Clear Lake Area Newcomer Guide - 2017 Vol. 1

Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Newcomer & Relocation Guide • Fall 2017/Winter 2018

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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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The art of living Prestigious builders 3 model homes

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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

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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

– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8

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

– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8

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

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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

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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

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

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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

90A

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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CHAMBERS

342

108

o rac nt fI

ay

0

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South Houston

William P. Hobby Airport

UP

134

225

Deer Park LR LR

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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

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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

Tomball

2920

LI

LR

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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

409-739-7641 • robbie@robbienelson.com RE/MAX Crossroads Realty’s motto is “We live where we work and we love where we live!”

RE/MAX Crossroads Realty is centrally located between Houston and Galveston Island. We maybe a small community and office but you will not find a better group of realtors in Galveston County! RE/MAX Crossroads Realty is dedicated to finding you the perfect property that fits your needs and lifestyle, whether it is a high rise in downtown Houston to a beach home on Galveston Island we are your one stop real estate office!

624 FM 517 W, DICKINSON TX 77539

Many multi-family residences have fire-

832-680-1517

places, ceiling fans, built-in microwave ovens, washer/dryer connections, on-site recreational facilities and covered parking.

Most require a security deposit, and leases

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409-927-1764

Each office is independently owned and operated.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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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

Better together. +

+

= SAVE

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Subject to terms, conditions and availabiliy. Savings vary by state and produce line. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Insurance Co., Allstate Texas Lloyd’s, Allstate Indemnity Co., Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co. © 2015 Allstate Insurance Co.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

169024

Ask me for a free insurance review.

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

– FA L L 2 0 1 7 / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8

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.

Discounts on Penske Moving Truck Rentals Licensed Realtors Homeowner’s Policy/Renter’s Policy Top Rated Mortgage Lenders First Time Homebuyer’s Education

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

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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.

Services For

CORPORATIONS • INDIVIDUALS PARTNERSHIPS • ESTATES • TRUSTS

H Estate Tax Planning H Customized Workshops & Seminars

TIPS FOR HIRING A MOVING COMPANY

H Tax Return Preparation H Business Start-Up Consulting H Strategies to Help You Accumulate

• 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

16830 Royal Crest Drive Houston, TX 77058 www.mjdixoncpa.com Securities offered through H.D. Vest Investment Services .

Member SIPC Advisory Services offered through H.D. Vest Advisory Services . 6333 North Highway 161, Fourth Floor, Irving Texas 75038, (972) 870-6000 SM

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38

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.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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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-

ENERGY STAR

ital platform. They will set up your new

ENERGY STAR certified homes use

home in no time. You can even choose

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

tested, and provide homeowners with a

Home Security: Control –Energy – Peace

better lifestyle for less money. Many of

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

42

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

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

43

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.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

45

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

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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

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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

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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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57

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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59

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

62

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!

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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. 

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

73

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.

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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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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE

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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.

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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE

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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

utmbhealth.com/league-city-campus utmbhealth.com/league-city-campus