Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Newcomer & Relocation Guide • Fall 2017/Winter 2018
COASTAL LIVING AT ITS BEST Distinctive new homes in League City, TX from the high $300s.
Zoned to the highly acclaimed Clear Creek ISD, League City’s Hidden Lakes is a master-planned community offering relaxed coastal living. With plenty of on-site amenities, easy access to the Gulf and an abundance of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, residents can sit back, relax, and enjoy life at its best both indoors and out. Discover our fine collection of 1 and 2-story quick move-in homes and available floorplans ranging from 3,123 to 4,214 sq.ft. MODEL HOME NOW OPEN | 1601 NOBLE WAY COURT, LEAGUE CITY, TX 77573
Your search begins at EmpireHiddenLakes.com Prices, sizes and specifications subject to change without notice. Please see sales representative for more details. E.&O.E.
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PA L M B E A C H R E L O C AT I O N G U I D E
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|
WINTER 2017
Houston Methodist Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates at St. John Welcomes
DR. PEGGY TAYLOR, DR. PATRICIA CHOY AND DR. SHREE VISARIA Drs. Taylor, Choy and Visaria are currently in practice together at Women M.D. in Webster, where they provide pre- and postnatal care, well-woman care, laparoscopic gynecological surgery and more. They will begin seeing patients at Houston Methodist Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates at St. John in December, 2017. To learn more about our women’s services specialists, visit houstonmethodist.org/stjohn/obgyndocs or call 832.783.2330.
SRI GOTTIMUKKALA, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology
MICHAEL MAGLIOLO, MD Gynecology
PEGGY TAYLOR, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology
FRANCOISE VANDAELE, MD Gynecology
PATRICIA CHOY, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology
TRISTI MUIR, MD Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery/Urogynecology
HOUSTON METHODIST OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY ASSOCIATES AT ST. JOHN 2060 Space Park Dr., Suite 410 Nassau Bay, TX 77058
SHREE VISARIA, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology
ELIZABETH CLONINGER, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical Director, Women’s Services
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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contents | features 24 30 44 80
The Lone Star Flight Museum (LSFM) Manageable. Affordable. Lifestyle.
ON THE COVER The Lone Star Flight Museum (LSFM) recently moved from Galveston to its new $38 million state-of-the-art home at Ellington Airport. LSFM is recognized as one of the top aviation museums in the United States. The 130,000 square foot facility houses aircraft displays, interactive exhibits, STEM hands-on educational classrooms and labs, as well as the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame. Photo: Lone Star Flight Museum Kevin McGowan photographer
International Relocation Armand Bayou Nature Center
PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: GHCVB Houston City of Nassau Bay Lennar Homes Space Center Houston Armand Bayou & Gary Seloff Schlitterbahn of Galvestion Lutheran South Academy Houston Astros
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The Lone Star Flight Museum Ashton Woods Homes
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Ruth Burke Eric Pohl Ruth Burke Tuscan Lakes Clear Creek ISD Odyssey Academy Distinct Abilities UH Clear Lake
EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Judy Van Cleve Cecile Ruffino © WEB Media Group LLC 2017 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
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contents | sections WELCOME TO CLEAR LAKE AREA • 10
18
Tourism Commerce Culture Cities
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS • 18
26
Cities Neighborhood Master Planned Communities Maps
FEATURE • 24
Lone Star Flight Musuem
HOME FRONT • 26 Choosing Realtor Home Ownership Houston Cost of Living Mortgage Options
36
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 36 Moving Companies Forwarding Mail Utilities Public Transportation International Relocation
EDUCATION • 48
58
STAAR STEM/STEAM Public Schools Private Schools Higher Education
PLACES OF WORSHIP • 56 Contact Listings
HEALTHCARE • 58 Major Medical Facilities
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY • 66 Aerospace Bio-technology Boating + Tourism Area Chamber of Commerce
LEISURE & RECREATION • 71 Arts and Culture Parks & Attractions Sports & Athletics Calendar of Events
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
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675 Bering Drive Suite 120 Houston Texas 77057 Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com CEO Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans VICE PRESIDENT Michael P. Blalock
VP OF SALES Robert Nusbaum
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jill Roe, Susan Syamken, Judy Van Cleve & Paul Yarbrough
OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Ruffino
Art DIRECTOR Rebecca Cammack
Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce Newcomer and Relocation Guide is published and distributed bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC For advertising information, please call 713-952-1916. Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication. WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this public ation.
300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752 Phone: 512-266-2900 www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD CARL JOINER Joiner Partnership, Inc.-Architects CHAIR ELECT 2016-2017 VICE CHAIR FINANCE BRYAN BOGLE Ventech Information Systems
CARL JOINER
VICE CHAIR ADMINISTRATION BRIAN FREEDMAN The Boeing Company VICE CHAIR MEMBERSHIP BRENDA MILLER-FERGERSON The City of Kemah VICE CHAIR RESEARCH CHARLIE FELTS Opus Bistro & Opus Ocean Grille PAST CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD ROY GREEN South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center BOARD OF DIRECTORS JANETTE ALFORD AdvoCare Independent Distributor SHAWN BAILEY AMOCO Federal Credit Union ANGELA BIVENS The Pet Palace Pet Resort NICOLE BELLOW Smarter HR Solutions PIERR CASTILLO Top Star Marketing GINA CONKLIN Houston Community Management Services, Inc. MARK CONRAD Express Employment Professionals JONATHAN COTTRELL Martha Turner Sotheby's Int'l Realty RITA CUNNINGHAM Clear Lake Regional Medical Center TERI CRAWFORD San Jacinto College BOB DAVEE Mills Shirley, LLP GLENN ELLIS Jacobs Technology SUE FLANNIGAN Berkeley Eye Center RAY HOLLOWAY, JR. CenterPoint Energy J.P. MORRIS Texas Citizen's Bank
2016-2017 Chairman of the Board
1201 E. NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058 P: 281-488-7676 | F: the 281-488-8981 | www.ClearLakeArea.com On behalf of our 1,000 plus members, board of directors and staff, welcome to the Bay Area! You’ve made an outstanding choice to Buy Into Bay Area. Buy Into Bay Area means that we, as residents, are committed to strengthening and enriching the community around us. Shopping locally is a great way to make your tax dollars work for you, but Buying Into Bay Area means so much more. Our tourism and recreation opportunities are endless. We have an award winning school district and we are celebrating the transformation of the University of Houston-Clear Lake into a four year institution. By volunteering and donating resources to local charities and churches we immediately see the changes in peoples’ lives. The Bay Area has so much to offer. When you Buy Into Bay Area you are investing in your home, your community and your family’s future. You’ve joined a community where anything is possible. The home of the aerospace industry is right in your backyard. Our communities’ healthcare industry is growing at amazing proportions to meet the needs of our growing population. The marine opportunities abound and we offer seafood fresh from the boat. The Bay Area is not only home, but a place you can shop, volunteer, learn, enjoy endless tourism attractions, and work. We have it all! This relocation guide is a sampling of what you can expect to find in the Bay Area. We invite you to Buy Into Bay Area and encourage you to fully immerse yourself in our community.
CHRIS REED Chris Reed Consulting WAYNE RUTLEDGE Rutledge Commercial Real Estate KAT SANFORD KAT Sanford Productions KATHERINE WALSH Houston Methodist St. John
2016-2017 Chairman of the Board EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS BOB MITCHELL Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Dr. GREG SMITH Clear Creek Independent School District
Carl Joiner Joiner Architects, Inc
Dr. WILLIAM STAPLES University of Houston-Clear Lake EX-OFFICIO MEMBER DEBORAH ACOSTA CONDER NASA/Johnson Space Center GENERAL COUNSEL DICK GREGG, JR. G r e g g & G r e g g , P. C . STAFF CINDY DEWEASE, IOM, President & CEO SHARI SWEENEY, IOM, Vice President SUNYA FITZ, CFO STEPHANIE TANNER, Communications Specialist PEYTON WALDROP, Director of Membership
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
1201 NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058 P: 281-488-7676 | F: 281-488-8981 | www.ClearLakeArea.com
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CINDY HARRELD-DEWEASE President and CEO
Welcome to the Clear Lake Bay Area Houston region and thank you for choosing the latest edition of the Clear Lake Area Newcomer and Relocation Guide compliments of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. I encourage you to use this publication to help you settle into our great community. Also, allow us here at the Chamber to assist you with questions about the area by visiting our website www.clearlakearea.com or calling the Chamber office at 281-488-7676. This publication provides you with helpful tools as you and your family become familiar with the area. Along with an introduction, you will find useful information regarding the individual cities that make-up the Clear Lake Bay Area Houston region and housing details which includes purchasing a home or rental options available. Other much needed relocation facts are included as well from moving tips to getting a new Texas drivers license. You can also learn about our fine school districts, excellent health care and other products and services available locally. The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c) 6 non-profit business organization promoting economic growth and quality of life for our area. The Chamber of Commerce is not part of a city, county or state government; a political party or faction; a civic or social club; a social service or welfare agency. The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce is an organization through which volunteers, the men and women representing our business community, effectively work together to make our community a better place to work, live, raise a family and visit. On behalf of the Officers, Directors, membership and staff of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce we are happy that you have chosen to relocate to our community and welcome you as one of our newest residents.
President and CEO Cindy Harreld-DeWease Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce
1201 NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058 P: 281-488-7676 | F: 281-488-8981 | www.ClearLakeArea.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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BOB MITCHELL President Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
To our valued Bay Area Houston Newcomers, The Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP) extends a warm welcome to you as you settle into your new home and get acquainted with all that Bay Area Houston has to offer. BAHEP has spent the past 40 years building a heritage of trusted leadership. Texas is pro-busiP.O. Box 58724
ness, and Bay Area Houston is home to a diverse range of businesses including those in the
Houston, TX 77258-8724
aviation / aerospace, maritime, health care, specialty chemical, and education sectors. Together
832-536-3255
with the active participation of our members, BAHEP has become a recognized force on behalf
Fax: 832-536-3258
of job growth and retention and overall economic growth in southeast Texas.
www.bayareahouston.com
There is a building boom in the downstream oil and gas industry along the Houston Ship Channel and beyond, which is creating great jobs now and providing lucrative careers for students who want to pursue jobs in that industry. The commercial space industry is poised to grow regionally, as well, with the new Houston Spaceport and other development that is taking place at Ellington Airport. BAHEP has been partnering with Texas A&M University at Galveston, along with over 30 other municipalities and community organizations, to broaden its work on behalf of a storm surge suppression system for the upper Gulf Coast in order to better protect the region’s residents and businesses. It’s a great time to live and work in Bay Area Houston, and we sincerely appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the region’s progress in a meaningful way. We ask that you consider BAHEP a resource for your business needs and consider joining with others in the community as we work on behalf of all those who call Bay Area Houston home.
Best regards,
Bob Mitchell President
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
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CINDY HAMANN 2017 Chairman Houston Association of REALTORS®
Welcome to Houston! You’ve just landed in one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, incredible cuisine, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation destinations, including Super Bowl LI. As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston metropolitan area, you’re likely to notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.
HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax 713- 961-4869
BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax 281-486-7530
MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760 Fax 936-273-0344
FORT BEND
The Houston real estate market has been one of the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle, whether you plan to rent or buy. The 34,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR) help make the American Dream come true for individuals and families every day. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization and our members understand that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make. Well over a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which extended its reach beyond Houston in 2014 to provide property listings for the entire state of Texas. The site offers dozens of userfriendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more. Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more. On behalf of HAR, it’s my great pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you’ll take advantage of everything our incredible community has to offer.
6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700
Sincerely,
Fax 281-343-9557
Cindy Hamann
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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in this section tourism commerce culture cities
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FO C L ER A T RB EL N AD K ECAORUENAT YN ENW EC WO CM O EMRE RG U GI UDIED E – –F ASLPLR 2 I N0 G 1 7 2/0 1W7 I N T E R 2 0 1 8
WELCOME TO
CLEARreLAKE a A
The Bay Area is often called the “Boating Capital of Texas” based on it having the third largest fleet of recreational boats in the United States and the greatest concentration of boats in Texas. It is also the home of NASA and space exploration.
Seventy-five years ago the Clear Lake area
largest city in the U.S.; the Port of Houston,
region in Texas. Even more impressive, it
was a sleepy coastal plain midway between
one of the largest ports in the U.S.; the
has the third largest fleet of recreational
Houston and Galveston. Its laid-back days
Petro-Chemical Corridor; and the William
boats in the United States.
ended with the development of NASA/JSC
P. Hobby Airport and Ellington Field. Living in a resort area means there is always
which brought new neighborhoods, retail Houston has the most Fortune 500 compa-
something fun to do in the great outdoors
increased tourism to the area.
nies in Texas, according to the magazine’s
from boating, bird watching and nature
2015 ranking. There are 25 Houston-based
hiking, to fine dining and shopping along
While best known for the NASA/Johnson
companies on the annual list and most of
the water’s edge. Arts, cultural and sporting
Space Center, The Clear lake Area offers
the companies have operations in the greater
events are weekend occurrences throughout
a relaxing coastal lifestyle unmatched in
Clear Lake area. Many of the health care
the Clear Lake area and more opportunities
the Houston metropolitan area. The lure
professionals working in the world famous
are on the way. Space Center Houston cele-
of the water, combined with a charming
Texas Medical Center live in the Clear Lake
brated the opening of Independence Plaza
seaside atmosphere, a variety of affordable
Area. While Clear Lake area hospitals, all
in January 2016, its newest space related
housing, and some of the best schools in
leaders in their own right, give health care
attraction. Independence Plaza showcases
Texas make the small cities and villages
professionals the opportunity to work closer
a replica of the Space Shuttle Independence
in the Clear Lake area ideal places to live
to home.
which sits on top of the NASA 905 shuttle
and commercial businesses, a university and
for active families, retirees and young professionals.
TOURISM
carrier.
The Bay Area is often called the “Boating
The Armand Bayou Nature Center is
Clear Lake is an international gateway due
Capital of Texas”, a title based on it having
America’s largest urban wildlife preserve,
to its close proximity to Houston, the fourth
the greatest concentration of boats of any
protecting more than 360 animal species
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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WELCOME TO CLEAR LAKE
Photo courtesy of Eric Pohl
and encompassing three ecosystems. Some
The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the most
lots of sun, delicious food, people watching
70,000 visitors take part in educational
popular
a
and panoramic bay views. A variety of
tours, events, and classes annually. The
colorful carousel, a roller coaster and foun-
interesting shops, galleries and restaurants
Center also comprises the upper portion of
tain on its bustling waterfront plaza. Kemah
surround the Boardwalk’s main hotel. A
the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail.
is a must see for visitors and locals wanting
quaint shopping district off the Boardwalk is
entertainment
venues
with
another tourist destination.
Thinking of Moving?
Call today and let me help you find that perfect home!
Just 30 miles south of
Clear Lake,
Galveston Island epitomizes the resort lifestyle enjoyed by area residents. With
aLeague City Resident for
its sandy beaches, historic hotels and land-
20 years
marks, fine and casual dining, plus the
a2015 & 2016 Texas Monthly Five
unique shopping district known as The
Star Professional Award Winner
Strand, day trips to Galveston are popular
aMember of HAR & NAR aRepresentation at its best; above
getaways. Families can spend the day at Schlitterbahn, one of the largest water
and beyond for all clients!
parks in Texas, and stop by one of the
aClient testimonials available at
many restaurants along the Seawall for
www.marilynames.com or www.soldbymarilynames.com
dinner before heading home.
I am a long time resident of League City and specialize in the area that includes League City, Clear Lake, Seabrook, Nassau Bay, Kemah, Friendswood, Dickinson and Texas City. My priority is always customer service and I am available to my clients 7 days a week in order to provide constant communication.
COMMERCE The Bay Area’s fiscal base consists of the aerospace, petrochemical, healthcare, education and commercial boating industries; recreation; and a robust tourism sector. Attractions like Space Center Houston,
281.799.5572
www.MarilynAmes.com facebook.com/MarilynAmesRealtor • email: RealtyByMarilyn@gmail.com
Marilyn Ames, Broker/Owner 12
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
www.soldbymarilynames.com
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Kemah Boardwalk, Clear Lake and the Armand Bayou Nature Center, plus the region’s access to international airports make Clear Lake a favorite destination for tourists, businesses and newcomers alike.
North of Clear Lake in Baytown, Exxon-
CITIES
townhomes, condominiums and apartment
Mobil and Chevron Phillips are taking
Clear Lake City Community Association
homes. Clear Lake City is served by the
advantage of market conditions to under-
281-488-0360 • www.clcca.org
Clear Creek Independent School District.
improvements, bringing more jobs to the
Friendswood Development Co. developed
area while boosting the economy. Exxon-
and opened the master planned community
Clear Lake Shores 281-334-2799 • www.clearlakeshores-tx.gov
Mobil’s plant in Baytown employs about
called Clear Lake City in 1963. For several
6,000 workers. Expansions will add 350
decades Clear Lake City led the Houston
more. Chevron Phillips project will support
area in the sale of new, single-family homes.
take
extensive
plant
expansions
and
400 long-term jobs and 10,000 construction and engineering jobs.
CULTURE The Clear Lake Area is comprised of nine distinct cities and municipalities representing a combined population of well over 216,000 residents scattered across 125 square miles. The business climate in the Bay Area attracts residents from around the world who bring their diverse cultures to the
In fact, Clear Lake City weathered several economic downturns during the 1980s because of its quality lifestyle, diversified economy-largely the NASA/Johnson Space Center, retail businesses, recreation and tourism.
Located on the shores of Clear Creek and Clear Lake west of Highway 146, Clear Lake Shores is a charming village often called the “Yachting Capital of Texas”. With a little over 1,000 residents, Clear Lake Shores is known for its small town atmosphere and love of the water. The shoreline drive allows golf carts, bicycles, roller bladers, and pedestrians to circumnavigate the island and enjoy
Located on 487 acres adjacent to the
the great views of Clear Lake.
Johnson Space Center, The University
Clear Lake Shores was established in 1927
of Houston-Clear Lake began scheduled
and incorporated in 1962. The community
classes in 1974.
is a blend of original turn-of-the-century cottages, often used for weekend escapes,
region. The area is bordered to the west by
Today, with an estimated population of
Interstate-45 and to the east by Clear Lake;
63,500, Clear Lake City continues to
effectively the mouth of Clear Creek which
develop and attract newcomers with a
The oldest municipal building still in use in
empties into Galveston Bay.
steady supply of new single-family homes,
Galveston County is The Clubhouse and is
and modern homes with full-time residents.
??
Discover Lago Mar, a vibrant 2,033-acre master-planned community where residents will enjoy an active, fun-filled lifestyle kissed by Bay Area breezes.
• Conveniently located off Interstate 45 in Texas City • Tanger Outlet Mall near the community’s entrance • Residents will enjoy a resort-style pool, rec center and walking trails
Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
A Land Tejas Community
New homes from the mid $200s
LagoMarinTexasCity.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
13
WELCOME TO CLEAR LAKE
a source of community pride. Community events throughout the year include music festivals, a children’s fishing derby, parades, holiday events and communitywide dinners. El Lago 281- 326-1951 • www.ellago-tx.com The name of the city means “The Lake.” Located on Taylor Lake, Clear Lake and NASA Road 1, this residential community is home to about 2,700 citizens. The one-square mile city began to develop during the 1950s and was incorporated in 1964. Three subdivisions and several multi-family complexes along with a few small businesses make up El Lago. Kemah 281-334-1611 • www.kemah-tx.gov
Photo courtesy of Ruth Burke
Situated on Clear Creek and Galveston
Kemah is the third largest boating recre-
entire Houston area. It is considered the
Bay, Kemah’s idyllic location and the
ation district in the U. S.
go-to place for out-of-towners staying in Houston. The Boardwalk features a hotel,
ever-present cooling winds from upper Galveston Bay, contribute to Kemah being
The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the
gift shops, numerous restaurants and an
called, “The Gateway to the Bay.” By size,
leading recreational destinations in the
amusement park filled with exciting rides
e m o Welc Kemah... to
Downtown Kemah has the
spectacular Kemah Boardwalk, unique shops,
restaurants of every kind and world class yachting marinas.
Stay and Play on the Bay!
There’s more than you can do in a day...
So stay the weekend or a lifetime
•• Boutique Boutique Shopping Shopping •• Live Live Music Music & & Entertainment Entertainment •• Waterfront Waterfront Dining Dining •• Bed Bed & & Breakfasts Breakfasts •• Charter Charter Yachts Yachts
For more information
www.kemah-tx.gov © Roselyn Pierce-Shirley
14
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
1.877.77KEMAH • (1.877.775-3624)
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
and enjoy all that Kemah has to offer!
like “The Bullet,” one of the top ranked
La Porte
Whether you prefer fishing, sailing, kaya-
roller coasters in the U.S.
281-470-5017 • www.laportetx.gov
king or watching the sun rise, the warm
Additionally, Kemah is just minutes from
La Porte’s many different attractions cater
NASA/Johnson Space Center, 30 minutes
to locals and tourists whose interests are just
from Galveston and 45 minutes from
as diverse. History buffs love visiting the San
League City
Houston. The Lighthouse District with
Jacinto Battleground State Historic Park and
281-554-1000 • www.leaguecity.com
retail stores, boutiques, restaurants and
the Battleship Texas. Eco-tourists and nature
specialty seafood shops is a favorite spot
photographers use La Porte as a center for
with tourists.
their tours of the nearby High Island sanc-
and enjoy the gracious southern atmosphere
tuary system and Armand Bayou wetlands.
that has become its trademark. Touring
Sailors participate in weekly regattas or
the Historic District, museums, and quaint
simply sail south from several marinas in La
shops along Main Street - lined with cano-
Porte towards the Gulf.
pies of stately 100 year-old Butler Oak trees
waters of Galveston Bay are yours to enjoy
Year round festivals, ranging from Crawfish Boils to Boat Parades, car and boat shows, to the Kemah Triathlon add to the many activities available to residents. The annual Fourth of July parade, “The Blessing of the Fleet” and “Jingle on the Boardwalk,” draw thousands of participants from Houston and surrounding areas. Quaint bed and breakfast lodging, hotels and spas accommodate
year-round in La Porte.
League City is a wonderful place to relax
– is a popular pastime. New master-planned La Porte is also the home of the only
communities, established subdivisions and
sandy beach in Harris County, Sylvan
multi-family housing account for most of
Beach Park, which offers 2,000 linear feet
the housing in League City.
of beaches. This venue is great for family parties or business meetings and enjoying
The Dr. Ned & Fay Dudney Nature Center
the great outdoors. Sylvan Beach Park has
offers hiking and biking trails, bird viewing
Kemah is off I-45 at the FM 518 exit, and
a maintained playground for children, clean
areas and a covered picnic pavilion. Heritage
the intersection of FM 2094 and Highway
benches and picnic tables, a fishing pier,
Park has a kayaking launch, fishing pond and
146. The current population is 1,773.
boat ramp, and an air-conditioned pavilion.
playgrounds, perfect for the whole family to
visitors.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
15
WELCOME TO CLEAR LAKE
Photo courtesy of City of Nassau Bay
enjoy. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are beau-
Nassau Bay
of the U.S. space exploration program.
tiful golf courses, marinas and sailing on Clear
281-333- 4211 • www.nassaubay.com
Nassau Bay is accessible by air from
Creek. League City encompasses 53 squaremiles and is mid-way between Houston and Galveston. Founded by Colonel George W.
anywhere in the world through two major Nassau Bay is far from the crowds of
airports and a number of private airfields.
