LIFE + CULTURE
SEATS FOR THE CRIGHTON RECOGNIZING MOCO CHARITIES
ARTS + CULTURE
SHOP LIKE SANTA
It's Better to Give than Receive
To me, Christmas is not only a religious holiday but also a time of family. I grew up in a big one, so the holidays were always a chaotic hum of activities. When my husband and I moved away from everyone else, I always found it sad when it was just our two daughters and us, so I always threw parties or we traveled—anything to keep the holidays from seeming like just another day.
Maybe that is why so many people choose to reach out to others at this time of year. We want to make it feel different and unique. We want to feel closer to something bigger and better than our ordinary days. Or maybe we get a chance to slow down long enough to realize all the things going on in each other's lives. Whatever the reason, we seem to be more giving at this time of year. That's why this is our Giving Issue!
If you have not already identified the ways you want to give back to others this season, read on. Our stories this month offer multiple ways to give to those you love and those you don't even know.
Merry Christmas!
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Alison Kartevold | Alison.Kartevold@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jo Hammon | Jo.Hammon@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Tonya Butler | Tonya.Butler@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Delaney Baysinger | delaneybaysinger@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alison Kartevold, Shannon Barghols, Travis Hager
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Melonhead Photo, Travis Hager
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The Lobsterfest Golf Tournament saw companies big and small come out to support the Chamber. 2: Crown, Pure Barr, McKenzie’s BBQ and Burgers, and Lone Star Catering were all well-represented. 3: A silent auction came with people’s steak and lobster dinner at Lone Star Convention Center. 4: This Year, Woodforest Bank was one of Lobsterfest’s Major Sponsors. 5: The Conroe, Lake Conroe Chamber fundraiser, Lobsterfest, attracted 1000 diners and over 200 golfers. 6: CCL was there and brought partners, Margaritaville and Beyond the Fringe, giving out goodie bags. 7: Grilling up the steaks for the Conroe, Lake Conroe Chamber’s Lobsterfest.
8: Dr. Victoria Constance, Children’s Safe Harbor, receives the Community Builders Award from Grand Lodge of Texas. 9: “Wranglers” from New Danville participate in the YMCA Dragon Boat Team Challenge presented by Repsol! 10: Behind-the-scenes look during shooting of the movie “The Beast of Trinity Texas.”
Tis the Seasonin’
Goode cheer is here, and with it, the good food, gifts, and reflection that make the holidays even richer. The meal may be the call to gather, but the traditions and memories made ’round the table—learning to carve the turkey, that same joke Dad tells every year, the fight for the last slice of pie, the most creative use of leftovers—now that’s the cheer we’re here for.
Pre-order by December 15th at GOODECHRISTMAS.COM for convenient pickup at Goode Co. Fish Camp in the Woodlands.
Smalls Sliders comes to Willis
This new drive-through walk-up restaurant, constructed in a shipping container, specializes in serving fresh, made-to-order cheeseburger sliders. Their fries, shakes, queso, and their Smauce® sauce will also make you smile. Brandon Landry started the Louisiana-based chain in 2019, and NFL quarterback Drew Brees backs it. The Willis location is their first expansion into Texas, but others are coming, including future locations in The Woodlands and Conroe. 806 W. Montgomery St., Willis smallssilders.com
Nona’s Italian Grill adds Woodforest Location
This well-established Italian Restaurant has expanded from its Woodlands location. Its mission is to deliver the freshest, most authentic, homemade Italian by offering a variety of dishes such as shrimp scampi, eggplant parmigiana, beef ravioli al pesto, and the Italian Cowboy, which combines steak and pasta. 950 Pine Market Ave., Ste. 400, Montgomery nonasitaliangrill.com
Harbor Veterinary Animal Clinic & Surgical Center Opens in January
This new clinic and surgical and boarding center is already accepting appointments as it prepares for its January opening. Owner and veterinarian Aaron Rainer’s practice offers preventative and advanced care for your pet’s entire life, ranging from vaccinations to emergency surgeries and orthopedic, geriatric, and end-of-life care. 3000 W. Davis St., Ste. 1A, Conroe | myharborvet.com
Seats for the Crighton
FUNDRAISES TO UPDATE AN ICONIC VENUE
January 4, 2025
January 10, 2025
Performances run through December 15th
ARTICLE BY ALISON KARTEVOLD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Since the Crighton Theatre was built in 1934 by Harry M. Crighton, a Conroe druggist turned oil investor turned Mayor, its ornate architecture and commitment to showcasing the arts have made it a community icon. The theatre underwent a major renovation in 1979, and now, as it marks its 90th anniversary, it is due for another.
