January 2012 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition

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Business and Personal Taxes Show Me The Money - By Alan Sandersen Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter Data Beat Information

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Ron ReynoldsShines At Serving All

Volume 30 • No. 1 January 2012T H E B U S I N E S S L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

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Top-Ranked Cardiovascular Care Offered Close to Home

Houston’s first free-standing heart hospital, the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest, is celebrating its fifth anniversary this month and continues

to offer its patients the most innovative technology along with the highest quality of care. The Institute was recently named one of the 50 Top Cardiac Hospitals in the United States. *

New Procedure for High-Risk Patients with Aortic Stenosis

When blood rushes through the heart and surrounding blood vessels, it makes noise. But although all hearts make sounds, not all heart sounds are normal. Unusual heart sounds are called heart murmurs. Specialists affiliated with the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest can identify the source and cause of a patient’s heart murmur based on its location, quality and timing.

“Our team of dedicated professionals determines if these murmurs are benign or life-threatening. Each patient has the benefit of a complete case review and receives our evaluation as to a proper course of treatment,” says Luis Echeverri, M.D., a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon affiliated with the Institute.

Symptoms of dangerous heart murmurs may include shortness of breath, chest pain, weakness and palpitations. You should seek further evaluation if you experience these kinds of symptoms and have a history of heart murmur or aortic stenosis, or a family history of heart murmurs and heart disease.

The highly skilled team of affiliated cardiac specialists approved to perform the TAVR procedure at the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest includes Johanna Higgins-Clowney, M.D., Devang Patel, M.D., Robert Baldwin, M.D., W. Carter Grinstead, M.D., Earl Mangin, M.D., and (not pictured) Luis Echeverri, M.D.

(Larry Pullen Photography)

A multidisciplinary team affiliated with the Institute was recently chosen as one of the few teams in the country, and the only hospital in Houston outside the Texas Medical Center, approved to perform an innovative procedure for patients who suffer from critical aortic stenosis but are not eligible for traditional, open-heart surgery.

“The approval of this device for patients with severe aortic steno-sis who are not candidates for open heart surgery is a tremendous advancement in the field of medicine,” says Earl Mangin, M.D., a board-certified cardiologist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. “I believe that this procedure will allow these pa-tients a low-risk alternative therapy that should improve their quality of life tremendously. We are all genuinely excited to be one of only a handful of sites selected to offer this landmark procedure for patients at Memorial Hermann Southwest.”

To find out more or to determine if you are eligible for this cutting-edge procedure, please call us at 1.855.5.MURMUR.

*As part of the Memorial Hermann Hospital System

Red Wine and Dark Chocolate EventUniversity of Houston at Sugar Land14000 University Blvd. at U.S. Highway 59Thursday, February 236 – 8 p.m.

Grab your friends for a fun evening as we discover what makes your heart tick with experts affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land hospitals. Join us as we reveal how to live a heart-healthy lifestyle:

• Make over your heart through advice from expert physicians• Eat healthier with tips from a registered dietitian• Enjoy a sampling of heart-healthy appetizers while enjoying red wine and dark chocolate

Light appetizers, door prizes and free blood-pressure screenings will also be available.

The event is free but space is limited. To register, call 713.222.CARE (2273).

ON THE COVER

Fort Bend/Katy

Volume 30 • Number 1 • January 2012

For subscriptions send check for $25 to Fort Bend Business Journal

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written permission from the publisher.

State Representative District 27

Ron Reynolds

Monthly Departments

Special Feature

Cover Story

Inside Stories

Monthly Columns

pg.32

CONTENTS

Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLSCommercial Real Estate DiscussesCommercial Tracts at 59 and University Now “On the Market” .....41

Brian CovaultBusiness Resources

DiscussesLocal Resources to Help Your Business Grow .....................39

Chad EllisLaw and Business

DiscussesMediation – Success Depends on the Mediator .............................37

Alan SandersenTax SmartDiscusses“Show Me The Money” - What If Your Tax Refund Check Did Not Appear? ................19

Ron ReynoldsShines at Serving All

Sugar Land Home & Garden Show coming to Stafford.........................................................8West Oaks Mall to receive $24M facelift..................................................................................10Everyone’s Looking to Cleaner Air............................................................................................14Whole Foods & Stein Mart select Katy....................................................................................22Dave Scott at helm of Brazos River Authority........................................................................36Fort Bend signs MOU in China..................................................................................................48Star Video Studios resume production....................................................................................59Big Shots - Fort Bend Bar Association & Richmond State Supported Living Center.......60

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter...................................................23-30Newsworthy.......................................................................................................42-45Name in the News.............................................................................................46-47Data Beat...........................................................................................................50-53 Service Directory...............................................................................................56-58Dining and Entertainment.................................................................................62-64

PUBLISHER ...................................Beverly Carter

GENERAL MANAGER............Michael Fredrickson

EDITOR ..........................................Sharon Wallingford

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ..................Mary Doetterl

MARKETING

CONSULTANTS ............... Jennifer Pappas-Blancas

Diane Strehl

Ann Sturrock

Patty Tristan

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

SPECIALIST ........................................Becky Hall

CONTRIBUTORS ........................Wayne Chandler

Elsa Maxey

ART DIRECTOR ................................Joey Belleza

GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB ............Carlo Arcillas

Business & Personal Taxes.........................................................17

Fort Bend Business Journal • January 20124

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Jacqueline Baly ChaumettePresident and CEOBaly Projects, LLC

Editor’s Preview

The Editorial Advisory Board

Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLSManaging Director – Colliers International | Fort Bend

Tim StubenrouchPresident First Community Bank

Contact:

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John WhitmoreWhitmore Company

Becky MunnellPresident and CEOBlue Jungle Marketing

Dee KochGrant OfficerThe George Foundation

Alan SandersenCertified Public AccountantSandersen Knox & Co. L.L.P.

by Sharon Wallingford

2012: A year of challenges and possibilities

A happy new prosperous year to everyone. What will it bring? Surely, something good and wonderful for everyone. In our partnership with Fort Bend county as a whole there is little doubt we will continue to be strong, global and growing.

It’s an election year on the national, state and local levels. The Chinese New Year

begins on January 23. It brings us the Year of the Dragon and the year 4709 on the Chinese calendar. We will also be observing National Thank You Month, National Volunteer Blood Donor Month and for those of you who recently received Nooks and Kindles, it is also National Book Month.

Our adjoining neighbor - Houston - topped 6 million people for the first time last year. According to various news sources and projections, the Greater Houston population will continue to grow by 3.5 percent or better so we remain the fifth-largest metropolitan area in the country, ranking under New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Dallas-Fort Worth. Philadelphia is expected to also pass the 6 million mark this year. So what about challenges and possibilities? I think they are in our face.

This month, our issue brings you multiple topics and business interests. We hope you will read with gusto about State Representative Ron Reynolds and all the action he has taken on our behalf.

We have some business, health and personal tax tips so you can restart an action plan for another 365 days. Restart your gardens and restock your landscaping after you attend the upcoming Sugar Land Home & Garden Show at Stafford Centre.

This will be the year we will be challenged about water, green energy, clean air, healthcare and education. Read about our local representation on water boards, our possibilities in the classroom, and the unique qualities air brings to medicine as well as our communities.

And again prosperity to all.

Keep the cash registers ringing.

Sharon K. Wallingford


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Three of the many speakers at the Sugar Land Home and Garden Show scheduled for January 21-22 at Stafford Centre are Sugar Land Skeeters Manager Gary Gaetti; Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer Peggy McGowen, and Lisa Giesler, owner A Time and Place for Everything and author of My Life is a Mess: Organizing 101.

Sugar Land Home and Garden Show brings valuable advice from experts and an introduction to the Sugar Land Skeeters manager and staff

The Sugar Land Home and Garden Show is returning to the Stafford Centre, Saturday and Sunday, January 21 and 22 for

its second year of bringing the newest products, technology and ideas for the home. However, there are many more reasons to mark your calendars now, for this must-attend event. The event will offer 200 exhibitors.

Experts will offer valuable tips. “Many people think they can find whatever they need on the Internet, and there is a lot of information. But, there is no replacement for knowledge and expertise to know what to do or how to use that information,” said Peggy McGowen, ASID, CMKBD, award-winning kitchen and bath designer, and one of the speakers at the Sugar Land Home and Garden Show.

Those attending the show will have the opportunity to hear almost a dozen speakers, all with the knowledge and expertise on their subject, plus they will be offering the tips that only experts know from experience. McGowen noted one of her clients found a kitchen sink online and purchased it. It appeared to be the right size and color, and she liked the price. Yet, when it was being installed, there was no room for the faucet, so it could not be used and the client could not return it.

“This is the difference between knowledge and information. On the Internet, it looked like it was the right size, but an expert would have known to look for these details. That is why this show is so important for home owners or future home owners, because they will have the opportunity to hear from the experts and learn the difference between information and experience and knowledge,” McGowen said.

McGowen, who has appeared on HGTV several times and served on advisory councils for industry manufacturers, will be speaking on trends and designs for new and redesigned kitchens, how to develop a realistic budget, how to begin a project, and working with a consultant. She will touch on a

number of different topics and will be available for additional questions after her 45-minute presentation.

Need help organizing? Another speaker slated to draw a crowd is Lisa Giesler, the energized and self-motivated owner of A Time and Place for Everything LLC and author of, My Life Is a Mess: Organizing 101.

“Many people lead chaotic lives and they need help or guidance getting and staying organized. Many simply need to know how to set-up a calendar and learn time management skills so their lives will flow. Some people need help with everything from scheduling their children’s activities when they have three kids going in three different directions to organizing their paperwork and computer files. I’ll cover all of these and more in my presentation,” Giesler said.

Baseball fans will have the opportunity to

meet the Sugar Land Skeeters Minor League Baseball Team’s manager Gary Gaetti, who will be on hand Saturday, January 21 to sign autographs and for pictures with fans. The Skeeters Mascot will also be at the show interacting with fans and signing autographs.

“Fans are invited to bring items they would like for Gary Gaetti to sign, and we will have autographed cards,” said Community Relations Coordinator and Group Sales Representative for the Sugar Land Skeeters Taylor McFarland.

Go green in 2012. Architect, pioneer and building ecologist LaVerne Williams will explain how to approach green homebuilding and remodeling projects. This nationally acclaimed green-building pioneer has the information needed to keep costly mistakes at bay. Exhibits featuring energy efficient and green products, such as cooling and heating options and solar panels will be available.

Other experts at the show include the nationally acclaimed Dr. Lori, with her Antique Appraisals and Comedy Tour; Kathy Huber, Houston Chronicle gardening columnist; Randy Lemmon, host of the KTRH 740 GardenLine radio show; Michael Garfield, the High-Tech Texan and Sugar Land resident; a booth manned by the Fort Bend Master Gardeners; and color expert Catherine Falgoust will discuss the latest trends in colors for your home décor projects. The Swinging Door will provide show concessions.

Electronics recycling and document shredding will be offered on Saturday by CompuCycle.

The Sugar Land Home and Garden Show is at the Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Road in Stafford. Parking is free. Tickets are $9 for adults, $7 for seniors, and children 12 years and younger can attend for free. Only cash is accepted. Times are Saturday, January 21, 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; and Sunday, January 22, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Visit www.SugarLandHomeAndGarden.

com to print out an online discount coupon for $1 off of show admission and a chance to win terrific giveaways. Also, check out exhibitors’ special offers for show attendees.


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West Oaks Mall’s $24 million redevelopment gives regional mall a grand facelift

West Oaks Mall marks a major milestone in its redevelopment with the construction of a new

signature grand entrance and pedestrian plaza consisting of a 14-screen Edwards Theatre and several restaurants, expected to be completed next fall. The construction sets in motion the phased renovation of the mall with significant upgrades and updates to the interior and exterior space.

In addition, Palais Royal, the national fashion retailer owned by Houston-based Stage Stores, Inc. opened in November joining anchor tenants Macy’s, Dillard’s and Sears department stores, among 90 current retailers and eateries. The mall remains open during the entire redevelopment conducted over the next three years.

Owned and operated by Pacific Retail Capital Partners (PRCP), the $24 million redevelopment of West Oaks confirms its position in the Fort Bend-Greater Houston retail scene as a strong regional mall. The area’s projected growth rate of 13.3 percent exceeds the national benchmark rate of 4.2 percent. The rapid growth of Fort Bend county and the reports of the West Houston Association showed the population of the area at 1.48 million last year, almost doubled the population in 1990.

Located on 78 acres at the corner of Westheimer Road and Highway 6 – one of the busiest intersections – with a daily traffic count of approximately 200,000 vehicles, West Oaks Mall is 1.07 million sq. ft. and was opened in 1984.

“We are confident that this significant redevelopment and revitalization of West Oaks Mall will deliver a new and enjoyable shopping experience and entertainment destination for area residents,” said Gary Karl, senior vice president of asset management for PRCP. “There are so many new additions to look forward to including an interactive

pedestrian plaza that will become the mall’s signature area.”

The pedestrian plaza area will be located at the mall’s west wing and will be surrounded by several new restaurants with outdoor café seating. A new Edwards Theatre 14-screen movie multiplex will be the entertainment anchor visible from both Westheimer Road and Highway 6. Construction of the theatre and the plaza areas will be completed by Fall 2012.

New local merchants, national retailers and eateries will also be joining the lineup of almost 100 stores inside the mall to enhance the overall comprehensive shopping experience.

West Oaks Mall serves a landmark in the area. The average household income is $80,000.

The interior of the mall will receive significant improvements with new upgrades in décor, lighting, furniture and other amenities.

Tony Daniel, West Oaks Mall’s general manager, said that the addition of the theatre, restaurants and new merchandisers will fill a

void in the market and reinforce the mall as an attractive community destination.

“West Oaks Mall has always been a place for the community to enjoy and that has not changed,” said Daniel. “During the construction and remodeling, and of course after it is finished, we invite local schools and organizations to think of us as a venue for the many events they host that make this community a great place to live.”

Updates on the redevelopment process will soon be available on West Oak Mall’s website (www.shopwestoaksmall.com) and the mall’s social media channels on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/WestOaksMall) and Twitter (@WestOaksMall).

Pacific Retail Capital Partners was formed in January 2008 by principal Steve Plenge to address opportunities in retail real estate as an owner and manager or as an operating partner. Plenge has more than 25 years of experience in retail real estate acquisition and asset repositioning. Pacific Retail Capital Partners is headquartered in Los Angeles. Additional information is available at www.pacificretail.com.

Extreme mall makeover


Pictured during a recent City Council recognition are Sugar Land City Manager Allen Bogard, ICMA member and Texas City Management Association Region 6 President Brant Gary and Sugar Land Mayor James A. Thompson.

Sugar Land Multicultural Outreach efforts lands national recognition

The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) recently presented Sugar Land with the 2011

Community Sustainability Award for the city’s multi-cultural outreach and education efforts.

Community Sustainability Awards recognize the innovative local government programs or processes that demonstrate innovation, excellence and success in balancing that community’s social, economic, environmental and cultural needs. Sugar Land’s multi-cultural program: Enhances the ability for the City to meet the needs of residents of all cultures and ethnic backgrounds; promotes an understanding of all cultures among all of our residents; and builds opportunities for residents of all backgrounds to share in and be a part of Sugar Land and American traditions.

As part of Sugar Land’s commitment to diversity, the city manager works with the City Manager’s Multi-Cultural Advisory Team and an Employee Multi-Cultural Task Force to implement city-wide initiatives and programs ensuring employees are able to communicate with and serve Sugar Land’s diverse population.

These efforts have included “101” sessions for key staff to learn more about the Chinese, Asian Indian and South Asian/Pakistani communities. As a result, there has been more diverse participation on City task forces, boards and commissions and in community education programs such as the Police Department’s Community Assistance Support Team and the Fire Department’s Community Emergency Response Team.

Other examples of the City’s focus on diversity include: City sponsorship of events such as the Fort Bend Education Foundation’s International Festival; staff participation in the Texas Dragon Boat Association’s Regatta; the Sugar Land’s Cultural Kite Festival; the Police Department’s Chinese Hotline; Arab/Muslim Police Cultural training for police officers; safety brochures printed in Asian languages; and expanded publications and other communications tools, including emergency communications and a translation tool for the City’s website.

“The City is very proud of the recognition this program has received from

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ICMA, as well as the U.S. Conference of Mayors, which also recognized the program with an award in 2011,” said Sugar Land City Manager Allen Bogard.

The International City/County Management Association develops and advances professional local government management to create sustainable

communities that improve lives worldwide. The association provides member support; publications; data and information; peer and results-oriented assistance; and training and professional development to nearly 9,000 city, town and county experts and other individuals and organizations throughout the world.


(L to R): Councilor Dwayne Grigar; RDC Director Allen Scopel; Mayor Pro Tem Tom Suter; Imperial Arts Visual Arts/Education Director Robyn Miller; Imperial Arts Board Member Nancy Olson; Imperial Arts Founder and Executive Director Edward Crowell III; Rosenberg Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr.; RDC Chairperson Bill Knesek; Imperial Arts Board Member Ed Crowell, Jr.; and Imperial Arts Marketing Director Erin Newbrand

Rosenberg’s historic downtown district may obtain arts center by 2012

I n a special public meeting held in December at Rosenberg City Hall, the Rosenberg Development Corporation (RDC) heard a proposal

from Imperial Arts (IA) to make Rosenberg’s historic downtown district a destination for arts and culture.

If approved as presented, a partnership between RDC and IA would establish the Rosenberg Arts Center by Spring 2012, a restored historic Cole Theater by Fall 2013, and recognition of the historic downtown district as a sanctioned “Cultural District” by the Texas Commission on the Arts by the end of 2013.

The RDC Board expressed enthusiasm and interest in moving forward with this proposal, and directed staff to continue to develop specific details related to a formal partnership with IA.

Edward Crowell III, Imperial Arts’ Founder and Executive Director said, “This is going to be an exciting journey with lofty goals to be accomplished in a short time period. With the support of the RDC and the City of Rosenberg and with Imperial Arts’ talent and experience, this will become a reality and bring community, commerce and tourism to downtown Rosenberg.”

In attendance at the meeting were members of the RDC Board, including Rosenberg Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr.; Imperial Arts’ staff and board members; and Matt Fielder, Rosenberg Economic Development Director. The audience included representatives from the Downtown Merchants of Rosenberg; the Art League of Fort Bend; the Rosenberg Railroad Museum; downtown Rosenberg property and business owners; and former Rosenberg Mayor Joe Gurecky.

Economic Development Director Matt Fielder said, “We’re excited about the opportunity to have continued investment in our historic downtown and to preserve the Cole Theatre as a Rosenberg landmark. This partnership promises to bring new

opportunities for cultural arts to our community, as well as be a magnet to draw people to Rosenberg from other areas. I believe it will be a important boost to the businesses downtown and on Avenue H.”

The development plan presented by IA consists of three major phases: First, establishment of the Rosenberg Arts Center in historic downtown, offering a variety of live performances, films, art exhibits, and arts education programming; second, the re-opening of the historic Cole Theater, restored to its historic art deco-style glory, offering major productions of professional opera, theatre, concerts, films, art exhibits, and community events; and third, the designation of historic downtown Rosenberg as a “Cultural District” by the Texas Commission on the Arts – with museums, shops, landmarks, the Rosenberg Arts Center, and the restored Cole Theater as important components of community, commerce, and tourism.

Imperial Arts is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit professional arts organization, developing and

producing the full range of performing arts visual arts and arts education in Greater Fort Bend County, as the resident professional arts organization of Fort Bend County since 2008. For more information, go to www.theimperial.org, or contact Edward Crowell III, Executive Director, at [email protected] or 281.277.7444.

The Rosenberg Development Corporation was established through public referendum as a “Type B” Economic Development Corporation in 1995 and is allocated one-half cent of the City’s sales tax proceeds to invest in projects that promote or develop new or expanding business and commerce, create jobs, and improve the quality of life in the community. The RDC Board of Directors meets on the second Thursday of each month. The public is encouraged to attend these meetings. RDC meeting agendas are available online at www.ci.rosenberg.tx.us, or at www. rosenbergecodev.com.

For more information, please call 832-595-3330.


Methodist Sugar Land Hospital (MSLH) has been recognized for outstanding performance in achieving 100 percent compliance in all of its 26 core measures for third quarter, 2011. Core measures are national

standards that compare the quality of care that hospitals give patients. MSLH is committed to consistently delivering quality health care

using proven therapies. It follows core measures developed by The Joint Commission, the country’s primary accrediting body in health care. These measures have been shown to improve outcomes of patient care in four categories: heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care improvement.

Its 100 percent compliance rate means all 294 patients within these categories received 100 percent of the recommended treatments known to get the best results for patients with certain medical conditions, or surgical procedures.

