AD
contents | features 26 33 52 58 80
Montgomery & Harris County Maps Manageable, Affordable Lifestyle Public Transportation
ON THE COVER Woodforest, a project of Johnson
Places of Worship
Development Corp., is a 3,000-acre master-planned community surrounding
It’s Wine Time in Montgomery County
Woodforest Golf Club. Thirty model homes are open in the forested landscape offering a broad array of home designs priced from the $200,000s to the millions. For more information, visit WoodforestTX.com.
58
Photo by Steve Chenn courtesy of Woodforest
PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: Grand Central Park Woodforest Lennar Homes Houston Texans Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy The Woodlands Area EDC The Greater Conroe EDC Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion The John Cooper School The Woodlands Convention & Visitors
80
Bureau/Derrick Bryant Photography The Art Car Museum The Hobby Center For Performing Art Eric Pohl The Woodlands Country Club
EDITORIAL Joy Oden Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino © WEB Media Group LLC 2018 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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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Our housewarming gift to you: a $200 move-in bonus.
At TXU Energy, we hope this $200 VISA® prepaid card will help make your move a little easier–at least on your wallet. But that’s just the beginning of what we hope is a long relationship with you. By the way, did you know that along with connecting your electricity, we can help set up your Internet, TV, phone and even home security? One call does it all with TXU Energy Complete Connect: 1-877-TXU-MOVE.
Call or visit txu.com/mover today for your $200 move-in bonus. Use promo code “MOVE.” Valid for new TXU Energy move-in accounts enrolled at a single-family residential premises through this offer on a qualifying electricity plan. Redemption instructions will be mailed following enrollment. Allow six weeks after TXU Energy has received payment of your first month’s bill to receive the bonus. Card is valid for six months after issuance. Limit one per premises. Offer subject to change or cancellation at any time. Additional eligibility requirements, terms and conditions may apply. ©2018 TXU Energy. All rights reserved. REP #10004
contents | sections 18
WELCOME TO MONTGOMERY COUNTY • 18 HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 22 23 Cities & Neighborhoods 26 County Maps 27 Master-Planned Communities 28 Houston Cost of Living
HOME FRONT • 30
30
31 Temporary Lodging
Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com CEO Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans VICE PRESIDENT Robert Nusbaum
32 Choosing a Realtor 34 Mortgage Options
EDUCATION IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY • 36 38 Public Schools 41 Private Schools 42 Higher Education
36
ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 44 46 Active Senior Housing Communities 47 Assisted Living Communities
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 48 49 Moving Companies
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Harlan McGrail ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Trish Fleming Jill Roe Paul Yarbrough SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón
51 Services & Utilities
66
52 Public Transportation 56 International Relocation 58 Places of Worship
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 60 61 Area Hospitals 64 Finding a Doctor
BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 66 67 Area Chambers of Commerce
82
68 A rea Economic Development Partnerships 69 Major Employers List
Montgomery County 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 publication.
LEISURE + RECREATION • 70 71 72 75 76 82 84
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Area Convention & Vistiors Bureau Arts and Culture Area Attractions Sports and Golf Dining + Shopping Calendar of Events
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752 Phone: 512-266-2900 www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
Lake Con roe
Tranquil, natural beauty, plus planned urban amenities – Grand Central Park is the cure for the common community.
NEW HOMES FROM THE $280s
Gran d Ce ntral Park way
FM 1 488 The Woo dlan ds
7 builders 9 model homes to tour Easy access to I-45 u
(936) 4 47-2820
u
Gr a ndCentr a lPa r k T X .com
u
u
A Johnson De v elopment Com munit y
45
Con roe 36
SH 1 05
FM 2 854
LO O
P
3
WELCOME from
MONTGOMERY COUNTY Find all you are looking for in Montgomery, from beautiful homes to a strong economic structure. Quality of life is key to the success of our fast-growing area.
Dear Friend and Neighbor: Welcome to Montgomery County, the 7th - fasting growing county in the nation and a thriving community that has become a great place to raise families and run a business or develop a career. From The Woodlands to Willis to historic Montgomery and the waters of a sprawling Lake Conroe, welcome to the place where the words “quality of life” have kept their meaning. As your County Judge, I preside over Commissioners’ Court and serve as the Chief Executive Officer for Montgomery County government. Having previously served as county commissioner of Precinct 2 since Aug. 2001, over that time I have learned that one of the keys to keeping our quality of life is our economic development program to attract new industries and corporations. That has enables us to broaden our county’s tax base and maintain an affordable cost of living for the residents of this community. As a 4th generation Montgomery County resident, a husband and a father of three, it is as important to me as it is to you to have a community where our children are challenged to learn, encouraged to seek their dreams and are supported with facilities and services that are conducive to a safe and nourishing environment. If all of us work together we can accomplish these goals. Once again, welcome to Montgomery County. Please feel free to contact me or my staff if you need assistance. Warm Regards,
CRAIG DOYAL County Judge Montgomery County
501 North Thompson, Suite 401 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-7812 | 281-364-4200 Fax: 936-760-6919 cojudge@mctx.org www.mctx.org
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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WELCOME from the
CONROE/LAKE CONROE CHAMBER Lakeside living is a definite possibility when you reside in the Conroe/Lake Conroe area. Come fall in love with our history, culture and steadfast business environment.
Welcome from the Chamber! The Conroe/Lake Conroe area is excited to have you as a neighbor! We believe that the Conroe/Lake Conroe community is an amazing place to live, work, play and raise a family. As you learn more about this place we call ‘home’, we hope that you’ll fall in love with it the way that we have! On behalf of our 1,100+ members, our Board of Directors and staff of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, thank you for your interest in becoming our neighbor. The cities of Conroe, Willis and Montgomery are rich in Texas history and culture – as well as beautiful scenery – that it’s unlike anywhere else in the state! From the beauty of Lake Conroe…and year round usage…to charming downtown Conroe, the best way to discover our treasures, is to experience them first hand. So, come visit us…look around…explore our neighborhoods, stores, cultural attractions and schools. You’ll find one common denominator in all of these areas…our people make the Conroe/Lake Conroe area! If you need any additional assistance, please don’t hesitate to stop by the Chamber offices and let us know how we can help!
Sincerely,
BRIAN J. BONDY President Chamber of Commerce Conroe/Lake Conroe
505 W Davis Street Conroe, TX 77301 936-756-6644 | www.conroe.org
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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MASTER BEDROOM
COVERED PATIO
12' x 10'
15' x 14'
PL
RE
FI E AC
R .10.15 81N- NO FURNITURE
DINING ROOM
FAMILY ROOM
MASTER BATH
15' x 18'
SEAT
Two homes. One roof.
KITCHEN 12' x 19'
UP
12' x 10'
FOYER
NextGen fits your life.
CLOSET FRZ
PRIVATE
UTILITY
REF.
COAT
PANTRY
Parent moving in? Grown kids moving back?
PWDR BEDROOM 4
BATH 2
12' x 12'
OPT. MEDIA
15' x 13'
PORCH
These days, typical living is anything but. That’s what
GAME ROOM
GARAGE 19' x 23'
15' x 19'
PRIVATE LIVING ROOM
makes NextGen so unique. Rather than just offer extra
BATH 3
12' x 11'
BEDROOM 5
UP OPEN RAILING
13' x 11'
KITCHENETTE 12' x 8'
STOOP
room, NextGen homes feature private entrances, BEDROOM 3 12' x 12'
OPEN TO BELOW
separate garages, and innovative floor plans designed to SECOND FLOOR
meet your unique needs. Discover multi-generational living
Main Home
GARAGE 20' x 10'
NextGen Suite
FIRST FLOOR
LENNAR REV. 06.10.15 PLAN 481N- NO FURNITURE
on a whole new level. NextGen. The Home Within a Home®.
|
from the $270s
|
NextGenHouston.com
|
Plans and elevations/renderings are artist’s concepts and may contain options or features which are not standard on all models. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, square footage and designs vary per plan and community and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Contact a Lennar or Village Builders new home consultant for detail. Garage sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate all vehicles. Stated dimensions and/or square footages are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Any statement, verbal or written, regarding “under air” or “furnished area” or any other description or modifier for the square footage size of any home is a shorthand description of the manner in which the square footage was estimated and should not be construed to indicate certainty. Models/lifestyle photos do not represent racial or ethnic preference. Copyright 2017 Lennar Corporation. All rights reserved. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Village Builders, the Village Builders logo and Next Gen and the Next Gen logo are registered service marks of Lennar corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 05/2017
WELCOME from the
WOODLANDS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Woodlands has one of the largest business communities in the north Houston area. Learn more about out business environment and friendly community, we welcome you! Greetings from The Chamber! The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing quality services, creating opportunities for business success and serving as an effective catalyst for the economic growth and prosperity of our community. Through the collective strength of over 2000 members and our staff, we are committed to legendary leadership, business advocacy, economic prosperity, partnerships, access to innovative resources and unprecedented service to our community. The Woodlands Area offers extraordinary amenities, top-rated public and private schools, higher education institutions close to home and an exploding medical corridor. We hope that you choose to be a part of the dynamic business community that The Woodlands Area has to offer. You will find that our community fosters business growth, embodies a welcoming attitude as well as a charitable spirit. We encourage you to join us in The Woods.
Sincerely,
JJ Hollie J.J. HOLLIE President and CEO The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce
9320 Lakeside Blvd The Woodlands, TX 77381 281-367-5777 info@woodlandschamber.org www.woodlandschamber.org
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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05 / 31 / 2019
WELCOME from the
CONROE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL As Conroe continues to grow, we tediously track our business development and progress. Contact us for information on the Conroe area today. Greetings from the Conroe EDC! The Conroe Economic Development Council (CEDC) is a publicly funded entity that serves as the lead economic development organization for the Conroe area. We have been assisting business growth and development in our area since the mid to late sixties and came to the forefront in 1995 when the citizens of Conroe passed the ½ cent local sales tax for economic development. Since that time, CEDC has assisted hundreds of new and local businesses involved in manufacturing, logistics and services to grow and expand in our city. As the fastest-growing city in the United States, Conroe has enjoyed a tremendous amount of new development and employment opportunities. Working hand in hand with local and regional business and economic development organizations and our educational community, we have successfully served as a first stop for assistance in expansion and relocation to Conroe. We have a wealth of available research in demographics, land inventory and labor market information. Other available assistance include: incentives for qualified projects, access to workforce training, referrals for services and technical assistance. Please contact us for information about our great city. We stand ready to help those who are considering an expansion or relocation to Conroe and wish to be a vital partner in your move to Montgomery County. Sincerely,
DANIELLE SCHEINER Interim Director Conroe Economic Development Council
505 West Davis Street Conroe, Texas 77301 936-522-7118 | www.gcedc.org The Conroe Economic Development Council
The mission of the Conroe Economic Development Council is to enhance the strength and stability of the greater Conroe economy. CEDC is governed by the seven-member Board of the Conroe Industrial Development Corporation. For more information on the Conroe Economic Development Council, visit www.gcedc.org.
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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A Community Full of Life
DINING
SHOPPING
PARKS & TRAILS
AMENITIES
Valley Ranch is surrounded by world-class amenities including the community water park and the 135-acre Town Grove Park with seven serene lakes and miles of trails. The new Valley Ranch Town Center offers a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options near home.
Valley Ranch, a community Full of Life.
New Homes from the $180s to $400s
VALLEY-RANCH.COM
WELCOME from the
CITY OF WILLIS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Willis is a history-rich community, ready for you to call home. Great schools, communities, colleges and recreation - you are sure to find all you need right here in our community.
On behalf of the City of Willis Economic Development Corporation it is my pleasure to welcome you to the thriving community of Willis Texas. Long on rich history and poised for an exciting future, Willis is strategically located commercially, educationally, recreationally and for affordability. Willis is close enough to Houston to conveniently enjoy all that the 4th largest city in the United States has to offer, yet it is far enough away to have the quality of life associated with a progressive rural community. Willis is known for its great schools in Willis ISD, one of the largest and finest community colleges in the nation in Lone Star College, and is just minutes away from highly ranked Sam Houston State University. That quality of life includes an abundance of recreational opportunities. The Willis area is adjacent to the 21,000 acre Lake Conroe, known for its outstanding fishing and water sports, and serves as the entrance to the beautiful Sam Houston National Forest and recreational areas. These unique features, along with the affordability of living and working in Willis, makes this dynamic city one of the fastest growing regions in the Houston area. The service area population of Willis has increased by 73% since 2000 and with several new master planned communities adding thousands of quality homes the opportunities in the region is bright. The city of Willis is a rapidly developing commercial center for retail and industrial enterprises and the Willis EDC is ready to help any business looking to locate or expand. A wide range of services and support are available to help growing businesses from startups to corporate relocations. A growing and educated workforce, affordable land, quick access to major markets on I 45 and a business supportive environment all make Willis Texas the place for you and your business. Sincerely,
RAY LAUGHTER Director of Economic Development City of Willis Economic Development Corporation 200 N. Bell Street Willis, Texas 77378 936-856-4611 | www.visitwillis.com 14
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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WELCOME from the
HOUSTON AREA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in the Montgomery County area and take advantage of what the community has to offer. Welcome to Houston! You’ve just arrived at 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, and home of the World Champion Houston Astros. As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll probably 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 6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479
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 buy or rent. The 37,000 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 appreciate that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make. More than a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which actually showcases property listings for the entire state of Texas. Our site offers dozens of user-friendly 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 take advantage of everything our incredible community offers.
713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557
Sincerely,
Kenya Burrell-VanWormer 2018 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS® 16
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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A TRADITION OF INNOVATION AND COMPASSION We are honored to serve the growing Northwest Houston communities by providing compassionate, world-class care close to you. Our specialties and services include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Accredited Chest Pain Center Breast Care Center Cancer Center Cardiology Cardiovascular Surgery Childbirth Center Colon and Rectal Surgery Emergency Medicine Gastroenterology General Surgery Imaging and Diagnostic Services Infusion Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Neurology Neurosurgery Obstetrics and Gynecology Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery • Radiation Oncology • Rehabilitation Services • Robotic Surgery • Sleep Center • Spine Center • Sports Performance Services • Stroke Care • Urogynecology • Urology • Vein Clinic • Weight Loss Surgery • Wellness Center • Women’s Services • Wound Care
Visit houstonmethodist.org/willowbrook or call 281.737.2500 to learn more or to find a physician.
18220 State Hwy. 249 | Houston, TX 77070
in this section welcome recreation culture shopping & entertainment
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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e m o c l e W
MONTGOMERY
COUNTY
Located in Montgomery County, Conroe was named number one of the 15 fastest-growing cities with populations of 50,000 or more in 2016. Conroe, Texas saw a growth rate of 7.8 percent from 2015 to 2016 - which us more than 11 times that of the nation.
Since the late 1800s, a winning combination
northward. Lake Conroe was created in
Ten thousand ExxonMobil employees in
of beautiful natural resources and efficient
1973, and some of the finest residential
upstream, downstream and chemical divi-
transportation has fueled the growth of
developments in the country have sprung up
sions will ultimately work at this wooded
Montgomery County and the area that today
around the picturesque shores and wooded
campus, bringing an incredible new vibrancy
encompasses The Woodlands, Conroe and
terrain surrounding the lake. The Woodlands
for the area’s real estate market. Most impor-
many more fast-growing communities.
was dedicated in 1974 as a visionary “New
People have been moving to Montgomery County and The Woodlands since the first settlers arrived more than 100 years ago, attracted by the timber resources of the lush Texas Pineywoods and a growing railroad
Town,” and residents continue to enjoy their “livable forest.” As prosperous as Montgomery County has been over the past 50 years, the biggest
tantly, this new state-of-the-art mega-campus signals that Montgomery County has indisputably arrived as a live/work region that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Downtown, the Energy Corridor or any other part of the Houston metropolitan region.
game changer has come very recently, with
Already,
ExxonMobil now occupying its new 385-acre
becoming evident in new planned commu-
Bush Intercontinental Airport opened in
corporate campus in Spring, just west of
nities breaking ground throughout the
1965,
where I-45 North meets the Hardy Toll Road.
Montgomery County area. Established
network.
pushing
Houston’s
development
the
“ExxonMobil
effect”
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
is
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WELCOME TO MONTGOMERY COUNTY
communities such as The Woodlands continue to thrive and enhance their appeal to residents and visitors alike. The region is enjoying a new focus on quality of life and transportation, with projects such as the exciting Spring Creek Greenway and the Grand Parkway, now open all the way from U.S. 59 South (aka the Southwest Freeway) to U.S. 59 North in the northeast Houston region.
opportunities and beautiful backdrops for homes and communities. One of the area’s most exciting and ambitious projects is the Spring Creek Greenway, which will preserve some of the pristine forests seen by the Akokisa Indians, who roamed the land more than 200 years ago. Now 80 percent complete, the Spring Creek Greenway will conserve 12,000 acres of
Montgomery County has always been a region on the move, from the days of stagecoaches to today’s super jets and express roadways. And it’s always looked to the future, from the railroad and sawmill pioneers of the 1800s, to the leading scientists at the Houston Advanced Research Center today.
The area is home to many large natural areas, such as 163,000-acre Sam Houston National Forest and 1,722-acre W. G. Jones State Forest.
forest on both sides of the creek, making it the longest contiguous forested urban corridor in the nation. Several large anchor parks along the Spring Creek Greenway are ready to enjoy, including 55-acre Dennis Johnston Park, featuring a popular loop trail, a fishing pond, a butterfly
RECREATION
and hummingbird garden, and Big Stone
The forests and waterways that originally attracted settlers to Montgomery County play an important role in the area’s quality of life today, providing recreational
Lodge, available for rental. The Greenway also connects many of the area’s existing natural jewels, including Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens and Jesse Jones Park.
Lake Conroe, a 21,000-acre lake meandering along 21 miles, is the reserve drinking water supply for the City of Houston and offers clean, clear water for recreation, including boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, golfing, swimming, water skiing and much more. Its shores are lined with prestigious communities and resorts.
CULTURE Montgomery County area attracts visitors from all over with major cultural attractions such as the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands. Well-known for pop and rock concerts, the Pavilion is the summer home of the Houston Symphony Orchestra. The Symphony also performs at The Centrum, an 881-seat world-class performance facility, which hosts events by more than 160 community non-profit groups each year, drawing over 350,000 visitors. The Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts opened in 2008 with the mission of bringing world-class art exhibitions to northwest Houston, and has since exhibited everything from European masterworks to contemporary art glass. This museum, along with the Centrum and the Barbara Bush Library, form the growing Cypress Creek Cultural District.
