HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE
One Year is so Sweet
As I sit down to write this letter, I’m filled with immense gratitude. One year ago, Porter City Lifestyle launched its first issue, a fresh voice in our community, celebrating the vibrancy, diversity, and spirit of this incredible place we all call home. Today, as we mark our first anniversary in print, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that has brought us here.
Over the past year, we have grown in ways that we could have only dreamed of when we started. From our early days, we’ve aimed to be more than just a magazine—we wanted to be a reflection of Porter/New Caney’s unique culture, a celebration of the people and businesses that make this community so special. Our pages have been filled with stories of local entrepreneurs, artists, and artisans. October holds a special focus on food and drink, because nothing brings people together quite like a good meal or a shared drink.
Whether it’s been highlighting the best local eateries or sharing recipes from talented home cooks, we’ve made it our mission to showcase the flavors of Porter and New Caney. Food is more than just sustenance; it’s a way of connecting with others, of telling stories, and of celebrating life’s moments, big and small.
But our success hasn’t been just about what’s on the page. It’s about the incredible community that has supported us from day one. You’ve shared your stories, your photos, and your ideas with us, and in doing so, you’ve made Porter City Lifestyle a true reflection of our collective spirit. We’ve had the privilege of being involved in countless community events, collaborating with local businesses, and giving back through initiatives that matter to all of us.
This magazine wouldn’t be what it is today without the dedication of our amazing team. Every article, every photo, and every layout is a labor of love. Our team’s passion for this publication has brought us to where we are now.
As we look to the future, we’re excited about what’s to come. We’ll continue to celebrate Porter and New Caney, spotlighting the places and people that make our community so rich in flavor and culture. We’ll keep telling the stories that matter, and we’ll keep finding new ways to engage as much as possible.
Thank you for being a part of our journey so far. Here’s to many more years of celebrating our community together!
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Rachel Burk | rachel.burk@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stacy Leach | stacy.leach@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jamie Allgood | jamie.allgood@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rachel Burk, Amber Dobyns, and Stacy Leach
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Fireheart Photography
RACHEL BURK, PUBLISHER @PORTERCITYLIFESTYLE
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: An enchanting Aloha Night at Big Rivers Waterpark, filled with tropical vibes and endless fun! 2: Seniors painted their parking spaces and are now gearing up for their final Homecoming game. 3: Our youngest residents enjoyed an amazing soccer clinic in The Highlands. 4: While kids are back in school, PCL enjoys a little purse bingo with other moms. 5: PCL enjoys some amazing cocktails with friends at Union Kitchen. 6: EMC Sideline Cheerleaders bring high energy and spirited cheers, rallying the crowd with every move! 7: HMGT New Caney/Splendora Committee members enjoyed a fun night of BUNCO!
BIG RIVERS WATERPARK & ADVENTURES
SCOTT BAKER
THE HIGHLANDS TEXAS BY CALDWELL COMMUNITIES
The Highlands by Caldwell Communities Gives Back
The Highlands by Caldwell Communities proudly contributed $3,000 each to Sleep In Heavenly Peace and The Montgomery County Food Bank, following the success of their All Trails Lead Home Tour earlier this year. This generous donation underscores their commitment to supporting local causes and making a positive impact in the community. The funds will help provide much-needed resources to those in need, furthering the mission of both organizations.
Socktober Fun!
Please join Donnie with Dryer Vent Authority & Elite Hospital Kingwood as they team up for a special Socktober event this October. From October 1ST-31ST, they’ll be collecting socks to donate to those in need. Keep an eye out for more details on how you can contribute and make a difference this Socktober!
Scan to read more
Heather Herlong Events Launches a National Strategic Planning Division!
Heater is a Strategic Event Planner & Consultant, dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, executives, and community leaders to advance their businesses. Her mission is to refine strategies, eliminate distractions, and create impactful experiences that genuinely work, making a meaningful difference while earning a living.
ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH
Herb Your Enthusiasm
FALL COOKING WITH FRESH FLAVORS
Sage
Sage brings a warm, earthy flavor to your dishes. Perfect for roasted meats, hearty stews, and savory stuffing, this versatile herb adds depth and richness, making your fall meals even more comforting and delicious.
Rosemary
Cooking with rosemary infuses dishes with a robust, aromatic flavor. Ideal for roasted meats, vegetables, and breads, this versatile herb enhances the taste of your meals, adding a fragrant, earthy note that embodies the essence of fall cuisine.
Thyme
This versatile herb pairs well with roasted meats, vegetables, and soups, enhancing their taste with its delicate, slightly minty aroma, perfect for warming fall recipes.
Parsley
Parsley brings a fresh, vibrant flavor to your dishes. This versatile herb is perfect for garnishing soups, salads, and pastas, adding a touch of color and a mild, slightly peppery taste that brightens any meal.
Cooking with cilantro adds a burst of freshness to your dishes. This aromatic herb enhances salsas, curries, and salads with its bright, citrusy flavor. Perfect for garnishing, cilantro provides a lively and distinct taste to any meal.
Cilantro
Sweet CREATIONS
ASHLEY STINSON WHIPS UP MAGIC AT FLOUR CHILD BAKING CO.
ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS
With a sprinkle of tradition, a dash of creativity, and a heaping spoonful of passion,
Ashley Stinson launched Flour Child Baking Company, where every treat is a delicious adventure. What began with a childhood wish for an Easy-Bake Oven has now blossomed into a full-fledged bakery, where Ashley’s kitchen becomes a playground of flavors. Each of her made-fromscratch recipes is a delicious experiment, drawing in new and returning customers who can’t resist the allure of her latest creations. Her “Whoopsie Daisies” take a classic whoopie pie and give it a Southern
twist, creating a fan-favorite that’s as irresistible as it is unique.
Ashley’s creations aren’t just desserts; they’re experiences. Each morsel carries the warmth of quality ingredients and the joy of homemade goodness, crafted to evoke fond memories and create new ones. It’s love at first bite once you indulge in Ashley’s light chocolatey cake cookies sandwiched around a whipped vanilla buttercream as your taste buds thank you, asking for more.
Inspired by her family’s support, Ashley’s journey with Flour Child Baking Co. has been a collaborative adventure. Family conversations have been a wellspring of inspiration, influencing everything from product selection to daring new creations.
One of Ashley’s cherished memories is crafting a three-tier white raspberry cake for her brother’s wedding, where the secret ingredient was not just skill, but a generous dose of love.
This fall, Flour Child Baking Co. is celebrating pumpkin spice season with a lineup of seasonal delights, from Tres Leches to turtle pecan pumpkin pie cheesecake. By mixing equal parts creativity, recent trends, and feedback, Ashley brings customers along for the ride through her Instagram stories, where they can vote for new flavor combinations or get a sneakpeak at the next pop-up event. Keep an eye on her posts @flour.child.bakingco, and let your taste buds embark on the sweetest journey yet!
ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIREHEART PHOTOGRAPHY
Turning Fear into Resilience
Lisa Wallrath’s Journey of Fighting with Faith
“You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice. Embrace the journey, trust in your inner strength, and let hope be your guide. The fight is tough, but so are you.”
-Unknown
From a young age, we’re often told to trust our inner voice—the subtle whisper of instinct that guides us through life’s most uncertain moments.
For Lisa Wallrath, owner of Dynamic Entertainment Productions, that voice became a lifeline during an ordinary shower when she felt a lump in her breast between the wash, rinse, and repeat cycles. Wrestling with denial, she meditated about what to do next, turned on her favorite song, and had an epiphany: it was time to trust her instincts and schedule a doctor’s appointment.
Lisa’s world came crashing down when she heard the words, “You have breast cancer.” In a time when words were failing her, music became her solace, helping her navigate the overwhelming emotions of fear, anger, and uncertainty all harmonized to confusion as there was no history of breast cancer in her family. How could this be happening? She had done everything right—maintained a healthy diet, stayed active, and lived well. But none of that mattered now. She knew she needed to become more in-tune with herself to fight this battle.
