69
Kingwood
Sorters McClellan Rd
KINGWOOD MEDICAL CENTER
494
To 10
rk t Fo iver Wes into R Jac
San
Experience More of Life’s Best Moments
Dr
At Kingwood Medical Center, an HCA Healthcare affiliated hospital, our goal is improving our patients’ lives so that they can get back to what they love to do most. With board-certified physicians and a customized approach to
About The Leapfrog Hospital
healthcare, have peace of mind knowing the
Safety Grade
best care is available, close to home.
The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital rating focused exclusively on hospital safety. Its A, B, C, D or F letter grades are a quick way for consumers to choose the safest hospital to seek care.
KingwoodMedical.com |
22999 US Hwy 59 N, Kingwood, TX 77339 | (281) 348-8000
281.358.8888
ASSOCIATES NORTHEAST
When you are considering purchasing a home contact RE/MAX Associates Northeast for details on local home prices and availability. RE/MAX Associates Northeast is a full-service real estate company that has been proudly serving the Greater Lake Houston area buyers and home owners for 30 years. Our team of professional RealtorsÂŽ is ready to personally assist you with all of your real estate needs.
RE/MAX Associates Northeast is proudly serving the Greater Lake Houston area including: KINGWOOD
|
HUMBLE
|
ATASCOCITA
RE/MAX Associates Northeast
2940 Oak Street, Kingwood, TX 77339 www.northhoustonhomes.com RE/MAX Agents have the experience to get the job done in today’s market. Each office is independently owned and operated.
281.812.9400
contents | features 19 Master Planned Communities 31 Houston Cost Of Living 50 Places of Worship 61 Major Northeast Area Employers 62 Houston’s Active Lifestyle
ATASCOCITA | HUMBLE | KINGWOOD | LAKE HOUSTON | HUFFMAN | NEW CANEY
ON THE COVER Woodridge Forest Woodridgeforest.com Woodridge Forest is a 332-acre new home community located less than a mile east of US Highway 59 and minutes from the Grand Parkway, Sam Houston Toll Road and George Bush Intercontinental Airport. As part of the Kingwood Service Association, Woodridge Forest residents have full access to Kingwood pools and trails, as well as on-site amenities. The community is served by the New Caney ISD. 6 model homes open daily and new homes priced from the $200,000’s to the $600,000’s.
PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: Visit Houston Christian Petersen/Getty Images
22 62
Memorial Hermann Northeast The Art Car Museum The Covenant Preparatory School The Groves
EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Joy Oden Judy Van Cleve 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.
2
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
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 HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
3
contents | sections WELCOME TO NORTHEAST HOUSTON • 12
18
HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 18 19 Cities & Neighborhoods 21 Master-Planned Communities
HOME FRONT • 24
24
25 Home Ownership 28 Choosing a Realtor 28 Mortgage Options
Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com CEO Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans VICE PRESIDENT Robert Nusbaum
30 Credit Reports 31 Houston Cost of Living
EDUCATION IN NORTHEAST HOUSTON • 32 33 STEM STAAR 34 Public Schools
32
36 Private Schools
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal
OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Jill Roe
39 Higher Education
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 42 43 Moving Companies 44 Services & Utilities 45 Public Transportation
42
46 Airports
Paul Yarbrough
GRAPHIC DESIGN Debora Licón Northeast Houston Newcomer and Relocation Guide is published and
48 International Relocation 50 Places of Worship
distributed bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC For advertising information, please call 713-952-1916.
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 52
Although every attempt is made to
53 Area Hospitals
be as comprehensive and accurate
54 Finding a Doctor
BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 58
68
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
59 Area Associations
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
60 Houston by the Numbers
accept responsibility for any loss, injury,
61 Major Employers
or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.
LEISURE + RECREATION • 62 64 Parks & Attractions 68 Arts and Culture 72 Sports and Golf 76 Calendar of Events
4
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752 Phone: 512-266-2900 www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
LEADING MEDICINE IN YOUR COMMUNITY.
SERVING BAYTOWN AND EAST HOUSTON.