Chief Nursing Officer Janet Leatherwood said it’s rare for a large hospital like MSLH to achieve 100 percent compliance in core measures. However, MSLH’s Quality Management Department identifies patients early in their hospital stay, and continuously monitors their progress to ensure they are receiving the best care with its Daily Quality Rounds program. “We work diligently with nurses, case managers, therapists and other care providers to review every patient, every day,” Leatherwood said. “This daily review helps us quickly address any issues and reinforce overall compliance. It’s a significant time and resource commitment, but it’s a model that is successful for us.”

MSLH is already recognized as a health care leader, and with this latest achievement of 100 percent compliance in all of its core measures raises its composite performance to 97.5 percent for the most recent 12 months, and reinforces MSLH’s continued commitment to innovate, improve and provide every patient with the highest quality of care.

Core Measures Team

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital achieves exceptional compliance in national patient care standards


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Aahh…take a deep breath. It seems that everyone is out to allow us to breathe easier and healthier.

The Environmental Protection Agency, environmental groups and even Fort Bend County’s major coal-fired power plant are about to do more than blow proverbial smoke about toxic air. Environmentalists, in particular, are saying that it’s about time.

The talk about air, water and ground pollution has been heating up for the past

couple of decades. But last December 16 the EPA mandated significant reductions in mercury emissions, zeroing in on coal-fired energy producers throughout the United States. In Texas, most of the couple of dozen targets are in northeast Texas, with the huge W.A. Parish plant in Thompsons in southwest Fort Bend getting some scrutiny, too. Parish not only burns lower sulphur coal, but also has nitrogen oxides (a key ingredient in ozone) pollution, both due to federal mandates. Spokesmen for the owners of the Parish plant, the major NRG Energy conglomerate, say that they been spending a lot of money on clearing the air for a long time, and have specific projects under way right now to do a lot more.

Prior to the EPA edict, three major national environmental groups made a major announcement about their study, and ranked states and power companies who, they say, are the dirtiest. Their decisions were based on information which the various power plants had provided. Texas was cited as the fifth biggest polluter in the nation, and a plant at Mount Pleasant, in northeast Texas , was rated among the dirtiest dozen coal-fired plants in the U.S. The Parish plant was not mentioned by this report.

Ilan Levin, a native Houstonian, who now is associate director of the non-profit Environmental Integrity Project, said, “The only thing more shocking than the large amounts of toxic chemicals released into the air each year by coal and oil-fired power plants, is the fact that these emissions have been allowed for so many years. For decades, the electric power industry has delayed cleanup and lobbied against public health rules designed to reduce pollution. But the technology and pollution control equipment necessary to clean up toxic emissions are widely available and are working at some power plants. There is no reason for Americans to continue to live with

unnecessary risks to their health and to the environment.”

Levin, a Bellaire High School and University of Texas graduate now living in Austin, said that he wasn’t speaking as harshly about the Parish plant which he never has visited. Levin said that his conversations with NRG representatives have always been pleasant ones, and that he was aware that NRG was abiding by federal mandates regarding use of low-sulphur coal.

But Levin said that EIP’s study of coal-fired plants throughout the nation has shown that there frequently is significant land and water pollution, in addition to the toxic air, around these plants.

While Fort Bend has only this major Parish plant, Levin noted that toxic air from coal-fired plants as far away as Victoria and San Antonio , at times, can affect Fort Bend air.

While Levin stressed that these environment listings of the dirtiest states is “merely a snapshot,” and that Texas, Number 5 overall, was rated Number 1 in rankings for emissions of mercury and selenium. Mercury emissions are a major EPA target. Levin said that Pennsylvania is considered , by far, the worst with major emissions of arsenic and lead. Ohio was second , and also emits a lot of mercury and selenium. Indiana and Kentucky, respectively, were third and fourth.

Levin said that these new EPA mandates aren’t expected to caused shutdowns or layoffs.

“On the contrary,” Levin said, “these new cleanup efforts will create thousands of jobs throughout the nation.”

NRG spokesman David Knox said “We are proud of the emissions reduction that we’ve done at the Parish plant and all of our

By Wayne Chandler

Everyone’s looking to clean Fort Bend’s air


1201 Brooks Street • Sugar Land, TX 77478281-494-MOST (6678) • MethodistOST.com

The MOST Complete ORTHOPEDIC CARE for FORT BEND COUNTY

Christopher K. Smith, M.D. Adult & Pediatric OrthopedicsJeffrey B. Wood, M.D. Diseases & Deformities of the SpineKenneth M. Renney, M.D. Sports Medicine Mark W. Maffet, M.D. Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Sports MedicineCarl A. Hicks, M.D. Joint Reconstructive SurgeryTimothy C. Sitter, M.D. Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Sports MedicineRay R. Valdez, M.D. Foot & Ankle Anthony J. Muffoletto, M.D. Diseases & Deformities of the SpineDavid A. Braunreiter, M.D. Sports Medicine Eddie T. Matsu, M.D. General OrthopedicsVincent C. Phan, M.D. Hand & Upper Extremities

Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of TexasMethodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) physicians are recognized as some of the finest board-certified physicians in the specialty of orthopedics. They provide comprehensive, world-class orthopedic care under one roof right here in Fort Bend County — from sports medicine to joint replacement, hand and wrist to ankle and spine care. They perform on a higher level, so you can, too.

Same day appointments available. Call 281-494-MOST (6678) or email [email protected].

Go to our website now to make an appointment by using your

smartphone QR reader.

different alternatives but we do not anticipate any plant closures or layoffs.”

Separately, Knox noted NRG is working with the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a carbon capture project which would collect 90 per cent of carbon dioxide (CO2) through the flue gas procedure. This demonstration facility is expected to be operational in 2015. This procedure then could be applied to coal-fired plants throughout the world, he said.

NRG already is in the wind and sun business, too. It owns 450 megawatts of wind generation in West Texas and the two largest photovoltaic solar fields in California, and another large solar field In New Mexico near El Paso.

With natural gas being abundant and clean, Knox said that NRG noted that while “fuel switching is theoretically possible, ” it would make a significant capital investment to allow these units to run on a different fuel at a probable lower generating capacity.

Power plants are only a part of the pollution problem, but there are a lot of people working on reducing it.

plants…as an example, based on a multi hundred million dollar investment made on our plants in early 2000, we reduced our nitrogen emissions by 90 per cent.”

Knox said that complying with new

Cross State Air Pollution rules “ will be difficult but we anticipate that we’ll increase scrubber efficiency, fuel switching to lower sulphur coal, and additional blending with lignite… we are continuing to evaluate


http://www.methodist.com

“One goal of this clinical trial is to determine the effectiveness of this new technology at reducing bacterial contamination of surgical incisions,” said Rabih O. Darouiche, M.D., VA Distinguished Service Professor in the departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Medicine, and Surgery and the study’s principal investigator.

procedures that entail implantation of prostheses will be eligible for study enrollment.

“Should the study yield promising results, the research conducted at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center could lead to a breakthrough in addressing infection prevention in the operating room environment,” said Darouiche.

Awarded re-designation for Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Services in 2008, the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center serves as the primary health care provider for more than 130,000 veterans in southeast Texas. Veterans from around the country are referred to the MEDVAMC for specialized diagnostic care, radiation therapy, surgery, and medical treatment including cardiovascular surgery, gastrointestinal endoscopy, nuclear medicine, ophthalmology, and treatment of spinal cord injury and diseases. The MEDVAMC is home to a Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Clinic; Network Polytrauma Center; an award-winning Cardiac and General Surgery Program; Liver Transplant Center; VA Epilepsy and Cancer Centers of Excellence; VA Substance Abuse Disorder Quality Enhancement Research Initiative; Health Services Research & Development Center of Excellence; VA Rehabilitation Research of Excellence focusing on mild to moderate traumatic brain injury; Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center; and one of the VA’s six Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education, and Clinical Centers.

Including the outpatient clinics in Beaumont, Conroe, Galveston, Houston, Lufkin, Richmond, and Texas City, MEDVAMC outpatient clinics logged almost 1.3 million outpatient visits in fiscal year 2011. For the latest news releases and information about the MEDVAMC, visit www.houston.va.gov.

Using Air to Blast Away Infection

A s a result of a $1.2 million award from the National Institutes of Health, the Michael E. DeBakey VA

Medical Center (MEDVAMC) is initiating a pilot study of a novel device to determine its ability to reduce bacterial contamination and decrease the incidence of surgical site infection after surgical procedures requiring insertion of prostheses.

“This randomized, controlled clinical trial will investigate the incidence of surgical site infection occurring after hip arthroplasty, vertebral fusion, and femoral-popliteal grafting procedures performed over a two-year period,” said Rabih O. Darouiche, M.D., VA Distinguished Service Professor in the departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Medicine, and Surgery and the study’s principal investigator.

Surgical site infections are a serious postoperative complication affecting almost 500,000 patients annually. In particular, infections occurring after surgical implementations of prostheses cause severe illness and the cost of treatment can reach $100,000 per incidence.

Most infections occurring after surgical implantation of prostheses are caused by microorganisms that become attached to the implants at the time of surgery. Research published in peer-reviewed journals indicate that a common source of these bacteria are skin cells shed by operating room personnel into the airborne environment that settle onto the surgical field.

“The Air Barrier System is intended to shield surgical sites from airborne contaminants in the operating room by creating a localized ‘cocoon’ of ultraclean air surrounding incisions. This prevents the intrusion of airborne contaminants by

sweeping them away,” said Darouiche, who is also the founder and director of the Center for Prostheses Infection at Baylor College of Medicine.

“The ABS is currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in hip surgery and does not interfere with the procedure.”

During a Phase I Clinical Study published in the Journal of Arthroplasty, the ABS reduced the presence of bacteria at incision sites during hip arthroplasty by 84 percent as compared to the ambient air present in surgical theatres.

The goals of this clinical trial are to determine the effectiveness of the ABS at reducing bacterial contamination of surgical incisions and detect trends in the rates of surgical site infection between the experimental group that uses the ABS versus the control group that does not.

Veterans undergoing orthopedic, neurosurgical or vascular surgical


Business & Personal Taxes

Special Feature

19901 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land

281.207.5485

•.Investment.Services•.Portfolio.management.based.on.your.risk.assessment•.Fee-only.variable.annuities.....(no.up-front.commissions.or.surrender.charges)•.401(k)./.403(b).portfolio.management•.401(k).plan.development.and.benchmarking•.Comprehensive.wealth.management

Paul.B..Jackson,.CFA,.CIPMPresident

[email protected] www.centurionadvisors.net

Centurion Advisors Corp. offers the following services:

Investment.Advisory.Services.offered..through.Centurion.Advisors.Corp..

[email protected]

Comprehensive Accounting Solutions for Businesses and Their Families

Alison E. WilkinsCertified Public Accountant

Accounting, Tax & Litigation Support


http://www.drbilliemartin.com

Special Feature: Business & Personal Taxes

Providingfee-only services

to individuals, familiesand businesses since 1996.(281) 634-9400 • www.wjinterests.com

I t’s a new year and another opportunity to contribute to your tax-deferred savings accounts. When you contribute to your 401k, IRA or

other tax-deferred savings account, the government is essentially matching your contribution at your marginal tax rate and your contribution grows tax-free until it is distributed. Whether you qualify to make a tax-deferred contribution in 2012 is dependent on many factors - an experienced

and qualified financial advisor can help you determine your eligibility and maximum contribution amounts.

Each year, the IRS updates (and generally increases) contribution limits. Contribution rates will remain unchanged for 2012. Below are the contribution limits:

The ‘Bush tax cuts’ extend through 2012. This means that capital gains and qualified dividends rates will remain at 0 or 15 percent, depending on your tax bracket.

Also, as part of the law changes, 401k

balances can now be rolled directly into Roth 401(k) accounts. These accounts require you to make after-tax salary deferrals, but withdrawals are tax-free. Your age, tax bracket and expectation for future tax rates should all be considered when deciding whether to make traditional or Roth contributions to your 401(k) account.

WJ Interests is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm in Sugar Land. For more information, please contact us at [email protected] or 281-634-9400.

Now is the time to contribute to your tax-deferred savings account

Account Type Max Salary Deferral Additional Deferral if Over 50 Maximum Total Deferral All Defined Contribution $17,000 $5,500 $22,500Plans (401k, 403b, etc.)

SIMPLE IRA $11,500 $2,500 $14,000

Traditional And $5,000 $1,000 $6,000Roth IRA


Tax Accountants • AuditorsConsultants to Business

• Taxation • Tax Controversies• Litigation Support • Audits of Commercial and Governmental entities• Construction Companies

130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478

281.242-3232www.sktx.com

Our professionals proudly serveFort Bend & the Greater Houston area.

Member: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Alan Sandersen

Y O U A N D Y O U R T A X E S

Tax Smart By Alan SandersenSandersen Knox & Co. L.L.P.

“Show.Me.The.Money”.–.What.if.your.Tax.Refund.Check.did.not.appear?“Show Me The Money” – What if your

Tax Refund Check did not appear?The Internal Revenue Service recently

announced that it has $153.3 million in un-delivered tax refund checks for 2010 waiting to be sent to 99,123 taxpayers nationwide. That could mean as many as 1,000 to 2000 in the Houston area at an average refund of $1,547.

This is not an isolated event. Lost, stolen and undelivered checks are an annual ritual for the IRS. You can still claim your refunds, though, as easily as by contacting the IRS on its website or maybe with a little help from your accountant. Again, with the average size of an undelivered refund check this year at $1,547, this could be a nice shot in the arm.

If you believe your refund check may have been inadvertently returned to the IRS as undelivered you should use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool at www.irs.gov. The tool

will provide the status of your 2010 tax refund and, in some cases, instructions on how to resolve the delivery problems with the IRS and the local post office.

If you are not connected on the web, you can still check on the status of your still-pending refunds over the phone where you will receive instructions on how to update your address as well. The telephone version

of “Where’s My Refund?” is at 1-(800) 829-1954.

Remember, the IRS never contacts you via email, although plenty of scammers will try to. Those nasty emails can cause all sorts of problems, so avoid them. Do not be curious and open them either because they can contain various virus and spyware bugs.

You can avoid the potential hassles of lost checks by e-filing and receiving your refund by direct deposit. You can deposit your refund in your bank or savings account, multiple investment accounts, or you even buy a savings bond for future needs such as a college fund. About 80% of filers access one of more of these features.

Alan Sandersen is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is a Partner with Sandersen Knox & Co, L.L.P., Certified Public Accountants. He can be reached at 281-242-3232. www.sktx.com. H


http://www.sktx.com

http://skcdocs.com/blogsktx/?p=851

Special Feature: Business & Personal Taxes

Clients. People. Knowledge.

The term bottom line is used in many contexts these days. To us, your bottom line isthat place where you have achieved your most sought after objectives that are uniqueto you, your business, and your family. Because they are a top priority to you, they area top priority to us as well. We would enjoy a no-obligation, initial discussion aboutyour bottom line. For more information, give us a call at 713-621-1515 or visit www.null-lairson.com. We would welcome the opportunity to become a part of your team.

HOUSTON SUGAR LAND GALVESTON COUNTY

Your bottom

line is

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Null-Lairson, PC plans for 2012

Late last year we mailed to clients and friends of the firm the 2011 Year-End Tax Planning Guide. Some of the planning techniques

we discussed are relevant throughout the year. I discuss them below as “TIPS”. If you

would like to receive a copy of the planning guide or talk about planning for your business or personal taxes, please contact any of our offices.

TIP #1 – Reasonable compensation for S corporation shareholder/employees – This continues to be a hot issue since no

payroll or self-employment taxes are paid on flow-through income derived from ownership of the S corporation. As a result there is an incentive for shareholder/employees to set compensation levels low, and sometimes the IRS doesn’t agree. We can assist you to set appropriate salary levels while maintaining desired benefits

TIP #2 – Estate and gift taxes – Under current rules which expire after 2012, an individual has a $5 million unified exclusion covering the estate’s value plus any taxable gifts made during the decedent’s life. The estate tax that applies to the excess is 35%. This current $5 million exclusion amount is scheduled to drop to $1 million for gifts made and for estates of individuals dying after 2012, and the top estate and gift rates increase to 55%. As a result, serious consideration should be given to making gifts of assets during 2012, including annual exclusion gifts of up to $13,000 per donee, which can be made without using any of the lifetime exclusion amount.

TIP #3 – Cost of Health Insurance – A couple of years ago Congress passed rules which require employers to include information about the cost of an employee’s employer- provided health insurance costs on the W-2. The language of these provisions is tricky and has resulted in a widespread (and fortunately incorrect) belief that such costs were going to be taxable. They might be some day, but to clear up the confusion, the reporting is for information purposes only – it does not cause the premiums to be taxable to the employee.

Steve Metzenthin, CPA, CFP, CVA Shareholder, Null-Lairson PC

Steve Metzenthin is a Shareholder with Null-Lairson, PC, one of the largest locally-owned accounting firms in the Houston area. Null-Lairson’s Fort Bend County office is located at 2150 Town Square Place, Suite 290 in Sugar Land. For more information contact Steve at 281-242-8600 or visit www.null-lairson.com.


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Congratulations to Corey Gurney, a student at Fort Bend Christian Academy, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for January! Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development, presents the $1000 check. Gurney is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, French Club, French Honor Society and is the French Club Chaplain. He also participates in athletics and has been a member of the varsity football and baseball teams. In addition to academic and athletic participation, Gurney actively volunteers and has performed 95 hours of service through mission trips and local causes including the Special Olympics and Second Mile missions. Gurney will attend Texas A&M University where he plans to study Biomedical Science to become a veterinarian. Gurney was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed below.

Corey GurneyCONGRATULATIONS!



A Sugar Land Tradition...Renewed

For information on membership options, contact Kelly Buettner in our Sales and Marketing office today!281.494.9131 x134 • www.sugarcreekcctexas.com420 Sugar Creek Boulevard

Lance LaCour, John Clinkscales, and Woody Mann Jr., council chairman.

New Katy shopping center: A prelude for 2012 news

W hole Foods and SteinMart will anchor a new 20-acre shopping center on the southeast

corner of the Grand Parkway and Fry Road in 2012, another significant indication that the Katy area will stay ahead of national economic progress this year.

The new center will be across the Grand Parkway from the first Grand Lakes Marketplace project which currently features Hobby Lobby, H.E.B., and more than a score of other shops and restaurants, according to John M. Clinkscales, marketing representative for Fidelity Realty Partners.

“We have been negotiating with Whole Foods for a a long time,” Clinkscales said, “because we feel that they will be a welcome addition to the

Katy area. “We anticipate a Thanksgiving Day opening for the entire center,” he said. There are 122,439-square feet of business space available, with 38,000-square feet available to small shops. Verizon, Carraba’s , Menchie’s and Massage Heights already have committed to this center, he said.

President and CEO of Katy Area

Economic Development Council Lance LaCour commended Fidelis for this venture, in stating that he believes “the best year is coming” for Katy. LaCour said that 2012 will be “a fantastic year” for Katy, hinting that several major announcements will be forthcoming in the next few months. He praised fellow staffers and all of the KAEDC leadership for its successes in 2011.

LaCour also announced that the council will be moving “across the road” by April, to some 3,000-square feet of space, doubling its current size. The KAEDC will be leaving the Katy ISD Education Support Complex when it moves to the Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union building at 438 FM 1463 in Katy. LaCour said that the expanded space will include a much-needed conference room.

January 2012 • Fort Bend Business Journal 23www.FortBendChamber.com

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State of the City

MayorJames Thompson

City ManagerAllen Bogard

January 27, 2012

Presented by

Sugar Land Marriott Town Square16090 City Walk - Sugar Land

7:30 am - 9:30 am

For more information please contact Farrah Gandhi at 281-566.2152, Fax: 281-491-0112 or [email protected]

or visit www.FortBendChamber.com

Sugar Land

STATE OF THE COUNTY

Friday, February 10, 201211:30 am - 1:00 pm

Safari Texas Ranch11627 FM 1464

Richmond, TX 77407

Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert

Fort Bend County in 2012 with Judge Bob HebertPresented by:

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Fort Bend Business Journal • January 201224 www.FortBendChamber.com

The following firms have realized the importance of economic growth and development for the Fort Bend County area. They have pledged their support to the cause by investing their time and efforts in the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Please support your community by calling on these organizations when you have a need for products and services.

