By Sharon K. Wallingford

We’re celebrating the Top 40 Entrepreneurs and Executives Under 40 in Fort Bend County. These fine men and women were nominated by their peers so we could discover who the movers and shakers are today. There are so many more of you out there and we hope to get to know everyone of you over the course of this next year.

The nominations poured into our office. Among the nominees were doctors, bankers, exercise gurus, attorneys, marketing experts, Realtors, inventors, and entrepreneurs. As a result of these selections, Fort Bend County residents can be proud and encouraged to know there is so much top of the world talent, passion, and vitality available to us and the businesses that surround us.

Congratulate them. Join us in supporting them. They have earned the recognition and because of their dedication rest assured our tomorrow’s will be even brighter.

CLICK ON IMAGE TO JUMP TO PERSON

Mehul Parikh

Mehul Parikh is the vice president of SARA Appliances and Electronics, a family owned business that was established in Houston in 1981. After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin, Mehul started his own consulting company, MRP Consulting, an IT firm dedicated to serving many non-profit organizations. He then moved to California with an Internet start-up company, NOVICA.com, a site dedicated to free trade and pricing for international artisans. He returned to Houston and helped expand SARA AE from a single store operation to a multi-location retail business.

Today he helps manage the daily operations and sales of two stores, one located in Sugar Land off First Colony Blvd., and one at I-I0 and Beltway 8. Mehul has helped to expand SARA’s sales into the world of high-end appliances and home theater installations without losing its family-owned feel and personal service. Thus, SARA is able to meet the needs of customers at every level of the appliance and electronics market. Mehul currently lives in Sugar Land with his wife and two children and hopes to serve his community for years to come.

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Alora Chamblee

With over 10 years of sales experience to her credit, Alora Chamblee joined Customized Real Estate Services as a sales associate. Customized Real Estate Services, a full service commercial real estate firm headquartered in Houston, was named as the Top 50 Fastest – Growing Woman-Owned Businesses by the Houston Business Journal in 2006 and 2009. Alora’s wealth of knowledge gained from working with private, public and government entities consistently generated yearly sales in excess of $5 million. Specializing in office leasing of retail and industrial space, she represents both landlords and tenants. The firm reports that in less than four months, she has acquired almost 40,000 sq ft. in new Houston area business valued at over $3 million.

A 1998 graduate of Texas A&M University, Alora resides in Fort Bend County with her husband and their three daughters. She is actively involved in the community along with balancing a demanding professional and personal life. She is in a leadership role of the hospitably team at her church, Parkway Fellowship, and has seen the membership of her church double over the last six months since her involvement.

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Bernadette Hurley is no stranger to business. In 1996, she and her husband Christopher created Kid Fit U.S.A., an out sourced physical education solution to Houston private schools and day care centers. The company currently services over 25 schools and over 1,000 children throughout the city. Kid Fit U.S.A. was designed to introduce a variety of sports and equipment to children in a fun and non-competitive environment.

With her business acumen, she entered the real estate industry at Keller Williams Realty in 1998 and created her real estate team, Go Hurley Group. In 2002, REALTOR Magazine recognized her as “30 Under 30,” and she has been excelling in the industry ever since. She has received the Houston Association of Realtor’s Top Production Award for listing volume since 2006, as well as, receiving other numerous achievement awards within Keller Williams Realty. Bernadette has served on numerous advisory boards for the Houston Association of Realtors and currently serves on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) Board.

“I have been very fortunate to be in the real estate industry at the time of the technology boom,” says Bernadette. Her website: www.SugarLandRelocation has been a valuable resource to many of Fort Bend county’s residents.

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Claudia Vasquez

After spending more than 10 years with a national brokerage firm, Claudia Vasquez joined the independent financial services firm of Wallstreet Texas in March of 2009. In Texas Monthly Magazine, Claudia was awarded a Five Star: Best in Client Satisfaction Wealth Managers in 2009 and 2010. She offers personalized advice with sophisticated solutions to meet both individual or corporation needs.

Claudia has been very active in the community and holds a political office in Stafford. She serves as Secretary/Treasurer for the Fort Bend Chamber, Chairman of the Board of the Fort Bend Literacy Council and is an active par tic pant on the Finance Committee for the Better Business Bureau.

She graduated from Texas A&M University with a BBA in Finance. Having immigrated from Mexico, she became a United States citizen in 2002.

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Elliot Wood

Elliot Wood is the General Manager of Kona Grill in Sugar Land. He is an active member of the community with significant roles in various organizations including the Susan G. Komen Young Professional’s Council, the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Young Professional’s Division (Vice Chair), CFBCA Leadership 2010, the Fort Bend Professional’s Network and the Fort Bend Symphony Advisory Council. He is also a Board Member for the Fort Bend Family YMCA.

In his spare time, Elliot enjoys running, grilling, live music, his dog Scooter and spending time with his daughter, Madison. Elliot attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied both Economics and Mathematics. Most recently Elliot was named 2009 Committee Member of the Year by the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance.

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Belinda Bentahar

Belinda Bentahar opened the doors to her language school, The Language Factory, in October 2007. The school launched immediately as a result of the dedication and extensive experience of its president and founder. In September 2009 she was featured on the front page of The Houston Chronicle as an example for entrepreneurs defying the downfall.

Belinda, a French native, holds a Masters Degree in Linguistics. She spent many years traveling the world achieving fluency in five languages.

“It should not only be the language that is of interest,” Bentahar observes. “In my opinion the ultimate goal should be to understand the cultural aspects enough to truly feel comfortable and confident when meeting with people of a region.”