Houston but close enough to enjoy big city life – a small town atmosphere thriving
Nassau Bay was established in 1962 on
Butler in 1873 and first named Clear Creek,
alongside high-tech business. Bordering
the grounds of the famous Spirit of 1776
the city’s name was changed to League City in
NASA/Johnson Space Center, the City of
Ranch. The natural beauty of Nassau Bay
honor of John C. League. Today, League City
Nassau Bay is a community based on tech-
is reflected in its well-maintained parks and
is home to some 102,635 people.
nology and innovation. The city is the heart
public areas where century old native trees
Waterfront Enchantment
Sunday Brunch and culinary events in our Paradise Reef Restaurant • 240 newly renovated guest rooms and suites 25,000 sq. ft. flexible meeting, reunion and event venue • The Oasis: Renovated 185-foot resort pool with swim-up bar
sshr.com On the marina in League City • 2500 South Shore Blvd. • (281) 334-1000
16
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
still stand. Nassau Bay is also a family-ori-
are situated on oversize waterfront lots.
like Lockheed Martin, Stinger Ghaffarian
ented, waterfront community that is fiscally
Building codes and zoning are strictly
Technologies, Ad Astra Rocket Company,
well managed and actively supports the arts
enforced to ensure the quality of new homes
in the Bay Area.
and improvements to existing houses. The
Boeing, TracLabs, NanoRacks, Airbus, and
Seabrook 281-291-5600 • www.seabrooktx.gov Seabrook exudes the intimacy of a real hometown, with its rich green lawns, friendly neighbors and quiet streets, all nestled along the shores of prime waterfront surroundings. A selection of modern apart-
tight knit community regularly takes part in swim teams activities, garden club events, and monthly parties. Residents also enjoy the outdoor activities the surrounding lakes offer.
more. Many companies choose Webster to locate their US headquarters, like ARI-Armaturen, Becker Marine, and Tri-Sen Systems, as Webster is business’ perfect climate and
Webster 1-888-805-9000 • www.cityofwebster.com
offers “The Webster Advantage,” which is a combination of low property tax rates, utility rates, and unsurpassed services. When in
ments, patio homes and condominiums are
As the gateway to NASA and the central
alternatives to single-family residences.
business district of the Clear Lake region,
Webster, live it up at TopGolf, Main Event,
Webster is located midway between down-
Cinemark, Putt-Putt FunHouse, Big Texas
town Houston and Galveston, along the
Dance Hall, Scout Bar, and much more.
backbone of Texas—Interstate 45.
Shop at Academy Sports + Outdoors, Fry’s
Seabrook’s Parks & Recreation Department takes tremendous pride in its efforts to maintain a perfect balance between man and nature. Maintaining the natural environment is important because of Seabrook’s proximity to Galveston Bay. Wildlife and 159 species of birdlife live in the immediate area. Virgin marshlands and hidden lagoons are attractive breeding grounds and migratory nesting places for White and Brown
The
City of Webster features more than 100 restaurants and entertainment venues, 18 hotels, and 32 shopping centers. Webster is renowned for its world-class medical center,
Electronics, Star Furniture, Bed Bath & Beyond, and dine at Pappas Seafood House, La Madeleine, Chuy’s, and Carrabba’s
which serves over 1.8 million patients annu-
Italian Grill. For an out of this world experi-
ally. And, Webster is the aerospace capital of
ence, visit Space Center Houston, Webster’s
the United States, home to top innovators,
award-winning tourism partner.
Pelicans, Ospreys, Cormorants, Herons and Egrets, to name a few. Country clubs, fitness centers, miles of hike and bike trails and acres of parks with pools, tennis courts, soccer and baseball fields offer almost endless recreation choices. From music festivals to wine tastings, regattas, car and boat shows and outdoor markets, Seabrook offers a new dimension to getaway living. Fine dining, fresh seafood on the waterfront or a quick meal to go are all a part of Seabrook’s restaurant scene. Markets along the bay sell just-off-the-boat jumbo shrimp, blue crab and fresh fish. Seabrook is coastal living at its best. Taylor Lake Village 281- 326-2843 • www.taylorlakevillage.us With about 3,600 residents, Taylor Lake and Mud Lake are quiet bedroom communities with quick access to the water. The villages are residential only and offer beautiful forested home sites. Some of the residences
Design. Personalization. Possibilities. Find your inspired new home in suburban South Houston. Discover floorplans and personalization options that allow you to make your dream home a reality.
Hidden Lakes 70' and 80' Final opportunities in League City from the $380s Southern Trails 60', 70' and 85' In Pearland from the 310s
ashtonwoods.com © 2016 Ashton Woods Homes. All rights reserved. All trademarks herein, including Ashton Woods, the “AW” logo, the “AW Ashton Woods” logo, and “Home to Inspiration,” are the property of Ashton Woods Homes and may not be used without express written permission. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades or options. Community Association and golf fees may be required. Ashton Woods Homes reserves the right to change plans, specifications, pricing promotions, incentives, features, elevations, floorplans, designs, materials, amenities and dimensions without notice in its sole discretion. Square footage and dimensions are approximate, subject to change without prior notice or obligation and may vary in actual construction. Community improvements, recreational features and amenities described are based upon current development plans which are subject to change and which are under no obligation to be completed. Wall and window treatments, upgraded flooring, fireplace surrounds, landscape and other features in and around the model homes are designer suggestions and not included in the sale price. All renderings, color schemes, floorplans, maps and displays are artists’ conceptions and are not intended to be an actual depiction of the home or its surroundings. Actual position of home on lot will be determined by the site plan and plot plan. Basements are available subject to site conditions. This is not an offer to sell real estate, or solicitation to buy real estate, in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law or in any jurisdiction where prior registration is required, including New York and New Jersey. Floorplans are the property of Ashton Woods Homes and are protected by the U.S. copyright laws. Please see Sales Representative for additional information. 8.16
HOU16_066_ReloGuide_W-Houston.indd 1
8/25/16 9:01 AM
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17
in this section cities neighborhoods master planned communities harris county map
11 88
C C LL EE A A RR LL A A KK EE A A RR EE A A N N EE W WC CO OM M EE RR G G UU II D D EE
–– FFA A LL LL 22 00 11 77 // W W II N N TT EE RR 22 00 11 88
HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS With a variety of lifestyle choices, it’s not hard to see why the Clear Lake area continues to grow year after year. Add a close to everything location, award-winning schools, and robust business centers and hospitals, and you’ve got a great place to call home, build a business and play sunrise to sunset.
The small cities and villages scattered
to be popular with families seeking on-site
CLEAR LAKE CITY
throughout the Clear Lake Area have grown
parks and recreation centers, quality schools,
The Reserve at Clear Lake City
over the years and so has the variety of
business districts and shopping close by. You
neighborhoods, each with its own coastal
will learn more about these master planned
character and lifestyle. If living on the water
communities in the following pages.
is a must, Clear Lake area communities offer
This new 372-acre luxury home community is located southeast of Sam Houston Parkway and Interstate 45 near Ellington
waterfront properties with easy access to the
Townhouses, apartment homes and a luxury
Field. The Reserve at Clear Lake City is the
lake and ultimately the bay. Some homes
high-rise with panoramic views of the lake
area’s first new home development in two
even have private boat slips. Acreage for a
are popular choices with young singles and
rural lifestyle or a coastal retreat can also be
retirees.
found. With the arrival of NASA in the early 1960s residential development in the Bay Area soared. Today, some of the most desired
Determining the right place to live will require a visit to get acquainted with all of the neighborhoods. The Clear Lake Area
decades. The first phase will feature 165 high-end homes on 55, 70 and 80 foot lots; a mix of traditional single-family and patio homes. A shopping center anchored by an H-E-B Grocery store, shops and restaurants are nearby.
Chamber of Commerce along with Realtors,
Neighborhood amenities include miles of
builders, property managers, and others who
hiking and biking trails as well as a recre-
know the local housing market are ready to
ation center with a swimming pool, splash
welcome newcomers. Visit www.Houston-
pad, tennis courts and playgrounds. Resi-
Master planned communities providing the
NewcomerGuides.com to access contact
dents are zoned to the award winning Clear
latest home designs and amenities continue
information.
Creek Independent School District.
neighborhoods in the Houston region are in the Clear Lake Area with over 216,000 residents.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
19
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Bay Oaks The original homes in Bay Oaks were constructed in 1989 and the neighborhood was built-out by 2002. It is home to Bay Oaks Country Club and Golf Course. The 690-acre site is comprised of 1,100 homes ranging in price from the upper $300s into the millions.
FRIENDSWOOD West Ranch The expansive 766-acre West Ranch master planned community is under development along the banks of Clear Creek and Chigger Creek. Some of Houston’s top homebuilders offer single-family homes and estates starting from the $350,000s. Planners have balanced the community with two man-made lakes that are surrounded by over 100 acres of beautifully landscaped parks and nature trails. West Ranch is zoned to the highly rated Friendswood Independent School District.
LEAGUE CITY Mar Bella Mar Bella is just minutes from the popular Kemah Boardwalk and less than 25 minutes from Galveston. This resort community features a series of lakes, recreation center with resort pool, pocket parks and walking trails that meander throughout the community. Students attend the exclusive Clear Creek Education Village almost in the community’s backyard. Prices vary per builder, lot size, features and floor plan. The Township This quaint community is located in the heart of old town League City. Newly built homes feature colonial inspired architectural design, large front porches and oversized home sites. The Township is conveniently located near local attractions such as Kemah Boardwalk,
NASA
Space
Center
and
Galveston Island. Acclaimed Clear Creek I.S.D.
20
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
medical facilities and Clear Creek ISD schools are nearby. Westover Park Westover Park is a master-planned community conveniently located on the south side of FM 518 in League City, approximately three miles west of Interstate 45. Amenities include a recreation center with swimming pool, a multi-purpose sports field, playground, lake, and park. Children in the community attend schools in the Clear Creek Independent School District. Victory Lakes The Victory Lakes clubhouse is the heart of this family-active community. With a general purpose room, cafe, library and Photo courtesy of Tuscan Lakes
administrative offices the club house hosts most
Tuscan Lakes Tuscan Lakes is a master-planned community by the acclaimed Johnson Corporation. The community is spread over 870-acres where thoughtfully sited open spaces and trails enhance the lifestyle. Aqueducts as gracefully aged as their Italian models, rolling hills and beautiful flowers fill the environmentally
sensitive
community
meetings,
clubs
and
hotel; and a 70,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art
organized events. Amenities include a play-
fitness center. Early learning and day care
ground; multipurpose court for basketball
facilities, shopping centers, restaurants,
and other activities; 2 regulation tennis
OLD-SCHOOL CUSTOMER SERVICE, NEW-TECH DELIVERY
“5-STAR DEALERSHIP”
HHHHH
“THANK YOU!”
HHHHH
landscape.
Cypress Point, the resort-style recreation center, is accented by a stone fireplace that is a year-round gathering spot for residents. Upon
completion,
1,800
single-family
homes and a number of multi-family units will have quick access to commercial and retail areas outside the gates of Tuscan Lakes. Clear Creek ISD schools. For more information visit www.tuscanlakes.com. South Shore Harbour South Shore Harbour offers residents a variety of recreational opportunities in the
“PERFECT!”
HHHHH
heart of the Clear Lake Area. Amenities include the South Shore Harbour Country Club with a 27-hole championship course designed by Jay Riviere, Dave Marr, and Carlton Gipson; a 1,000-slip marina; conference center and 250 room resort
www.FredeChevrolet.com • 281.486.2200
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
21
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Harris County Largest county in eastern half of state; level; typically coastal surface and soils; many bayous, canals for artificial drainage; Lake Houston, Sheldon Reservoir; partly forested.
UP
R
T
69 Bellaire
1876
N
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UP
59
Stafford Missouri City
Galveston County
LR
521
Harris County © Texas Almanac
Clear Lake Shores H A R R I S Clear Lake 146
ar Cle
270 96
League City
40'
1266 3436
Dickinson
1765
BR
Santa Fe
AZ
646
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T
TC
197
OR
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188
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C Friendswood k
124
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342
108
o rac nt fI
ay
0
Gilchrist
South Houston
William P. Hobby Airport
UP
134
225
Deer Park LR LR
UP
La Porte
146
Baytown 99
Morgans Point
146
Shoreacres Taylor 8 Johnson Lake Village ek 35 Space Clear Cre Center El Lago Pearland Clear 2351 Seabrook Lake BRAZORIA Webster Nassau Friendswood Bay 270 146 518 45 3 League 528 City NASA1 8 MILES G A LV E S T O N
BOLIVAR PENINSULA
Crystal Beach
Partly island, partly coastal; flat, artificial drainage; sandy, loam, clay soils; broken by bays.
87
Port Bolivar Free Ferry OLD FORT
87 SAN JACINTO
GALVESTON
West Bay Jamaica Beach GALVESTON
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ISLAND STATE PARK
w ater lW asta
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8
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UP
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Galena Park
West University Place
1942
on
Bunker Hill Vil.
1093
Barrett Highlands McNair
CHAMBERS
99
Sheldon
Jacinto City
Hunters Creek Vil. Piney Point Vil.
to
u
yo u o Ba ffal BuBarker Reservoir
Ja ci n
o Bay
Barker
10
610
er
v Ri
Spring Valley Hedwig Addicks Vil.
UP Katy 90
SHELDON LAKE STATE PARK
Crosby n
Sa
HOUSTONUP Hilshire Vil.
Addicks Reservoir
yo u Greens Ba
UP
HARDY OAD
LR
518
59
TOLL R
529
SHELDON WILDLIFE MGMT AREA
Cedar
525
Aldine
Jersey Village
6
90
UP
st
1960
2100
Lake Houston
UP
R
eek
ss Cr
Cypre
8
Huffman
UP
LLE
Cypress
UP
George Bush 69 Humble Intercontinental Airport
UP LR
1960
Atascocita
UP
WA
6
99
LR
nt o
Y
LR
290
LR
Klein
RT
Hockley
Kingwood
BE
SF
BN
99
Spring
2920
rk Fo i st We Jac n Sa
LR
Waller
LR
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2920
LI
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eek Spring Cr
MONTGOMERY
45
Hufsmith
ve
2978 249
310'
UP
362
al
362 1488
1736
Wages $37,346,009,148 Per Capita Inc. $55,088 Prop. Value $472,155,923,085 Retail Sales $88,892,139,887
Rainfall (in.) 56.81 Jan. mean. min. 43.4 July mean max. 90.7 Civilian labor 2,279,367 Unemployed 5.3
Population 4,538,028 Change fm 2010 10.9 Area (sq.mi.) 1,777.5 Land area(sq.mi.) 1,703.5 Altitude (ft.) sea level–310
3005
San Luis Pass
Population 322,225
July mean max.
Change fm 2010
Civilian labor
89.6 160,210
Area (sq.mi.)
873.8
Unemployed 5.6
Land area(sq.mi.)
378.4
Wages $1,270,109,659 Per Capita Inc
$47,991
Altitude (ft.)
sea level–40
Rainfall (in.)
50.76
Prop. Value
$30,079,936,427
48.6
Retail Sales
$3,883,946,813
Jan. mean. min. 0
10.6
8 MILES
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
22
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
to the friendly atmosphere, top-notch school districts and the scenic beauty of the beaches and waterways of these coastal villages.
TEXAS CITY Lago Mar Lago Mar is a brand-new 2,033-acre master planned community on Holland Road west of Interstate 45. Lago Mar is just minutes from Galveston and its many attractions including Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn, Galveston Pleasure Pier and the historical Strand. The Tanger Outlet Mall, near the community’s gated entrance, is a draw for the fun-loving and savvy shoppers. Adventure Pointe, a 35-acre amusement park, coming to the community, will feature a courts; volleyball court; and picnic areas
bungalows with the latest technology as
speedway, mini golf, a water park, midway-
with grills and tables.
well as houses ready for updating are on the
styled boardwalk, an outdoor ice skating
market in these small cities.
rink and an outdoor entertainment venue with seating for up to 1,200. Students attend
CLEAR LAKE SHORES, EL LAGO, TAYLOR LAKE VILLAGE, NASSAU BAY
Whether you chose a new house or a
classes in the Dickinson Independent School
pre-owned home, an apartment or a town-
District. For information visit LagoMarin-
Pre-owned homes in these charming villages
house, you will quickly become accustomed
TexasCity.com. ď Ź
offer premium locations, waterfront, and oversized lots that cannot be duplicated in newer developments. You will find a variety of home styles from upscale custom and modern contemporary to transitional home designs in the villages.
KEMAH, SEABROOK AND WEBSTER Edgewater Edgewater is the perfect combination of convenience and seclusion. This Bay Area waterfront community features palm tree-
RON CARTER CLEAR LAKE A PARTNER IN SUPPORTING EDUCATION AND ATHLETICS IN THE GREATER CLEAR LAKE AREA.
lined streets, a 35-acre nature preserve, and panoramic views of Clear Creek. Edgewater is located on the new Nasa Parkway Bypass at Interstate45 in Clear Creek I.S.D. Visit www.edgewaterwebster.com. Charming cottages and homes with age and character are traditionally found in established neighborhoods in Kemah, Seabrook and Webster. The houses appeal to buyers who desire unique homes that reflect the early beginnings of the area. Picture perfect
RonCarterClearLake.com
281.283.7000
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
23
LONE STAR
FLIGHT MUSUEM 2 42 4 C LCE LAERA R L ALKAEK A E RAERAE A N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– F– AFLAL L 2L 021071 7 / W / IW N ITNE TRE R 2 021081 8
Once cleared for takeoff, the flight begins.
Photo by Luigino Caliaro courtesy of Lone Star Flight Musuem
The grand opening of the Lone Star Flight Museum was originally planned on the weekend Hurricane Harvey hit the Houston area, dumping more than 60-inches of rain and causing wide spread flooding. Ironically, it was flooding from Hurricane Ike in 2008 that first prompted museum officials to explore moving the acclaimed museum from Galveston’s Scholes Field to a safer location in Houston. Nine years later, the museum survived Harvey to officially open at Ellington Airport just a few weeks behind schedule. Ellington Airport already supports a broad range of aviation interests including the United States military and NASA, where Astronauts from Johnson Space Center receive their ongoing space training. It is also home to the Houston Spaceport, the nation’s 10th commercial spaceport, and the annual Wings Over Houston Airshow among other activities. The Lone Star Flight Museum has a national and international reputation as one of the top flying museums in the United States. Moving the museum required flying vintage military aircraft, including a B-17 bomber, some 50 miles to its new home in Houston. Volunteers lined up for the honor of flying aircraft to Houston and many helped relocate hundreds of exhibits and thousands of artifacts. Led by CEO Lt. Gen. (ret) Douglas H. Owens, the Lone Star Flight Museum is a $38 million state-of-the-art aviation museum and STEM learning center. In addition to the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame, the 130,000 square foot facility houses aircraft displays, interactive exhibits, and actively supports STEM educational programs.
Among the many educational and recreational destinations located in the greater Clear Lake Area, the Lone Star Flight Museum at Ellington Airport is a stand out; as a world-class educational museum and a safe landing for a historic but fragile aircraft collection prized by generations.
Photo by Kevin McGowan / Lone Star Flight Musuem
FLIGHT PLAN • Honor the history of Texas aviation •A viation Learning Center, an interactive STEM learning experience •P rovide hands-on, state-of-the-arts exhibits •S howcase the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame Education Center •P rotect and preserve museum aircraft and artifacts
LANDING 11551 Aerospace Avenue Houston, TX 77034 (346) 708-2517 Toll free: 1-888-FLY-LSFM (359-5736) Email: info@lonestarflight.org Hours: Open Daily 9 AM - 5 PM
COMING EVENT Wings Over Houston, October 21-22 Vintage World War II and modern aircraft www.wingsoverhouston.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
25
in this section
Photo courtesy of Lannar Homes
choosing a Realtor home ownership cost of living mortgage options
2 62 6 C LCE LAERA R L ALKAEK A E RAERAE A N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– F– AFLAL L 2L 021071 7 / W / IW N ITNE TRE R 2 021081 8
HOME FRONT In Clear Lake, where almost every housing budget can be accommodated. Single-family home buyers can choose eco-friendly designs, new homes in master-planned neighborhoods, luxury residences in gated communities or resale homes in established districts.
In making a decision to buy, build or lease
houses fitting a buyer’s criteria while taking
are very knowledgeable of the most current
there are several questions every home
into consideration lifestyle, employment,
real estate practices.
shopper should ask. Do you prefer a new
educational needs, pricing and other factors
housing development or an established
associated with the purchase of a home.
neighborhood? What schools best suit your children’s educational needs? Is leasing the wise choice for the short term?
CHOOSING A REALTOR Buying or selling a home is one of the most important transactions most people make in their lifetime. Using the services of a fulltime real estate professional for any property transaction should be strongly considered. The real estate industry is constantly changing, and unless you have the time
Some
Realtors
are
Texas
Affordable
Housing Specialists. Their training includes Choosing the right Realtor is also very
education on green technologies that can
important. There is a difference between
make some houses more affordable than
a REALTOR and a real estate agent. Only
others. Realtors may also have a certification
professionals who are members of the
from Earth Advantage.
National Association of REALTORS (and
to spot and understand the advantages of
other local associations) can use the desig-
green construction. An EcoBrokers designa-
nation. Members must abide by a strict code
tion assures a Realtor has extensive training
of ethics based on competency, fairness and
in environmental conservation and green
a high level of integrity, and they cannot
energy.
They are trained
discriminate against a person based on race, religion, gender, handicap, familial status or
The Clear Lake Area Newcomer and Relo-
national origin.
cation Guide is an excellent resource for
to become familiar with local real estate
locating local real estate professionals. More
law, title insurance policies, home warran-
Some Realtors have extensive training to
information is online at www.Houston-
ties, home lending practices, appraisals,
represent buyers in a transaction and have
NewcomerGuides.com in the Real Estate
hazard
other
acquired the designation CBR (Certified
section.
issues, the services of a Realtor are highly
Buyer Representative), which readily iden-
recommended.
tifies a buyer’s agent whose services include
insurance,
surveys
and
ethical representation in a non-adversarial
HOME OWNERSHIP NEW HOMES
An experienced Realtor can save time and
fashion. Agents who have acquired this
If a new home is your choice, there are many
money, especially for people moving to a
designation are exclusively committed to
outstanding home sites and builders in the
new area. A Realtor can quickly find many
providing excellent buyer representation and
Clear Lake area. Home sites in subdivisions,
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
27
HOME FRONT
COST OF LIVING
When it comes to overall cost of living, Houston is still an affordable place to live and work. Here’s how the Houston area ranked in a comparison to other major U.S. cities (based on the QTR 1 2017 annual average) City
Composite 100%
Grocery 13.61%
Atlanta
97.7
Austin
97.7
Boston
104.7
148.6
86.8
Housing 27.59%
Utilities 1 0.03%
Transportation 9.59%
Healthcare Misc. 4.00% 35.15%
91.1
89.2
101.4
99.8
99.9 96.6
99.2 99.8
204.4
123
109.3
152.5
89.1 129.3
102.6 115.5
Cleveland
101.4
110.8
89.7
98.7 103.3
102 107.1
Dallas / Fort Worth
101.2
90.6
Denver
111.8
99.7
Houston
102.4
111.5
100.4
107.1
Chicago
146.6
107.8
102.3
133
101.2
95.1 108.4
134.1
103.4
133.1
103.7
104.7 106.3
97
84.8
104.8
99.3
92.9
90.6
96.7
New York City (Manhattan)
230.8
129
479.9
119.2
130.6
114.6
147.1
Philadelphia
116.2
115.3
129
121.9 112.2
Phoenix
94.7
97.5
97.8
98.1 90.7
Charlotte
94.8
94.2
86.5
90.7
97
San Francisco
188.5
121.9
351.8
114.4
130.3
Seattle
145.1
128.5
181.7
120.7 128.4
Tucson
94.5
102.4
83.3
88.5
96.8
105.4 107.3 98.9 90.9 102.9 101.1 123.7
130.7
125.7 136.5 101.7 100.5
waterfront lots and rural acreage are only a
RESALE HOMES
few of the choices in the Clear Lake area.
Resale homes are usually located in established neighborhoods whose residents are
“We will provide timely, knowledgeable and dedicated service to locate and secure the property that best meets your needs and requirements. Whether you choose to lease, buy or sell, we will skillfully guide you every step of the way.”