A campaign to update the theatre’s seats is underway. It kicked off November 7th at a fundraising dinner called “Take a Seat for the Crighton.” Those attending the event at Madera Estates had the first chance to sponsor a new seat, and now more opportunities are being offered to the public.
“It's just amazing, it's 90 years old, and it's gorgeous!” Says the theater’s Executive Director Melody Montez of the Renaissance Revival style building. “It brings so much to the community.”
The theatre has 520 seats, and those who sponsor the new replacements will have a plaque with the donator’s name placed on the back of them. Montez helped design the new seats, which have wooden backs and red velvet-type cushions to match the curtained stage and remain in keeping with the ambiance of the Crighton’s storied past.
For decades, patrons have sat in the current seats to watch plays and listen to concerts. Montez says about 40-thousand people sit in them a year. Due to the ongoing wear and tear, hinges fail, and bolts loosen from the floor. Montez estimates that three or four seats must now be fixed each month.
“It’s just amazing, it’s 90 years old, and it’s gorgeous!”
Street view of the Crighton
In 2020, the last remodel expanded the lobby of the Crighton into the adjacent Muse Building and provided room for additional restrooms. Still, nothing else major has been updated in the theatre since 1979. “We don’t have all the fancy stuff that new theatres have,” says Montez, “but I like that we do a lot of stuff old-school style.”
In an age when young adults long for anything non-digital (think listening to records instead of streaming), the Crighton’s appeal remains steady. It fills a vital role in the community by providing a home to about 1,000 performers and support staff each year, not to mention tens of thousands of patrons.
“When I walked into it in 1994, I fell in love,” says Montez of the Crighton, “and that feeling has never gone away.” So, as the board tries to keep the landmark in good working order, seats and flooring were next on the list of needed updates.
To keep this living time capsule sound, an estimated $400,000 will be needed to replace the seats and flooring. Sponsorship for the 60 seats in the front and middle of the theatre is available for $2500 each. The remainder of the seats on the main floor each cost $1000, while you can get your name on a seat for $500 in the balcony.
“When I walked into it in 1994, I fell in love,” says Montez of the Crighton, “and that feeling has never gone away.”
New seat design
The theatre is the home base for performances by Stage Right Productions and the Christian Youth Theatre and hosts various live music concerts and performance shows throughout the year. From Stage Right this holiday season, you can see the play based on Roald Dahl’s famous novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which features an original score composed by Marc Shaiman with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray) and a book by David Greig.
Then, in January, three concerts will appear as part of the theatre’s tribute band series. Straight from Las Vegas, Reflections of the Carpenters with Rita Lim will perform on January 4th. The popular Beatlemania64, a live multi-media spectacular, will hit the stage on the 10th, quickly followed by a Tony Bennett tribute on January 11th.
The great seat exchange is scheduled to take place after the holiday performances of 2025. If you’d like to donate to the campaign or buy a ticket to a show, you can call the box office Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. at 936-441-7469.
“We don’t have all the fancy stuff that new theatres have, but I like that we do a lot of stuff old-school style.”
Finalist preforms at the Young Texas Artists competition.
ORGANIZATIONS AND PEOPLE THAT DRIVE CHANGE AND INSPIRE OTHERS.
Montgomery County’s Charitable Giving
ARTICLE BY SHANNON BARGHOLS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Jesus and Melania's new Habitat for Humanity home in Montgomery County
“
Get inspired to help someone else this holiday season!
This is the time of year when most of us start thinking about helping those in need. Fortunately, there are a variety of nonprofit organizations in Montgomery County that think about this year-round, so you don't have to. No matter who you feel called to assist, Montgomery County likely has an organization already in place.
