FOOD + BEVERAGE “MICHELIN AWARDS”
LIFE + CULTURE
LEISURE- “PEOPLE AND PLACES WE LOVE IN THE WOODLANDS” FEBRUARY
“Falling in Love”
5 - 7 BEDROOMS
8 FULL & 3 HALF BATHS
12,912 SQFT
262,667 SQFT LOT
7918 RED BAY CIRCLE
MAGNOLIA, TEXAS, 77354
Completely remodeled home on 3.3 unrestricted acres in Magnolia! Horses welcome! Close to The Woodlands and all amenities, this stunning home features high end luxury vinyl plank wood-look flooring, designer light fixtures, smooth walls, fresh interior paint, soft close cabinets and drawers, new roof, all new windows, and so much more! The remodeled kitchen with waterfall quartz island, huge walk-in pantry, and custom vent hood over the gas range opens to the light and bright breakfast room and den with decorative quartz wall and fireplace. The study off the breakfast area has a built-in Murphy bed for guests. 2 bedrooms share a bathroom down + Owner's retreat down has a gorgeous remodeled bath and walk-in closet; 2 bedrooms, bathroom and game room & large balcony upstairs. 3 car attached garage + insulated and a/c controlled gym (could be 2nd garage) & a separate workshop with room for a lift & can fit 8-10 cars! Horse arena and stalls too! Well and septic-no MUD tax or HOA!
Seder
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September 6 & 7,
The Lone Star Convention & Expo Center, 9055 Airport Rd., Conroe
Berry Center of Northwest Houston Cypress, TX 77433
September 6 & 7, 2025 The Lone Star Convention & Expo Center, Conroe, TX 77303
“Where there is Love there is Life”
- Mahatma Gandhi
Welcome to our February "Love Local" issue! Love is indeed in the air at The Woodlands City Lifestyle, and we are going to share with you some of our local favorites.
First of all, we curated two stories of entrepreneurship in our community. A couple of guys laying the foundation for a virtual world with their new company SpatialGen, whose mission is to help their customers create and share spatial experiences effortlessly.
And next up - our talented lady business owners Astrid Haas of The Glittered Pine Cone and Mika Black, owner of Evolve Candle. Both create beautiful products as you will see in the photos of Astrid's sparkling spirit wear and Mika's serene candles.
We feature local award winning restaurant owners from the area including Old Town Spring’s Corkscrew BBQ, who received a coveted Michelin star! Also, two Spring restaurants received the Bib Gourmand designation. What a privilege to have such celebrity status in our community of foodies!
Speaking of food, the infamous "Supper Club" is making a comeback with a unique twist. Read about Chef Jorden Dolan, who started The Woodlands Supper Club, connecting guests with seasonal food! Such a cool concept.
Creativity abounds in our hometown. The Woodlands Arts Council (TWAC) recently unveiled 4 new, easily accessible art benches with two in Northshore Park, one at Town Green Park, and another at Rob Fleming Park-Pond. The John Cooper School held its 20th Annual Signature Author Series event with New York Times Best Selling Novelist Lisa Jewell, and we also feature local talented musician Ryder Grimes.
Our Travel story features Florence, Italy and a special place that our travel writer explored and has special influences of where you may want to visit, explore and stay.
Cozy up with your favorite Valentine and enjoy our "Love Local" issue.
Love one another!
JO HAMMON, MANAGING EDITOR
PUBLISHER
Tonya Butler | tonya.butler@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Jo Hammon | jo.hammon@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Alison Bridges | alison.bridges@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Travis Hager, Laura L. Green, Dawn Allen, Jean Ciampi, Heather Davis, Amy Barnett, Dion Bart, Denman Moody, Michelle Glicksman
Corporate Team
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 Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
February 2025 Visit our Instagram
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Expertise Matters When You Need
BACK AND NECK CARE
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Where Luxury Living Begins
The Woodlands’ Premier Selling Partner
Make your next move with confidence. The Haley Garcia Group combines personalized service with unmatched expertise to ensure your luxury property stands out in The Woodlands’ competitive market. Whether you're opening a new chapter or closing the last, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Contact Haley today to get started! Haley Garcia (936) 238-7122 | haley@haleygarcia.com
city scene
1: On Sunday, October 20, 2024, Child Advocates of Montgomery County hosted their third annual Cornament. 2: 3rd Place: The Corn Stars from EnerCorp 3: 1st Place: Woodforest National Bank sponsored team 4: Event Co-Chairs Jeanne Toth and Carol Knott Tefft 5: 2nd Place: Jeremi and Chance on America’s ER sponsored team 6: Tournament participants celebrate 7: (L to R) Ann Marie Ronsman, Jason Howze, Travis Guinn Photography Provided by Child Advocates of Montgomery County
Excellence in Dentistry
Dr. Leah has taken over 140 hours of continuing education with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) and is working on her Fellowship distinction. Dr. Leah Zils is set to take over Dr. Cagle’s dental practice, dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of exceptional dental care established by her predecessor. Dr. Zils attended the University of Arkansas on a soccer scholarship before finishing her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at Texas A&M University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She then graduated from UT School of Dentistry in Houston and hit the ground running with her dental career.