Model homes in new communities showcase
involved in community activities, local
the features and options home builders offer.
schools, churches, and businesses. These
Visiting different model homes is time well
homes may have many of the amenities
spent when making a new-home purchase.
families already desire or offer the potential for a major transformation by adding custom
The architectural styles, floor plans, inte-
features to personalize the house. Previous
rior finishes, appliances and other custom
owners may have planted additional trees,
touches vary from builder to builder.
installed landscaping and made changes to
Some builders work with home-buyers to
the original structure of the house.
customize rooms, adjust the square footage of the house, add detail to interiors, special appliance packages and energy saving
Professional Service You Can Trust!
features. Whether buying a new home or a resale property, home buyers should become
Your Houston Real Estate & Apartment Locating Specialists
281.326.HOME
www.DavidTheLocator.com 28
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
familiar with deed restrictions and homeowners association regulations that might be
Hire a licensed inspector to go through the house and evaluate its condition. The inspection process determines if the dwelling is structurally sound, with a good foundation and roof. If repairs are required get several estimates for the cost of the entire project. A good source of referrals is the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.
in effect. Taxes are another consideration,
Remodeling may involve simple modifi-
and will vary by the county, school district
cations or require complex changes to the
and MUD where property is located.
structure of the house. You may need to
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
Similar to an apartment, but usually offering more space and amenities, condos and townhomes can also be leased. These properties are usually listed with area Realtors or property management companies. Occasionally individual owners list their units in area newspapers. Quality, single-family rental properties can be difficult to find. A one-year lease is standard, and owners may handle their property. Large, upscale homes usually command the full market rate, and expect security deposits on single-family homes to equal one month’s rent. Renters of single-family homes usually pay utility bills.
Photo courtesy of City of Nassau Bay
hire a professional contractor to achieve
range from six months to one year. Month-
Renters should always sign a lease for any
your objectives. These companies can paint,
to-month leases are available but usually
property they intend to occupy whether it
move walls, update cabinets, countertops,
command premium prices. Many apartment
is an apartment or a single-family home.
bathroom fixtures, flooring, add on to the
communities have strict policies regarding
Many apartment complexes use standard
existing structure and more. It is a good
pets. All complexes that allow pets require
leases endorsed by the Texas Apartment
idea to get several bids in writing and check
additional deposits that are refunded when
Association (TAA) and Houston Apartment
the lease is terminated.
Association.
the company’s references. The Clear Lake area has an excellent selection of quality pre-owned homes.
WORKING WITH HAPPY RELOCATION BUYER, SELLERS AND INVESTORS IN THE CLEAR LAKE & HOUSTON AREA SINCE 2004
RENTING & LEASING Most apartment locators maintain a database of information about area complexes. For newcomers planning to rent, apartment locators can help you select the ideal rental property. Once you have determined the area and price range, local experts will give you specific information about available units and arrange viewing appointments. These services are provided at no charge to the prospective renter. Often, newcomers desire executive apartments until their permanent residence becomes available. Visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com/clear-lake
to
contact
an apartment locating service or an area Realtor for suggestions.
ABR, CRS, GRI, TRLP
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HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
29
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MANAGEABLE.
AFFORDABLE. LIFESTYLE. Many lenders can pre-approve mortgage applications which make it easier to negotiate the purchase contract. To get started, assemble the required loan documents and consult with banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies.
Although home prices have risen in Houston, it still ranks as one of the most affordable big cities in the U.S. for homeownership. Despite a flattening economy, Houston home sales stayed stable in 2016 and even gained momentum toward the end of the year, ultimately setting a record of 91,520 sales closed over the year, according to the Greater Houston Association Partnership. More good news comes in the form of relaxed lending standards that could benefit first-time buyers. In late 2014, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered mortgage corporations, relaxed lending guidelines that were tightened after the national housing crisis that began in 2008. Now, some buyers can get a mortgage with only 3 percent down payment and a minimum FICO credit score of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are also offered by various government agencies. Some groups, including teachers, police officers and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University reported that the Bay Area’s median single-family home price was a very affordable $193,700 in December 2015.
Combined with quality schools, excellent medical and recreational facilities, the booming business climate and short commute times to other parts of Houston, the Clear Lake Area is a very desirable place to live. The following pages cover the basics of financing a home, along with some special considerations for unique circumstances in the Clear Lake area market.
HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?
are expenses, while household income includes salary and other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of high-rises, mid-rises and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be considered in the overall expenses. Developed by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, the Texas Housing Affordability Index (THAI) measures the ratio of median household income required to buy a median-priced home, using a 30-year mortgage with a 20 percent down payment as its model. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that the median household income is just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the median-priced home. Houston’s most recent THAI was an impressive 1.79, higher than state and national THAI averages.
Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to home ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that Houstonians typically spend about 30 percent of their incomes on housing, so the city overall is right in line with that advice, albeit slightly on the high side.
MORTGAGE OPTIONS
Experts also suggest that household expenses not exceed 43 percent of personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insurance, credit card balances, utilities, food and health care as well as any payments on outstanding loans and leases
Several different types of mortgages are common today. A standard 30-year fixed rate mortgage is the most common way to finance a home; 15-year fixed rate mortgages are another option. The 40-year mortgage has become more popular in some parts of the country where home prices
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
31
HOME FRONT
are rising fast, but many experts agree that
self-amortizing, which means at the end of
the tradeoff of a slightly lower monthly
the term, the principal has been repaid.
payment for much more interest paid over the life of the loan does not make economic
The purchase price less the down payment
sense. For all fixed-rate loans, the amount
is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing
of the mortgage payment, the interest rate
the principal by the number of payments in
and the term of the loan are fixed and fully
a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding
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the interest determines the monthly house payment. Escrow money for taxes and insurance is added to the payments according to the terms of the lender, and the amounts are recalculated annually. The Alternative Mortgage Instrument (AMI) is a loan in which at least one of the four components vary. The most common AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins low and periodically adjusts either up or down within limits based on a pre-specified index. The initial low rate, and therefore, the lower monthly payment, enables the buyer to meet the income and debt-ratio requirement.
DOWN PAYMENT The down payment is the cash committed toward the purchase of a home. For most loans, a down payment of 20 percent of the purchase price is required to avoid paying Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), although it is possible to take out a secondary loan to avoid PMI.
INTEREST RATES Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year
Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government
NCUA
National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency
fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different
WWW.JSCFCU.ORG 32
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate mortgages reset according to the terms of the lender.
rate. Closing costs are typically paid by the buyer at the time of closing.
CREDIT REPORT Lenders will require a credit report from the credit bureau that has collected your credit
of credit in use. In addition to informing lenders of credit-worthiness, your credit score can also determine the interest rate you pay. The better the credit score, the lower the interest rate. More information on credit scoring is at www.myfico.com.
history for the past seven to 10 years. Credit
• TransUnion® - www.transunion.com
reports document your financial history
• EquiFax® - www.equifax.com
and reflect the amount of credit you have,
• Experian® - www. Experian.com
the timeliness with which you pay your bills, if you have declared bankruptcy and other factors that give the lender a financial snapshot. Traditional mortgage lenders require an established credit history, but some lenders Photo courtesy of Ashton Woods Homes
may offer more flexible mortgage programs for people with limited or no established credit record.
CLOSING COSTS Typically between 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price of a home, closing costs include related fees such as costs for running credit reports, loan origination, appraisal, survey, title insurance, and discount points paid to lower the interest
Credit reports also carry your credit score, a numeric ranking between 300 and 850 that many lenders use.
PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is beneficial because it gives sellers a level of assurance that the prospective buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big plus in a competitive market. Pre-approval requires the completion of a loan application and sometimes a fee. Pre-qualification, on the other hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a prospective buyer might qualify for.
It is calcu-
lated using five factors: payment history,
TAX DEDUCTIONS
amount of outstanding debt, length of
Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may
credit history, new credit and the sources
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169024
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33
HOME FRONT
include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. For more information, visit irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
for credit unions to be community-based,
Union League www.cornerstoneleague.coop
meaning that anyone can use a credit
and the Credit Union National Association
union as their primary financial institution.
www.cuna.org.
Members are insured for up to $250,000 per account by the National Credit Union
BANKS
Administration.
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE Homeowner insurance is required by mort-
Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competi-
More information about credit unions
gage lenders, and is essential even if a home
tive rates.
is available from the Cornerstone Credit
is paid for. Buyers are typically asked to
In addition to checking and
savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services,
different
accounts,
minimum
balance requirements, ATM charges, availability of funds policy, direct deposit and other options. Contact the Texas Department of Banking toll free 877-276-5554 or visit www.dob.texas.gov.
CREDIT UNIONS Credit unions are a good source to check for mortgage loans because they may offer lower or competitive rates. Historically, credit unions have been employer-based financial institutions but today it is common
Monthly Mortgage Calculator Estimated monthly mortgage (P&I) payments based on 30 year fixed amortization
34
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
Loan Amount
3.5 % interest
4.0 % interest
4.5 %
$150,000 $170,000 $190,000 $200,000 $220,000 $240,000 $260,000 $280,000 $300,000 $320,000 $340,000 $360,000 $380,000 $400,000 $420,000 $440,000 $460,000 $480,000 $500,000
$ 673.57 $763.38 $853.18 $898.09 $987.90 $1,077.71 $1,167.52 $1,257.33 $1,347.13 $1,436.94 $1,526.75 $1,616.56 $1,706.37 $1,796.18 $1,885.99 $1,975.80 $2,065.61 $2,155.41 $2,245.22
$716.12 $811.61 $907.09 $954.83 $1,050.31 $1,145.80 $1,241.28 $1,336.76 $1,432.25 $1,527.73 $1,623.21 $1,718.70 $1,814.18 $1,909.66 $2,005.14 $2,100.63 $2,196.11 $2,291.59 $2,387.08
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interest
5.0 % interest
5.5 % interest
$760.03 $861.37 $962.70 $1,013.37 $1,114.71 $1,216.04 $1,317.38 $1,418.72 $1,520.06 $1,621.39 $1,722.73 $1,824.07 $1,925.40 $2,026.74 $2,128.08 $2,229.42 $2,330.75 $2,432.09 $2,533.43
$805.23 $912.60 $1,019.96 $1,073.64 $1,181.01 $1,288.37 $1,395.74 $1,503.10 $1,610.46 $1,717.83 $1,825.19 $1,932.56 $2,039.92 $2,147.29 $2,254.65 $2,362.02 $2,469.38 $2,576.74 $2,684.11
$851.68 $965.24 $1,078.80 $1,135.58 $1,249.14 $1,362.69 $1,476.25 $1,769.79 $1,703.37 $1,816.92 $1,930.48 $2,044.04 $2,157.60 $2,271.16 $2,384.71 $2,498.27 $2,611.83 $2,725.39 $2,838.95
pay one year of insurance at closing, with
All of your Relocation Services Under One Roof
premiums included in monthly mortgage payments. Selecting an insurance company and determining coverage is the responsibility of the buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract to purchase a house is accepted by the seller. The Texas Board of Insurance www.tdi.texas.gov is a valuable source of information. In some fast-transitioning Central Houston neighborhoods, the value of the lot may represent a much larger-than-average share of overall property value, and it may be a good idea to talk with several insurance companies – especially those who specialize in the area – to make sure you are getting ample coverage and the best rate. Many companies offer discounts when home insurance is combined with auto coverage, life insurance, health insurance and other types of insurance that they may need. In Houston, flood insurance is required or recommended by mortgage companies in some neighborhoods. Floodplain maps are determined by the Harris County Flood Control District, which has a mapping tool at harriscountyfemt.org.
Moving is a lot of work. We make finding your new home easy, and with one call you can get it all.
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FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS A variety of programs are designed to help first-time buyers, including FHA loans with a 3 percent down payment discussed at the beginning of this article.
Down Payment Assistance Grants New Checking and Savings Accounts Click. acutx.org/NewMover | Call. (281) 476-3600 | Email. NewMover@acutx.org
The City of Houston and Harris County also offer homebuyer assistance programs that can provide down payment assistance and special financing for buyers who meet certain household income and purchase price criteria. The Houston Homebuyer Assistance program website has details at www.houstontx.gov/housing. Other programs include Southeast Texas Housing Finance at www.sethfc.com and the Harris County Down Payment Assistance Program www.harriscountytx.gov/csd. Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders are also good sources of information about available homebuyer assistance programs.
CUFG Keystone Realty Group, LLC is a full service real estate agency wholly owned by CU Financial Group, LLC. CU Financial Group, LLC d/b/a ACU Insurance Services is a credit union service organization wholly owned by Associated Credit Union of Texas. Keystone Community Development Corp., is a nonprofit corporation associated with Associated Credit Union of Texas and CU Financial Group, LLC. ACU of Texas is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). CUFG Keystone Realty Group, ACU Insurance Services and Keystone Community Development Corporation are not federally insured by the NCUA.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
35
in this section moving companies forwarding mail utilities public transportation international relocation
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RELOCATION INFORMATION
You can take care of many things before you make a major move. But, knowing who to call and when, where to go, and how to get there is a big part of putting down roots. Relax, this chapter will help you along the way.
Obtaining as much information as possible in advance about Houston and Harris County will make your move much smoother, especially if you are relocating from out of state. To help get you started, the following pages offer some general tips on Houston’s basic services. More helpful information on moving is at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
MOVING COMPANIES If you are moving from out of state, it may be necessary to hire a moving company. The best time to move is the middle of the month rather than the end or during summer vacation, when moving companies are usually busiest. At the other extreme, Houston’s global economy draws newcomers from around the world, and there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when moving from overseas. If your overseas move is work-related, find out how much of the expense will be covered. As a general rule, many experts recommend scaling your belongings down to essential items
and those with emotional value. Find out
shipped and the required services on the
about import fees and duty costs, especially
estimate form, and the price quoted is the
for items you may have purchased overseas.
binding price. Every charge is itemized,
Also consider the size of your new space:
so that if an item is added or deleted, it is
will it be larger or smaller than the home
easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving
you’re leaving? If you’re a U.S. citizen who
company must also specify the length of
is moving back from overseas, then you
time the price quote is in effect, which is
might have many items in U.S. storage,
usually 60 days. This type of estimate does
so you’ll also need to plan the logistics of
not require additional payment over the
getting these to your new home.
amount of the estimate.
TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES
The non-binding estimate, which is the only
Most companies give free estimates based on distance and the weight of household contents. Some moving companies include the costs of packing materials in their bid while others break out supplies separately. Packing services, fuel charges, wait time and temporary storage costs may vary considerably so be sure to ask about all charges.
situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost
Moving companies offer three types of esti-
move should be entered on each form that
mates: the binding estimate, non-binding
is prepared by the mover, including orders
estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate.
for special services and bills of lading. If the
type of estimate offered in some intrastate of services is determined after the truck is loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20 percent. Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both before and after furniture and household items are loaded to accurately calculate the total weight. The estimated amount of your
amounts are not included, do not sign or The binding estimate lists all items to be
accept the document.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
37
R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
The third type of estimate, called the not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best. The mover gives a binding estimate, then weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all movers if they offer this type of service.
MORE CONSIDERATIONS Be aware that many moving companies fall behind schedule, so consider hiring a moving company that will guarantee a pickup and delivery date. Make sure those dates are in the contract. Pick-up and delivery dates should not be open-ended. Although
moving
companies
provide
liability insurance on household belongings by the pound, it is wise to purchase extra insurance that provides additional coverage, especially for those items that are more
inventory, check it carefully against your
valuable.
own before signing anything. Should any of
Before the movers arrive, begin making preparations. Take an inventory of your belongings and note their condition. If the moving company performs their own
MARY JANE DIXON CPA, CFP™, CSA CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ CERTIFIED SENIOR ADVISOR
Serving Bay Area Since 1968
your belongings arrive with scratches, dents or other damages, photographs will help verify a claim so consider taking pictures of valuable items or making a video inventory before the movers arrive. It is important to be sure you will be at your new home on the date the moving company is scheduled to deliver. If no one is home to receive the delivery, your belongings will go into storage, and the moving company may require payment in cash before unloading.
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• Select a moving company carefully by confirming their license at www.protectyourmove.gov or www.dmv.state.tx.us.
& Preserve Your Wealth
281-486-4144
• The Southwest Association is another resource for information about moving companies and they can be reached at www.mytexasmover.com or 512-476-0107, Toll Free: 800-759-2305
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Tax deductions may apply to your move so keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S. at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov, or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
• Contact the Better Business Bureau for any complaints that might be on file at www.houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500.
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
• The Interstate Commerce Commission offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.” ICC Office of Compliance and Consumer Assistance, Washington, D.C., 20423. You can also find the brochure on many websites by searching for its title.
POLICE DEPARTMENT The Houston Police Department and municipal police departments protect the area. Both Harris and Galveston Counties have Sheriff ’s Departments and Constables who actively patrol outside of the cities. The Crime Stoppers program also assures the safety of citizens. Some neighborhoods employ private patrols or organize volunteer watch groups. Law enforcement agencies offer crime prevention tips and services like document disposal days to help prevent identity theft.
FIRE DEPARTMENT The Houston Fire Department (HFD) and volunteer fire departments in Harris and Galveston Counties protect the area. The Houston Fire Department’s specialty teams include hazardous materials experts, a highrise rescue squad and a team trained to deal with emergencies at the airports. Most departments also offer community safety programs and inspections on request. For more information about services, contact the Houston Fire Department Public Affairs at 832-394-6633.
A number of fire departments serve Galveston County and an online directory can be found at www.firedepartment.net/ directory/texas/galveston-county. Ambulance services and EMT are coordinated through the Houston Fire Department.
TEXAS GOVERNMENT The Texas state government is similar to that of most states, with executive, legislative and judicial branches governing Texas 254 counties. Most elected officials serve four-year terms. The Senate is comprised of 31 members, and 150 members are in the House of Representatives. The Texas Legislature meets each odd-numbered year for 140 days and for special sessions called by the governor. The judiciary is headed by the Texas Supreme Court and by its coordinate court, the State Court of Criminal Appeals. There are 456 district courts, each with an elected judge. All Texas County governments follow the structure established by the Texas Constitution. Each county is divided into four precincts from which a commissioner is elected to serve a four-year term. A county judge is elected from the county at large.
VOTER REGISTRATION To vote in Texas, you must be at least 18 years of age and a U.S. citizen. You must submit a voter registration form; to register or obtain information in Harris County, call 713-368-2000 or Galveston County call 409-766-2280. You will need photo identification in Texas when voting in person.
LIQUOR LAWS The minimum age to buy or order liquor is 21 years of age. Liquor store hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and closed on Christmas, New Year’s Day or Thanksgiving. In Texas, the legal limit for driving intoxication is .08 Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). If an officer thinks your driving is impaired, you can still be stopped and arrested for DWI regardless of your BAC. DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and also known as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws are strictly enforced and carry a mandatory
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sentence of jail time and a fine, even for first time offenders.
• Children who are younger than eight years of age or less than 4 feet nine inches tall must be secured in an approved car seat.
PET LICENSING / LEASH LAWS In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing license tags and/or on a leash can be impounded. Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Boosters are given one year after the initial vaccination, and pets will need to be vaccinated at one to three year intervals depending on local requirements. Laws regulating the number of pets and exotic animals allowed per household vary from city to city.
• Highway traffic has the right-of-way and
DRIVING IN TEXAS
• $60,000 per accident
The laws that regulate driving differ from state to state. Newcomers should become familiar with all of the laws to assure their safety and be in compliance while driving on the streets and highways. These are a few of the laws that newcomers should know: • The driver and front seat passenger must wear seat belts.
need not yield to entering traffic. • It is legal to turn right on red after coming to a complete stop. • Texas also enforces a mandatory automobile liability insurance law, and if stopped for any reason, proof of liability insurance is required. The insurance must provide: • $30,000 for each injured person
• $25,000 property damage per accident To obtain a copy of Texas Motor Vehicle Laws, write to the General Services Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Box 4087, Austin, TX 78773. To obtain a Texas driver’s license go online to www. txdps.state.tx.us.
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
TEXAS LAW PROHIBITS TEXTING WHILE DRIVING
and a fine between $25 to $99; penalties
The statewide ban on texting and driving
Drivers convicted of texting and driving
went into effect on September 1, 2017.
who causes serious injury or death to others
Drivers can still use phones to talk hands-
face a fine of up to $4,000 and up to one
free, to play music, operate a GPS, report a
year in jail.
can be as much as $200 for repeat offenders.
crime and seek emergency help. Drivers getting a ticket for violating the no-texting law face a misdemeanor charge
TWO STEPS, ONE STICKER VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND INSPECTION The State of Texas transitioned to a “Two Steps, One Sticker” vehicle inspection and registration program in 2015. Vehicles in Texas are issued a blue-bordered registration sticker that serves as a combined proof of registration and inspection with one expiration date. Passing vehicle inspection will be a requirement to renew a registration.
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
Vehicles must be registered within 30 days of relocating to Texas. In Harris County, register a vehicle at the Clear Lake Courthouse Annex Building, 16603 Buccaneer, 281-486-7250. In Galveston County, register a vehicle at the Galveston County Courthouse Annex, 174 Calder Road in League City, 281-316-8710. Registration requirements include the vehicle’s title, proof of liability insurance, drivers license and cash, check, or money order to cover various registration and license fees.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION METRO offers reliable express service to and from the Clear Lake Area. For bus schedules and Park & Ride locations
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
go online to www.ridemetro.org or call METRO at 713-635-4000.
BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL AIRPORT 2800 N Terminal Rd., Houston, TX 77032 281-230-3100 Located in north Houston, Bush Intercontinental offers nonstop or direct service to hundreds of cities throughout the U.S. and around the world. It serves more than 40 million passengers annually, including about 10 million international passengers.
WILLIAM P. HOBBY AIRPORT 7800 Airport Blvd., Houston, TX 77061 713-640-3000 Fifteen minutes north of the Clear Lake Area, Hobby Airport serves more than 10 million domestic passengers each year. International flights to Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean also fly out of Hobby. The 32nd busiest airport in the U.S. for total passengers, Hobby will continue to be a major public airport and corporate aviation center for years to come.
ELLINGTON AIRPORT 510 Ellington Field, Houston, TX 77034 713-847-4200 Commissioned in 1917, Ellington Airport is situated near the NASA/Johnson Space Center. The airport supports U. S. military operations and general aviation tenants. The Houston Airport System received a federal
license (July 2015) that will transform Ellington Airport into a Space Age hub for astronaut training, spacecraft launches and landings. The annual Wings Over Houston Airshow is held each fall at the field. The Lone Star Flight Museum (LSFM) recently moved from Galveston to its new $38 million state-of-the-art home at Ellington Airport. LSFM is recognized as one of the top aviation museums in the United States. The 130,000 square foot facility houses aircraft displays, interactive exhibits, a library, STEM hands-on educational classrooms and labs, as well as the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame.
ELECTRIC POWER Retail Electric Providers (REPs) compete to sell electricity, which may result in lower prices, and added customer services. The Public Utility Commission (PUC) recommends the three “C’s” before selecting a provider: contact, compare, and choose. Allow several days for the order to process. If establishing service for a new home or building, a permit or inspection may be required. Select electricity, natural gas, local phone and long distance, cable or satellite television, and high-speed Internet services at www.HoustonNewcomerConnect.com.
Comcast’s network upgrade to an all-dig-
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ENERGY STAR certified homes use
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less energy than homes built to the Texas
your own convenient two-hour appoint-
residential building code, are third-party
ment window. Also ask about Xfinity
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of Mind At Your Fingertips.
the leading builders in the Houston area build ENERGY STAR certified homes.
WATER AND SEWER Water and sewer services are provided by the city in which you live. For more information on Clear Lake City Water Authority visit www.clcwa.org.
DISTRICTS (MUDS)
CenterPoint Energy’s ENERGY STAR for New Homes Program, is just one of their programs that supports energy-efficiency efforts. As the regulated utility in the Houston-area, CenterPoint Energy owns and maintains the electric delivery system as well as sells natural gas. Visit CenterPointEnergy.com to learn more.
In Texas, MUDs often provide water, sewer and drainage services in newer neighborhoods. MUDs play an important role in the
FORWARDING MAIL To forward mail submit a change of address
region’s ability to develop viable, new neigh-
at
borhoods without services from municipal
change of address request will be processed
water departments. MUD taxes are paid
and you will get an e-mail confirmation.
annually along with your city, county and
Local Post Offices also have free change of
school taxes through a mortgage or directly
address packets with other helpful moving
to the district.
tips.
https://moversguide.usps.com.
Your
CABLE/SATELLITE AND INTERNET Depending on where you live there may be other services available. Television programming is provided by: Comcast, 800-934-6489 www.comcast.com AT&T 855-685-0576 www.att.com DISH Network 888-656-2461 www.dish.com Direct TV 855-802-3473 www.directtv.com
Comcast / XFINITY www.comcast.com/moversedge Get connected to XFINITY – TV, Internet,
Houston, Galveston, Clear Lake, Brazoria, Ft Bend, Waller, Montgomery, Chambers and Liberty Counties.
We offer a full array of same day services.