Design. Personalization. Possibilities. Find your inspired new home in North Houston. The Meadows at Imperial Oaks Spring from the $260s
Harmony Spring from the $400s
Lakes at NorthPointe Cypress from the $250s
Harpers Preserve The Woodlands from the $410s
Woodtrace Tomball from the $360s
Kingwood – Village of Royal Brook Kingwood from the $380s
ashtonwoods.com © 2017 Ashton Woods Homes. All rights reserved. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades or options; community association and golf fees may be required. Plans, specifications, pricing, incentives, features, elevations, and materials subject to change without notice. Square footage and dimensions are approximate, subject to change and may vary in construction. Renderings, maps and displays are artists’ conceptions and not actual depiction of home or its surroundings. Actual position of home on lot to be determined by site and plot plans; basements available subject to site conditions. Community improvements and amenities based on current plans and subject to change with no obligation to be completed. This is not an offer to sell real estate, or solicitation to buy real estate, in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law or where prior registration is required, including New York and New Jersey. Please see Sales Representative for additional information. 5.17
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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The Crighton Theatre in downtown Conroe stages everything from children’s plays to concerts and musicals in a beautifully restored 1934 building.
SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT From modern to historic, the area is home to some of the most unique shopping destinations in the Houston area. Market Street in The Woodlands is an award-winning mixed-use town center and one of the region’s finest shopping and entertainment destinations. Market Street
has more than 75 national and specialty retailers and restaurants, along with public art, cinemas, a Wi-Fi enabled Central Park, and a hotel. Nearby, The Woodlands Mall offers a distinguished collection of over 160 exciting stores and inspiring restaurants. In fact, The Woodlands alone boasts 11 million square feet of shopping, dining, hospitality and entertainment. An additional 700,000 square feet of Montgomery County shopping is coming in late 2017, with the anticipated opening of 336 Marketplace, a centerpiece of the new Grand Central Park community at I-45 North and Loop 336 in Conroe. A few miles south, Old Town Spring preserves one of the area’s most historic business districts, with everything from charming cafes to quaint boutiques. Special events such as Springfest and the Texas Crawfish Festival make Old Town Spring an even livelier place to visit. The area is also home to Wet ‘n’ Wild SplashTown, the region’s largest water amusement park, and the Grand Texas destination development is planning to open in phases on a 610-acre site at I-69 and S.H. 242.
TRANSPORTATION Transportation has always been relatively easy in Montgomery County. In pioneer days, the rivers, streams and railroads delivered goods to markets on the Gulf Coast and throughout the country. Today, one of the world’s busiest airports and a growing network of highways and transit options provides residents with convenient access to
Any of the Texas based tags (the HCTRA
Improvements to I-45 between the Sam
EZTag,
NTTA
Houston Tollway and Downtown are also
TollTag) will work on the Grand Parkway
in the works and will be a great benefit
and on the rest of the toll roads in Houston
for Montgomery County residents who
and across Texas.
work in central Houston. METRO Park &
TxDOT
TxTAG
or
The new Tomball Tollway, Hardy Toll Road and I-45 North provide more critical transpor-
Ride services and even water taxis in The Woodlands round out the area’s diverse
tation links for the Montgomery County area.
mobility infrastructure.
Now in the final design phase, the Hardy
From nature to commerce, it’s easy to see
Downtown Connector will extend the
why Montgomery County is one of the
U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59 North, bisecting
Hardy Toll Road from its current terminus
nation’s fastest-growing counties, with job
the region on a southwest-to-northeast axis,
at the 610 Loop all the way into downtown
growth and family income outpacing the
and making it possible to drive nonstop
Houston, alleviating congestion at the Loop.
national average.
from Fort Bend County to Montgomery
When this connector is completed, the
County. The Grand Parkway passes right by
Hardy Toll Road will be an approximately
In the next chapter, we’ll take a look at some
the newly opened ExxonMobil campus and
25-mile express route from downtown
of the new and established communities that
many new developments in the area.
Houston to just south of The Woodlands.
make the area such a great place to live.
the Houston region and the world. The Grand Parkway, also known as State Highway 99, has opened all the way from
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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in this section cities neighborhoods master planned communities county maps
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS Home to lakes, forests, gently rolling hills, and all the conveniences, Montgomery County delights newcomers with historic small-town charm and leading-edge master-planned communities.
Montgomery County is a vibrant mosaic of old towns abuzz with renewed vitality and new communities nestled in the woods. With its beautiful environment, highly regarded schools, convenient network of roadways and growing number of major employers such as ExxonMobil new residents from all over are making the area home. Newcomers will find a tremendous variety of homes and neighborhoods to choose from – including large-lot communities, lakefront and golf course developments, and masterplanned communities of all sizes. Here are brief profiles of some of Montgomery County’s most appealing neighborhoods and communities. More information is available at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
CONROE The largest city and county seat of Montgomery County is named after lumberman Isaac Conroe, who founded a sawmill there in 1881. The new city was originally called
Conroe’s Switch, since it sat at the junction
Conroe’s Loop 336, this 331-acre commu-
of two railroads. Shortened to Conroe, the
nity offers something few of its regional
city prospered because of its thriving lumber
competitors can match – genuine topog-
and oil industries, and for one brief period
raphy with scenic hills and bluffs. With
it boasted more millionaires per capita than
new homes priced from the $300,000s to
another other U.S. city.
$500,000, Graystone Hills offers amenities including greenbelt trails, a nature preserve,
Today, Conroe is booming like never before,
parks and a recreation center with a resort-
as Houston’s growth continues its northward
style swimming pool. Part of the highly
march, and ExxonMobil’s new campus
regarded Conroe ISD, homes in the commu-
opens and fills up. The city is home to two
nity are within close proximity to schools at
craft beer breweries and a distillery, and
every grade level.
it shows off its proud history at the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park.
Located near The Woodlands, Harper’s
Conroe has 24 city parks and a lively historic
Preserve
downtown filled with two antique malls,
preserve on Harper’s Horsepen Branch, a
two live performance theaters, art galleries,
natural stream. Planned for 1,700 homes,
eateries and much more.
Harper’s Preserve has a gated entrance,
surrounds
a
beautiful
nature
private streets, front-yard maintenance, and Several new communities have recently
abundant amenities including the West
opened in the Conroe area, including Gray-
Village Recreation Center, with a commu-
stone Hills by Friendswood Development
nity pool, an outdoor kitchen, a playground,
Company. Located near I-45 North and
trails, and facilities for bowling, bocce ball
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23
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Photo Courtesy of Woodforest
and horseshoes. Kids will love climbing on the giant boulders overlooking a scenic lake. Home styles range from low-maintenance patio homes to large estate homes. Grand Central Park is a new masterplanned mixed-use community located in the City of Conroe that just celebrated its grand opening jamboree. Combining living, working and playing, the community provides excellent access to everything Montgomery County has to offer, as well as close proximity to Houston’s new Energy Corridor and ExxonMobil campus. Located just 5 miles north of The Woodlands along Interstate 45 and S. Loop 336, Grand Central Park is dedicated to protecting the woods that outline the property and homes are nestled among nature trails, parks, lakes and many more outdoor amenities. Six leading homebuilders will offer a wide variety of patio homes, townhomes, luxury villas and traditional single-family. www.grandcentralparktx.com Nature is a neighbor in the master- planned community of Imperial Oaks. Just minutes from the Woodlands, the Meadow at Imperial Oaks has all the elements for families to blossom – pools and playgrounds, shopping and family fun, easy access to the roads to work, the airport, or nearby medical facilities. And the Conroe ISD is an excellent place for young minds to grow. www.themeadowsatimperialoaks.com.
24
Boardwalk Apartments - Photo Courtesy of Woodland CVB
Stewart’s Forest is a breathtaking masterplanned community with gently rolling terrain, located less than a mile from the key crossroads of I-45 North and Loop 336 in Conroe. This heavily wooded community has meandering greenbelts and a recreation center with a swimming pool and playground. Part of highly regarded Conroe ISD, Stewart’s Forest is convenient to everything great about Montgomery Country, from Lake Conroe and nearby parks and forests, to the shopping and entertainment of The Woodlands. www.stewartsforest.net
LAKE CONROE This 22,000-acre lake is one of the natural crown jewels of Montgomery County, along with its pristine national and state forests. The 157 miles of shoreline surrounding this scenic lake are ringed by some of the area’s most beautiful communities, including April Sound, Bentwater and Walden on Lake Conroe. Many of these communities have enhanced their gorgeous natural backdrop by adding golf courses, tennis courts, country clubs and other upscale amenities. A manmade lake that opened in 1973, Lake Conroe is fairly built out in terms of development along its shoreline, but its communities are still highly sought after for permanent and vacation homes. Public access and public boat launching is available from several parks, including Lake Conroe
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
Park, Scott’s Ridge Swim Area and the vast Sam Houston National Forest.
KINGWOOD/LAKE HOUSTON Kingwood
is
Montgomery
County’s
neighbor to the east, and the two share many positive features, like beautiful forests and lakes. Kingwood is part of the Humble area, which like Montgomery County is steeped in a rich history of settlers, loggers and oil wealth. And like Montgomery, Kingwood and Humble have found modern prosperity as two of the most popular areas for new community development in the Houston region. Slightly older than The Woodlands, Kingwood opened in 1971 as a partnership of Friendswood Development Company (at the time an Exxon subsidiary) and the legendary King Ranch of Texas. With its lakes, tree-lined streets, country clubs, parks and secluded residential villages, this 14,000-acre community has been one of the region’s most sought-after addresses for decades. Popularly known as “The Livable Forest,” Kingwood is largely completed and is home to more than 65,000 happy residents. Opportunities to own a new home remain in two of its most prestigious areas, Barrington Kingwood and Oakhurst at Kingwood.
Barrington Kingwood is a private 200-acre enclave located just inside the gates of Kingwood. Homes in Barrington Kingwood are surrounded by the back nine holes of the Kingwood Country Club’s scenic Lakes Golf Course, offering stunning views. The key amenity is The Manor House, an 18,000-square-foot clubhouse offering a fitness center, an infinity edge pool with a hot tub and sun deck, tennis courts, a billiards room and much more. This gated community is literally across the street from baseball and soccer fields, parks and Lake House, and a casual stroll from shopping and dining. Residents who love golf can choose from Kingwood’s five championship courses.
to all homeowners in Kingwood, including
reside in new and established communi-
more than 500 acres of parks and nature
ties, drawn by the area’s natural beauty,
reserves and more than 75 miles of trails.
proximity to commerce, and enduring small-
Shopping and entertainment are offered at
town charm.
A 700-acre community planned for 2,200 homes, Oakhurst at Kingwood is one of the final Kingwood villages to be developed by Friendswood Development Company. The community boasts the Oakhurst Golf Course, along with a recreation center and neighborhood parks. Residents also enjoy the amazing variety of amenities available
MONTGOMERY
Kingwood Town Center and Kings Harbor. One of the area’s newest and most inno-
MAGNOLIA Adjacent to The Woodlands, Magnolia was settled in the late 1840s and today calls itself “the community of unity.” It has been awarded Recognized Scenic City Certification by Scenic Texas. Magnolia retains its small-town charm even as it becomes a popular location for large-lot communities, especially those that can accommodate horses.
vative
communities
is
Woodforest,
a
3,000-acre development that ranks among the top 20 communities in the U.S. for new-home sales. Nestled in a heavily wooded environment between The Woodlands and Lake Conroe, Woodforest has a 27-hole championship golf course, parks, playgrounds, a splash park, and miles of hike-and-bike
trails.
Unique
amenities
include Forest Island, a 16-acre tennis and aquatics center, and Admiral Bark Park, named after the community’s first resident canine. Nestled beneath a canopy of oak
One of the oldest towns in the state, Mont-
trees, Lily Pad Park is an awesome water
gomery is the birthplace of the Lone Star
park for the entire family.
flag of Texas. It began as a trading post in 1826, and while the city itself hasn’t
Overall, Woodforest devotes 700 acres
grown much, the area is still popular with
to recreation and natural open space.
newcomers. Just outside Montgomery, tens
Homesites include golf course and lake
of thousands of contented homeowners
frontage, and are as large as one acre.
OPENING DOORS throughout HOUSTON
A move opens new doors for all of us. At John Daugherty, Realtors, we guide clients just like you across new thresholds throughout Houston and we’ve been doing it for more than 50 years. Excellent customer service is the core of what we do. Our expert staff of relocation specialists have high standards which have earned them the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World Crown of Excellence and Pinnacle Awards.
Established 1967
If your planning a move, contact Houston’s Awarding Winning Relocation Leader - John Daugherty, Realtors. Contact us for our exclusive complimentary newcomer guide. 713.561.6829 | aincorvia@johndaugherty.com | johndaugherty.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
25
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Montgomery County
430'
WALKER
Grangerland LR
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
494
59
The largest county in the eastern half of state; level; typically coastal surface and soils; many bayous, canals for artificial drainage; Lake Houston, Sheldon Reservoir; partly forested.
59
Stafford Missouri City
90A
UP
LR
521
Harris County © Texas Almanac
0
26
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
288
865
South Houston
William P. Hobby Airport
UP
134
225
Deer Park LR LR
330
SAN JACINTO MONUMENT
UP
La Porte
146
Baytown 99
Morgans Point
146
Shoreacres Taylor Johnson Lake Village Space 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 8
k
Clear Cree
35
G
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
D
PTRA
BATTLESHIP TEXAS
10
ton el us ann Ho Ch ip Sh
Retail Sales..............$88,892,139,887
1876
N
Ferry
Pasadena
BNSF
BE
Channelview Free
Galena Park
1942
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
on
T
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8
Jacinto City
610
UP
R
UP
6
FT. BEND PARKWA Y
Prop. Value............$472,155,923,085
FO
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CHAMBERS
1093
Per Capita Inc......................$55,088
to
u
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o Bay
99
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90
UP
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10
ayou lo B
SHELDON WILDLIFE MGMT AREA
Y
Barker
2100
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v Ri
90
UP Spring Hilshire Vil. 610 Valley Hedwig Hunters Addicks Vil. Creek Vil. Piney Point Vil. Bunker West Hill Vil. University Place Alief 69 Bellaire Southside Place 8
SHELDON LAKE STATE PARK
Huffman
Sa
UP Katy
Wages......................$37,346,009,148
HOUSTON
Addicks Reservoir
Civilian labor......................2,279,367
yo u Greens Ba
LR
Unemployed.................................5.3
59
UP
HARDY AD TOLL RO
529
July mean max...........................90.7
525
Aldine
Jersey Village
6
Atascocita
George Bush 69 Humble Intercontinental Airport
8
1960
Cypre
1960
nt o
Cypress ek ss Cre
LR
LR
RT
LR
BE
99
Kingwood
rk Fo i st We Jac n Sa
SF BN
Klein
6
R
Jan. mean. min..........................43.4
LR
290
Spring
2920
UP
LLE
Rainfall (in.)...............................56.81
99
WA
Altitude (ft.).................sea level–310
Hockley
LR
Tomball
2920 LR
Waller
1485
UP
LI
LR
MONTGOMERY
45
Hufsmith
eek Spring Cr
Bay
2978 249
310'
st
362 1488
Area (sq.mi.)..........................1,777.5 Land area(sq.mi.)..................1,703.5
Retail Sales.........................$7,833,735,189
LR
UP
362
Prop. Value.......................$54,317,835,443
ve
Change fm 2010........................10.9
1736
Per Capita Inc...............................$60,490
al
Population..........................4,538,028
69
ree k
Harris County
1485
Porter
to
HOUSTON
Wages.................................$2,191,523,418
Ea San st Fork Jacinto
Sp rin gC
Unemployed..........................................4.8 Patton Village Roman Forest
UP
Montgomery County © Texas Almanac
rk Fo r st Rive We in c Ja
LR
1314
San
HARRIS
45
242
New Caney
99
Civilian labor..................................259,473
Splendora
Woodbranch
Shenandoah The Ridge Woodlands Oak North
July mean max. ..................................93.5
UP
2978
59
2090
re ek
242
Jan. mean. min...................................40.4
TY
Woodloch
LR
Ea San Jacst For into k Ri v er
3083
Fostoria
BNSF
1485
75
UP
Stagecoach Decker Prairie
Rainfall (in.) .......................................48.77
ER
LR LR
Altitude (ft.) ....................................50–430
Cut and Shoot
C
149
8 MILES
LIB
1488
249 U P
0
y ne Ca
WALLER
LR
W.G. JONES STATE FOREST
Mostyn
Pinehurst
TO
CONROE
1774
Land area(sq.mi.)...........................1,041.7
1484
105
336
1488
Area (sq.mi.)...................................1,076.9
N
2854
1486
Magnolia
1484 3083 336
LR
1774
Change fm 2010.................................17.9
CI
SF BN
F
BNS
149
2432
830
Panorama Village
Dobbin
105
ch
Montgomery
SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL FOREST Cr eek
LR
a Pe
Lake Conroe
Population......................................537,559
UP
1097
Willis
JA
Lewis Creek Reservoir
N
149
1486
1097
75
SA
SF BN
1097
Dacus
45
SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL FOREST
UP
1375
GRIMES
Rolling, half timbered; Sam Houston National Forest; loam, sandy, alluvial soils; Lake Conroe and Lewis Creek Reservoir.
1791
149
Woodforest also includes a 90-acre retail and mixed-use area, so residents will be able to shop and work where they live and play.
La Torretta, Lake Conroe photo courtesy of Tower
www.woodforesttx.com
OAK RIDGE NORTH Oak Ridge North is situated just north of Spring and south of Conroe along I-45, with The Woodlands and Shenandoah as close neighbors to the west. It is home to just over 3,000 residents who affectionately refer to it as “What a Hometown Should Be.” The community manages to maintain the hometown feel it was originally known for, with friendly, close-knit neighbors who can walk to schools and the two city parks. And because of its proximity to The Woodlands, Conroe and Houston, residents of Oak Ridge North can easily take advantage of the entertainment, shopping, colleges and universities, and other offerings in the surrounding cities. www.oakridgenorth.com
SHENANDOAH Shenandoah is a small city of about 2,200 that connects The Woodlands to Conroe along I-45 North. The west side of the city is almost entirely residential while commercial and retail property is zoned to the east side of I-45. The Conroe Independent School District sports complex is there and hosts events year-round. One of the first new developments to open in years will give newcomers an opportunity to enjoy the laidback Shenandoah lifestyle. Planned for 92 homes by Pelican Builders, Boulevard Green is located on a 12-acre site at Vision Park Boulevard and Pine Forest Drive. Hallmarks of this gated community include distinctive architecture, low-maintenance living, elegant interiors and affordability – all in a convenient location only minutes from I-45 North and all of the attractions in The Woodlands.
