

Our Health and Wellness
SPORTS + RECREATION
MLF COMES TO LAKE CONROE
HEALTH + WELLNESS
LSFHC EXPANDS TO MEET DEMANDS THE BENEFITS OF PILATES



SPORTS + RECREATION
MLF COMES TO LAKE CONROE
HEALTH + WELLNESS
LSFHC EXPANDS TO MEET DEMANDS THE BENEFITS OF PILATES
Happy New Year! I hope your holiday season was a resounding success and you are looking forward to the coming year.
If, like me, you resolve to spend more time outdoors this year rather than in front of a screen, we are featuring an event in this issue that can help. It could even kick-start your efforts to have healthy habits for all of 2025. Lake Conroe is the place to watch some professional sports fishermen later in the month; then, you can try to outdo them yourself. Even if you don't catch a bigger fish, you will improve your overall wellness, having spent a day in the great outdoors breathing in healthy fresh air and taking in the beautiful sights on the lake.
Speaking of health, our other stories this month also concern health—yours and that of the community. You will learn about all the great attributes that Pilates offers and all the wonderful things that the Lone Star Family Health Center is doing to improve community health.
Oh, and don't forget the recipes. It's soup season, and nothing tastes better than a hearty cup of soup on a chilly day.
May those you hold dear be near to you this coming year!
ALISON KARTEVOLD, PUBLISHER @CONROECITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Alison Kartevold | Alison.Kartevold@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jo Hammon | Jo.Hammon@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Delaney Baysinger
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Tonya Butler | Tonya.Butler@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Shannon Barghols, Ian Garrett, Travis Hager
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Melonhead Photo
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
6: Congressman
own family’s cancer story. The event raised $800k for cancer.
gives the “State of the State” address to Montgomery County. 7: Attendants at the Creighton Theatre’s fundraiser enjoy performances by area thespians.
There’s no place like the Gulf Coast. Its rich culture, deep history, and vast shoreline from Mexico to Louisiana inspire all of our dishes—which means there’s also no menu like our all-new menu.
Dawn Candy's leadership extends to her involvement with organizations such as the Montgomery County Association of Business Women, The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, and Hands of Justice. She now steps into the role of Executive Director to champion the rights and empowerment of trafficking survivors. In this role, she will lead the organization in its mission to support and empower survivors of human trafficking.
The new center, located at 750 Fish Creek Thoroughfare, is the latest addition to the Woodforest Medical Plaza building, where Doctors can perform surgical procedures on an outpatient basis. Memorial Hermann Woodforest Surgery Center provides a service-oriented environment for patients' surgical procedures. The facility has three operating rooms, one procedure room, and 16 treatment rooms. Its technology allows surgeons to perform procedures in the specialty areas of Orthopedics, Total Joints, Spine, and Pain Management.
Cara McCullom has relocated and renamed her boutique. The new name honors her two daughters, and the new space is at 810 West Montgomery Street in Willis. The boutique sells ladies' clothing, from pajamas to cocktail party attire, in sizes XS to 3X. It also offers decor and gifts, including locally made candles, room sprays, jewelry, shoes, custom sweatshirts, cowboy and trucker hat decoration stations, and more. claytonclaire.com
ARTICLE BY SHANNON BARGHOLS
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY STAFF
Jennifer Rubino and Natalie Luquette - the mother-daughter duo behind BODYBAR Pilates in Woodforest - are quick to point out that Pilates is more than just a fitness trend. It’s a holistic workout that offers a wide range of physical and mental benefits. Whether you’re new to exercise or an experienced athlete, Pilates can improve strength, flexibility, posture, and overall well-being.
At the heart of Pilates is a focus on the seven fundamental movement patterns: bend, squat, lunge, push, pull, twist, and gait. Many Pilates exercises engage the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and hips, which together make up your core. A strong core supports proper posture, stabilizes the spine, and reduces the risk of injury. Whether you’re lifting, bending, or even sitting, a strong core makes everyday movements more efficient and less stressful on the body.
“Pilates is also excellent for improving both flexibility and balance,” says Jennifer. The controlled, flowing movements help lengthen muscles while also strengthening them, which increases range of motion and flexibility. Over time, this improves balance, coordination, and overall mobility, which are essential for injury prevention and better functional movement in daily life.