After having lived on four continents, Bentahar and her family are proud to name Fort Bend as their final destination. “We do put a very important focus in our children’s lives on speaking foreign languages” says Belinda, who’s children Billy (12) and Lilly (7) are fluent in English, French and German and are on their way to learning Spanish and Chinese at her school. “And we feel that this community that celebrates diversity is the perfect place for us to be!”

Bentahar’s main ambition is to be able to offer a program to each individual or business. Now after only three short years The Language Factory has a wide variety of students who are always pleased with the diversity of courses, ranging from childrens classes to corporate packages.

“I truly believe that The Language Factory is a great contribution to our community”, says Bentahar. “It is the connecting door to the world, and it starts right here in our neighborhood.”

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Rick Pal

Rick Pal is an award-winning entrepreneur. He is the President of AirGenerate, a manufacturer and distributor of patented energy saving devices. The flagship product, AirTap™, is rated as the most energy-efficient water heater. It recently took top honors in the hot water contest at the 2009 DOE Solar Decathlon.

His recent professional accolades include Houston’s “40 under 40” and “Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business.” He has received several “Outstanding Entrepreneur” awards. He is an active participant in community affairs and politics and serves on city and professional committees. He is a recent graduate of the Fort Bend Leadership Forum and Sugar Land 101. Rick was recognized for his ongoing leadership activities when he received the MLK Foundation’s “Keeping the Dream Alive” award. He recently served as a delegate to the Asia 21 Leaders Summit in Tokyo and TEDIndia.

He is the founder of Ek-Disha Non-Profit, Inc. that funds high-impact humanitarian projects in India. He has also created, ‘Pal - Make a Difference” endowment at his alma mater - The University of Texas at Austin - to award an annual scholarship to students making a difference in their community. He is a board member of Texas Union Advisory Council, Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, Asians Against Domestic Abuse, and the Indo-American Forum.

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S. Scott Burgess, CPA

Before starting his CPA firm in May 2008, Scott spent a decade as an Accounting Executive in the real estate industry. He had many great experiences over the years, and learned a lot about how and how not to run a successful business. His firm’s revenue has increased 175% year over year. Scott attributes that success to the value the firm places on relationships. “Relationships are the key to everything in business and life. First and most importantly, our relationship with God. Next, our relationship with our family, and finally, our relationship with my employees, clients, peers, and associates. If you don’t have successful healthy relationships, you will never have a successful healthy business.”

Scott holds a Bachelor Degree in Accounting from Texas A&M University and an MBA in Management from The University of Houston. His firm currently employs four Fort Bend residents and is growing quickly. As an active member of the Fort Bend community, he currently serves as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for The Sugar Land Rotary Club. He was recently named Fort Bend Chamber Alliance’s Leader of the Year for 2009-2010. He is an active member of First Colony Church of Christ in Sugar Land. He and his wife, Amber, have been married for 13 years and are the parents to two children.

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Jerri Vo, DDS

There is a lot to be smiling about when it comes to general dentistry and Dr. Jerri Vo. At Smiles of Riverstone, she provides quality care to her patients at an affordable price. In these harsh economic times when most people lack dental insurance, Dr. Vo is able to provide patients with personalized attention using state-of-the-art technology within their budget.

She graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Texas at San Antonio Dental School. She then completed a residency program in advanced general dentistry at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital in San Antonio where she gained experience in cosmetic dentistry, dental surgery, dental implants, complex restorative dentistry, and conscious sedation. Dr. Vo ongoing pursuit of continuing education allows her to stay abreast of the latest advances in dentistry. She has been providing beautiful smiles to families around the community since 2003.

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Barbara Magana Robertson

Barbara Magana Robertson has played a vital role in the news industry for 19 years.

She launched Magana Media about a year ago. Magana Media is a public relations and marketing firm that also includes social media services. As a media consultant, Barbara is focused on helping her clients match their recognition and awareness to their abilities or business. Public safety officials have used her to consult on social media topics, department issues and media relations training. Her clients include professional athletes, doctors, lawyers, fire and police departments and businesses.

She began her career at KPRC when she was 19 years old. She learned the foundation on how to generate a news story, cultivate contacts and manage the news crews. For years she learned the news business from veterans like the late Ron Stone and Bill Balleza. After graduation from the University of Saint Thomas, she was promoted to several positions before becoming Assignment Manager.

Her career spans a lifetime of stories including Terrorist attacks on 9/11, the Waco Branch Davidian standoff, hurricanes, sporting championships, and countless others.

A native of Fort Bend County, she was reared by her parents Sam and Delia Magana. She and her husband Bill Robertson reside in Richmond. She serves as a board member on Achieve Fort Bend County and is an active committee member of the ARC of Fort Bend County and a lifetime member of the Fort Bend County Fair.

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Benoy Benny, M.D.

As a physician, Benoy serves as the president of The Center for Spine, Sports and Rehabilitation Excellence, a practice that specializes in the care of patients who have Spine and Sports issues that want to be managed non surgically. He also serves as an Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine and as a Clinical Professor at the University of Texas.

At Baylor, he is the director of the Spine, Sports and Pain program and the Interventional Pain Fellowship director through the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. In Fort Bend, he serves on the staffs at the Texas Sports Medicine Institute, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Oak Bend Medical Center and St Luke’s Hospital.

“Any success that I do have first of all comes from Christ above and the rest comes in large part from the support that I have had throughout the years of support from a lovely family: my wife and children, parents and siblings, extended family and friend and a supportive church,” adds Benoy. “My goal has always been to provide a service to the patients in the way that I would want myself to be treated. If I can treat each patient that I see like my own family member then I have done my job and my practice will grow on its own with a standard of excellence.”