She has taken over 140 hours of continuing education with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) and is working on her Fellowship distinction. She is certified in laser dentistry as well as oral sedation. She is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Zils looks forward to welcoming new clients into the practice, where she can apply her extensive education and experience to provide top-notch dental care.
Welcoming New Patients.
Rose Wade Interior Design
Rose Wade Interior Design is a thoughtful, bespoke full-service interior design studio that is now creating luxurious comfort for clients in The Woodlands. At Rose Wade, interior design is more than just a service - it's an experience and journey where your dream home awaits at the end. They work handin-hand with their clients to plan and create their personal sanctuary to truly bring them joy and comfort in their homes. rosewadeid.com
Grogan's Mill Village Center Revitalization Project is Well Underway
Construction on the new state-ofthe-art library and community center in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center is well underway. This project will breathe new life into the community's oldest village center and reestablish it as a treasured community hub. The inside of the new community center and library space has been completely gutted and they have begun constructing the new layout. The new village center is expected to be completed by summer 2025.
Photography: Alison Bridges
Ryder Grimes
A LITTLE OLD-SCHOOL, A LITTLE MODERN
ARTICLE BY AMY BARNETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MITCH GOUDY, DARIUS REED, MITCH WALLIS, BAILEY LAMAR
Hailing from Poetry, Texas, Ryder Grimes is a multi-award-winning singer whose musical style blends the soul and authenticity of classic country with a modern twist. Raised on a mix of ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s country music, Grimes has honed a sound that reflects both the legends who inspired him and his own unique voice.
“I aim to use the talent God gave me to be creative and build something that is uniquely ‘me,’” Grimes explained. “I love and respect all country music and do believe that you have to grow with the times but don’t have to change what you’re doing. For me, I love old school, traditional country music, but I want to give it that slight edge that’s modern country.”
Grimes’ twist on traditional country is resonating with music lovers as he has already seen success on the Texas country music charts with multiple No. 1 songs. He also earned the Emerging Artist of the Year award at the 2023 Texas Country Music Awards and Songwriter of the Year award in 2024 for his chart-topping single, “In My Boots.”
“This was a special award to win. The reason I write songs is to write something that hits deeper than just the ears for people,” Grimes shared. “When people hear my songs, I want them to feel a soul connection or a relation, kind of the ‘I get that’ feeling. I love writing songs that paint pictures, and to win this award inspires me to keep doing that for years to come!”
Grimes has been hard at work on new music, including an upcoming single, “Wrong Went
Wrong,” set for release in February. Cowritten with Gunnar Latham, the song is a heart-wrenching, classic country ballad. “It sounds like it was written in 1984, and I am extremely proud of it,” Grimes said.
The song came out of a creative session that took an unexpected turn—what started as an effort to write an upbeat tune quickly transformed into a tear-jerker, the kind of song that pays homage to the greats who shaped his musical upbringing.
Looking ahead, Grimes is excited about all 2025 holds. Not only is he releasing new music, but he has a hefty tour schedule, too, which includes shows in new towns and at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo where he will be playing the Junction Stage on March 23 at 7 pm.
“This is a show I am really stoked about,” said Grimes. “I can’t wait to get back to Houston and perform for my H-Town family!”
While traveling across Texas and the U.S., Grimes will also be tackling a new goal he set for himself – to write at least 100 songs this year.
“It’s going to be a challenge, but I’m ready for it,” he said.
But what he’s most proud of is a goal he has already achieved – finding who he truly is as an artist.
“I feel like I have finally found ‘me.’ I believe that as an artist, that is the single hardest thing to achieve,” Grimes added.
To learn more about Ryder Grimes and to stay up to date on his music and tour schedule, follow him on social media and visit rydergrimes.com.
“I aim to use the talent God gave me to be creative and build something that is uniquely ‘me.’”
laying a foundation for a virtual world
Own Woodlands Creators
We are living at what may well be an interesting point in history. At a quarter of the way through the 21st century we are truly starting to see what many Sci-Fi films had predicted. More and more people are spending time in the virtual or digital world versus the “physical world”. Many know it as “virtual reality” (VR) and “augmented reality” (AR). With headsets like Apple’s Vision Pro or Meta’s Quest anyone can easily spend time in another part of the world or, in some cases, another world altogether. Want fully immersive front row seats at this month’s Superbowl? You can. Wanna watch a soccer match in the UAE? You can do that too. Your friends can join you as well!
Behind the scenes though this takes a ton of work. For starters, that video feed has to be securely hosted somewhere and it needs to be compatible across all types of devices. This is where local entrepreneurs Zach Handshoe, originally from Round Rock, and Michael Butterfield, originally from Minnesota, come into play and are quite literally (and metaphorically) laying foundations for this new unchartered territory.
ENTER SPATIALGEN
Company co-founders Zach and Michael first met a few years ago as colleagues at ExxonMobile when Zach joined Michael’s team in the IT/Simulation department.
Fast forward to 2023 and Apple’s announcement of the long awaited Vision Pro. Knowing this was something Handshoe wanted to get in
ARTICLE BY TRAVIS HAGER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PRESLEY DANIEL
on, he naturally asked his colleague and friend to join in that endeavor. That was July. By October Michael had realized that “the only way this works is to 100% fully commit”. Which is precisely what they did. That decision is already paying dividends. In only a year’s time the start up has already claimed a 70% world-wide market share in the industry.