SPRING About 55,000 people reside in Spring, which maintains its small-town appeal while welcoming newcomers to several growing master-planned communities. Spring is known throughout Houston for its quaint, vibrant Old Town Spring shopping and
entertainment district, and the Spring Creek Greenway is enhancing the area’s already considerable natural appeal. Area schools are highly regarded, and major roadways including I-45 North, the Hardy Toll Road and Grand Parkway add to the area’s vitality. The new ExxonMobil campus is located right across I-45 from Spring, and this mega-development has had a huge and positive impact on growth in Spring. Harmony is a popular Spring community that embraces the 12,000-acre Spring Creek Greenway as its veritable backyard. Situated just minutes from I-45 North and the Hardy Toll Road, this wooded 1,000-acre community offers unique amenities such as Barefoot Park, where residents are encouraged to kick off their shoes and enjoy the outdoors. The park has a resort-style pool with a beach-entry lagoon, a splash pad, and a community pavilion with an outdoor fireplace. Coordinated by a dedicated lifestyle director, the community presents events all years, like Pumpkin Fest and Pictures with the Easter Bunny. Harmony is planned for 2,600 homes, with a variety of award-winning homebuilders and homesites ranging from 55 to 75 feet wide. www.harmony-houston.com
TOMBALL Once called Peck, Tomball was renamed in 1907 in honor of its local congressman,
Thomas Henry Ball, who played a major role in the development of the Port of Houston. Today, Tomball is home to about 11,000 residents who appreciate its smalltown atmosphere and proximity to The Woodlands and other fast-growing communities in the Montgomery County area. Bounded by State Highway 249 and FM 2978 – with FM 2920 as Main Street –Tomball is ideally located just 28 miles northwest of downtown Houston. With one of the highest elevations in the region, Tomball has fertile, forested land that drew farmers and ranchers in the early 19th century. Later, railroads and then oil and gas brought more prosperity to Tomball. Today, the area is home to thriving master-planned communities. Adjacent to The Woodlands, just off Huffsmith and Wiseman Roads, is Lakes at Creekside. Surrounded by wooded beauty and eight lakes, and just minutes from the Grand Parkway, The Woodlands and the new ExxonMobil campus, this master-planned community is wonderfully welcoming. Lakes of Creekside is comprised of just over 600 home sites, and has a tremendous array of amenities not usually offered in a close-knit community such as bike paths, splash pads, a pavilion and more. Lakes of Creekside is located within both the Tomball and Klein Independent School Districts. www. lakesatcreekside.com Wildwood at Northpointe by Friendswood Development Company is located just off S.H.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
27
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
249. This 700-acre community has beautiful
centerpiece, with more amenities including
born. The railway and fertile land to grow
lakes, miles of wooded trails, tennis courts,
an Equestrian Center, miles of hike and bike
watermelon, cotton and other cash crops, as
parks, and a clubhouse with a sparkling pool.
trails, and numerous parks and green spaces.
well as trees for a thriving timber industry
Willowbrook Mall is nearby, and 11 Tomball
Overlooking the main lake, The Lakehouse
allowed the community to grow. Straddling
parks are only minutes away. Burroughs Park,
Lodge offers residents a place to play, enter-
I45 and north of Conroe, today Willis is the
a 330-acre recreational area, is close by, as
tain, work out, and enjoy life, unbridled.
gateway to Lake Conroe and the home of a
are many golf courses and country clubs.
www.willowcreekranchtx.com
highly rated school district.
www.wildwoodcommunities.com
All of these communities are part of the highly
opment community in Tomball, is a gated
School District, and higher education is
enclave at the corner of S.H. 249 and FM
offered at Lone Star College – Tomball.
149. Woodtrace has beautiful amenities
Healthcare is nearby at the Tomball
including 23-acre Woodtrace Lake and
Regional Medical Center. The city hosts
Central Park, which has a natural creek
many popular festivals throughout the year,
with footbridges and trails. The recreation
including the Tomball Music Festival, the
In recent years, The Woodlands has come into
Rails & Trails Mudbug Festival and Tomball
its own as a total community where people
Bluegrass Festival.
live, work and play, with the flourishing of
center offers a pool, park and clubhouse. www.woodtracecommunity.com
regarded
Tomball
Independent
THE WOODLANDS
Woodtrace, another Friendswood Devel-
Opened in 1974, The Woodlands has reigned for decades as one of the top-selling masterplanned communities in the U.S., widely admired for its beautifully preserved environment and quality amenities.
The Woodlands Town Center, the Market Willowcreek Ranch, a development of
WILLIS
Street shopping and entertainment district and
Caldwell Communities, is another popular
When the Willis brothers donated land to
other key components. The Woodlands has
Tomball community. This gated commu-
the Great Northern Railroad for a track
also become a major employment center, and
nity has a sparkling 50-acre lake as its
from Houston to Chicago, a town was
without doubt the community’s success and
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 Q3 2018) City
Composite 100%
Grocery 13.61%
Housing 27.59%
Utilities 1 0.06%
Transportation 9.59%
Healthcare Misc. 4.00% 35.15%
Atlanta
99.0
103.3
96.5
Austin
98.1
87.6
101.6
Boston
146.7
105.8
Chicago
123.8
Cleveland
100.0
Dallas/Fort Worth
103.1
99.7
105.5
Denver
111.7
97.4
134.6
86.3
103.9 109.0 97.5
Houston New York (Manhattan)
97.7 240.0
86.6 100.0
107.5 101.6
93.8
91.7
100.4 101.9
207.5
127.5 112.0
135.8 129.3
107.9
157.2
92.4 126.7
101.5 114.1
111.8
87.7
99.5 101.6
100.9 105.0
138.0
Phoenix
95.7
97.9
Raleigh
94.7 102.7
505.2
105.5
98.5
89.0 103.5
116.5
130.2
95.5 104.9 92.7 84.0
93.1 99.0
San Francisco
194.1
126.3
363.7
122.2
Seattle
149.6
126.9
199.4
114.4 133.0
Tuscon
28
93.7 102.1
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
79.7
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
132.6
95.1 96.1
102.5
103.2
105.5 108.1 91.3 94.8 115.3
145.2
97.7 92.8 100.2 98.8 125.1
128.8
123.7 135.8 100.3 99.8
quality of life drew the attention of Exxon-
An exceptional collection of larger-than-life
Mobil, which built its new campus just south
sculptures and outdoor art installations adorns
of the 28,000-acre community.
public spaces.
Now home to nearly 100,000 residents, The
Stillwater is a residential community that
Woodlands offers amenities including 190
will evoke timeless southern sophistication
miles of hike and bike trails, 121 parks and
to create a hometown beyond compare. The
seven golf courses. The Woodlands will
homesites are planned to border community
ultimately include 8,000 acres of natural undeveloped land in parks and nature preserves.
lakes and reserves, easily accommodated by the surrounding W.G. Jones State Forest. Still-
The Woodlands lifestyle is centered on the environment, the arts, technology and healthy living. The Woodlands Town Center
MAGNOLIA
to premier local attractions such as The Wood-
Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary GenuWine Tasting Room The Magnolia Stroll
lands Market Street, The Woodlands Mall and The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
heart of the commercial district. The 1.4-mile
www.stillwatertx.com
restaurants and plaza areas, with water taxis providing transportation between these areas
CONROE
Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm B-52 Brewing Co., Crighton Theatre 7 Acre Wood, Copperhead Brewery
water is located close to I-45 and within minutes
features The Woodlands Waterway at the long waterway links office buildings, shops,
THE WOODLANDS The Woodlands Children’s Museum George Mitchell Nature Preserve The Woodlands Farmers Market The Woodlands Waterway May Valley Park & Sprayground
Three highly rated school districts – Conroe, Magnolia and Tomball ISD – along with
and more destinations including the 1.3
acclaimed private and preparatory schools
million square-foot The Woodlands Mall and
give residents access to excellent choices for
Market Street. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell
education. The Woodlands is also home to
Pavilion, one of the most popular outdoor
Lone Star College- Montgomery, and two
amphitheaters in the world, hosts national
renowned healthcare campuses, Memorial
touring shows and cultural performances.
Hermann The Woodlands and St. Luke’s.
MONTGOMERY
Sunshine Farm, Old Iron Works Cork This! Winery
SPRING
Old Town Spring TGR Exotics Wildlife Park Pundt Park, Atkinson Farms
TOMBALL Kleb Woods Nature Preserve Tomball Museum Center Tomball Depot, Granny’s Corner Tomball Farmers Market
finding a new home just got easier Cody Cooper Founder/REALTOR® 512.770.6526
SPROUTHOMES.COM
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
29
in this section temporary lodging rent or buy choosing a realtor mortgage options
30
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
The
HOME FRONT The rapid growth of Montgomery County means newcomers can find everything they need for a smooth move – from abundant temporary housing choices, to skilled Realtors and custom builders who are eager to help.
TEMPORARY LODGING
the 6% state hotel tax; see the hotel manage-
Sometimes, newcomers need temporary housing while they continue their home search, or while they wait for their new home to be built or renovated. Like most big cities, Houston has many options for temporary housing, but perhaps it’s even truer here, because companies are experienced at serving the historically heavy influxes of newcomers who work in Houston’s thriving energy, medical and aerospace sectors.
ment for information on how to apply for
Many multifamily complexes have corporate programs with fully furnished units and short-term leases available. Hotels are another option, including the growing number of extended-stay hotels in the area. When staying in a hotel for 30 days or longer, Texas law allows for an exemption of
apartment, or would you prefer a single-family
Consider the location and style of housing that
Bottom line: the rapid growth of Montgomery County and environs means that newcomers will find plenty of temporary housing options throughout the area – from extended-stay hotels and corporate lodging,
would best suit you during your temporary
to single-family homes and condos for rent.
this exemption.
stay. Is proximity to work the top consideration during this hectic period? Or it might be most important to stay near an airport if you’ll be doing a lot of traveling during the transition. Would you be most comfortable in a hotel or home or townhome? Good sources for locating temporary housing include your company’s human resources department, your Realtor and/or builder, and the Internet.
RENT OR BUY? There can be advantages to both renting or buying a new home, depending on one’s immediate priorities and long-term goals. According to Freddie Mac, renting can make more sense if you have a career or lifestyle that requires you to move frequently, if you prefer a set monthly budget and cannot afford unforeseen home-maintenance expenses, or if you don’t have the time or desire for home maintenance.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
31
Choosing a Realtor The right realtor can save you thousands. Buying or selling a house involves real estate law, title insurance policies, home warranties, home-lending practices, appraisals, inspections, hazard insurance, surveys and other issues; the services of a realtor are highly recommended. Especially for people new to the area, a realtor can save time and money and provide local knowledge. A realtor can swiftly locate homes that fit with your lifestyle, price range, educational needs, and location.
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT REALTOR?
More reasons to rent: if you enjoy having amenities such as a pool, gym, concierge and tennis courts; if you plan on downsizing your living space or retiring soon; and if you are experiencing a financial setback and/or rebuilding your credit. Freddie Mac says buying may be best if you have reliable income, good credit and documentation for your assets; if you can afford at least a 5% down payment and closing costs; and if you are financially able to take on home maintenance and improvements.
First, understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® cannot discriminate against someone based on race, religion, gender, handicap, family status or national origin.
It may also be better to buy if you want to build equity and qualify for homeowner tax breaks and credits; if you have an adequate cash reserve to withstand loss of employment or another financial setback; and if you plan on staying in your home at least four years.
Talk to a number of realtors before making your decision, talk to some of their previous clients and review their current and recent listings. You might want to ask the following:
Advantages of buying a new home include “new” everything – from carpets to appliances. Energy efficiency is another big consideration. New homes can include the latest high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, along with advanced insulation and window products that weren’t available 10 or 20 years ago.
• How long have you worked in real estate?
• Is real estate your full-time job?
• Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers?
• Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood?
• What is the average price of properties that you close?
• How many closings do you have each year?
• Do you work on a team?
• D o you have any designations, cer tifications, awards or special training?
SPECIALTY CERTIFICATIONS Realtors with the CBR (Certified Buyer Representative) are exclusively committed to providing excellent buyer representation and know current real-estate practices. Realtors can also be certified as Texas Affordable Housing Specialists, which recognizes training in green technologies that can make a home more affordable. Realtors certified by Earth Advantage are trained to spot and understand the advantages of green construction. An EcoBroker designation means a realtor has extensive training in conservation and green energy. Your realtor should be someone who is an expert on the area and the industry. But she should also be easy to work with and willing to listen – the process should be enjoyable as well as productive.
32
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
NEW HOME VS. EXISTING HOME
A new home will require less maintenance in the short term, and new homes are wired and capable of accommodating the latest technologies. There are also advantages to buying an existing home, especially in Montgomery County, which offers plenty of resale homes ranging from historic farmhouses to homes just a few years old. Existing homes might be less expensive, have established landscaping, or other “extra” features, such as window coverings, that may not be included in new homes, and traditional floor plans. Used homes may also have a track record of appreciation over the years, although Realtor. com cautions that past performance does not guarantee future market appeal.
CUSTOM HOME BUILDING One of the great things about Montgomery County is the diversity of communities and
custom home of your dreams. The choices
tural element that’s a family treasure or recent
are almost endless. You can find an acreage
discovery, that’s very easy to do when building
homesite in a community that still feels rural
custom.
The following pages cover the basics of financing a home, along with some special considerations for unique circumstances in the Montgomery County market.
MANAGEABLE, AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLE
OBTAINING A HOME MORTGAGE
an
homesites to choose from for building the
architec-
and pastoral, or you can tap into the increasingly urban vibe of places like The Woodlands Town Center and build a townhome that might look a home in New Orleans or Charleston. You can also find homesites with views of the area’s many golf courses, lakes and parks. And almost everywhere, you’ll find the beautiful trees the area is known for. Also in Montgomery County, you’ll find a wide selection of homebuilders and Realtors who are extremely knowledgeable and experienced in building custom homes in the region. The benefits of building a custom home are getting exactly what you want – from the location of the lot, to the design of the exterior style and interior floor plan. Many buyers have extended multi-generational families or adult children living at home, and garage apartments and ground floor “casitas” (small houses) are popular options for accommodating these family members. Inside, too, a custom home allows you to personalize every aspect of every room – from countertops and flooring, to paint colors and lighting and plumbing fixtures. And if you want to create a special place to incorporate
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
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.
also offered by various government agen-
lending standards that could benefit first-time buyers. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered mortgage corporations, recently 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 cies. Some groups, including teachers, police officers and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs.
HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD? 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 Houston area residents spend typically 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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
33
THE HOME FRONT
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 fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate Experts also suggest that household expenses
rate mortgages are another option. The
not exceed 43 percent of personal income
40-year
before taxes. The mortgage payment, insur-
popular in some parts of the country
ance, credit card balances, utilities, food
where home prices are rising fast, but
and health care as well as any payments on
many experts agree that the tradeoff of a
outstanding loans and leases are expenses,
slightly lower monthly payment for much
while household income includes salary and
more interest paid over the life of the loan
other declared revenue such as dividends and
does not make economic sense.
royalties. In the case of townhomes, condos and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be considered in the overall expenses.
mortgage
has
become
more
For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the mortgage, payment, the interest rate and the term of the loan are fixed and fully self-amortizing, which means at the end of the term,
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. Montgomery County’s most recent THAI was an impressive 1.96, which makes the area more affordable than the overall Houston region, state and nation based on THAI averages.
the principal has been repaid.
mortgages reset according to the terms of the lender.
CLOSING COSTS 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 rate. Closing costs are typically paid by the buyer at the time of closing.
CREDIT REPORT Lenders will require a credit report from the
The purchase price less the down payment
credit bureau that has collected your credit
is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing
history for the past seven to 10 years. Credit
the principal by the number of payments in
reports document your financial history and
a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding
reflect the amount of credit you have, the time-
the interest determines the monthly house
liness with which you pay your bills, if you
payment. Escrow money for taxes and insur-
have declared bankruptcy and other factors
ance is added to the payments according to
that give the lender a financial snapshot.
the terms of the lender, and the amounts are recalculated annually.
Traditional mortgage lenders require an established credit history, but some lenders
The Alternative Mortgage Instrument
may offer more flexible mortgage programs
(AMI) is a loan in which at least one of
for people with limited or no established
the four components varies. The most
credit record.
common AMI is the Adjustable Rate
MORTGAGE OPTIONS
Mortgage with a variable interest rate.
Credit reports also carry your credit score,
mortgages
Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins
a numeric ranking between 300 and 850
are common today. A standard 30-year
low and periodically adjusts either up or
that many lenders use. It is calculated using
fixed rate mortgage is the most common
down within limits based on a pre-spec-
five factors: payment history, amount of
way to finance a home; 15-year fixed
ified index.
outstanding debt, length of credit history,
Several
34
different
types
of
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
The initial low rate, and
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
new credit and the sources of credit in use. In
about credit unions is available from the
addition to informing lenders of credit-wor-
Texas Credit Union League and the Credit
thiness, your credit score can also determine
Union National Association.
the interest rate you pay. The better the credit score, the lower the interest rate. More information on credit scoring is at myfico.com.
PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE Homeowner insurance is required by mortgage lenders, and is essential even if a home is paid for. Buyers are typically asked to pay one year of insurance at closing, with
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is
premiums included in monthly mortgage
beneficial because it gives sellers a level of
payments.
assurance that the prospective buyer can mining coverage is the responsibility of the
completion of a loan application and some-
buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract
times a fee. Pre-qualification, on the other
to purchase a house is accepted by the seller.
hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a prospective buyer might qualify for.
The Texas Board of Insurance is a valuable source of information. Many companies offer
TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may
discounts when home insurance is combined with auto coverage, life insurance, health insurance and other types of insurance that may
include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and
be needed. In the Houston and Montgomery
PMI payments. For more information, visit
County areas, flood insurance is required
irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
or recommended by mortgage companies in some neighborhoods. Check with your
BANKS Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competitive
builder, Realtor or lender to determine the status of your property. www.tdi.texas.gov.
rates. In addition to checking and savings
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS
accounts, their mortgage lending is another
A variety of programs are designed to help
option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about
first-time buyers, including FHA loans with
fees associated with the bank’s services,
a 3 percent down payment discussed at the
different accounts, minimum balance require-
beginning of this article.
ments, ATM charges, availability of funds policy, direct deposit and other options.
Montgomery County, Harris County and
Chesmar Homes offers a unique choice new home M • P • G [Modern Design Performance Guaranteed Green Certified]. It means a highly-efficient home that will save you money on energy costs every month in neighborhoods all around Houston:
CONROE Wedgewood Falls
$310s-$360s | 281.362.0050
Harper’s Preserve | Close Out $290s-$350s | 713.806.2536
Hills of Westlake
$220s-$320s | 281.253.0063
MONTGOMERY Woodforest
Chesmar Townhomes $190s-$210s | 832.712.1486 Arbor $260s-$300s | 832.492.2267 Fortunata $220s-$260s | 832.712.1486
The Woodlands May Valley
$260s - $300s | 281.770.2236
Contact the Texas Department of Banking
buyer assistance programs that can provide
at www.dob.texas.gov.
down
payment
assistance
and
Fish Creek Thoroughfare
other governmental entities also offer homespecial
financing for buyers who meet certain house-
CREDIT UNIONS
hold income and purchase price criteria.