4401 Garth Road Baytown, TX 77521 281.428.2273
houstonmethodist.org/sanjacinto
WELCOME to the
LAKE HOUSTON AREA! Whether you are a new resident or just visiting, you too will soon be caught up in the pride we all have for this dynamic group of communities. The diverse communities comprising the Lake Houston Area offer a unique and attractive quality of life. The Lake Houston Area also includes Humble, Kingwood, Fall Creek, Summerwood, and Spring. Longtime residents and established businesses have created an irresistible character. Organized sports for the kids, a number of excellent golf courses, lush parks, and water sports on Lake Houston are only a few of the recreational opportunities in the area. Festivals, concerts, numerous restaurants, and theatres are a sampling of local entertainment. The ease of transportation attracts many people to relocate in the Lake Houston Area. Bush Intercontinental Airport, the gateway to Houston and international destinations, is minutes away. US Highway 59 is one of the most accessible freeways in the Houston and the recent completion of the northeast section of Beltway 8 makes traveling to anywhere in the Houston area quicker and easier. Our school districts and Lone Star College-Kingwood consistently earn top ratings in the state. In 2015 Humble ISD was name “Best Large School District in Texas” at the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program. We have outstanding medical facilities and churches of all denominations. The Lake Houston Area is great place to live, work, and play. Please come by the Lake Houston Area Chamber office at 110 W. Main Street in downtown Humble, and we will provide you information that will make you want to become a part of this dynamic community.
JENNA ARMSTRONG, IOM President and CEO - The Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce
110 West Main, Humble, TX 77338 281-446-2128 | Fax 281-446-7483 www.lakehouston.org
6
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
Build YOUR YOUR CASTLE. CASTLE. ew ! S w L ! e S EN E L N N D E N ODEOP P MO O MOW NOW N
Crystal Lagoon Crystal Lagoon
Resort-style Pool Resort-style Pool
3,000 sq. ft. Clubhouse 3,000 sq. ft. Clubhouse
Playground/Splashpad Playground/Splashpad
Build your castle within walking distance to Houston’s 1st Crystal Lagoon Build your castle within walking distance to Houston’s 1st Crystal Lagoon and 8-acre Amenity Village. Stretching through Balmoral will be the GreenBoLT,™ and 8-acre Amenity Village. Stretching through Balmoral will be the GreenBoLT,™ an Alternative Transportation Experience giving residents of the community an Alternative Transportation Experience giving residents of the community Quick Access to the Amenity Village. Choose from a variety of beautiful homes Quickoffered Access to the Amenity Village. Choose from a variety of beautiful homes by leading builders to create the Castle of your Dreams. offered by leading builders to create the Castle of your Dreams. New Homes from the $200s - $500s New Homes from the $200s - $500s
Our Family of Builders Our Family of Builders
WESTIN HOMES · HISTORYMAKER HOMES · D.R. HORTON WESTIN HOMES · HISTORYMAKER HOMES · D.R. HORTON COLINA HOMES · GRAY POINT BY GEHAN HOMES COLINA HOMES · GRAY POINT BY GEHAN HOMES
Join our VIP list at BalmoralHouston.com Join our VIP list at BalmoralHouston.com HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
Prices and availability are subject to change without notice. Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
7
WELCOME from
KINGWOOD A Special Hometown Community!
Over 80 miles of wooded jogging and biking trails wind excitedly through nearly 30 deed-restricted communities. Together these communities are considered the jewel of northeast Houston. As a master planned development we were able to place numerous conveniences found in few communities in the world. While doing so we have strategically placed our buildings of commerce gracefully among our forest so that seldom will you see a wire or a tower, even while you drive or walk only feet away from them. Does that mean we don’t have modern facilities? No, as a matter of fact our multi-company fiber optic offerings allow Kingwood Businesses to be on the cutting edge of high-speed data access while providing them a vital connection to local and global markets. Over 83,500 residents and businesses call Kingwood their home. Kingwood is located only 23 minutes North from downtown Houston on Highway 59, and only 14 minutes North from Bush Intercontinental Airport. Kingwood is not only close to these important business sectors, but also in close proximity to the Beltway or around the 610 loop, allowing for an easy commute to World-Class shopping, eating and the Houston Ship Channel. The Clubs of Kingwood is located within the Kingwood area, and is known for being the shooting location for the hit movie Tin Cup. Not only is location and entertainment key to the success of the Kingwood area, the fact that it is full of incredible business people waiting to serve you and your needs makes Kingwood an instrumental player in the Houston area market. That brings us back to welcoming you. If you would like to join us as we step deeper into the 21st century together, please drop us a line, give us a call, or simply come visit. There is plenty to do in Kingwood besides great eating, great golfing, great shopping, great fun, and great living. But we guess that is enough to call Kingwood a real home. Welcome to the Front Door of our Beautiful Community and to the Kingwood Chamber of Commerce.