PROMOTES BETTER POSTURE
Pilates can help reverse the effects of bad posture by strengthening the muscles that support proper spinal alignment. Through exercises that focus on the back,
shoulders, and abdominal muscles, Pilates encourages a more upright and balanced posture, reducing tension in the neck and shoulders.
Pilates is known for its mind-body connection. The exercises require concentration, controlled breathing, and precise movement, which fosters greater awareness of how your body moves. This mindfulness not only enhances your performance during Pilates but also carries over into daily activities. You may find yourself becoming more conscious of your posture, alignment, and movements throughout the day, reducing strain and improving efficiency.
“One of the biggest advantages of Pilates is that it’s low-impact, making it an ideal choice for individuals with joint pain, arthritis, or injuries,” says Natalie. Despite its gentle nature, Pilates is incredibly effective for building strength, endurance, and flexibility. The controlled, slow-paced movements allow for muscle activation without causing excessive strain, which makes Pilates accessible for people at any fitness level.
BOOSTS MENTAL HEALTH
Like any form of exercise, Pilates has positive effects on mental health. The focus on breath and concentration helps reduce stress and promotes a sense of calm and relaxation. “Many people find that Pilates is a great way to clear their minds, improve focus, and alleviate
“Whether you’re new to exercise or an experienced athlete, Pilates can improve strength, flexibility, posture, and overall well-being.”
“Pilates is also excellent for improving both flexibility and balance.” —Jennifer Rubino
anxiety,” explains Jennifer. The meditative aspect of the workout encourages relaxation, which can improve mood and overall mental well-being.
Natalie has a background in collegiate swimming and CrossFit. She says, “Pilates is a favorite among athletes of all types, from runners to swimmers to cyclists. The practice enhances flexibility, balance, and coordination—all crucial elements for improving athletic performance.” Additionally, Pilates helps address muscle imbalances, which can prevent injuries and improve overall functional movement. By complementing your regular training with Pilates, you can boost your strength and prevent overuse injuries.
Pilates provides a comprehensive full-body workout. The exercises target multiple muscle groups at once, helping to build strength and tone the entire body.
“Since many Pilates moves use your own body weight for resistance, it’s a highly effective way to develop lean muscle and improve overall endurance,” according to Natalie. “It’s a great alternative to traditional weight training for those looking to get strong without relying on heavy weights.”
Breath is central to Pilates. The exercises emphasize deep, controlled breathing, which enhances oxygen flow to muscles and improves circulation. Proper breathing also helps to calm the nervous system and release tension in the body. Over time, consistent practice can improve lung capacity, reduce feelings of fatigue, and help you manage stress more effectively.
Pilates is a safe and sustainable workout option, even for those with injuries or chronic pain. The low-impact nature of Pilates makes it gentle on the joints, while the focus on proper alignment and controlled movements reduces the risk of injury. Jennifer reminds us, “Because Pilates is highly adaptable, it can be modified to meet individual needs, making it a workout you can continue to do for years.”
Whether you’re looking to improve core strength, flexibility, or mental clarity, Jennifer and Natalie are focused on creating a warm, welcoming environment at BODYBAR Pilates in Woodforest. People of all ages and fitness levels are invited to try a Classic class today! With regular practice, you’ll experience the many benefits of Pilates and discover just how transformative it can be for your body and mind.
ARTICLE BY IAN GARRETT
Lone Star Family Health Center Begins Using Year Long Expansion
In these days of staggering medical costs – sometimes high enough to bankrupt even the most financially responsible – and longer lives that come with more maladies tagging along, the need for medical relief on the body and wallet alike is greater than ever.
Fortunately, Conroe has what amounts to the Florence Nightingale of such healthcare providers: the Lone Star Family Health Center. This state-ofthe-art facility has offered top-tier medical services to the less fortunate in our community for over two decades.
The not-for-profit center has been undergoing a major expansion that is drawing to a conclusion. Karen Harwell, the center's chief executive officer, has been overseeing the complexities of the expansion for more than a year, as well as the day-to-day operations of the facility itself.
Harwell not only has extensive medical experience but also a longstanding relationship with Lone Star. Originally the chief financial officer starting in 2012, she assumed the mantle of CEO in 2017. Before joining Lone Star twelve years ago, she worked in private practice for a large specialty medical group as its director of finance.
Lone Star is what is known as a Community Health Center, the product of a movement that started in the Civil Rights Era of the 1960s. Though the center in Conroe did not begin until 2002, a residency program established in the 1970s gave medical students seeking residency a chance to practice family medicine locally.