According to Zach, “a sense of presence and innovation is the driving motivation”. The next step is helping promoters and content creators build a bigger market.
When asked why they chose to remain in The Woodlands versus somewhere more obvious like Austin or San Francisco, it was Michael who explained that it’s the quality of life and cost of living here, that they simply can’t be beat. As a new homeowner he can’t imagine going anywhere else.
If you’d like to get a more in-depth view of the world they are creating, book a demonstration, or get in touch with this inspiring team, they may be reached at spatialgen.com.
Our
A MICHELIN RESTAURANT is not what you think
LOCAL WINNERS BLUR CULINARY BOUNDARIES AND ENHANCE THE DEFINITION OF A FINE MEAL
ARTICLE BY LAURA L. GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Though other big name culinary awards are impactful, nothing hits quite like seeing a Michelin Star hanging at the door to a restaurant. The vaunted Michelin Guide has been around for well over a century and its recommendations are read by discerning food enthusiasts around the globe. The pressures of maintaining the award (a restaurant can receive one, two or three-star status) are the stuff of many an anecdote. (It is said that Gordon Ramsey cried when he lost two stars.)
Last November, Michelin held a red-carpet ceremony in Houston to announce its first-ever Texas restaurant guide. The entire state had been abuzz for months leading up to the festivities. The Woodlands area was well-represented among the night’s winners: Receiving a Bib Gourmand designation were Belly of the Beast and Rosemeyer BarB-Q, both located in Spring; Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue of Tomball; and Killen’s Barbecue (though technically the original Killen’s in Pearland was sited, The Woodlands location provides the same outstanding menu). According to Michelin’s website, the “Bib” award is bestowed upon restaurants that provide exceptional food for a great value. (A bit of trivia: “Bib” is short for Bibendum--aka the Michelin Man--and is the true name of the multinational French tire company’s mascot that appears on its logo.) In the pièce de résistance of the evening, Old Town Spring’s Corkscrew BBQ received a coveted star along with three Austin barbecue joints--the first restaurants ever to earn a star for barbecue.
That down-to-earth Texas ‘cue could receive such an accolade is at odds with the stereotypical image of a Michelin restaurant--starched white tablecloths, Byzantine place settings, a crew of waitstaff navigating guests through a multi-course meal. To be sure, those restaurants were among the night’s winners. But it seems that Michelin’s bevy of inspectors did a pretty thorough job of fanning out across the state’s biggest urban areas and beyond, seeking out eateries that did not necessarily fit the usual categories and preconceived notions of what constitutes a fine meal.
The Michelin inspectors are a mysterious lot. They don’t speak to the press and are not identified on the company’s website. Scott Moore, Jr. of Tejas prides himself on greeting customers and remembering faces, but he has no idea who the secret tasters were. “Some of our staff are pretty intuitive, but they [the inspectors] must have disguised their motives pretty well. On their website, they called out specific menu items. They clearly came through here, took notes, paid attention to the menu. They did a nice job of describing the essence of the place.”
Jordan Rosemeyer and Ben Maxwell of Rosemeyer BarB-Q are also stumped about who among their customers may have been an inspector. A potential visit from Michelin was not on their radar. “I like nice food but had never been to a Michelin restaurant,” said Rosemeyer. Friends since their days at Klein Oak High School, he and Maxwell opened Rosemeyer in 2018. A line of hungry fans begins to assemble most mornings before the window opens on their humble trailer, located adjacent to a gas station near the Grand Parkway. Along with the Texas
trinity of smoked brisket, sausage and ribs, the two are known for experimenting with new dishes outside of the barbecue norm.
The first contact any of the winning restaurants received from Michelin was a nondescript email that could easily have been passed over as junk. “I thought, ‘No way. Whatever. Got to be a scam,’” said Rosemeyer. He passed the email along to Maxwell, as well as to a friend who pointed out that the email linked back to the Michelin North America website and was in fact legit.
Chef Thomas Bille and his wife Elizabeth Bille, owners of Belly of the Beast, had the same reaction. “At first, we were like, ‘Is this spam?’ We didn’t want to open it,” he recalls. Having previously staged in Michelin restaurants in Los Angeles, Bille says he learned techniques from great chefs who helped him shape his repertoire. Now at BOTB, he’s creating seasonal menus that defy any set culinary categories. “I wanted to make good food based on what works together, no matter where it originally came from,” said Bille.
CONTINUED >
This page, left: Jordan Rosemeyer (left) and Ben Maxwell of Rosemeyer Bar-B-Q in Spring have been friends since their days at Klein Oak High School and Sam Houston State. | Middle: Scott Moore of Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue, pictured with his wife and coowner Michelle: “I’m glad for Texas for starters, and for my cuisine in particular.” | Right: BOTB’s Thomas and Elizabeth Bille pose with Bibendum, aka the Michelin Man. | Next page: Will and Nichole Buckman of Corkscrew in Old Town Spring
The Michelin email asked for photos and basic restaurant information. Moore figured his restaurant was simply being added to a big list of area restaurants. Soon, however, a second email appeared in his inbox. This time, it was an invitation to the ceremony, and it provided no clues as to whether an award might be forthcoming.