Membership

Welcome New MembersAlphaGraphics Sugar LandRandy Nicholson, Owner10581 S. Highway 6Sugar Land, TX 77498832-495-9194Printers

Architecture Studio 88Robert White, Principal9800 Centre Pkwy, Suite 555Houston, TX 77479832-465-2548Architects

Bodies By Atun Cosmetic SurgerySamira Bush, Patient Coordinator17510 W Grand Parkway S, Suite 500Sugar Land, TX 77479281-232-6700Cosmetic Surgery

College Prep, LLCMegan Dorsey, Owner1118 Oak Glen Ln.Sugar Land, TX 77479832-217-9200Educational Services

Keller Williams SouthwestMarta Mohan, Real Estate Agent1650 Highway 6, Suite 350Sugar Land, TX 77478281-302-5951Real Estate, Residential

M & B AdvertisingMaria Siegrist, Owner11152 Westheimer Rd, Suite 246Houston, TX 77042281-704-7152Advertising Services

Mcatsystems LLCHendry Kunthara, Manager2511 Williams Grant St.Sugar Land, TX 77479281-889-3479Engineering

Nicholson Construction CompanyCheryl Nicholson, Owner29334 McKinnon Rd., Suite ARichmond, TX 77406281-346-2814General Contractors

Nikoz Fusion GrillKarim Pirani, Owner16754 SW FreewaySugar Land, TX 77479281-313-0325Restaurants

PW Stephenson & Co., P.C.Phil Stephenson, Owner 7923 ChiantiSugar Land, TX 77479979-532-5964Financial Services

RegusStephanie Mullis, Area Sales ManagerThree Sugar Creek Center, Suite 100Sugar Land, TX 77478832-335-5574

SERVPRO of Stafford/Missouri CitySusan Meacham, Owner2700 Greens Rd, Suite F 300Houston, TX 77032281-403-2256Restoration - Fire, Water & Mold

Tea Cake FactoryShiren Khaled, Owner2735 N Town Center Blvd.Sugar Land, TX 77479281-565-0966Caterers

Comfort Keepers of Sugar Land and Southwest HoustonDemetrius Flenaugh, Owner14090 SW Freeway, Suite 300Sugar Land, TX 77478281-340-2078Health Care

Delight Dental, PLLCJennifer Chen, Owner3524 Highway 6 SSugar Land, TX 77479281-565-0255Dentists

H-E-B Food & DrugsAnnette Gordon, Community Coordinator530 Highway 6Sugar Land, TX 77479281-491-5173Grocers, Retail

Hogan Chiropractic, PLLCJeff Hogan, President / DC16525 Lexington Blvd, Suite 220Sugar Land, TX 77479281-240-2225Chiropractors

For membership information, contact: Jan-Michael Jenkins 281-491-0218

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SAVE THE DATEUPCOMING EVENTS

January

Business & Professional

2012 Annual BusinessPlanning - Glenn SmithJanuary 12, 2012, 11:30 am- 1:00 pm

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

445 Commerce Green Boulevard,

Sugar Land

UTMB - Regional Maternal & Child Health ProgramCynthia Garza, Clinic Manager14823 SW FreewaySugar Land, TX 77478409-772-5676Health Care

What’s The Deal? Estate Sale FindsAthena Thomas, Owner1401 E. Highway 90A, Suite 300Richmond, TX 77406832-532-9209Retail

Woodley Construction, Inc.Freddie Woodley, Owner4323 Palmer Plantation Dr.Missouri City, TX 77459713-245-9034General Contractors

SAVETHEDATE

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce& Safari Texas Ranch

Chairman’s Gala

Saturday January 21, 2012Safari Texas Ballroom

11627 FM 1464Richmond, Texas

CHAIRMAN’SGALAFORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Chairman’s Gala – 40th AnniversaryJanuary 21, 2012, 6:00 pm

Safari Texas Ballroom

11627 FM 1464,

Richmond

Government Division

Sugar Land State of the City Mayor Jimmy ThompsonJanuary 27, 2012, 7:30 am- 9:00 am

Sugar Land Marriott Town Square

16090 City Walk, Sugar Land

Governmental Relations

State of the County- Judge Bob HebertFebruary 10, 2012, 11:30 am- 1:00 pm

Safari Texas Ballroom

11627 FM 1464,

Richmond

Business & Professional

Leveraging Social Media in 2012February 15, 2012, 11:30 am- 1:00 pm

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

445 Commerce Green Boulevard,

Sugar Land

Governmental Relations

Commissioner Grady PrestageFebruary 29, 2012, 11:30 am- 1:00 pm

Stafford Centre

10505 Cash Rd.,

Stafford

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1 YearA Beautiful Smile @ Lake PointeLance Jue, 281-277-9200

HR in Alignment, LLCMichael Dobert, 281-494-2985

State Farm Insurance / Bowers JrJohn Bowers Jr., 281-242-4800

Resale JunkiesBecki Mulvany, 281-494-9999

MI TECK, Inc.Arif Masum, 713-447-3072

2 YearsTerra Associates, Inc.Vickie Henkel, 713-993-0333

4 YearsWall 2 Wall Insurance ServicesRand R. Wall, 281-313-9255

Century Sienna PlantationMary Compean, 281-778-4800

U.S. Congressman Pete OlsonTyler Nelson, 281-494.2690

Andreason Law Firm, PLLCKurt Andreason, 281-265-1561

Hillwood ResidentialLisa Chahin, 713-609-9219

American Business Women’s AssociationMarilyn Nelson, 713-412-8110

Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott, LLPMichael J. Siwierka, 713-862-1860

Raising Cane’s Chicken FingersAimee Verrette Frederick, 281-980-9860

Milestone Member

Milestone Member

Milestone Member

We Believe in you. Thanks for Believing in US!

10 Years Calvary Episcopal SchoolMalcolm Smith, 281-342-3161

11 YearsSugar Lakes Family PracticeJohn Pozzi, 281-565-2800

Sugar Lakes Family Practice, PAJohn Vanderzyl, 281-565-2800

Fort Bend Symphony OrchestraAmy Floyd, 281-276-9642

12 YearsStarTex Title CompanyDaana Blaschke-Goff, 281-340-7800

Texana CenterGeorge Patterson, 281-239-1300

City of ArcolaMary Etta Anderson, 281-431-0606

Pepperoni’sRaed ‘Ray’ Salti, 281-240-1020

13 YearsPappadeaux’sLance McMillan, 281-240-5533

LaserzoneGary Wilhide, 281-277-2900

14 YearsProcess Resources, Inc.Gloria Staszak, 281-240-0955

Jim Lawless, AIA ArchitectureJim Lawless, 281-240-6101

16 YearsInternet Access Point Corp.Charles Newcomer, 281-242-1001

5 YearsSymphony Inn & SuitesMike Desai, 281-933-5550

Whole FoodsErica Gentry, 281-491-5577

6 YearsBearden Management, Inc.Bud Turner, 281-568-4185

Molina Walker Architects, Inc.Mary Walker, 713-782-8188

Plantation at Quail ValleyEmmy Lucus, 281-208-4470

7 YearsSugar Lakes Family PracticeHenry Mata, 281-565-2800

McDonough Engineering CorporationRanney McDonough, 713-975-9990

Pebble Creek RanchTammy Guardado, 281-495-8746

Lawton PublicationsGerrie Cook, 877-452-9866

9 YearsStafford Oaks Veterinary HospitalKathy Gibson, 281-499-3538

E Financial GroupDavid Evans, 281-491-5100

10 YearsNewFirst National BankTom Shirley, 832-344-2050

Geotech Engineering and TestingDavid A. Eastwood, 713-699-4000

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For membership information, contact: Jan-Michael Jenkins 281-491-0218

NOW OPEN Saturdays

Year Round9am-1pm,

RAIN or SHINE

HWY 90 at ImperialDevelopment In front of the Char House & Silos

SHOP Local& EAT Well

Local produce and ediblesLive music . Chef tastings

and demonstrationsPicnic grounds

Hosted by Fort BendChamber of Commercewww.imperialsugarland.com

for a listing ofthe vendors & activities.

SPONSORS

YEAR ROUND

BendFortCHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CONVENTION & VISITORS SERVICES

First United Methodist Church-Sugar LandMartin Nicholas, 281-491-6041

17 YearsCity of RichmondHilmar Moore, 281-342-5456

TBG PartnersJohn L. Wallace, 713-439-0027

SES Horizon Consulting Engineers, Inc.Epi Salazar, 713-988-5504

18 YearsSugar Grove Church of ChristRichard A. Fancher, 281-530-9651

Dennis Fernelius CPA, PCDennis Fernelius, 281-261-7551

19 YearsHouston Community College Southwest-StaffordFena Garza, 713-718-7737

21 YearsChampion Technologies, Inc.Nell Ciancarelli, 713-627-3303

23 YearsThe Ammerman ExperienceMary Ammerman, 281-240-2026

Dannenbaum Engineering CorporationAlan D. Hirshman, 713-520-9570

24 YearsSilver Eagle Distributors, Inc.Kevin Kohl, 281-342-2566

26 YearsHouston Baptist UniversityRobert Sloan, 281-649-3206

28 YearsJohn R. St. John Construction, Inc.John R. St. John, 281-494-8300


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Nikoz16754 SW Freeway,

Sugar Land, TX, 77479281-313-0325

www.nikozgrill.com

N ikoz Fusion Grill is a brand new Mediter-Asian Cuisine created to reflect the diversity of the Sugar Land population. It offers delicious and

healthy dishes that are grilled and represent a spectrum of countries that cover the Mediterranean Sea as well as parts of Asia. Nikoz Fusion Grill is a manifestation of this diversity through its fusion cuisine. Our unique niche is our focus on healthy cooking.

Our menu is filled with healthy choices ranging from our Greek Salad to our signature dishes such as the Por-tuguese grilled piri piri chicken and our grilled Asian

style whitefish. This restaurant was created to reflect one of the great commonality of different cultures via Food.

Nikoz Fusion Grill is open seven days a week from 11am- 10pm Mon-Thur, 11am-11pm Friday and Saturday, and 11am - 9pm Sundays. We do catering and have a pri-vate party hall that can accommodate up to 60 people. Beer and wine are also available.

Advanced Wellness Medical Clinic21830 Kingsland Blvd. Suite 102

Katy, Texas 77450832-321-5735

www.advancedwmc.com

T he Advanced Wellness Medical Clinic of Katy’s mission is to provide patients with the most ef-fective and state-of-the-art functional and anti-

aging medical services. They utilize the latest scientific technologies, and their primary goal is to promote well-ness by focusing on the early detection and prevention of chronic and age related diseases.

The varied therapies include bio-identical hormone replacement and optimization; The NEW HCG pro-gram; inflammation elimination; IV nutrition therapy and detoxification therapies; customized oral nutritional programs; laser and minimally invasive vein treatments; and facial aesthetics.

Jaime Robledo, MD is double board certified in An-esthesiology and Pain Medicine. He is a Fellow of The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, and the medi-cal director and founder for Advanced Interventional Pain Consultants. Dr. Robledo’s primary focus is to get to know his patients as individuals and prescribe a plan that is tai-lored for each client.


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www.FortBendChamber.com

iEnergy North America 16400 Kensington Drive in

Sugar Land, TX 77479www.iEnergyNorthAmerica.com

713-290-0040

i Energy North America helps individuals, organi-zations, and communities intelligently conserve energy and reduce their electricity and natural gas

costs. As an independent and unbiased advocate for the energy needs of our customers, iEnergy North America markets innovative technology products for customized energy solutions.

We help customers understand the risks associated from the purchase of various energy products. Our expe-

rience gives us the credibility to understand various product structures. Our relationships with best-in-class providers ensure a seamless and hassle free transition. Our knowledge helps us recommend solutions customized for your business and individual needs.

TX 3rd Coast MMA14021 SW Freeway,

Sugar Land, TX 77478281-302-6183

www.tx3rdcoastmma.com

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COVER STORY

Ron Reynolds shines at serving all

Ron Reynolds, is State Representative for Fort Bend County’s House District 27. He is the first African American

elected as State Representative in Fort Bend County since Reconstruction. Ron represents parts of Houston, Missouri City, Sugar Land, Stafford, Fresno, Arcola, Richmond and Rosenberg.

“I’m proud to serve as State Representative of one of the most diverse districts in Texas.”

Ron currently serves on the House Environmental Regulation and the House Economic Development & Small Business Committees. Speaker Straus appointed him to serve on the Energy Committee of the National Conference of State Legisla-tors. These are every powerful committee assignments.

Ron’s top legislative priorities have been serving the residents and business owners in Fort Bend County by advocat-ing for high-quality education, affordable healthcare and economic empowerment for

our community.” “I’m a proud Democrat. However, I

believe in working across party lines to achieve good public policy. I have an excel-lent working relationship with both Demo-crats and Republicans in Fort Bend County and all over the State of Texas. I believe that most Americans are sick and tired of

all the negative partisan bickering that takes place in politics. There are extremes on both sides of the political spectrum.”

Ron is an attorney and the managing partner in Brown, Brown & Reynolds law firm. Ron has the distinction of being one of the youngest people appointed to serve as an Associate Municipal Judge for The City of Houston. He was also an adjunct professor at Texas Southern University. He is past President of the Houston Lawyers Association.

Ron has received numerous achieve-ment awards for his legal and legislative work. Recently he was voted “Freshman Legislator of the Year” by the House Democratic Caucus. The National Associa-tion of Minority Contractors voted him as “Public Servant of the Year” and “Rising Star” by the Fort Bend Business Journal. Ron was voted “Best Attorney in Houston” by H Texas magazine. Some other awards include: Houston’s Top 40 Leaders under 40, Houston Citizens Chamber of Com-merce “Business Pinnacle Award”, NAACP

I am running for re-election to continue my fight for adequate funding for public education, affordable healthcare and economic empowerment for small business owners,” Reynolds said. The core of his legislative agenda this past session dealt with advocating for public education and improving the opportunities for small

business owners and the Texas economy. He was a strong advocate for teachers, students, seniors and women/minority business owners.

Reynolds is a successful small business owner and partner in Brown, Brown & Reynolds law firm. Despite being a freshman legislator in the minority party, Reynolds was able to work across the aisle and have six of his bills signed into law. Reynolds was voted as “Freshman Legislator of the Year” by his colleagues. The National Association of Minority Contractors named him “Public Servant of the Year.” Also, Fort Bend Business Journal named him a “Rising Star in Fort Bend County.”

State Representative District 27 Ron Reynolds with U.S. President Barack Obama and (right), former U.S. President Bill Clinton.



CONTINUES...

Drum Major for Justice Award, EEOC Civil Rights All-Star Award, American Red Cross Humanitarian Award, Missouri City Juneteenth Community Service Award and YMCA Minority Achievers Award.

Ron believes that “to whom much is given, much is required.” Above all his accomplishments, Ron is most proud and grateful for his wife, Dr. Jonita Reynolds and his children, Lacey, Ronald III and Reagan Reynolds. Ron is active in his church at Brookhollow Baptist Church.

Reynolds has accolades to last a life-time, but the Missouri City resident says his most significant accomplishment is all that he has done and continues to do to benefit the community. He is past presi-dent of the Fort Bend NAACP.

Ron spends the majority of his personal time serving the community by practic-ing law pro bono, being the voice of the voiceless, advocating for people who have been maltreated, and building a coalition of consciousness for human rights.

Reynolds has been very active in Fort Bend County. He is an active member of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. He has served on the Fort Bend I.S.D. Bond Advisory Committee. He has also served

on numerous non-profit organizations in Fort Bend County.

Reynolds, a product of Fort Bend schools, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Public Affairs degree from Texas Southern University (TSU), and received his Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from Texas Tech University School of Law. A former TSU Adjunct Public Affairs Profes-sor, Reynolds was one of the youngest persons to be appointed as an Associate Municipal Judge in the City of Houston by Mayor Lee P. Brown in 2002. He is currently a Partner in Brown, Brown & Reynolds Law Firm. He also served as Past President of the Missouri City and Vicinity Branch of the NAACP and is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 100 Black Men of Houston, and Past President of the Houston Lawyers Associa-tion, to name a few.

Do you feel you stand out above all the other attorneys in Houston?

Although I am infinitely grateful for the honor of being named “Houston’s Top At-torney”, I humbly acknowledge that receiving

State Representative District 27,

Ron Reynolds and family.

Q: Ron what do you do for a living?A: I’m an Attorney/Mediator. I’m a partner

in the Brown, Brown & Reynolds law firm. I’m also a former Associate Municipal Judge for the City of Houston. I’m a former Adjunct Professor at Texas Southern University.

Q: What type of law do you practice?A: I’m a personal injury attorney.Q: I understand that you have recently

been named “Houston’s Top Lawyer” by H Texas Magazine.

A: Yes, I’m truly blessed and proud to have been voted by my peers as “Houston’s Top Personal Injury Lawyer” by H Texas Magazine.

Q: What other awards have your received?

A: I received the Pinnacle business achievement award, EEOC Civil Rights All-Star Award, MLK Drum Major for Justice Award, NAACP ALEX Award for Legal Excellence, American Red Cross Humanitarian Award, Who’s Who in Law, Houston’s Top 40 Leaders Under 40.

QUESTIONS FOR RON REYNOLDS



this award has more to do with a POWER higher than myself and other than myself. Commensurate with that is the belief, “To whom much is given, much is required.” Much has indeed been given to me, and as a result, I have devoted my life to being deeply rooted, ever-growing, and forever serving. Reaching the apex of success as defined by the Fort Bend community is an accomplishment that I shall forever cherish. Know, however, that as a perpetual servant of the public, my work has just begun.

Why do you remain committed to serving the community?

Gandhi’s profound words inspire me, “We must be the change we wish to see in the world.” Those who know me know that I embody an inherent fervor for helping others, especially those less fortunate than I. Therefore, as long as I have breath, I vow to give of my time, talents, and treasures to heal the hurts of humanity. Because of personal challenges in my life, I recognize that I did not achieve what others are defining as the pinnacle of success all by myself. Thus, it is incumbent upon me to bridge the chasm that has allowed me to excel beyond heights ever imaginable.

What motivational words would you provide to people hoping to follow in your footsteps?

Constable Ruben Davis, Burt Levine, Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen, State Representative District 27 Ron Reynolds and Councilman Danny Nguyen.

Keri Schmidt, Bridget Yueng, Ron Reynolds, Chris Breaux, Don Smithers and Louis Garvin.

If excellent is possible, then good is not enough. I encourage all who aspire to reach the pin-nacle of life, to always LEAD: Live a Godly life; Educate to elevate your minds; Aim high; and Determine to succeed. Each of you is genetically coded for genius, therefore, you must personify the CASH (competence, attitude, skills, habits) that will propel you into your purpose. Trust me, when you remain steadfastly committed to your purpose, walking confidently knowing who you are and whose you are, you will collide with destiny!

What is your business philosophy/motto?As a servant-leader, I embrace the business philosophy that excellent is not the goal, it is

the standard. In every personal and professional pursuit, I mark my work with excellence, and when called, I answer. It is because I walk the talk, daily, I can fervently say that there are no circumstances around me more powerful than the power within me. Each day, I plan purpose-fully, prepare prayerfully, proceed positively, and pursue persistently. Once I’ve done all that I can to leverage my resources in order to organize, strategize, mobilize, and politicize, I am reassured knowing that there is a Higher Power that will do what I can’t.


4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300, Stafford, Texas 77477 • Direct: 281-690-4204 • [email protected]

To Our Business Neighbors: As experienced business professionals we all know the importance of these two words. As

owners of family owned businesses we know the value of sharing our story and our philosophy with new and established customers. Whether we market our business by word of mouth or aspire to share it on a much larger scale, share it we must if we desire to exist and grow.

For more than 20 years, The Fort Bend/Katy Business Journal has been in the business of business. The Journal is the only locally owned publication in the Fort Bend area dedicated to focusing on your business. Whether the Journal is highlighting the creation of new enterprises, celebrating milestones of existing entities or reporting award winning business endeavors, it is the sole publication in the area dedicated to researching and sharing business stories.

The Journal has been an integral part of the phenomenal growth of Fort Bend County reporting on development opportunities, government growth strategies and regulations, and the community/business synergies that comprise Fort Bend County. The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce prints their monthly newsletter in our publication. To be a part of the Fort Bend/Katy business story, read the Journal and decide how best to share your own story with the community.

Businesses can choose to be a cover story, part of a monthly theme focus, or to run a time appropriate ad for a specific event. The Journal also features business involvement in the numerous philanthropic projects that epitomize the county. Our knowledgeable advertising executives can discuss available business presentation options. State-of-the-art graphic designers and award-winning photographers are also available to present your visual story. The Business Journal cover stories are a testament to the professional ability of our writers.

Call 281-690-4204 today to talk with Mary Doetterl, Advertising Director. It’s your business and your future. Develop it now by sharing it with others who need your services and expertise.

Advertising Pays!



Gov. Rick Perry has named Dave Scott of Richmond chair of the Brazos River Authority Board of Directors for a term

to expire at the pleasure of the governor, and has also appointed three members to the board. The authority develops and conserves surface water resources of the Brazos River Basin.