The journey would be grueling—chemo, surgery, radiation—all while the world outside her door was locked down due to the coronavirus pandemic.
As Lisa shared the devastating news with her family, a wave of guilt swept over her—she felt like she was letting them down. Her husband became her rock, music remained her melody, and she transformed her fear and anger into fight. Lisa decided that she was going to take control of her journey and scale the treatment plans to not only survive, but thrive with prayer as her strongest weapon.
Surrounded by the love of her friends, family, and “friendors” in the entertainment industry, Lisa was reminded of how far she had come, not just how far she had to go. She continued pouring herself into her work, bringing her best self to the events she managed through her company, Dynamic Entertainment Productions. Lisa has always enjoyed seeing others happy, and providing DJ services, creating the perfect playlist, watching wedding guests sway to the music, or strike a pose for a selfie in the photo booth would inspire her to stay optimistic and persevere.
CONTINUED >
Breast cancer survivors often say they’ve been blessed with two lives: the one before the diagnosis and the one they truly live after. Although her diagnosis will always be a part of her story, Lisa is a survivor in every sense. She emerged from the battle not just as a survivor, but as a warrior with a mission. She encourages others facing this journey to follow in her
footsteps and find joy in what they love, join support groups, and share their stories to educate and spread awareness. Through her faith, will to survive, and determination to 'fight like a girl,' Lisa has become an inspirational figure, proving that with courage, love, and a little music, even the darkest moments can give rise to an extraordinary light.
“She emerged from the battle not just as a survivor, but as a warrior with a mission.”
COCKTAIL KITCHEN
ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIREHEART PHOTOGRAPHY
A NEIGHBORHOOD HAVEN OF MODERN ELEGANCE AND CULINARY CRAFT
Union Kitchen is a neighborhood gem that combines the warmth of a local eatery with the sophistication of a modern dining experience. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Union Kitchen offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes, featuring everything from comforting Southern classics to innovative, globally-inspired dishes. Each location has its own Executive Chef with 20 percent of the menu unique to each location, built specifically for the neighborhoods they serve.
But it's not just the food that stands out—Union Kitchen is also renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic drink or something with a creative twist, their bartenders mix up perfection in every glass.
ESPRESSO MARTINI
A refined blend of bold espresso, smooth vodka, and a touch of coffee liqueur. This elegant cocktail delivers a perfect balance of rich coffee flavor, creamy texture, and just the right amount of sweetness. Ideal as an after-dinner treat, it is a must-try for anyone who loves a luxurious, energizing cocktail experience.
COLD BREW WHITE RUSSIAN
A sophisticated twist on a classic. Combining smooth vodka, rich coffee liqueur, and velvety cream with a refreshing cold brew, this cocktail offers a perfect blend of robust coffee flavor and creamy indulgence. Served over ice, it's an ideal drink for those who enjoy a luxurious, caffeinated cocktail that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
FRENCH BLONDIE
HUGO SPRITZ
A refreshing cocktail that captures the essence of summer. This delightful drink features a blend of elderflower liqueur, Prosecco, and soda water, garnished with fresh mint and a slice of lime. Light, bubbly, and aromatic, it is perfect for those who enjoy a crisp and invigorating cocktail with a touch of floral sweetness.
An elegant cocktail that blends the smoothness of St-Germain elderflower liqueur with the crispness of Lillet Blanc. Finished with a splash of sparkling wine and a twist of lemon, this cocktail offers a perfect balance of floral and citrus notes. It is light, refreshing, and effortlessly chic.
Wellness Together: A Collaborative "Ladies Night Out" by Health in Progress & Porter City Lifestyle
Tuesday, October 17, 2024
5:30 - 7:30 p.m
in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Gather your friends and join us for an evening dedicated to women, wellness, empowerment, and education.
Featuring Interactive Stations:
*truSculpt ID Sessions: Targeting the neck and face to enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence.