Will Buckman of Corkscrew says when the big night arrived, it was a sensory overload, like being at the Oscars. He and his wife Nichole took a seat among the other great names of Texas barbecue—friends Scott Moore and his wife Michelle were seated next to them; nearby were Aaron Franklin, Leonard Botello of Truth, and many others.
When the Bib Gourmand winners were brought to the stage and Corkscrew was not among them, he and Nichole thought there had been a glitch—they must have been left off the list by accident. When the starred restaurants were called to the stage, Corkscrew was not among those either. Buckman says Nichole started to break down. Their nerves were frazzled. In reality, Michelin had saved the most newsworthy moment for last, calling Corkscrew to the stage--along with Austin’s Interstellar Barbecue, La Barbecue and Leroy and Lewis--to receive the guide’s first-ever stars for an American style of barbecue.
Buckman says the place went crazy. He believes the evening was an affirmation of the elevated level at which today’s Texas barbecue is crafted. “As a cuisine, it’s just as complicated and intricate as any other
“If you can have specific kinds of chefs—a classically trained French [chef] for example—barbecue is no different than that. We can get our hands dirty and still have a Michelin Star.”
— Will Buckman, Corkscrew BBQ
cuisine. If you can have specific kinds of chefs--a classically trained French [chef] for example--barbecue is no different than that. We can get our hands dirty and still have a Michelin Star.”
Buckman says he and Nichole have hung their star on the wall at Corkscrew with great pride. Though some restaurants might bend to what they perceive will help them to keep it there, Buckman says they won’t change a thing. That sentiment is echoed by Chef Bille. “We’re ourselves. We’re there for the community. We want everybody from every walk of life to enjoy our restaurant."
“WE’RE OURSELVES. WE’RE THERE FOR THE COMMUNITY. WE WANT EVERYBODY FROM EVERY WALK OF LIFE TO ENJOY OUR RESTAURANT.”
— CHEF THOMAS BILLE, BELLY OF THE BEAST
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Legendary Supper Club with a Twist
The Woodlands Supper Club Launches with a Unique Spin
Supper clubs have a storied and diverse history in the United States, ranging from prohibition-era roadhouses to private, exclusive clubs providing exceptional food and entertainment. Patrons customarily spend an extended evening enjoying cocktails and multi-course meals followed by entertainment. Chef Jorden Dolan began The Woodlands Supper Club as a fresh concept connecting guests with seasonal food at rotating locations, affording a unique opportunity to socialize with new friends and gain insight into the origin of remarkable cuisine.
As executive chef and founder of catering service Savory Events, Chef Jorden shops for regional organic produce, meats, and seafood, supporting local businesses and ensuring she has the highest quality ingredients. Originally from Santa Cruz, California's Covid shutdowns inspired Jorden to start “travel catering,” offering
services as a private chef out of state. Friends asked her to cater small parties, and business quickly grew to include destination weddings, galas, and corporate events. In 2022, Jorden moved to The Woodlands with her husband and daughter and became an enthusiastic new Texan.
Chef Jorden started The Woodlands Supper Club to build a community of people who appreciate quality, sustainably-sourced food. She offers seasonal menus that showcase her style – and every menu she writes is a custom menu.
When choosing sites for monthly supper club evenings, Jorden prefers locations where the kitchen opens to the dining area, allowing her to engage with diners and field questions. Guests are welcome to hang out in the kitchen and chat. Jorden likes to explain what’s being served, how it’s prepared, and where ingredients originated. As she demonstrates the benefits
page: Chef Jorden Dolan | Next page, top left: A memorable supper club evening located at The Keyes Ingredients.
Top right: The magical menu from October’s premiere event. | Middle left: Dining alfresco, with style. | Middle right: Organic produce in abundance. | Bottom left: Jorden places the finishing touches.
Bottom right: Chef Jorden truly enjoys sharing her love of food.
“
I like to find likeminded individuals who care about where their food comes from.”
of whole foods, the pleasure of cooking for oneself, and sourcing organic, local ingredients, Jorden hopes to encourage patronage of local farms and vendors.
The premiere of The Woodlands Supper Club took place this past October on three acres of picturesque, shaded land, and featured a cocktail hour, live music, exquisite flowers, live painting, exceptional table settings, and family-style food service.
Jorden’s second supper club event was a more traditional affair: a group of 14, with a seated, six-course meal including French wine pairings with each course. Her third supper was a Winter Harvest party at Premiere Events in Conroe. It proved to be a lively venue for an evening of tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, a grazing and dessert table, signature cocktails, and a mocktail display courtesy of The Mocksy Bar. Upcoming suppers will return to a small group format, with seated, multi-course dinners in uncommon locations.
Chef Jorden plans to continue hosting the supper club in a different location every month. She’s exploring spots around The Woodlands and Montgomery to bring the supper club experience to new audiences. She revels in the challenge of cooking in unique locations and strives to build a foodie, culinary community group.
Jorden’s vision for a typical monthly supper club evening is an intimate sit-down dinner, with seasonal, locally-sourced organic food served family style. All menu items are fresh and handmade without processed ingredients. Meals feature six courses, allowing guests to enjoy one another’s company over an extended evening.
Chef Jorden aims to share not only her delightful food, but an understanding of the beauty of whole foods, prepared to please the senses and nourish the body. Working in conjunction with local nonprofit The Keyes Ingredients, Jorden holds cooking classes for high school students as well as The Texas Autism Academy to give youth a hands-on cooking experience and ownership of their health in the process. Jorden endeavors to teach all ages how to make wise ingredient choices and prepare food that nourishes the body.