Scott is a rancher and retired executive vice president of Port City Stockyard Company. He is a board member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and a life member of the Fort Bend County Fair Association and Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. He is also a member of the Texas Livestock Market and Brazoria County Cattlemen’s Association, and past president of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. Scott attended the University of Houston and Sam Houston State University.

Paul Christensen of Crawford is a certified public accountant (CPA) and partner at Cunningham, Shavers, Christensen and Wright. He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, and Texas and Central Texas societies of CPAs, and a past board

member of the Chalk Bluff Water Corporation. He is also a volunteer for and past board treasurer of the Crawford Little League. Christensen received a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University. He is appointed for a term to expire Feb. 1, 2017.

Chet Creel of Olney is owner and operator of Seed-Tex. He is a member of Rural Young Professionals, and a board member of the Young County Farm Bureau and Olney Hamilton Hospital. He is also a member and Rice Committee chair of the Texas Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher Program, and a member of the Texas A&M University Association of Former Students. Creel received a bachelor’s

degree from Texas A&M University. He is appointed for a term to expire Feb. 1, 2015.

W.J. “Bill” Rankin of Brenham is a certified public accountant and chief financial officer for Blue Bell Creameries. He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs and Texas Society of CPAs.

He is a board member and past president of the Boys and Girls Club of Washington County, Brenham Noon Lions Club and Washington County Texas A&M Club, and president of Abiding Word Lutheran Church of Brenham. He is also past president and a past board member of the Brenham Independent School District, and a past chair and past board member of Lutheran Social Services of the South. Rankin served in the U.S. Air Force.

He received a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and a Master of Business Administration from Sul Ross State University. He is appointed for a term to expire Feb. 1, 2015.

Dave Scott

Dave Scott named chair of Brazos River Authority Board of Directors

The U.S. Department of Labor is proposing to change the regulations regarding children working on farms.

The proposed rules would ban children from dangerous activities such as working on a hay stack higher than six feet above the ground, using any power tool, or herding cattle with a horse. Under the new rules, children would be required to complete at least 90 hours of classroom instructions before they could be hired to work on a farm. As you might imagine, as the father of six young farm children, this proposal concerns me. I wrote the following comments and submitted them to the Department of Labor for their consideration:

I am concerned about the Department of Labor child labor rule, “Child Labor

New labor rules robbing our kids?Regulations, Orders and Statements of Interpretation” (RIN 1235-AA06). I have been involved with agriculture all my life. As a young boy I helped my grandfather and my uncles on the family dairy farm doing everything from milking cows and feeding calves to hauling hay and helping in the fields. I count my experiences on the farm as a great blessing in my life. The lessons I learned helped form me into the man I have become. Had these proposed new rules been in effect when I was a boy, my helping on the farm would have been against the law. One of the great memories I have of growing up on the farm is each fall filling the old hay loft with approximately 2,000 bales of straw. This was a hot, dusty job that was performed well above the six foot high limit proposed by the new rules.

Today I have chosen to raise my six children on a small family farm. This farm happens to be incorporated. Not only do I

have my children help on the farm, I have many neighbors who practically beg me to give their children a job and the opportunity to learn to work, too. The proposed changes would prevent me from allowing children to work on my farm and rob them of the valuable lessons that they could learn.

I understand that safety is an issue. No one is more concerned about that than me. It is my children who work with me. I believe that the work environment I provide for the children on my farm is safe. Children are monitored closely as they work and are only given tasks that are age appropriate.

I could not operate my farm without the help of my children, and the lessons I learned working with my family from my youth. I would hope this tradition can continue.

Youth need the opportunity to learn responsibility, the value of hard work, and earn a little spending money. This regulation would restrict their ability to do all three.

By Dane Sanders

A T T O R N E Y - A T - L A W

Law and BusinessBy Chad Ellis

Attorney-At-LawEllis and Irwin, L.L.P.


Mediation is defined by Webster as “inter-vention between conflicting parties to promote reconciliation, settlement, or compromise.” It’s definition, rules and procedures are defined by Texas Legislature in the Civil Practice and Remedies Code throughout several chapters under the general heading Alternative Methods of Dispute Resolution.

The vast majority of Courts in Texas now use mediation as a tool to help resolve their cases. Most Courts will actually require litigants to attend mediation prior to trial. So the odds are that if you end up in litigation, mediation is in your foreseeable future.

The basic format of a mediation starts where both sides come together with a neutral mediator and make a presentation about the merits of their case and/or positions. Each side sits and listens to the other and answers any questions that the mediator might have. Following this, each sides retires to their own

room while the mediator moves back and forth trying to broker resolution. This seems simple enough and given that mediation is really a protracted negotiation, there really shouldn’t be that much to do in the way of strategic planning, right? WRONG. A successful mediation starts long before you get to the mediators office. It starts with the selection of the mediator.

Pick the right mediator: As a client you should ask your lawyer, who is the mediator? Most lawyers will tell you when talking about a mediator that he/she was a judge or practiced in a certain area of law for 30 years. While these can be important, it is not as important as their ability to relate to and communicate with the parties involved. Some of the best mediators I know never put on a robe, but they have this innate ability to empathize with the parties.

I recall once being pulled aside in mediation before the joint session and the mediator asked

me, “What do I need to know?” This was a great question. He wasn’t asking me about the law, damages or anything that was in the lawyer’s summaries that he already read. He was asking me about my clients’ personalities, the personalities of the other parties. He was asking for something, anything he could use to bring the parties together.

The next time you are in litigation and sent to mediation, talk to your lawyer about the me-diator. Every case, no matter how difficult, has a mediator that is best suited to it. Your chance of success depends on finding that person.

Chad Ellis is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and a partner with Ellis and Irwin, L.L.P. This article is not intended to pro-vide specific legal advice for a particular situation. Legal advice can only be provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship with reference to all the facts in a specific situation. He can be reached at 832-595-1242. www.ei-law.com.

Mediation – Success Depends on the Mediator

www.colliers.com/markets/sugarland

Telfair Commercial Tracts at Highway 59 and University Now “On the Market”

HIGHWAY 59 & UNIVERSITY BLVD, SUGAR LAND

Kolbe M. Curtice CCIMDIR 281 494 4769 MOB 281 802 [email protected]

Charles HerderDIR 713 830 2100 MOB 713 825 [email protected]

Corbin JanssenDIR 281 269 3444 MOB 281 344 [email protected]

• +/- 178 Acres for Commercial Development; Can Be Divided

• Prime Freeway Intersection and Frontage in “Downtown” Sugar Land

• Within the 2,018-Acre Telfair Master-Planned Community

• Ideal for Office, Retail, Hotel, Mixed Use

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• Telfair is the #1 Selling Community in Fort Bend

FOR SALE

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Scan to access Telfair’s commercial tract brochure.Free QR Code Readers:iPhone/Android - Scan or RedLaserBlackBerry - QR Code Scanner

http://www.colliers.com/markets/sugarland


T e x a s C o m m u n i t y R e f e r r a l N e t w o r k

Business Resources

Michael and Kathryn Joseph

Michael Joseph is following a family tradition by adding his personal footprint to Historic Downtown

Richmond.Joseph’s family has had a store or stores

in downtown Richmond since 1903, even though each generation made changes, additions and subtractions, depending on their interest.

“My great-grandmother immigrated to America and landed in Richmond. She had a push cart and sold coffee and candy up and down the street. Then she earned enough to open a confectionary in 1903, which was the first in a long family history of shops,” said Michael Joseph, owner, Joseph’s Furniture and Gifts, Historic Downtown Richmond.

Michael’s grandfather added several saloons and a grocery store and his father, Richard Joseph, after graduating from Texas A&M, kept the grocery store and became a cotton buyer. Later Richard added a real estate business and in the 1960s he opened Joseph’s Furniture and Gifts, which remains open today and was expanded into what was once the grocery store. Yet, things are about to change again.

“Joseph’s Furniture and Gifts is having a major sale, to clear out the merchandise to make way for the changes. First, we will be opening a coffee shop, in the front portion of Joseph’s. We’ll have specialty coffees and the regulars, and hope to serve the first customer in the spring,” Joseph said.

Joseph and his other half, Kathryn Joseph were recently in Italy, trying different coffees. “We haven’t decided on all of the coffees yet, but they will be good,” Kathryn said.

Every Wednesday for decades, the leaders and men of the community had coffee with Richard Joseph at his Furniture and Gifts store, a tradition that continues today.

“I think my father would be very pleased about the coffee shop, since having coffee with people in the community was something he cherished and enjoyed, and that is something we are looking forward to, having coffee with the community,” Joseph said.

The next project on Joseph’s drawing board is a cigar store, complete with a walk-in humidor. There will also be a cigar lounge, with exceptional ventilation and air scrubbers, so the air will always be clean.

“The Cigar Lounge will be a large area, with a flat screen TV, couches, conference table, and a game table, which can be rented for special events,” Joseph said.

There will also be office space in the back for rent and the Joseph’s will have a loft apartment upstairs.

However, one of the main highlights will be an English Gun Emporium for antique and traditional guns, shooting wear such as tweed English jackets, and gun accessories such as gun cases and gun cleaners. The Emporium will open in the fall of 2012. Joseph noted, he first got the bug for antique English guns 20 years ago when he received his first English gun, which he still has.

“The first time I held the gun, I knew there was a difference, it is the difference between a Timex and Rolex, both keep time very well, both do the job, but there is just a difference,” Joseph said.

The guns, mainly English Sporting guns, will have been serviced and useable. The guns are 100% man-made and have survived 100-150 years, which testifies to their quality and workmanship. These guns are in limited supply and the Joseph’s have spent many hours searching for them all over England and it has not been easy, according to Joseph.

Joseph will also have a store in London,

and with this connection, the couple hopes to arrange bird hunting trips to England and around the world, to hunt the way the English did, with the traditions of 100 years ago. “My London partner is Diggory Hadoke, who writes articles for gun magazines in London and America. When we open the store, he’ll be here for a book signing in October. We’ll also be bringing other people from London over and have special and famous guests here as well,” Joseph said.

Kathryn added, “These guns have a lot of history and are very interesting. There is just something about having and using a gun that possibly a Duke or an Earl or someone famous once owned and used hunting.”

According to Joseph, both the cigar and gun shop will draw a much wider cliental than the immediate area, such as neighboring cities and states. The gun shop will draw international attention, with the London store serving that half of the world and the Richmond store drawing those in North and South America, which will bring new visitors to the area.

All of the new renovations and construction will be interior, with the outside of the buildings remaining the same.

Michael, a graduate of the University of Texas, has been a pilot captain for Southwest Airlines for the past 21 years. Kathryn, a graduate of Texas A&M, spent the first 21 years of her career in human resources for Morgan Stanley.

“We met on a blind date. But every time we were supposed to go out, something would come up and we had to cancel. Finally, I called her and told her I had a flight to pick someone up and asked if she wanted to go, and she said yes. So our first date was in an airplane,” Joseph said.

Now, 25 years later, they are working together to add their personal touches to two blocks in downtown Richmond at the intersection of Second and Morton Streets.

The new additions to the Josephs’ stores will all have gifts like Joseph’s carries now. There will gifts in the coffee shop, cigar and gun shop, according to Kathryn.

A family tradition to continue in Historic Downtown Richmond


Success is something every business wants. Achieving that success is the trick. TCRN-Sugar Land is filled with resources to help every local business thrive. Whether you are a start-up business or a seasoned company cemented in the community, TCRN Business Services can provide the resources every local business needs.

Professional sports and businesses have a lot in common. As an athlete, you play little league, high school, college and one day hope to make the pros. At this point, talent is a given and it is fair to say that cer-tain goals have been achieved. But there is still more that can be accomplished. What is the driving force for every good athlete? The answer: a good coach. Even a profes-sional athlete needs a coach. Good coaching allows that talented athlete to improve, and

help the “team” win a championship. It is the same for businesses and their owners. They may have achieved certain goals and levels of success, but there is always room to improve. A successful business owner still needs a “coach” to help drive them to con-stantly improve and maximize their business performance.

Glenn Smith is the CEO of the Growth Coach of Houston and he helps small to medium sized businesses achieve greatness. Glenn is a professional business coach that has owned several successful businesses, and is now dedicated to serving our community to help local business owners achieve their dreams. Glenn’s approach helps owners systemize their business where it can operate without them. Glenn provides a model of balance where the business not only grows

its profitability, but gives the owner more time freedom. Glenn teaches you how to work “on” your business and not “in” your business.

Glenn not only works with business owners, but works with managers and sales professionals too. Glenn has different work-shop series focused on maximizing perfor-mance. Glenn has a workshop tailored for business owners to develop a business that does not rely on them. He helps manag-ers sharpen their leadership skills so the team can enhance productivity and achieve economies of scale. While his workshops for sales professionals is dedicated to helping them become top producers.

T e x a s C o m m u n i t y R e f e r r a l N e t w o r k

Business Resources By Brian CovaultTCRN Founder/CEO

BRIAN COVAULT...continued on page 58

Local resources to help your business grow

Special Feature

To Advertise Call Mary Doetterloffice: 281-690-4204

cell: 713-397-6279 [email protected]

COMINGFEBRUARY

2012 ISSUE

Fort Bend/Katy

Deadline January 10Technology &

Communication

Ribbon Cuttings

Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance

Grand Windows and Interiors (1405 Avenue I, Rosenberg): From left: Gilbert Limones, Liz Moreno, Terry Crockett, Shirley Jackson, David Martin, Adam Bartling, Matt Ontivaros, Caron Lopez, Candelario Lopez, Michele Barnes, Andres Novoa, Melisaa Garcia-Martin, J. Crayton, CPA, Jeff Trinker, Cathy Pitts, Tom Wilson, Shanta Kuhl and Darrell Karnopp.

Hunan Garden Restaurant’s interior remodel (4601 Avenue H, Rosenberg): From left: Alicia Casias, Cathy Pitts, Alicia Davis, Mary Doetterl, Belinda Suarez, Darrell Karnopp, Vincent Morales, Matt Ontivaros, Elaine Yang, Cindy Newlin, Mike Newlin, Sharon Wallingford, Eloise Lucas, Lou Jackson, Tom Wilson, Liz Moreno, Dennis Garrison, Suzanne Loehr, Shirley Jackson, Shanta Kuhl, and Gilbert Limones.

Orange Leaf Frozaen Yogurt - Richmond (7975 W. Grand Pkwy. S, Ste. 130, Richmond): From left: Gilbert Limones, Jason Griggs, Kevin Patton Shanta Kuhl, Mat Ontivaros, Darrell Karnopp, Dara Sleeper, Janice Perry, Doug Perry, and Mark Foltz.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria Greatwood (6560 Greatwood Pkwy., Ste. 900, Sugar Land): From left: Terry Crockett, Brian Ellis, Shanta Kuhl, Mike Shaw, Ben Knapp, Jim Wilkinson, Matt Ontivaros, Gilbert Limones, Mike McCroskey, Lisa Matthews, Josh Fields, Pete Olson, Liz Moreno and Suzanne Loehr, Stieber.

Reliable Oaks Personal Home Care (11750 Padon Road, Needville,): Pictured: Alicia Davis, Ron & Sonja Norsworthy, Sylvester Vaughns, Shirley Jackson, Lois Gremminger, Mary Ekwuruke, Rachel Brumbelow, Elizabeth Williams, Suzanne Truax, Gloria Hall-Donaldson, Rosalinda Velleon, C. Owen, Jeri Krauss, Libbie Vaughan, Mary Brautigan, Lisa Matthews, Gilbert Limones, Dominique Flowers, Tom Wilson, Liz Moreno, Ashley Long, Monique Cullen, Michelle Sonnier, Stella Lessert, Ruth Vaughns, Larry Hook, Ella Samuel, and Mark Foltz.



Last month, “for sale” signs went up on the 178-acre Telfair commercial tracts along both sides of the freeway at the intersection of Highway 59 and University Boulevard in Sugar Land. The property is the last re-maining large commercial tract available in Sugar Land and, as such, is one of the best suburban development properties currently available in Texas. As it was unavailable until now, commercial development along Highway 59 over the past two decades has leapfrogged the property across the Brazos River. As a result, it has become increasingly more valuable. The Highway 59 freeway frontage gives the property excellent ac-cess to both Houston and west Fort Bend County and the property’s surrounding demographics are among the strongest in the country.

The 2,018-acre former Central Prison Unit property was originally purchased from the Texas General Land Office by mas-ter planned community developer Newland Communities in 2002. The company broke ground in February 2005 and the development opened in 2006. Newland elected to complete the residential portions of the community before focusing on the commercial property along the freeway. With over eighty percent of the residential homes completed, attention is now shifting to the commercial tracts. Last summer, Col-liers International was selected to represent the owner to market and sell the tracts. Charlie Herder and I will be handling the assignment on behalf of Colliers. Initial activity has been strong and discussions are currently ongoing with a wide variety

of potential developments and uses.The Telfair commercial property will

have a huge impact on Sugar Land’s business landscape. To put the scale of the property into perspective, it is ap-proximately the equivalent of 100 square blocks of downtown Houston. Commercial development in Sugar Land typically occurs with land-to building ratios between 5:1 and 8:1. In other words, between 5 and 8 square feet of land is required for every 1 square foot of new construction. At these same ratios, the 178 acre Telfair property, when fully developed, will add between 1 million and 1.5 million square feet of new commercial buildings. That number could

R E A L E S T A T E

Commercial Real EstateBy Kolbe Curtice, CCIM, CLS

Managing Director Colliers International - Fort Bend

KOLBE CURTICE...continued on page 58

Commercial Tracts at 59 and University Now “On the Market”

Submit Newsworthy items to [email protected]

NEWSWORTHY


Email your news or press release to [email protected]

We love to hear from you. Also, don’t forget to read The Fort Bend Star or visit www.fortbendstar.com

GOT NEWS?

The popular restaurant Zoës Kitchen is now open in Sugar Land Town Square. Zoës Kitchen features Mediterranean-inspired comfort food. Menu options range from soups, salads and sandwiches, to entrees, Zoës Stacks ™, sides, desserts, and gluten-free items.

“We are excited to bring something different to Sugar Land Town Square,” says Steven Yost, general manager of Zoës Kitchen Sugar Land. “Our restaurant offers healthy menu options featuring a unique blend of simple, fresh and deli-cious food sure to please families.”

The Sugar Land Town Square loca-tion marks the eatery’s sixth in the Greater Houston area, according to Planned Community Developers, Ltd. (PCD). Zoës Kitchen is located at 2260 Lone Star Drive and occupies 2,711 square feet of space.

Charles Adams, vice president of retail for PCD, represented PCD in the trans-action; Jason Baker and Traci Holman of Baker Katz represented Zoës Kitchen.

For a complete list of Sugar Land Town Square restaurants and retailers, visit SugarLandTownSquare.com. More infor-mation about Zoës Kitchen, including nutrition facts, visit www.ZoesKitchen.com.

Planned Community Developers, Ltd. (PCD) is the developer of the 9,700-acre First Colony master-planned community in Sugar Land, Texas, located southwest of Houston. PCD is currently developing two other major projects: River’s Edge, a 370-acre community in Richmond, Texas, and Lake Pointe Town Center, a 190-acre, mixed-use development at the intersection of U.S. 59 and Highway 6.

Zoës Kitchen opens in Sugar Land Town Square

Monte Pritchett, Cornelius Callis, Tim Kana, Charles Armstead, Ray Alexander, and Zach Medford stand, left to right, as the former Needville ISD Bluejay players from 1990-1995 present Charles Armstead with a football helmet at Nedville’s recent homecoming for his valor on the field in Iraq. Armstead was honored honored on December 11 with a barbcue meal by theNeedville American Legion Post 350. Congressman Pete Olson read a proclamation to honor Armstead who was wounded in Iraq. The congressman challenged Armsted to a 5k run in June and said he would be with him every step of the way.

Charles Armstead honored

Federal, State and local officials joined the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to celebrate the opening of the newly-constructed direct connectors for the IH 10 West/ SH 99 interchange. The first of the two ramps, SH 99 northbound to IH 10 eastbound, recently opened on December 2. The second ramp, IH 10 westbound to SH 99 southbound is on schedule to be com-pleted in the coming weeks.

The addition of these ramps will sig-nificantly improve the mobility and flow of traffic traveling through the IH 10 West/ SH 99 intersection. Once complete, motor-ists who travel SH 99 northbound to IH 10 east bound and IH 10 westbound to SH 99 southbound will see a reduction in travel times from using the ramps to bypass the signalized intersection.

Speakers included Texas Representatives Bill Callegari and Ron Reynolds, Texas Transportation Commissioner Ned Holmes, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, Ft. Bend County Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers. A host of other locally elected and agency officials and members of the business community were on hand.