Online Order Entry REAL TIME Tracking Uniformed Messengers Guaranteed Service
www.lonestardeliveryonline.com
281-935-4048 • Toll Free 877-527-5737 Texans Serving Texans, 24 Hours a Day!
and Voice service made possible by
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
41
R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N CARE-A-VAN (Transportation)................. 713-944-1000 Carmeliters......................... 281-488-1085 Club Emeritus (Social Gatherings)........... 281-474-5430 East Harris Co. Senior Citizen................................. 281-479-4232 Food for Seniors Interfaith Caring Ministries................ 281-332-3881 Health South Rehabilitation Hospital............................... 281-286-1500 Kemah Kronies (50 Up)..... 281-334-2401 Meals on Wheels, Bay Area............................ 281-326-3336 Neighborhood Center Bay Area............................ 281-282-6074 Retired Federal Employees National Association......... 281-326-2494 Senior Friends..................... 281-338-3157 Senior Learning Center..... 281-316-0768 Sheltering Arms - Houston.713-956-1888
SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS NEWSPAPERS Bay Area Citizen ............... 281-378-1920 Galveston Daily News ...... 409-683-5260 Houston Chronicle ........... 713-220-7171 Houston Business Journal .713-688-8811 Houston Press .................... 713-280-2400 Pasadena Citizen ............. 713-477-0221
CLUBS
Harris County Democratic Party.................................... 713-739-7785
Unit 554, League City..... 281-332-8733 Unit 490, Ellington Field.. 281-481-1179
Harris County Republican Party.................................... 713-838-7900
Animal Shelter - SPCA....... 281-339-2086
League of Women Voters.................................. 281-648-0929
Animal Shelter Special Pals........................ 281-559-7387
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS ABWA, League City........... 281-334-2101
Bay Area Personal Watercraft Association..... 832-303-0040
Council of Business Women............................... 281-482-2259
Clear Lake Marina Association......................... 281-334-1511
National Space Society.... 281-486-4747
Texas Association of Single Sailors....................... 713-765-8952
American Legion Auxiliary
Professional Engineers Bayou Chapter.................. 281-474-2640
Auxiliary to Sons of Union Veterans of Civil War......... 281-334-2631 Bay Area Council of Drugs & Alcohol................. 281-280-0800 Big Brothers & Sisters.......... 281-282-6033 Catholic Charities............. 281-282-6076 Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.. 281-488-7676 Convention & Visitors Bureau................................ 281-474-9700
Texas Mariners Cruising Assn..................................... 281-532-0936
TOASTMASTERS
TOPPS.................................. 281-326-6611
Clear Lake.......................... 281-922-4468
USRC Rowing Center........ 281-532-1518
Spaceland......................... 281-326-5834
NEWCOMER SERVICES
Depelchin Children’s Center................................ 281-282-6062
NETWORKING GROUPS
Disabled American Veterans............................. 713-794-3665
Welcome Neighbors Newcomers........................ 281-480-9040
CLACC Toastmasters........ 281-488-7676
Clear Lake Networking..... 281-332-3595
Welcoming Neighbor....... 281-890-8050
League City Chamber of Commerce Bus. Assoc..... 281-338-7339
Houston Newcomer Guides................................ 713-952-1916
SENIOR CITIZEN GROUPS
Crossroads (Community Partnership for Youth)....... 281-282-6030
Ed White Youth Center..... 281-474-2853 Family Service Center........ 713-861-4849/281-282-6025
POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Association of Retired Persons.................. 281-474-5272
Finally Home Pet Rescue................................ 281-557-2344
Bay Area Republican Women’s Club................... 281-480-4789
Bay Area Community Center................................ 281-326-2955
Habitat for Humanity..... 281-286-HOME
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
Houston Bar Assoc............ 713-759-1133
LULAC Council NASA Area......................... 281-482-1172
Bridge, Bay Area ............. 281-488-2149
HOBBIES
Bridge, Clear Lake............. 281-480-1911
Veteran’s Outreach Center................................ 713-523-0884
Garden Club, League City....................... 281-332-9528
American Needlepoint Guild................................... 281-482-4994
CIVIC CLUBS
Garden Club, Nassau Bay.281-335-1031
Assistance League of the Bay Area............................ 281-333-0707
Gem & Mineral Society.... 281-481-1591
Clear Lake City Civic League..................... 281-488-5590 Daughters of the American Revolution........ 281-337-5228 Elks Lodge, Kemah............ 281-334-2322 Galveston Bay Foundation......................... 713-332-3381 Gulf Coast Conservation.. 713-626-4234 Jaycees, Clear Lake/ Pasadena........................... 713-477-2875 Kiwanis Clubs, Clear Lake Area................ 281-480-2246 Literary Advancement..... 281-282-6032 Optimist Club, Clear Lake.281-244-5201 Parents Without Partners.. 281-478-5449 Pilot Club of the Bay Area.281-488-2985 Shriners Arabia Temple..... 713-664-3437 Sierra Club (Club Line)...... 713-895-9309
COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE Child Guidance Center, Houston.............................. 281-282-6062 Crime Stoppers.................. 281-480-8477 Emergency Medical Corps .................. 281-488-0022 Red Cross........................... 281-282-6039 Texas Dept. of Public Safety (DPS)....................... 281-517-1200 United Way Service Center................... 281-282-6000
DEVELOPMENTAL
Mothers of Multiples.......... 281-480-8602
HOMEOWNERS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS Association of Clear Lake.281-333-4177
Clear Creek Gun & Archery Range.................. 281-337-1722 Clear Lake Amateur Radio Club......................... 281-488-2913 Clear Lake Area Ski Club............................... 281-286-9672 Clear Lake Fencing Club..................... 281-474-2853
Bal Harbor, Nassau Bay..... 281-333-5168
Clear Lake Tennis Assoc...281-536-7976
Bay Area Property Management ................... 281-333-4177 (includes Bay Forest, Brook Forest, Brook Glen, Bay Front, University Park, Middlebrook)
Houston Rowing Club....... 281-334-3101
Clear Lake Community Association & Clear Lake Recreation Center................................ 281-488-0360 (includes University Green)
Space City Cycling Club.. 281-332-5901
Lakeview Quilters Guild.... 281-333-2459 Model Rocket Club........... 713-666-5559 Seabrook Sailing Club...... 281-474-5827 Sport Divers of Houston..... 281-338-1611 Texas Ice Stadium (Ice Skating)....................... 281-488-7979
Community Management Specialists .......................... 281-480-2563 (includes Bay Oaks, Bay Point, Brookwood, Northfork, Sterling Knoll)
USSA Sailing Academy..... 281-532-1518
Nassau Bay Homeowners Assoc.................................. 281-333-2570
LION & LIONESS CLUBS
SPORTS
Texas Rock (Climbing) Gym.................................... 281-338-7625
Bay Area Lions................... 281-807-9635
Adult Baseball.................... 281-578-8486
Clear Lake Lions................ 713-263-2637
Adult Basketball................. 281-338-4876
League City Lioness.......... 281-830-8213
Youth Golf (ages 6-17)...... 281-486-7254
League City Lions.............. 281-332-5005
Bay Area Roller Hockey.... 713-472-3711
League City Evening Lions.................................... 281-332-4131
Bay Area Youth Soccer.... 713-455-8890 FFPS (ages 4-18)................. 281-347-5425
LITTLE LEAGUE
Indoor Soccer.................... 281-316-0377
Bayside Little League........ 281-474-9481
Soccer - Division One........ 281-484-4710
League City Parks & Recreation......................... 281-338-4875
YMCA................................. 281-486-9622 Sand Volleyball League (9-17)................................... 281-316-3450
Nasa Area Little League... 281-480-4338
South Shore Juniors........... 281-482-5678
YMCA................................. 281-486-9622
NASA Area Pony League.281-480-8105
Disabilities The Arc of Texas.............. 1-800-252-9729
SWIMMING
The Arc of Texas, Bay Area Arc Chapter...... 281-484-7447
Clear Creek Swim League............................... 281-486-8438
Arc of Texas, Unit #1688 – Special Olympics............... 281-388-1161
Clear Lake Community Association & Clear Lake Recreation Center................................ 281-488-0360
Seabrook............................ 281-474-4524
SCOUTING
SOCIAL CLUBS
Edgar A. Smith Family YMCA..................... 281-480-2605
Bay Area Singles Club Activity Hot Line................. 281-480-2727
Space City Aquatic Team (SCAT)................................. 281-461-7920
Boy Scouts of America..... 281-282-6067
Bay Area Welcome Neighbors Club................. 281-488-2111
Williams Indoor Pool Recreation ........................ 281-486-2626
Bay Area Writers League.. 281-666-4595
YMCA................................. 281-486-9622
Roommates Discovered .. 281-468-5663
ROTARY CLUBS League City....................... 281-332-5634 Space Center.................... 281-333-4077
Boy Scout Shop................. 281-282-6067 Girl Scouts, Bay Area Council.............. 713-659-8111 Girl Scouts, San Jacinto Council............................... 281-282-6077
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I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E L O C AT I O N
TRANSPORTATION
Credit Card
Texas Drivers License Application &
www.creditcards.com • Request a credit card & debit card (ATM) when opening a bank account. • You will need a residential address, phone & place of employment, credit history.
Locations: www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/movingtotexas.htm • Texas has a 90-day grace period. • A written & driving skills test required.
MOVING TIPS
• Credit cards, cash, checks, and money orders.
What to do
• Take your passport, social security
Social Security Number
number, proof of residency, lawful
1-800-772-1213
Information/ Application www.ssa.gov/forms
Physical locations: 8989 Lakes at 610 Drive, 77054 16200 Dillard Drive, 77040 5414 Aldine Mail Road, 77039
presence, status. • Proof of vehicle registry. • Completed application.
BANKING Credit Unions www.findabetterbank.com • Credit unions are owned by members. If your company has a credit union, you can easily set up an account and get a credit card. • Social Security number, a photo ID
THINGS TO KNOW Wait 10 days after your arrival to apply for a social security number. Takes approximately 2 weeks for the card to arrive.
(passport), minimum deposit required.
Banks www.findabetterbank.com • A checking account can be opened individually or jointly. • A debit card will give you immediate access online and at ATMs. • Social Security number, driver’s license, proof of residence, photo ID (passport),
No fee for the application.
pay stub or utility bill and a minimum opening deposit.
Take original or certified copies of immigration documents, passport & biographical information & photo.
44
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
• International banks in the USA include HSBC, Citigroup, Barclays, Deustche Bank and Credit Suisse. An account at one of these banks can usually be opened in the US.
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
HOUSING Apartment
Houston Apartment Association Q&A: www.haaonline.org • Prices for apartments are based on apartment size and number of bedrooms Rates typically include basic utilities (ask for details). • Rental requirements include: a credit & security check. Texas Drivers license, passport, bank statement, proof of employment, and a deposit. • Rental applications may require your credit history, employment history, rental history and criminal history, and disclosure of legal status or proof of legal residency. • You are responsible for your lease for the entire term of your contract. • If you terminate your lease contract early, rent may be accelerated and additional charges can be levied against you. • Get any changes to your lease contract or term in writing. • Be sure to ask about pet deposits. • Apartment locators will help you find an apartment and their services are free.
Leasing a Home • Leasing a home is much like renting an apartment. • You might be expected to take care of the yard on a weekly basis, maintain the property and abide by homeowner regulations.
• You will pay all the utility bills (water, power, trash pickup & cable). • You will need a TX driver’s license, proof of employment, credit & personal references & a deposit consisting of the first & last month’s rent.
Buying a home • You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.
Realtor/Homes for Sale & Lease www.HAR.com • You can check your credit score through your bank. • To purchase a home you will need a good credit score based on your credit history. • Report all of your income on your tax return as mortgage loans require proof of income - typically your IRS return. • You do not need a Realtor to purchase a home, but Realtors are trained to help you with pricing and other legal responsibilities. • Realtors use various sources including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to find homes. • Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.
New Homes/Builders/ Communities www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com Realtors are independent and can help you locate a newly constructed home available from a variety of builders. Builder sales reps. work for the builder. If you are working with a Realtor, you should register your Realtor with the homebuilder when you arrive.
HEALTHCARE
Affordable Care Act www.healthcare.gov • If you are relocating to the U.S. for a job, the HR department will assist you with health insurance for your family. • To shop and compare health insurance visit the Affordable Care Act web page. • You will need your social security number, passport, health history, employer information, and a credit card.
TAXES
State of Texas Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax & property tax only.
Internal Revenue Service Federal income tax for most workers is filed on April 15 of each year. There are numerous rules and regulations for expatriates, the following are resources to get you started. Your employer can also assist you. Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov/
EDUCATION Day Care:
childcarecenter.us • Some centers only care for children until they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5. Other schools offer Kindergarten. • Will need your child’s birth certificate, social security number, passport, application. • Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different times of the day. Ask for referrals.
Public Schools PK-12 Texas Education Association: tea.texas.gov • Required for children 6-18 years of age in USA. • Child’s birth certificate, passport, social security number, transcript, doctor’s statement. • The Houston area has excellent public schools which serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade. • You can research individual school districts, schools, ratings and test scores at the Texas Education Association web site. Elementary school (grade 1 through 5 or 6), Middle school or junior high (up to grade 8 or 9), High school or senior high (up to grade 12).
College Search www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools
Private Schools • HoustonNewcomerGuides.com • Houstonprivateschools.com • Privateschoolreview.com There are a variety of independent and faithbased private schools in the Houston area. • Enrollment is most cases is based on openings in certain grades. • Check with each school for enrollment requirements as they vary from school to school. • International schools offer the International Baccalaureate program and might be better suited for children planning to later attend university outside the US.
IMMIGRATION VISA Most questions are answered on the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration web sites below. Contact your Consulate about your country’s requirements. General How Do I Guides: • www.uscis.gov • www.uscitizenship.info Employment Visa: • www.travel.state.gov • www.uscis.gov Green Card: www.uscis.gov/greencard Permanent Resident: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov
PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.state.tx.uss • Dogs & cats must be vaccinated by 4 months of age followed by booster shots every couple of years. • Pets not wearing license tags and/or leashed can be impounded. • Recommended that you microchip your pet • Must be inspected for certain screwworms between one and five days prior to entering the United State • A licensed veterinarian must complete and sign a veterinary certificate. This certificate should be in English or be accompanied by a version translated in English.
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in this section STAAR STEM/STEAM public schools private schools higher education
4 64 6 C LCE LAERA R L ALKAEK A E RAERAE A N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– F– AFLAL L 2L 021071 7 / W / IW N ITNE TRE R 2 021081 8
EDUCATION When parents consider moving to a new home, one of the most important considerations is the educational opportunities that will be available to their children. The quality of education in the Clear Lake Area is the result of careful planning, commitment and high goals--quality is never an accident.
Parents and students in the Clear Lake area
STAAR
can choose from a wealth of specialized
The
of
receive academic accountability ratings from
programs that help them to develop solid
Academic Readiness (STAAR) measures
the Texas Education Agency and adhere to
skills and cultivate their individual interests.
a child’s performance, as well as academic
the same STAAR test requirements as public
Education is an important issue with Clear
growth, college and career readiness. Results
school districts. Open-enrollment charter
Lake Area residents – especially the STEM
from STAAR calculate annual school and
schools have the flexibility to adapt to the
curriculum.
district performance ratings.
educational needs of individual students
Proximity to NASA has fostered this outlook
All students in grades 3-8 are tested in
where students can achieve more.
on education and residents take great pride
reading and math, with students in specific
charter schools even provide curriculum
in their schools. Classes across all grade
grades tested in science, social studies and
that specializes in a certain field such as the
levels are designed to stimulate talents in the
writing. Grades 3-8 STAAR tests in reading
arts, mathematics or science. Some charter
arts and sciences. These include multilin-
and mathematics, by law, must be linked
schools offer students in grades 9-12 the
gual programs, vocational education, special
from grade to grade and to performance
education, enrichment programs and dual
expectations for the English III end-of-
credit courses.
course assessments.
State
Texas charter schools operate under and of
Texas
Assessments
for a personalized learning environment Select
opportunity to take both high school and college courses at no cost. For more information and complete district and individual school information, visit
school,
At the high school level, the three grad-
educators are “hands-on” in the quality
uation programs are the Minimum High
curriculum they provide students throughout
School Program (MHSP), the Recom-
the bay area. Innovative teaching techniques
mended High School Program (RHSP), and
developed in Clear Lake Area schools have
the Distinguished Achievement Program
STEM EDUCATION
been heralded by educational leaders across
(DAP). End-of-course (EOC) assessments
STEM, (an acronym for science, tech-
the U.S. A national comparison of urban
are mandated. High school students take
nology, engineering and math education) is
schools showed area students score higher
EOC exams as they complete each subject,
an interdisciplinary and applied approach
on tests, drop out less and are more likely to
with the tests counting as 15 percent of the
that is coupled with hands-on, prob-
attend college.
final grade in the courses.
lem-based learning. Advocates of integrated
From
pre-school
to
graduate
www. tea.state.tx.us. Information about STAAR can be found at http://tea.texas. gov/student.assessment/staar/
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
47
E D U C AT I O N
approaches
to
stem
education
believe
teaching stem in a more connected manner, especially in the context of real-world issues, can make stem subjects more relevant to students and teachers. The goal being to increase the number of students who consider a career in a STEM-related field and to improve college readiness. Educators want to include art in STEM making STEAM. Proponents of STEAM see art as a way of offering more diverse learning opportunities, and better access to STEM programs for all types of learners.
Photo courtesy of Clear Creek ISD
Engaging students’ strengths using art activities increases motivation and the probability
Clear Creek ISD is the 29th largest school
equally strong in fine arts and is known for
of stem success.
district in Texas, employs nearly 5,000 staff
top quality athletic programs. Support from
members and spans 103 square miles, 13
community and outstanding parent teacher
municipalities, and two counties (Harris and
association volunteers and booster clubs is
Galveston). Governed by a high performing
exceptional.
According to a recent poll of U.S. CEOs, employers will need 1.6 million new STEM employees by 2019. In 2013, the average stem occupation paid about $80,000 annu-
Board of Trustees, Clear Creek ISD prides itself on involving all stakeholders in making
ally; roughly 1.7 times the average yearly
curriculum, finance, and policy decisions.
U.S. wage.
Dr. Greg Smith, Superintendent, was named
There are several STEM initiatives in Texas to inspire existing and new programs. The Texas science, technology, engineering and mathematics (T-STEM) initiative provides a
foundational
approach
to
Texas Superintendent of the Year in 2012 by the Texas Association of School Boards and the 2013 Superintendent of the Year by the Texas PTA.
CCISD is recognized for superior financial management. The district especially appreciates its business and community partnerships and their substantial contributions to the quality programs and recognized academic achievements. Dickinson Independent School District www.dickinsonisd.org • 281-229-6000
empower
Clear Creek ISD is comprised of 26 elemen-
teachers, inspire students and advance the
tary, 10 intermediate, and 7 high schools.
stem education. The public-private initia-
Each campus is led by a team of experi-
tive of academies, professional development
enced and compassionate administrators,
educational opportunities through the efforts
centers and networks is designed to improve
teachers and support personnel. CCISD
of more than 1,400 administrators, teachers
instruction and academic performance in
is also home to the state’s first Education
and support personnel. The district’s 61
science and mathematics-related subjects at
Village which includes an elementary, inter-
square miles encompass the city of Dick-
secondary schools.
mediate and a high school on one campus.
inson and the unincorporated communities
This PK-12 campus includes shared and
of Bacliff and San Leon as well as a portion
Clear Creek Independent School
multi-use facilities that have been created
of League City, La Marque and Texas City.
www.ccisd.net • 281-284-0000
with a community of learners in mind.
The Dickinson Independent School District offers its 11,000 students a full-range of
Dickinson ISD is a growing district where School
CCISD students outperform their statewide
student enrollment has increased by nearly
District (CCISD) is home to explorers and
peers on all Texas standardized tests and
4,000 students over the past 10 years. Dick-
adventurers and is “Leading the Way in the
college readiness indicators.
inson’s central location and its “small-town”
The
Clear
Creek
Independent
21st Century. “ In addition to its regular educational
atmosphere attract families whose members can easily commute to either the Houston or
Nestled alongside the NASA Johnson Space
programs, the District offers comprehensive,
Center in Houston and the boating waters
award-winning programs in career and tech-
of the Gulf of Mexico, the district proudly
nical education, special education, bilingual
To accommodate the growing student enroll-
serves the educational needs of more than
education, compensatory education and
ment, Dickinson ISD opened the Lobit
41,000 students.
gifted and talented education. The district is
Education Village in August 2016. The
48
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
Galveston areas.
campus features Louis G. Lobit Elementary and Elva C. Lobit Middle School. This new campus design provides many opportunities for students and staff with collaborative learning spaces and a large outdoor courtyard with learning stations. Dickinson ISD voters also approved a $70 bond referendum in May 2016 to build the district’s second junior high school for students in grades 7-8.
UNDERSTANDING TEXAS EDUCATIONAL ASSESSMENTS For those new to the area and to the state, understanding the state educational testing system can be a bit overwhelming. Which tests will your child take and at which grade level will they be administered?
Planning is underway for this new campus which is tentatively scheduled to open in
ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS
August 2018.
The Texas Education Agency (TEA), in collaboration with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) and Texas educators, developed a new assessment system in response to requirements set forth by the 80th and 81st Texas legislatures.
Another innovative program which opened this year is a STEM Academy at Barber Middle School. The academy offers 100 fifth grade students from across Dickinson ISD the opportunity to experience innovative science, technology, engineering and math instruction through their core subject areas. Dickinson ISD students and staff excel in many areas, with consistent achievements noted in local, state and national events and contests for sports, band, choir, dance team, art contests, FFA, Robotics and many more.
The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) system is focused on “increasing post sec-ondary readiness of graduating high school students” and “helping to ensure that Texas students are com-petitive with other students – both nationally and internationally.”
The district participates in the state’s largest UIL category for academic, fine arts and athletic competitions. Friendswood Independent School District www.myfisd.com • 281-482-1267 The FISD School Board was named 2016 Outstanding School Board of the Year in Region IV and is currently being considered for the top honors at the state level. The Friendswood Independent School District was established in 1948 and covers 15 square miles. Fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency, the district’s curriculum emphasizes academic skills, higher academic thinking and cooperative learning
We’ve included brief descriptions of each test from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) website; for more detailed information and any questions, contact TEA’s Student Assessment Division at stu-dent.assessment@tea.state.tx.us or 512-463-9536.
TEXAS ASSESSMENT TESTS STAAR™ Students are tested during their public school career in core subject areas including reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. The number of tests taken each year will vary from two to four, depending on the grade level.
strategies. FISD has six campuses: one k-5 campus,
The STAAR tests for elementary school covers:
one k-3, two 3-5 intermediate campus, one
• Mathematics and reading in grade 3;
6-8 grade junior high and one 9-12 high
• Mathematics, reading and writing in grade 4,
school. UIL participation is high with many state
• Mathematics, reading and science in
grade 5 (Spanish versions are available for those in need) Middle school tests will cover: • Mathematics and reading in grade 6, • Mathematics, reading and writing in grade 7, • Mathematics, reading, social studies and science in grade 8. High school assessments with end-ofcourse (EOC) requirements for graduation include: • Algebra 1, • Biology, • English 1, • English 2 • US History.
STAAR™ ALTERNATE The Texas Education Agency (TEA) developed the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness Al-ternate (STAAR™ Alternate) to meet the federal requirements mandated under the Elementary and Sec-ondary Education Act (ESEA), a federal education law previously known as No Child Left Behind. STAAR Al-ternate is designed for the purpose of assessing students in grades 3–8 and high school that have signifi-cant cognitive disabilities and are receiving special education services. Students in grades 3-11 who are eligible for an alternate assessment based on alternate academic achievement standards will take STARR Alternate.