Credit unions are a good source to check for
Other programs include Southeast Texas
mortgage loans because they may offer lower
Housing Finance - www.sethfc.com and
rates. Historically, credit unions have been
the Harris County Downpayment Assis-
employer-based financial institutions but
tance Program - www.harriscountytx.gov/
today it is common for credit unions to be
csd. Information is also available from the
community-based, meaning that anyone can
Texas Department of Housing & Commu-
use a credit union as their primary financial
nity Affairs - www.tdhca.state.tx.us. Realtors,
institution. Members are insured for up to
mortgage lenders and builders are also good
$250,000 per account by the National Credit
sources of information about available home-
Union Administration. More information
buyer assistance programs.
Hills of West Lake Wedgewood Falls Woodforest
1488
2978
Map not to scale
105
336 45 242
Woodlands Parkway
The Woodlands 99
Harper’s Preserve 99
y rkwa Grand Pa
2920
Hardy Toll Road
itive market. Pre-approval requires the
Kuykendahl
Selecting an insurance company and deter-
Huffsmith-Kohrville
obtain a mortgage – a big plus in a compet-
Bush Int. Airport
249
Expand your ideas about the cost of owning a home with new home
CHESMAR.com HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
35
in this section STAAR public schools private schools higher education
36
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
EDUCATION IN MONTGOMERY Home to some of the largest and most highly rated public school districts in Texas and the U.S., Montgomery County offers its residents an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities. Higher education is another strength.
Along with beautiful lakes, forests and a
at grades 5 and 8; social studies at grade 8;
STEM occupation paid about $80,000 annu-
thriving economy, Montgomery County
and end-of-course assessments for English
ally; roughly 1.7 times the average yearly
offers excellent educational opportunities.
1, English 11, Algebra 1, biology, and U.S.
U.S. wage.
There is a variety of highly regarded public
history. All of the districts in Montgomery
school districts, ranging from small-town
County met approved standards in 2016.
The
Texas
neering
gems to some of the largest in the Houston more
information
and
science,
and
technology,
mathematics
engi-
(T-STEM)
area. The region also has a wide range of
For
complete
initiative provides a foundational approach
private and parochial schools, along with
district and individual school information,
to empower teachers, inspire students and
a growing list of opportunities for higher
visit the Texas Education Association at
advance STEM education. There are 70
education.
www.tea.texas.gov
T-STEM Academies and seven blended
STUDENT ASSESSMENT TESTING: STAAR
STEM EDUCATION
emies serving more than 40,000 students
STEM, an acronym for science, technology,
across the state.
Early College High School/T-STEM Acad-
The
State
of
Texas
Assessments
of
engineering and math education, is an
Academic Readiness (STAAR) measures
interdisciplinary and applied approach that
TEXAS CHARTER SCHOOLS
a child’s performance, as well as academic
is coupled with hands-on, problem-based
Charter schools were authorized by the
growth, college and career readiness. Results
learning.
Texas Legislature in 1995 to provide an
from STAAR calculate annual school and
alternative to traditional public schools.
district performance ratings. Annual Assess-
According to a recent poll of U.S. CEOs,
Open-enrollment charter schools are public
ments cover: reading and mathematics,
employers will need 1.6 million new STEM
schools that have the flexibility to adapt to
grades 3-8; writing at grades 4 and 7; science
employees by 2019. In 2013, the average
the educational needs of individual students.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
37
M O N T G O M E R Y E D U C AT I O N
Charter schools provide a personalized
Conroe ISD is a community of individ-
nearly 54,000 students and consists of 56
learning environment that promotes greater
uals working together to achieve the best
campuses. The appealing size of the district
student achievement.
for students. The District is proud of the
and the small-town surroundings of the
accomplishments of
Conroe area foster strong involvement by
students, teachers
In the State of Texas, charter schools operate
and
helped
parents and the surrounding community.
under and receive academic accountability
make Conroe ISD a great school district.
From specialized programs and the latest in
ratings from the Texas Education Agency.
Achievement scores continue to increase
technology to outstanding extracurricular
All charter students in Texas take the same
and are well above the State and national
and athletic programs, Conroe ISD strives
STAAR test as traditional public school
averages. The mean SAT score for the
to meet the diverse needs of students at all
students. Charter schools receive state funds
District is 1556 compared to 1484 for the
grade levels.
based on the average daily attendance of
nation and 1393 for the State. The mean
students (same as traditional public schools);
ACT score is 23.2 with the nation and State
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
however, they do not receive funds from
at 20.8 and 20.6 respectively. Conroe ISD
www.cfisd.net • 281-897-4000
local tax revenue.
also has a graduation rate of 95.7%, one of
administrators
who
have
the highest in Texas.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Located approximately 20 miles northwest of downtown Houston, Cypress-Fairbanks
For the sixth year in a row, TxSmart-
ISD is a destination district for college/
Schools, awarded the highest rating of
career preparation, extracurricular prowess,
Conroe ISD
5-Stars to Conroe ISD for having high
and award-winning programs. The 23nd
www.conroeisd.net • 936-709-7752
academic standards while spending effi-
largest school district in the nation, and 3rd
ciently. And speaking of efficient spending,
largest in the Houston area, CFISD is also
Conroe ISD’s tax rate is one of the lowest
one of the fastest-growing districts nation-
in the Greater Houston metropolitan area
wide with a student enrollment of about
at $1.28.
115,000. These students are taking advan-
Conroe ISD is a 348-square mile school district that is geographically diverse and includes The Woodlands, Shenandoah, Oak Ridge North, Conroe, and Caney Creek, as
tage of a district that was, for the fourth
well as several other smaller towns, commu-
Conroe ISD offers a comprehensive core
straight year, awarded the highest possible
nities, and unincorporated areas. As the
academic program, a vast array of athletics, a
rating of Met Standard in the Texas Educa-
13th largest district in Texas and the 71st
cutting-edge Career and Technical Education
tion Agency’s accountability ratings.
largest in the U.S., Conroe ISD serves over
curriculum, and a slate of fine arts courses to
59,000 students across 60 campuses and is
meet the needs and interests of all students.
one of the fastest growing districts in the
CFISD’s 11th high school opened in August to serve students in the southwest portion
State with an average enrollment growth of
The Conroe Independent School District
of the district. This state-of-the-art piece of
approximately 1,500 students per year.
encompasses 348 square miles, educates
the district’s first-ever “educational village”
38
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
will be followed by a future middle school and elementary campus. CFISD is continually taking steps to transform schools into 21st Century learning environments. It has recently upgraded more than 100,000 network connections and completed 100 percent of the network electronics infrastructure hubs throughout the campus, helping manage nearly 90,000 districtowned devices in addition to student-owned devices and wireless connections. The district is made up of 54 elementary schools, 18 middle schools, 11 high schools and five special program facilities, where staff and educators are working to “maximize every student’s potential through rigorous and relevant learning experiences preparing students to be 21st Century global leaders.” The CFISD vision is LEAD: Learn. Empower. Achieve. Dream.
“
The Montgomery County continued economic and population growth has a positive impact on education. Public school district across the region boast strong reputations for both academic and extracurricular program.
”
met with excellent facilitates and increased community support.
Magnolia ISD www.magnoliaisd.org • 281-356-3571
Students in the district are recognized for national and state accolades in academics, athletics, agriculture, health science, career and technology, fine arts programs, and the Navy Junior ROTC. District honors include National Merit Scholars and above average SAT and ACT scores.
Located 45 miles north of Houston and to the west of The Woodlands, the Magnolia Independent School District provides an outstanding learning environment offering innovative programs, modern facilities and exceptional teachers.
The mission of Magnolia ISD is to provide an educational environment that will enable all students to develop essential academic skills for a lifetime of learning and to be responsible, contributing citizens in a diverse and changing world.
The district serves approximately 13,000 students and provides a well-balanced curriculum to meet the needs of all students offering advanced academics, dual credit programs, Career and Technical Education career paths and certifications, Early Childhood, and full-day Kindergarten. Magnolia West High School is the only public school in Montgomery County to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. This prestigious, challenging academic program prepares junior and senior students for the rigor of college course work and is recognized by elite universities around the world as an excellent preparatory curriculum. One of the fastest growing districts in the state among comparable size districts, Magnolia’s campuses include eight elementary schools, two 6th grade junior high schools, two 7th and 8th grade junior high schools, three high schools and one alternative high school. This growth has been
Montgomery ISD www.misd.org • 936-582-1333 MISD educates over 8700 students who live within the 231 square-mile boundary. The district has eight schools with three more on the way. MISD opened a new elementary school and junior high school in the Fall of 2017 with a new high school opening in the Fall of 2018. The district employs an outstanding instructional staff of 543 certified teachers. Of these educators, the staff has an average of 13.05 years of teaching experience and 138 teachers hold advanced degrees MISD class sizes are small and average about 15.5 students for each teacher, which enables them to give their students individualized attention and in-depth instruction. Montgomery ISD maintains an environment rich in opportunities for their students to engage in and develop their
passions. In addition, Montgomery High School was named one of Newsweek’s Best High Schools in America. With an unyielding commitment to excellence, MISD seeks to provide a premier academic program that recognizes the unique potential of each student and integrate the intellectual, social, cultural and physical aspects of learning. Staff and educators work to empower each student to become an eager lifelong learner committed to academic excellence, integrity, responsible citizenship and service to others. The district tracks its students’ progress through the Texas Academic Performance Reports (TAPR). Details about the district’s involvement in these programs can be found on the Texas Education Agency’s School Performance page, www.tea.state.tx.us. Tomball ISD www.tomballisd.net • 281-357-3100 The Tomball Independent School District is a highly regarded public school system that maintains a reputation for excellence. The district serves approximately 15,000 students in grades pre-kindergarten through 12 in 18 modern, well-equipped facilities that were designed and built with students and their needs in mind. The district is committed to high student achievement characterized by quality instruction, equality of opportunities and resources, and demonstrated results. Tomball ISD is proud to offer various academic programs that focus on ensuring students are college and workforce ready.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
39
M O N T G O M E R Y E D U C AT I O N
Photo courtesy of Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy
Courses in the Career & Technical Education department offer certifications that
Willis ISD www.willisisd.org • 936-856-1200
prepare students to become contributing members of the workforce within the Tomball community.The district also offers courses based on engineering curriculum provided by Project Lead The Way – a non-profit organization and a provider of K-12
science,
technology,
engineering,
and mathematics (STEM) programs. The Health Science program is another certification option for Tomball ISD students. This program prepares students for a career in the medical field by offering classes in medical terminology, nutrition, hydration and safety, and by caring for individuals who reside in nursing facilities or nursing homes. Courses offered in Tomball ISD’s Career & Technical Education program offer additional educational opportunities as students decide on a career choice. As part of its mission to provide innovative, individually rigorous, and personally valuable educational experiences that allow students to become responsible, productive citizens, Tomball ISD is proud that its students are graduating from high school ready for college, or with highly valued professional credentials in a variety of industries.
40
Education is exciting for the more than 7,000 Willis Wildkats who attend one of five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Willis ISD is a growing K-12 district nestled between the Sam Houston National Forest and Lake Conroe. The District and all campuses once again achieved the highest rating of “Met Standard” under the 2016 State Accountability System. Since 2013, Willis ISD schools have earned a total of 15 Academic Achievement Distinctions Designations. Higher expectations for student achievement are set every year and are complimented by a comprehensive array of rigorous academic programs including Gifted and Talented, Career and Technology, Advanced Placement, and Dual Credit courses. College-ready juniors and seniors can take Lone Star College courses in their high school classrooms, with some students graduating with more than 40 hours of college credit. Through the Career and Technology program, students can get a quick start on their career by acquiring skills in a variety of areas including architecture and construction, agriculture, audio/video technology,
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
business management, health science, hospitality services and information technology. Individual talents and valuable life skills are enriched through the athletic, fine arts and extracurricular programs. Willis ISD honors small-town values and traditions. It is a community that pulls together for the kids and develops personal connections with them and their families. At the same time, staff and educators are focused on preparing the students to live and work successfully in the global community of the 21st century. Spring ISD www.springisd.org • 281 891-6000 Spring ISD is focused on its students and grounded in its community partnerships. It serves about 37,000 pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade students in a diverse district located 20 miles north of central Houston. Its vision states: Spring Independent School District will be a district of choice known for high-quality academics with innovative and specialized programs that meet the needs of all students in a positive learning environment. Guided by its strategic plan, Every Child 2020, the district supports the growth and
development of all students. Every learner can succeed in Spring, with academic acceleration and enrichment available for the gifted and talented, while special education services are provided for those with disabilities. Bilingual instruction and English as a Second Language programs are also offered. A renewed focus on literacy for all and an expansion of early childhood programs are both part of the district’s commitment to prepare graduates who are college and career ready. In addition, student athletes from the district have made their mark at all levels of their chosen sports. Meanwhile, through district art, dance, music, theater, and speech programs, Spring ISD students have been recognized regionally and nationally for achievement in the arts. The district’s 38 campuses include 18 schools built within the last decade, as well as numerous renovated ones, ensuring that students have secure, modern facilities in which to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens – ready to contribute, compete, and lead in today’s global society.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Covenant Christian School www.covenantonline.com • 936-890-8080 Covenant Christian School is an inter-denominational, Christ-centered, college-preparatory school situated on a 35 acre facility serving students in Pre-K through grade 12. The school is nationally accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS). Covenant’s mission is for students to develop a sincere desire to impact the world with excellence and to glorify God in every area of life. Teachers challenge students to succeed and stand behind them with the support needed to fulfill their potential and reach their dreams using faith-based college-preparatory curriculum and experiential learning opportunities. Not surprisingly, Covenant is known for its consistently
high scores on standardized achievement tests. More than 95% of graduates attend colleges and universities throughout Texas and across the nation. Sportsmanship and competition acquire deeper meaning at Covenant. Coaches encourage and train athletes to compete at high levels while instilling Godly character – on and off the field and court. Students in grades 6 thru 12 compete on a variety of championship teams throughout the school year allowing them to explore and develop God-given strengths and talents. Covenant inspires artistic expression through art, music and drama. Starting in Pre-K, students receive instruction from art teachers who offer children an awareness of beauty and detail found in God’s creation. The unparalleled music department stirs a lifelong appreciation for musical expression beginning with the youngest students continuing through senior year. Covenant’s championship Choral Praise Group travels to New York performing at Carnegie Hall in alternating years. In junior high, creative drama teachers instruct students in performance and production, serving as a springboard for the annual Junior Class Play at the historic Crighton Theater. A heartfelt and unwavering commitment to excellence underlies all that Covenant does with every student. Covenant is located at 4503 I-45 North, Conroe, TX 77304. For more information and to schedule a tour, contact the Admissions Office at (936) 890-8080. Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy www.legacypca.org • 936-337-2000 Founded in 2005, Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy is a private Christian school comprised of grades Pre-K through 12th. Legacy Prep prepares students to be successful in college and life by providing a rigorous academic background that is rich in opportunities. The school strives to develop a biblical worldview combined with community service, a strong work ethic, and study habits critical
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
41
M O N T G O M E R Y E D U C AT I O N
to college-worthy students. The vision of Legacy Prep is to cultivate parental involvement in the educational process of their children and to come alongside parents to prepare the students to be college-worthy, character witnesses for Christ. Legacy Prep is a University Model School certified by the National Association of University Model Schools (NAUMS), headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. The school attained NAUMS certification in July 2008 and was recertified in April of 2014. Legacy Prep is also accredited by AdvancEd/SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools). The school participates in ASCI and TAPPS. Currently, Legacy Prep has over 400 students enrolled and attending school on the 22-acre campus in The Woodlands. The school offers a wide array of sports including football, baseball, volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, golf, tennis, cross country, track & field, and more. Extra-curricular activities include National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, student council, fine arts, and more.
aside for an independent school by Woodlands founder George Mitchell. The school opened in 1988 and has grown to become one of the premier independent schools in the Houston area.
Legacy Prep meets on a university-style schedule giving families many benefits they will not find elsewhere. The first is to give parents more time with their children to impart the faith and values they hold dear. Secondly, through Legacy Prep’s academically challenging college preparatory curriculum, the school prepares students to be successful as they enter higher education at a university. Students develop the skills of an independent learner far sooner than traditional types of schooling allow and experience a smooth transition as they enter the college or university of their choice.
Cooper provides a challenging education
For more information about Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy, please visit their website at www.legacypca.org or call 936-337-2000.
Houston and the Gulf Coast Region
in a caring environment. educational
practices
Traditional
combined
with
innovative new teaching methods enable students to become critical and creative thinkers, effective communicators, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifetime learners.
HIGHER EDUCATION Lone Star College www.LoneStar.edu
can be full of surprises. World class studded entertainment are just some of over the world. Another benefit the area enjoys is Lone Star
An independent, PK-12, college preparatory school, located on 43 acres that were set
42
Students choose LSC because of the extra attention they get thanks to their small class sizes, averaging only 23 students per class, the convenient campus locations that are close to home and the flexible schedules LSC offers. No matter what their goals are, Lone Star College is ready to help them realize their dreams. LSC is recognized as a world leader in workforce training and helps build a strong regional workforce in industries like health care, construction, accounting, energy, computer technology and transportation. LSC also helps qualified students find financial aid and grant funding options that can provide training at little or no cost.
museums, five star restaurants and star the amenities that attract people from all
The John Cooper School www.johncooper.org • 281-367-0900
walk through its doors each semester. LSC is today’s smart choice for students looking to earn an undergraduate degree, start a new career or update their skills.
College. Many people are surprised to learn that LSC has more than 95,000 students
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
Many students interested in a fouryear degree start at LSC, then transfer to the university of their choice, saving thousands of dollars without sacrificing quality. LSC students can also take advantage of the Honors College at LSC for high achieving students and
study abroad and international programs,
Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being
classroom – enabling students to study from
programs not commonly associated with
an authorized partner ensures that the
work, home or a New Horizons center.
a community college.
students have the highest quality training
High school students can get a jump-start on college with Dual Credit classes which allow them to earn high school and college credit simultaneously.
Students
save money on college tuition, complete their degrees quicker and build confidence by easing the transition to college. LSC was recently recognized as a Top 10 producer of associate degrees, ranking
materials and train on the latest prod-
New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based
ucts and technologies available. Courses
lab solutions as well, allowing students to
provided fall into categories like desktop
access their labs anytime and anywhere. The
applications, technical training and profes-
state-of-the-art, fully-configured live lab envi-
sional development.
ronment provides students hands-on access to the systems and applications taught in the
Flexible Training Approach Based on
classrooms, empowering them to learn on
Learner Needs - They understand that
their own schedules.
not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their
A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons
flexible training approach gives the ability
is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for
to customize dedicated classes to satisfy
training quality and customer satisfaction
specific needs. Learning methods include
as reported by an independent third-party
LSC is a proud member of the community
Online
training,
learning and quality assurance company,
and a major contributor to the local and
private classes and Online LIVE. Online
Knowledge Advisors. Plus, research shows
regional economy with an annual economic
Live
boundaries
that New Horizons training yields a 4:1
impact of $3.1 billion.
from learning by bringing students and
benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager
instructors together synchronously in a
surveys regarding the improved perfor-
virtual real-time classroom environment.
mance and productivity of their employees
This program provides students all of the
immediately
benefits of being in a dynamic interactive
training.
fourth nationally among all community colleges in the U.S. by Community College Week magazine.