The connectors were constructed by Lone Star Road Construction at a cost of $29 million, which was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Economic Stimulus Bill). Construction began in July 2010 and took 18 months to complete.

Ribbon cutting held for the new IH 10 West/SH

99 direct connectors


Sugar Land recently refinanced $9.4 million in bond issues, saving taxpayers $91,000 annually for the next nine years.

The Series 2012 General Obligation and Refunding Bonds replace three exist-ing bond issues and received a AAA rating from both Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings.

The AAA rating is the highest bond rating a municipal bond can carry and represents a bond with minimal risk due to the strong financial management prac-tices of the city.

Bond ratings reflect the city’s credit-worthiness and are based on economic

base, financial indicators, outstanding debt and management policies and prac-tices. A city’s bond rating is similar to a consumer’s credit score; a higher rating leads to better offers of credit and lower interest rates.

According to Fitch: “Sugar Land’s conservative budgeting practices usually generate actual results better than original projections.

The fiscal 2012 total property tax rate is a low (30.245 cents) per $100 of taxable assessed value, reportedly the second low-est in the state for cities in its population range.”

Sugar Land bond refinancing saves taxpayers $819 million

An exemption from sales tax on the purchase of certain items used in the pro-duction of agricultural and timber prod-ucts is required to have a Texas Agriculture and Timber Exemption Registration Number (Ag/Timber Number).

You can apply online.The online application has two parts.

The first is to register through “MyCPA”, which creates a secure online identifica-tion for you. Once registered, “MyCPA” will take you directly to the application, which should take about 10 minutes to complete. You will receive an ag/timber number on completion – no signature is required.

Who does qualify for a registration number?

A person, including a non-Texas resi-dent, engaged in the production of agri-

cultural or timber products for sale in the regular course of business is eligible for a registration number. This number can be used to claim an exemption from Texas sales tax on the purchase of qualifying items. Included for eligibility for registra-tion numbers are persons in these groups:

farmers and ranchers who raise agri-cultural products to sell to others; persons engaged in aquaculture and apiculture; (i.e. commercial fish farms or bee keep-ers); custom harvesters; persons engaged in agricultural aircraft operations, as defined by 14 C.F.R. Section 137.3 (crop dusting); commercial nurseries engaged in fostering growth of plants for sale (i.e., growing stock from seed or cuttings, replanting seedlings in larger containers); and, timber producers, including contract lumberjacks.

Texas registration numbers on-line

Everybody’s Phone Company (Pink Sheets:EVPH) is proud to announce that they have achieved their first revenues.

The company’s initial focus on acquiring customers in the 10 -county Houston metropolitan area has proven effective

and resulted in the company’s first six clients. Although at the present time revenues remain small, these initial cli-ents have proven that the company’s sales plan works. They have not yet begun an advertising campaign; it is anticipated that advertising will substantially increase their client base.

The company is currently offering government subsidized services to quali-fying customers. People who use other government benefits such as TANF, SNAP and Medicaid also can benefit from the company’s federally funded Lifeline Link-Up Program. The program is designed to subsidize the cost of phone service, easing the cost to the consumer while EVPH still achieves maximum profits. The Houston Chronicle recently reported that over 700,000 residents of the 10-county Houston metropolitan area receive some form of government subsidized services. One example cited is that over 1 million Houston area residents have applied for food stamps and added the program since 2007. This figure represents a staggering 12% of the population; an estimated 40% are eligible. These same people could enjoy the benefits of the federally funded Lifeline Link-Up program.

Everybody’s Phone Company (EVPH) is expanding their services to include online account monitoring, referral incen-tive programs, and availability of govern-ment programs to increase their bottom line and attract new customer bases across Texas. EPC started out acquiring heav-ily discounted telephone service from the incumbent local exchange carriers, such as AT&T and Verizon, and reselling the ser-vices at premium rates on a prepaid basis yielding above average profit margins and mitigating bad debt.

Once EPC achieves critical mass in Texas, it plans to expand its prepaid tele-communications product nationwide. For more information, visit www.everybodys-phonecompany.com.

Everybody’s Phone Company announces first PC first


NEWSWORTHY


An international road advocacy group has recognized the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for the agency’s innovative four-year maintenance manage-ment plan that establishes best practices meth-odology to improve pavement conditions across the state; including Fort Bend county.

TxDOT is the recipient of the International Road Federation’s (IRF) 2011 Global Road Achievement Award (GRAA) in the category of maintenance management.

The GRAA is an international competition that recognizes industry and government organizations for excellence and innovation in road development. This year, the IRF will honor nine projects from eight countries. TxDOT representatives will accept the award on January 24 at the annual IRF awards ban-quet in Washington D.C.

“Good roads equal economic growth in Texas,” noted Phil Wilson, TxDOT execu-tive director. “To that end, the TxDOT team

TxDOT earns international award

BrightStar Care, one of the fastest growing home healthcare and staffing providers in the country, announces the expansion of its caregiving network and opening of its newest location at 134 Eldridge Road, Suite C in Sugar Land.

Owned and operated by Bob Heth, BrightStar of Sugar Land will provide local residents in Fort Bend and Harris counties, as well as those in Houston Metro’s southwest area, with adult and elder homecare and childcare, as well as supplemental healthcare staff to corpo-rate clients such as hospitals and nursing homes.

“We are incredibly excited about our arrival to the area,” said Shelly Sun, Co-Founder and CEO of BrightStar Care, which was recently featured on CBS’ Emmy nominated reality television series Undercover Boss.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the demand for primary care services is likely to increase in the coming years as the baby boomers continue to age and are expected to live longer and healthier than preceding generations. In fact, census projections call for a 36% rise in the population of seniors age 65 and older by 2020 and 120% increase by 2050. And the number of those 100 and older will skyrocket, rising 71% by 2020 and 661% by 2050.

“There comes a time in everyone’s life when they need a helping hand to overcome the challenges life throws at them and I knew that the tools and systems BrightStar Care already had in place would allow us to provide the high-quality level of care to my community and the surrounding areas,” said Heth, who launched his business after becoming a victim of corporate downsizing. “We couldn’t be more excited to start meeting the challenges and needs of those in the community.”

When global health care giant Abbott Laboratories cut him loose in June 2010 after more than 22 years, Heth went where so many corporate refugees have opted to go for a second career act: operat-ing a franchise business. In August 2011, Heth pulled together his startup cash from his 401(k) and signed the franchise agreement, which required an initial fee of $47,000 and about 5 percent to 7 percent royalties. He then rented a 730-square-foot office in Sugar Land, one of more than 250 BrightStar locations nationwide.

“I thought about franchising and real-ized this is my vehicle for changing every-thing. I knew I could use my knowledge of the health care industry, and with a good franchise partner, I could take it anywhere.”

Today, Heth’s BrightStar Care pro-

vides the full continuum of care, from private homecare for all ages to medical staffing service for healthcare facilities. While senior citizens make up the major-ity of the company’s private duty clientele, BrightStar Care also works with children, workers’ compensation cases, long-term care and Veteran clients, as well as private trust and public guardian payers.

“Our mission is to give ‘peace of mind’ to our clients by providing the high-est quality healthcare staffing solutions,” Heth added. “We are closely involved with the families we serve and support our clients and staff with every means possible. We are people who care about people.”

BrightStar of Sugar Land can be reached by phone at (281) 201-3700 or by emailing [email protected].

BrightStar Care expands care giving network to Sugar Land

Email your news or press release to [email protected]

We love to hear from you. Also, don’t forget to read The Fort Bend Star or visit www.fortbendstar.com

GOT NEWS?

did an exemplary job of developing a plan of best practices to address critical highway maintenance issues around the state. TxDOT employees work daily to provide a quality transportation system, one that assures seam-less access and mobility for the citizens of Texas. We’re proud of the team, and we’re pleased to accept this prestigious award.”

A five-member team of TxDOT engi-

continues...


Texas dominated the Milken Institute’s annual index of Best-Performing Cities, tak-ing four of the top five positions and nine of the top 25, thanks to the state’s healthy economy and robust job creation climate.

“I’m proud of the environment we’ve created in Texas that allows employers to risk their capital, receive a return on their investment and create jobs, thanks to our low taxes, reasonable and predictable regula-tory environment, fair legal system and skilled workforce,” Gov. Rick Perry said. “Each of these cities highlights the reasons Texas is the best place to live, work and raise a family, and I congratulate them on this recognition.”

To determine the Best-Performing cities, the Milken Institute measured job, wage and technology performance over a five-year period. The study found that Texas employ-ers were responsible for one of every five jobs created in the nation from June 2010 to June 2011. San Antonio was the top performer among the nation’s 200 Best-Performing large metros, and Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown

ranked number one among the 10 largest metros. The study attributes Texas’ success to having a favorable business climate, low busi-ness costs, renewed trade with Mexico and South America, and ongoing energy explora-tion and alternative fuels research.

Earlier this year, Site Selection Magazine, DCI and Area Development Magazine each ranked Texas as the best business cli-mate. Additionally, Texas won Site Selection Magazine’s 2010 Governor’s Cup for the most new and expanded corporate facilities announced over the year.

According to USA Today, Texas has moved past New York as the nation’s second largest economy, and the Wall Street Journal has credited the state’s low taxes and employ-er-friendly environment with helping make Texas the job creation capital of the nation.

Additionally, Texas is ranked as the top exporting state in the nation for the ninth year in a row, and Texas consistently ranks among the top states for Fortune 500 head-quarters.

Texas dominates list of best-performing cities

The annual Black Tie Gala at the Stafford Centre hosted by Precinct 2 Fort Bend County Commissioner Grady Prestage on December 16 featured the traditional holiday gathering with notable who’s whos. (l-r) Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Chair Chris Breaux, candidate for State House District 26 Vy Nguyen, Fort Bend County Democrat Party board member Carlos A. Garcia, and Star Publisher Bev Carter.

Prestage Black Tie Gala 2011

neers directed the development of a four-year pavement management plan that prioritizes roadway maintenance needs according to highway type (for example, interstate high-ways have a higher priority than farm-to-markets), degree of pavement damage, finan-cial constraints, history of deterioration and climate conditions.

Three years into the program, the results have been telling. Statewide, the percent-age of highways rated at good or better has increased a percentage point in the last year, from 85.99 to almost 87 percent. Earlier pre-dictions showed pavement condition scores would fall to below 85 percent.

The TxDOT team used established road deterioration prediction models from the Center for Transportation Research at The University of Texas-Austin to develop the plan. The models were used to analyze the damage rates for different pavements in each of the four climate regions in Texas. Rate of deterioration is different depending on soil type and weather.

In addition, a separate TxDOT peer review team conducted a three-day, in-depth reviews to identify pavement management best practices in each district. The sharing and implementation of best practices is the goal of the agency’s peer review program. Based on data from the deterioration models and results from the peer review, the TxDOT team developed a standardized set of best practices that became the foundation for agency’s pave-ment management plan—a comprehensive guideline for statewide road rehabilitation and preventive maintenance to maximize pave-ment preservation.

The IRF presents a number of interna-tionally recognized awards each year honoring members or individuals for excellence and innovation in road development. TxDOT’s winning pavement management project will be featured in an upcoming issue of World Highways magazine, an international industry publication dedicated to communicating all aspects of infrastructure development world-wide.

TxDOT earns international award continued


NAMES IN THE NEWS


Fort Bend Family Health Center (FBFHC) is laying the groundwork for a com-prehensive fund development program under the direction of Carol Edwards, CEO, and new Development Officer Kelli Metzenthin.

In her first year as CEO and eleventh year with the organization, Carol Edwards is com-mitted to focusing on the current and future challenges faced in the community health care industry. According to Edwards, “2014 and the Affordable Health Care Act will bring changes to our industry and Fort Bend Family Health Center is committed to being ready for the challenge. A comprehensive fund development program is part of being ahead of the challenge. We will be ready for 2014.” Edwards has lived in Fort Bend County over 35 years and feels fortunate to be able to serve its residents.

Kelli Metzenthin, a long-time resident of Fort Bend County, has many years of experience in the not for profit arena as both a volunteer and staff devel-opment director. Prior to joining Fort Bend Family

Health Center, Metzenthin was the develop-ment director at Child Advocates of Fort Bend where she launched Voices for Children, a public awareness and sustainable fundraising program. She is excited about meeting the future challenges in the healthcare industry and learning how they will affect the not for profit side of the industry.

Fort Bend Family Health Center is a private, not-for-profit organization focused on providing primary health care services for

the low-income and medi-cally under served popula-tions of Fort Bend, Waller, and Wharton counties, but opens its doors to all who wish to receive care without regard to income or circum-stance.

Fort Bend Family Health Center is dedi-cated to excellence in providing integrated health care services to improve the quality of life in the communities it serves. In fiscal year 2010, Fort Bend Family Health Center served over 27,000 individuals.

For more information about Fort Bend Family Health Center or to learn about its services, medical professionals, and dental professionals, please call 281-342-4530 or go to www.fbfhc.org

Two employers in Fort Bend County have been awarded Texas Mutual Insurance Company’s top honor for workplace safety. Texas Mutual, the state’s leading provider of workers’ compensation, recognized these companies for their prevention of losses con-nected with workers’ compensation claims.

Honorees from the Fort Bend County area include:

Puffer Sweiven—provides solutions for process control and flow control for several industries, including oil and gas, refining, petro-chemicals, utilities, power, and pulp

and paperEmployers One Source Group, Inc.—a

professional employer organization that provides payroll administration, human resources outsourcing, benefits, risk man-agement and other services

To qualify for this honor, a company must demonstrate its commitment to safety by carrying out an exemplary safety pro-gram and controlling workers’ compensa-tion losses.

“On-the-job injuries carry monetary and, more importantly, human costs,” Ron

Wright, president of Texas Mutual Insurance Company, said. “Part of our company mis-sion is to promote workplace safety and edu-cate employers about safe work practices, but it’s up to each company to implement safety policies. These honorees exemplify a commitment to workplace safety and the safety education of their employees.”

This year, 198 safety awards were dis-tributed to qualifying policyholders. Seven of this year’s honorees mark their 10th or more consecutive year without a workers’ compensation claim.

Fort Bend County companies receive top honor for workplace safety

Michael Meade of Simonton, along with 12 statewide peers, has been appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. He is director and chief juvenile probation officer of the Fort Bend County Juvenile Probation Department. He is a member of the Juvenile Justice Association, Texas Probation Association and Fort Bend County Mental Health Coalition, and a member and past president of the Southeast

Chiefs Association. He is also a past mem-ber of the University of Houston at Clear Lake Criminal Justice Advisory Board. Meade served in the U.S. Air Force. He received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in behavioral science from the University of Houston at Clear Lake, and is a graduate of the American Leadership Forum Criminal Justice Class and. He is appointed for a term to expire Feb. 1, 2013.

Scott Fisher of Bedford was appointed chair of the board. Pursuant to Senate Bill 653 of the 82nd Legislature, the Texas Juvenile Justice Department combines the Texas Youth Commission and Texas Juvenile Probation Commission to create a unified juvenile jus-tice agency to work in coordination with other state and county offices to produce positive outcomes for youths, their families and communities.

Michael Meade appointed by Perry

Carol Edwards Kelli Metzenthin

Fort Bend Family Health Center announces dynamic duo


In addition to receiving a special honor and recognition from the State of Texas, HCC Trustee Neeta Sane accomplished another milestone in December. She com-pleted her MBA - Finance degree in just under two years as a straight A student from Florida Institute of Technology. This is her second master’s degree.

Sane remains committed to her pas-sion for education and her work for public service at HCC. Going into the fifth year of her term on HCC Board Trustees, Neeta continues to stay focused on ensur-ing educational access and success of

HCC students while serv-ing the community. She hosted several regional workforce summits and launched a workforce sup-port scholarship via HCC Foundation. In 2012, she will host a Youth

Leadership Summit for Early College High Schools students.

To assist in these initiatives contact [email protected] or 832-279-8601. For more information, please visitwww.NeetaSane.com

With nine years of practice experience at FosterQuan, Sugar Land resident Helene N. Dang has represented large corporations as well as small businesses and individuals in a variety of immigration matters. She has extensive experience handling natu-ralization and citizenship issues includ-ing non-immigrant visa processing, employment-based and family-based residency, I-9 compliance and consular processing. Dang is board certified in immigration and nationality law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and practices in the firm’s Houston office.

Recognized by H Texas magazine as one of Houston’s Top Lawyers, Dang received her J.D. from South Texas College of Law and earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, Texas Young Lawyers Association, Asian American Bar Association, Asian Chamber of Commerce, Asia Society, United Way Young Leaders and Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program.

Delisa J. Futch, an associate at FosterQuan for nine years, practices fam-ily-based and employment-based immi-gration law in the firm’s Austin office. Avalyn Castillo Langemeier has nine years of practice at FosterQuan with a focus

on employment and compliance-based immigration matters. She represents pri-vate companies and public entities as well as individuals such as medical profession-als, academics and executives. Langemeier’s experience includes responding to ICE subpoenas, settlement negotiations and

proactive Form I-9 audits. She is board certified in immigration and nationality law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and is based in the firm’s Houston office.

FosterQuan, LLP offers a full spectrum of immigration legal ser-vices to assist corporations with the

strategic and compliance issues involved in the employment and movement of key personnel across international boundaries. The firm’s comprehensive suite of services includes a patented I-9 auditing and com-pliance process.

With 54 attorneys operating from Houston, Austin, San Antonio, the Rio Grande Valley, Mexico City and Washington, D.C., FosterQuan has more attorneys board certified in immigration and nationality law than any other Texas law firm.

FosterQuan utilizes the most current technology to help its clients efficient-ly manage immigration issues. For more information, visit fosterquan.com.

Joy B. Dowell has been appointed the new director of the Fort Bend County Women’s Center PennyWise Resale Centers.

Joy has served on the Fort Bend County Women’s Center Board of Directors for 7 years and was appointed chairman in 2009. Joy was instrumental in the open-ing of the Stafford and Mission Bend PennyWise Resale Centers and helped to remodel the Richmond store in 2004, which earned her “PennyWise Volunteer of the Year-2004.”

Prior to accepting her new position, Joy served as the President/CEO for Shape Up Sugar Land, Vice President of the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, District Manager for JCPenney’s and was the owner of Annabelle’s, a women’s cloth-ing boutique, for many years.

Joy is a graduate of the Rice University Non-Profit Leadership Continuing Education program, Fort Bend Chamber Leadership program and is currently enrolled in the Fort Bend Chamber’s Non-Profit Leadership Class of 2013. She has received numerous awards for her achieve-ments in both the non-profit and profit sectors over the past 15 years.

Joy lives in Sugar Land with her hus-band, Dennis. They have 4 children and 8½ grandchildren.

Joy B. Dowell

Neeta Sane

FBC Women’s Center announces new director of PennyWise Resale Centers

Helene N. Dang

Leading immigration law firm FosterQuan appoints three new partners

FosterQuan LLP, one of the nation’s largest immigration law firms, recently announced that three firm attorneys have been named to the partnership: Helene N. Dang, Delisa J. Futch and Avalyn Castillo Langemeier.

HCC Trustee Neeta Sane earns an MBA


Fort Bend County and the Chancheng District of Foshan City of the People’s Republic of China, on November 18, 2011,

signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote friendly cooperation and friendship.

The MOU, signed in Foshan City by County Judge Bob Hebert and Liu Donghau, CEO of the Chancheng District, will facilitate further communications and cooperation in areas of economics and trade, culture and sport, and environmental protection. It provides for the exchange of views on issues of common interest as well as the exploration of possible collaborative projects that will benefit both Fort Bend County and Foshan City. The MOU will allow the two agencies to build further on the relationship that has been developed.

This initiative began in late 2010 when Judge Hebert formed the Fort Bend County

Friendship Committee, a group organized to explore and facilitate the establishment of a “Sister Community” relationship that will enhance our understanding of the Chinese culture and heritage, while providing potential benefits to the Fort Bend economy. Fort Bend residents participating on the

Fort Bend signs memorandum of understanding with Foshan City

Sugar Land8410 Hwy 90AStafford 3531 S. MainMissouri City3600 FM 1092(713) 388-7600 FrostBank.com

Friendship Committee include George Chang, Michael Liu, Gary Lo, Howard Paul, Allison Wen, Daniel Wong and Jeff Wiley of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council.

County Judge Bob Hebert stated, “I was very impressed with the energy and forward-thinking exhibited by the representatives of Foshan, a 1,500 year old city of 4.5 million residents. The Chancheng District, with 1.1 million residents, comprises the business center of the greater Foshan municipality. This MOU is a great first step in building a long-term relationship with a Chinese community sharing many of our goals and objectives.”