*Vitality B12 Shots: Recharge with a quick B12 shot
* Oral tests: valuable insights into your vascular health
* Body Composition Analysis: Clearer picture of your health and fitness levels
* Breast Cancer Awareness: Empower yourself with knowledge on prevention, and early detection.
Refreshments &
educational
RAISING Awareness
ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH
The 15th Annual In the Pink Northeast Luncheon will take place on Friday, October 18, 2024, at The Humble Civic Center, accommodating 700 guests. Held on National Mammogram Day, this event benefits Project Mammogram, an initiative founded in 2001 to improve early detection of breast cancer through education, screenings, and diagnostics. The program, supported by the Northeast Hospital Foundation, has served over 11,000 residents and conducted 600-800 procedures annually, detecting 6-12 cancers each year. With breast cancer being the most common cancer among women, early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Project Mammogram offers free mammograms and diagnostic services to those in need, especially the uninsured or underinsured. By attending the luncheon or donating, you can support this vital cause and help provide life-saving screenings. For tickets, sponsorships, and donations, or if you need assistance, call 281-540-6443. Join us in making a difference in the fight against breast cancer—let’s see you there, in PINK! For event ticket, sponsorship, and donations, OR information on Project Mammogram, please visit: https://www.northeasthospitalfoundation.org/
Table Talk
WHY ITALIANO’S RESTAURANT KEEPS DINERS COMING BACK: A LOOK AT LOCAL REVIEWS
ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH
At Italiano’s, the friendly staff goes above and beyond to make your visit unforgettable. They deliver authentic Italian flavors with traditional dishes that always keep you coming back. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner for two or a celebratory feast with family and friends, you’ll be treated to an experience that’s as comforting as it is delicious. From the moment you walk in, the warm atmosphere and rich aromas of classic Italian cuisine invite you to savor every bite where a fabulous meal awaits you!
Italiano’s has been a “go-to” location for many of my family, business, and life events for decades. You can count on outstanding food and service, but it encompasses way more than that. Italiano’s serves our community, invites us individually to be part of their story, and infuses their staff with a caring attitude. Whether looking for a place to hold an event, to take your parents out for their 80th birthday, to meet a business associate and make the deal of your lifetime, or to ask someone special to be yours forever - Italiano’s is the perfect place.
Lynn Beckwith
Locally owned, reasonably priced, and consistent quality! We always enjoy both takeout and dining in at Italiano’s.
Jen Welcome Schmude
Their service is quick and efficient and prices are affordable for an entire family. It’s nice to eat at a restaurant with an actual tablecloth once in a while with kids! Their catering is also top-notch.
Laura Eaves
The quality of the food is top-notch and the ample quantities of food provided is perfect for feeding large groups of people as such on a high school campus. It is a very cost-effective option for catering as well.
Jennifer Tatom
Italiano’s is a fantastic place to take the family for tasty and affordable Italian food. Be sure to order extra garlic knots for me.
Jeremy Poland
The prices are reasonable and it tastes pretty authentic to me although I’ve never been to Italy. It’s better than most chain Italian restaurants.
LaTerica Richard
Friday, October 18th
10am Raffle, Boutique, Bid Board 11:30am Seated Lunch and Program
Pumpkin Cuties
• Cutie Mandarin Oranges
• Celery Sticks
Peel the cutie mandarin oranges and cut celery sticks into 1-inch long sticks.
Cut each slice of celery into thirds or fourths and insert celery sticks into the center of the peeled oranges.
Oreo Spiders
• Oreos
• Candied Eyes
• Chocolate Chips
• Pretzel Logs
Break pretzel rods in half and stuff them into the Oreo cookies to form the spider legs. Melt the chocolate chips until smooth.
Use a toothpick to place the melted chocolate onto the Oreos where the eyes will go.
Immediately place the eye candies onto the melted chocolate. Place the Oreos in the fridge until the chocolate hardens.
cuterie SPOOK-
A SPOOKY SPIN ON THE CLASSIC CHARCUTERIE
ARTICLE BY SAVANNA JAGGEARS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY JAGGEARS
Spook-Cuterie is a cutie Halloween snack for pre- or post-trick-or-treating. This spooky spin on the classic charcuterie board will excite the kids and provide a few nutritious nibbles before they fill up on too much candy. Whether you bring this to the school party or set it up while everyone gets in their costumes, fun MUMMY-ries will be made.