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G. Travis Rodmon

Travis obtained his BA degree from Colorado State University in 2000. While attending CSU, Travis was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. After college, he joined the United States Army and served as a Non-Commissioned Intelligence Officer for the 3rd Brigade, 1st Armor Division based out of Fort Riley, KS. He also served two tours of duty in Baghdad, Iraq from 2003-2004 and 2005-2006.

After completing his military service, Travis entered the University of Washburn School of Law, graduating in 2009. While in law school, I was a member of our award-winning Trial Advocacy and Mock Trial teams and was awarded the Max Rowinsky award in 2008 for the school’s top trial advocate. He was also a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Fraternity. In his spare time, Travis assisted local humane societies and supported the Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

“I began dating my Washburn classmate, Brie Madden, in 2007. We were married this past January in the Robert Carr Chapel at Texas Christian University in her hometown of Fort Worth,” he adds. “Brie received her BA from Kansas State University and was a dual Varsity athlete in basketball and track. We both were admitted to the Texas State Bar last November.”

“We jumped at the chance to return to Texas when I was offered an associate attorney position with the Law Office of Martin Dale Carden in Richmond, practicing family law. I am honored to be able to practice in this amazing community. I have truly found a home here and look forward to serving the residents of Fort Bend County for years to come.”

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Christopher Webber

Christopher Webber is an account representative with Optio Solutions, LLC; a nationally licensed and bonded full-service accounts receivable management company. With slow paying accounts and delinquent debt on the rise, Optio Solutions partners with businesses nationwide to increase their profitability and provide immediate cash flow to their bottom line. Their affordable solution, often less than $12 per account not only helps to facilitate immediate cash flow, but preserves valued customer relationships with their diplomatic approach to receivables.

Christopher is a native of Birmingham, Alabama. After graduating from Cameron University he decided to serve his country and enlisted in the Army. He states “much of my success today is attributed to the discipline and knowledge I learned in the Army.”

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Hector Aguero, Jr., DMA

Héctor Agüero, Jr., 31, is entering his third season as Music Director of the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra. In just two short seasons he has elevated the musical excellence of the orchestra and helped increase season ticket sales by 56 percent.

Understanding the concentration of families in Fort Bend County, Hector has fine-tuned programming to include a heavy dose of pops music that is both family-friendly and musically-satisfying to the all-volunteer orchestra. A native of Laredo, Hector is a first-generation college graduate. He holds a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in orchestral conducting from Texas Tech University. In May, he received his Doctorate of Musical Arts in Orchestral Conducting from the University of Houston Moore’s School of Music, where he was a Schissler Conducting Fellow. Since 2007, Hector has served as Director of Orchestras at Houston Independent School District’s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts.

While working on his master’s degree, he was a production intern for the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra. Previously, he was the band director at Borden County School in Gail, Texas. Hector is a member of the League of American Orchestras, Conductors Guild of America and the Texas Music Educators Association. He and his wife, Laura, along with their four-year old daughter, Eva Grace, reside in Katy.

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John Kirksey, Jr.

As co-founder and co-owner of ZK Homes, L.P. and Zieben Kirksey Development Partners, L.P., John M. Kirksey, Jr. builds and develops high-quality, award-winning, and environmentally conscious residential communities in Houston and Sugar Land.

He has shepherded development projects through all phases—from initial land acquisition to working with municipalities, addressing zoning issues, and coordinating construction of community infrastructure. His efforts have culminated in the creation of multiple residential communities with a cumulative value of $95,000,000. Enclave at Lake Pointe, located in the heart of Sugar Land, represents a total project value of roughly $65,000,000.

Notably, John’s strong commitment to the community extends beyond his efforts in constructing sustainable and energy efficient homes. Both Fort Bend County Women’s Center and Child Advocates of Fort Bend have benefited from ZK Homes’ sponsorships and assistance. John personally participates in a number of civic organizations, including the Trees for Houston Board of Directors since 2008, and the Fort Bend Education Foundation Board of Directors 2010.

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Minesh Patel

Minesh Patel, co-owner of RE/MAX Fine Properties, has earned the recognition and respect as an exceptional entrepreneur in Fort Bend County. With a diverse background that extends from institutional trading to operations and technology management, Minesh brings tremendous energy to his company. In less than 18 months, Minesh and his partners have overhauled, re-branded and turned it into the largest RE/MAX office in Fort Bend County.

A native of Sugar Land, Minesh attended Clements High School and went on to earn his BBA, with double majors in Finance and MIS from Houston Baptist University. After graduation he joined San Francisco-based Barclay’s Global Investors, the largest investment management firm in the world.

“It was a very high-paced environment and required much attention to detail,” says Minesh, who brings those same attributes to his projects. His high energy and technical savvy combined with his partners industry experience has created a melding of old school and new school for the new market. His in-office persona combines approachability with professionalism and competence to make him an effective leader.

“Ultimately, we want to make our agents’ jobs easier so that they can better serve their clients. We are constantly working to creatively streamline our operations to include more technology and efficient business practices. The real estate market in Fort Bend has changed and we intend to show the community that we are adapting to that change.”

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Nicole Hill

Nicole is a graduate of University of Houston and has received numerous professional recognition and awards including being named one of the 25 most influential women in Houston by Rollingout Magazine in 2006, voted Top Professional on the Fast Track by H Texas Magazine in 2007, and the 2006 Community and Business Leader Appreciation Award from Ringling Brothers Circus for her work in the community. Prior to going into business with her husband, Cameron, she owned a corporate training business which offered services to various industries. Today, Nicole has the great pleasure of assisting individuals and families with their real estate needs.