Chef Jorden envisions supper club evenings as an opportunity for people to relax and make friends and believes it’s as much about socialization as the pleasure of the meal. We anticipate watching Jorden make her mark on The Woodlands’ food culture! To check out Jorden’s next curated supper club experience, follow her on Instagram at @thewoodlandssupperclub.
MORE THAN A PRETTY SEAT
ARTICLE BY JEAN CIAMPI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOAN TILTON PHOTOGRAPHY
NEW BENCHES CONNECT COMMUNITY THROUGH ART, LOVE AND LEGACY.
With more than 220-miles of pathways to walk, run, and cycle along, The Woodlands Township has now also installed four new unique Art Benches to stop, rest and simply enjoy the beautiful nature that is iconic to our community. The Woodlands Arts Council (TWAC) unveiled the new, easily accessible benches this past December with two in Northshore Park, one at Town Green Park, and another at Rob Fleming Park-Pond.
“The four new benches are in places people can go to enjoy and be inspired. Each unique, creative bench is a special collaboration between the underwriter’s desire and the artist’s vision,” said Jenny Carattini-Wright, Executive Director and CEO of TWAC. “Collaboration makes community, and this is an opportunity to build community and legacy. A lot of our benches are given in memory of a loved one, making them especially touching. They are a special part of The Woodlands.”
TWAC announces the opportunity to underwrite a new bench every two years. Artists from across the country submit proposals and the funds raised through the underwriting, which are between $15,000 to $25,000 per bench dependent on location, benefit TWAC’s outreach programs.
“Brow Ridge,” underwritten by Amy Cope-Gibbs and Jon Gibbs and located in Rob Fleming Park-Pond, is designed by artist Cricket Forge to offer a serene retreat near the water, a calming atmosphere to allow
visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in all the languages nature speaks. Made from welded steel, it captures the Gibbs’ vision of “evoking the experience of sitting on an old stump or enjoying a picnic atop a smooth boulder found on a hike.”
“Critter Creature” celebrates the 15th anniversary of the Young Learners Academy’s “Giving Back” campaign which focuses on supporting the community that has stood by them over the years. The Woodlands Young Learners Academy underwrote the colorful and vibrant bench at Northshore Park to spark curiosity and creativity in children. “’Critter Creature’ is a friend in the park, a character in a story being written in the imagination of young and old park-goers, and a canvas for the creative curiosity of the children making their way to the nearby playground and water’s edge,” explains artist Jake Heffington who created the bench along with artists Emily Fielder and Liz Braaksma.
Artist Jonathon Chandler’s “Flight to the Sun” was underwritten by Tawna Kingsley as a heartfelt tribute to Jon D. Kingsley, Sr. to honor the life of “a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, an engineer, a pilot and boat captain who inspired many.” Located in Northshore park, surrounded by trees and overlooking the water, the artist fulfilled the Kingsley family’s vision of a lasting tribute to legacy and inspiration with the larger-than-life work that envisions a jet flying towards heaven. “This would be a place where the kids could be close to him and feel his presence,” shared Tawna Kingsley.
“Windswept Oak,” also created by artist Jonathon Chandler, incorporates his signature use of found and recycled materials. “We have a responsibility to protect the earth, so I use recycled materials whenever possible,” he explained. Underwriters Rob and Cindy Hardin’s vision to share the sense of hope and fulfillment they experienced when they arrived in The Woodlands – dreams that they have realized over the years – is captured in the bench located in Town Green Park. With a full view of the waterway, it embodies the feelings of serenity, connection to nature and a deep sense of community.
Including the four new pieces, there are 32 Art Benches located throughout The Woodlands as part of the Public Art Collection which also includes sculptures, murals and bike racks. A complete list of the Collection, along with pictures and map, is located on the TWAC’s website TheWoodlandsArtsCouncil.org . The site also includes more information about the participating artists and their inspirations.
The Public Art Benches are “one of the pieces that makes The Woodlands different from all other communities, said John Powers with The Woodlands Township as part of the short documentary, “Love & Legacy: The Art Bench Project.” “They are one of the things that makes this one of the greatest communities in the country.”
Critter Creature Bench
Windswept Oak Bench
Brow Ridge Bench
WHAT MAKES A WRITER?
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY LAURA L. GREEN
Jewell used her keynote address to encourage would-be writers to take the plunge: "You must give yourself permission to start."
BESTSELLING AUTHOR LISA JEWELL ENCOURAGES ASPIRING WRITERS TO TAKE THE PLUNGE AT THE JOHN COOPER SCHOOL’S SIGNATURE AUTHOR SERIES EVENT
The John Cooper School held its 20th Annual Signature Author Series event on December 6, 2024, at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center. The gala attracted a record crowd and featured New York Times bestselling British novelist Lisa Jewell, known for psychological thrillers such as “None of This is True,” which is set to become a Netflix original film.
Each year this highly anticipated literary event attracts attendees from across The Woodlands and Houston, with proceeds benefitting The John Cooper School’s Visual and Performing Arts Program as well as a local literary organization. Past recipients include The Montgomery County Library System, Children's Books on Wheels, and The Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation.