SPARKY NOLAN President/CEO - Kingwood Chamber of Commerce
804 Russell Palmer Road, Kingwood, TX 77339 281-360-4321 | Fax: 281-883-0018 www.kwchamber.org
8
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
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 to
NORTHEAST HOUSTON The Intercontinental Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is one of the most unique chambers in TEXAS! ICC has been the organization that motivates, organizes and directs the efforts in our business community for 30 years. ICC members range from small entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies, which consist of thousands of employees. Our membership also includes several foreign consulates and members from numerous countries such as Mexico, China, Malta, Canada, Japan, and United Kingdom, just to list a few. In addition, ICC has offices in the Galleria, The Woodlands, Stafford, Mexico, Malta, Italy, Russia, Germany, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Poland, Ukraine, UAE-Dubai, and China. What makes us unique…ICC has created the Houston Community & Economic Development Center with the following ON-SITE services:
• Chamber of Commerce
• Malta Commercial Office
• Polo Club
• Economic Development Council
• Marketing Call Center
• On-Site Photography & Film Studio
• Business Incubator/ Accelerator Offices
• Multi-location Video Conference Room
• On-Site Language Classes
• Executive Suites for Office Rental
• Certificates of Origin & Notary Service
• Credit Card Processing Merchant
• Texas Workforce Commission Office
• International Document Translation
• US Department of Commerce Office
• Passport and Travel Visa processing
• SBA-Small Business Development
• Country Club Partnership with
Center Office
NorthGate & Walden Country Club
• ProMexico Commercial Office
• Business & Investor Brokerage Services
• Training & Conference Rooms
• Exclusive Partnership with the Houston
Services • Inpat & Expat Corporate & Employee Financial & Relocation Services • Cloud Services • Executive Car/ Transportation Services.
HICC membership and programs result in a ROI for your membership dollars. We hope you will become one of our partners so we can grow your business together.
REGGIE GRAY President - Houston Intercontinental Chamber of Commerce
12700 Northborough, 6th Floor Houston, TX 77067 Local: 281-408-0866 | Galleria: 281-408-4382 Toll Free: 855-839-4422 | www.houstonicc.org
10
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
17 AMAZING COMMUNITIES. SO MANY WAYS TO LIVE.
CREATING ENVIRONMENTS THAT CELEBRATE LIFE. At Johnson Development, we make more than just places to live; we create amazing communities for what you enjoy most. Whether you’re seasoning dinner with herbs from our Harvest Green community gardens, kayaking in Viridian, or splashing at our huge waterparks in Sienna, you’re sure to find that life is special in a Johnson Development community.
Willow Creek Farms
in this section welcome recreation culture shopping & entertainment
12
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
to e m o c l e W
NORTHEAST HOUSTON People are moving to Northeast Houston. Set along the banks of Lake Houston, the San Jacinto River, and nestled among the thick Pineywood Forest, this area offers residents a healthy lifestyle in the great outdoors.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON IS NATURALLY HOME Since the invention of air conditioning, the greater Houston area has continued to grow.
People are moving because Houston is home
They are moving because even though
to the most ethnically diverse population of
the Greater Houston area stretches over
any city in the U.S., and the vibrant arts and
627 square miles, it’s easy to get around
dining scenes reflect that.
using the freeways, toll roads, HOV lanes
Today, it is the fourth largest metropolitan
They are moving because the weather is
area in the U.S., with nearly 7 million people,
fine. While it can get hot and humid in the
and more people are moving here every day.
summer, (that’s when you’ll be enjoying that air conditioning), the rest of the year is
They are moving because there is work. Houston has a diverse economy with many academic institutions and strong biomedical, manufacturing, aerospace, and energy industries. While Houston’s overall economy
temperate and often sunny. They are moving because living is afford-
and METRO routes which are constantly improved and extended. Many businesses are in outlying hubs such as The Woodlands, Greenspoint and Kingwood, so people can often choose to live close to work. People are moving to Northeast Houston.