She claims her greatest accomplishment has come from service to her community. Nicole’s first fund raising event was in 2002 for the Faith Foundation. She served as a member of the committee that raised funds for a local entrepreneur who had cancer. It was then, she says, she knew this was God’s purpose for her life. She has since served on committees to raise funds for the Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Fort Bend Women’s Center, Fort Bend Cares, Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee, and numerous organizations throughout Fort Bend and Harris County.

She was recently elected to the Child Advocates of Fort Bend Board of Directors. As a child abuse survivor, she works hard to advocate for Fort Bend’s abused children. Nicole spends her extra hours at Sweetwater Country Club where she is a past board member for the Sweetwater Women’s Association, Chair of the Charity Club, and has served as past Ambassador for the club.

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Kaelyn Stolhand

While Kaelyn Stolhand was graduating with honors from Texas State University with a degree in Healthcare Administration, she began her career at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital as an intern. Two years ago she was named the Marketing and Physician Relations Coordinator. As a coordinator, Kaelyn develops all marketing campaigns and is involved in business development and community relations initiatives. The year 2010 is a busy year for her. She’s a recent graduate of the Fort Bend Chamber Leadership class and is a new inductee of the Sugar Land Exchange Club.

Kaelyn is also an active member with the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Young Professionals division. “I look forward to getting more involved in our community as this is a great place to live and work.”

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Rick Staigle

Rick Staigle is president of Traffic Engineers, Inc., a service oriented, employee-owned corporation established in 1969. He established the company with the objective of providing expertise in every phase of transportation engineering to public agencies and private companies. His responsibilities are in project management, project development and company administration. Rick is a licensed Professional Engineer in Texas. He also holds certification as a Professional Traffic Operations Engineer after earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering at the University of Wyoming.

He and his wife, Heather, moved to the Houston area in 1995 and purchased a home in Meadows Place in 1998. They are the parents of two children, Brandon (12) and Jacob (10). Among his fatherhood activities, Rick finds the time to serve as an Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 731.

His civic duties are many. Rick began serving as an Alderman on City Council of Meadows Place in 2004. For three years prior he served on the Planning and Zoning Commission. He is on the Board of Directors for the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and was previously chair of the Government Relations Committee. Other activities include: Institute of Transportation Engineers-Houston Chapter Technical Committee and is a member of the Greater Houston Partnership Roadway Issues Committee, Federal Relations Committee, State Relations Committee, and Local Relations Committee.

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Pedro Jimenez

Pedro Jimenez is a native of Puerto Rico. He began his career in the sales world as a wholesale sales representative for Premium Tire in 1997 when he was twenty years old. A year later, he moved to their retail division, Tire Plaza, where he served as a Retail Store Manager.

In 1999, he moved to Florida to continue his professional growth with Tire Plus, Firestone’s Tires retail channel where he spent four successful years as a Retail Store Manager. In 2004, he joined Pep Boys in Miami where he excelled for the next four years winning various Store of the Month awards and running one of their most profitable stores.

In 2008, the native Puerto Rican moved to Houston where he has served as a retail business manager for Cricket. During the past two years, his store has won Store of the Month multiple times and he has established himself as one the top managers in the market with his wealth of sales and operational knowledge.

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Travis Van Horn

Trustmark National Bank has been a near perfect fit as Travis Van Horn’s place of employment since 2004. His title within the bank is Market President – SW Houston. “What that really means is that I am Trustmark’s lead business development officer/community director for Fort Bend and its surrounding counties, and that is really how I view myself.”

He attended Baylor University and his undergrad major was Finance. He then completed his Masters in Business.

He and his family have been residents in Sugar Land for six years. He and his wife, Stephanie, have two daughters, Katelyn and Cassidy.

He serves as a director for the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and his wife is involved in the Sugar Plum Market and Fort Bend’s Women’s Junior Service League.

“I fully believe that the reason that I have encountered some success revolves around the autonomy I am given to do my job, and the personal relationships (both customer and prospects) that I have been able to develop and maintain,” adds Travis.

“With the challenges we all face from the current uneven economy, I truly appreciate the ability to work with in the community where I live and breathe, and the many attributes of the SW Houston/Fort Bend County market.”

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Jess Stuart

An eighth generation Texan, Jess Stuart was born with family roots in Fort Bend County that go back to the Old 300, a group that settled Texas with Stephen F. Austin in the 1820’s. The native son graduated with a bachelors degree in Kinesiology with specialization in Sports Management from Texas A&M University in 1994.

Jess completed an internship at the Cypress Creek YMCA in Houston and has worked professionally for 18 years at the San Jacinto YMCA, Langham Creek YMCA, and now currently for the T.W. Davis YMCA as the executive director.

“I get asked many times what makes success in the workplace and I always say it is the staff that works with you,” claims Jess. “I have been priviledged to work with great professional staff at each location.” Jess also says it takes passion in what you believe. “I most definitely want to give back to the Fort Bend community as much as possible. We do that through our YMCA programs that are offered today like youth sports, afterschool care, Summer Day Camp activities, Senior activity programs, Childwatch, swim lessons, programs at Outreach Sites, informal education, Teen programs, and Wellness classes. The T.W. Davis Family YMCA upholds the proud tradition of the YMCA and its mission of serving the community in high-quality programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”

Involved in his community, Jess has completed Fort Bend Leadership, a year long program offered through the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, and as an officer in the Old 300, an organization that continues to recognize local historical findings. He also serves as a member of the Fort Bend Historical Commission.