CONTINUED >
Children's author Sharon Caples McDougle (right) shares a light moment with Jewell.
The literature-themed decor included a myriad of books and printed pages hung from the ceilings.
Author Lisa Jewell visits with fans while signing books.
Jewell gave a keynote address during the event, which also included a VIP room, a drawing for prizes, a luncheon, and book sales from Jewell’s extensive collection of titles, along with works by a cadre of visiting authors who comprised the event's Authors' Alley.
Jewell's journey as an author began with a night class in creative writing which stoked her passion for storytelling. In addition to the blockbuster, “None of This is True,” she is known for other popular works such as “Then She Was Gone,” “Invisible Girl,” and “The Family Upstairs.”
In her witty and introspective address to luncheon attendees, Jewell blended advice to aspiring writers with a look back at her own path. "The biggest obstacle that most authors face is overthinking the whole process--it's too difficult, too hard, it's not going to fit into the market. You just have to really, really be pragmatic and down to earth about writing. You won't know if you can write a book until you have written a book."
Jewell identifies herself as a “pantser,” in that she goes where inspiration takes her “by the seat of her pants,” without extensive preplanning. She encourages writers to maintain their creativity, good humor, and determination in the face of rejection. Jewell said she dedicates time daily to respond to fans on social media, and she underscored the importance of maintaining a strong connection with readers. That philosophy was on display during her interactions at the Signature Author event, where she warmly greeted fans and spent the time to answer many questions posed by audience members following her speech.
The John Cooper School Signature Author Series event was held December 6th at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott.
“Waiting for a bright idea to arrive is the quickest possible way to never write at all...Every day, keep it simmering, keep it alive. Write about whatever weird little things land in your head, not what the world tells you to write...Don’t be oversensitive, accept rejection and move on. Or be the permission giver, the good teacher, the person who says the right thing at the right time, and offer encouragement.”
— Lisa Jewell
Guests lined up to have their books signed by bestselling author Lisa Jewell during the 20th annual Signature Author Series event.
Seen here with Head of School Dr. Stephen Popp (left), Adele Cheng was a "Visiting Author" at the event and is also a current John Cooper student.
Guests stop for a photo outside of Authors' Alley.
TWO TALENTED TRAILBLAZERS!
Crafting Warmth and School Spirit, One Piece at a Time
The Woodlands is full of intriguing people with captivating stories - you simply have to pause and listen. Once you strike up a conversation, hearing their stories turns into a labyrinth of human connection. Luckily, we had the honor of meeting two talented ladies who found an entrepreneurial niche and ran with it. Mika Black, the owner of Evolve Candle Company, and Astrid Haas, the founder of The Glittered Pinecone, saw space for two niche markets within The Woodlands and decided to create products of their own.
Mika Black, the founder of Evolve Candle Company, is our first featured entrepreneur. During the unpredictable year of 2020, Mika’s time with her family cultivated her deep-rooted passion of candle-making when she started making candles as aromatherapy for her husband who had been the first to contract COVID. As she learned more about what toxins were inside the store-bought candles, she realized that she wanted to create safer, cleaner options for her family. Mika’s candles are crafted
ARTICLE BY HEATHER DAVIS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Part of the Affirmation Collection
from natural, toxin-free ingredients and infused with essential oils, offering a safer, worry-free alternative for any home. Her creativity radiates through every candle she makes.
Each of her candles are specifically crafted to inspire what they are named after. Her favorite candle, Love, intends to inspire the aroma of love with scents such as rose, lavender, and other smells that then seeing the joy that it imparts on other people when they receive it.” Finding someone passionate about their job like Mika truly is a breath of fresh air.
will certainly liven up any space! With these scents, she adds different natural items such as quartz stones and flowers. Her wax melts are also crafted with flowers in them, so when the wax melts you’re left with a beautiful flower.
Keep an eye out for Mika’s spring collection which is called Affirmation Collection that encompasses a vibrant, citrusy scent that is perfect for spring as it’s a time of growth and renewal!
I also had the pleasure of meeting Astrid Haas, owner of The Glittered Pinecone. Having moved from Munich, Germany in 2013, Astrid noticed a gap within the school system’s clothing for women.
When asked what her favorite part of growing her business is, Mika said that it was “the idea of me being intentional behind creating something and While glittery and sparkly accessories have found themselves trending, Astrid noticed that the school spirit items needed that same excitement, so she created her business around each institution’s unique identity.
Her most popular items are vibrant, beaded straps for clear bags and customizable shirts and banners amongst many other adorable creations! Because of the collective love for exciting and glittery items, Astrid’s business skyrocketed throughout the PTOs in The Woodlands.
A wax melt with flowers
Her love for The Woodlands continued to shine through her business as she proceeded to give back to the community through donations. By purchasing an item that features the Conroe Independent School District logo, she donates to the respective PTO which continues to give students resources that further their education, therefore furthering her impact within the community.
As for how she has slowly expanded her business, Astrid simply loves the power of word-of-mouth. “I enjoy one-on-one conversations to get to know the person better.” If you ever have the chance, I would highly suggest meeting up with Astrid because her passion for her business and supporting The Woodlands’ schools exemplifies itself through her excitement when talking about the various projects. With her work prominently featured throughout The Woodlands, Astrid is making a lasting impact on the community.