Foshan is a modern city with a long history dating back to approximately 1,500 years located in the northern part of the Pearl River plain, approximately 12 miles from Guangzhou in Guangdong Province. It is made up of five districts: Chancheng, Shunde, San-shui, Nanhai and Gaoming Districts. The government seat is located in Chancheng District. Foshan is a vital part of an active economic zone stretching from Guangzhou in the east to Hong Kong and Macau in the south and was one of the earliest Chinese ports to engage in foreign trade after China initiated its open door policy. Besides fishing and farming, the local craftsmen are world renowned for their skills in making ceramics. Foshan is a national commercial center for Chinese ceramic products and furniture manufacturing; as well as a cultural center for ceramics, Cantonese opera and the martial arts.

http://www.frostbank.com


H Local AgentH Local AdvertisingH Local Results

Real estate agentsthat SELL HOMES advertise them in The Star

281.690.42004655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 • Stafford, TX 77477

Charter schools are making a mark in Fort Bend County.

Some 425 students are enrolled in the Harmony

Science Academy West Houston, at 22400 Grand Corner in Katy at SH 99, next door to Fort Bend County Precinct 3’s offices.

This school, grades 1 through 8, is the 36th and latest of Harmony Public Schools in Texas , and had its official ribbon-cutting ceremony in 2011, with welcoming remarks by Texas State Senator Glenn Hegar (R-Katy), the featured speaker.

This school opened last August 22 at the same time that Harmony High School of Science Sugar Land – the 35th Harmony Public School -- opened at 13522 West Airport Boulevard.

This ribbon-cutting date was selected to coincide with the academy’s first school-wide science fair which was visited by Senator Hegar, Katy Area Chamber of Commerce

President Ann Hodge, Katy Area Economic Development President and CEO Lance LaCour and other officials.

Science is the strong emphasis at this school which has 21 classrooms, 3 science labs, 2 computer labs and a library in its 41,000-square foot two-story building.

Senator Hegar commended school officials and teachers for their “system of values and quality education,” and told the young students to “keep your dreams alive.”

Harmony area superintendent Harun Karan also spoke. Elgin Dogan (pronounced doh-wahn) is school principal.

These two schools in Katy and Sugar Land are the first in Fort Bend County. Harmony has 11 other schools in the Greater Houston area, and schools in all major Texas communities , the first ones in 2001. Harmony Public Schools now boast a total enrolment in Texas at 20,000 students, with some 30,000 on a waiting list. (There are 321 students on a waiting list for the

Katy and Fort Bend students making marks in charter schools

Katy school).And, there are more Harmony schools

to come. The U.S.. Department of Education announced last September that it has granted $5 million to HPS over the next three years. HPS received $1.4 million in 2011, with $1.4 million more coming in 2012 and more than $2 million in 2013. “ The $5 million paves the way for seven new HPS campuses,” said Texas Superintendent Dr. Soner Tarim. Locations of the next seven schools have not been announced.

All Harmony schools offer strong math and science-focuses curriculum, Dr. Tarim said, but the schools also offer advanced government and communications classes, in addition to advanced placement classes for high school students. Harmony claims its students have a 100 per cent college acceptance rate, and 0 per cent dropout rate. For more information about HPS and charter schools, visit www.harmonytx.org.

http://www.fortbendstar.com


Data Beat


DBA (Assumed Names) (+) = More Names

This is a sample of the Assumed Names (DBAs) filed at the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office for November 2011. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.tx.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 315 Assumed Names with Notary Fee for month of November. There were also 77 Assumed Names without a notary fee.

Hernandez Sonia (+)Jason Auto Sale13810 Beechnut St Ste C 77083

King ChinenyeOdenigbo Houston15770 Bellaire Blvd #1309 77083

Gilbert Louis (+)Gilbert & Associates5014 Hearth Hollow Ln 77479

Destn2succeed LLCDestn2succeed LLC9203 Highway 6 South Suite 124-104 77083

Reyes Joann (+)In & Out Bail Bonds1202 Front St 77469

Shah Ashok KumarEdata Library.Com2515 Willow Springs Ln 77479

Odili Anthony (+)Lucky Medical Supply12808 W Airport Ste 325 77478

Lopez FreddyUptown Towing5514 Hickory Harvest Dr 77407

Badheka Roopal (+)Sugar Land Web Services7106 Palge Court 77479

Royal Beauty IncCreatif Spa And Salon3219 Hwy 6 77478

Ladd Terrence JosephMo City Cd’s1735 Texas Parkway 77489

Blankenship ThaddeusStafford Music630 Fm 1092 #400 77447

Miller MarieSkidgee Enterprises3406 Ft Richmond Dr 77406

Crow Camille (+)Cdl Designs12201 Fm 2759 Rd 77469

Pena Antonio JrGulf Coast Panthers1702 Baylor Ave 77414

Brackens ChristinaGod Given Girls6623 Castleview Ln 77489

Chu Wing KaiUncle Lee’s Cafe9203 Hwy 6 S #122 77083

Momin Renish (+)Spark Distributors5119 Beacon Pt 77479

Medina Rodrigo CRjs Unlimited LLC.3411 5Th Street #34 77477

Fernandez EdwinLook Good Feel Good Barbershop3766 Cartwright Rd 77459

Bridgett Memorial Healthcare IncBridge Kidz9900 Westpark Dr #264 77063

Nwachan TonyTender Care Therapeutics16903 Midnight Dawn Dr 77407

Mayes Mia (+)New Beginnings Business Centers5722 Village Way Dr 77493

Tran Lanh Ngoc (+)Elegant Nails & Spa4504 Highwa 6 77478

Mercier Christal G(Otherz) Others Trash Our TreasurePo Box 1243 77459

Jackson Cynthia EJackson Tax Services1310 Turtle Creek Dr 77489

Amiry AliCalliope Investment LLC13820 Lexington Blvd 77478

Tucker Steven BOld School Machine818 Spring Valley Ct 77479

Bottom LydiaTattooed Lady Productions12006 Alston Dr 77477

Alert Force EmsMedline LLC (+)4010 High Hollow Dr 77082

Vagher Mehmood ASean Enterprises8414 South Hwy 6 77083

Rohatgi Irma (+)International Education Professionals1618 Lake Charlotte Ln 77406

Rohatgi Irma (+)Genealogy Plus +1618 Lake Charlotte Ln 77406

Macedo MargaritaTaquitos 4 Hermanos8111 Solana Dr 77083

Star Sub Group LLCFirehouse Subs1315 Pendergrass Trail 77479

Smolen James JSmolen Associates2122 N Fountain Valley 77459

Yankacy Michael ERainmanPo Box 16607 77496

River Pointe Community ChurchRiver Pointe Church5000 Ransom Rd 77469

River Pointe Community ChurchRpc School of Rock5000 Ransom Rd 77469

Attack PovertyFriends Of North Richmond5000 Ransom Rd 77469

Attack PovertyFriends Of Uganda5000 Ransom Rd 77469

Putman MargiePremier Glass & MirrorPo Box 16489 77496

Washington Ezra HPower Gear Apparel3127 Quail Valley East 77489

Jackson Cynthia (+)Central Tax Services1310 Turtle Creek 77489

Chris Kidd Enterprises LLCDefeating Debt Club2914 Autumnglow Ct 77494

Chris Kidd Enterprises LLCNext Level Financial Coaching2914 Autumglow Ct 77494

Sagerider IncRanger Development1431 Lone Stirrup Dr 77406

Connelly HollyHolly Connelly Photography1710 Rambling Stone 77406

Howard JacobJudo Print3530 Junction Bend Ln 77494

Siyahead General Trading And Contracting CompanyFort Bend Building Maintenance1519 Crescent Oak Dr 77459

Kranz RichardPortfolio Management1319 Creekford Circle 77478

Payton LouisGigi’s Gifts2009 Briar Lane 77469

Henry DerrickIconx Photography and Video4519 S Ridgewalk Dr 77053

Mcgee JosephJoe Mcgee Insurance Agency13134 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 500 77478

Eddie Flores Security Inc (+)Arms Services Security1208 Moray Drive 77471

Eddie Flores Security IncArms Services Security1208 Moray Drive 77471

Dimare Joseph S IIIFrontier Loan & Pawn902 A Hwy 90 77406

Dimare Joseph S IIIGold Rush902 A Hwy 90 77406

Dimare Joseph S IIIA S A P Services902 B Hwy 90 77406

Dimare Joseph S IIIAuto Exchange902 B Hwy 90 77406

Dimare Joseph S IIIHouston Gold & Silver Exchange902 B Hwy 90 77406

Soler Horacio ATotal Insurance Company1131 Morning Mist Ct 77498

Perez Josephine MYour Home In Our Hands2735 1/2 Fifth 77477

Pantry Stockers-Houston LLCPantry Stockers - Houston1962 Eastmont Lane 77489

Calliope Investment LLCAuto Check 1113820 Lexington Blvd 77478

Nguyen LeeLee Nguyen Agency13500 W Airport Blvd Suite D 77498

Shaw SakinahChocolateisnatural21811 Wildwood Park Rd #914 77469

Jones WilliamDependable Trucking Logistics4040 Crow Rd #1205 77706

Uvalle Michelle (+)Majestic Creations Photography2926 Copper Cliff Dr 77449

Tomchesson JimmyEstate Antique Sales Com25910 S Lakefair Dr 77406

Palacios AngelinaJrg Ranch Cookers1114 Easy Street 77471

Ibe JoyceUdo Daughter’s Organization Houston11569 Hwy 6 S #165 77498

Desai Karamsinh O (+)Urmi Kd Engineering & Construction Company2710 Grants Lake Blvd # T8 77479

Elk Investments LLCTexas Diesels & Imports7215 Fm 359 77441

Collins Christopher Allen (+)3 Kings Promotions7110 Greatwood Glen Ct 77479

George Udo GibsonBrighter Future Learning Academy17606 Meadow Crossing Ln 77095

IEITEverest Academy610 Brand Lane 77477


Data Beat


DBA (Assumed Names) (+) = More Names

Wilson JeannettaPretty Painter Designs1903 Ripple Creek Dr 77489

Arevalo Javier (+)Texas Tires & Mecanic Shop1604 1St Street 77471

Karnowski RyanSienna Sprikes Baseball Club3514 Marion Ct 77459

Ackerman Hal KirkHal Kirks Handi-Worx919 Mayweather Ln 77406

Muharib Sheba1040 Taxstore610 Murphy Rd Ste 101 77477

Muharib ShebaAable Bail Bonds (+)610 Murphy Rd Ste 101 77477

Teles AnnetteGroomingdales Pet Salon A. T.1319 Brazoswood Place 77406

Monwe ObiefunaAdams Ems2715 Darbybrook Dr 77545

Scarber Kristine Dumas (+)Specialty Patent Research902 Emerald Glen Ct 77479

Lott MarvaletteIntimate Toy’s UnlimitedP O Box 1171 77497

Perez KennethUrban Muse2745 Town Center Blvd N. 77479

Alidina Sajidali SVip Mobile Sound & Hid8931 Diamond Lake Ln 77083

Marufo Alma RBrisa Travel and Services2315 Valley Bend Dr 77489

Berryman CatherineWhimsy Wreath Designs8215 Oyster Creek Dr 77459

Assurex Red Property Preservation LLCAssurtex Property Preservation21703 Lakeview Road 77430

Stein WhitneySinia Paige33410 Reynolds Rd 77476

Lewis Robert BSolaron Transportation Services17110 Costero Dr 77083

Green Nuvia Estel (+)Ready For Pleasure2601 Cartwright #233 77489

Green Nuvia Estel (+)21 Day Productions2601 Cartwright Rd #266 77489

Williams TanyaTiny Toes Daycare13418 Linden St 77498

Dathorne PaulDathorne’s Land Scapin6807 Trigate 77489

Wicks-Dathorne SabrinaYour Family Taxes6807 Trigate 77489

Thakkar MukeshHarsh’s Gurukrupa LLC DBA KEP Food Store5334 Fenwick Way Ct 77479

Bhr Foods Inc (+)Nizam’s Kitchen5211 Highway 6 Ste F 77459

Pesina Ramiro (+)Nu Vision Custom Cabinets1835 Green Gate Dr 77471

Matt Mary KarenKc2 Sport Horses7907 Blackhorse Cove 77459

Keys-Durisseau Dawn Michaela (+)Our LighthousePo Box 841304 77584

Harrison Warren JrWarren Harrison Jr Nursing Services2018 Village Park Dr 77489

Oliva Maria (+)Heavenly Beauty Salon3302 Ave H #202 77471

Ferrell Laura JaneSands Of Time Jewelry1795 Intracoastal Dr 77414

Kasmir Roy (+)Kasmir Circuits3314 Fairchild St 77461

Salazar JohannaRodriguez Lawn Service13231 Webb Ln 77478

Yankacy Michael EA. A. Pleasant Surroundings Co.Po Box 16607 77496

Miller Colton (+)Rsvp Local 774792707 Pineneedle Ln 77581

ACNNElocumexchange3 Regents Park 77479

Tran KimKimd Tran21914 Oleaster Springs Ln 77469

Price Jerry D (+)Precise Medical Supply8323 SW Frwy #470 77074

Sowemimo RaymondAvalon Medical Institute301 S 9th St Ste 114 77469

Bialonowicz ZdzislawPoltex1419 Mcgee Lake Ct 77407

Ratliff Steven D (+)The Church Of The Living Word And School (+)3011 Rimrock 77459

Ali Abdullah HassanGulf Placement Advisors Limited23011 Crystal Downs Ct 77450

Ali Abdullah HassanSME Developers Limited23011 Crystal Downs Ct 77450

Vasquez Rene JrTrendy Wreaths6702 Anderson Ct 77461

Kuykendall LetitiaJah’s Helping Hands3718 Kildare Dr 77047

Adams KenrickThe Little School of Elohim (+)1535 Kenforest 77489

Rojas Alejandro (+)Universal Body Shop15934 Old Richmond 77498

Bernstein BrettBerstein Brothers Tennis Company6019 Kelsey Place Ct 77479

Rojas KarinaMy Impact Staging20703 Whitevine Way 77450

Rojas KarinaKarina’s Jewelry, Bows & Things20703 Whitevine Way 77450

Randy Rose Builders IncLevel Pro Foundation Repair2601 Cartwright Rd #D 77459

Randy Rose Builders IncLevel Pro Home Services2601 Cartwright #D 77459

Thomas KellieProject Princess8947 Dawnridge Dr 77071

Ibrahim MohamadExpert Motor Group2638 5th St #10 77477

Garza Ricardo R (+)Patron Construction5903 Stevens Creek Ct 77469

Gutierrez Diana E (+)Pw Ranch23060 Westheimer Pkwy 77494

Nguyen Tom T Md Pa (+)Sugar Land Advanced Ob-Gyn Center, P.A.9722 Us Highway 90A Suite 207 77478

Cardona Emilio AU R Houston7404 Town Center Boulevard #532 77471

Hudson Jill M (+)The Rocking Horse Nursery School (+)7310 Katy Fulshear Rd 77441

Sandlin Maria Gloria (+)Zeeman Construction226 Rochelle 77469

Ulloa Esteban1St Foundation Repair7607 Miller Glen 77077

Mai HanhJosephine Mai PhotographyPo Box 649 77478-0649

Ismaili Anwar1Stopjeweler2235 Alassio Isle Court 77459

Spotlight Beauty IncElite Salon & Spa7320 Us 90A Suite 240 77498

Preston Herchel (+)Allen Boone Humphries Robinson Llp21811 Wildwood Park Rd 77469

Crosswhite William ToddDesantodd Management Corp2726 Marcantile Dr 77471

Are-Ago Lola HCoastal Transportation7431 Bannone Field 77407

Brotamonte Louis (+)Elms St. Sales419 Arbor Green Ln 77469

Nicisa Enterprises IncCountry Place Conoco2620 Mchard Rd 77584

Lai Dung TSienna Nails8817 Highway 6 #800 77459

Williams Hallie M (+)Heart To Heart Home Care16330 Quail Place 77489

Martinez DesiraeShear Colors By Desirae2745 Town Center Blvd 77479

Thoppil Mary (+)Hope Nursing11003 Hundred Bridge Ln 77498

Lo Holding LLCHouston Transit Service17424 W Grand Parkway #282 77479

Thomas Lillie J (+)L.T.’S Delivery Service6526 Sonoma Street 77053

Bandhu GunjanBeautiful Daughters14034 Cobalt Glen Dr 77498

Amine Rayyan (+)Educational Statistical Advisors7606 Old English Ct 77479

Lopez MichaelRosenberg Carpet and Flooring Center1006 1St St 77471

Lai YookhiamJade 16812142 Huntington Venture Dr 77099

King Marilyn EOcean Creations735 Pr 675 77414

Droubie Andrew CraigCasbah Mediterranean Buffet11034 Pierce Valley Dr 77469

Zermeno Mark Anthony Jr (+)Z Best Lawns14226 Nelson Bay Ct 77498


Data Beat


December 2011 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports

Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary reports present data about monthly local sales and use tax allocation payments to local sales taxing jurisdictions. These net payments represent monies identified for the local jurisdictions since the previous month’s distribution. These reports will allow you to compare cur-rent year sales and use tax payments with the previous year. When used with other local economic indicators, they may help indicate present and future trends.

Arcola 34,750.35 23,968.53 44.98% 234,387.70 245,445.33 -4.50%Beasley 5,312.57 7,644.37 -30.50% 80,087.36 69,566.03 15.12%Fulshear 48,132.72 26,074.44 84.59% 494,068.14 376,066.44 31.37%Kendleton 341.80 1,135.51 -69.89% 17,156.65 15,768.56 8.80%Meadows Place 71,485.31 72,473.63 -1.36% 920,202.07 967,092.05 -4.84%Missouri City 479,931.94 418,948.94 14.55% 5,956,462.43 5,968,573.40 -0.20%Needville 26,771.68 29,571.85 -9.46% 357,277.14 362,213.12 -1.36%Orchard 2,896.88 3,254.90 -10.99% 43,170.42 46,956.80 -8.06%Pleak 3,590.53 6,450.55 -44.33% 48,460.48 73,391.33 -33.96%Richmond 309,694.93 276,681.99 11.93% 3,915,827.43 4,085,384.91 -4.15%Rosenberg 859,395.53 795,883.66 7.98% 11,408,105.17 11,115,621.66 2.63%Simonton 8,321.92 7,725.62 7.71% 140,990.33 114,148.27 23.51%Stafford 1,066,437.63 941,055.34 13.32% 13,491,497.01 12,876,353.77 4.77%Sugar Land 3,196,331.91 2,917,325.40 9.56% 39,990,419.87 37,651,422.81 6.21%Thompsons 3,458.56 0.00 U/C 26,152.27 25,926.26 0.87%

COUNTY TOTAL 6,116,854.26 5,528,194.73 10.64% 77,124,264.47 73,993,930.74 4.23%

County/City Net Payment Comp Payment % Change 2011 Payments 2010 Payments PercentFort Bend This Period Prior Year To Date To Date Change

Houston 39,943,669.79 36,237,643.81 10.22% 507,928,839.68 473,149,940.56 7.35%San Antonio 16,380,971.64 15,721,718.26 4.19% 220,171,017.40 208,322,620.88 5.68%Dallas 15,348,266.09 15,217,894.20 0.85% 215,394,907.63 204,732,897.99 5.20%Austin 11,220,320.68 10,561,205.98 6.24% 144,161,036.13 137,309,212.27 4.99%Fort Worth 7,567,172.44 7,724,914.93 -2.04% 105,424,832.05 100,569,555.26 4.82%Arlington 6,860,196.77 6,728,431.37 1.95% 86,127,966.55 83,143,848.14 3.58%El Paso 5,197,034.90 5,230,500.65 -0.63% 72,347,295.53 68,348,226.83 5.85%Plano 7,542,483.67 4,218,416.24 78.79% 66,325,562.58 58,888,948.10 12.62%Round Rock 4,877,205.87 4,524,822.44 7.78% 63,030,581.94 61,644,122.07 2.24%Corpus Christi 4,025,784.11 4,286,806.03 -6.08% 62,721,435.71 55,991,659.54 12.01%Amarillo 4,514,598.03 4,362,865.68 3.47% 61,805,523.23 56,863,740.36 8.69%McAllen 3,864,032.98 3,913,167.23 -1.25% 54,504,004.15 53,947,632.84 1.03%Lubbock 3,944,238.59 3,659,196.64 7.78% 51,652,170.82 49,404,456.68 4.54%Irving 3,113,922.06 3,521,042.56 -11.56% 47,722,284.95 44,562,080.98 7.09%Midland 4,004,385.83 3,082,857.16 29.89% 46,343,984.72 35,964,741.08 28.85%Frisco 3,497,198.04 2,926,429.31 19.50% 44,280,590.05 40,303,105.68 9.86%Sugar Land 3,196,331.91 2,917,325.40 9.56% 39,990,419.87 37,651,422.81 6.21%Abilene 2,882,969.58 2,570,580.67 12.15% 38,955,236.07 33,244,725.98 17.17%McKinney 2,349,361.37 2,375,373.72 -1.09% 37,573,852.61 32,081,839.15 17.11%Grand Prairie 3,005,173.20 2,747,390.62 9.38% 37,452,871.83 36,047,397.62 3.89%

City Net Payment Comp Payment % Change 2011 Payments 2010 Payments Percent This Period Prior Year To Date To Date Change

Top 20 City Sales and Use Tax Comparison Summary - December 2011Please note that Sugar Land is 17th in sales tax revenues in the state.