“So we formed in 2002, and right after formation, the original CEO, Doctor Alvin Jones, had the great idea that, ‘Hey, there’s actually federal funding out there for clinics just like ours, as long as we're targeting it right.’ So he applied to get that designation as a federally qualified health center.”
Under the Department of Health and Human Services’ Public Health Service Act, to qualify, the organization must be not-forprofit, community-led by a board of directors, and at least 51 percent of those board members must be patients of the health center.
The formula used to assess the need for a community health center and the populace it serves is complex and includes factors
The expan-
sion of
nearly 30,000 square feet will bring the center’s total area to 100,000 square feet. Pre-expansion, space was limited and mutable. With the additional space, it opens up clearer patient pathways—literally and figuratively—and enhanced working areas for staff.
such as the low ratio of primary care providers for the population, the percentage of the low-income population, and the amount of need and the ability (or lack thereof) to pay for it. Funding from the federal government provides a flat, fixed amount of funds that must go to the patient in the form of sliding fees.
Though the center has grown over the years, a recent massive expansion program is taking Lone Star to the next level.
“In 2010, there were cash reserves that had been built up for expansion,” said Harwell. “But around 2014, there was a lot of interest in adding funding at the federal level to all health centers, and so suddenly, there were all these grants that were available
to just start new sites. So we actually went through really rapid growth with our feeder satellite clinics, adding four of them between 2014 and 2020.”
The center’s cash reserves, money from private and public grants, a loan, and additional funding from an atypical source lent themselves to the expansion of the center's main facility.
“2014, leading to the Affordable Care Act, was what created a big amount of federal investment in health centers. But the next round of funding was COVID funding we received via a grant,” Harwell said.
“Some of the funds had to be put toward expansion; that was the point of the grant. So we chose to not build another new site but instead expand the core of the huband-spoke kind of setup, which is just unique to us, so that as we grow we have a specific central space here to go with our current and any future satellites. So we’ve actually got that now, which is great because part of our new space is dedicated to establishing ‘pods’ in this building.”
The pods are dedicated areas for specific needs. For example, with the expansion, the center will now include a mental health pod; instead of a too-public check-in area with an open waiting room, patients can enjoy more privacy with a separate waiting room and designated check-in staff.
The expansion of nearly 30,000 square feet will bring the center's total area to 100,000 square feet. Pre-expansion, space was limited and mutable. The additional space opens up clearer patient pathways—literally and figuratively—and enhances staff working areas. The modularized pods and a vastly improved pharmacy will also be highlights. Alongside the physical expansion is the installation of enhanced infrastructure.
“We’ve been on the same medical record system since 2002, so you can imagine how difficult it is keeping up with the demands of the digital age. We’ve been forced to use physical paperwork and phones, but with the new system, people will have better access, and everything will become a lot more efficient,” said Harwell.
The center recently received two grants to help expand its services along with its surface area. The first grant totaling $500,000 from the Human Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Acceleration Cancer Screening Program allows the center to enhance screening and referral rates for breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer. The second grant awarded was $1,100,000 from HRSA to expand behavioral health services, including increasing the availability of counseling, psychiatric services, and substance abuse treatment.
Major League Fishing Returns to Lake Conroe
As the new year unfolds, reflecting on the goals that guide us forward and the fresh beginnings that may await is perfectly natural. Whether it's cultivating new habits or simply taking a moment to reconnect with what truly matters, the start of a fresh year invites us to reset and refocus. One of the most potent ways to do this is by stepping away from the distractions of daily life and immersing ourselves in nature.
Whether you search for the quiet solitude of wooded trails or the calming rhythm of a lake's surface, nature offers the space to clear the mind and realign our intentions. Embracing the outdoors isn't just about physical exploration—it's a journey of self-discovery and renewal. Some people are better at doing this than others, so if you need inspiration, you can draw from a group that is spending time on our waters this month. The Major League Fishing tour is all about a healthy relationship with nature.
Lake Conroe is about to make waves once again as it plays host to one of the most exciting events in the world of competitive fishing—Major League Fishing's (MLF) 2025 Bass Pro Tournament. From January 27th to February 2nd, the lake will become the epicenter of angling action, with 65-70 boats of elite anglers vying for victory in the first tour stop of the year.