STAAR™-L STAAR-L is a linguistically accommodated English version of the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) for grades 3–8 and end-of-course (EOC) mathematics, science, and social studies as-sessments. STAAR-L is designed for English language learners (ELLs) who “meet participation requirements for a substantial degree of linguistic accommodation in these subject areas” and is administered as an on-line testing program.
winners in the majority of all athletic
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
49
E D U C AT I O N
Photo courtesy of Lutheran South Academy
programs advancing to the playoffs where many teams reach the top. The District was awarded the 2014, 2010 and 2009 Lone Star Cup, which honors a district for top academic and athletic records, and has continued to be in the top three other years. Friendswood High School was named in the Nation’s Top 1500 high schools
nd eschoorl aLake r P ic m e Acad tary in Clea Elemen
S M A R G O R T WO P CATION ONE LLOL INCLUSION s. FU 12 yrs 6 wks. to n e r d il h c For
• 6 weeks through 12 years • Open 6:30-6:30 M-F • Part and Full Time Programs Year Round • PT, OT and Speech Therapy as well as Music, Spanish, Art and Sign Language • After School Program • Tutorials • Private Kindergarten through 3rd Grade
school &EEDS emic pre N An acad both SPECIAL ildren ch ry a S t D n E e E m N ele SPECIAL and NON
14045 Space Center Blvd. Clear Lake, TX 77062
281-488-0436
www.distinctabilities.com
50
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
by Newsweek Magazine. US News and World Report placed the school in the top 30 comprehensive high schools in Texas. Consequently, the many awards its clubs, organizations, sports, and programs receive make FHS a top contender in the State and Nation. In the Academic Decathlon program FHS has won more state championships than any other high school in the nation. The FHS Band and Choir as well as the Friendswood Junior High Band and Choir have won prestigious competitions at all levels. The Drama Department has won more UIL competitions than any other high school group in the State over the past 10 years. In 1987, members of the FISD School Board implemented a Character Ed program. Since then the Westwood Elementary was named the first State School of Character and a National School of Character. The FISD philosophy is based on active partnerships between parents, the community and the schools, and a commitment to the realization of each and every student’s potential. Friendswood ISD is rated as one of the most effective and efficient school districts in the state with a below average tax rate. The district has earned the highest award for financial management and is recognized by State Comptroller for financial transparency. For information visit fisdk12.net.
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
Photo courtesy of Distinct Abilities
La Porte Independent School District www.lpisd.org • 281-604-7000 La Porte ISD is committed to the needs of more than 7,700 students and their families. Nestled along Galveston Bay, La Porte ISD encompasses 55 square miles in southeast Harris County. The district serves students in the communities of La Porte, Shoreacres and Morgan’s Point as well as small sections of Deer Park and Pasadena. Support from the community helps to give La Porte ISD a special “hometown” feeling in a location just 20 minutes away from the metropolitan Houston area. La Porte ISD has 12 campuses--including one high school, two junior high schools, a sixth grade campus, seven elementary schools and a school of choice—as well as over 1,000 employees. Through a partnership with San Jacinto College, the La Porte ISD/San Jacinto College Center offers additional opportunities to high school dual enrollment students, and the Accelerated College Education (ACE) program allows students to earn their associate degrees along with their high school diplomas. Among the many other quality educational programs and services offered by La Porte ISD are pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, dual language and bilingual education, gifted and talented education, Advanced Placement and Pre-Advanced Placement, special education and career and technical education.
Pasadena Independent School District www1.pasadenaisd.org • 713-740-0000
in high-demand areas like engineering,
DAAP offers a full inclusion classroom
nursing and welding.
with each child receiving an individualized
Pasadena
District
Pasadena ISD students excel in and outside
is molding today’s learners into tomor-
of the classroom. They participate in an
row’s leaders. The district has championed
exceptional fine arts program earning the
innovative educational learning initiatives
district the distinction of being named one
supported by advanced programs and tech-
of the best communities for music educa-
based learning, students tackle a challenging
nology driven resources that foster student
tion. Students compete and excel in music,
academic curriculum in ways that are
success. Through positive community and
band, choir, orchestra, visual arts, theatre
engaging, meaningful, fun, and adaptable to
business support, the district provides a
arts and dance.
a variety of learning styles. The individual-
Independent
School
menu of post-secondary, technical and Pasadena ISD’s exceptional staff members
students for higher education and adaptable
have created an endless cycle of student
workplace environments. Completing the
achievement preparing the students of today
opportunities
that
cycle, many Pasadena ISD alumni make
to be the leaders of tomorrow.
the children to reap the benefits and rewards of working together. Through hands-on
is vital to their personal success. Aside from the academic curriculum, DAAP offers enrichment courses of Music, Spanish, Computer Lab, Art, Sign Language and
Pasadena their home after graduation,
Physical Activity, making this a very well
working and raising their families in the
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
community.
Distinct Abilities 281-488-0436 • www.distinctabilities.com
Pasadena ISD is a large urban district
needs or non-special needs child, this allows
ized attention to each child’s specific needs
prepare
specialized
program. Regardless if the child is a special
rounded program. The goal for DAAP is to offer a personal
Preschool
approach with each family, so every child’s
serving approximately 56,000 students in
(DAAP) is a school where children six
specific needs can be met. The staff, as
67 schools. The district covers portions
weeks through twelve years, can build a
early child educators in a partnership with
of Pasadena, South Houston, Houston
solid foundation in which they can explore
parents, will continue to explore new ways
and Pearland and offers area residents 36
and discover their own “distinct abilities”.
to help children.
employing around 8,000 employees and
Distinct
Abilities
Academic
elementary, 12 middle, 10 intermediate, six high schools, and two schools of choice and two alternative campuses. The district is home to the annual McDonald’s Texas Invitational Basketball Tournament, one of the largest high school tournaments in the country. The tournament has garnered nearly $2 million in proceeds since its inception in 2003, benefiting the Pasadena ISD Education Foundation’s Mini Grant Program.
Securing their future
Today... Tomorrow... Forever...
Students at Pasadena ISD meet challenges head on and engage in rigorous curriculum. The number of
Call Today for a Private Campus Tour 281-464-8299
students
involved in dual credit and Advanced Placement classes continues to grow as part of Pasadena ISD’s commitment to College and Career Readiness. Pasadena graduates have attended some of the top universities in the country like Harvard, Stanford, Princeton and Rice University. The district also offers students opportunities to earn an associate degree, graduate with a diploma, earn college credits, gain professional certification or a license
12555 Ryewater Dr., Houston, TX 77089 281.464.8299
•
www.lutheransouth.org
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
51
E D U C AT I O N
Lutheran South Academy 281-464-8299 • www.lutheransouth.org Lutheran South Academy offers a Christian, college preparatory curriculum to a diversified student body of approximately 900 students in grades PreK3-12th. Over 99% of its graduates continue into post-secondary educational institutions. LSA is accredited in accordance with the Texas Education Agency, AdvancED, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Lutheran South was one of only seven Lutheran schools in the country to be named “Exemplary” for the 2012-2013 school year by the National Lutheran Schools Accredi-
Photo courtesy of Odyssey Academy
tation Commission. and regularly sends athletic teams to district Lutheran South employs only certified teachers, many having Master Degrees or beyond. LSA also offers a licensed before and after school care program for their students.
and state playoff competitions. The athletic program includes a wide range of individual and team sports. There are also opportunities for students to participate in TAPPS competitions in Art, Band, Choir and
LSA is a member of the Texas Association
various academic disciplines. LSA is located
of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS),
off I-45 South near Dixie Farm Road.
ODYSSEY ACADEMY is a multi-campus, open enrollment public charter school with locations in Galveston, League City, and El Lago, Texas - Serving students in Pre-K through High School.
Odyssey Academy www.odyssey-academy.com Charter schools were created to increase the choice of learning opportunities within the public school system. By creating additional educational options for students, law makers believed different and innovative learning methods would be created and used, improving student learning. With these purposes in mind, Odyssey Academy has been educating students in the greater Galveston County area for over 15 years with great success. The school uses four effective approaches that in combination are unique to the school, and set OA apart from other public school programs: • Odyssey Academy offers a full day prekindergarten program for qualifying three and four year old children. There is strong evidence showing that young children who participate in high-quality pre-k programs enter school more ready to learn than their peers. OA believes parents who would like to give their children this advantage should have the opportunity to do so.
Featuring STEAM and Dual Credit / Early College Programs Galveston Campus 2412 61st Street Galveston, Texas 77551 409-750-9289
Bay Area Campus Elementary 2600 Stanley Drive El Lago, Texas 77586 281-326-4555
Call to Register: Galveston Campus: 409-684-2366 Bay Area Campus: 281-545-0590
52
Secondary 201 Houston Avenue League City, Texas 77573 281-316-0001
info@odyssey-academy.com Facebook.com/OdysseyAcademy Twitter.com/OdysseyTweets
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
www.odyssey-academy.com
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
• Odyssey Academy focuses on leadership skills from prekindergarten through high school using FranklinCovey’s Leader in Me and The 7 Habits. These programs teach 21st century leadership and life skills to students and help to create a culture of student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a leader.
• Odyssey Academy is a STEAM school. STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics. Teachers focus on these subjects to help students develop the critical thinking and problem solving skills needed to be successful in the 21st century. • Odyssey Academy offers dual credit and early college programs. Dual credit allows students to earn college credits while still attending high school. Early College is an innovative program that helps students earn an associate degree while simultaneously earning their high school diploma. The OA community believes that all students can learn and achieve their goals when they set their mind to do it. They want to see every student achieve and succeed in education and in life! Galveston Campus 2412 61st Stree, Galveston, Texas 77551 409-750-9289 Bay Area Campus Elementary 2600 Stanley Drive, El Lago, Texas 77586 281-326-4555
committed to being a leader in educational
economy. The new Maritime Technology
excellence, employing top-notch instructors
and Training Center opened in 2016 to
and providing state-of-the-art facilities.
accommodate the growing need for skilled mariners across the region and provide
Students can choose from a number of
students with United States Coast Guard-ap-
options to propel them into a career or
proved
transfer to a four-year university. From
training.
and
internationally-recognized
associate degrees to technical certificates, San Jac is flexible to suit the needs of every
In addition to quality education, San Jac
student and their individual goals.
provides a lively college experience, complete with competitive athletics, renowned arts
San Jacinto College is powerfully connected
and entertainment, and active student
to the business communities throughout
organizations.
Houston. This gives our students big opportunities in the hottest industries, from
Beamer Street • 281-998-6150 - West of
aerospace to healthcare, energy to educa-
I-45, the South Campus serves the Pasadena
tion, IT to international commerce. San Jac
Independent School District and a portion
stays on top of emerging careers and adds
of Clear Creek ISD.
new programs to meet these needs. Recent additions include degrees in Occupational
Lee College, Baytown • 281-425-5611 - Lee
Therapist Assistant and Invasive Cardiovas-
College’s main campus occupies 40 acres
cular Technology.
near downtown Baytown. The school has an enrollment of over 9,000 total students,
San Jac recognizes the importance of mari-
with approximately 5,800 of them enrolled
time careers to the city of Houston and its
full-time.
Secondary 201 Houston Ave., League City, Texas 77573 281-316-0001 Galveston Campus: 409-684-2366 Bay Area Campus: 281-545-0590 info@odyssey-academy.com www.odyssey-academy.com Facebook.com/OdysseyAcademy Twitter.com/OdysseyTweets
HIGHER EDUCATION San Jacinto College 281-998-6150 • www.sanjac.edu Surrounded by monuments of history, industries and maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has been helping students succeed for more than 50 years. With four campuses close to home or work, we serve more than 30,000 students, all of whom benefit from a student support system that maps out a pathway for success. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, San Jacinto College is
COMMUNITY COLLEGE
IN THE NATION BE MORE. DO MORE. GET SAN JAC CERTIFIED. www.sanjac.edu An Equal Opportunity Institution
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
53
E D U C AT I O N
achievement in the professional worlds of business, industry, education and healthcare. For four decades, the university has filled a vital niche in higher education, specializing in junior and senior undergraduate and graduate-level programs. In 2011, the university gained approval from the state to add freshman and sophomore level courses to its roster and welcomed its first freshman class in fall 2014. UHCL continues to expand its degree program offerings to meet the needs of the Photo courtesy of UH Clear Lake
A partnership-oriented, community-minded
University of Houston-Clear Lake 281-283-7600 • www.uhcl.edu
and student-centered university, UH-Clear
University of Houston-Clear Lake represents a dynamic force in modern education, offering undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students a close-knit, academic community, enhanced by a global perspective.
Lake has flourished in the midst of the upper
community and added its third doctoral program a Doctor of Psychology in Health Service
Psychology
(combined
clinical
psychology and school psychology), which will welcome its first cohort in fall 2016.
Gulf Coast’s international petrochemical
UHCL has a student population of more
industry, Texas Medical Center and NASA
than 8,900 students during the fall and spring
Johnson Space Center. UHCL’s more than
semesters, with many of them enrolled in
61,000 alumni pursue diverse opportu-
graduate courses. With more than 80 under-
nities and share distinguished records of
graduate and graduate degree programs, including three doctoral programs, UHCL
HOme Of tHe Hawks
and OtHers LOOking tO sOar. The choice is clear.
encourages students to cultivate talents, strengths and interests that help fulfill career ambitions. Named a Military Friendly® university by Victory Media, UHCL assists more than 500 veteran students reach their educational goals and offers support through its Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Office of Veteran Services. Specific programs such as systems engineering and instructional technology help students develop the necessary skills to thrive in a changing job market. These and other academic programs complement the core disciplines in the Schools of Business, Education, Human Sciences and Humanities, and Science and Computer Engineering. UHCL is committed to numerous exchange partnerships with educational institutions in various countries, including Japan, Mexico,
www.uhcl.edu www.uhcl.edu/pearland
Slovakia, Taiwan and Vietnam. For more information about UHCL, visit www.uhcl. edu or call 281-283-7600.
54
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
New Horizons Computer Learning Centers www.nhhouston.com / 713-552-1414 For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been a leader in IT training. With over 100 locations worldwide, they have grown to become the largest independent training company in the industry. Their career and corporate training solutions help turn ambitious personal and business goals into results. They use varying training methods for virtually every schedule and learning
“
Clear Lake Area has a wealth of higher education resources that provide plenty of opportunity – whether you’re looking for continuing education, customized training, [or] a four-year or graduate degree program....
”
style, along with vendor-approved learning tools and expert instruction. They have trained more than 30 million people to
access their labs anytime and anywhere. The
training quality and customer satisfaction
state-of-the-art, fully-configured live lab envi-
as reported by an independent third-party
ronment provides students hands-on access
learning and quality assurance company,
Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers
to the systems and applications taught in the
Knowledge Advisors. Plus, research shows
an extensive selection of vendor-authorized
classrooms, empowering them to learn on
that New Horizons training yields a 4:1
training and certifications for top tech-
their own schedules.
benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager
make the most of technology, and they feel like they are just getting started.
nology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being an authorized partner ensures that the students have
surveys regarding the improved performance A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons
and productivity of their employees imme-
is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for
diately following New Horizons training.
the highest quality training materials and train on the latest products and technologies available. Courses provided fall into categories like desktop applications, technical training and professional development. Flexible Training Approach Based on Learner Needs - They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy specific needs. Learning methods include Online ANYTIME, on-site training, private classes and Online LIVE. Online Live removes
geographical
boundaries
from
learning by bringing students and instructors together synchronously in a virtual realtime classroom environment. This program provides students all of the benefits of being in a dynamic interactive classroom –
New home. New opportunities. New Horizons is the leading IT training company, providing training in everything from desktop applications, technical and professional development. Whether you want to brush up your skills or transition to a new career, New Horizons will set you on the right course.
enabling students to study from work, home or a New Horizons center. New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based lab solutions as well, allowing students to
New Horizons of Houston | www.nhhouston.com | 713.552.1414
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
55
Places of
WORSHIP Houston is home to diverse religious traditions – a reflection of the international cultural mosaic that makes up the city. The following pages list some of the houses of worship located in Clear Lake Area.
CLEAR LAKE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 16335 El Camino Real Houston, TX 77062 www.clearlakemethodist.org 281-488-5110 Clear Lake United Methodist Church (CLUMC) is a strong, dynamic 3,000 member Church with over 1,200 people weekly in worship and 900 involved in their Christian Education Programs. They provide many opportunities for Christian fellowship and study for people of all ages. The best way to experience these opportunities is to become involved in a small group such as Sunday School class, Bible study, children and youth fellowship or any of the other programs they offer. There is a place for everyone! They are known in the Clear Lake Community as “the Church that never closes.” Besides all of their church programs, they offer many classes (from scouts to ESL) all during the week for the community and neighborhood. It has been estimated that between 5,000 to 10,000 people are in and out of their buildings from Monday through Friday each week. You are truly welcome there!
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ANGLICAN
GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
St. Paul’s Anglican Church................................ 281-480-1414
St. John the Theologian Orthodox............................ 281-554-7223
ASSEMBLY OF GOD
JEWISH
Christ’s Church, Clear Lake.......................... 281-488-1775
Congregation Shaar
Faith Temple, League City....................... 281-332-8474
Jewish Ctr. of CL/Temple Beth Tikvah......................... 281-286-1717
BAPTIST
Hashalom........................... 281-488-5861
Bay Area Baptist................ 281-992-5005
LATTER DAY SAINTS/MORMAN
Bay Area First Baptist......... 281-332-2133
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter
Baybrook Area Baptist...... 281-996-1316
Day Saints........................... 281-488-4406
Bay Forest Baptist.............. 281-488-6158 Clear Lake Baptist............. 281-488-3767
Re-Org. Church of Jesus Christ......................... 281-338-1842
First Baptist Church, Seabrook............................ 281-474-3281
LUTHERAN
Nassau Bay Baptist............ 281-333-3844
Gloria Dei, Nassau Bay..... 281-333-4535
Texas Avenue Baptist........ 281-332-2599
House of Prayer................. 281-488-4439
University Baptist Church................... 281-488-8517
Lakeside Lutheran Church................................ 281-334-3163
CATHOLIC
METHODIST
St. Bernadette.................... 281-486-0337
Abundant Life United Methodist............... 281-286-1515
St. Clare of Assisi................ 281-286-7729 St. Mary’s, League City..... 281-332-3031 St. Paul’s, Nassau Bay....... 281-333-3891
CHRISTIAN Bay Area Christian............ 281-480-5683 Church of Christ, C.L.C..... 281-486-9350 Church of Christ, League City....................... 281-332-1015 Church of Christ, Seabrook............................ 281-532-1038 Clear Lake Chinese Church................ 281-338-1929 Hope Christian Reformed.281-488-0900
Bay Harbour United Methodist............... 281-334-1100 Clear Lake African Methodist Episcopal Church................................ 281-286-2731 Clear Lake United Methodist........................... 281-488-5110 16335 El Camino Real Houston, TX 77062 www.clearlakemethodist.org League City United Methodist............... 281-332-1557 Seabrook United Methodist........................... 281-474-2851
Taylor Lake Christian......... 281-474-2709
EPISCOPAL
NAZARENE Nasa Church of the
Grace Community Church................................ 713-333-3844 Living Word Church of the Bay Area...................... 281-389-9071 Southshore Church, Kemah................................ 281-538-1751
PENTECOSTAL Greater Life Church........(281) 316-6939 Life Tabernacle Clear Lake.......................... 281-280-8227 United Pentecostal Church of Seabrook....................... 281-474-3515
PRESBYTERIAN Bay Area Presbyterian...... 281-280-0713
Bay Area New Life............. 281-461-8350
Nazarene........................... 281-486-9581
St. Christopher, League City....................... 281-332-5553
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Good Shepherd Church.. 281-332-2311
Agape Christian Clear Lake.......................... 281-332-5599
Webster Presbyterian........ 281-332-1251
St. Thomas the Apostle..... 281-333-2384
Clear Lake Presbyterian... 281-488-6731 UCC Faith Covenant........ 281-488-0159
INDEPENDENT FUNDAMENTAL
Clear Creek Community Church.......... 281-338-5433
Westminister Presbyterian....................... 281-486-4597
Clear Lake Bible Church.. 281-488-0037
Gateway
Grace Community............ 281-488-0055
Community Church.......... 281-286-1515
UNITARIAN
Living Way Church............ 281-332-8535
Christ in You........................ 281-474-2491
Bay Area Unitarian Universalist Church............ 281-488-2001
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in this section texas medical center regional hospitals rehabilitation health care news
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HEALTHCARE The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in the Clear Lake Area have grown over the years to meet the healthcare needs of the communities they serve. Patients now have the opportunity to heal closer to home, work and family.
In 2014, Bay Area Regional Medical Center became the newest and most modern hospital complex to open in the Houston Bay Area. With more than 400 physicians and 500 employees, Bay Area Regional is dedicated to providing exceptional health care while making a difference in people’s lives. Bay Area Regional is currently pursuing Level IITrauma Designation and has received Chest Pain Center Accreditation with PCI in 2016. Expansion plans include doubling the amount of private patient rooms and a new Women’s Center with a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit this year. Since 1972, Clear Lake Regional Hospital has served the greater Bay Area by expanding services,
specialties
and
facilities.
The
hospital today has approximately 2,000 staff members and 900 physicians in multiple disciplines. Clear Lake Regional Hospital has the only children’s emergency room, the only dedicated heart hospital and the only Level III trauma departments in the Bay Area. Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital with 293 beds has provided high-quality health care in the Bay Area for almost 30 years. The Memorial Hermann Health System in the Houston area has 16 hospitals
Other hospital systems serving the Bay Area include Houston Methodist St. John Hospital, Houston Methodist San Jacinto in Bay Town, and CHI St. Luke’s Health in Pasadena. If needed, the Texas Medical Center (TMC), one of the largest medical centers in the world and is home to some of the top ranked hospitals and specialists in the U.S., is not too far away. Thousands of physicians have private practices in the Bay Area. There are several referral services in the Clear Lake area to help newcomers find the right doctors.
AREA HOSPITALS Clear Lake Regional Medical Center 281-332-2511 • www.clearlakermc.com Clear Lake Regional Medical Center (CLRMC) is a 595 licensed bed tertiary regional referral hospital offering comprehensive inpatient and outpatient medical, surgical and specialty services. More than 40 medical specialties and associated services are represented at CLRMC, including open-heart surgery and a Level III neonatal intensive care unit. With CLRMC employment exceeding 2,000, the hospital offers a comprehensive range of primary and tertiary services for patients of all ages.
and some 2,900 clinically integrated physicians. A 64-bed hospital opened in Pearland in March 2016.
Emergencies Services For Adults and Children - As one of the largest 24-hour
emergency room ER’s in the region, CLRMC offers Level III emergency care and is the only Pediatric Emergency Room in the area. Pediatric Call-A-Nurse For Children - Call A Nurse for Children is staffed by specially trained registered nurses who use national standards of pediatric care to assist callers. Call A Nurse for Children is open 7 days a week for more information call 281-672KIDS (5437) Cardiovascular Services - The Cardiovascular Programs at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center provide nationally recognized care to thousands of residents in the Bay Area Houston and surrounding communities, allowing patients to avoid the added trauma of traveling many miles outside of their community. The Heart & Vascular Hospital offers private rooms in a beautiful setting. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Women’s Center - The Women’s Center at CLRMC delivers the most babies in Houston’s Bay Area with roughly 4,000 babies born at the center each year. The new state-of-the-art labor and delivery unit provides comprehensive services for women of all ages. The tiniest patients at CLRMC are cared for in the newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), a Level IIII unit that provides high-tech care in soothing surroundings.
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HEALTHCARE
The 42-bed unit is staffed by board certified
Surgical Services - Clear Lake Regional
neonatologists and neonatal nurse practi-
Medical Center performs thousands of
tioners. All NICU and newborn nursery
inpatient, outpatient, and minimally inva-
staff are certified providers of the Neonatal
sive surgeries every year in all specialties.
Resuscitation Program.