Data Beat


Commercial Building Permits

Some significant building permits in cities in Fort Bend during the month of November

ADDRESS TYPE OF PERMIT VALUE OWNER/CONTRACTOR

MISSOURI CITY211 Present St Commercial Alteration $90,000 St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catolic/Supertech Construction8720 Hwy 6 Res D New Commercial $480,000 Hwy 6/ Sienna Parkway LTD/Arrowmont Constructors2447 FM 1092 Commercial Alteration $12,000 Zoya Enterprises LTD/Veedone Construction, LLC

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial) 11/01/11-11/30/11 $582,000

ROSENBERG7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#10 Commercial Building $1,470,000 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#9 Commercial Building $1,470,000 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#2 Commercial Building $1,470,000 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#1 Commercial Building $1,470,000 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#4 Commercial Building $964,804 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#3 Commercial Building $964,804 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#8 Commercial Building $875,001 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#7 Commercial Building $875,001 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. BLDG#6 Commercial Building $875,001 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. - Amenity Commercial Building $500,450 Dolce Living Investments LLC7145 Reading Rd. - Garage#1 Commercial Building $34,035 Dolce Living Investments LLC3401 Avenue H Commercial Building $975,000 Chevron14401 Southwest Fwy #100 Commercial Building $450,000 Panera Bread4707 Hwy 36 S #B Commercial Building $180,000 Issa918 San Jacinto St Commercial Building $80,000 Bull Creek Cafe & Grill

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial) 11/01/11-11/30/11 $12,670,246

STAFFORD12713 Royal Dr Commercial Building $48,000 Analysts Inc/PCA Company4800 Sugar Grove Blvd 450 Commercial Building $129,678.39 Plant Performance Service/BNC Construction LP12550 Jebbia Ln Commercial Building $500,000 Int’l Buddhist Progress Society/B. Bell Builders12735 Dairy Ashford Commercial Building $364,950 PBV-USA Inc/ Meridian Constructors LLC4230 Greenbriar Dr Commercial Building $500,000 Puffer Sweiven/ Arch-Con Corporation

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial) 11/01/11-11/30/11 $1,570,628.39

SUGAR LAND1110 Industrial Blvd Commercial Addition $107,592 Excel Technologies International/August Companies12553 W Airport Blvd Commercial Addition $125,000 Avera Commerce Center Sugar Land/1075 W Park One Dr Ste 200 Commercial Buildout $379,100 Bournewood Partners, LP/Apollo Construction9722 US Hwy 90A Ste 160 Commercial Buildout $102,106 Nguyen Family Partnership, LTD/Nu-World Construction16230 City Walk Commercial Buildout $97,815 Town center Lakeside, LTD/Penner Construction1201 Creek Way Dr Ste C Commercial Buildout $110,000 Medistar Sugar Land Medical Center/HM General Contractors636 State Hwy 6 Ste 300 Commercial Buildout $64,046 Hwy 6 & 90, LTD/Skyline General Contracting510 State Hwy 6 Ste 180 Commercial Buildout $120,000 Hwy 6 & 80, LTD/Art Star Construction Inc2150 Town Square PL Ste 390 Commercial Buildout $159,963 Town Center Lakeside, LTD/D E Harvey Builders, Inc13131 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 200 Commercial Buildout $103,956 GPI-M Sugar Creek, LP/Camden Construction, Inc1531 State Hwy 6 Ste 125 Commercial Buildout $126,329 Mody Properties, LLC/Dau Builders5079 Sweetwater Blvd Commercial New $1,311,747 Sugar Land Properties, Inc/Lincoln Builders, Inc12501 Reed Rd Commercial New $410,000 Pijnnaken Real Estate Holdings/Punditz LLC4971 Sweetwater Blvd Commercial Remodel $158,155 Columbia Retail Sweetwater PLZ/Diversified General Contractor

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential) 11/01/11-11/30/11 $3,863,710


Risk is at the heart of every start-up and she is no stranger to those ups and downs of a new business venture. But with a strong patent, she has brought her company to an important turning point.

“It became clear to us that expansion was our only option,” she said. Like a shark, a business continues its movement – backward or forward – it moves. The products had been perfected, the market research was deeply understood, and ability to increase production was secured. The only thing left, before an aggressive marketing campaign, was to manage inventory in such a way that fulfilling large orders would be flawless. Inventory capitalization can be a challenge.

Seeking venture capital angels is tough in any market, but especially so in this one. Teri also had a business to run. Her company’s products have appeared in SkyMall Magazine for over four years, by invitation. Business development, production and order fulfillment kept her busy.

So, Teri and her board of directors began to consider the option of going public. No, not in the lofty way a Facebook

Oxygen Orchard brings perks of promise

W hen asked to sum up her experience as an entrepreneur, Teri Mathis tabbed risk-

taking. “An old Russian proverb says it well: He who doesn’t take risks, doesn’t drink champagne.” An ambitious sort, she decided to go full-tilt-boogie toward that risk.

She and her husband, Lee, began with nothing more than a germ of an idea. Due diligence took them to the next step, then the next. Ignoring the statistics that 99.9% of inventions fail, and with ten years of next steps, Teri is ready to take a big one.

Her company, Oxygen Orchard, Inc. is based in Rosenberg and is the manufacturer of a line of electric devices that improve drinking water quality.

or a Google might do it. She began to search for a public “shell” that had traded on the Over-the-Counter pink sheets.

In good times, small pink sheet companies are operational and sometimes even profitable. Shareholders love to gamble and buy stock at very low prices in the hope that their choice was an ingenious one and that someday, they can sell their shares at a huge profit. High risk, but high reward.

But in times of economic turmoil, many of those micro cap companies falter and fail, leaving their public shell available for the next big thing. Like Oxygen Orchard. Teri says “The number of shells now available is not extraordinary, but they are not scarce as hens teeth any longer.”

Her first career was in the financial brokerage business. She started with Merrill Lynch and after working for Paine Webber, she finished her financial career with a venture capital brokerage firm, so she has familiarity with the marketplace and how to work it. The pink sheet marketplace can be treacherous – she understands that – but with trusted advisors, she is ready for the risk.

Her book, Water: The New Wisdom, which is a compilation of her own extensive research, will be released in 2012, and a press release will be issued to a wide base of interested parties.

So Teri and hubby had an idea, researched it, drew endless designs with dozens of modifications, found a prototype maker, made more modifications, obtained a patent, raised capital for molds, ordered custom parts, devised a workable assembly process and began to market the product. Substantial risk at every stage.

But now, Oxygen Orchard is poised to expand its operations and to hire Fort Bend county workers. Oxygen Orchard will have a bright future as an industry leader in an industry they have helped create.

The risk/reward ratio has worked favorably for the Fort Bend couple. For more information, visit www.OxygenOrchard.com.

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Terri & Lee Mathis


H ouston-based developer Vista Equities Group (VEG) welcomes Peloton Computer Enterprises, Inc.

to LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch in Katy. The global drilling and well data software company has leased 10,800 square feet of office space for its new Houston headquarters.

Peloton will relocate from its current CityWest Boulevard location to LaCenterra in spring 2012. According to management, the company plans to more than double its current Houston staff of 18 employees over the next five years.

“Quality of life and convenience were important factors when we were evaluating sites,” says Monty Meloche, president of Peloton. “Many of our employees currently reside in Katy because of the great neighborhoods and exceptional schools.

Add LaCenterra’s mix of shops and restaurants, and it was the clear choice.”

Peloton’s decision to move west marks the fourth such company to locate in the Katy area this year. “With close proximity to the Energy Corridor and the availability of talent and facilities, more and more energy software and technology companies are calling the Katy area home,” says Katy Economic Development Council President and CEO, Lance LaCour.

“Energy software companies like Peloton, TISA, SafeKick and Jurat Software are helping establish an energy software cluster here. We appreciate Peloton’s confidence and investment in the Katy area. We want to do whatever we can to ensure the company’s continued grow and future success,” he adds.

Peloton’s history dates back to 1991, when the company began development of WellView®, a comprehensive tool that

allows oil and gas companies to manage their data from request to drill through abandonment. Today, Peloton offers MasterView®, WellView®, SiteView®, RigView®, ProdView™ and the Schematic Component. More than 200 oil and gas companies throughout the world rely on Peloton’s technology to make better-informed decisions and to be better-focused oil and gas companies.

Peloton has been self-funded to date and has managed its expansion carefully while maintaining the quality standards that are fundamental to its future. The company has grown from a two-person operation in 1991 to a staff of 85 employees worldwide with offices around the globe in cities including Aberdeen, Amsterdam, Beijing, Bridgetown, Calgary, Dubai, Houston, Jakarta and Moscow. For more information, visit www.peloton.com.

Vista Equities Group brings Peloton to LaCenterra at Cinco RanchHouston-based software company leases 10,800 square feet of office space in Katy

One of the nation’s most comprehensive chemical disclosure rules for hydraulic fracturing chemicals has been

adopted. The rule will require Texas oil and gas operators to disclose on a national public website all the ingredients and water volumes used to hydraulically fracture wells in Texas.

“With the passage of this mandatory Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid Disclosure Rule, Texans can be assured they will know more about what is going into the ground for fracturing than what goes into a can of soda,” says Texas Railroad Commissioner Elizabeth Jones

At the Commission’s public hearing on October 5, Dr. Andrew Barron, the Welch Chair of Chemistry at Rice University, testified that, “Such a rule [like the adopted frac fluid disclosure rule] is not required for our foods…it is my belief that the proposed rule offers significantly greater information

and hence better protection to the public than the FDA [Food and Drug Administration] provides with the labeling of common food and drink.”

The Hydraulic Frac Fluid Disclosure Rule will be required for wells that the Railroad Commission has issued an initial drilling permit on or after February 1, 2012. Before the rule passed, Texas operators conducting hydraulic fracturing were voluntarily entering chemical data into the public website FracFocus (fracfocus.org) for about half of all wells in Texas undergoing hydraulic fracturing.

Jones stated, “With support from Governor Perry, House Energy Resources Chairman Jim Keffer, the industry and environmental groups like the Environmental Defense Fund and the Sierra Club, we have successfully fulfilled our commitment from earlier this year to ensure that Texans know every single ingredient used in the hydraulic fracturing process. The Railroad Commission

continues to require best practices for responsible energy exploration and production while protecting the environment and the public’s health and safety.”

Chairman Jones made implementation of the rule a top priority after testifying to Congress and the Secretary of Energy’s Advisory Board last spring on the same issue. Hydraulic fracturing has been an environmentally safe process used for more than 60 years in Texas. The rule will enhance the transparency of hydraulic fracturing, a technique pioneered in Texas to increase shale gas and oil production, that has helped Texas remain the nation’s top energy producer.

Jones recently participated in a roundtable discussion with the Secretary of Energy Advisory Board’s Natural Gas Subcommittee and also testified before the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology regarding hydraulic fracturing.

Hydraulic frac fluid disclosure rule adopted


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Economic Development

The Katy Area Economic Development Council (Katy Area EDC)www.KatyEDC.org - 281-396-2200The Katy Area Economic Development Council (Katy Area EDC) , a 501 (c) 6 non-profit corporation, is a full service economic development corporation representing the Katy ISD area (Katy Area). Katy Area EDC : recruits new businesses, helps retain and expand existing businesses, helps create new businesses, facilitates the construction of business infrastructure and helps improve the quality of place and quality of life of the Katy Area.

Country Clubs

Riverbend Country [email protected]. Tricia Hawks, 1214 Dulles Avenue, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, Riverbend Country Club is just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas. Established in 1957, Riverbend continues its tradition as Fort Bend County’s only member owned club. Whether you’re looking for championship golf, fine dining, pools, tennis, fitness facilities or a wide variety of social and golf activities Riverbend is definitely the place to belong.

The Houstonian Golf & Country Club281-494-4245www.houstoniangolf.com Nicole Scarbrough, Membership Private golf & country club, *Limited membership available.

Fire Extinguisher Service

Gillen Fire Extinguisher Service Commercial/Residential281-342-6969www.GillenServices.comGillen Fire Extinguisher Service provides a full line of fire extinguisher inspections, sales and services, as well as lighted exit sign inspections and service. Our highly trained staff can even provide fire extinguisher training for your employees. For all of your safety needs, call Gillen Fire Extinguisher.

Financial Products & Services

Sugar Creek Financial Group - [email protected]. Robert H. Roy, ChFC, Fax: 281-565-2277, 12946 Dairy Ashford #430, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Life, Health, Pensions, Investments for businesses and individuals.

Floral

Flowers By Tiffany LLC - 281-208-8681www.FlowersByTiffanyStafford.com508 F.M. 1092, Suite D, Stafford, TX 77477. 2011 CMUS Power Award Winner – Internet Customer Service Award. Beautiful Flowers for all occasions, Weddings, Events, Funerals, Plants, Fruit & Gourmet Baskets. Member of the Better Business Bureau and Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Mention the Fort Bend Business Journal for a special discount.

Advertising

Fort Bend Business Journal281-690-4200www.fortbendstar.comFort Bend’s ONLY business publication.

Fort Bend Focus - 281-690-4242www.fortbendfocus.comFort Bend’s ONLY feature magazine Direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions.

Fort Bend Star - 281-690-4200www.fortbendstar.comWe have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER Newspaper.

Auto Repair / Maintenance

Auto Central-Automotive Service & [email protected]. David Fauvelle, 2526 Fifth Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Fax: 281-499-0183, Fast, friendly and professional automotive repair. AAA approved auto repair. Charlton’s Body Repair - 281-499-1126www.charltonsbodyrepair.com. Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th St., Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-499-1694, Complete collision repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert computer color matching. Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service. 79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud!

Colony One Auto Center - 281-980-4440www.colonyoneauto.comRod Tate, 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-261-0048, Complete state of the art automotive repair & maintenance facility.

First Tire & Automotive - 281-313-2886www.firsttireandauto.comCraig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations. 960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified. Ask about our Fleet Service!

Banks

Vista Bank - 281-325-5000www.vistabank.comFax: 281-325-5050. Fort Bend County only. 4690 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land 77479

The State Bank of Texas - [email protected]. Nicki Black, 13010 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-494-6747, , Locally and independently owned - our prime interest is you!

Sterling Bank - Fort Bend - 281-277-010012840 Southwest Freeway, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-277-0223, Serving owner-operated businesses with local decision makers.

Golf Carts / Mobility Scooters

CBC Golf Cart Services, Inc. - 281-494-1164Scooters by CBC - [email protected], 203 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land, TX 77498 (Behind Imperial Sugar). CBC offers Sales, Service, New & Used, Rentals and Parts for two lines of products, GOLF CARTS and MOBILITY SCOOTERS. Authorized Dealer for Fairplay and Pride Mobility products. fax 281-494-1189

Home Health Care

Texas State Healthcare 281-208-4344www.txstatehealthcare.comWhat we do: Skilled Nursing - Home Health Aide Physical/Speech/Occupational Therapies - Medical Social Worker assisting with durable medical equipment needs and helping to provide Resources & Services in the Community - Wound Care - Catheter Care - Diabetic Care Lab Services - IV Therapy and more... “Hometown Nurses Helping Hometown People”

Insurance Agencies

Insurance Solutions of Texas281-565-2222 • 281-341-5060www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.comJay Harris, Auto, Home, Business, Flood Insurance. 14140 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. 281-565-2222, Fax 281-565-3333. 2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-341-5060, Fax 281-341-5558.

Jewelers

The Gold Connection Jewelers281-344-9900 • We Buy Goldwww.goldconnection.netFull service jewelry store. Diamonds, Gold & Silver Jewelry and Watches. Repairs done on the premises. Custom design are our specialty. Front door parking. 206 Hwy 90A, Richmond, Texas 77406.

Landscaping / Lawn Care

JDT Lawn Care • 281-435-5408Commercial property maintenance and landscaping service, fully insured professionals offering superior customer service and accountability, owner/operator and all employees were born and raised in Fort Bend County. High quality service from the ground up!

Magazine

Fort Bend Business Journal • 281-690-4200www.fortbendstar.comFort Bend’s ONLY business publication. Reaching over 10,000 businesses monthly. The place to advertise to reach the vital Fort Bend County business community.

Fort Bend Focus - 281-690-4242Pearland Focus - 281-690-4242Focus on Women - 281-690-4242www.fortbendfocus.comFort Bend’s ONLY feature magazine Direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions.


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Medical Billing

Complete Business Solutions - 1-888-445-8609cbsolutions@callmykate.comwww.cbsbillingservices.comComplete Business Solutions, the medical billing professionals, is dedicated to improving your cash flow results. Our goals include: lower billing costs, savings of up to 50% by outsourcing with us, reduced rejection rates, faster payment of claims, average of 14 days response. To find out more about this and other services, visit our website for a FREE practice analysis and 50% off the initial set-up fee.

Medical Supplies

Synicare Medical - [email protected]. 20333 State Highway 249, Suite 200, Houston, TX 77070, Fax 888-397-1240. Synicare Medical is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs with professionalism and integrity. Synicare Medical specializes in durable medical equipment,medical supplies, and third party billing.We accept all private insurance and strive to meet the needs of every patient in a professional and caring way. Synicare Medical is owned and operated by Synicare Group LLC.

Nails

P&L Nails – Sugar Land • 281-277-5072PL Nails – Sienna Plantation • 281-778-8558PL Nails - Katy • 281-347-1122www.plnails.comProviding the most luxurious service available, PL Nails has Fort Bend county covered with locations in Sugar Land, Sienna Plantation, and Katy. Whether it be nails, body waxing, massage, or lots more, the expertly trained staff at PL Nails is committed to making your experience most pleasurable! Located at 4777 Sweetwater Blvd in the Kroger Shopping Center, Sugar Land, 281-277-5072. Located at 8880 Hwy 6 South, Suite 110 in the HEB Center, Missouri City, 281-778-8558. Located at 25681 Nelson Way in the HEB Center near Katy Mills Mall, Katy, 281-347-1122.

Newspaper

Fort Bend Star – 281-690-4200www.fortbendstar.comWe have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER Newspaper.

Open MRI

Upright MRI of Sugar Land – 281-494-0505www.mri911.comCLAUSTROPHOBIC? Upright MRI is the only True OPEN MRI in Sugar Land. We scan patients standing, sitting, or lying down. For the first time, patients can be scanned in weight-bearing postures and in their position of pain. It is ideal for patients who have difficulty lying down due to respiratory or cardiac problems. Mention this ad and receive $25 off your first scan. 2655 Cordes Drive #150, Sugar Land, 77479. Open Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

12 MONTHS LISTINGCALL 281-690-4204

Optometrists

Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, F.A.A.O 281-499-2600www.drwedemeyer.com 6026 Hwy. 6 Missouri City, TX 77459. Therapeutic Optometrist; Visual Perceptual / Binocular Therapy; medical management of eye infections and diseases. The office has a large selection of fashion frames.

Pediatric Therapy

MedCare Pediatric Group, LP • 713-773-5100www.medcarepediatrics.comOccupational, Physical, Speech Therapy at home or at Rehab Center located at 12371 S. Kirkwood, Stafford, TX 77477. We also provide in home nursing services. All services available in Houston and surrounding counties.)

Pest Control - Commercial / Residential

Gillen Pest Control281-342-6969 - Fort Bend979-532-5701 - Whartonwww.GillenPestControl.comFamily owned and operated in Fort Bend and Wharton Counties since 1963, Gillen Pest Control’s highly trained professionals know where bugs hide, what their eating and breeding habits are, and how to get rid of them. They try to avoid the use of chemicals inside by working with you to create a barrier on the outside of your home or business, thus keeping those unwanted pests at bay. From the first time we visit your home or business, you will recognize we are no ordinary pest control company!

Pharmacies

Ed’s Pharmacy - 281-499-4555Ed Sziy, 3740 Cartwright, Missouri City, TX 77459, Fax: 281-499-7088.

