HOUSTON-With December not yet at the midway point, a flurry of end-of-the-year transactions delivers money to one developer while sealing deals, such as a new office for Charles Schwab & Co. and sizable industrial leases.

HOUSTON-A growing customer base sparks a San Antonio tire wholesaler to set up shop in Houston. The first tire shipment arrives tomorrow in anticipation of distributing 30,000 tires per year from the site.

HOUSTON-A nationwide pharmaceutical chain marks its Texas inroad with the acquisition of seven pharmacies in the Houston area. The Familymeds Group buyout is part of a 31-property portfolio that's been bought from Integrated Pharmacy Solutions.

HOUSTON-A Houston-based agency and its broker walk away with top honors from the national retail association, ChainLinks. Boyd Page and broker Nick Hernandez are leading forces for ChainLinks' success, says the association president.

HOUSTON-Tweeter has signed for its third spot in the Houston area as the tenant's broker searches for space in two more city submarkets. Meanwhile, high-fashion retailer Soho is making plans for a new store in Woodway Village.

HOUSTON-It's Chase Bank's way of giving back to the community. A 5,000-sf plot is being converted into greenspace, replete with benches and a fountain, for bank workers and passers-by.

HOUSTON-Light rail's a sure bet when it comes to sparking commercial real estate development, specifically around the portals. Those involved with the project point to other cities as proof that rental rates may rise, but so will the economy.

HOUSTON-UIRT unloads an 83,300-sf shopping center in El Campo, TX, in a realignment of assets. The center, says UIRT president and CEO, is a debt-laden, non-core asset with "poor long-term characteristics.