Affordable, close to home, world class. When you add up all the benefits, you can see why more than 95,000 students choose Lone Star College. Visit LoneStar.edu to
ANYTIME,
removes
on-site
geographical
following
New
Horizons
learn more about the significant role LSC plays in our community. New Horizons - Your Partner in Training 713-552-1414 • www.nhhouston.com For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been a leader in IT training. With over 100
locations
worldwide,
they
have
One of Texas’ Largest Colleges is Right Here in Your Backyard.
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 style, along with vendor-approved learning tools and expert instruction. They have trained more than 30 million people to make the most of technology, and they feel like they are just getting started. Vendor-Authorized
-
New
Horizons
offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training and certifications for top technology providers, such as Microsoft,
06.04.18.03
LoneStar.edu/Start 06.04.18.03 HoustonNewcomersGuideAd_4.875x4.75in_Ad_v3.indd 1
6/6/18 7:38 AM
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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in this section active senior housing communities continuing care retirement communities assisted living communities
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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ACTIVE ADULTS
+ senior living The times of aging in America, they are a-changing – and many senior Montgomery County residents couldn’t be happier about it. Long gone are the days of mandatory retirement at age 65, and with it, the idea that one’s golden years were to be spent simply sitting quietly on the front porch in a rocking chair. More and more seniors don’t see them-
hobby. More people are opting to burn out
selves as seniors (unless they get a discount
rather than rust out.
if they do). Increasingly, the years after age 65 are more numerous and more active. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Americans’ life expectancy in 2000 was 76.8 years; in 2014, it was
And the options for living and playing are also evolving to meet the changing demands of this growing group of people. From
on it? What other expenses do you have? Food, entertainment, transportation? What medical expenses do you currently have, or do you anticipate? Be as thorough and honest in your assessment as you can, so that you can make an informed decision.
upscale retirement communities that offer an
78.8. One of the reasons is that Americans
array of housing, activity, exercise and social
are healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor
options, to full-care facilities that care for
and emergency room less, spend fewer days
people with mental and physical disabilities,
in hospital and exercise more.
and every-thing in between, there is a senior living solution to fit every desire and need.
Turning 65 no longer means receiving a watch, a party and hearty congratulations
TAKING STOCK
for years spent at a job, only to be put out
In order to narrow your options in what
to pasture to watch the rest of the world go
could be an overwhelming list of choices
by. Today’s seniors now have many options,
and to help you choose the best one, put
dreams and plans, and very often, the
some time into the stock-taking process
energy to pursue them. Of course, people
by taking a personal inventory of living
with more leisure time can perfect their golf
expenses, health, interests and expectations.
swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas,
Budget Inventory: what does it cost to live
but these days, they’re also choosing to go
every month? What are you spending on
back to school, learn a new language, run
housing or rental; how much does it cost
marathons, volunteer, or take up a new
to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a mortgage
Lifestyle inventory: How do you want to live? Need more time for golf ? You might want to live on a course. What to do some volunteering? You may decide to move closer to the city, school or community center. Want to make new friends? Many senior’s communities are set up to allow you to do just that. Again, the more careful you are in your analysis, the more prepared you will be to make the right decisions.
SHOULD YOU STAY OR SHOULD YOU GO? Stay Put: You can retire in your own home by withdrawing some of the equity you’ve built up with a reverse mortgage, which is a special type of home loan that
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A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G
• How much would the home sell for ontoday’s market? • What would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home? • Would there be any money left over from the purchase of a new home that could besafely invested? • What are the options for downsizing into aless expensive home, renting an apartment, or moving into an assisted living or alternative senior housing situation? Visit AARP’s website and use their Reverse Mortgage Calculator: www.aarp.com.
lets you convert a portion of the equity in your home into cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD offers this federally insured private loan which can give you greater financial security to supplement social security, meet unex-pected medical expenses, make home improvements and more. And, unlike a traditional home equity
Pack It Up: But maybe, it’s time for a move. Perhaps the 30-year family home is too big and you’re rattling around it like a marble in a shoe box, or you’re tired of the outdoor upkeep, or you want to be closer to the place or activities that you now have time for. Before you choose your new home, once again, take stock. Be realistic about your situation, your expectations, your finances and your health. It’s as important to consider ac-cess to medical doctors and facilities as it is to think about fun and leisure pursuits. Make sure the new community is one that you will enjoy, that it has convenient amenities and access to services, and that a new house will be a good investment. If you’re still active, you might want to be among folk just like you. Think carefully before making decisions that will determine your happiness in the years to come.
use the home as your principal residence, sell it, or pass away. The money from a reverse loan may be paid out in a variety of ways: a lump sum, a regular monthly cash advance, as a credit line account, or any combination of the above. To qualify, you must be at least 62, and own the home outright or carry a mortgage small enough to be paid off by the proceeds; there are no income or credit qualifications or
monthly
payments,
but
you
are
responsible to pay the annual taxes, property insurance and maintenance of the home. The best way to determine if a reverse mortgage is the best fit for your retirement plan is to honestly assess the following:
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CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offers care in a residential facility for seniors, with a full menu of services and living situations. Residents may go from independent living, to assisted living and nursing home care, depending on their individual, changing needs and abilities. A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or Communities) generally offers a contract that covers a continuum of care, including access to housing, services, and health care for more than one year, or the balance of one’s life. It is a wise idea to move into a CCRC sooner rather than later, as most require that new residents live independently when they first move in. There is a range of contract options offered by CCRCs. An extensive-care contract is the most expensive, but carries the least risk,
loan or second mortgage, you usually do not have to repay the loan until you no longer
as shopping centers and grocery stores within easy walking distance, and the availability of transportation services. Where is the community located in proximity to major health care providers? What security measures are in place for residents? For ultimate peace of mind, you might opt to rent a home under a short-term agreement at first to make sure the community provides for your needs and lives up to your expectations.
ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES
providing unlimited long-term nursing care
If you’re a healthy, independent senior, you may find that you simply want to live in a community where you can enjoy the company of others and your own personal interests. Moving to an active independent liv-ing retirement community might be the best fit for your budget and lifestyle, where options include renting an apartment or purchasing a property. Many active senior communities have information packets and offer tours. A personal visit will give valuable, firsthand information and an opportunity to meet current residents who can share their own experi-ence and insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness programs, organized activities, sporting options, and social opportunities. Other day-to-day living arrangements should also be considered, such
as nursing-home services are required. A
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at little or no additional cost for as long modified-care contract comes with medium financial risk, and provides long-term health or nursing services for a specified period, after which, the senior or guardian is responsible for additional costs. A fee-for-service contract offers an a-la-carte approach, requiring that residents pay separately for all health and medical services provided by the facility, as well as long-term care. Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus monthly fees thereafter. Some require an equity agreement where seniors purchase a condominium or co-op apartment on the property instead of paying an entrance fee.
Less commonly found are CCRC contracts
Often, an ALC will create an individ-
Another option available is to contact the Texas
where residents pay monthly fees only.
ualized service plan for seniors upon
Department of Aging and Disability Services
admission, detailing personal services that
(DADS) at 800-458-9858 or www.dads.
will be provided. This plan is then peri-
state.tx.us. While state law prohibits agency
odically reviewed and updated to ensure
employees from recommending one facility
changing needs are met. Housing in an ALC
over another, they can answer the following
may be studios or one-bedroom apartments
recommended questions about any facility:
with small kitchen facilities. Typically, ALC
• Have there been any proposed license
Before signing a contract with a CCRC, conduct a thorough review of the facility’s services, operations and finances, and determine if it is appropriate to your needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also a good idea to ask a family attorney or accountant to review the contract. If the contract is found agreeable, ask to spend at least one night and two days at the facility, to test drive the community and make sure it is a good fit. Some points to consider include: • Are pets allowed in your residence? • What social, recreational and cultural activities are offered? • Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it? • Are there fitness facilities onsite? • Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable? • What healthcare and personal careservices are available? • What preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations? • Is there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided?
housing units have group dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities.
ASSISTED LIVING An Assisted Living Community (ALC) bridges the gap for those who need assistance with daily activities a nursing home might offer, but wish to live independently. Residents in an ALC are unable to live com-pletely by themselves, but don’t need constant supervision. An ALC offers its residents assistance with eat-ing, bathing, dressing, laundry, housekeeping, and keeping track of medications. They often have centers for medical care, but typically do not offer the extensive medical services provided by a nursing home. An ALC is not a substitute for a nursing home, but rather is a stepping stone between complete independence and services provided by a nursing home.
the past year? • How many complaints in the past year
As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions: • Are the grounds well maintained? • Is the staff friendly? • Are the residents properly dressed? • What activities are available?
have been found to be valid? • How many deficiencies have been cited in the past two years? • How many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years? • When did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit?
ALCs that competently provide required services without forgetting about little details will give the same care and attention to residents.
• Has the owner of this facility had other facilities recommended for license termination? The answers to these questions, combined with observations and impressions made during facility tours and staff interviews will allow you to select the right nursing care facility.
NURSING CARE FACILITIES A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a state
CCRCs can be anything from high-rise apartments, to cottages, townhouses or single-family homes, and are an excellent option for those who are independent and in good health, but might need some assistance with daily living needs or require skilled nursing care.
terminations in the past two years? • How many complaints have been filed in
licensed, private-care facility that provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home. It pays to shop around when selecting an NCF. Consult with a trusted doctor or health care practitioner for recommendations of nearby facilities. Plan on visiting at least four or five area facilities, and make an ap-pointment with the administrator or director of
ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIACARE FACILITIES Seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia need specialized care. While some Assisted Living Communities offer services and separate facilities for residents with early onset symptoms, because of the progressive nature of the disease, it may become necessary to transfer the resident to another facility that can give the right level of service.
nursing. Check to make sure that information provided is consistent with information
Facilities specializing in the care of Alzhei-
gathered during the facility tour. The home
mer’s and dementia patients should provide
should have clean floors and smell fresh.
a treatment plan that considers not only the
Ask to see the compliance survey report
resident’s medical needs, but also the needs
prepared by the State of Texas. It will list defi-
of the entire family with social services,
ciencies found in resident care during routine
professional consultations and individual-
inspections, and the facility’s effort to correct
ized treatment reviews, all set within a calm,
them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must
soothing environment that is sensitive to the
make this and other survey compliance
needs of the patient. Please visit www.aging-
reports available upon request, as well as a
care.com for additional information on care
well-lit place for review.
for the elderly.
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in this section moving companies utilities public transportation international relocation places of worship
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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RELOCATION INFORMATION
Moving? Learn about Montgomery County and the Greater Houston area in order to 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.
MOVING COMPANIES
how much of the expense will be covered.
while others break out supplies separately.
If you are moving from out of state, it may
As a general rule, many experts recommend
Packing services, fuel charges, wait time and
be necessary to hire a moving company.
scaling the move down to essential items
temporary storage costs may vary consid-
The best time to move is the middle of
and those with emotional value. Find out
erably so be sure to ask about all charges.
the month rather than the end or during
about import fees and duty costs, especially for items you may have purchased overseas.
Moving companies offer three types of esti-
summer vacation, when moving companies are busiest. If the move is less than 250 miles
Also consider the size of your new space:
away, consider making the move yourself.
will it be larger or smaller than the home
Compare the relative costs of moving your-
you’re leaving? If you’re a U.S. citizen who
self versus using the services of a moving
is moving back from overseas, then you
company, and be sure to take into consider-
might have many items in U.S. storage, so
ation your time and effort, as well as your
you’ll need to plan the logistics of getting
physical ability.
these to your new home as well.
At the other extreme, the global economy of
easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving
Houston and Montgomery County draws
TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES
newcomers from all over the world, and
Most companies give free estimates based
time the price quote is in effect, which is
there are a few important considerations to
on distance and the weight of household
usually 60 days. This type of estimate does
keep in mind when moving from overseas. If
contents. Some moving companies include
not require additional payment over the
your overseas move is work-related, find out
the costs of packing materials in their bid
amount of the estimate.
mates: the binding estimate, non-binding estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate. The binding estimate lists all items to be shipped and the required services on the estimate form, and the price quoted is the binding price. Every charge is itemized, so that if an item is added or deleted, it is company must also specify the length of
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
The non-binding estimate, which is the only type of estimate offered in some intrastate situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost 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 move should be entered on each form that is prepared by the mover, including orders for special services and bills of lading. If the amounts are not included, do not sign or accept the document. 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 valuable. Before the movers arrive, get prepared. Take an inventory of your belongings and note their condition. If the moving company performs their own inventory, check it carefully against your own before signing anything. Should any of 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
50
receive the delivery, your belongings will go into storage, and the moving company may require payment in cash before unloading.
Responsibilities When You Move.” You can also find the brochure on many websites by searching for its title.
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.
FURNITURE AND APPLIANCE RENTAL
TIPS FOR HIRING A MOVING COMPANY
your old ones to be delivered, or while shop-
• Select a moving company carefully and visit www.protectyourmove.gov to confirm their license.
space perfectly.
• 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
furniture to newcomers and offer packages
• Contact the Better Business Bureau for any complaints that might be on file at www. houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500.
quick delivery and professional setup and
• The Interstate Commerce Commission offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and
like a particular item or items, purchase is
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 8
In some cases, it may be necessary to rent furniture or appliances while waiting for ping for new items that will fit your new
Some companies specialize in renting by the household, the room or by the piece. They also offer different styles, along with accessories such as artwork, lighting, rugs and indoor plants. Flexible lease terms, removal are some of the services offered by rental companies. If you decide you usually available.
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
The Montgomery County Court House 210 W. Davis, Conroe, TX, 77301 281-689-3133; www.mctx.org
UTILITIES ELECTRICITY Retail Electric Providers compete to sell electricity, allowing consumers to compare plans, pricing and features. The Public Utility Commission 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
FORWARDING MAIL
licenses, automobile licenses, fees and
and long distance, cable or satellite televi-
To submit your change of address, go to
inspections, divorce proceedings, DBAs,
sion, and high-speed Internet services at
www.usps.com.
taxes, and more. Contact the county of resi-
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
dence for specific services offered.
LEGAL RECORDS
GAS
Legal Records maintained by Harris County
The Harris County Civil Court House
CenterPoint Energy is the major provider
and Montgomery County include birth
20l Caroline, Houston, TX, 77002
for natural gas in the greater Houston and
certificates,
713-755-6411; www.co.harris.tx.us
Montgomery County areas. As the regulated
death
certificates,
marriage
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION METRO is the primary public transportation service in the Greater Houston area. METRO has launched several initiatives in the Houston and surrounding area to make commuting around the city quick and easy for their customers. For more information, visit RideMetro.org.
• Local Bus METRO Local bus service runs mostly along city streets, making stops at every other corner along the designated route.
• METRORail The light-rail network features 23 miles of service stretching from the Texas Medical Center, Downtown, the Museum District. This efficient system even goes as far as Northline with numerous stops inbetween.
• Park & Riders METRO This service offers 27 Park & Ride facilities that are spread throughout Houston, offering direct, nonstop service to downtown, the Texas Medical Center and other major employment centers across the region.
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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• METROlift METROlift is the transit companies curb-to-curb shared-ride paratransit service. This services provides transportation for persons with disabilities who cannot be facilitated on the traditional METRO buses or light rail systems.
• METRO STAR METRO STAR STAR vanpool provides transportation directly to and from work and offers more than 700 routes in an eight-county area. Register online to find a match for your commute, or call 713-224-RIDE to help start a vanpool for your route.
+ HOV / Hot Lanes + Bike & Ride + Transit Centers
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. The ENERGY STAR program supports energy efficiency in new homes. Learn more about buying an ENERGY STAR home at www.energystar.gov. Water and Sewer Water, sewage and drainage services are typically provided by the public works department in each city, or by a municipal utility district (MUD). There are a number of these districts throughout Montgomery County and services vary by district. Contact your local city or home owner’s association for detailed information.
Some subdivisions opt to contract with
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
local
fees
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of
for these services are typically included
Harris County, also known as METRO, is
collection
companies,
and
in the homeowner’s association dues. Contact your homeowner’s association for information.
recognized as one of the best and safest bus systems in the nation offering an extensive system of bus routes and a growing network
Curbside recycling is offered in most neigh-
of light-rail lines. Express bus service is avail-
borhoods, and drop-off recycling centers are
able to downtown Houston and other select
located throughout the area.
shopping centers and business districts from
Telephone, Cable, and Internet Service Greater Houston and Montgomery County have four area codes: 713, 281, 832, and 936. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing is required. The many telephone service providers to choose from also offer satellite and cable television services, along with bundled services, special promotional rates and discounts for newcomers. Consolidated Communications As more of us buy items requiring Internet service and create home networks, the demand for faster Internet increases. Consolidated Communications can now offer you the speed you need to run a complete home communications and entertainment system. Plans from 6 Mbps up to 1 Gig, free wireless router, no data cap and contract buyouts are available. Consolidated also offers Digital TV, Digital Phone and Home Security and Automation services. Learn more at www. consolidated.com or call 844.YOUR.CCI. Terms and conditions apply. Services are not available in all areas. Trash Pickup The Cities of Houston, Conroe, Humble, The Woodlands and Spring, along with many other municipalities, provide trash pick-up. Call the solid waste department in your jurisdiction to find out which day garbage and light trash are collected.
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
the Greenspoint Transit Center, located near Interstate 45 North and Greens Road. For
commuting
alternatives,
Department of Public Safety office. For license requirements including fees and locations, visit www.txdps.state.tx.us.
METRO
provides Park and Ride services from transit facilities in Spring, and at Kuykendahl and I-45 North. The Harris County Motorist Assistance Program (MAP), sponsored in part by METRO, sends specially marked MAP vehicles to motorists who are experiencing car trouble on Houston area freeways. They are equipped to handle minor repairs and automotive emergencies. Houston’s major highways have High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes for vehicles with two or more passengers during peak travel periods. To share a ride, contact the METRO Carpool Matching Service, 713-635-4000. METRO offers curb-to-curb service for mobility impaired and disabled passengers. Call 713-658-0180 or visit their website www.ridemetro.org.
OWNING A VEHICLE New residents must obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of establishing residency. Texas residents moving to a new address within the state must update their license as well. To obtain a Texas driver license, take proof of registration, proof of insurance, a Social Security card or a current W-2 form, and a valid out-of-state license to the nearest
Vehicles may be registered for license plates at district field offices in the county of residence. The cost is based on the model and year for cars and gross weight for trucks. Subsequent registration may be handled by mail or in person. Motor vehicle registration renewals may be purchased at various locations. Harris County 713-224-1919 • www.tax.co.harris.tx.us Montgomery County 936-756-0571 or 281-364-4200 www.montgomerytexas.gov Texas law requires that the driver and front seat passenger wear seat belts. Children eight years of age or younger or less than 4 feet nine inches tall must be secured in an approved car seat. Texas also has a mandatory automobile liability insurance law, and if a driver is stopped for any reason, proof of liability insurance coverage will be necessary. The insurance required must provide: $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000 per person per accident and $25,000 property damage. A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is available at www.txdmv. gov.