Nutter Butter Ghosts
• Nutter Butter Cookies
• White Melting Chocolate
• Mini Chocolate Chips
Instructions:
1. Gather together the items.
2 .Arrange and style according to your party aesthetic.
3. Add extra items, such as crackers, chips and cheeses.
Melt the white chocolate in the microwave in 15-second increments. Stir between increments until the chocolate is fully melted.
Dip the top of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place the coated cookie on wax paper to dry.
Press the mini chocolate chip to make the eyes and mouth before the chocolate dries.
Blackberry Bats
• Bat Shaped Cookie Cutter
• Blackberries
• Candied Eyes
Place the cookie cutter on the charcuterie board and fill with blackberries. Place candied eyes to make the eyes of the bat.
4. Fan out additional fruits and veggies.
5. Celebrate and make the days leading up to October 31st memorable!
SER VI NG UP S OUP
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
Fall’s most notable comfort meal
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 4TH
Pumpkins After Dark 2024
Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventure - 23101 Highway 242, New Caney, TX 77357 | 8:00 PM
Explore the magical pathway of lit pumpkin sculptures and displays, with music, sounds, and special effects. With classic Halloween characters, dinosaurs and dragons, and movie and pop culture icons. This family-friendly event has something for everyone. Make Pumpkins After Dark your new annual tradition! houston.pumpkinsafterdark.com/tickets/
OCTOBER 5TH
The Elite Cup Pickleball Tournament
The Clubs of Kingwood - 1700 Lake Kingwood Trl, Kingwood, TX 77339 | 7:30 AM
Are you ready for some fun and friendly competition? Join us for the Elite Cup Pickleball Tournament hosted by Elite Hospital. This is more than just a game – it's a chance to make a difference! With all proceeds going to HAAM Social Services, your participation will help support our local community in a meaningful way.
OCTOBER 17TH
Ladies Night Out
Health in Progress - 23802 Hwy 59 N, Kingwood, TX 77339 | 5:30 PM
This event is open to the public. We are excited to see you and will be focusing on breast cancer awareness, Biote supplements, and weight loss. Planned activities include: • truSculpt ID stations for the neck and face • Dermaplaning station • B12 shots station • Saliva test station for circulation • Composition assessment weighing special scale • Potential participation by Dr. Baker for chiropractic adjustments
OCTOBER 18TH
The 15th Annual In The Pink Northeast Luncheon
Humble Civic Center - 8233 Will Clayton Pkwy, Humble, TX 77338 | 10:00 AM
Grab your friends, family, and best pink outfits, and get ready for the Pinkest Event! Join us on National Mammogram Day for a day of shopping, raffles, a bid board, champagne, and more exciting ways to support Project Mammogram as we raise funds to improve access to breast health services and mammograms for women and men in Northeast Houston!
OCTOBER 19TH
EMCID's Tricks & Treats Fall Fair 2024
Grand Parkway/99 at Valley Ranch Bend - 21310 Valley Ranch Bend Dr, Porter, TX 77365 | 10:00 AM
This year's event will be held inside tents featuring a Fall Market full of local vendors and the widely known EMCID Haunt, a maze that may not be for the faint of heart. There will be food trucks, a petting zoo, a chance to paint a donkey, paint a pumpkin, and live music performed by local US Military Veteran Bands.
OCTOBER 26TH
Montgomery County Market Days
Bull Salas Park Fairgrounds - 21675 McClesky Rd, New Caney, TX 77357 | 10:00 AM
Get Ready for a Spook-tacular weekend! Mark your calendars for October 26TH-27TH. This Halloween Harvest Market will be packed with fun, festive activities, and we’re inviting vendors to join the excitement. Don’t miss out on this weekend of shopping, treats, and Halloween fun! Saturday - 10AM-5PM and Sunday 10AM-4PM