able in Houston due to home prices and
Set along the banks of Lake Houston, the
their stability. The area is not restricted
San Jacinto River, and nestled among the
by
natural
thick Pineywood Forest, this area offers
has slowed recently, it is showing encour-
barriers to development, and an extensive
residents a healthy lifestyle in the great
aging signs of righting itself and regaining
road system means all neighborhoods are
outdoors. Not only can they play in and
its traditional upward trajectory.
easily accessed.
on the area’s lakes and rivers, they can also
excessive
regulations
or
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
13
WELCOME TO NORTHEAST HOUSTON
appreciate the natural world at a variety of
employees are at work in their new state-
lovely parks, or try the many golf courses
of-the art campus.
in the area. Excellent historic and cultural museums, and fine performing arts venues
And housing starts have also increased,
also offer entertainment.
offering new families a wide range of options. The area offers everything from quaint
The communities of Northeast Houston are
cabins, modest houses in sleepy lakeside
approximately 20-30 miles from downtown
towns, waterfront lake houses, apartments
and tucked in and around the intersection
and rental properties to award-winning
of FM 1960 and U.S. Highway 59 North.
homes in master-planned communities and
Bush Intercontinental Airport, Houston’s
estates set on rolling acreages.
primary airport, is only seven miles away.
WEST LAKE HOUSTON / ATASCOCITA Atascocita began in 1757 as a Spanish fort built on Atascocita Trail. Today, the area is comprised of more than 15 subdivisions and is one of the fastest growing residential communities in the nation. It’s easy to see why. Located 18 miles northeast of Houston, Atascocita is edged by Lake Houston and has many parks, golf courses, and country clubs. In fact, the U.S. News and World Report named it one of the “Best Places to Retire.”
The newest section of the Grand Parkway,
With the opportunity for play on Lake
a 180+ mile circumferential highway,
Houston or the San Jacinto River, the
now links northeast area residents to The
beauty of the pine-filled woods, the easy
Woodlands, the ExxonMobil campus and
access to the airport, the Port of Houston,
other destinations. METRO, the regional
signature shopping and downtown, North-
Metropolitan Transit Authority, provides a
east Houston has it all. The area also has
variety of bus routes, Park and Ride facili-
exemplary schools, abundant quality health
ties, light rail and van pooling assistance to
care and a rich variety of housing options.
take area residents downtown or to other
There’s room for your family, too.
other recreational facilities.
business and shopping districts.
Housing options in this community are as varied: new home prices begin in the mid $100,000 and go up from there. There are also estates and acreage developments with homes for sale in the millions. Most subdivisions feature their own parks, swimming pools, tennis courts and handy access to
LAKE HOUSTON
The Humble Independent School District
Businesses and developers have recently
Created in 1953, Lake Houston is a 12,000-
provides
been busy in Northeast Houston. Many
acre reservoir that provides drinking water
Atascocita children. Adults can continue
new projects and hundreds of new jobs
to Houstonians and offers natural and
to learn at any one of 30 colleges within 50
have sprung up, including those at Gener-
recreational opportunities to many. Boaters,
miles of Atascocita.
ation Park, a new economic and lifestyle
swimmers, water and jet skiers skim across
anchor for the region, which, when
its shiny surface, while fishermen plum its
complete will comprise up to 40 million
HUMBLE
depths for catfish, largemouth bass, and
About 20 miles from downtown Houston,
square feet of innovative office space,
bluegill. Around its edges are hikers, bird-
about 15,500 people call Humble home (and
leading edge research, medical and life
watchers, naturalists and folks just looking
when they do, they drop the “H”).
sciences facilities, education and devel-
to get away from the big city.
opment campuses, and new shopping,
quality
public
for
Humble is prospering because it creates
dining and entertainment attractions.
Lake Houston and the areas surrounding it
a
Already more than 2000 TechnipFMC
are also wonderful places to live.