He and his family have the privilege to reside on a family ranch that has been recognized by the State of Texas as one of the oldest working ranches in the state.

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Trey Reichert

Trey Reichert is employed by Johnson Development Corporation as the Development Manager for Riverstone, a 3,700-acre master-planned community in eastern Fort Bend County. He has been involved in the development of master-planned communities since 1998, first working as a project engineer for a large consulting firm in Houston before joining Johnson Development in 2005. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in Civil Engineering, and currently serves as Board Chair-Elect for the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County. He also serves as Board President for Fort Bend County MUD No. 123. Trey is a 2007 graduate of the Fort Bend Leadership Forum and has served as Vice-Chair of the program since 2008.

As a leader in Fort Bend County, Trey strives to achieve perfection in everything he touches. His biggest challenge thus far has been juggling his job, volunteer positions and family life. He hates saying “no” and is always willing to lend a helping hand. “I have a beautiful wife, whom I have been with for the past 18 years and we have two wonderful children that keep me busy at home.”

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Sara Nguyen

Sara Nguyen is a Realtor, wife, mother and a volunteer. An agent with Prudential Gary Greene Realtors in Sugar Land, she currently lives in Sienna Plantation with her husband, Huy, and their two beautiful daughters, Emma, 7, and Ellie, 4. Sara grew up in the small Texas town of Rockport-Fulton and graduated cum laude from the University of Houston with a double BBA in Finance and Management.

She worked as director of investment operations for an investment firm for several years before deciding on a career in real estate. In 2004, she made the switch and has been blazing ever since including being honored as a finalist by the Real Estate Apprentice Foundation in early 2005 for her great start in the industry. She prides herself with being attentive and trustworthy. She holds product knowledge, integrity and being detail oriented as the foundation of her success.

Nguyen holds the Accredited Buyer’s Representative designation and is a Certified Home Marketing Specialist. She has earned being one of Prudential’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers every year. In her spare time, Sara volunteers countless hours to the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center where she was presented with The President’s Volunteer Service Award for her service. Nguyen and Prudential’s Sugar Land office host five blood drives annually.

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Justin Vickery

As a vice president and commercial loan officer for First Community Bank since 2006, Justin Vickery feels he has been fortunate to build relationships with so many incredible people in the Fort Bend area.

“Whether a small business owner or an individual, these relationships are what make my career so rewarding,” he says. “They are the reason why I was nominated for this great honor, so I want to start by saying thank you to each and every one of them.”

“First and foremost, I attribute my success to God…for with Him, all things are possible.”

“Once I started working in the Fort Bend area, I soon learned the importance of working within one’s community.” He feels the T.W. Davis YMCA and Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance allowed him the opportunity to do so and his time volunteering for them has proven to be invaluable. As chairman of the board for the YMCA, director for the Chamber, and founding chairman of the chamber’s Young Professionals Division, Justin feels he has learned what it really means to be a leader.

Justin adds, Mark Twain once said, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” Age, he says, didn’t matter to the YMCA or the Chamber. “ I will be appreciative for these leadership opportunities so early in my life and career.”

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Heather Remark, DVM

Heather Remark, DVM joined Lake Olympia Animal Hospital in 2007, after graduating from the University of Florida.

She practiced a short time in Florida before relocating to the Houston area to be closer to NASA where her husband became employed. The job search landed Dr. Remark at Lake Olympia Animal Hospital where she found her niche taking care of the community’s pets and their families. The emphasis at Lake Olympia has always been on quality, compassionate medicine, and she is certainly an example of a doctor that goes the extra mile with her patients and their owners.

Lake Olympia Animal Hospital offers preventative care for dogs and cats including vaccinations, wellness bloodwork and dental cleanings, as well as spays, neuters, and soft tissue surgery. An on site laboratory allows for immediate results in most cases, with ultrasound and digital X-ray available for more extensive diagnostics. Currently located on Glenn Lakes Lane, their new hospital is scheduled to begin construction in July.

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Austin Cox

Austin Cox joined IMG Financial Group after graduating Cum Laude from Texas A&M University with a degree in Finance. While at Texas A&M, Austin was a member of the Corps of Cadets, the Ross Volunteer Company, and the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band. As a member of the Corps of Cadets, he learned discipline and leadership, which he is proud to offer his clients.

Since 1981, IMG Financial Group has helped clients work towards fulfilling their needs responsively and efficiently. IMG is a smaller, independently owned and operated firm that prides itself on service and excellence. He helps their clients meet their financial goals and dreams through the implementation of investments, insurance, and financial strategies.

Austin has a passion for service and enjoys assisting others in understanding their current finances and helping them to use their funds efficiently. Once this is achieved, Austin believes individuals and their families will be able to live a more financially secure life, with less fear of the future.

Austin and his wife Katie, who teaches in Fort Bend ISD, live in the First Colony area of Sugar Land, and in addition to work, they enjoy being active in their local church.

Austin is a registered representative of Securian Financial Services.

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Scott Lease

A native of Fort Bend County, Scott Lease has lived here all of his life. After graduating from the University of Texas with a degree in finance and an MBA from the University of Houston, Scott began a career as a consultant with KPMG and rose within the company to senior management. When the opportunity to work with his family, who had been in real estate for years, came along, he jumped at it.

In mid-2000, Scott, his brother Jim, and mom Sharon, formed Identity Homes. Starting with a handful of lots in the Sugar Land area, they built a company that has grown to include land development and custom home building. Identity Homes and Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes and Estates have, over the past 10 years, grown in size and reputation as a builder who provides their customers with quality, value, and flexibility in the design and construction of their new homes.