VOTING Texas voters must be 18 years old and register at least 30 days prior to an election. Those already registered to vote but who change precincts need to file an address change. For information, go to www.votetexas.gov. In Harris County, call 713-368-VOTE. In
Montgomery County, call 936-756-0571 or 281-364-4200.
FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS For emergencies only: 911 For non-emergencies: 311 The Conroe Police Department and municipal police departments, the Montgomery County Sheriff, and Constables serve the region. The Houston Police Department or the Harris County Sheriff may have jurisdiction in some areas. Active Crime Watch programs operate in numerous neighborhoods, and another very valuable program known as Crime Stoppers accepts anonymous tips and offers rewards for information leading to an arrest. Houston Crime Stoppers 713-222-TIPS (8477) Montgomery County Crime Stoppers 1-800- 392-STOP (7867)
PETS In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing licenses 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.
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LIVE THE GIG
Delivering 1 Gig speed to your home through fiber-to-the-home technology. Discover new and exciting things the Internet has to offer with CCI! If your home is like most, you have multiple devices tied to one Internet connection in your home. These devices can be TVs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, printers, home security systems or game consoles. The more devices you have connected to your Internet connection, the more overall speed you need to support them. Consolidated Communications, Inc. (CCI) offers 1 Gig service*, which is equivalent to 1,000 Mbps, and is among the fastest connections available to residential customers across the nation. The 1 Gig service gives you the freedom to do more. *SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE IN ALL AREAS
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I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
MOVING TIPS What to do Social Security Number 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
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. No fee for the application. Take original or certified copies of immigration documents, passport & biographical information & photo. 56
TRANSPORTATION
Credit Card
Texas Drivers License Application & Locations: www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/movingtotexas.htm • Texas has a 90-day grace period. • A written & driving skills test required. • Credit cards, cash, checks, and money orders. • Take your passport, social security number, proof of residency, lawful presence, status. • Proof of vehicle registry. • Completed application.
www.creditcards.com
BANKING
for details).
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 (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), pay stub or utility bill and a minimum opening deposit. • 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.
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• Request a credit card & debit card (ATM) when opening a bank account. • You will need a residential address, phone & place of employment, credit history.
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 • 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.
TAXES
State of Texas
Private Schools • HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax and property tax only.
• Houstonprivateschools.com
Internal Revenue Service
There are a variety of independent and faith-
• Privateschoolreview.com
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
based private schools in the Houston area.
Realtor/Homes for Sale & Lease
EDUCATION
International Baccalaureate program and
Day Care:
might be better suited for children
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 to find homes. • Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.
www.childcarecenter.us
planning to later attend university
• Some centers only care for children until
outside the US.
New Homes/Builders/ Communities
• Child’s birth certificate, passport, social
Buying a home • You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.
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.
• 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
they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5. Other schools offer Kindergarten.
IMMIGRATION VISA
• Will need your child’s birth certificate,
Most questions are answered on the U.S.
social security number, passport,
Citizenship & Immigration web sites below.
application.
Contact your Consulate about your coun-
• Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different
try’s requirements.
times of the day. Ask for referrals.
General How Do I Guides:
Public Schools
• www.uscis.gov
PK-12 Texas Education Association: tea.texas.gov • Required for children 6-18 years of age in USA. 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 www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools
• www.uscitizenship.info Employment Visas: • www.travel.state.gov • www.uscis.gov Green Card: www.uscis.gov/greencard Permanent Residents: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov
PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.texas.gov • 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.
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PLACES OF
WORSHIP
Montgomery County offers a variety of churches ranging from Non-Denominational to Methodist to Baptist. Not to be overlooked, there are several mosques and synagogues also in the area. The following pages list some of the houses of worship located in Montgomery County.
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ASSEMBLIES OF GOD
ISLAM
Conroe First Assembly of God................................... conroefirst.org
The Islamic Society of Greater Houston ............................. isgh.org
Living Waters Assembly of God.................... livingwatersonline.org
Woodlands Islamic Center .............................. wic-woodlands.org
Living Word World Outreach...............................livingwordwoc.org Spring First Church......................................................... springfirst.org
JEWISH
The River Assembly of God........................................ theriverag.org
Chabad of The Woodlands........................ jewishwoodlands.com
BAPTIST
Jewish Community North......................................................cjcn.org
Community Baptist Church................................cbcwoodlands.org Champion Forest Baptist Church Conroe...... championforest.org Crossroads Baptist Church...............................................crbctw.org First Baptist Conroe.....................................................fbcconroe.org First Baptist Church Montgomery................. fbcmontgomery.com First Baptist Church of Willis.................................. firstbaptistwillis.org Founders Baptist Church................................... foundersbaptist.org Mims Baptist Church............................................... mimsbaptist.org Northside Baptist Church.............................. northsideconroe.com RiverPointe Baptist Church............................ riverpointebaptist.org Spring Baptist Church.............................................springbaptist.org
Congregation Beth Shalom................................................ cbsw.org
LUTHERAN Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.............. gslcthewoodlands.org Grace Lutheran Church........................................graceconroe.org Living Savior Lutheran Church......................... livingsaviortexas.org Living Word Lutheran Church............................................... lwlc.org Lord of Life Lutheran Church.........................................lolonline.org Resurrection Lutheran Church........................ churchthatcares.org Spirit of Joy! Lutheran Church............................................. sojoy.org St. Mark Lutheran Church.................................... stmarkconroe.org Tree of Life Lutheran Church...................................... treechurch.ne
Spring Creek Baptist Church.............................. springcreekbc.net
METHODIST
The Woodlands First Baptist Church............ thewoodlandsfirst.org
Christ Church United Methodist.......................................cc-um.org
West Conroe Baptist Church............................................... wcbc.us
Faith United Methodist Church.......................... faithumcspring.org First United Methodist Church............................... fumc-conroe.org
BUDDHIST
St. Paul United Methodist Church........................ stpaulconroe.org
Texas Buddhist Association.....................................jadebuddha.org
The Loft – The Woodlands UMC.......... thewoodlandsumc.org/loft ..............................................................................................................
CATHOLIC
The Woodlands United Methodist Church
Sacred Heart Church.................................................. shconroe.org
2200 Lake Woodlands Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church....................... staoptw.org St. Ignatius Loyola................................................. ignatiusloyola.org St. Matthias the Apostle............................................ st-matthias.net St. Simon and Jude Catholic.............................. ssjwoodlands.com
CHRISTIAN (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST) Community Christian Church............................woodlandsccc.org The Woodlands Christian Church....................................... twcc.org
CHURCH OF CHRIST Conroe Church of Christ..................................... conroechurch.org N Woodlands Church of Christ ..... northwoodlandsareacoc.com Woodland Oaks Church of Christ..................... woodlandoaks.org Woodlands Church of Christ............woodlandschurchofchrist.org
281-297-5900; thewoodlandsumc.org ..............................................................................................................
NON-DENOMINATIONAL Ark Church.......................................................... thearkchurch.com Conroe Community Church .......... conroecommunitychurch.org First Assembly of God................................................ conroefirst.org Generations Church.......................................................gchurch.net Living Branch Church.........................................................lbclife.org The Crossing Church...................................................thecrossing.cc Vineyard Church of Conroe............................ conroevineyard.org Woodlands Church.......................................... woodlandschurch.tv WoodsEdge Community Church................. www.woodsedge.org
ORTHODOX St. Anthony the Great Orthodox Christian Church
EPISCOPAL
........................................................................stanthonythegreat.org
Holy Comforter Episcopal Church........... holycomforterspring.org
St. Cyril Orthodox Church..................... stcyril.us/orthodox-houston
St. James the Apostle Episcopal Church............................ stjta.org
St Jonah Orthodox...................................................... saintjonah.org
Trinity Episcopal Church...................................trinitywoodlands.org
PRESBYTERIAN HINDU
Alden Bridge Presbyterian Church...................................trpctw.org
Hindu Temple of The Woodlands...... woodlandshindutemple.org
Crown & Covenant RP Church...........crowncovenantchurch.org First Presbyterian Church Conroe..............................fpcconroe.org
INTERDENOMINATIONAL
Grace Presbyterian Church........................... gracewoodlands.org
Calvary Chapel............................................... ccthewoodlands.org
The Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church .....wcpc-tx.org
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in this section area hospitals & medical centers moving medical tips finding a doctor
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Montgomery County and The Woodlands 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.
Thanks to its fast-growing and affluent population, Montgomery County and The Woodlands offer some of the most modern and comprehensive healthcare facilities in the Greater Houston region. Family doctors and specialists, emergency clinics and several large, award–winning hospitals have built new facilities along the I-45 corridor. These state-of-the-art facilities offer advanced cardiac care, cancer research and therapy, trauma care, sports medicine, and many other innovative treatments. Staffs include top ranking physicians, quality nursing care and highly skilled support services. Patients can expect to find comfortable, attractive rooms designed for ease of care.
Public areas and waiting areas are accommodating and meant to reduce the stress that frequently accompanies hospital visits.
hospitals or a physician’s practice frequently
Neighborhood emergency clinics are equipped to treat most illnesses, minor injuries and other health-related needs. With little or no waiting, walk-in patients can get a routine physical, school immunizations, and standard screening tests. Some clinics are located within stores or shopping centers and have extended hours to accommodate their patients.
The world-renowned Texas Medical Center,
offer weight reduction, health management programs and medical spa treatments.
where patients from around the world seek treatment, is about an hour’s drive from Montgomery County. For more information, go to www.texasmedicalcenter.org.
AREA HOSPITALS CHI St. Luke’s Health
Recent additions to personal health care options include specialty clinics that treat conditions such as smoking cessation and weight loss. Wellness Centers affiliated with
CHI St. Luke’s Health is dedicated to a mission of enhancing health through highquality, cost-effective care. In conjunction
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
with physicians and community partners, CHI St. Luke’s Health is committed to excellence and compassion in caring for the whole person. Health is not merely the absence of illness or the presence of physical well-being, and our team of experienced, compassionate physicians and staff understands that it’s the result of achieving a balance between the elements found within each patient and in our greater communities as a whole. Our North Houston community is constantly growing, and it’s part of our healing mission to grow with it. We’re dedicated to bringing wellness to every member of our community by providing expert resources at convenient locations. With hospitals in The Woodlands and Springwoods Village, plus freestanding ERs and specialist clinics, we have you covered, no matter where you are or what you need.
MOVING MEDICAL TIPS 1
If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in this publication to get information.
2
Call the offices of all your current physicians/dentists and tell them that you are moving. Ask for referrals they might be willing to make.
3
If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of the records of each of your family members to your new doctor.
4
If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/ dentist to make copies of pertinent records of all your family members for you to take with you. Pack these records in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency.
5
It is extremely important that you get the immunization records for your children before you move. You cannot enroll your children in local schools without these records. You will also need certified copies of your children’s birth certificates as well as the addresses of your children’s former schools.
6
If you are a member of a healthcare HMO/PPO plan, or have a prescription drug card, be sure to notify the company of your moving plans. The insurance company should be able to provide you with a list of physicians/ healthcare facilities in the area.
7
62
Pack an emergency first aid kit to take en route to your new home. Items such as bandages, thermometer, pain killers or aspirin, antihistamine, firstaid ointment, tweezers and decongestant can come in handy.
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Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands As Houston and its surrounding communities grow, Texas Children’s Hospital continues to expand as well. Texas Children’s is not only committed to meeting the needs of patients and families we serve, but we are committed to doing that in a way that works for them. For so many, this means providing care close to home. That’s exactly why we are building Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands. The communities in this area are some of the fastest-growing in the nation, with a combined population already exceeding 1.1 million. The pediatric population alone is projected to grow to more than 350,000 in the next three years. In order to meet this need, Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands, a 560,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility, is being designed specifically to serve children and families. We are proud that the hospital will be the first dedicated to children’s care in The Woodlands community. Outpatient services are now offered at Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands. The Outpatient Building houses 72 exam rooms and nearly 20 areas of specialized care including cardiology, sports medicine, diabetes and endocrinology, neurology and
DEEP IN THE HEART
Texas is hats and boots, legends, horns and Howdy! And it’s home to Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands, where pushing boundaries and exploring new territory is our focus – all for the care of kids. Located deep in the heart of The Woodlands, we offer convenient access to expert pediatricians and subspecialists – providing extraordinary care whenever you need it. For maps and information, visit texaschildrens.org/woodlands.
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
888-4UT-DOCS UTPhysicians.com
hematology/oncology. Inpatient services, including the emergency center, will open in 2017. The hospital will house 32 inpatient rooms, 25 emergency center exam rooms, four operating rooms, 12 radiology rooms and 28 critical care rooms, with plans to add up to 200 additional beds in the future to meet community needs. Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands is led by Michelle Riley-Brown, president, Dr. Charles Hankins, chief medical officer and Dr. Jeffrey Shilt, chief surgical officer. Texas Children’s anticipates serving families in counties throughout Greater North Houston including Montgomery, Walker, Grimes, Liberty, Harris, Polk, San Jacinto and Hardin counties and beyond.
A CARING COMMUNITY
Trust UT Physicians for your child’s health care needs. UT Physicians offers pediatric primary and specialty care in neighborhoods across Greater Houston.
FINDING A DOCTOR The following is list of local and national physician resource, - where you can search for general practice physicians by location, specialty, and more. American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician resource under the “Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is comprehensive site for health-related news, questions, and other topics. www.aap.org • www.healthychildren.org Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across the state, as well as information on general health resources; go to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org 64
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The hospital building project is part of Promise: The Campaign for Texas Children’s Hospital. The goal of the comprehensive $475 million fundraising effort is to help ensure that Texas Children’s continues to meet the needs of the patients it serves 5, 10 and even 20 years from now. For more information, visit texaschildrens.org/woodlands.
UT Physicians UT Physicians, the clinical faculty practice of the McGovern Medical School at UT Health has experienced unparalleled growth over the last seven years. With offices originally located solely across the street from the McGovern Medical School, UT Physicians now boasts more than 200 clinical sites in and around the Greater Houston Area. The idea of community-based UT Physicians clinics is one that started with the goal of bringing UT Physicians doctors to the patients. “Back in 2007 and 2008, we created a strategic plan for UT Physicians to follow the growth and population changes in Houston. We knew that if we didn’t grow outside of the Texas Medical Center, we would not survive as a group practice,” says Andrew Casas, chief operating officer of UT Physicians. The addition of the UT Physicians Pediatric Center at The Woodlands provides a variety of specialty services for children 0 – 18 years in age. Available pediatric specialty services include cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, and neurology. With staff highly trained in all aspects of their job including providing an exceptional patient experience, the clinic is maintaining a 95 – 97% patient satisfaction rating.
A dedicated clinic with
physicians passionate and honored to treat their patients as part of the UT Physicians growing family.
“We’re providing timely
pediatric subspecialty care close to home and in your neighborhood,” says Dr. Katherine Velez, Endocrinologist. Thomas Murphy, M.D., assistant dean for community affairs and health policy, says that patients outside of the Texas Medical Center provide stability and long-term patient relationships. “Right care, right place, right cost – it’s a simple concept,” he says. UT Physicians Pediatric Center at The Woodlands, 920 Medical Plaza Drive Suite 140 (Medical Plaza 2), The Woodlands, Texas 77380. For more information or to schedule an appointment at call 713-486-6760 or visit our website at UTPhysicians.com.
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in this section local chambers of commerce economic development houston by the numbers major employers
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BUSINESS &
COMMUNITY If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a newcomer relocating to the Houston region for the city’s tremendous employment opportunities – some of the best in the nation.
Within the 600-square-mile Houston region, no area shines brighter than Montgomery County, home to one of the largest recent corporate relocations anywhere in the nation. Many people are already hard at work at ExxonMobil’s beautiful new state-ofthe-art campus in Montgomery County, and more are coming – perhaps you are one of them, or know somebody who’ll soon work there. This 385-acre campus is in Spring, just South of The Woodlands and to the West where I-45 North meets the Hardy Toll Road. It’s been projected that the overall economic impact of this new campus will total billions of dollars, spurring the construction of thousands of new homes and millions of square feet of commercial space in the surrounding area. ExxonMobil has grabbed the headlines lately – and rightly so – but Montgomery County is also home to a growing number of major companies, including Anadarko Petroleum, with its 2,400 employees in The Woodlands. With other big employers including Hewitt Associates, Baker Hughes
and Huntsman, The Woodlands has become one of Houston’s biggest employment centers and is sprouting an impressive skyline visible along I-45 North. There’s already talk of this region emerging as Houston’s second “Energy Corridor.” In the pioneer days, abundant natural resources such as timber, water and oil sparked an economic boom throughout Montgomery County. Today, the quality of life made possible by many of these same resources is drawing business, as companies relocate near where the majority of their employees want to live. Following is a partial list of some of the major chambers of commerce and economic development organizations working to advance Montgomery County. Their websites are a wealth of information about the areas they represent.
the Montgomery County area, having grown from three members to more than 1,100 today. This dynamic organization works to generate awareness, create partnerships and provide leadership for progressive development and growth while enhancing the quality of life in Montgomery County www.conroe.org.
GREATER CONROE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL The Greater Conroe Economic Development Council works to link new or relocating businesses to all the resources they need, allowing them to make informed decisions and enjoy a seamless transition experience. Their mission is to enhance the strength and stability of the greater Conroe economy by supporting existing businesses and industries and attracting new ones, bringing in new capital and employment opportunities. www.gcedc.org
CONROE/LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE First organized as the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce in 1934, the Greater Conroe/Lake Conroe Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating 83 years of service to
GREATER MAGNOLIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The
Greater
Magnolia
Chamber
of
Commerce has served Southwest Montgomery County since 1982, supporting
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living in the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house here, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help figure out the rest. If you made $53,759 in Denver, for example, your salary could decrease to $41,995 in Houston - and you’d still maintain the same standard of living. See the table below for the results from a sampling of other cities.
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
Phoenix
61,439
New York City
25,910
Detroit
61,826
Los Angeles
41,996
Austin
61,375
Chicago
50,705
San Francisco
33,401
Las Vegas
54,455
Boston
40,832
Portland
45,498
Denver
53,759
St. Louis
63,697
Miami
52,467
Raleigh
65,105
Pittsburgh
59,757
Cincinnati
64,818
Dallas
61,311
Charleston
58,336
area businesses and giving back to the community through scholarships and special events. The Chamber’s leadership has succeeded in providing answers to members and the community, increasing mobility and improving environmental quality. www.magnoliatexas.org
MAGNOLIA PARKWAY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Magnolia Parkway Chamber of Commerce promotes member businesses and encourages economic development in their service area along FM 1488, FM 2978 and beyond. Calling itself “the Chamber without borders,” it hosts monthly meetings and events throughout the year for members and prospective members. www.magnoliaparkwaycc.org.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY HISPANIC CHAPTER Anyone with an interest in supporting or developing a relationship with the Hispanic business community in Montgomery County and surrounding area is welcome to join the MCHC. Not only do they work to help businesses penetrate the growing Hispanic market, but they are also involved with issues important to the Hispanic community, such as immigration, day labor, education and health. Learn more at www.mchchamber.org.