Advanced manufacturing,
14
education
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
welcoming
environment
for
business.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 17 >
BEST WESTERN PLUS ATASCOCITA
We Aim To Make It Feel Like You Never Left Home
We Welcome you to Houston, and look forward to making
This hotel in Atascocita also offers easy access and a
you feel right at home. At the Best Western Plus ® Houston
short commute to many of the area’s organizations and
Atascocita Inn & Suites, we aim to make it feel like you
corporate locations, including Riche Brother Auction ® and
never left home, which is why we’re always working to improve the property and ensure your stay is memorable. Each wel l - appointed room comes w ith many of the comforts of home, including a 46-inch LED television with
Kingwood Medical Center. George Bush Intercontinental Airport is just nine miles away, making traveling quick and stress-free.
satellite television and over 90 HD channels, free wireless
While staying at the Best Western Plus ® Houston Atascocita
Internet access, refrigerator, microwave, and more.
Inn & Suites, guests can enjoy visiting the area’s exciting
After a good night’s rest at this 100% non-smoking hotel,
attractions, including Lake Houston, Lindsay/Lyons Park,
wake up to a delicious complimentary full, hot breakfast
Humble Civic Center, Humble Rodeo, the GYM, Duessen
buffet. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of being
Park, Toyota Center and more.
within walking distance of so many wonderful restaurants. The Best Western Plus ® Houston Atascocita Inn & Suites also offers an outdoor heated pool, a hot tub, passes to Lifetime Fitness, 24-hour business center and complimentary
G o l f e nt h u s i a s t s w i l l d e l i g ht i n t h e fa ct t h at s eve n g o l f co u r s e s a re n e a r t h i s H u m b l e h ote l, i n c l u d i n g Walden Countr y Club and Tour 18 Golf Course. Those
fresh baked cookies and coffee. For those looking to host
v i s i t i n g t h e a r e a fo r l o ca l s p o r t s to u r n a m e nt s w i l l
meetings and events, we offer banquet and meeting
h a ve a s h o r t co m m u te to Ata s co c i ta H i g h S c h o o l
rooms - call today to learn more!
and Humble High School.
W
Winner of the M.K
Atascocita Inn & Suites bestwesternhumble.com
(281) 852-5665
IAH
Will Clayton Pkwy
69 U
[
8
1960
cita
sco
Ata
Hou West ston Lak Par e kwa y
• 100% Smoke Free Hotel • Full Hot Breakfast Buffet • 46” LED TV’s w/ 90HD Channels • Microwave & Refrigerator • 24Hr Business Center • Kitchenettes Available • Outdoor Heated Pool & Spa • High Speed Wireless Internet • 24Hr Sundry Shop • Guest Laundry Facilities • Walking Distance to Local Dining • Easy Access to Area Attractions • Complimentary Fresh Baked Cookies • Banquet & Meeting Space Available
(281) 852-5665
J
Welcome to Humble!
Winner of Best Western’s most prestigious award the M.K. Guertin Award for service and quality
100% Smoke Free Hotel Full Hot Breakfast Buffet 46” LED TV’s w/ 90HD Channels Microwave & Refrigerator 24Hr Business Center Kitchenettes Available Outdoor Heated Pool & Spa High Speed Wireless Internet 24Hr Sundry Shop Guest Laundry Facilities Houston Atascocita Inn &Dining Suites Walking Distance to Local Easy Access to Area Attractions Complimentary Fresh Baked Cookies Banquet & Meeting Space Available
7730 FM 1960 Rd. East, Humble, TX 77346 | bwhumble@gmail.com ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
Lake Houston
7730 FM
WELCOME TO NORTHEAST HOUSTON
Montgomery County
430'
WALKER
ree k
Harris County
525
1093
Per Capita Inc......................$55,088
FO
R
T
D
59
Stafford Missouri City
90A
UP
LR
521
PTRA
865
South Houston
William P. Hobby Airport
UP
BATTLESHIP TEXAS 134
225
Deer Park LR LR
10
330
SAN JACINTO MONUMENT
UP
La Porte
146
Baytown 99
Morgans Point
146
Shoreacres Taylor Johnson Lake Village k 35 Space ee Cr r ea Cl 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
G
Harris County © Texas Almanac
288
Ferry
Pasadena
1942
ton el us ann Ho Ch ip Sh
Retail Sales..............$88,892,139,887
1876
N
Channelview Free
Galena Park
610