Scott also runs a consulting company, Blue Water Risk Advisors, which helps home builders and title agents with risk mitigation strategies.

Scott lives in Richmond with his wife, Kimberly, and their two children. He is a board member of Living Waters International, an organization dedicated to providing a cup of clean water in Jesus name, by drilling water wells throughout the globe.

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Chance Brown

Growing up in Galveston, Chance Brown knew nothing about home building until he happened to sell a sponsorship for a charity event to the owner of a large, national homebuilder. That changed everything.

Chance quickly found his calling in the sales and marketing of new home construction. He has been a salesperson, sales trainer, and in sales management at one of the largest builders in the country. Today, Chance is excited to be working in the Fort Bend county area helping grow the sales and brand recognition of Identity Homes, a builder who already enjoys a sterling reputation for quality, value and flexibilty in design and construction.

Over the next several years, Identity Homes and Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes and Estates are poised for growth, yet still positioned to be able to provide world-class service to their homeowners.

Chance, his wife, Katherine, and daughter are excited about the upcoming arrival of a second child. Chance enjoys the outdoors, reading, and spending time with his family and friends. He is a life member of the Sam Houston State University Alumni Association, the 100 Club, and several other charitable organizations focused on education and children’s causes.

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Crissy Nolen

Crissy Nolen, 24, joined Curtice Commercial Real Estate in 2007 as a Marketing Specialist.

In May 2010, Curtice Commercial joined Colliers International. Crissy, whose primary role was to develop Curtice Commercial’s website and market properties, looks forward to growing in her role at the new company.

Her other specialties also include advertising ventures such as Sugar Land-In-A-Box and Katy-Opoly, special events, promotions, non-profit work, and website development.

Crissy’s various affiliations in Fort Bend county mark her as an enthusiastic leader dedicated to promoting teamwork and giving back to the community. Crissy is married to Ryan and the couple has two daughters, Hope and Isabelle, born exactly one year apart.

She is proud to be part of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class of 2010, The Exchange Club of Fort Bend, River Pointe Church, and serves as committee member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. She is also a member of the Houston Area Phi Mu Alumnae Chapter.

Crissy began her community service in Fort Bend County in 1998 by volunteering with the Fort Bend County Women’s Center and continues through the STARS. Through her work and commitment to non-profits, Crissy is excited to help Fort Bend country grow and prosper.

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D’Neal Krisch

D’Neal Krisch, is a Community Relations manager who joined County Judge Bob Hebert when he assumed office as Fort Bend County Judge in January 2003.

D’Neal performs all tasks and assumes such executive authority as delegated by the County Judge in the exercise of his duties. She serves as the County Liaison with the community, Governor’s Office, State Legislature, regional county judges and mayors, and area community service groups.

She’s active in numerous organizations, serves on the Board of Directors of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council and completed the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program in 2004.

D’Neal serves as the county’s Public Information Officer and helped to develop a Public Information Website aimed at providing fast, direct and transparent communications for the greater community.

She is proud of the opportunity to help and work with others in Fort Bend county, the place she grew up. D’Neal accredits her success to her mentor, Judge Hebert who has enabled her in immeasurable ways by providing guidance, constructive feedback, and expertise.

D’Neal is a graduate of Texas Tech University where she received a bachelor degree of Business Management. She lives in Sienna Plantation with her husband Brad and their two sons, Clayton and Chase.

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Bill Odle

Raised in a small rural Oklahoma town with only 11 people in his high school graduating class, Bill Odle developed an early love of nature that, along with an innate business savvy, has helped establish him as a top Houston executive.

Bill joined TBG Partners, Texas’ leading landscape architecture and planning firm, in Austin in 1995, working there for five years before heading to the Bayou City.

At 29, Bill became Managing Principal of TBG’s Houston office, completing a 180-degree transition from small rural town to a city and region exceeding 5 million people.

Under Bill’s leadership, TBG’s Houston office has grown 20 to 30 percent annually for the past eight years, thanks largely to the extraordinary success Bill’s teams have enjoyed planning and designing many of Fort Bend county’s top master-planned communities and area destinations, including Sienna Plantation, Telfair, Cinco Ranch Southwest, Riverstone, Seven Meadows and the Imperial Sugar Tract.

Bill is a longstanding Sienna Plantation resident and serves as president of its Community Services Foundation, which allots funds for recreational and educational development and improvements throughout Sienna’s numerous neighborhoods. This role is especially rewarding, as it allows Bill to give back to and enhance his own community.

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Jim Brown

Jim Brown, 37, has served as CEO of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital since June of 2007.

During his tenure, the facility has enjoyed steady growth and expanded services amidst a highly-competitive market, achieved financial stability, distinguished itself as a national leader in patient satisfaction, and produced exceptional clinical quality outcomes garnering state-wide and national attention. The facility has a distinctive culture with high employee satisfaction, low turnover, and physician satisfaction benchmarked at the 94th percentile nationally.

Jim is active in the community serving of the boards of the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance and the Fort Bend Education Foundation. He is also active with Fort Bend Cares.

Jim and his wife, Amy, have a son, Jack – 4, and daughter, Harper – 1. They are members of Christ United Methodist Church in Sugar Land.

Jim earned a BBA in Marketing from Texas A&M University and a masters degree in Healthcare Administration from Trinity University. He has previously served as COO of Doctors Hospital of Dallas, COO of Lea Regional Medical Center in Hobbs, New Mexico, and Vice President of CHRISTUS St. Joseph’s Health System in Paris, Texas.

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Soyoung Ahn

Soyoung Ahn is the assistant general manager at the new Residence Inn by Marriott – Katy Mills Mall. Prior to the move to Katy she was operations manager at Residence Inn by Marriott – Sugar Land.