If you’d like to check out either of these exceptional entrepreneurs, consider browsing their websites at evolvecandle.com and theglitteredpinecone.com. If you have the chance, strike up a conversation with them and experience the joy of connecting with two of The Woodlands’ inspiring and talented entrepreneurs!
Mika Black - founder of Evolve Candle Company
Astrid Haas - owner of The Glittered Pinecone
Adorable Bling!
This remarkable group of women unites their passion and influence as leaders of our major fundraising events, driving change, raising vital funds, and inspiring a healthier future for all.
“I support the American Heart Association because heart disease has personally affected my family, and I am
“I support the American Heart Association because I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of
“I support the American Heart Association because I am passionate about philanthropy, creating a meaningful impact on the health of my community, and uniting women to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease.”
“I support the American Heart Association because I lost my mother to sudden cardiac arrest, and I believe the funds raised through the AHA will provide every mother with a stronger chance to fight and thrive.”
Meredith Boudousquié Founder | Creative Director
“A Chain of Miracles”
How Quick Action and Community Saved a Life
ARTICLE BY DION BART
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Rick Riney arrived early at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, eager to rehearse with the choir for a special Mass. Outside, a line of worshippers stretched into the parking lot, waiting to venerate the relic of St. Jude the Apostle. Inside, the service began, the air heavy with devotion.
As Rick sang with the choir, he suddenly collapsed. A collective gasp swept through the congregation. Breaking the silence, a woman’s urgent voice called out: “Is anyone a doctor or knows CPR?”
A man immediately stepped forward, beginning chest compressions. The priest paused the Mass, and the congregation instinctively began reciting Hail Marys in unison. Rick's wife, Barbara, sat frozen in shock just feet away. Trembling, she managed to call their daughter, Carrie, who chairs the American Heart Association’s Montgomery County Heart Ball.
Her son-in-law, Scott Greenberg, a cardiac electrophysiologist, answered the call. “I’m on my way,” he assured her, rushing to the church. Dr. Greenberg arrived swiftly, assisting with care until paramedics took over. Emergency responders delivered two life-saving shocks with an AED, reviving Rick’s heart. Miraculously, he survived and was transported to St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital, where Dr. Chacko Alexander, a cardiologist, awaited him. Thanks to quick intervention and effective CPR, Rick avoided brain damage—a rare outcome for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Carrie and Dr. Greenberg expressed deep gratitude. “It’s a miracle,” Carrie said. “The quick actions of everyone involved saved my dad. It’s a powerful reminder of why we support the American Heart Association’s mission to educate and equip communities to act in emergencies.”
“It’s a powerful reminder of why we support the American Heart Association’s mission to educate and equip communities to act in emergencies.”
Experiencing Magical Florence and IL Borro, Italy
ARTICLE
AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DENMAN MOODY
FALLING IN LOVE
Michelangelo’s David
If you have not visited Florence, it should be an exciting goal for your future. Two full days can be enjoyed just touring Duomo Cathedral, Basilica of Santa Croce and Uffizi Gallery—and, of course, not far away, Michelangelo’s 17 foot tall “David”, completed in 1504!
The works in the Uffizi are spellbinding including original statues and paintings, many half a millennium or more in age, by world-renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. There is a great hallway with 30 rooms or so displaying amazing, striking originals. Lining both sides of the hallway—which appears to be about two or three football fields in length—top and bottom, are statues and busts going back to the Roman emperors 2,000 years ago. The family responsible for this is the Medici family which, under Giovanni di Bicci dé Medici, started banking, subsequently becoming the largest and most respected bank in Europe in the 15th century. The family’s collection of art, ancient statues, and busts was unimaginable—worth trillions in today’s money. And when Marie Luisa dé Medici died without children in 1776, she left it all to the city of Florence.
While in Florence, you can select one of the fabulous $1,000/night or even $2,000/ night hotels, but I recommend the Bernini Palace, about two blocks from the Duomo at around $500/night. One of the two great dinners and impressive service we experienced was at the main dining room at Bernini Palace. The other was at Da Giacomo Al Salviatano on the dining room terrace.
After leaving Florence, about an hour and twenty minutes away is IL Borro—the massive, magnificent family-owned estate and resort of the Ferragamo family tucked away in the Tuscan Hills.
There are many choices of where to stay at IL Borro. If you are staying within a 5 or 10 minute vicinity of the restaurants, golf course, tennis courts, spa, etc., then you simply call the front desk and a driver in a cart arrives within five minutes and transports you to your chosen destination. I recommend that you stay at the Dinora, which is about a one minute walk from my favorite restaurant, The Tuscan Bistro, and also the spa and the bar with the infinity pool outside.
CONTINUED >
Basilica at St. Croce
Medieval Village at Il Barro
The works in the Uffizi are spellbinding including original statues and paintings, many half a millennium or more in age, by world-renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli.
All of the rooms are approximately $1,000 a night, but well worth it for a several day stay. We stayed in the Medieval Village. While there, you might run into Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., whose brother runs the clothing business. Salvatore himself chose to preside over the winery and vineyard operation. He travels the world showing off his IL Borro wines at upscale tastings and dinners, one of which we attended in Houston. His sister is in charge of the vegetable garden and the horses. Yes, equestrians will be happy here also, riding through the magnificent estate.