This year's event also serves as a special occasion for the city as Lake Conroe celebrates its 51st anniversary. Since its creation in the early '70s, the lake has become a cornerstone of local culture, drawing tourists, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The MLF event is the perfect opportunity to honor this milestone while showcasing the lake's continued relevance in the fishing world and the tourism industry.
The last time Major League Fishing visited Lake Conroe was in 2019, and according to Sherry Morgan, Conroe's Visitors Bureau manager, anglers requested to return. "The anglers overwhelmingly requested to come back," Morgan shared, emphasizing how much the competitors and the fans love the lake. With the competition being televised on The Discovery Channel and live-streamed through MLF's website, the world will get to see why Lake Conroe is such a fan favorite.
This year's MLF tournament on Lake Conroe is especially significant for fishing fans across the Lone Star State. It marks the only Texas stop on the 2025 Bass Pro Tournament Tour, bringing a unique spotlight to our region. It's a highly anticipated event that not only draws fishing enthusiasts but underscores the growing prominence of Lake Conroe as a premier destination for outdoor sports.
The tour's first stage of the year always sets the tone for what's to come, and the competition promises to be entertaining. As a host city, Conroe is more than ready to showcase our legendary lake and vibrant community to a national audience.
The benefits of hosting this high-profile event go beyond the thrill of the tournament. As with many major sporting events, the MLF Bass Pro Tournament serves as a powerful tool for local tourism. Morgan notes that this tournament not only attracts thousands of viewers but also generates a significant economic impact for the city. In fact, the Conroe City Council recently approved a $25,000 grant from its hotel occupancy tax fund to support the event, underscoring the importance of tourism and hospitality to the local economy.
The last time Major League Fishing visited Lake Conroe was in 2019, and according to Sherry Morgan, Conroe’s Visitors Bureau manager, anglers requested to return. “The anglers overwhelmingly requested to come back,” Morgan shared, emphasizing how much the competitors and the fans love the lake.
“Stakes are high, but so is the excitement, as anglers use their skills and local knowledge to navigate the waters, hoping to catch the biggest fish, claim victory, and win $150,000.”
With 65-70 boats participating, the competition will be fierce. The best anglers in the world will compete in various stages to secure their place in the finals. Stakes are high, but so is the excitement, as anglers use their skills and local knowledge to navigate the waters, hoping to catch the biggest fish, claim victory, and win $150,000. For fans watching from home, the televised event on The Discovery Channel offers a frontrow seat to all the action, with expert commentary and in-depth coverage of every catch.
The 2025 season has seven stops, during which these professional bass anglers compete for millions of dollars and valuable points in the Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (AOY) race, which qualifies them for REDCREST 2026 and the General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event.
"We're excited about the rollout of the Bass Pro Tour 2025 schedule and what the season will offer to our fans: a fun mixture of new and familiar destinations, with a variety of fishery types and styles," said MLF Executive Vice President and General Manager Kathy Fennel concerning the event in Conroe.
Whether you're a seasoned angler like those competing, an avid fan, or simply looking for a reason to visit one of Texas' favorite lakes, the Major League Fishing event on Lake Conroe is the perfect way to kick off the year and enjoy healthy living in the great outdoors. With its combination of competition and community spirit, this fan-favorite stop will be a thrilling celebration of fishing and Lake Conroe's enduring charm.
ARTICLE AND
BY TYLER SHANE
Hearty food nourishes the body during cold winter months
As we continue to embrace the cold weather, we may find ourselves craving heavier and grounding foods as we retreat into hibernation. This change in appetite reflects our body’s desire to align with the cycles of nature. Moving into the New Year, it can be common to place more discipline or restrictions on our eating habits. But what if instead of dieting, we nourished ourselves by choosing to support the ebb and flow of our body’s seasons? What if we chose connection — cooking seasonal meals and allowing ourselves to pause to truly enjoy our food? Maybe cheesy bread could be served without the side of guilt.
This Italian wedding soup recipe is simple in its approach, but the result is a hearty and brothy dish. Chunky meats and vegetables add texture to the rich, savory broth making it the ideal meal to help you retreat from the cold temperatures. The Hasselback bread loaf is a straightforward, melty wonder and the perfect vessel for sopping up any leftover broth and goodies in your soup bowl. Together, the soup and cheesy bread make for a well-rounded meal to ground you this season, with a little indulgence.