Barrett Highlands McNair
8
Jacinto City
BNSF
BE
FT. BEND PARKWA Y
Prop. Value............$472,155,923,085
6
UP
u Bayo fa l o BufBarker Reservoir
UP
99
to
Sheldon
0
16
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
CHAMBERS
Barker
10
er
Ja ci n
u
Wages......................$37,346,009,148
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
Crosby n
o Bay
UP Katy
Unemployed.................................5.3
HOUSTON
Addicks Reservoir
SHELDON LAKE STATE PARK
SHELDON WILDLIFE MGMT AREA
v Ri
LR
Civilian labor......................2,279,367
yo u Greens Ba
UP
HARDY AD TOLL RO
529
59
90
UP
Sa
Aldine
Jersey Village
6
2100
Lake Houston
Cedar
Cypre
July mean max...........................90.7
8
1960
Huffman
Bay
George Bush 69 Humble Intercontinental Airport
Cypress ek ss Cre
LR
Atascocita
on
6
UP 99
1960
nt o
Y
LR
LR
RT
Klein
Kingwood
BE
SF
LR
290
Spring
2920
rk Fo i st We Jac n Sa
99
BN
Hockley
LR
Tomball
2920 LR
Waller
1485
UP
LI
LR
MONTGOMERY
45
Hufsmith
eek
st
Spring Cr
R
Jan. mean. min..........................43.4
2978 249
UP
362 1488
310'
LLE
Rainfall (in.)...............................56.81
59
WA
Altitude (ft.).................sea level–310
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
494
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.
Area (sq.mi.)..........................1,777.5 Land area(sq.mi.)..................1,703.5
Retail Sales.........................$7,833,735,189
LR
ve
362
Prop. Value.......................$54,317,835,443
al
Change fm 2010........................10.9
1736
Per Capita Inc...............................$60,490
Ea San st Fork Jacinto
Population..........................4,538,028
1485
Porter 69
to
HOUSTON
Wages.................................$2,191,523,418
UP
Sp rin gC
Unemployed..........................................4.8 Patton Village Roman Forest
UP
Montgomery County © Texas Almanac
1314
rk Fo r st Rive We in c Ja
LR
Civilian labor..................................259,473
UP
45
242
New Caney
99
July mean max. ..................................93.5
Splendora
Woodbranch
San
HARRIS
2090
re ek
Shenandoah The Ridge Woodlands Oak North
Jan. mean. min...................................40.4
Ea San Jacst For into k Ri v er
LR
59
TY
2978
LR
ER
Grangerland
Woodloch
UP
Stagecoach Decker Prairie
3083
242
LR LR
Rainfall (in.) .......................................48.77
Fostoria
BNSF
1485
75
C
249 U P
Altitude (ft.) ....................................50–430
LIB
1488 149
8 MILES
Cut and Shoot
y ne Ca
WALLER
LR
W.G. JONES STATE FOREST
Mostyn
Pinehurst
TO
CONROE
1774
Land area(sq.mi.)...........................1,041.7 0
105
336
1488
Area (sq.mi.)...................................1,076.9
1484
3083
2854
1486
Magnolia
1484
336
LR
1774
2432
N
SF BN
F
BNS
149
CI
Panorama Village
Dobbin
105
LR
830
Change fm 2010.................................17.9
JA
Montgomery
Population......................................537,559
SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL FOREST Cr eek
ch
Lake Conroe
Willis
a Pe
1486
Lewis Creek Reservoir
1097
N
149
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
healthcare, biotechnology, energy, aero-
School-aged children in Kingwood are
space and aviation are some of the
EAST OF LAKE HOUSTON
served by the Humble Independent School
Crosby-Huffman
industries thriving in the area. And if
district and several excellent private schools.
On the east side of Lake Houston are the
there are jobs, people will come, and the
towns of Crosby and Huffman. Only about a
burgeoning number of homes and ameni-
NORTH OF KINGWOOD
ties reflect that. Plus, living in Humble is
Porter
easy; the city’s forested environs include
is still picturesque. There are still modest
Just north of Kingwood is Porter which
many parks and golf courses, excellent
houses available for rent or sale, (starting
was once the seat of Montgomery County,
schools, two major hospitals and Deer-
under $100,000), but new neighborhoods
but now it lies within the greater Houston
brook Mall, a one million square-foot
offering custom homes by excellent builders
area. Previously, a sleepy village that served
development. New homes and resale
are also springing up.