SPRING KLEIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization with a mission to connect businesses within the Spring-Klein area, which in turn will allow the growing community to thrive. Through a variety of networking events and programs, executives, business owners and like-minded professionals can succeed, while contributing to the success of others and the overall business climate of the Spring and Klein areas. www.springkleinchamber.org.
CITY OF WILLIS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL The Willis Economic Development Corporation (EDC) provides assistance and resources to business owners in the City of Willis. The Willis EDC offers resources, incentives, and information that help business owners make
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a good decision about where to locate their
CITY OF CONROE TOP EMPLOYERS
business, and serve as an advocate as businesses get up and running in the community.
Conroe Independent School District Elementary And Secondary Schools Conroe Independent School District Montgomery County Conroe Regional Medical Center Nov Downhole City Of Conroe Consolidated Communications Services Wal-Mart Stores Inc Nov Fluid Control 3 Locations Professional Directional Tri-County Services Inc Gullo Cars Of Conroe, Inc Jyoti International Inc Milk Products Lp Dba Borden Nov Texas Oil Tools Turbo Drill Russell Construction Company
Learn more at www.visitwillis.com.
THE WOODLANDS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE As one of the largest and most influential business associations in the Houston region, the Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce represents small and emerging businesses,
mid-market
companies
and
industry leading corporations. The Chamber continuously cultivates new and innovative ways for members to market themselves, their products and services to fellow members and the community. It is working to be an effective catalyst for the economic growth and prosperity in the Woodlands
Medivators Inc Mckesson Pharmaceutical Ball Corporation Huntsman Petrochemical Llc Ms Energy Services Protect Controls Inc Crown Beverage Packaging Team Oil Tools San Jacinto River Authority Nexeo Solutions Llc Bauer Manufacturing Streater-Smith Honda Nissan Hempel Coatings USA Inc Lone Star Family Health Clinic Conroe Machine LLC Tony Gullo Motors I, LP John Wiesner Inc
area. www.woodlandschamber.org.
THE WOODLANDS AREA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP
companies
a
all the area has to offer, allowing busi-
company, its employees and families to
ness people to make informed decisions
The Woodlands Area Economic Devel-
this dynamic community where they can
and smooth transitions. Learn more at
opment Partnership can help existing
live, work and grow. It is a direct link to
www.edpartnership.net. ď Ź
expand
or
help
move
WHERE BUSINESS AND INNOVATION MEET Deison Technology Park in Conroe, Texas
North of Houston and The Woodlands Adjacent to regional airport with U.S. Customs facility Sites ranging from 2 to 248 acres
All utilities and regional detention in place Four-lane direct access to I-45 Incentives for qualified projects
936-538-7118 • ConroeEDC.org
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in this section arts and culture parks & attractions sports & golf texas wineries dinning + shopping
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LEISURE & RECREATION
Take small towns steeped in history and tradition, mix in The Woodlands and other communities with increasing sophistication, sprinkle in dashes of lakes, parks and forests, and add weather that’s great for being outdoors. There you have the recipe for fun. Welcome to Montgomery County.
From art fairs to crawfish festivals, from live music to rodeos, there’s always a reason to get out and enjoy yourself in Montgomery County. And when you want to venture a little further from home, all the attractions of the Greater Houston region are right next door.
CONROE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAUS Discover all the entertainment treasures Conroe has to offer, including concerts, restaurants, golf courses, a calendar of events and more. You’ll also find travel planning and professional planners for business groups. Several helpful publications are offered at www.playinconroe.com or call 936-522-3500.
GREATER HOUSTON CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAUS Discover the fun side of the fourth largest city in America. The Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau (GHCVB) is the principal marketing organization for the city of Houston and Harris County and highlights all the venues, events, museums and fun things to do. It offers itinerary planning, information
for business travelers and conventions, a list of free stuff, and much more. Discounts and coupons are available on their interactive web site in both English and Spanish along with comprehensive information including an online events calendar, maps, video gallery, city blog. Visitor information packets and a Meeting Planners guide can be found at www.VisitHoustonTexas.com.
CITYPASS ADVENTURES See five of the most popular one-of-a-kind sights Houston offers at a discount with CityPASS: Adults -$59 – Children $49. You have nine days to use them and they save you nearly half off regular ticket pricing. Available at the Houston Visitor’s Center www.VisitHoustonTexas.com
THE WOODLANDS CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAUS The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau is always ready to share information about fun things to do and is a great resource for visitors, newcomers and residents. Whether it’s just the two of you, a
getaway with the family, a reunion or large gathering, or a business meeting, there’s something for everyone in The Woodlands. Try award winning restaurants, wine bars and world-class entertainment in Town Center. Or enjoy the great outdoors by renting a kayak or strolling along The Woodlands Waterway, taking in an outdoor concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion or hiking through the winding trails at the George Mitchell Preserve. Request a free visitor’s guide and map at
www.visitthewoodlands.com
or
call
877-963-2447 or 281-363-2447.
OLD TOWN SPRING VISITORS BUREAUS Enjoy a stroll back in time among more than 150 shops, galleries, museums and restaurants that line the shady lanes of Old Town Spring. Take in one of the many events and festivals held year-round, or just relax in one of the gazebos. For accommodations, tours and a map, visit at www.shopspringtexas. com or call 281-288-2355.
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ARTS, CULTURE s n o i t c a r t t &A
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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T HE AT E R DIS TR IC T Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org
won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards. Houston Symphony
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. 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 Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environment, 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
615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002
www.houstonsymphony.org The Houston Symphony’s mission is to “inspire and engage a large diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.” By 2025, the Houston Symphony aims to be one of America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestras. Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure 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 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. 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 FINE the Performing Arts www.spahouston.org The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a 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 equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities. 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.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.
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 whose instruction levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
M U S E U M D I S TR IC T The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
Holocaust, remembering the 6 million
5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org
Jews and other innocent victims and
Otherwise known as the “Garage Mahal”, 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.
The
Contemporary
Arts
Museum
honoring the survivors’ legacy. The Holoof
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 also offers special programs and educational opportunities. Admission is Free.
Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind
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 Chil-
Popular exhibits include:
The Menil Collection is an art museum
programs are free. They hope to educate and inspire by being readily accessible to future generations. The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org
DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion The Museum of
and the McGovern 4D Theater.
Fine Arts, Houston
presents its exceptional exhibitions and The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org As one of the most heavily attended museums
in
the
United
States,
the
Houston Museum of Natural Science
installations to Houston residents and visitors alike.
The Museum has numerous
collections that fill the galleries year-round embracing every era of history from across the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou Bend Collection not too far away. From
(HMNS) seeks to enhance knowledge
2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum
and delight in natural science and related
of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a
subjects. It houses the Burke Baker Plane-
magnificent two new buildings.
tarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, variety of permanent exhibit areas that
Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg. Houston, 77204
examine astronomy, space science, Native
www.blafferartmuseum.org
Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating
American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and minerals, Texas wild-
Blaffer Art Museum helps the community
life and more.
to engage in contemporary art through exhibitions, publications and public programs.
Holocaust Museum Houston
This art museum is free, and open to the
5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org
public in an effort to promote participation in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the
dren’s Museum of Houston will not leave anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place
The
for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.
dedicated to educating people about the
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The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org
no admission fee is charged and all public
member institution of the world-renowned
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.
pieces of history.
accessible to all is vital to their mission, so
interactive science learning center and a
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com
Community Remembers,” as well as other
welcomes special exhibitions. Making art
The Health Museum is Houston’s most
Photo courtesy of The Art Car Museum
exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A
that houses both permanent collection and
The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org
in the country.
caust Museum Houston has a permanent
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
Holocaust
Museum
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Houston
is
gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.
A RE A ATTR A C T IO N S The Woodlands Town Center / The Woodlands Waterway®
For more information visit www.thewoodlandscvb.com/www.visitthewoodlands.com.
Commission on Arts & Culture and the
The Woodlands Town Center, the downtown of The Woodlands, is a 1,000-acre destination for shopping, dining and entertainment attractions. The Woodlands Mall is a regional shopping center with more than 1.3 million square feet of indoor and outdoor venues. Visit Market Street, a 34-acre, Main-Street-styled shopping and special event venue. Waterway Square is distinguished by a 120-foot-long cascading water wall with dancing columns of water and fountains choreographed to music with colored lights at night. A children’s interactive fountain is also located in Waterway Square. Award-winning restaurants, new wine bars and great entertainment spots surround The Fountains.
The Woodlands Children’s Museum
The restoration of the Crighton Theatre
The Woodlands Waterway®, a 1.4-mile-long landscaped water feature runs through the heart of Town Center and links to the urban residential areas. Navigating around The Woodlands is not only easy, but fun aboard the Waterway Trolley or hop on a Water Taxi to explore all the sites along the corridor. Riva Road Boat House rents kayaks for those who prefer to do their own paddling. Eleven hotels to suit any budget, including AVIA, the all-new, boutique hotel located in Market Street, The Woodlands Resort, with its Forest Oasis Waterscape™, and The Woodlands Waterway Marriott, a four-diamond property. Town Center offers exceptional retail, dining and entertainment for residents and visitors.
Crighton Theatre Foundation.
began the preservation and renovation The Woodlands Children’s Museum creates opportunities that educate, empower, and excite children and families through play while inspiring a lifelong sense of wonder and discovery. Patrons can book their birthday parties, field trips and other educational outreach events by contacting The Woodlands Children’s Museum. They are ideal for ideal for children 7 years of age and under. Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits discovering creative and imaginative play experiences.
efforts that visitors see in downtown Conroe
Crighton Theatre
Texas where they receive protection and
today.
Great restaurants, shops, and art
galleries now occupy the blocks around theatre, and it has become a sought after venue for special events. For event and ticket information or to make a donation visit www.crightontheatre.org. St. Francis Wolf Sanctuary Wolves and wolf-dogs take refuge at the non-profit sanctuary outside of Montgomery, loving care. Volunteers run the sanctuary and
The Crighton Theatre is located in downtown Conroe, and is truly a historic landmark and Texas treasure. Then Conroe Mayor Harry M. Crighton, an oilman, built the theatre in 1934 in the style of the great Majestic Theatre in Houston using native stone. The Crighton flourished for many years but closed in the 1960s. The theatre was eventually donated by Crighton family descendants and the theatre was restored to its original grandeur.
give guided tours (by reservation only). On occasion, lucky guests have an opportunity to socialize with a few of the more tame wolves or wolf dogs. SFWS is also dedicated to the education of the public about wolves. Many visitors are surprised to learn that wolves in the wild are officially extinct in Texas. www. wolvesofsaintfrancis.org. Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is
The Crown Jewel of Montgomery County is now the home base for Stage-Right Productions, The Montgomery County Performing Arts Society, The Sounds of Texas Music Series, and Christian Youth Theatre, and a number of acclaimed musicians play there regularly. Productions at the Crighton are funded in part by a grant from the Conroe
an outdoor amphitheater surrounded by a lush forest. The Pavilion hosts contemporary concerts, is the Summer Home of the Houston Symphony, and past performances by Bette Midler, Van Halen, Tina Turner, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Britney Spears, Clint Black, Coldplay, and other well-known groups. The schedule of diverse
SCHLITTERBAHN GALVESTON ISLAND WATERPARK www.schlitterbahn.com With its huge array of awesome aquatic adventures, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island can be your personal happy place! During the summer season the park offers over 35 amazing rides and attractions. The Heated Indoor Season, October through mid-April, features more than a dozen heated attractions in a tropical, heated indoor oasis. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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SPORTS
& GOLF
Montgomery County offers a wide variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone: couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scenes. With year-round mild temperatures, getting up and getting out has become a way of life.
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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. Around the park, many restaurants, clubs and music venues hop, especially on game day.
The Houston Dynamo www.houstondynamo.com Photo courtesy of Christian Petersen / Getty Images
The Houston Astros www.astros.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
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
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 and the rest have launched the Rockets back into competitive contention.
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.
PUBLIC High Meadow Ranch Golf Club
281-356-7700
highmeadowranchgolf.com
The Village Golf Club
936-856-5531
thevillagegc.com
WindRose Golf Club
281-370-8900
windrosegolfclub.com
Woodforest Golf Club
936-588-8800
woodforestgolf.com
April Sound Country Club
936-447-1700
aprilsoundcountryclub.com
Bentwater Yacht & Country Club
936-597-6224
bentwater.com
Bluejack National Golf Club
281-475-2165
bluejacknational.com
Canongate at the Woodlands
281-362-0010
canongatetexas.com
The Club at Carlton Woods
281-863-5800
carltonwoods.com
The Clubs of Kingwood - Kingwood
281-358-2171
theclubsofkingwood.com
The Clubs of Kingwood - Deerwood
281-360-1060
theclubsofkingwood.com
The Golf Trails of The Woodlands
281-882-3000
thegolftrails.com
Lake Windcrest Golf Club
281-259-2279
lakewindcrestgc.com
River Plantation Country Club
936-271-1083
riverplantationcc.com
Walden on Lake Conroe Golf Club
936-448-4668
playwalden.com
Willow Creek Golf Club
281-376-1501
willowcreekclub.com
The Woodlands Country Club Palmer Course
281-863-1400
thewoodlandscc.com
PRIVATE
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
town, or in front of your own television. Go Texans!
GOLF Winters in Houston are mild and temperate, with the average high in January (the coldest month) at 62.9°F and the average low at 43.2°F. There are over 200 days of sunshine, so Houston is a golfer’s paradise. And there are plenty of places to play in West Houston. A wide range of municipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends such as Arnold
Photos courtesy of the Houston Texans
Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Fazio. Or watch the professionals grip it and rip it at the nearby Shell Houston Open.
Head coach Bill O’Brien and owner Bob
Sunday football is celebrated in NRG
McNair have put together an exciting roster
stadium cheering on the team, tailgating
In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA
that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and
with friends in the parking lot before and
professionals and First Tee Programs are
new up-and-comers, like Deshaun Watson.
after the game, at many sports bars around
offered throughout the greater Houston area.
M ON T GOM E R Y C O UN TY PA RKS Charles Traylor Memorial Park, located at 13551 Rogers Road, Willis, Texas 77378, is a 61 acre facility with eight lighted baseball fields, four lighted softball fields, one regulation lighted football field and covered horse arena with concession stands and restrooms.
linear feet of concrete trails funded by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Grant Assistant Program. The park consists of 12 acres of land acquired through Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) buyout properties and land donations after the 1994 flood disaster.
Gene Campbell Sports Complex
Lake Conroe Park
Gene Campbell Sports Complex, located at 3200 FM 1484, Conroe, Texas 77303, is a 60-acre facility with six lighted baseball fields, six lighted softball fields, concessions and restrooms. Sports programs are offered through Conroe Area Youth Baseball (CAYB) and Conroe Area Girls Softball Association (CAGSA). Private use of the fields requires prior permission from Montgomery County and the ball association and is subject to availability.
Lake Conroe Park, located at 14968 Hwy 105 West, Montgomery, Texas 77356, sits on the west shores of Lake Conroe and offers 13 acres of grounds, barbeque pits, picnic facilities and restrooms as well as swimming areas and fishing piers. Additional amenities include two covered pavilions available for rent, a softball field and volleyball areas. Admission is $2.00 per person, kids 5 and under are free.
Gwen Hruska Park
Mussel Pond Preserve is a 22 acre conservation easement under Legacy Land Trust located on FM 2854 in Montgomery County Precinct Two. The site is named for the unique native Texas freshwater
Charles Traylor Memorial Park
Gwen Hruska Park is located on Brandon Road in the unincorporated area of River Plantation three miles south of Conroe on Interstate 45. The park includes 5,022
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mussels (Unionidae) found along the edge of the ten acre pond located on the preserve. The formal opening of the preserve was in 2009. Montgomery County War Memorial Park Montgomery County War Memorial Park is located in downtown Conroe on Highway 105 in front of the Montgomery County Tax Office. The Veteran’s Park, as it is commonly called, was dedicated April 29, 1976 by Gerald Ford, President of the United States in memory of those who served our country. The Veterans of Foreign War, Montgomery County Democratic Party, The Patriotic and Historical Society as well as various other organizations, hosts ceremonies on Memorial Day each year commemorating fallen soldiers of Montgomery County.
Mussel Pond Preserve
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Montgomery County Nature Preserve The Montgomery County Preserve, located at 1122 Pruitt Road in south Montgomery County behind the Recycling Facility, provides a wonderful area for birdwatching, native plant
observation and hiking. The 71-acre green way, free to visit and open to the public daily, brings many ecotourists to southern Montgomery County. Local Master Naturalists as well as Butterfly Enthusiasts of Southeast Texas (B.E.S.T.) hosts official national butterfly counts, monitors water quality, and provides educational programs for area citizens. Memory Park Memory Park is alive with native and naturalized Texas trees and plants, and there are walking trails, benches for relaxing, pavilions, a fountain, bridges, rainwater projects, a duck nesting area, specialized gardens, a naturalized area and waterfalls surrounding a large pond. The park contains a Shakespeare garden featuring a bust of the bard, signage in braille donated by the Lions Club, and various statues including the Honor Flight Eagle dedicated to the local veterans of World War II. Many of the plants and items in the park have been purchased and donated by families in memory of their loved ones.
ORWALL Sports Complex
Interstate 45 in South Montgomery County
The Woodlands Sports Park, located on Pruitt Road in south Montgomery County, is a 27 acre park consisting of softball, football, and baseball fields with concession stands and restrooms. The Park property is owned by the Woodlands Corporation and leased to Montgomery County who subleases with Oak Ridge – Woodlands Area Little League, Inc. (ORWALL). ORWALL maintains the park and facilitates the recreational programs. Private use of the fields requires prior permission from the association.
on Main Street. The site contains a small community building, a softball field and covered basketball court with four goals, picnic tables and benches, playground equipment, barbeque grills, and bike racks. West Montgomery County Park West Montgomery County Park, located at 16716 FM 149, Montgomery, Texas, 77356, is a 50 acre park with five lighted baseball fields, four lighted softball fields, two football fields, restrooms, two concession stands and picnic areas. West Park is
Sallas Sports Complex
maintained by Montgomery Youth Sports
Sallas Sports Complex, located at 21675 McClesky, New Caney, Texas, 77357, is a 20 acre facility with five lighted baseball fields and three lighted softball fields with concessions and restrooms.