Physicians

Immunizations & Drug TestingIMU Southwest, The IMUnization Clinic281-313-7468 [email protected]. 3727 Greenbriar Dr. Suite 403, Stafford, TX 77477- Vaccines for children and adults for school, fertility, work, immigration, or travel needs. Daytime, Evening, and Saturday hours and no wait appointments available. Vaccine titers and Drug Testing for individuals or corporations. Certified Drug Testing Center & CDC Designated Yellow Fever Provider. We perform oral HIV testing also. Mobile on-site clinics available for churches and corporations.

Printers / Graphics

Star Printing - 281-690-4200www.fortbendstar.comWe professionally design and print flyers, postcards, brochures, magazines, newspapers and catalogs in high-quality digital graphics.

Real Estate / Residential

Colliers International, formerly Curtice Commercial Real Estate [email protected]. Kolbe M. Curtice, CCIM, CLS, 15999 City Walk Suite 250, Sugar Land Square located at U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494-3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment & Tenant Representation, 25 yrs exp. in Fort Bend.

Riverstone Development [email protected]. Tom Wilcox, 4855 Riverstone Blvd, Missouri City, Texas 77459, Fax: 281-499-8704, Luxury waterside living in Fort Bend from $200s to the many millions.

Jeanne Gregory, CRS, GRI [email protected]. 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Fax: 281-242-6754, Re/Max Southwest. Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation.

Jennifer Weaver, ABR, CRS, GRI281-207-5037www.jenniferweaver.comRE/MAX Southwest, 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Residential sales and corporate relocation since 1979.

Remodeling / Outdoor Living

Living Improvements281-499-7000www.living-improvements.comAWARD WINNING - 2010 Houston’s BEST “Outdoor Living Space” Living Improvements’ commitment to excellence makes us the perfect fit for your building needs. We have over 200 years cumulative in-house experience in the remodeling and construction industry making us highly skilled, professional and detail oriented striving to exceed our customer’s expectations. We feature outdoor living spaces, custom homes, interior and exterior renovations. Our commitment to excellence is just one of the reasons we have over 4,000 satisfied customers. SERVING FORT BEND & SURROUNDING COUNTIES FOR OVER 35 YEARS.

See more on page 58


Curtice, Managing Director of the Fort Bend office. “He is an outstanding young man and will be a valuable asset in assisting with our clients and properties.”

“Corbin provides character, quality and

professionalism to our Fort Bend Team. I am extremely pleased that he has joined Colliers” added Charles Herder, CoChairman of the Houston office.

Corbin is completing the work to become a licensed real estate broker in the State of Texas and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communications from Baylor University.

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To be listed call

at 281-690-4204

Staffing / Recruiting / Job Seeking Technical ProSourceMeeting Your IT Staffing Needs713-272-8800www.TechnicalProSource.comServing Fort Bend companies since 1989 by providing all levels of IT personnel, contract, contract to hire and direct-hire. We are the IT experts! To save our clients time we offer Video Resumes which allow you to move faster through the interview process. Recognized in Forbes magazine as a leading Staffing Firm Provider. Recognized in Texas Monthly as Most Dependable Staffing Firm and voted Best of Staffing by CareerBuilder. We look forward to helping with your staffing needs.

Storage Facilities

Summer Lakes Self Storage281.239.7199www.SummerLakesSelfStorage.com102 Benton Road @ FM 762 in the Richmond/Rosenberg area. Check out our monthly specials along with our unique facility and monthly community events. Happy New Year!

Video Services Star Video Studios 281-690-4280www.starvideoproductions.comFull-service video taping, editing and special effects for your business. Professional writing to finished commercials, training DVD’s, and corporate videos.

Windows / Sidings Aaron Schneider832-878-7444www.savemoresidingandwindows.comSave-More@Hotmail.comBusiness overview: Save-More Siding & Window Company is a premiere James Hardi Siding and Simonton Window firm. Our professionalism and attention to detail has set us apart from the rest. Call 832-878-7444 and deal direct with Aaron Schneider owner.

BRIAN COVAULT...continued from page 39

KOLBE CURTICE...continued from page 41

increase with developments which may have lower land/building ratios (which might require structured parking). The impact of that new construction, when converted to taxable real estate value and the economic stimuli stem-ming from the new businesses and companies opening in the development, will be huge for

Sugar Land and Fort Bend County. Kolbe M. Curtice CCIM, CLS is a licensed

Texas Real Estate Broker and is the Managing Di-rector of Colliers International - Fort Bend,15999 City Walk, Suite 250, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479. He can be reached at 281-494-4769 (office) or at [email protected].

The Growth Coach of Houston propels businesses to higher levels. If you are a busi-ness owner, manager or sales professional that wants to be the best at what you do, then you need a coach. Great players and great teams win championships by having great coaches. For more information or to schedule a FREE one hour consultation with Glenn Smith at the Growth Coach of Houston, mention the FBBJ and call 281 841-6680 or email Glenn

at [email protected]. You can also visit www.thegrowthcoach.com. The Growth Coach of Houston is a member of TCRN-Sugar Land and can be found on www.tcrn-sugarland.com along with other great business resources.

Brian Covault is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and TCRN Founder/CEO, Texas Community Referral Network. He can be reached at 281-342-8276. www.tcrn-sugarland.com. H

C olliers International is pleased to announce the addition of Corbin Janssen as Associate to our Fort Bend office.

Corbin is a long-standing Sugar Land resident with a firsthand look at the city’s growth. Since the creation of the First Colony master planned community in 1975, Corbin’s father, Don Janssen, has played a major role in Sugar Land’s development. Growing up Corbin also played baseball for the FBBA Eagles and drums in the Sugar Creek Baptist Church music group.

“We are very excited about adding Corbin to the Fort Bend team.” said Kolbe

Corbin Janssen

Corbin Janssen joins growing Colliers International - Fort Bend Office

About Colliers InternationalColliers International is the third-largest commercial real estate services company in the world with 12,500 professionals operating out of more than 500

offices in 61 countries. A subsidiary of FirstService Corporation (NASDAQ: FSRV; TSX: FSV and FSV.PR.U), it focuses on accelerating success for its clients by

seamlessly providing a full range of services to real estate users, owners and investors worldwide, including global corporate solutions, brokerage, property and asset

management, hotel investment sales and consulting, valuation, consulting and appraisal services, mortgage banking and research. Commercial Property Executive

and Multi-Housing News magazines ranked Colliers International as the top U.S. real estate company and the latest annual survey by the Lipsey Company

ranked Colliers International as the second most recognized commercial real estate brand in the world.

Locally, Colliers International | Houston is a full service commercial real estate firm with offices in the Galleria and Sugar Land, providing integrated

services to clients locally and globally since 1957. The staff of more than 87 professionals specializes in the sale and leasing of office, industrial, retail, multi-family,

investments, and land and provides real estate, property, and project management services. Find out more at www.colliers.com/houston.


E lsa Malakoff Maxey joins Star Digital Studios as its executive producer in charge of the production studios of the

company founded and owned by Sherry Carter. Carter recently passed away on October 15, 2011. Carter, who had worked in the film industry in California, operated Star Digital Studios for the past 15 years. The company is credited under her direction for the production of scripts, TV commercials, promotional videos and many other notable projects.

In her new role with Star Digital Studios, Maxey who worked with Carter on numerous projects, will continue a brand aligned with the legacy of Carter’s success in the industry.

Maxey has begun to expand the business with the development of operations that include litigation support offering video deposition services to the legal community. The work of the full service

production company continues to be accomplished with a team of experienced production freelance professionals that include preproduction scripting services, camera crews for video shoots, video editing, post production effects, recordings, DVD duplication and authoring, video services for website use and other services using top of the line technology.

Highlights of Maxey’s background in the video industry include producer and news anchor roles with a community television station and at Missouri City TV, where she led the way earning the television station its first statewide award from the Texas Municipal League’s affiliated Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers for a video project she wrote and produced. With other video awards following for projects in which she served as a producer, Maxey also wrote and produced a history documentary earning it an award

from the Texas Association of Telecommunications Officers Association. A natural in the field of communications, Maxey also earned a Texas Associated Press award for a radio documentary.

Maxey’s multidisciplinary work background with a communications focus includes a manager’s position in health planning with the Houston-Galveston Area Council and with the Harris County Hospital District, she worked in the field of facilities development. She has also served in a grant review committee in Bethesda, Maryland for health and health related projects earmarked for congressional appropriations. A key communicator, Maxey has further served in a Public Information Officer role in emergency management functions that included a

Joint Information Center operation in Galveston County.

Maxey holds a master’s degree from the University of Houston and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas-Austin and is a contributing editor of a commemorative pictorial history book. Most recently, she held a reporter’s position with the Fort Bend Star and has been a contributing writer for the Fort Bend Business Journal.

While Maxey will step away from day-to-day reporter functions, she will continue to contribute stories and features in both publications. Star Digital Studio is located at 4655 Techniplex Drive, Suite 500, Stafford, Texas 77477, or call 281-690-4280 or go to www.starvideoproductions.com.

Elsa Malakoff Maxey

Star Digital Studio welcomes Elsa Malakoff Maxey

DigitalSTUDIOS

STAR

BOOSTBOOST YOUR YOUR WEBSITE AND GIVE ITEEXXCITEMENTCITEMENT

TO BE SEEN AND GET THE ATTENTION YOU DESERVE

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Video sells and your customers will love it. It’s dynamic and engaging.

From conception to completion, at Star Digital Studios we offer all phases of video production including pre-production scripting, videography, editing, post-produc-

tion effects and distribution, DVD duplication and authoring.

VIDEO ON DEMAND…IT’S A POWERFUL TOOL AND WE CAN HELP.

281-690-42804655 TECHNIPLEX DR., STE 600STAFFORD, TEXAS 77477

DigitalSTUDIOS

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FORT BEND

The Fort Bend County

Bar Association has

elected its board of

directors for the 2012

year. Mario A. Martinez has taken

office as President, Will Colgin is

Immediate Past President, Joshua

Leal is President Elect, Melissa

Garcia-Martin is Secretary, David

Perwin is Treasurer, and Deborah

Bullion, Joan Cain, Renee Beilue

and Sherrie Travers have all been

elected as directors. The Fort Bend

County Bar Association is comprised

of attorneys who practice in all areas

of the law and service the Fort Bend

County and surrounding areas. You

can contact the Fort Bend County

Bar Association through its Executive

Director, Melinda Knight e-mail her

at [email protected] or by

visiting www.fortbendbar.com.

Fort Bend Bar AssociationAnnual installation at Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club

Judge Ronald Pope, Brett Busby and David Chaumette.

Amos and Anne Sampson Gbenjo. Judge Janey Gary and Judge Lorraine Wilson.

Judge Robert and Suzy Kern.

Front: Maggie Perez Jaramillio & Teana Watson, and standing, president elect Josh Leal.

2012 Elected Board of Directors - (l-r) Will Colgin, Mario A. Martinez, Joshua Leal, David Perwin, Joan Cain, Melissa Garcia Martin, and Deborah Bullion. Not pictured are Renee Beilue and Sherrie Travers.

BIG SHOTS

Richmond State Supported Living Center Winter Wonderland Gala

Jody and David Noirit

Dr. Pankaj K. Shah, Artie Dmello, Susan Denman Briones, Randy Briones, Dr. David Choa and back row David Cross.

Rashmi and Sonny Sharma

Board of Directors - (l-r) Billy Davis, Johnny Ferro, Louise Clay, Judy Schmid, David Davis, Sherrie Gideon, Alpa Shah and Vish Bhaskaran.

Mike & Barbra Trotter and Barbara and Gilbert Fitzgerrell.


WHERE TO EAT NOW - The following is a list of exceptional restaurants throughout in Fort Bend County & Katy Area. Prices reflect the average cost of a three-course dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax and tip. $$$$=Very Expensive ($60 & Up). $$$=Expensive ($40-$60). $$=Moderate ($20-$40). $=Inexpensive (Under $20) . FB=Full Bar. WB=Serves Wine & Beer.

FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENTGUIDE

Aling’s Hakka Chinese Cuisine Welcome to Sugar Land’s first Hakka Chinese Restaurant! Using family recipes, Chefs Lin Motiwala and Gary Yan present this unique “Chindian” cuisine, a delicious fusion of both

Chinese and Indian cookery (without the curry undertones). From savory steamed or pan fried Dumplings to traditional Indian-style Hakka dishes, as prepared in Bombay/Pune, like Chicken

Lollipop, as well as American Chop Suey, each dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients to bring you a dining experience like no other. Lunch specials start at $6.95 for a 4 course meal. Open Tuesday - Sunday. Lunch: 11am-3pm (Tues-Fri). Dinner: 5:30pm-10pm (Tues-Thurs & Sun) and 11pm (Fri & Sat). Aling’s is located in the First Colony Commons shopping center at Hwy 59 and Williams Trace Blvd. between Home Depot and Office Depot. 15425 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land. Call 281-242-0432. www.alingshakka.com. $$

AURA RestaurantChef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture - AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. A three course prix fixe lunch for $12.95 to Mussles Marinieres, Roasted Red Snapper or Filet Mignon with Cognac Peppercorn Sauce. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for a truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA

Now Open Sundays 10-9pm • Monday - Thursday 11-9pm • Friday 11-10pm • Saturday 4-11pm • Sunday Brunch 10-2pm1550 Lake Pointe Parkway • Sugar Land • 281-491-2901 or www.PostOakGrillSugarLand.com

PRIVATE PARTIESNEW EXPANSION COMING SOON


(without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB

Candelari’s PizzeriaAlbert Candelari began making sausage over 50 years ago. As the years have passed the flavor remains the same, which is why Candelari’s is the “King of Sausages”! They take that delicious Italian sausage and put it in pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches. Enjoy appetizers, salads, pastas, sandwiches, pizzas and desserts in there dining room, large patio, or full bar with large screen TV’s. Happy hour is Monday - Thursday 3 to 7pm. This casual dining experience is available at two locations in Fort Bend. Call either location for take-out or delivery. 7425 Hwy 6 S (Just North of Sienna) 832-947-0440 / 6825 S Fry Rd (Fry & 99) 281-395-6746. www.candelaris.com. $ • FB

Fernando’s Latin CuisineWe are pleased to announce the arrival of Fernando’s Latin Cuisine-An exotic culinary adventure! Started by, Fernando Echeverria, the same owner of Los Andes by the Compact Center in Houston-Another wonderful Latin American

restaurant. Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is located in the same building where Ruth’s Chris used to be. Featured dishes include Empanadas appetizer, Fileton, (Filet mignon) and Asada Y Camarones, Casually called the surf and turf. 14135 Southwest Freeway, in Sugar Land. 281-494-9087. wwww.fernandosrestaurants.com. $$ • FB

Karl’s At The Riverbend Romantic Dining in the Country, across the creek from a horse farm. Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind’s menu features Angus steaks, Prime Rib, Wienerschnitzel, Trout Almondine and other fresh fish, Rack of Lamb, Steak and other wild game, Atkins specials, a budget weeknight menu offered along with the regular menu, plus a wonderful Sunday Brunch Buffet. Company Luncheons and Rehearsal Dinners invited. Open Tues-Sat for Dinner and Sunday Brunch 5011 FM 723 Richmond 281-238-9300 www.karlsrb.com Read our reviews at www.b4-u-eat.com. $$ • FB

Las Alamedas Restaurant & Cantina Relocated Las

A l a m e d a s Restaurant from

I-10 and Voss to the beautiful “La Centerra” Town Square on Cinco Ranch Blvd and Grand Parkway.

Las Alamedas will continue its 31 year tradition of “Mexican Food with Passion” and warm hospitality amid the art, rich warm colors, stone arches, mahogany and wrought iron reminiscent of fine dining in a Spanish Hacienda. The authentic aromas, spirits of traditional Mexican cuisine, warm ambiance and service will make you come back again and again. Open for lunch and dinner and offers the perfect setting for casual dining, romantic evenings, family dinners and parties. Las Alamedas also serves on Saturday and Sundays a great Brunch menu 11 to 3pm. Open Monday - Thursday 11am to 10pm Friday & Saturday 11am to 11pm and Sundays 11am to 9pm BAR 11am till closing. 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Suite F-140, Katy, TX 77494. 281-347-3030. www. LasAlamedas.com. $$ • FB

Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & GrillSantos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281-240-3060. $ • FB

COMINGFEBRUARY

2012 ISSUE

DeadlineJanuary 10

Spotlight onCardiologists

Special Feature

Fort Bend/Katy

TO ADVERTISE CALL MARY DOETTERL

281-690-4204713-397-6279-cell

[email protected]

continued on page 64


FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENTGUIDE

Lupitas Mexican RestaurantJaime and Lupe Garcia have lived in Fort Bend for 36 years. Twenty-three of those years have been spent in the restaurant business. If you want authentic Mexican food made from only the freshest ingredients and at a reasonable price, go

to Lupitas Mexican Restaurant formerly Pico De Gallo Mexican Restaurant. The Garcias continually concentrate on customer satisfaction. That includes the quality and freshness of their food as well as the family atmosphere of their restaurant. Dine-In, Take-out, and Catering available. 3121 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-265-6556. $ • WB

Panda GardenPanda Garden Restaurant, the three times winner for Best Oriental Restaurant in Fort Bend County, located at 3563 Highway 6 in Kroger Center, provides a warm, casual environment to best service all diners. The goal of our restaurant is to offer 100% satisfactory to the customers with variety selection of popular Hunan Cuisine. “We offer fresh, made from scratch meals that is unforgettably delicious!” Manager Kenny adds. The restaurant offers accommodations for small group meetings and wonderful party tray for catering to the near by businesses and schools. Panda Garden is open 7 days a week on Mon. – Sat.: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun. 11a.m. – 9:30p.m. Delivery is available everyday with a min. of $15.00 purchase. A lunch special is offered daily as well as the full regular menu offerings. 3563 Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace, 281-265-0303. $ • WB

Post Oak Grill Restaurant & BarThe Rios Family invites you to come and experience the same quality,

ambiance and service that you have at the original Post Oak Gill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine prime beef, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - Monday-Thursday 11:00-10:00pm, Friday 11:00-11:00p.m., Saturday 4:00-11pm, Sunday 10:00-9:00pm, & Sunday Brunch 10:00-2:00pm. Happy Hour 3:00-6:00pm. 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901. www.PostOakGrillSugarland.com $$ • FB

Tradicao Brazilian SteakhouseTradicao Brazilian Steakhouse is the best new steakhouse in Fort Bend. Tradicao, pronounced Tra-dee-son, was named after

the Brazilian word for “tradition” and founded on the idea to continue this traditional way of grilling. They are a family owned and operated churracaria whose goal is to make sure your dining experience is one you will never forget. Their prixe fixe menu includes 14 cuts of perfectly grilled meats brought to your table side, a large salad bar and hot sides. Tradicao would like to invite you to come join them, sit back and relax. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Sat Closed, Sun 12-3pm. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9:30pm, Fri 5-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun 5-9pm. Phone: 281-277-9292. 12000 Southest Freeway, Meadows Place, TX, 77477, www.TradicaoSteakhouse.com.

http://www.tradicaosteakhouse.com

Highway 59 one block north of Highway 6 at Lake Pointe Parkway

1317 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 | 281-637-7000

S O M E O F T H E B E S T M E D I C A L A D V I C E

Y O U ’ L L E V E R R E C E I V E I S

H O W T O G E T H E R E .

When it comes to hospitals in Sugar Land, you have lots of choices. But only one

hospital carries the St. Luke’s name. At St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, you’ll find

a commitment to excellence plus many of the services you may need, delivered

with our own special brand of caring called Faithful, Loving Care®. Discover what

makes us different. We’re here for you.

StLukesSugarLand.com

generated at BeQRious.com

SLSL_Ads 8.375x10.875_FBF.indd 1 12/19/11 9:38 AM

BACK PAIN? NECK PAIN?

Stop enduring pain. Call or email today and begin your personal

treatment plan. 281-313-BACK (2225) or [email protected].

The Spine Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

is the comprehensive, coordinated option for you in

Fort Bend County.

For back and neck pain, there’s only one premier choice – Methodist Sugar

Land Hospital’s Spine Center. Whether you’ve had pain for just a few days

or several long years, you’ll find everything you need to diagnose and

treat your condition in a convenient location, with access to premier

spine specialists and a complete range of treatment options.

Getting started is easy. We will guide you through a

customized treatment plan, with expedited access to

world-class neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic

spine surgeons and interventional pain specialists.

Plus, physical therapy, occupational/hand therapy,

and the most advanced imaging and surgical

technologies in the world are available on-site.

16655 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-313-BACK (2225) • MethodistSugarLand.com

Connect with us.

http://www.methodistsugarland.com

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