The operating and waiting rooms feature
Stroke and Trauma Services - Emergencies happen 24/7 which is why CLRMC provides 24-hour emergency room services. Clear Lake Regional Medical Center is there to help with the best doctors and equipment available in the Bay Area Houston region. Whether diagnostic, non-surgical,
the latest advances in technology. Through automated monitoring, family and friends are able to track loved ones as they progress from pre-op to recovery. Find a board-certified general surgeon at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center by calling 888-842-DOCS (3627).
or surgical in nature, Clear Lake Regional
Other services of Clear Lake Regional
Medical Center’s Brain & Spine Institute
Medical Center include:
provides a full spectrum of neuroscience services, including neurology, neurosurgery,
• The Breast Diagnostic Center offers Full-
and stroke care. Their multidisciplinary
field Digital Mammography, Integrated
approach also includes critical care intensiv-
Computer Assisted Diagnosis (CAD), and
ists, nurse practitioners, and rehabilitation
updated Ultrasound Equipment, Stereo-
therapists. With the addition of an endo-
tactic and Ultrasound guided biopsies and
vascular neurosurgeon, CLRMC is at the
Bone Density Screening. For information
forefront of innovative, minimally invasive
call (281)338-1684.
meetings, comprehensive classes, and community lectures. Learn more by calling 281-331-6141. • The Wound Treatment Center realizes that healing wounds is a complex process involving thorough assessment, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment that will achieve optimum results. The highly skilled team works with each patient in developing an individualized plan of care. The Wound Treatment Center is located at 3 Professional Park Drive, Webster, Texas 77598 / 281-338-3050. For more information on Clear Lake Regional Medical Center call 281-3322511 or visit www.clearlakermc.com. The hospital is located at 500 Medical Center Boulevard, Webster, Texas, 77598. Houston Methodist St. John Hospital 281-523-2000 www.houstonmethodist.org/stjohn
neuroscience, a branch of medicine that encompasses conditions of the brain, back and spine.Houston Newcomers Clear Lake Ad.pdf
• Diabetes
1 2/24/2016 3:25:50 PM
Management
one-on-one
consultations,
Center
offers
small
group
UT Physicians Care you can count on. C
UT Physicians Bayshore Family Practice Center
UT Physicians Bayshore Multispecialty Clinic
11452 Space Center Blvd. Houston, TX 77059 713-486-6200
11476 Space Center Blvd. Houston, TX 77059 713-486-6325
M
Y
CM
• • • •
MY
CY
Counseling Services Family Medicine Internal Medicine Psychiatry
CMY
K
UT Physicians Pediatric Center at Bay Area 17150 El Camino Real Houston, TX 77058 713-486-6425 • • • •
60
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Cardiology & Imaging Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery Ear, Nose & Throat Endocrinology Gastroenterology Hepatology/Liver Oncology Onsite Diagnostic Lab Services Orthopedics Rheumatology Surgery Urology
Behavioral Health General Pediatrics Pediatric Gastroenterology Pediatric Neurology
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
The expertise and advanced treatment options you have come to expect from Houston Methodist – only closer to home. As a Houston Methodist community hospital, St. John is committed to leading medicine by providing advanced medical and surgical care and excellent patient experience and outcomes. Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine - For nearly 30 years, Houston Methodist St. John has been a leading provider of comprehensive Orthopedics and Sports Medicine care (including physical therapy services), in the Bay Area. They are the official health care provider for CCISD Athletics, Dickinson ISD Athletics and Friendswood ISD Athletics. U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks Houston Methodist as a top destination for orthopedic care. The Concussion Center at the hospital employs a personalized approach to diagnose, treat and manage concussions. The Spine Program offers expedited access to a team of world-class spine specialists, as well today’s most advanced imaging, treatment and rehabilitative therapies.
Houston Methodist Neurology Associates - Board-certified, fellowship- trained neurologists specialize in caring for patients with movement disorders, tremors, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, stroke, epilepsy, migraines, neuropathy and other neuromuscular disorders.
Accredited Chest Pain Center and Stroke
technology to provide patients with the
Ready - Houston Methodist St. John
best in modern health care. Visit HPH on
Hospital is an accredited Chest Pain Center,
the web, call or stop by 333 North Texas
recognized for rapid diagnosis and treat-
Avenue, Suite 1000, Webster, Texas 77598.
ment of heart attacks. Additionally, St. John is an accredited Stroke Ready hospital. Houston Methodist St. John Hospital is a
Houston Methodist Ob/Gyn Associates - With a medical director and team of obstetrician gynecologists, Houston Methodist St. John delivers the highest level of care to women through all stages of their lives. A partnership with Texas Children’s Hospital provides families with the Bay Area’s only level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) staffed by neonatologists who provide care at Texas Children’s. An expanded and newly renovated labor and delivery unit debuts in late summer.
fully accredited, full service hospital. To
Houston Methodist Primary Care Group - From simple checkups to more complex concerns, board-certified primary care physicians provide compassionate care, as well as access to the Houston Methodist network of world-class specialists.
surgery, ear, nose, and throat, pain medicine,
UT Physicians 1-888-4UT-DOCS www.UTPhysicians.com
find a Houston Methodist St. John Hospital
UT Physicians, a part of UT Health, is proud
physician, call 281.333.8899.
to announce the opening of the new Dare to CARE program. Dare to CARE is a national
Houston Physicians’ Hospital
vascular screening and disease management
www.houstonphysicianshospital.com
program designed to identify people at risk
The physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital set high standards for innovative healthcare. Expertise and dedication to quality patient care distinguishes Houston Physicians’ Hospital in the Clear Lake Area. HPH specializes in orthopedics, general plastic surgery, urology, podiatry, gynecolog-
for vascular disease. Through the program, UT Physicians will offer ongoing, FREE vascular disease screenings for local residents. FREE screening appointments are available if you are: • Over 40 with diabetes • Over 50 with health risk factors including:
ical surgery, hand surgery and neurosurgery.
high blood pressure, high cholesterol,
Houston
smoker.
Physicians’
Hospital
family history of vascular disease, or are a
pairs
skilled surgeons and nurses with advanced
ONLY CHILDREN’S EMERGENCY ROOM in Houston’s Bay Area
• Over 60
MOST BABIES DELIVERED
in Houston’s Bay Area each year
ONLY DEDICATED HEART HOSPITAL
in Houston’s Bay Area
500 Medical Center Blvd. Webster, Texas 77598
281-332-2511
ClearLakeRMC.com
MOST COMPREHENSIVE ONLY LEVEL 3 ROBOTIC SURGERY TRAUMA Photo courtesy of Bay Area PROGRAM Regional Medical Center DEPARTMENT
ONLY MINIMALLY INVASIVE BRAIN AND SPINE PROGRAM
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
61
HEALTHCARE
To schedule your FREE appointment, call (713) 486-DARE (3273) Or visit www. UTPhyscians.com for more information. During the 20-minute appointment participants will receive non-invasive tests for Carotid Artery Disease, Abdominal Aneurysm
Disease
and
Peripheral
Vascular
Disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. More than half of all Americans will die from complications of atherosclerosis, the root cause of cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately heart and vascular disease
The best and most common ways to manage your vascular wellness include common lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding smoking, dietary management, and exercising regularly. Take charge of your heart and vascular health. Call to schedule your free Dare to CARE vascular screening appointment. Early treatment and prevention are key to living a healthier and enjoyable life! Call today! (713) 486-DARE (3273)
care when your child is sick or has a chronic medical problem.
The University of Texas Medical Branch UTMB Health Pediatrics 888-UTMB-KID • 409-772-3695 www.utmbkid.org
Neonatal Specialists - Providing routine and complex newborn care in the newborn Nursery and the Level III Infant Special Care Unit, these nurseries currently welcome more than 6,000 new babies each year.
does not always have symptoms, and therefore many people are not aware they have a problem until it is too late. If caught early, heart and vascular disease can be treated to prevent serious problems, such as heart attack, stroke, amputations, or even death. Results will be reviewed by one of UT Physicians board certified vascular specialists and will be shared with the patient’s primary care doctor for any follow up conversations and treatment plan decisions.
Comprehensive care for children in Galveston and the Bay Area - The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) offers comprehensive children’s services in convenient locations throughout the community from primary to specialty care, inpatient care and after-hours urgent care. Pediatric Primary Care - They provide general pediatric care from routine check-ups and childhood immunizations to
PEDIATRIC SPECIALTY CARE
FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS.
When you choose UTMB Health for pediatric care, your child has access to 125 years of trusted expertise and a personalized approach to healthcare you can trust. With convenient locations in League City and Galveston Island, UTMB is always ready to welcome you.
For appointments call (888) 886-2543. Visit UTMBKID.org for additional information.
utmbkid.org | facebook.com/utmbpediatrics
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
Pediatric Specialty Care - Some chronic medical issues may need extra attention. Their pediatric specialists provide care in a family centered setting with education and support. They offer Saturday appointments at their Specialty Care Center at Bay Colony in League City.
Inpatient and Critical Care - UTMB Children’s Hospital in Galveston offers stateof-the-art clinical care in a serene island themed atmosphere designed with healing and fun in mind. Their multidisciplinary team of experts provides top-tier care of every child in their care. After-Hours Pediatric Urgent Care Because kids don’t get sick on a schedule, UTMB Health has pediatricians available after hours in League City and Galveston. UTMB Working together to work wonders. The University of Texas Medical Branch UTMB Health 800-917-8906 www.doctors.utmbhealth.com More specialists. More advances. More wonders. - The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) League City Campus offers you convenient access to the finest inpatient and outpatient care. This means all the wonders of academic medicine close to home – from inpatient medical/surgical care for patients requiring overnight stays… to beautiful and spacious birthing suites where mothers and their healthy newborns receive specialized care… to outstanding emergency services. Patients requiring overnight stays will receive care in UTMB’s newest hospital designed using evidence-based principles with significant input from patients, nursing staff and physicians to enhance patient well-being and improve outcomes.
Architecture, décor and design all reflect a healing environment and a hospital that cares for the patient’s mind, body and spirit. All rooms are private with oversized restrooms and large windows, and are divided into distinct zones for staff, patients and families. With free and convenient parking, patients can receive outpatient services without travelling far from home, including: • 24-hour Emergency Department and complete diagnostics lab • Advanced imaging • After-hours urgent care • Breast health services • Cancer center services • Cardiac rehab • Endoscopy • Pelvic health services • Retail pharmacy • Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, PT/OT (open 6 days per week) • Surgical services • Vascular care • Women’s health services
Open your eyes to new possibilities with the UTMB Health comprehensive network of care. Find a UTMB physician near you at www.doctors.utmbhealth.com. Bay Area Heart Cardiovascular Center 832-905-5940 • www.bayareaheart.com What is Heart Disease? - Cardiovascular disease refers to any disease that affects the cardiovascular system, principally cardiac disease, vascular diseases of the brain and kidney, and peripheral arterial disease. The causes of cardiovascular disease are diverse but atherosclerosis and hypertension are the most common. In addition, with aging come a number of physiological and morphological changes that alter cardiovascular function and lead to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, even in healthy asymptomatic individuals At Bay Area Heart we strive to provide the highest level and quality of cardiac care available. This requires two commitments. The first commitment is to treat the patient as an individual, and the second is to strive
for continuous improvement in the technical delivery of care in this increasingly complex field. Bay Area Heart is a team of professionals whose goal is the preservation of good health. Our physicians are thoroughly trained in all aspects of modern cardiology, including diagnostic and therapeutic areas such as cardiac catheterization, interventional cardiology, peripheral vascular, and pacemaker therapy. Our cardiologists are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, in the fields of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional Therapeutics and Electrophysiology.
HEALTHCARE SERVICE PROVIDERS Brookdale® Clear Lake 281-316-9055 • www.brookdale.com Everyone has unique dreams and passions that continue to grow throughout life. Brookdale Clear Lake works to create a place that goes well beyond physical
At Bay Area Heart we strive to provide the highest level and quality of cardiac care available. This requires two commitments. The first is to treat the patient as an individual and the second is to strive for continuous improvement in the technical delivery of care in this increasingly complex field. Bay Area Heart is a team of professionals whose goal is the preservation of good health. Our physicians are thoroughly trained in all aspects of modern cardiology including diagnostic and therapeutic areas such as cardiac catheterization, interventional cardiology, peripheral vascular, and pacemaker therapy. Our cardiologists are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in the fields of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional Therapeutics and Electrophysiology.
450 Blossom Suite D Webster, TX 77598
832-905-5940 bayareaheart.com HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
63
HEALTHCARE
support to a socially connected community
Area Boulevard.
with opportunities. Brookdale Clear Lake
two blocks from Clear Lake Medical Center
wants active seniors to live life to the fullest.
and within minutes of shopping, dining, the
Formerly called The Terrace, Brookdale Clear Lake offers Independent Living services for today’s active seniors. Brookdale offers apartment style living with all the conveniences of a home without the work and have a variety of floor plans with full kitchens, dining areas, built-in book shelving and walk-in closets. Brookdale Clear Lake offers expansive dining choices seven days a week, including restaurant-style dining and their E.A.T. American Bistro. Facilities include a movie
The community is just
Johnson Space Center and the Clear Lake recreational area. To learn more about the community and the services, programs and amenities their residents experience every day, call to set up a visit. Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids 281-332-4575 * www.bayareaaudiology.com Since 1973, providing trusted advice, expert service and compassionate care that helps fellow citizens to truly experience the joy of hearing.
theater, community lounge, private dining
Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids was
areas, beauty salon, library and commu-
established 1973 and our close affiliation
nity room. Other amenities include a gated entry, pool, hot tub area, putting green, large
A REVOLUTIONARY HEARING AId THAT
rose garden, koi pond and waterfall.
with Clear Lake Medical Ear-Nose-Throat provides us the unique opportunity to offer the highest quality hearing aids and hearing
CAN HEAR LIKE YOUR EARS dO.
Brookdale Clear Lake is located in Webster, Texas, in the heart of Clear Lake City. It is
Lyric, the world’s first and only 100% invisible, 24/7 wearable, showerproof, for-months-at-a-time* hearing device can.
one block east of the Gulf Freeway on Bay
Lyric’s unique design and placement works with your ear’s anatomy to deliver exceptional sound quality
care to Webster Texas, Bay Area Texas, and the surrounding communities. We make it our goal to provide the best service and follow-up care to all of our patients. We
A100% REVOLUTIONARY HEARING AId THAT invisible
are committed to providing you with excep• Lyric uses your outer ear to naturally direct sound into your ear canal; no need for multiple settings or complicated programs • tional hearing solutions; allowing you to • 100% invisible, so you enjoy all the benefits of better hearing without anyone knowing you’re using a hearing device • enjoy the benefits of optimal hearing. We • Lyric is designed to remain in your ear canal for months at a time * •Lyric, the world’s first and only 100% invisible, 24/7 wearable, showerproof, for-months-at-a-time hearing device can. • Its proprietary battery is designed to last for months offer state of the art technology including Lyric’s unique design and placement works with your ear’s • Lyric has a programmable sound processing system designed to work • anatomy to deliver exceptional sound quality millimeters from the eardrum
Clear, natural CAN HEARsound LIKE YOUR EARS dO. No daily hassles No batteries to change
The contact lens for your ear.
Resound, Phonak, Widex and Lyric the
• Lyric uses your outer ear to naturally direct sound into your ear canal;
• Wear exercising, showering** and sleeping with no daily hassles no need for multiple settings or complicated programs world’s first and only 100% invisible • 100% invisible, so you enjoy all the benefits of better hearing without • Improved directionality and localization means better ability to tell where sounds are coming from Lyric is the world´s only 100%• anyone knowing you’re using a hearing device Lyric is designed to remain in your ear canal for months at a time device that delivers natural sound. • Reduces feedback (whistling sound) invisible, extended-wear hearing • Its proprietary battery is designed to last for months • Reduces wind noises Lyric has a programmable sound processing system designed to work device you can wear 24/7 for • millimeters from the eardrum • Lyric requires no anesthesia or surgery Dr. Chanda J. Abbott, CCC-A, and sleeping with no daily hassles • Wear exercising, showering months at a time.* • Lets you easily use listening devices like a telephone, stethoscope • Improved directionality and localization means better ability to tell or headphones where sounds are coming from received her B.S. from Eastern New **
• Reduces feedback (whistling sound) • Reduces wind noises • Lyric requires no anesthesia or surgery • Lets you easily use listening devices like a telephone, stethoscope or headphones
hearing
FAAA, Mexico
University and her Masters and Doctor of
www.lyrichearing.com
Risk-Free Trial • Free Lyric Consultation CALL US FOR ALL OF YOUR HEARING NEEDS Dr. Chanda J. Abbott, CCC-A, FAAA †
Audiology from Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center. She is a member of www.lyrichearing.com the American Academy of Audiology, Texas
Bay Area Audiology Risk-Free 30-Day Trial†EXPERIENCE • Free Lyric Consultation LYRIC HEARING FOR YOURSELF Academy of Audiology, and the American Risk-Free Trial† • Free Lyric Consultation and Hearing Aids
Call us today!
to make appointment today Bay Area Audiology 17099 TexasCall Avenue, Suitean 200 and Hearing Aids Webster, TX 77598 17099Texas Texas Avenue, Avenue, Suite 200 extension 17099 301
281-336-0090
281-724-5280 x308
Webster, TX 77598
Dr. Chanda J. Abbott, CCC-A, FAAA
Speech, Language, and Hearing Association.
EXPERIENCE LYRIC HEARING FOR YOURSELF Call us today!
Dr. Abbott has been a practicing Audiologist 281-336-0090
TX 77598 Your Hearing is Precious…don’t trust it to anyone but an accredited hearingWebster, professional… extension 301 in Texas for 17 years. Her specialization is Dr. Abbott received her Doctor of Audiology and Masters of Audiology degrees from Texas Tech Your University Hearing is Precious…don’t trust it to anyone but an accredited hearing professional… Health Center and a BSher in Communication from Eastern New Mexico She isdegrees Dr.Sciences Abbott received Doctor of Disorders Audiology and Masters ofUniversity. Audiology from Dr. Abbott received her Doctor of Audiology and Masters of Audiologyaids, degrees from Texas Tech Universityphysics, mechanics, hearing combining Health Sciences Center and a BS in Communication Disorders from Eastern New Mexico University. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, Texas Academy of Audiology and the American Speech TexasHearing TechAssociation. University Center and a BS in years. Communication a member of theDisorders American Academy of Audiology, Texas Academy of Audiology and the American Speech Language She Health has been aSciences practicing audiologist in Texas for 12 and biology to help people hear. Language Hearing Association. She has been a practicing audiologist in Texas for 12 years.
from Eastern Mexico University. a member of the American The patients of Bay AreaNew Audiology and Hearing Aids trustShe theirishearing to us because of the high Thelevel patientsAcademy of Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids trust their hearing to us because of the high level of attention we provide. Our competitive pricing is strengthened by our expertise and years of education of attention we provide. Our competitive pricing is strengthened by our expertise and years of education of Audiology, Texas Academy of Audiology and the American Speech Language in the instrument sciences. We offer the best products available and excellent, caring service. Take in the hearing instrument sciences. We offer the best products available and excellent, caring service. hearing Take Dr. Chanda J. Abbott Dr. Abbott makes every effort Chanda J.J.Abbott this opportunity to find out if help is available. Dr.Dr. Chanda Abbottthis opportunity to find out if help is available. CCC-A, FAAA CCC-A, FAAA
CCC-A, FAAA
Hearing Association. She has been a practicing audiologist in Texas for 16 years.
*Individual patient needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions.**Lyric is water resistant, not waterproof, and should not be completely submerged underwater. †Professional fees may apply. Annual subscription begins the first day of trial. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. See a Lyric Provider to determine if Lyric is right for you. Lyric, Distributed by Phonak, LLC ©2013 All rights reserved MS025810 NEW901
*Lyric can be worn up to 120 days. Individual patient needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions. **Professional fees may apply. Annual subscription begins the first day of trial. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. See a Lyric Provider to determine if Lyric is right for you. Lyric, Distributed by Phonak, LLC ©2015. All rights reserved. MS047640 937
64
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
to ensure that
her patients receive the best hearing care
*Individual patient needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions.**Lyric is water resistant, not waterproof, and should not be completely submerged underwater. †Professional fees may apply. Annual subscription begins the first day of trial. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. See a Lyric Provider to determine if Lyric is right for you. Lyric, Distributed by Phonak, LLC ©2013 All rights reserved MS025810 NEW901
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
possible, and are able to continue enjoying their daily activities.
Dr. Lindsay Tilger attended Baylor University where she obtained her Bachelors of Science in Biology Summa Cum Laude. In addition to being inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and The Mortar Board Society, she received the Outstanding Senior Biology Award.
She attended Baylor College of
Dentistry for her Doctorate of Dental Surgery. She then attended an advanced general practice residency at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Dr. Tasha Edwards, FAAA, is a Louisiana native. She graduated from Southern University in Baton Rouge, La. with a Bachelors of Science degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology. She obtained her Doctorate of Audiology degree from Lamar University in Beaumont Texas. Dr. Edwards has over 7 years of clinical experience and is a fellow of the American Academy of Audiology. She specializes in diagnostic audiology, hearing aid evaluations and hearing aid fittings. She enjoys working with all populations and providing specialized care for their individual needs. Dr. Edwards is committed to going the extra mile to help improve the quality of life for those with hearing impairments, through the use of hearing aids and other assistive listening devices. Tigler Center for Dentists 281-480-6600 www.tilgercenter4dentistry.com The team at Tilger Center for Dentistry focus on relationship centered dental care. As a patient you will be treated as friend and family and not a patient number. Tilger Center for Dentistry offer an array of services in general, family, cosmetic and implant dentistry. They offer a variety of orthodontic services for straightening teeth including the popular, Invisalign. They also offer oral surgery and are one of the only general dentistry offices in the area that offers IV sedation. With over 30 years of sedation experience they offer their patients the assurance of a relaxing and pleasant dental visit.
Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Grad-
While
uate. Dr. Tilger received his anesthesia
surgical training as well as anesthesia/IV
(IV sedation) training from the University
sedation training.
of Southern California and is certified to perform oral and IV sedation.
there,
she
obtained
advanced
She worked closely with other physicians on medically compromised patients
He received his Advanced Surgical and
including cancer and heart patients.
Prosthetic Implant training from the Inter-
Lindsay
nationally-renowned Misch International
of dental health for a patient’s overall
Implant Institute and is a fellow of the
health. She obtains hundreds of hours of
International Congress of Oral Implantol-
continuing education every year. She has
ogists. Having practiced for over 30 years,
completed an advanced clinical residency
Dr. Tilger has extensive experience and
in oral implantology at the Advanced
expertise in most areas of dentistry.
Dental Implant Institute.
understands
the
Dr.
importance
His generation put a man on the moon. You know he has ideas worth hearing. At Brookdale, we’re looking for interesting seniors — people who’ve lived life to the fullest and are hungry for more. Call us, and find out how we’re Bringing New Life to Senior LivingTM.
For more information, call (281) 316-9055.
Brookdale Clear Lake Independent Living 780 West Bay Area Boulevard Webster, TX 77598 ©2016 Brookdale Senior Living, Inc. All rights reserved. BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING and BRINGING NEW LIFE TO SENIOR LIVING are the registered trademarks of Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.
Dr. Larry Tilger graduated from the Baylor College of Dentistry where he was an
Bringing New Life to Senior Living™
brookdale.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
65
in this section aerospace bio-technology boating & tourism area chambers
6 66 6 C LCE LAERA R L ALKAEK A E RAERAE A N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– F– AFLAL L 2L 021071 7 / W / IW N ITNE TRE R 2 021081 8
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY The quality of life in the Clear Lake Bay Area proves there is strength in diversity. The areas highly educated and youthful population are employed by some of the largest national and international corporations in a wide range of industries. From exploring the wonders of earth to the mysteries of space and science, you will find strong partnerships here to bring your ideas to life.
Supporting both the public and private
Aerospace also adds an international busi-
NASA / JSC is at the center of ongoing
aerospace ventures are diverse sectors of
ness culture to the Clear Lake area because
missions to and from the International Space
manufacturing,
service
it draws astronauts and aerospace experts
Station (ISS). The ISS holds the record for
companies. While the NASA / Johnson
from around the world. Most all of the U.S.
the longest continuing orbit of the Earth
Space Center employs thousands of area
astronauts and support personnel maintain
as well as being the largest space vehicle to
residents, the area’s economy is also fueled
homes close to NASA / JSC and many of
do so. The United States, Russia, Europe,
the international crew also reside close by.
Japan and Canada participate in missions
technology
and
by tourism and boating, biotechnology, health care and the petrochemical industry.
that conduct experiments and research and
Support services and outgrowth businesses
The NASA / Johnson Space Center is the
such as banking and finance, education, real
heart of the space program in the U.S. Oper-
estate and retail employ a large number of workers in a wide variety of jobs.
ations include the management of space programs, astronaut training, technological research, development and implementation,
AEROSPACE Almost all major aerospace companies in the U. S. have a presence in the Clear Lake area, from The Boeing Company
biomedical research and space medicine. These programs are driven by services in information technology, safety and quality
document living aboard the ISS. NASA / JSC is partnering with private U. S. companies like SpaceX and Orbital Sciences to continue the ISS program well into the future. The joint venture between NASA and private companies is fueling job growth in the Clear Lake area and is further strengthening the presence of the aerospace
and United Space Alliance to Jacobs Tech-
assurance, life sciences, and advanced and
nology. This represents the second largest
precision manufacturing. All are skills and
concentration
companies
technologies that easily transfer within
Listings of
aerospace and engineering
outside of California with more than 22,000
multiple commercial markets, like defense,
companies
are
people working in aerospace firms and
homeland security, oil & gas and alternative
bayareahouston.com/ Home/ and at www.
related industries.
energy.
nasa.gov/centers.
of
aerospace
industry.
available
at
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
www.