Association and Montgomery Girls Soft-
Tamina Park
ball Association. Willis Ag Barn and Arena The Willis Agricultural Barn and Arena is located in the north end charlesof Charles Traylor Memorial Park. The covered arena with
Tamina Park is a four acre parcel of land
concession stand and restrooms is managed by
located approximately one half mile east of
the Willis Agricultural Booster Club.
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TEXAS
Wineries Wine is such a big deal in Montgomery that it’s celebrated on the third Saturday of September with the Montgomery Wine and Music Fest in historic downtown with three stages of musicians, kids’ zones, down-home Texas food and plenty of wine to taste and take home. Texas and the grape go back a long
agriculture and tourism, wineries attract
local vintners may be recent entrants into
way. According to the Texas Wine and
over 1.8 million visitors each year.
the world of wine craft, care, expertise and
Grape
Growers
Association,
Texas
simple hard work is starting to pay off and
is home to the first vineyard in north
In southeast Texas, rainy springs lead to
wine enthusiasts the world over are begin-
America,
Franciscan
long summer days and on the rolling hills
ning to take a sip and want another. And
priest sometime around 1662. Vine-
and gentle dells of Montgomery County,
Montgomery County’s flavors are gaining
yards continued to spread as European
with their warm breezes and micro climates,
favor; some of the best Texas wines are
settlers brought more grapevine cuttings
some of the finest ingredients for vine-
produced right here.
to mission outposts across the state.
yards and the production of wine are in
Today, Texas has at least 4,000 acres of
place. The more successful varietals grown
Wine is such a big deal in Montgomery
producing vineyard farmland on more
locally are Black Spanish (Lenoir), Blanc
that it’s celebrated on the third Saturday
than 400 wineries. In a perfect blend of
do Bois, Champanelle, and others. While
of September with the Montgomery Wine
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started
by
a
MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWCOMER GUIDE
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and Music Fest in historic downtown with three stages of musicians, kids’ zones, downhome Texas food and plenty of wine to taste and take home. While the majority of vintner’s doors are open to visitors for tastings and sales on most days, there are special programs and events that attract visitors particularly. Many local wineries host special events and concerts; some have themed tasting nights or parties; all are welcoming and eager to share the fruit of their labor.
WINE TRAILS Several times a year, select Montgomery Wineries are part of the Texas Bluebonnet
A sampling of Montgomery County Premier Wineries BERNHARDT WINERY
kick! You can also learn how to make
This down-home Texas winery is set in the rolling hills near Plantersville. Here, award-winning small-batch wines of classic varietals and unique blends are created, and visitors are treated to a fun tasting experience in a warm environment. But there’s much more here, too. The winery hosts many events, like the Summer Sunset Lawn Concert Series, the Vino Piazza Primavera – an artisan marketplace – weddings and other private functions. Plus, visitors can stay at The Loft Bed and Breakfast. www.bernhardtwinery.com
your own mead.
Wine Trail, a pleasant rural driving tour with stops for six or seven unique wine expe-
CORK THIS! WINERY
riences which may include wine tasting,
Started by a former business executive that wished for greener grass (or vineyards), the people at Cork This! make wine fun and have fun making wine, producing wines with names like “Party on your Palate,” “Rich Urban Biker,” and “Irreconcilable Differences.” It’s a favorite place for locals and travelers alike because wine tasters are made to feel comfortable and welcome. Cork This! Has a strong Groupies Wine Club and hosts numerous events. www.corkthiswinery.com
grape crushing and stomp, music concerts, wine paired dinners, vineyard tours, wine-related gifts and more. Enjoy the ride and taste your way across southeastern Texas. Spring Bluebonnet Wine and Cheese Trail happens over three weekends in March and among the Texas wildflowers and blooming viticulture. Harvest Trail occurs on two weekends in July, when visitors can celebrate grape harvest and crush while learning about grape production in southeastern Texas. The Texas Department of Agriculture has designated October as Texas Wine Month, and this is can be recognized with the October Wine and Sausage Trail during the first two weekends in October. Holiday Crystal Wine Trail, held over the first two weekends in December, lets visitors jump start their holiday gift giving, while enjoying a calming taste of wine. February Wine and Chocolate Trail celebrates Valentine’s Day over four days in February. For more information, go to www.texasbluebonnetwinetrail.com.
ENCHANTED MANOR MEADERY Enchanted Manor Meadery of Magnolia brews meads onsite at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Their meads are crafted from Texas wildflower honey sourced from a farm on the nearby Texas gulf coast prairies, which was selected for its location far from sources that could affect the taste of the naturally flavorful and nuanced honey. enchantedmanormeadery.com
The legendary griffin
is known as the guardian of treasure, and that’s what they’re producing here. www.griffinmeadery.com
RANCHER’S DAUGHTER Rancher’s Daughter was once a boutique in Western Winery; today it’s a boutique in downtown Montgomery with its own winery. Celebrating everything Texas, the shop sells 275 varietals of wine, while the winery produces wines with names like Highway 105, Spotted Mule, and Cowgirl Blush. Wine enthusiasts and friends gather on the third Wednesday of the month for Wine Down Wednesdays that feature speakers, wine and music.
WHITLEY VINEYARDS AND WINE BAR Whitley Vineyards and Wine bar is located in the heart of the historic district of Montgomery and features handcrafted wines. Owner Gina Whitley used to stroll through her 1/3 acre back-yard vineyard at sunset with a glass of wine, and dream about a future as a vintner. Today, that dream is coming true. A family operation, the vineyard and wine production creates quality reds, roses, and whites. Whitley hosts regular ladies’ nights and welcomes visitors as part of the annual Antiques Festival in the historic district of Montgomery. www.whitleyvineyards.com
WILD STALLION VINEYARDS Wild Stallion Vineyards began in 2008 with a small test planting of Blanc du Bois grapes, a variety most suited to the gulf coast region. The vineyard has grown to
GRIFFIN MEADERY
over three acres and a range of varieties.
Griffin Meadery is located in Willis and is producing small-batch, premium quality wine and liquid gold. Meads range from a cinnamon and vanilla combo with a festive flair, to ones that taste of black current, chocolate or even jalapeno, but beware: the last one has a
Both the 2014 Sweet Moscato and the 2014 Blanc du Bois (Dry) were Southwest Wine Summit Silver Medal Winners. Located near the Woodlands, The Wild Stallion Event Center hosts many events, like Sangria Saturdays, concerts and weddings. www.wildstallionvineyards.com HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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Delicious
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
DINING SCENE When it comes to restaurants, Montgomery County has one of the best in the nation, according to a new Yelp ranking. Tony’s Italian Delicatessen at 16283 Highway 105 tops the list of the website’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the US for 2017. The eatery’s menu boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods.
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7 leguas 15949 Highway 105 W, Suite 66 Montgomery, TX 77356 www.7leguasmex.com
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 6700 Woodlands Pkwy., Ste. 300 The Woodlands, 77382 www.perrysrestaurants.com
Black Walnut Cafe 9000 New Trails Drive The Woodlands, TX 77381-5208 www.blackwalnutcafe.com
Pho Dat Vietnamese Cafe 18024 Texas 105, Ste 600 Montgomery, TX 77356
Caffe di Fiore 10110 Woodlands Pkwy. The Woodlands, TX 77382 www.caffe-di-fiore.com Cozy Grape Wine Bar and Bistro 14340 Liberty Street Montgomery, TX 77356 www.cozygrape.com Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse 1900 Hughes Landing Blvd, Suite 400 The Woodlands, TX 77380-3794 www.fogodechao.com
Ransom’s Steakhouse & Saloon 300 CB Stewart Drive Montgomery, TX 77356 www.ransomssteakhouse.com Robard’s Steakhouse 2301 N Millbend Drive The Woodlands, TX 77380 www.robardssteakhouse.com Thai Wok In Resturant 15917 Highway 105 W Ste F Montgomery, TX 77356 www.thaiwokin.com
SHOPPING The Boardwalk Towne Lake 9945 Barker Cypress Rd. Cypress, 77433 www.boardwalktl.com The Galleria Houston 5058 Westheimer Rd. Houston, 77056 www.galleriahouston.com Houston Premium Outlets 29300 Hempstead Rd. Cypress, 77433
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria 20 Waterway Ave Ste 100 The Woodlands, TX 77380-3442 www.grimaldispizzeria.com
The Big Sombrero 19402 Highway 105 W Montgomery, TX 77356 www.thebigsombrero.net
Guadalajara Hacienda 27885 Interstate 45 N. The Woodlands, 77380 www.guad.com
The Pizza Shack 20873 Eva St Ste G Montgomery, TX 77356 www.pizzashack.com
Hubbell & Hudson Bistro 4526 Research Forest Drive The Woodlands, 77381 www.hubbellandhudson.com
The Republic Grille 4775 W. Panther Creek, Ste. 490 The Woodlands, 77381 www.therepublicgrille.com
Market Street
Jasper’s 9595 Six Pines Dr, Ste 900 The Woodlands, TX 77380 www.jaspersthewoodlands.com
The Toasted Yolk Cafe 2129 W Davis St, Suite c Conroe, TX 77304 www.thetoastedyolk.com
www.marketstreet-thewoodlands.com
Landry’s Seafood 1212 Lake Robbins Drive The Woodlands, 77380 www.landrysseafood.com
Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar 9595 Six Pines Drive The Woodlands, TX 77380-1531 www.tommybahama.com
McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers 17099 Walden Road Montgomery, TX 77356 www.mckenziesbarbeque.com
Tony’s Italian Delicatessen 16283 Highway 105 W, Suite 9 Montgomery, TX 77356 www.tonysitaliandelicatessen.com
Outlets at Conroe
Truluck’s Seafood Steak & Crab House 1900 Hughes Landing Blvd. Ste. 600 The Woodlands, 77381 www.trulucks.com
www.outletsatconroe.com
Nick’s Fish Dive & Oyster Bar 20 Waterway Ave., Ste 105 The Woodlands, 77380 www.nicksfishdive.com Ocean Boullevard Bistro & Martini Bar 1200 Marina Dr, Just off Highway 105 Montgomery, TX 77356 www.obbistro.com Olive Oil 373 Rayford Sawdust Road The Woodlands, TX 77380 www.oliveoilgreekrestaurant.com Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen 18165 Interstate 45 S. Conroe, 77385 www.pappadeaux.com
Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish 5901 W. Davis St, Conroe, TX 77301 Walden Yacht Club 13101 Melville Drive Montgomery, TX 77356 www.waldenyachtclub.com World’s Burgers 17099 Walden Road Montgomery, TX 77356 www.worldsburgers.com
www.premiumoutlets.com Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir Katy, TX 77494 www.katymills.com
9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands, 77380
Old Town Spring Spring Preservation League, 123-F Midway, Spring, 77373 www.oldtownspring.com
1111 League Line Rd. Conroe, 77303
Willowbrook Mall 2000 Willowbrook Mall Houston, TX 77070 www.shopwillowbrookmall.com The Woodlands Mall 1201 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands, 77380 www.thewoodlandsmall.com
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CALENDAR of EVENTS MONTGOMERY COUNTY EVENTS YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS
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O N G O I NG
Festival gives patrons the rare and special
Crighton Theatre www.crightontheatre.org Built in 1934, this beautifully restored Vaudeville-
era
visual, culinary and performing arts. The
Sounds of Texas Music Series
theater
in
downtown
Conroe is home to several local arts groups that present musicals, dramatic plays and concerts. The Crighton is also available for rent. For the schedule and more information, visit the website. Cypress Creek Cultural District www.cypresscreekculturaldistrict.org
For 20 years, this series has brought
opportunity to meet and talk with artists
quality, intimate concerts to Montgomery
from around the country, sample great food,
County, with classic and emerging artists
watch the Art of Food demos, enjoy live
playing in the historic Crighton Theatre in
music and entertain their families at their
downtown Conroe.
interactive “ARTOPOLY” area.
JANUA RY Taste of the Town at The Woodlands Town Center www.tasteofthetown.org Taking place at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott, Taste of the Town is the premier
Comprised of the Pearl Fincher Museum,
culinary event
Barbara Bush County Library, the Cypress
County. Enjoy mouth-watering appetizers,
Creek Foundation for the Arts and other insti-
entrees, desserts, pastries, and beverages from
tutions, this centralized civic complex on the
some of the area’s finest restaurants, caterers,
banks of Cypress Creek brings together art,
bakeries, deli’s and beverage companies. Your
music, literature, education and nature for more
ticket includes food, beverages and festivities.
of
South
Montgomery
than 1 million residents in the surrounding area. The District hosts several annual events, including CreekFest Houston. Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts www.pearlmfa.org The Pearl Fincher Museum brings worldclass art exhibitions and art education opportunities to the Montgomery and Northwest
Houston
areas.
Showcasing
rarely seen local and international artists, the Pearl offers free family programs as well
FE BRUA RY Texas Home & Garden www.texashomeandgarden.com Houstons’ Premier “One Stop Shopping Opportunity” for all your home & garden needs. From Windows and Doors to Ceilings and Floors over 700 experts, products, services and ideas all under one roof.
M ARCH
Montgomery County Fair www.mcfa.org The Montgomery County Fair Association is supported by more than 600 volunteers dedicated to supporting the youth of Montgomery County. The Montgomery County
Fair
Association
welcomes
everyone to the Fairgrounds in Conroe, Texas to enjoy shows, games, educational exhibits, a rodeo, carnival, and much more. This ten day event serves as a platform for youth to be able to display their projects in a public setting, having FUN! The Montgomery County Fair Association is also proud to award scholarships to students with and without Fair projects every year.
JUNE Wine & Food Week in The Woodlands www.wineandfoodweek.com One of America’s largest and most comprehensive wine and food events. This festival features celebrity chefs, more than 500 wines,
as Summer Art Camp. Visit their website for
The Woodlands Marathon
40+ events and tastings from 50 restaurants.
details on current and upcoming exhibitions
www.thewoodlandsmarathon.com
Join more than 10,000 food and wine fans as
and activities. Conroe Symphony Orchestra www.conroesymphony.org
The Woodlands Marathon is a BOSTON QUALIFIER and has seen will traverse the streets of Town Center and the community
The Woodlands uncorks this event. The Woodlands Fall Home & Garden Show www.woodlandsshows.com
on a single-loop 26.2-mile pretty flat course, This community orchestra is made up
finishing on the scenic Waterway. Participants
Exhibitors at the Spring and Fall Home &
of committed professional and talented
have the opportunity to run for charities in the
Garden Shows in The Woodlands are the
amateur musicians from all walks of life. It
Charity Challenge. Come join the excitement
finest companies in The Woodlands and the
was founded in the summer of 1997 with the
as we welcome close to 9,000 runners.
North Houston area.
mission of “adding to the cultural enrichment of the community, assuring a better quality of life for the Conroe area. The
AP RIL
JULY
The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival www.woodlandsartsfestival.com
Freedom Fest – City of Montgomery www.experiencemontgomery.com
soloists. For information and upcoming
The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival
Celebrate the fourth of July and enjoy some
performances, go to their website.
(WWAF) weekend event is a celebration of
down-home fun with a freedom parade,
CSO Season includes traditional classical treasures, popular favorites and featured
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
crafter’s
market,
baking
contest,
BBQ
cook-off, live music and the Freedom Fest Kids Zone.
O C T OB ER Autumn Art and Wine Festival – Old Town Spring
Fireworks Over Lake Conroe www.conroe.chambermaster.com
October is Texas Wine Month and Old
Celebrate America’s Independence with a
is the perfect place to enjoy the soft fall
BANG on Lake Conroe. Enjoy authentic Americana food, snow cones and fun at the party. The sky-popping fireworks will be on display over the south end of Lake Conroe.
AU G U S T
Town Spring with over 150 quaint shops weather and a taste of wine. Stroll main street as you enjoy gourmet foods and creative arts in painting, photography, clothing, jewelry and crafts by talented artists. Creekfest
NOV EMB ER Texas Renaissance Festival www.texrenfest.com The Texas Renaissance Festival is the nation’s largest, most acclaimed renaissance themed park. Each year, over 500,000 guests visit near Plantersville to enter an enchanted world of lords, ladies, pirates, elves and other fanciful and interactive characters. There are over 200 daily performances on more than 20 stages throughout the village, as well as shops, live demonstrations by craftsmen and plenty of food and drink.
Montgomery County Agricultural Fair www.mcagfair.com
www.creekfesthouston.com
Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival
CreekFest is a one-day festival held in north-
Since 1945, Montgomery County has cele-
west Houston to celebrate the arts and
Live music, street performers, car show, Kid Zone, fireworks and, of course, catfish.
brated its agricultural traditions with this
outdoors in the Cypress Creek community.
popular event. Come for toe-tapping enter-
Highlights include a 5k fun run, live music,
tainment and feel good about helping with
a marketplace, local artists, tasty food and
community scholarships.
much more.
S E PT EM BE R Longhorn Rod Run www.oldtownspring.com
Petfest – Old Town Spring www.petfestoldtownspring.com PetFest is a weekend event dedicated to finding homes for animals in shelters and
Antique cars compete in various cate-
rescue groups. It’s a fun-filled festival of
gories for prizes in Old Town Spring.
entertainment and education that raises
Stroll the streets and view these beautiful
money, volunteers and foster homes. Bring
vintage automobiles.
your pet!
Montgomery Wine and Music Fest www.experiencemontgomery.com
Bridgeland Annual Howloween Fest
Event to be held in the streets of Historic
Watch the Canine Frisbee Disc Club,
Montgomery. Discover Texas Wines, Texas
Splash Dogs and the popular doggie
Food, Texas Beer, and Great Texas Music!
fashion show. Enjoy the many crowd-
www.bridgeland.com
Annual Home for the Holidays in Old Town www.oldtownspring.com Old Town Spring’s shops and restaurants come alive with spectacular displays of holiday lights, plus strolling performers, festive exhibits and family friendly activities.
DECEMB ER Conroe Kennel Club All Breed Show www.conroekennelclub.org Sponsored by the Conroe Kennel Club at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds. All breeds welcome. Caroling On The Square www.thewoodlandscvb.com
and-canine approved activities. You and
Carolers welcome visitors and a special visit by Santa Claus on December 1 and 22 ring in the holidays. For a complete schedule
your pet will have a dog-gone good time.
visit their website.
NOVEMBER: THE LIGHTING OF THE DOVES FESTIVAL www.HolidayInTheWoodlands.com The Lighting of the Doves Festival is a long-standing tradition in The Woodlands that signifies the start of the holiday season in the community. Symbolizing peace during the holidays, the ceremonial illumination of the giant doves has attracted thousands of visitors each year. The Festival includes traditional and international performances, showcasing the cultural diversity of The Woodlands and holiday traditions celebrated around the world. Featuring snow play areas, vendor booths, children’s activities and strolling entertainment, Lighting of the Doves culminates with a special appearance by Santa Claus arriving by sleigh down The Woodlands Waterway and a dazzling fireworks display. 86
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