Finally, the cab drive from IL Borro to the Florence airport is among the most beautiful anywhere—skirting Chianti Classico and being surrounded by beautiful hills, massive olive orchards, innumerable vineyards and gorgeous estates the entire one hour plus drive.
For the drive from Florence to IL Borro, I recommend a private driver whose knowledge of Tuscan wines and tour sites makes for wonderful sightseeing along the way. And the extraordinary front desk personnel will arrange for the ride to the airport in Florence.
Uffizi Gallery
View from Terrace Restaurant Da Giacomo Al Salviatino in Florence
Painting has always been a way for me to record memories, like a visual journal. I love to take photos as part of the process, for colors and compositions, feelings and the essence of the moment. Sometimes my photos say enough without their elements being translated into paintings, and I enjoy them for what they are. I don’t usually share my photos but am delighted that 3 have been selected for “The Big Show” at Lawndale Art Center, Houston, it’s the 40th Exhibition which makes it even more special! These photos of reflections of trees in water offer a new persperctive and were taken around The Woodlands area.
THE SCOTTSDALE LURE OF
The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.
Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.
Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale—also known as Old Town Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
(including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail
Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square , one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.
Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor mini-golf destination Puttshack . What else is there to see and do? Plenty.
FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL
PLAY
Like golf? There are more than 200 golf courses in the Scottsdale area. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, there is a course for you. One of the most popular in the area is the TPC Scottsdale as it is the locale of the WM Phoenix Open, the most-attended golf tournament in the world.
For most of the year, Scottsdale boasts warm temperatures, making spending a day splashing in a pool a perfect choice. Many local resorts have pool areas that feature fun extras such as water slides, lazy rivers, and even a cooled sand beach. And even if you’re not an on-site guest, you can often purchase a day pass to be on-site through ResortPass.com.
Of course, there’s also plenty of outdoor recreation in Scottsdale. Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale is a popular mountain to hike (as is the iconic Camelback Mountain, which is located in nearby Phoenix), and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a park and trail system spread over 11 miles. Kids love McCormickStillman Railroad Park , which boasts a small-scale train that circles the park and plenty of play areas.
A destination filled with numerous attractions is A rizona Boardwalk , a center that includes Butterfly Wonderland , OdySea Aquarium , Ripley’s Believe It or Not! , Museum of Illusions , and more.
CULTURE
The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.
However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!
There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.
On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances.
NEARBY
While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.
Sincerely,
FEBRUARY 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
VARIOUS TIMES
Valentine’s Day Swan Boat Rides
Riva Row Boat House 2101 Riva Row The Woodlands, TX 77380
Bring your significant other, best friend, or family for this special Valentine’s Day themed event. Each swan fits up to four people. Please note an adult must be present in each swan. Check the website for available dates and times. rivarowboathouse.com
FEBRUARY 8TH
2025
Montgomery County Food Bank Fighting Hunger, Feeding Hope Gala
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott | 6:00 PM
Presented by Huntsman Corporation, the gala’s proceeds will benefit Montgomery County Food Bank and the many children, families and seniors it serves. Every $1 raised will provide up to 4 meals for those in need in Montgomery County. mcfoodbank.org/gala
FEBRUARY 8TH
Community Tree Planting
The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park | 9:00 AM
The 11th annual community tree planting event will take place Saturday, Feb. 8th at The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park. This is a great opportunity for friends, families, and service groups to give back to our community. Township staff and volunteers will work side by side to help reforest recently cleared areas of pines at Rob Fleming Park. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov
FEBRUARY 15TH
Crush Rush 5K
The Woodlands Waterway | 5:00 PM
Crush Rush 5K will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, along The Woodlands Waterway beginning at 5 p.m. The chip-timed 5K course will wind throughout the Waterway. The race is open to runners of all abilities and recommended for participants ages 10 and older. Runners are encouraged to dress in their best Valentine's Day themed attire! active.com/the-woodlands-tx/running/distance-running-races/ crush-rush-5k-2025
FEBRUARY 22ND
American Heart Association Montgomery & North Harris County Heart Ball
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott | 6:00 PM
For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has made bold moves to save lives and pioneer scientific discoveries. Their annual Heart Ball on February 22nd will unite supporters with a shared purpose to raise the critical funds needed by the AHA to ensure they continue to achieve their mission here in our area. ahahouston.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/20242025MontgomeryNorthHarrisCountyHeartBall/Tickets
FEBRUARY 28TH
The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence Gala 'Dancing in the Moonlight'
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott | 6:00 PM
This event will honor the 2025 Class of Hometown Heroes while raising critical funds for Interfaith of The Woodlands. This year's honorees include: Cathy Brady, Jim Rapp, Jim Wendt, Nick Wolda, Truluck's The Woodlands, and YES to YOUTH. Your support of this event helps provide vital programs and resources to those in need in our community. one.bidpal.net/coegala2025/welcome
Whatever your heart requires, we’ll help keep it beating strong. We personalize treatment plans that utilize cutting-edge techniques, like a heart arrhythmia treatment that minimizes the risk of heart failure and stroke without the need for blood thinners. This is innovative heart care designed around you.
memorialhermann.org/heart
Advancing health. Personalizing care.