67
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
At the NASA/Johnson Space Center visitors can get a close-up look of the engineering that goes into moon rovers, watch films of historic launches and landings, and tour Mission Control and the new International Plaza. An incredible display of once-used space vehicles rests on the large grassy front lawn. Space Center Houston is another great entertainment venue that showcases America’s accomplishments in space, and features interactive exhibits that entertain, educate, and inspire. NASA/Johnson Space Center Photo courtesy of GHCVB
BIOTECHNOLOGY
goals of the organization are to encourage
NASA - Johnson Space Center bioas-
entrepreneurship, help emerging compa-
tronautics program began in 2003, and
nies secure funding, and maintain a support
is responsible for the huge growth in
network of experienced advisors.
the biotechnology field. Some of
the
and Space Center Houston rank among the top vacation destinations in the Houston area. The Armand Bayou Nature Center is America’s largest urban wildlife preserve, encompassing three ecosystems that protect
distinguished participants include Wyle
BOATING
Laboratories,
Space
“The Boating Capital of Texas,” is a 1,728-
Operations, Barrios Technology, Bastion
acre natural inlet that provides harborage
Kemah is a must see for visitors and
Technologies, Enterprise Advisory Services
for the third largest number of privately
locals wanting sun, delicious food, people
Inc. (EASI), MEI Technologies Inc., and
owned boats in the nation. Clear Lake’s
watching and panoramic bay views. The
the University of Texas Medical Branch at
proximity to Houston and the Gulf of
Kemah Boardwalk is a popular entertain-
Galveston.
Mexico combined with the shoreline access
ment venue with a colorful carousel, a
assure the continued growth of the boating
roller coaster and fountain on its bustling
industry and other waterfront endeavors.
waterfront plaza. A variety of interesting
Lockheed
Martin
The pioneering field has brought over $300 million to the area and it is expected to
more than 360 animal species.
shops, galleries and restaurants surround the
generate almost $1 billon over ten years.
Some 19 marinas with approximately 7,000
Approximately 2,900 people are employed
boat slips line Clear Lake where powerboats,
by biotechnology companies, which are
sailboats, yachts and fishing boats dock. Due
Webster and League City are also favorite
concentrated in the Clear Lake Area. These
to the area’s natural resources, water sports
spots for visitors and both are just minutes
jobs account for 15 percent of the biotech
have become a primary industry.
away. Eclectic shops and wonderful restau-
positions in Houston. Affiliated companies are listed at www.biohouston.org.
Boardwalk’s main hotel.
rants that dot the small cities and towns The boating industry accounts for about
encourage vacationers to check out all of the
10% of gross sales in the Clear Lake Area,
Clear Lake Area.
Business initiatives have emerged from the
with retail boat sales being the largest
blending of traditional engineering disci-
contributor. The commercial waterfront
PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRY
plines and the medical community, and
areas continue to add docking facilities,
The region’s economy is directly tied to
are funded by traditional sources, venture
restaurants and retail shops. The concept
petrochemicals; the Clear Lake Area boasts
capital
collaboration
of “boat and breakfast” lodging is also
the nation’s largest concentration of petro-
between biotechnical companies and NASA
springing up on the lake and encourages
chemical producers. Major employers are
researchers is focused on the development
boaters from other areas to explore Clear
LyondellBasell, Celanese, Albemarle Corp.,
of new pharmaceuticals, and the Interna-
Lake and the surrounding townships.
Dixie Chemical, and Azko Nobel. Growth
and
grants.
The
tional Space Station is utilized as a research platform.
TOURISM
in the petrochemical industry has remained steady for the past 25 years.
In excess of $4.3 million is spent on The BioHouston initiative was formed to
tourism in the immediate Clear Lake area.
The Bayport Industrial District is home
promote the bioscience industry and to
A growing destination spot for local and
to over 70 companies. Some of the larger
create an environment that will bolster the
international vacationers as well as business
companies
research in life sciences technology. The
travelers.
ExxonMobil, Union Carbide, and BP
68
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8
include
Phillips
Petroleum,
Amoco. One of the largest private industrial
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS
quality of life for the almost 800,000 people
facilities in the nation, the facility covers
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
who live and work in the area.
Since its founding in 1976, the Bay Area
BAHEP members are encouraged to become
10,000 acres and employs more than 8,700 workers.
Houston Economic Partnership has evolved
actively involved in the organization’s
A variety of specialty chemicals, polymers
into the regional leader in economic devel-
initiatives by attending and participating
and plastics that go into the production of
opment, recognized for its ability to address
in monthly membership meetings, special
household goods and automotive prod-
issues and promote business as well as being
events and one or more of a dozen BAHEP
ucts are produced at plants in the area.
trusted to create alliances. It is member
committees in order to obtain the maximum
Petrochemical companies are also directly
driven, with members who are key senior
benefit on their investment.
responsible for the addition of many jobs
leaders in business, industry, education, and
in related fields and support industries.
local government across the region, which
Estimated annual income from the petro-
roughly extends from the Houston Ship
chemical companies is $829 million, and
Channel to the Pearland regional area and
accounts for $531 million in personal
from the Gulfgate area to Galveston.
region and the ability to back up that
income to area residents.
The strength of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership lies in its commitment to the people and businesses of the commitment with action that produces
The organization closely adheres to its Stra-
positive results. BAHEP reflects 40 years
OUTGROWTH INDUSTRIES
tegic Plan. This plan guides BAHEP as it
of expertise upon which local, regional,
Aviation, banking and finance, education,
continues to pursue economic development
state and national leaders have come to
real estate, retail and health care professions
opportunities to recruit, retain, expand and
rely. William A. Staples, Ph.D., president,
are only a few of the outgrowth industries
create businesses and jobs that are compat-
University of Houston Clear Lake, states,
that support the four primary Clear Lake
ible with the core cluster industries, while
“Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Area industries.
also building new industry clusters. Its focus
has the unique ability to bring together a
is on regional collaboration and regional
true cross-section of the area’s business
actions that lead to prosperity and a high
community to advance the development
Banks, credit unions and mortgage companies continue to expand their financial services to residents and small businesses. Consequently, the financial sector has become a significant source of employment. Schools, colleges and universities are also expanding
to
accommodate
a
greater
demand and higher standards in education. As more and more people pursue advanced degrees, educational institutions, like the University of Houston at Clear Lake, are responding by offering more classes while enhancing their curriculum. These institutions partner with business, industry and government to create and train for new technologies and business practices. There is also a demand for health care professionals. Several excellent hospitals and medical centers in the immediate area employ about 3,200 people. With the Texas Medical Center in close proximity there is a never-ending demand for experienced skilled workers and professionals from the many different disciplines within the health care industry.
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
and growth of our region. BAHEP creates
time in the fantastic community that is the
They also strive to form beneficial part-
win-win partnerships with business, govern-
Clear Lake Area.
nerships with other organizations, which will also benefit the goals and objectives
ment, and educational organizations. The diversity of BAHEP’s membership speaks to its ability to attract and retain businesses, which are recognized leaders in our community.” U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady (R-TX) added, “The Bay Area group does an amazing job. We see them in the halls of Congress pushing the right issues for the right reasons. They’re such an important part of our community and, more importantly, an important part of our whole region.” BAHEP’s municipal members are Clear Lake Shores, Dickinson, El Lago, Friendswood, Houston, Kemah, La Porte, League City, Morgan’s Point, Nassau Bay, Pasadena, Seabrook, Taylor Lake Village, and Webster, as well as Galveston County, Harris County, the Houston Airport System and the Port of Houston Authority.
Looking to the future, the Clear Lake Area
of the membership, such as Bay Area
Chamber has a thriving Young Professionals
Economic Partnership, Bay Area Transpor-
program that is designed to cultivate the
tation, Greater Houston Partnership, City of
next generation of leaders for the Clear
League City, ‘Galveston County, Galveston
Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and our
Economic Development Partnership and
Bay Area Houston community. The goal
the League City Downtown Association.
is to energize, engage and empower young
Through these partnerships they are able to
professionals throughout the Clear Lake
open networking possibilities which would
Area.
benefit the membership at large.
The mission of the Clear Lake Area
Communication is the key to success in
Chamber of Commerce is “Champions for
messaging, whether it is to your neighbor
Business Success & Quality of Life in our
next door or the business across the street.
Community.” For more information call
Creating commerce is a part of building
281-488-7676 or visit www.clearlakearea.
a strong economic base, which all busi-
com
nesses benefit from when working together. Providing communication platforms with
League City Regional Chamber of Commerce
reach and purpose enable the membership to do this whether through their on-line B2B
A member driven enterprise is a business or group, which is managed and administrated
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce The
Clear
Lake
Area
Chamber
by the membership to meet the needs of the of
Commerce, serving Bay Area Houston since 1962, is one of the most active and
business community it serves. Many strive for this to be the goal or objective in their plans to meet the needs of the membership,
magazine Momentum or their weekly digital newsletter Tell-u-Gram or their website at ww.leaguecitychamber.com. Through these means, they are able to help their members tell their story to a broad base of interested people, who would be interested in their
but few fail to meet this high bar.
products or services. All their platforms
Members,
The League City Regional Chamber of
information produced and provided by the
Committee Chairmen, volunteers and the
Commerce works each day with this in
membership for their membership.
Chamber staff wear a variety of “hats”
mind. It does this through interaction
in their efforts to stimulate and retain the
with its membership and Board of Direc-
business community, attract new business,
tors to identify critical business needs in
maintain a high quality of life for residents
the
and appeal to visitors and tourists.
it is League City, Webster, Nassau Bay,
aggressive volunteer organizations in the community.
Chamber
Board
communities
they
serve.
are membership driven with articles and
Whether
Seabrook, Kemah, Dickinson or Clear
Education is the final part of being a membership driven organization and they do this through workshops, business breakfast seminars, lunch and learn seminars, events and programs provided by their partnership with the University of Houston
The Clear Lake Area Chamber recog-
Lake Shores they listen and then produce
nizes the defined “Clear Lake Area” as its
solutions.
Small Business Development Center. All at
includes Clear Lake City, Clear Lake Shores,
They do this through committees formed
looking for an organization that can help
El Lago, Kemah, League City, Nassau Bay,
to precisely to address those needs and then
grow your business come, see what they are
Seabrook, Taylor Lake Village, Webster and
inspire members to take leadership roles
all about today. This synopsis only scratches
parts of Houston and Pasadena.
in facilitating actions to meet the desired
the surface of they can offer you.
service territory. This composite community
no charge to their members. So, if you are
outcomes. Committees that are formed With a variety of events, programs, educa-
to meet those needs that are identified, for
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
tional seminars and community advocacy,
example, they currently are Healthcare,
The Clear Lake Area offers employment at
the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce
Education, Tourism, Young Professional
all skill levels and educational attainment.
is encouraging its residents to “Buy Into Bay
Development, Legislative Affairs, Economic
The Texas Workforce Commission provides
Area.” Encouraging residents to not only
Development, new business development
free job search services to anyone looking for
shop locally, but volunteer, donate and spend
and leadership business education.
work and can be reached at 800-832-2829.
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
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in this section
Photos courtesy of GHCVB
arts and culture parks & attractions sports & golf calendar of events
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71
LEISURE &
RECREATION There are so many things to do in the Clear Lake Bay Area just keeping up is an activity. Everywhere you go fun is just around the corner…beyond a bridge…on the beach… atop a tree…in a music hall. Developing a coastal attitude here comes naturally.
Catering Since 1986! • Turnarounds • Breakfest Meeting • Holiday Party • Wedding • Birthday • Anniversary
Delivery • Pick up • Set up & serve Any event • Any size • Any menu Private Room Available
Patio• Happy Hour • Lunch Specials
281-334-0300 | For Catering: 281-421-2826 www.LunasRestaurants.com
Factory outlets and discount stores make
Among communities of this size, few match
bargain hunting fun. The VF Outlet Mall in
the Clear Lake Area’s quality performing
La Marque and the Tanger Outlet Center in
and visual arts offerings. Symphony, band,
Texas City offer deeply discounted merchan-
choral, ballet and theater groups offer excel-
dise from brand name retailers. The malls
lent entertainment. The City of Nassau Bay
draw shoppers from across the region.
is home to the Clear Creek Country Theatre and the Clear Lake Symphony. Making
Recently expanded Baybrook Mall has more
its performing home at the University of
than 1.7 million square feet; the mall has a
Houston Clear Lake is the first-rate Bay
wealth of retail services, a movie theater,
Area Houston Ballet & Theatre.
restaurants and an outdoor lawn intended for special events. Baybrook ranks second
WATERFRONT DINING
to Houston’s The Galleria in retail sales per
Fine restaurants and waterfront clubs on Galveston Bay and throughout the Clear Lake Area offer an outstanding variety of cuisine: seafood and steaks, Mexican, Italian, German, Cajun and Oriental, to mention only a few. Boat watching, while dining at the restaurants along the channel is
square foot.
fun and relaxing.
arts and crafts district and the shops at the
The cities each have an abundance of shops and stores selling ethnic treasures and regional favorites. Old Seabrook is a favorite shopping spot for collectible art, antiques and specialty shops. Kemah also has an Boardwalk. The interesting mix of shops in
SHOPPING
League City’s historical district is another
If your favorite way to pass time is shopping
spot for one-of-a kind pieces.
6555 South Shore Blvd. League City, TX 77573
then Clear Lake is the place to be! From
(In Kroger Parking Lot)
designer clothing to bargains, “Buy Into Bay
WATER SPORTS
Area” is the Clear Lake Area Chamber of
The location on the Texas Gulf Coast
Commerce’s motto.
provides plenty of opportunity for boating,
Now Delivering!
7 27 2 C LCE LAERA R L ALKAEK A E RAERAE A N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– F– AFLAL L 2L 021071 7 / W / IW N ITNE TRE R 2 021081 8
Photo courtesy of GHCVB
• LEAGUE CITY • BAYTOWN TEXAS CITY • FRIENDSWOOD
ARTS AND CULTURE
CLEAR LAKE GOLF COURSES
fishing, water sports, birding, bicycling, hiking and more. Residents enjoy 70 miles of Gulf Coast beaches that are all within an hour’s drive. Galveston Bay fishing trips are
Battleground at Deer Park 281-478-4653
popular with families and businesses. Clear Lake is a 1,728-acre body of water that feeds
Bay Oaks Country Club (Private) www. clubcorp.com 281-488-7888
into Galveston and Trinity Bays. 19 marinas offer more than 7,000 slips. Waterways have ample boat launches and access to
Beacon Lake Golf Club 281-337-1459
Clear Lake and the Gulf of Mexico. There are well maintained public boat launches
Evergreen Point Golf Course 281-837-9000
on NASA Road 1, Egret Bay Blvd., and at the Kemah-Seabrook Bridge. Many of the
Magnolia Creek Golf Links 281-557-0555
launch areas have picnic tables and campsites, bathrooms with showers and other
Sienna Plantation Golf Club 281-778-4653
convenience facilities. Both power and sailing vessels are available
South Shore Harbour Country Club www.sshr.com 281-334-0521
for charter and short-term rental along with jet skis, wind surfers, canoes, and water skiing equipment that can be rented on an hourly basis. Sailing continues to grow in
Southwyck Golf Club, Pearland 713-436-9999
popularity, evidenced by the number of catamarans, sailboards and other small vessels
Wildcat Golf Club 713-413-3400
on the lake. The Gulf Coast’s yields of Red Snapper, Bass, Trout, Flounder and other catches make fishing an adventure. Inland catches are among the best in the U.S. Resident fishing licenses are modestly priced and are sold at most sporting goods stores. The state also offers lifetime licenses. Contact Texas Parks and Wildlife at 512-389-4800 or visit online at www.tpwd.state.tx.us.
NEW LOOK, NEW CLUB The one thing missing is you!
HUNTING Deer, turkey, quail, duck and dove are combination (hunting/fishing) licenses are
THE NEW BAY OAKS EXPERIENCE includes new ways for our Members to connect, dine and play.
nominally priced. Seniors pay a reduced
• Upgraded dining experience with new decor and stylish finishes
fee. Contact the Texas Parks and Recreation
• Refreshed interior design scheme throughout the Club
Department at 281-931-647
• Newly renovated fitness center
plentiful in Texas. Resident hunting and
GOLF The average high in Houston in January (the
Experience for yourself one of the top rated golf and country clubs in the Clear Lake area.
coldest month) is 62.9°F and the average low is 43.2°F; there are over 200 days of
CONTACT OUR MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR TODAY!
sunshine. Clear Lake is a golfer’s paradise.
281.244.3802 | chelsea.turnham@clubcorp.com
The Clear Lake and surrounding area has its share of both public and private courses that offer varying terrain and challenges to suit
*Offer may not be combined with any other referral programs or discounts. To qualify as a sponsor, Member must introduce a membership candidate to the Club prior to the candidate having contact with the Club. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. See Club for details. © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved. 34419 0317 EA
every golfer’s taste.
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ARTS &e
The theater district is an impressive cultural and entertainment center; features nine world renowned performing arts organizations, and many smaller ones, in four venues – Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. 7 47 4 C LCE LAERA R L ALKAEK A E RAERAE A N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– F– AFLAL L 2L 021071 7 / W / IW N ITNE TRE R 2 021081 8
Photo courtesy of GHCVB
r u t l cu
THEATER
Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org
Houston Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org
One of America’s leading not-for-profit theatres calls the Houston Theater District Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing in productions of the classics, modern plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces more performances than all other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District.
Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environ-
Bayou Place 500 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.bayouplace.com Bayou Place is Houston’s premier destination for great food and good times. Popular venues such as the Revention Music Center and Sundance Cinemas are located here as well as many dining options – most popular is Houston’s own Hard Rock Café. This mosaic of entertainment options makes Bayou Place a prime spot for the Houston Theater District. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings first-class entertainment and cultural enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series. Houston Ballet 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as contemporary works. This company attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy where instruction levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers.
ment, the Houston Grand Opera entertains with their innovative programs, community events and educational projects. Houston Grand Opera has a solid reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 56 world premieres and seven American premieres since 1973. Stop in and visit and see why Houston Grand Opera has toured extensively, including trips to Europe and Asia, and is the only opera company to have won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and
Stages Repertory Theatre 3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in the region that offers year-round employment for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres. Society for the Performing Arts 615 Louisiana St. Ste. 100, Houston, 77002 www.spahouston.org
two Emmy awards. The Society for the Performing Arts is the Houston Symphony 615 Louisiana St. Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org
largest nonprofit presenting organization of
The Houston Symphony’s mission is to
nationally acclaimed artists from the entire
“inspire and engage a large diverse audience
performing arts spectrum, and has been
in Greater Houston and beyond through
doing so for over 50 years.
exceptional
orchestral
and
non-orches-
tral performances, educational programs and community activities.”
By 2025, the
Houston Symphony aims to be one of
its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston inter-
Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com
America’s most relevant and accessible
A non-profit based in Houston, Texas,
top-ten orchestras.
Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a
Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com
world –class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is
Jones Hall is a monument to the memory
equipped for actors and aficionados of all
of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure
ages and abilities.
in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually. Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com Main Street Theater was founded in 1975 and has been opening doors for locals of all ages to engage in the performing arts. They offer classes for children and adults and hold performances by both local authors and established writers.
Wortham Theater Center 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined. The Wortham Center features two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater at 2,405 seats used primarily for major performances and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater at 1,100 seat hosts smaller opera and ballet. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
MUSEUMS
Photo courtesy of The Art Car Museum
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston 5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org
survivors’ legacy. The Holocaust Museum
The Contemporary Arts Museum of Houston is an institution dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Patrons of every age will appreciate the collections of work and dynamic exhibitions on display. CAMH is a nonprofit organization that relies on a variety of funding sources, including individual, government, and corporate, for its activities.
bers,” as well as other pieces of history.
Houston has a permanent exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remem-
The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org The Menil Collection is an art museum that houses both permanent collection and welcomes special exhibitions. Making art accessible to all is vital to their mission, so no admission fee is charged and all public
The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com
The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org
programs are free. They hope to educate
Otherwise known as the “Garage Mahal”,
The Health Museum is Houston’s most interactive science learning center and a member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind in the country. Popular exhibits include: DeBakey Cell Lab, the Sue Trammell Whitfield Gallery, Amazing Body Pavilion and the McGovern 4D Theater.
to foster each individual’s direct, personal
The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org
to Houston residents and visitors alike. The
As one of the most heavily attended museums in the United States, the Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) seeks to enhance knowledge and delight in natural science and related subjects. It houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permanent exhibit areas that examine astronomy, space science, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and minerals, Texas wildlife and more. www. hmns.org
era of history from across the globe. Make
Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org
to engage in contemporary art through exhi-
The Holocaust Museum Houston is dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the
public in an effort to promote participation
The Art Car Museum is dedicated to contemporary art. It is an exhibition forum for local, national and international arts with an emphasis on art cars, other fine arts and artists that rarely, if ever, are acknowledged by other cultural institutions. Most popular to Houstonians is the annual Art Car Parade. Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is proud to educate the public and preserve and promote the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America’s Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present. Here, you can find workshops, youth outreach programs and exhibits about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service. Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store, Mexican village, puppet show and an infant play area are all under one roof. The fun-filled hands on experience at the Children’s Museum of Houston will not leave anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.
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and inspire by being readily accessible to future generations. Menil philosophy is encounter with works of art. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents its exceptional exhibitions and installations Museum has numerous collections that fill the galleries year-round embracing every time to visit the Bayou Bend Collection not too far away. From 2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a magnificent two new buildings. Children 12 and younger are always admitted free. Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston 120 Fine Arts Bldg. Houston, 77204 www.blafferartmuseum.org Blaffer Art Museum helps the community bitions, publications and public programs. This art museum is free, and open to the in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.
Photo courtesy of Hobby Center For The Performing Arts
PARKS &
ATTRACTIONS C L E A R LAKE AR EA PAR K S Bay Area Park - Bay Area Park is a 64.3 acre park overlooking Armand Bayou. Among the tall trees you can picnic by the duck pond or walk along the flagstone trails and gazebo in the Oasis garden. Launch your canoe and paddle along the historic Armand Bayou. There is a variety of playground structures, baseball and softball fields, and tennis courts. Bring your dogs and visit Precinct 2’s first dog park. Clear Lake Park - Clear Lake Park is a 59 acre park located southeastern Harris County. The south side of the park offers traditional park amenities as well as a boat launch and fishing pier. The North side of the park offers playground equipment, various sports fields and 0.5 mile jogging trail, community center and open air pavilion. There is also an ancient Indian burial ground believed to be ancestors to the Akokisa Indians dating between 600 and 900 A.D. Also discovered was shell median dating back to 1476 B.C. To learn more visit the Harris County Boys’ School Archeological Site Marker.Spray park is open 1st Saturday in April thru last Saturday in October. Walter Hall Park - This is a Galveston County community park. In addition to a vast green space it includes baseball and soccer fields, tennis courts, inside pavilion, picnic areas, playground, practice backstops, a boat ramp and pier. Community events are held here throughout the year. Sylvan Beach Park - Sylvan Beach Park is a 31.4 acre park located just east of South Highway 146 in La Porte. Along with conventional park amenities you will find a skate park, boat ramp and a pay-to-fish pier. Enjoy the two pristine white sand beaches and swim in Galveston Bay. This historic park was once known as the Grove, has been a driving force for the city’s economy since 1893.