the needs of the farm, livestock and timber
properties range in price from $90,000 to
industries, it is now an enchanting place to
The resort-style community, The Commons
$1,000,000 and up.
live where leafy trails link lovely neighbor-
of Lake Houston, offers waterfront and
hood homes to parks, lakes and commercial
wooded homesites and a variety of attrac-
areas. Children are served by the New
tions for residents including The Arboretum,
Caney Independent School District.
a 65-acre waterfront park and preserve
One of most exciting new communities is The Groves, an artfully planned neighborhood designed to bring residents closer to nature and each other. Amenities splash
include
pad,
a
one-of-a-kind
playgrounds,
wooded
trails, a Welcome Center for events like fitness classes and movie nights, and entertainment planned by a dedicated Lifestyle Director. In this peaceful oasis,
among
the
majestic
woods,
one might forget that the bustling big city are right nearby. Visit www. thegrovestx.com for more information.
The
‘livable
forest,’
with 30 miles of nature trails, a pool and New Caney and Splendora
pavilion, white sandy beaches and amenities
As you travel north on U.S. 59 North,
for boaters. Visit www.thecommonsoflake-
you’ll find New Caney, an unincorpo-
houston.com for more information.
rated area of over 18,000 people that pairs high quality of life with low cost of living.
Locals enjoy many festivals and celebrations,
With its small-town community feel, the
swing a golf club a one of the many nearby
City of Woodbranch Village has treed lots,
courses, race at the Huffman Motorsports
and modest homes available for less than $100,000, and new and larger homes priced in the mid $200,000s. The same is true for the nearby City of Roman Forest. The deed-restricted community of Northcrest
KINGWOOD Kingwood
is
a
30-minute drive to central Houston, this area
Ranch features a lovely, wooded setting,
Park, a dirt oval for karts and motorcycles, or just enjoy beautiful Lake Houston and all it has to offer.
CHANNELVIEW AND SHELDON RESERVOIR
many amenities and stunning acreage home-
Channelview is located on the northeastern
sites priced up to and beyond the $400,000s.
curve of the Houston Ship Channel and is
Other neighborhoods are Amberwood, Hill
where some of the most dramatic events
and Dale, and White Oak Plantation with
in the formation of Texas occurred; many
homes varying in age and price.
historic sites are located within minutes.
Educational needs for children are served by
The cozy, tree-lined neighborhoods are close to
New Caney ISD, which provides superior
industrial jobs, retail and commercial centers
academics and a wide variety of progressive
and downtown Houston. The area features
programs. Up the road, Splendora is named
stable, affordable housing ranging from the mid
for the splendor of its trees. Here, you’ll find
$50,000s to more than $500,000. Many apart-
rants, medical practices, banks, law offices,
many options for quality living, from acre-
ment homes are available in a variety of price
shops and other businesses meet the needs
ages to city lots. The Parkland community
ranges. Like much of the greater Houston area,
of residents, ensuring that they need never
offers a wide range of living options. The
Channelview and nearby communities have
leave this lovely community.
town’s children are served by Splendora
experienced rapid growth over the last several
Independent School District.
years and new single-family homes in desirable
planned community located 22 miles from downtown Houston. It is made up of 14,000 acres of beautiful homes, wonderful golf courses and wooded landscapes. Its 25 villages are connected by a 75-mile greenbelt and a few major thoroughfares. Residents enjoy many parks, 19 pools, sports centers, tennis courts, a boat launch, two country clubs and many activities and organizations. Commercial centers that provide grocery stores, restau-
However, getting to Houston is easy with
developments are being built.
Metro Park & Ride, the Metro Bus system
All along U.S. Highway 59 is shopping,
and High Occupancy Vehicle lanes on U.S.
dining and entertainment. And the new and
The Channelview Independent School District
Highway 59 (I69). The rush-hour commute
expanding Valley Ranch Town Center provides
and Sheldon Independent School District
is about 45 minutes on the main lanes,.
many more options for fun and activity.
serve the needs of the area’s children.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
17
in this section
Photo courtesy of The Groves
cities neighborhoods master planned communities
18
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS With a variety of lifestyle choices, it’s not hard to see why the Northeast Houston continues to grow year after year. Add a close to everything location, award-winning schools, and robust business centers and hospitals, and you’ve got a great place to call home, build a business and play sunrise to sunset.