Soyoung graduated from Pennsylvania State College in 2008 with a B. A. in Hotel Restaurant Institutional Management.

A belief in giving 110% effort in all areas is one of Soyoung’s life lessons. “If you put all of your effort into every daily event, at the end of the day you’ll find you have no regrets. Having this mentality earned me the position of assistant general manager. I enjoy working and learning from wonderful people like Yoyo Pan, General Manager, and Vanessa Hawkins, director of sales.”

Ahn also believes in working as a team with honesty, perseverance, integrity and taking care of their associates makes for a uniquely strong company, one she is proud to be associated with.

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Peter Osborne

Peter Osborne, DC, is the clinical director of Town Center Wellness in Sugar Land. He is a doctor of chiropractic medicine and a Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist. Additionally, he is an expert in orthomolecular and functional medicine and has been practicing since 2001. His clinical focus is the holistic natural treatment of chronic degenerative diseases.

Peter received his doctorate from Texas Chiropractic College. He has held faculty teaching positions at Texas Women’s University and HCC’s nursing program teaching Neurophysiology, Nutrition, Biology, and Anatomy & Physiology.

He lectures nationally to doctors on the topics of gluten sensitivity/intolerance, celiac disease, drug induced nutritional deficiencies, and many other nutritionally related topics. He is the co-founder of Nutra-MD, a nutritional supplement product line that addresses nutrient deficiencies caused by commonly prescribed medications. He is the host for the radio program Alternatives for Health & Wellness and the executive secretary for the American Clinical Board of Nutrition. Most recently, he launched glutenfreesociety.org, the first web site dedicated to helping people identify and deal with gluten sensitivity.

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Noelle Shaeffer

Noelle Shaeffer is the manager of Coldwater Creek in Sugar Land.

Originally from Houston, Noelle grew up in Los Angeles and Albuquerque where she earned a bachelors’ degree in Management from the University of New Mexico.

Upon graduation, Noelle accepted a position as store manager of Banana Republic in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Within a few months, her responsibilities grew to management of multiple locations throughout New Mexico. This provided her with a solid foundation in operational logistics.

Her next career move was to North Texas as a logistics executive for Target Corporation. Her focus, while in this position, was improving the receiving and overnight logistical processes at various Target stores throughout the region. Noelle’s most recent position brought her back home.

As manager of Coldwater Creek for the past two and a half years, she is responsible for all areas of the business, including staff development, business analysis, and sales leadership.

Noelle is also involved in the organization and planning of community events which includes fashion shows and in-store party events for various women’s organizations.

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Brian Anderson, DC

Dr. Brian Anderson has completed more than 5,600 hours of nationally accredited education. He holds a Bachelors degree in Human Life sciences, a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from one of the top accredited chiropractic schools in the world.

He also holds an elite and comprehensive certification in wellness science with advanced training in spinal correction, toxicity, exercise, and nutritional sciences in addition to a specialization in pediatrics and pregnancies.

He has traveled to volunteer on health care relief mission trips to Indonesia, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.

Brian has previously served in some of the largest chiropractic wellness centers in the world. His organization, Maximized Living, is involved in numerous national and international programs and he has published more than eight different books on health and wellness with some reaching the New York Times Best-Selling and Christian Best-Selling lists.

The doctors involved have been designated as the Wellness Advisory Council and the official Team Chiropractors for the Olympic Men’s and Women’s Freestyle and Greco-Roman Wrestling, Weight Lifting, and Judo teams and are currently in the process of expanding these services into numerous other Olympic sports and professional teams.

In the aftermath of the tragic events at Columbine High School, Shepherdstown State University, and Virginia Tech University, the doctors facilitated sessions with community leaders and thousands of parents and family members to provide practical strategies to reduce school violence and address the physical and mental well being of our youth.

“There are few other organizations currently engaged in restoring our body’s natural ability to fight disease and in proactively addressing the root causes of modern illness rather than just treating the symptoms of it.”

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Sterling L. Carter

Sterling L. Carter, PT, MS, CSCS, is the owner of Sterling Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation in Sugar Land. He opened his physical therapy out patient clinic with the mission of bringing expert quality care and exemplary customer service to the Sugar Land area.

Sterling has practiced as a professional physical therapist for more than 14 years. He further enhanced his education with a post-professional masters degree in Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University with a focus in Orthopedics. He is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, a certification common with all professional sports level therapists, athletic trainers and coaches.

A proud protector of his country, Sterling served over 18 years in the United States Army, primarily working as a physical therapist (both active and reserve status).

He currently holds the rank of Major in the Army Reserves and he is the Executive Commander of his military unit. Sterling’s past military and life experiences have afforded him the skills and compassion needed in the healthcare environment. His care and concern for the well-being of people and dedication to excellence, quality, and results are apparent in his vision for this clinic.

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Jessica Anderson

Jessica Anderson is the Marketing Director for Pete & Shorty’s Kitchen & Tap. She attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville and graduated in May 2009 with a bachelors degree in Management and a minor in Marketing.

“Pete & Shorty’s is based on the kind of small-town taverns that have always been popular throughout the Midwest - places where people gather to relax, gossip, meet their friends, eat, and drink. It offers cozy comfort, a welcoming “down-home” atmosphere, and great food at reasonable prices.”

The company has two locations in Florida, the original being in Clearwater and a second in Pinellas Park. “We opened our first Texas location in Sugar Land and plan to open our Katy location in July; with one in Willowbrook opening later in the year.”