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
CLEAR LAKE & SURROUNDING AREA ATTRACTIONS Armand Bayou Nature Center www.abnc.org • 281-474-2551 Armand Bayou Nature Center, the largest urban wildlife refuge and wilderness preserve in the U.S. covers 2,500 acres adjacent to NASA/JSC. One of the last undeveloped bayous in Texas, Armand Bayou is one of only four Texas Coastal Preserves. Some 40,000 visitors annually benefit from educational tours, exhibits, events and classes. More than 1,000 acres of wetland habitat and approximately 600 acres of prairie offer a refuge for 370 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians including whitetailed deer, armadillos, swamp rabbits, bobcats, coyotes, venomous and non-venomous snakes, turtles, alligators and frogs. Visitors enjoy the melody of songbirds, such as warblers, flycatchers, orioles and painted buntings, and the cry of birds-of-prey, such as osprey, owls and kites. The broad diversity of flora and fauna is due to the intermingling of three distinct ecosystems – forest, prairie and bayou. Visitors can escape the stress of urban life by hiking six trails, delighting in the joys of bird watching or reliving the past at a recreated farm.
can experience history first-hand. The only surviving combat ship to have served in both World Wars, the Battleship Texas became the first memorial museum of its kind in the United States and is permanently anchored on the Houston Ship Channel. The Battleship Texas program provides many recreational and educational experiences for visitors as well as numerous programs and self-guided tours. The Butler Longhorn Museum www. butlerlonghornmuseum.com 281-332-1393 The Butler Longhorn Museum in League City is a unique cultural attraction for tourists, displaying western art, music, Longhorn artifacts and Texas historical items. This Longhorn Museum is the first of its kind and is expected to be included in the Guinness Book of Records for the world’s largest Longhorn history collection. For more information, scheduling events, memberships or volunteer opportunities please contact blmmembers@aol.com. Gulf Greyhound Park 409-986-9500/800-ASK2WIN
Feed animals and birds from Africa, India, Asia, Australia and South America. An adventure-filled tram ride takes you over 86 acres of natural habitat.
At Gulf Greyhound Park, the world’s largest and most successful greyhound racing complex (just south of Clear Lake), the fast-paced action runs all year, rain or shine, with air-conditioned comfort on all four levels. This unique entertainment offers the thrill of greyhound racing and the excitement of pari-mutual wagering (for those 21 and older).
Battleship Texas 281-479-2431
Historic League City www.leaguecityhistory.org
Battleship Texas is anchored at the 1,200acre San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site where visitors
The Historic District of League City features quaint homes and businesses along a picturesque tree-lined boulevard (FM 518). Many
Bayou Wildlife Park 281-337-6376
of the restored buildings date back to the late1800’s. Historical Bay Area Museum 281-326-5950 Built in 1901, the Bay Area Museum and chapel at 5000 NASA Road 1 provide the community with an interesting look at local history, and an opportunity to visit a restored, turn of the century church. The building, once the Webster Presbyterian Church, was moved to Clear Lake Park in 1981. Visits are free. Kemah Boardwalk 281-334-9880 “The Fun Never Stops” at the Kemah Boardwalk. A carnival midway filled with rides and amusements, great restaurants, a hotel, and marina are the main attractions. The interesting shops that line the boardwalk offer everything from souvenirs to fine art. Holiday events, festivals, exhibits, and live entertainment throughout the year draw an estimated 3 million visitors. Experience the Brazos Bend State Park - Photo courtesy of Eric Pohl excitement of Stingray Reef, where you can touch and feed live stingrays. Discover these deep-water dwellers up close and personal. The boardwalk is family entertainment at its best in the Clear Lake Area. Kemah Lighthouse District Visitor Center See the variety of specialty shops and their unique items. 281-334-3181 Moody Gardens www.moodygardens.org • 800-582-4673. A tropical destination for families and groups. Explore the all new Rainforests of the World along within the Aquarium Pyramid®, the Discovery Museum & the action of the IMAX® 3D, 4D or Ridefilm theaters. Cruise aboard the Colonel
SCHLITTERBAHN GALVESTON ISLAND WATERPARK www.schlitterbahn.com The nation’s most popular summertime waterpark, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island has grown to become a beloved family tradition. Guests can pack a picnic and enjoy exciting aquatic adventures. During the summer season, the park offers over 35 amazing rides and attractions. 78
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Paddlewheel Boat, tee off at the new Moody Gardens Golf Course and relax at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center for an ideal getaway. Old Seabrook 281-474-3869 Stroll among antique, craft and gift shops. Enjoy refreshments in the tearooms and restaurants of this quaint shopping district near Galveston Bay. Port of Houston Boat Tour 713-670-2416 Port of The Houston offers free, 90-minute round-trip, educational cruises along the Houston Ship Channel. Embarking from the port’s Sam Houston Landing, visiting sightseers can enjoy passing views of international cargo vessels, and operations at the port’s Turning Basin Terminal. Measuring 95 feet in length and 24 feet in width, the boat carries a maximum capacity of 100 passengers, with air-conditioned lounge seating and additional standing room on the boat’s rear deck. Sailaway Clear Lake Charters www.sailawaycat.com
Sam Houston Race Park is one of Houston’s premier racing, dining and entertainment destinations, located just 15 minutes from Downtown. Sam Houston Race Park have a variety of exciting sports and entertainment in addition to live horse racing as well. The Park features two major racing seasons – Thoroughbred Season (January through March) and Quarter Horse Season (March through May). San Jacinto Monument & Museum 281-479-2421 Site of the battle that won Texas independence from Mexico. The world’s largest masonry structure invites visitors to learn about events that shaped Texas history. Space Center Houston 281-244-2105 Space Center Houston, a $70-million, 183,000 square-foot entertainment and educational complex designed by Disney Imagineering, offers hands-on, space-related experiences to visitors. In addition to a fullsize reproduction of the space shuttle, guests can use computer trainers to perform operations similar to the ones the astronauts used to launch a satellite or land a shuttle.
station and the largest collection of moon rocks on display anywhere on earth. A 60-minute tram tour of the JSC complex is another source of entertainment and education for JSC guests.
NASA scientists and astronauts give briefings about current activities, visitors observe scientists and mission specialists at work and in training via live video hookups. The theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature space flight films. Exhibits include thousands of space artifacts, the Skylab space
Webster Gateway 281-332-1826 Browse this eclectic shopping district for fine art, gourmet foods, crafts, fine jewelry and books. Visit many fine restaurants.
Photos courtesy of GHCVB
Escape the ordinary. Enjoy the wind, waves and sunshine; have fun with family and friends on a Kemah sailing adventure or how about a relaxing, romantic sail to tell someone how much you love them under the moonlight. A Sailing Adventure aboard the Sail away cat is designed to give you the most unique sailing adventure that is relaxing and enjoyable and can be designed to meet your specific desires.
Sam Houston Race Park www.shrp.com
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ARMAND BAYOU
For children growing up in the Clear Lake area a field trip to Armand Bayou Nature Center (ABNC) is an unexpected eye-opening adventure. Just a few miles from their homes and NASA, the 2,500-acre preserve is defined by its natural wetland forest, prairie, and marsh habitats with abundant wildlife. More than 370 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians still live on the preserve making Armand Bayou a nature photographer’s paradise from dawn to moonrise.
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Photo courtesy of Armand Bayou Nature Center
NATURE CENTER
Other attractions include an organic vegetable garden, butterfly gardens, a Watersmart garden, the Children’s Discovery Area, a heritage garden at the Hanson House, a prairie interpretive garden, bird blinds and a Bison observation deck. Seasonal events are planned well in advance, for more information visit www.abnc.og. Armand Bayou Nature Center is an urban treasure; membership and volunteers are always welcome.
Armand Bayou Nature Center was founded in 1974 as a result of efforts begun by an environmental visionary, Armand Yramategui. As development moved closer, Yramategui worked diligently to preserve the land and waterway. Following his death in 1970, a local, regional and national coalition of people and organizations fulfilled Armand’s dream by establishing one of the largest urban wilderness preserves in the country. The nature center surrounds the bayou and the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve. Due to its unique character, Armand Bayou was recognized by the State of Texas as one of only four Coastal Preserves along the Texas coast. The Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve and the protected lands of Armand Bayou Nature Center showcase two increasingly rare ecosystems – a riparian coastal flatwoods forest and a coastal tall grass prairie. The daily operations of Armand Bayou Nature Center are provided by a small staff supported by over 200 trained volunteers who supply more than 13,000 hours of service each year. Visitors are encouraged to reconnect with nature through various educational and inspirational attractions such as live animal displays, observation platforms, and easy to navigate hiking trails and waterways. Hikers can step back in time at Martyn Farm, a snap shot view of Texas farm life in the late 1800’s.
The Martyn, Karankawa, Lady Bird, Prairie and Discovery Loop hiking trails function as outdoor classrooms where visitors learn about the forest, prairie, marsh and natural wetlands; habitats once common in the Houston/Galveston area. Trail maps are available at the center and naturalists offer guided walks every weekend. The Armand Bayou Paddling Trail follows Armand Bayou from near its confluence with Clear Lake, upstream through the Armand Bayou Nature Center with connections to Horsepen Bayou. The paddling trail is maintained in partnership with Texas Parks & Wildlife. Bass anglers are lucky on the upper reaches of the trail, while redfish, trout and drum can be caught in the south end of the bayou near Clear Lake. The ABNC EcoExploration programs are very popular family adventures. Guided canoe tours held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday mornings offer close and personal views of wildlife on the banks of the water. The 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month are Free Admission Days thanks to the generosity of DOW Chemical. Owl Prowls, Bat Hikes, and Firefly Walks held evenings near the full moon, are popular with photographers and park enthusiasts. Special after-hours guided photography walks occur monthly, along with early morning bird counts. Visitors can see the beauty of Armand Bayou by making reservations on the “Bayou Ranger”, an electric pontoon boat. Demand for all programs make reservations a must.
QUICK FACTS: Armand Bayou Nature Center is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization in public private partnership with Harris County and Texas. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law under Section 501 (c)(3)
ADMISSION TO ABNC 3 & Under Free 4 - 12 Years $2.00 13 - 59 Years $4.00 60 & Above $2.00
ABNC HOURS Wed. - Sat. 9:00am - 5:00pm Sun. 12:00pm - 5:00pm Last admission at 4:00pm. Gates locked at 5:00pm. Closed Mon. & Tue
LOCATION/CONTACT INFORMATION 8500 Bay Area Blvd Pasadena, TX 77507 Email abnc@abnc.org Local 281-474-2551
www.abnc.org ARMAND BAYOU PADDLE TRAIL ACCESSED THROUGH: Harris County Clear Lake Park Harris County Bay Area Park Pasadena Big Island Slough Park
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DINING SCENE CLEAR LAKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS
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1,000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza..................... 281-250-9877 Aquarium Restaurant............. 281-334-9010 BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery...... 281-316-3037 Bonefish Grill ............................ 281-332-0430 Brewingz - Nassau Bay............ 832-864-3200 Bubba Gump Shrimp Co........ 281-334-2881
Luna’s Mexican Restaurant...............................281-334-0300 www.lunasmexicanrestaurant.com Maggiano’s Little Italy Baybrook.................................. 281-282-9729 Mamacita’s Mexican Restaurant................................ 281-332-5362
Preamble Lounge and Crafthouse............................... 832-905-2927 Red Lobster.............................. 281-338-2518 Red River BBQ & Grill............... 281-332-8086 Rogers Bar and Grill................ 281-334-1110 Rudy’s “Country Store” & Bar-B-Q.................................. 281-338-0462
Cadillac Bar & Grill.................. 281-334-9049
Mario’s Flying Pizza & Italian Restaurant.................... 281-474-5103
Carrabba’s Italian Grill........... 281-338-0574
McAlister’s Deli......................... 281-554-7720
Saltgrass Steak House............. 281-538-5441
Casa Anita’s Mexican Restaurant................................ 281-326-2200
Mediterraneo Market & Cafe......................... 281-333-3180
Sherlock’s Baker St. Pub.......... 281-461-4702
Chick-fil-A at El Dorado Blvd......................... 281-488-1112
MOD Pizza................................ 281-954-2050
Thai Spice Rice & Noodle House.......................... 281-554-6800
Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack.......................... 281-334-5000 Crescent City Connection Sports & Oyster Bar............................. 281-954-6810 East Star Restaurant................ 281-280-8822 The Flying Dutchman Restaurant & Oyster Bar................................. 281-334-7575 Franca’s Real Italian Restaurant................................ 281-488-2207 Frenchie’s ................................ 281-486-7144 Fuddruckers............................. 281-333-1598
Molly’s Pub............................... 281-486-0971 NAM Noodles & More............. 832-632-1083 Neptune Subs.......................... 281-474-3973 Noodles and Company......... 281-332-2428 Opus Ocean Grille.................281-334-0006 www.opusbistro.net
Salata - Nassau Bay................ 281-532-6988
Space City Takeout, LLC........ 713-422-2886
Tommy’s Restaurant Oyster Bar................................. 281-480-2221 TRADICAO Brazilian Steakhouse.............................. 281-557-9999 Tree House................................ 281-286-8956 Twin Peaks................................ 734-341-6859
Outback Steakhouse.............. 281-338-6283
01Victor’s Deli II....................... 281-984-7119
Panera Bread.......................... 281-286-3273
Wael’s Mediterranean Cuisine...................................... 281-286-1110
Papa John’s Pizza .................. 281-286-0770 Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille..... 281-286-8800
Zoe’s Kitchen........................... 713-301-1420
Gatti’s Pizza.............................. 281-480-4800 Gio’s Flying Pizza & Pasta....... 281-337-0107 Habanero’s -Mayan Kitchen. 281-474-4400 Hamburgers by Gourmet....... 281-333-3336 Hilton Houston NASA Clear Lake................................ 281-333-9300 Hubcap Grill - Kemah............. 281-339-7116 Jackie’s Brickhouse................. 832-864-2459 Jason’s Deli.............................. 281-338-8000 Jersey Mike’s Subs................... 832-905-2985 Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches Bay Area.................................. 281-316-2222 Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches Nassau Bay.............................. 281-335-1210 Joe Lee’s Seafood Kitchen Restaurant................................ 281-535-0148 Joe’s Bar-B-Que....................... 281-331-9626 La Brisa on the Creek.............. 281-554-4000 Lance’s Turtle Club.......281-326-7613 (club) Landry’s Kemah Waterfront................................ 281-334-2513 Lighthouse Buffet..................... 281-334-3360 Luby’s........................................ 281-335-8400 Luby’s Fuddruckers................. 281-724-2692
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SPORTS & ATHLETICS
Photos courtesy of GHCVB
There is no offers lack of athletic entertainment sports enthusiasts Harris County a wide variety of sports andfor recreational activities to near Clear Lakecouch area. potatoes, Enjoy NFL weekend football with the Houston Texans,and please everyone: warriors, full-on athletes NBA basketball the Houston and MLBmild baseball with die-hard fans love with the sports scenes.Rockets With year-round temperatures, getting up and Astros getting out has become a way of life. the Houston
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HOUSTON PROUD Major events in Houston require tens of thousands of volunteers who take on a variety of jobs and responsibilities to make the event Houston Proud. More than 33,000 individuals serving on over 100 committees form the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo volunteer corps, giving more than 2.1 million total hours. The biggest volunteer program in Super Bowl history took place in Houston in 2017, where 10,000 volunteers assisted over a million visitors to the city for Super Bowl LI.
PROFESSIONAL SPORT TEAMS The Houston Texans www.houstontexans.com Football is huge in Texas and the Texans are huge in Houston. In their 16th season, this NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012 and 2015 AFC South Division Champions. Head coach Bill O’Brien and owner Bob McNair have put together an exciting roster that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and new up-and-comers, like Deshaun Watson.
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Sunday football is celebrated in NRG stadium cheering on the team, tailgating with friends in the parking lot before and after the game and at many sports bars around town. The Houston Astros www.houston.astros.mlb.com Part of the West Division of Major League Baseball’s American League, the Houston Astros are on a roll. Currently the winningest team in baseball, the team and its fans are having a lot of fun. Playing in Minute Maid Park, one of the country’s few stadiums with a retractable roof, the team serves up entertaining baseball action at home about 80 times over the course of the season. Fans enjoy gourmet hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex fare and many other delectable choices while enjoying the game. The Houston Rockets www.houstonrockets.com The Houston Rockets are the city’s professional National Basketball Association
team playing in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. Two-time world basketball champions, the Rockets are regular challengers in playoff action and always provide exciting end-to-end action in the Toyota Center. Many star players have passed through the team’s roster over its almost-fifty-year history and now James Hardin, Chris Paul and the rest have launched the Rockets back into competitive contention. The Houston Dynamo www.houstondynamo.com Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Houston’s Major League Soccer Team. The team name is reflective, in part, of Houston: an
energetic,
hard-working,
risk-taking
kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, fans have lots to cheer about as this team continues to rank well both at home and internationally. The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass Stadium, an architecturally acclaimed venue, located east of downtown.
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CALENDAR of EVENTS CLEAR LAKE AREA EVENTS YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS
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JAN U A R Y NASA/Clear Lake Go Texan Activities www.hlsr.com
F EBR U A R Y Mardi Gras on Galveston Island www.mardigrasgalveston.com Men Who Cook – Lakewood Yacht Club www.seabrookmenwhocook.org Yachty Gras Boat Parade, Kemah www.yachtygras.com
M AR C H Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo www.hlsr.com South West International In-The-Water Boat Show – South Shore Harbour Marina www.southwestinternationalboatshow.com Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Spring Fever Golf Tournament www.clearlakearea.com
A PR I L Earth Day Celebrations - Armand Bayou Nature Center www.abnc.org Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Epicurean Evening www.clearlakearea.com Spring Car Show - League City www.spacecitycruisers.com
M AY Classic Car and Vintage Wooden Boat Show Keels & Wheels Concours d’Elegance www.Keels-Wheels.com Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Buy Into Bay Area Business & Wellness EXPO www.clearlakearea.com International Beer Festival – Kemah Boardwalk www.kemahboardwalk.com League City Lions Club Annual Texas Music Festival, Fair & BBQ Cook-Off www.lcvillagefair.com
J U NE Bay Day Festival – Galveston Bay Foundation www.galvbay.org/events_bayday.html Texas Outlaw Challenge Annual Poker Run www.texasoutlawchallenge.com
JULY Clear Lake Shores 4th of July Golf Cart Parade www.clearlakeshores-tx.gov July 4th Fireworks around the Clear Lake www.cityofwebster.com www.kemahboardwalk.com www.kemah-tx.gov/www.nassaubay.com Christmas in July www.hcp2.com/harriscoun typct2community/senior-programs Kemah 4th of July Parade www.kemah-tx.gov Lunar Rendezvous Festivities www.lunarrendezvous.org Seabrook 4th of July Kids Parade www.seabrooktx.gov Space Week Festivities www.spacecenter.org
AUGUST Blessing of the Fleet Festivities - Kemah www.kemah-tx.gov Clear Lake Annual International Triathlon www.out-loud.org
S EPTEMB ER Fall Car Show - League City www.spacecitycruisers.com Kemah Greek Festival www. kemahgreekfoodandwinefest.com Oak Tree Festival – League City Heritage Foundation www.leaguecityhistoricshoppes.com
O CTOB ER City of Kemah Octoberfest www.kemah-tx.gov
Kemah Fall Beer Festival - Kemah Boardwalk www.kemahboardwalk.com League Park Annual Fall Harvest Festival www.leaguecity.com Saul Balderas Golf Tournament www.leaguecity.com Seabrook Annual Festival of the Arts www.seabrookfestivalofthearts.com Seabrook Annual Saltwater Derby www.seabrooktx.gov Space City Rotary Shrimporee www.spacecenterrotary.org Texas Boatoberfest on Clear Lake www.texasboatoberfest.com Wings Over Houston Air Show www.wingsoverhouston.com
NOV EMB ER Martyn Harvest Fest - Armand Bayou Nature Center www.abnc.org Kemah Deck the Halls Christmas Market www.kemah-tx.gov Sip & Stroll Wine Event Kemah Boardwalk www.kemahboardwalk.com
DECEMB ER Chef’s Gingerbread House and Gingerbread House - Contest – South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center www.sshr.com Christmas in Kemah www.kemah-tx.gov League City Holiday Magic – Events All Month www.leaguecityholidaymagic.com Nutcracker Ballet – UHCL, Bayou Theater www.bahbt.org Toys for Tots Softball Tournament – Big League Dreams Sports Park, League City www.bigleaguedreams.com
DECEMBER: Christmas Boat Lane Parade - Second Saturday www.clearlakearea.com
Ring in the holidays with this Clear Lake tradition. More than 100,000 people traditionally enjoy this event from land and from hundreds of boats anchored throughout the Lake The parade features more than 100 brightly decorated power and sailboats that will traverse the Clear Lake channel from the South Shore Harbour Marina and the Nassau Bay Lagoon to Galveston Bay. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM 87
ad index
ACCOUNTING
Houston Methodist St. John Hospital.................................. 1
Mary Jane Dixon, CPA, CFP™, CSA................................. 38
Tigler Center for Dentists.................................................... 64 UTMB Health........................................................Back Cover
AIR CONDITIONING
Mackey Mechanical Services.......................................... 40 APARTMENT LOCATORS
David the Locator ............................................................. 28
UTMB Health Department of Pediatrics........................... 62 UT Physicians....................................................................... 61 INSURANCE
Allstate – Matt Roll.............................................................. 33
BANKS / CREDIT UNIONS
Allstate – Rene Toman....................................................... 34
ACU of Texas Associated Credit Union............................ 35
MUNICIPALITIES/GOVERNMENT
Beacon Federal Credit Union........................................... 39 JSC Federal Credit Union................................................. 32 BUILDERS
City of Kemah..................................................................... 14 City of League City............................................................ 15 REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS
Ashton Woods Homes....................................................... 17
Empire Hidden Lakes..............................Inside Front Cover
CAR DEALERSHIPS
Lago Mar............................................................................. 13
Norman Frede Chevrolet ................................................. 21
Tuscan Lake.......................................................................... 3
Ron Carter Clear Lake...................................................... 23
Edgewater............................................................................ 3
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION SERVICES
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce..................... 69
Innovative Realty Group................................................... 28 Premier Properties of Texas............................................... 12
CHURCH
RE/MAX Crossroads Realty – Robbie Nelson................... 29
Clear Lake United Methodist Church.............................. 57
RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT
EDUCATION - COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
Bay Oaks Country Club.................................................... 73
New Horizons..................................................................... 55
Houston Rockets................................................................. 85
San Jacinto College.......................................................... 53
Lakewood Yacht Club....................................................... 79
University of Houston Clear Lake...................................... 54
Luna’s Mexican Restaurant.............................................. 72
EDUCATION - PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Opus Grille........................................................................... 83
Distinct Abilities.................................................................. 50
Schlitterbahn Galveston...................................................... 5
Lutheran South Academy................................................. 51
South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center....... 16
Odyssey Academy............................................................ 52
Texas Renaissance Festival....................Inside Back Cover
HEALTHCARE
SERVICES-DELIVERY
Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids........................... 64
Lone Star Delivery and Process........................................ 41
Bay Area Heart Cardiovascular Center.......................... 63
TEMPORARY LODGING/HOTELS
Brookdale Clear Lake....................................................... 65
South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center....... 16
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE
MORE SPECIALISTS. MORE ADVANCES. MORE WONDERS. The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) shares a long history of caring for patients in Southeast Texas. Our League City Campus delivers the finest inpatient and outpatient care for a variety of services — from top-notch orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists ... advanced imaging and laboratory services ... to beautiful birthing suites designed with mom, baby and family in mind. Our integrated approach to health and wellness is complemented by our serene, caring environments designed to promote healing. Now, convenient access to a comprehensive network of care is even closer to home.
The following services are located on the League City Campus:
• 24-hour Emergency Department • Advanced Imaging Services ° Radiology ° MRI ° Nuclear Medicine ° Ultrasound ° CT and X-ray ° Vascular Lab • Birthing Suites for Obstetric and Newborn Care (LDRP) • Breast Health Services • Cancer and Infusion Center
• • • • • • •
Cardiac Catheterization Cardiac Rehabilitation Endoscopy Inpatient Medical Surgical Center Orthopedic Clinic Retail Pharmacy Onsite Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (PT/OT) • Urgent Care - evenings and weekends • Women’s Health
• Surgical Specialty Care ° Cardiology ° Cardiovascular and Thoracic ° Endoscopy ° Gastroenterology and Hepatobiliary ° General Surgery ° Neurosurgery ° Plastic Surgery ° Urology ° Vascular Surgery
Learn more about our League City Campus and available services at utmbhealth.com/league-city-campus Notice of non-discrimination: www.utmb.edu/site-policies
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