cover

Consolidated Communications......................................... 79

To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

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Chiropractic | Chronic & Acute Pain | Disc Problems | Pre-Post Surgical Cases | Weight Loss 3425 Hwy 6, Suite 101, Sugar Land TX 77478 | info@sugarlandhealthcenter.com | www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com | @sugarlandhealthcenter

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