Their leaders share a common bond: a commitment to social impact and community betterment. The involvement of people from these organizations often stems from a desire to address pressing societal issues, such as hunger, poverty, and violence. By leveraging their skills and resources, these leaders not only drive change but also inspire others to participate in philanthropy and civic engagement. Their work in our community allows them to build networks, share knowledge, and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. This engagement enhances their leadership skills, enriches their perspectives, and reinforces their sense of purpose, ultimately creating a ripple effect that positively influences both the organizations they serve and our community as a whole. We’re proud to highlight these organizations and their leaders:
HABITAT FOR HUMANITYMONTGOMERY COUNTY
Vicki Johnson, Executive Director habitatmctx.org
Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County empowers communities and fosters strength, stability, and self-reliance through safe and affordable housing. Since its establishment in 1989, it has created partnerships with dedicated volunteers, community members, and aspiring homeowners, working collaboratively to provide decent, safe, affordable housing. Habitat for Humanity partners with families to help them build or improve the place they call home through its Home Ownership and Critical Home Repair programs, as well as Veterans and Aging in Place Initiatives. Habitat’s vision and mission are
made possible with the support of volunteers, donors, and sponsors.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER
Judge Mark Keough mcaspets.org
Montgomery County Animal Shelter is dedicated to engaging the hearts, hands, and minds of the community to help animals. Its vision is to be the nationally recognized model of excellence in animal care and placement, serving as a beacon of best practices dedicated to the humane, efficient, high-quality care of animals within its shelter. It longs to see the day when shelter killing no longer exists. In addition to the adoption of dogs and cats, the Montgomery County Animal Shelter trains people to foster cats and dogs while also coordinating animal intake and rescues. It also provides a low-cost wellness clinic for preventative care. If you plan on giving someone a pet this Christmas, consider adopting one from the shelter.
MOCO WOMEN'S CENTER
Sarah Raleigh, President & CEO mcwctx.org
Montgomery County Women’s Center is proud to offer a comprehensive array of trauma-informed programs for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault. It believes in the right of all persons to live without fear, abuse, oppression, and violence. It recognizes the strength and courage it takes to begin the process of healing from all types of abuse, including physical, psychological, sexual, economic, and spiritual. To heal, it provides survivors an opportunity to experience a safe, secure, and supportive environment to regain their personal strength and restore their lives. Services include a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency shelter, counseling and support groups, legal services, transitional housing, outreach and education, and the Something Special Store.
Executive
staff.
County Food Bank's
is constantly partnering with area companies to feed our county.
Montgomery
Kristine Marlow
Angel Reach's
Director, Dan Alexander, celebrates with
ANGEL REACH
Dan Alexander, Executive Director angelreach.org
Angel Reach works tirelessly to achieve its mission of breaking the generational cycle of abuse, neglect, and homelessness, affecting youth who age out of the foster care system and those at risk of homelessness. Through a transitional living program and the kinship program, Angel Reach is dedicated to helping these youth move towards better lives filled with hope and opportunities. The Resource Center is where clients are empowered to replace crisis, homelessness, and hopelessness with hope, security, knowledge, and skills to become productive citizens. Angel Reach believes every young adult deserves a chance to have a safe place to learn how to become a productive adult. Its goal is to coach, counsel, advocate, and guide clients toward a productive and meaningful life.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY FOOD BANK
Kristine Marlow, President & CEO mcfoodbank.org
Montgomery County Food Bank operates drivethru food distributions that allow it to bring food assistance directly to areas of high need, serving up to 150-250 families at each distribution. It also delivers fresh, nutritious groceries directly to seniors’ doors. The Food Bank also works with 70+ schools within the six school districts in MoCo. It provides nutritious, kid-friendly food for children who may not have access to healthy food through 20+ school pantries, school mobile markets, and a backpack food program. It also offers nutrition resources and classes to seniors, adults, and children. Courses cover the basics of good nutrition, how to grocery shop on a budget, and how to prepare healthy foods.