• 1 Italian bread loaf
• 1 cup butter
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 8 oz. bag of shredded mozzarella cheese
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Cut foil that is 3 times the length of the bread loaf and lay flat on countertop.
3. Place bread loaf parallel to the length of the foil.
4. With a serrated knife, cut bread in ¾ in. slices, making not to cut all the way through.
5. Melt butter in a bowl. Add garlic and seasonings. Stir to incorporate.
6. With a pastry brush, coat the slices of bread with butter mixture. Be generous with your butter! If you have leftover butter, pour the rest over the entire loaf.
7. Grab handfuls of mozzarella cheese and stuff in between each slice.
8. Cover the bread loaf with foil and place in oven. Bake for 20 minutes, uncovering the foil for the last 5 minutes until the top of the bread is golden brown.
4 Servings
• 1 lb. fresh or frozen pre-made meatballs
• ½ cup carrots, diced small
• ½ cup celery, diced small
• 1 cup onions, diced small
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 48 oz low sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup orzo pasta (or any small, short noodle)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp fresh ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped roughly
• 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley
1. Whether freshly baked or cooked from frozen, prepare your meatballs and set aside. Meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge.
2. Bring a medium-sized pot to medium heat. Add oil and butter.
3. Add vegetables to the pot and sweat until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir occasionally.
4. Add the bay leaf, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to vegetables. Turn heat to medium-high.
5. Bring broth mixture to a rolling boil for five minutes. With tongs, add meatballs to the boiling broth.
6. Add orzo to the broth, stirring continuously to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
7. Continue to cook the pasta for 6-7 minutes. Taste test to make sure pasta is al dente.
8. Throw the fresh herbs into the soup and add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately.
JANUARY 2025
DECEMBER 31ST
New Years Eve at Margaritaville
License to Chill Bar & Café 600 Margaritaville Pkwy, Montgomery | 6:00 PM
Savor a night of exquisite cuisine, a refined atmosphere, and stunning views that set the perfect scene for a memorable New Year's Eve. From crafted starters to decadent desserts, each course has been meticulously designed to delight your senses and start your year on a high note. 6:00, 8:00, and 10:00 PM | $125 per person, including sparkling wine and glasses.
JANUARY 11TH
The Montgomery County Fair Grounds, 9201 Airport Rd Conroe, TX | 7:30 PM
The Mysterious Circus is an all-new entertainment show presented in a theatrical tent and featuring a talented troupe of world-class artists. It features mind-blowing contortions, high-flying stunts, and the terrifying Globe of Death and the Wheel of Death.
JANUARY 25TH
Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe 600 Margaritaville Pkwy. Montgomery, TX 77356 | 6:00 PM
Please join the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce in honoring Jennifer Millington, the 2024 Chairman of the Board. The program will include award presentations and a "passing of the gavel" ceremony for incoming Chairman Clint Nichols. Dinner, dancing, and casino games will make for an unforgettable evening! Contact the Chamber for tickets chamber.conroe.org | 936-756-6644
CONTINUED
JANUARY 25TH
The One Gala for Mosaics
The Woodlands Resort, 2301 North Millbend Drive, The Woodlands | 6:00 PM
This year’s theme is Charting the Course, and it honors Dr Elizabeth McIngvale for her outstanding contributions to the mental health field. Guests will enjoy a gourmet dinner and live and silent auctions. All proceeds from the event will directly support Mosaics programs and services, including expert navigation assistance, education and advocacy, scholarship assistance, and community collaboration.
JANUARY 28TH
Lone Star Convention Center, 9055 Airport Rd Conroe, | 11:00 AM
Job opportunities are available in a variety of fields and educational opportunities. The Economic Development Council partners with the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, Lone Star College, The Lone Star Convention and Expo Center, and Workforce Solutions. Workshops will include resume writing, interview skills, and how to stand out from the competition.
FEBRUARY 8TH
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center | 6:00 PM
This year’s gala, A Ruby Celebration: 40 Years of Feeding Hope, draws inspiration from the ruby—a symbol of 40th anniversaries—to celebrate Montgomery County Food Bank’s remarkable four-decade journey. Huntsman Corporation presents the premier fundraising event, with proceeds benefiting Montgomery County Food Bank and the many children, families, and seniors it serves. For questions, contact Courtney Budra at cbudra@mcfoodbank.org or 936-271-8804.