Being a new company is a challenge, she adds, but it’s also one our strengths. “We have a unique concept that attracts people and once they’ve experienced us they always come back. We pride ourselves on taking risks and trying things that others have not. I am confident that this is only the beginning of Pete & Shorty’s and I am looking forward to our future accomplishments.”

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Stacy Croft

She began her first business, Sugar Mill Chiropractic, at the age of 25 years in Sugar Land. “It was such a great and wonderful experience that 14 years later I expanded into a second business, Sugar Land Spine and Disc. We offer a non-surgical approach to relieve disc problems and to strengthen a patient’s neck and lower back muscles in an environment focused on resolution to the problem, not just momentary pain relief,” says Stacy. She feels Sugar Land has been a great place to begin a business as it is a growing area with educated people focused on improving their health.

Beginning a career at such a young age was a little challenging as I was unsure of what to expect. But, the community welcomed me warmly and I found everyone was cheering me on to success, adds Stacy. Sugar Land offers many opportunities to give back and to become a part of the community regardless of any person’s interests.”

She is a past member and Woman of Excellence receiver of the Fort Bend ABWA, a prior member of the Fort Bend Chiropractic sports team, and an 11-year member of the Sugar Land Rotary Club.

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Kevin Rios

Cheers to Kevin Rios. Before opening The Post Oak Grill of Sugar Land in 2006, Kevin discovered that customer satisfaction was key to the success of any business. He learned during his studies that wine was an integral part of a great meal. Kevin’s business accomplishments and designations include: International Sommelier Guild Level II, Court of Master Sommeliers’ Level II, Parker & Zraly Wine Certification Level II and Wine Spectator’s Restaurant Wine List Award of Excellence 2009. Kevin plans to continue his education until he achieves his goal of becoming a Master Sommelier.

The original Post Oak Grill on Highway 6 in Sugar Land was so successful that Kevin worked for more than a year to build a new restaurant. His goal was to double his restaurant capacity. The design, his attention to warm wood details, ambiance and waterfront location only serve to compliment the exceptional quality of food Kevin offers at his recently opened restaurant, The Post Oak Grill of Sugar Land, located at 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500, near Whole Foods.

Kevin claims he learned a long time ago that when you become successful you have a responsibility to give back to your community. He has shared his good fortune with The Children’s Miracle Network, The Literacy Council of Fort Bend, and ARC of Fort Bend. He recently was appointed to the Advisory Board of Parks Youth Ranch in Fort Bend County.

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Veronica Barefield

Veronica Garcia Barefield is a Realtor for Keller Williams Realty Southwest. She specializes in the residential and luxury homemarket. From her ten years of experience in sales and her 13 year background as a paralegal in the legal industry with corporate and private companies, she has developed a strong background with contracts and negotiations. “These experiences have allowed me to realize how much I enjoy working and interacting with people,” adds Barefield. “My rewards and accomplishments are extensive, by contributing to a top producing team with Keller Williams.”

She and her family volunteer and are active members of Lakewood Church. “I am also a strong community supporter and leader, active in children organizations, and fundraising for various causes. When I am not attentively working for a client, I can be found reading, shopping, traveling, and spending time with my family.”

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Ashley Kunco

Ashley Kunco is a Realtor with Prudential Gary Greene in Sugar Land.

She, along with her husband, Robert, grew up in Quail Valley and were in the first graduating class from Elkins High School. They married in 2005, and moved to West Houston with their two dogs, Jimmy & Vince… but they cannot wait to get back to Fort Bend. After she obtain Bachelors in Communication studies from Southwest Texas State, she returned to Sugar Land to launch her career in the residential title business with an ultimate goal to become a full time real estate agent. “I love watching Fort Bend grow from the acres of farm lands to booming suburbs.

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Rick Williams

At the age of fifteen, Rick Williams arrived in Houston and later married his college girlfriend Kimberly. Together they moved to Fort Bend county and are parenting their five-year-old daughter.

Upon graduating from high school with average results, Rick spent a year working odd jobs and thinking about what his next move might be. He enrolled in Stephen F. Austin State University where he excelled academically, graduating at the top of his class in 1994 with a business degree in Finance.

Rick’s first job after graduating from college was with Oasys (now Kiersted Systems), where he was responsible for the development and support of applications and processes used to support multi-billion dollar litigation.

In 1997, Rick was one of three individuals who co-founded Medianet (later renamed Tenaid), a company specializing in energy commodity billing solutions.

Rick sold his interest in Tenaid in 2002 and co-founded Texas Direct Auto. Under his leadership Texas Direct Auto has grown from a startup operation to the largest independent dealership in the nation in less than eight years.

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Mike Welch

Mike Welch’s family moved to Houston when he was six years old. He married his high school sweetheart, Stacy. Together they became parents to two children and reside in a suburb in Fort Bend County.

Mike claims his academic performance in high school was average at best, but college was a different story. After making the Dean’s List every semester, Mike graduated as a member of the Honor Society in 1994 with a business degree in Computer Science from Stephen F. Austin State University.

A programmer by trade, he began his career in 1994 as a junior programmer with American General, writing Windows applications for the retirement industry. The mid 1990’s were a booming time for the IT professionals, and in 1996 Mike left his full time job and hired on as a contractor thru OASYS (now Kiersted Systems), where he was responsible for developing software applications used in high profile litigation.

In 1997, Mike and two of his co-workers (one of them Rick Williams) left OASYS to found their own software company Medianet (later renamed Tenaid). After five years, Mike sold his interest in Tenaid and co-founded Texas Direct Auto. Under his leadership Texas Direct Auto has grown from a startup operation to the largest independent dealership in the nation area in less than eight years.

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