CHILD ADVOCATES OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Ann Marie Ronsman, President & CEO childadvocatestexas.org
Child Advocates of Montgomery County empowers vulnerable children through volunteer advocacy and strengthens their family and community with education so they can flourish in a safe, nurturing environment. Its vision is a connected community where children and families thrive, working to eliminate childhood trauma, abuse, and neglect. Its work stands at the intersection of compassion and circumstance to provide hope for the most vulnerable children and families in our community. Advocates provide valuable information and assistance to help ensure a child’s best interest is met. This includes supporting children in foster care whose families are involved in the child welfare system, youth involved in the juvenile justice system, and youth struggling with school attendance or participation.
COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE CENTER
Jennifer Huffine, President & CEO CAC-mctx.org
The Community Assistance Center (CAC) offers vital support to neighbors across Montgomery County facing financial hardships by providing essential needs, services, and personalized case management. Life's challenges, such as job loss, household separations, and medical crises, can leave many struggling to meet even the most basic needs. CAC steps in during these critical moments, offering not only immediate assistance but also sustainable solutions to help stabilize neighbors
and families. Through thoughtful community partnerships and intentional recovery goals, CAC empowers neighbors to rebuild their foundation, fostering self-sufficiency and promoting healthier, stable futures for themselves, their families, and our community.
THE WOODFOREST CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
Kim Marling, Executive Vice President woodforestcharitablefoundation.org
The Woodforest Charitable Foundation’s (WCF) purpose is to enrich communities through partnerships with charitable organizations. Its priorities are hunger, housing, health, and family support. WCF is committed to supporting programs such as the backpack program, which provides a weekend food supply to children who may otherwise go without. WCF provides funding to organizations whose mission it is to provide decent housing to the working poor and disabled veterans. It also partners with community non-profit agencies that strive to improve healthcare for low-income families and individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. WCF provides funding to organizations whose mission is to empower disadvantaged, abused, neglected, or those considered to be at-risk so that they may overcome obstacles, build a better future, and become productive, contributing members of society.
If you feel inspired by the work of any of these organizations, reach out to determine their volunteer and donation needs. All of them can offer you many ways to help.
Woodforest Charitable Foundation (From left): Kim Marling, Executive VP; Charlie Marling, CFO & Treasurer; and Amy Sechelski, Office Manager
Cars for Christmas!
Choose between a luxury SUV or Pickup as the ultimate gift for that special someone!
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS HAGER
The quest for the perfect gift intensifies with the arrival of the holidays. This year, why not think big and surprise your loved ones with two of the most exciting vehicles on the market? Enter the Genesis GV80 and the Dodge Ram Laramie—two extraordinary gifts that cater to different tastes but share a common thread of excellence. The GV80 embodies luxury and sophistication, offering a serene driving experience wrapped in elegant design,
while the Ram Laramie stands as a testament to rugged capability and versatility, perfect for those who appreciate power and practicality. Whether it’s a taste of opulence or a sturdy companion for adventures, these two vehicles promise to make this Christmas unforgettable. Let’s jump into what makes each of these vehicles a standout choice!
2025 DODGE RAM LARAMIE 4X4
Interior Features:
Step inside, and the 2025 Ram Laramie offers a cabin that marries functionality with sophistication. The centerpiece is a striking 12-inch touchscreen that delivers crisp and clear visuals, enhancing the vehicle’s tech-forward appeal.
Music lovers will appreciate the premium sound system, featuring high-quality Alpine speakers and an amplifier that ensures every journey is accompanied by superb audio. The interior is adorned with various luxurious options, including soft Natura leather.
Driving Experience:
Driving the Ram 1500 feels more akin to piloting a large crossover than a traditional pickup. Thanks to its five-link coil spring rear suspension, ride
2025 Dodge Ram Laramie 4x4
quality is extraordinarily smooth, enhancing handling and trailer control. The smooth-shifting eightspeed automatic transmission adds to the overall driving experience.
The two variants of the Hurricane inline-six engine are where the real excitement lies. The standard output delivers power early but doesn’t sustain it at higher RPMs. In contrast, the high-output version takes a moment longer to spool but delivers an exhilarating performance once it does. With a long, meaty torque curve, this engine is a joy to rev, providing a thrilling experience for those who appreciate performance. Towing capacity reaches a maximum of 11,580 pounds, ensuring the Ram 1500 remains a formidable workhorse.
Conclusion:
In summary, the 2025 Dodge Ram Laramie 4x4 and its Ram 1500 counterparts represent the pinnacle of luxury and performance in the full-size pickup segment. The new Hurricane engine ensures that even without the Hemi V8, the Ram delivers a powerful and exhilarating driving experience. With an interior that pays meticulous attention to detail and boasts top-tier technology, the 2025 Ram Laramie is undeniably a standout choice for any truck enthusiast. Whether you're looking for a reliable workhorse or a luxurious ride, this truck is worth considering for your next adventure on the road.
2025 GENESIS GV80
For 2025 Genesis GV80 continues to set the benchmark in the mid-size luxury SUV market, blending opulence, cutting-edge technology, and impressive performance in a stunning world-class package. As the flagship SUV from Genesis, the GV80 is designed to compete with premium rivals while offering exceptional value. For 2025, the GV80 introduces a mild refresh to both its exterior and interior, enhancing its already luxurious appeal and reinforcing its reputation as a serious contender in the segment.
The Ram delivers a powerful and exhilarating driving experience.
With an interior that pays meticulous attention to detail and boasts top-tier technology, the 2025 Ram Laramie is undeniably a standout choice.
This year’s GV80 carries forward its distinctive and elegant design, characterized by a bold front grille, signature quad LED headlights, and a sleek profile. The long hood, flowing roofline, and wide stance give the GV80 a commanding presence on the road. The rear of the SUV is equally eye-catching, with signature split taillights and a clean, minimalist design that reinforces the vehicle’s sophisticated aesthetic. The available 22-inch wheels and chrome accents add to its luxurious appeal, making the GV80 the most striking SUV in its class.
Driving Experience:
The 2025 Genesis GV80 offers two powertrain options, delivering a balance of power and refinement. While the base engine is a turbocharged 2.5liter four-cylinder that produces 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This week’s press model is perfect for those seeking more power. The available 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 bumps up to an impressive 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, making the GV80 a more dynamic performer, especially when paired with its
all-wheel-drive system. Suspension is tuned for comfort, yet it still offers entertaining handling for a vehicle in this category, making the GV80 both a comfortable cruiser and a confident performer on the twisties.
Standard safety technologies include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. This trim-level test vehicle also offers more advanced features like a 360-degree camera and Genesis’ Highway Driving Assist, which provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
INTERIOR
Inside, the 2025 GV80’s cabin is a showcase of luxury, craftsmanship, and modern technology. The spacious interior is wrapped in high-quality materials, including leather upholstery, real wood trim, and metal accents.
World Class interior w/ massaging seats
The front seats are both plush and supportive, offering heating, ventilation, and massaging options for comfort. Passengers in the back seat are also treated to gracious legroom and upper-end amenities like heated seats and climate control.
The heart of the interior is a large 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which integrates navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Lexicon audio system. The digital instrument cluster and head-up display (HUD) further enhance the tech-forward feel of the cabin. The GV80 also offers a suite of optional features, including a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and a rear-seat entertainment system, ensuring that the GV80 can be configured to meet the needs of even the most discerning of buyers.
SUMMARY
The 2025 Genesis GV80 is a well-rounded luxury SUV that combines bold styling, a luxurious interior, and powerful performance in a package that stands out in a crowded segment. Its refined driving dynamics, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features make it a top choice for those looking for a premium midsize SUV. With competitive pricing, a strong list of standard features, and the option to add further customization, the GV80 remains one of the best value propositions in the luxury SUV market.
A special thank you to DeMontrand in Conroe and Genesis of Spring for graciously providing vehicles for us to test.
Its refined driving dynamics, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features make it a top choice for those looking for a premium midsize SUV.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS DECEMBER
DECEMBER 3RD
Habitat MCTX
Giving Tuesday
On-line | All Day
Habitat For Humanity Montgomery County uses Giving Tuesday to harness the power of social media to encourage people to give back to their communities during the holiday season. Givers are invited to take action however they feel inspired to—through donations, volunteering, advocacy, acts of kindness, and more. Everyone, including families, individuals, companies, and organizations, can participate in Giving Tuesday.
DECEMBER 6TH
One Night in Bethlehem
Grace Baptist Church, 11920 Stidham Rd, Conroe | 6:00 PM
Everyone is invited to celebrate this Christmas Season with this journey back in time to see the night our Savior was born. Come out and enjoy a FREE drive-thru nativity along with scenes from the story of Jesus’ birth. Visitors will receive a free Christmas ornament and more! Hot chocolate will be served!
DECEMBER 7TH
Grand Central Park
Artisan Market, presented by Johnson Development
The Lake House at Grand Central Park, 1039 Lake House Dr, Conroe | 9:00 AM
Discover locally made foods, flowers, arts, and crafts at this Artisan Market. Nestled in the heart of the Grand Central neighborhood, you are invited to stroll through a unique selection of handcrafted treasures and artisanal treats. It’s the perfect destination to immerse yourself in a creative community. GrandCentralParkTX. com. Runs until 1:00 PM
DECEMBER 7TH
Montgomery County
Mistletoe Market
Lone Star Convention Center, 9055 Airport Rd, Conroe | 9:00 AM
Get a jump start on all your Christmas shopping and support local businesses. Organizers say 230+ vendors will offer everything from clothing to home, holiday and garden decor, gourmet food items, handmade and fashion jewelry, and more! Entry is $5 cash. Teachers, Military personnel, and First Responders with ID and Children under 15 have Free Entry! Runs until 4:30 Holidayextravaganza@yahoo.com
DECEMBER 7TH AND 17TH
Breakfast with Santa at Margaritaville Lake Resort
Lake Conroe
Del Lago Ballroom, Margaritaville, 600 Margaritaville, Park Way, Montgomery | 8:30 AM
Get into the holiday spirit at a festive Breakfast with Santa. This holiday tradition is perfect for families and friends to celebrate with a delicious breakfast buffet and photo opportunities. Adults: $39.95++ | Children: $24.95++ from 6 - 12 years | Children 5 & under eat free Members receive 20% off. Valet parking available. Reservations Strongly Recommended
DECEMBER 8TH
Run the Reindeer 5K
Lone Star College-Conroe Center, 777 Conroe Park North Drive, Conroe | 7:30 AM
This Conroe 10, 5, and 5k offers participants a nice run through northern Montgomery County. The starting and finish lines are at Lone Star Community College’s Conroe Campus. Run alongside the Conroe 10 and 5 Miler presented by Houston Methodist Orthopedics and Sports Medicine!
Shop like Santa
Get through your list early then kick back like Santa on the 26th!
If you are tired of heading to the mall when Santa heads for his sleigh, use one of these ideas to get past the stress and get on to the business of celebrating Christmas.
CONCERT TICKETS:
Whether the person on your list is a crooner, a rocker, or a symphony fan, a pair of concert tickets can hit the right note. In Conroe, the Crighton and Owen theaters offer season tickets for various acts and plays. crightontheatre.org, playerstheatrecompany.com.
The Conroe Symphony performances are also available. conroesymphony.org Plus, don’t forget the Cynthia Woods Pavillion is right down the road and offers a world-class outdoor venue with multiple options. Check their lineup at woodlandscenter.org
GOLF PACKAGE:
Give a round of golf at one of the elite courses in our area, or make it a weekend staycation for the whole family at the Margaritaville Lake Resort. Maybe you can even sneak in a spa treatment for yourself or add it to your gift. margaritavilleresorts.com
PICKLE BALL LESSONS AND GEAR:
This is a sport the entire family can play together. Its popularity stems from how quickly you can become proficient at it, but there is always room for improvement. And don’t forget the accessories. The Pickleball Hideout in Montgomery has six dedicated courts. pickleballhideout.com
REMOTE CAR STARTER:
This is an excellent gift for our furnace-hot summers. With a remote starter, your recipient can cool their car before entering or leaving the comfort of their home or office. shopwiesneraccessories.com
RECORD PLAYER & LPS:
What once was old is new again. In every price range, you can find collectible vintage record players and brand-new ones online. Look for LPs at vintage record stores, antique malls, or online. The Conroe Central Market at 225 N Thompson St has two floors of antiques with many LPs.
ARTICLE BY ALISON KARTEVOLD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELONHEAD
Santa after the LIST is checked twice!
PHOTO