In Northeast Houston, where there are so
Highway 59 North. Here, affordable, high
the Golf Club of Houston, the elegant and
many housing options, there’s a home that
-quality new homes sit amongst miles of
stylish homes of Fall Creek are set in a natu-
fits your taste, lifestyle and budget. You can
walking trails, multiple playgrounds and
rally wooded landscape and served by the
live on treed acreage, on a golf course, near
wonderful amenities like a swimming pool
acclaimed Humble Independent District
the water, in a quiet enclave, in a thought-
and tennis courts. Residents have quick
schools, including an on-site elementary at
fully planned community, or on a shady
access to Bush Intercontinental Airport,
the heart of the community.
street in an established neighborhood. Each
Deerbrook Mall, the Jessie Jones Nature
community is different, yet all share an
Park and Lake Houston. Younger residents
KINGWOOD AREA
openness of spirit, a heritage of discovery
can attend excellent schools in the Aldine
Kingwood
Independent School District, which ranks
The first residents of this master-planned
among the region’s most highly regarded
community (the largest one in Harris
school districts.
County) moved into their brand-new homes
and a sense of community. Get to know your new neighbors here.
in 1971. Since then, the area has become
GREATER WEST LAKE HOUSTON
Fall Creek
home to 65,000 people. Most of Kingwood’s
Fall Creek offers “so much, so close.” Just
Deerbrook Estates
25 residential villages have a neighborhood
15 miles from downtown Houston and eight
Five minutes from food, fun and enter-
pool and community services.
miles from the airport, the neighborhood is
tainment, lies the beautiful community of
infused with a welcoming spirit and enticing
Kingwood, known as the “Livable Forest,”
Deerbrook Estates, located just off U.S.
amenities. Within the natural splendor of
exists in harmony with pines, magnolias
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
19
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Livable Forest. Set amongst the fairways of the Oakhurst Golf Club, beautiful homes are connected by 75 miles of greenbelt trails, where residents can walk, jog, bike, roller blade, and travel around the community, visiting the many amenities, like the water spray park. Children attend schools in the New Caney Independent School District. Woodridge Forest Located just a mile from U.S. Highway 59 North, Woodridge Forest has carefully preserved the two natural creeks that meander through the community. Here, elegant homes allow comfortable, stylish living under a canopy of old-growth trees. Parks and schools are located right in the neighborhood and sports fields, Lake Houston access, Dylan Duncan Skatepark, world-class golfing, wilderness areas and and many other species of shade trees.
District. Visit www.barrington-kingwood.com
many other family-friendly amenities and
Hike and bike trails weave throughout the
for more information.
activities are nearby. Local schools are part
woods and lakes of the neighborhoods, providing ample opportunity for folks to
Kings Mill
exercise, relax and socialize.
This delightfully designed community offers charming amenities including a tranquil pool
of New Caney Independent School District.
GRAND PARKWAY Tavola
The city of Houston is not far, just 23 miles
and aquatic center, playgrounds, a scenic lake
to the south, but Kingwood residents have
and miles of wooded walkways. Residents
everything they need to stay close to home,
can retreat from the hustle of the big city,
including a thriving commercial center,
North and the Grand Parkway. Named after
breathe in the scents and sights of nature, and
many big-name retail stores, smaller shops,
an Italian word for a favorite gathering space,
relax in their castle nestled in the forest of
restaurants, and other amenities. In addi-
Tavola offers inspired living in a beautiful
Kings Mill. Deerbrook Mall, Lake Houston
tion, there are over 100 different clubs and
wooded community, designed with endless
and many shops, restaurants and services
activities for the whole family, with ameni-
organizations to involve residents.
are right nearby. The area is served by the
ties including greenbelts, a recreation center
Humble Independent School District. Visit
and pool, serene lakes, and breathtaking
www.kingsmilltx.com for more information.
views. New Caney ISD has opened Tavola
Barrington Kingwood Here,
residents
live
well.
Homes
in
Tavola is located 7 miles north of Kingwood and has easy access to U.S. Highway 59
Elementary, located at the center of this neigh-
Barrington Kingwood are surrounded by the
Royal Brook
back nine of the Lakes Golf Course of the
Responding to the demand for more new
Kingwood Country Club, and many offer
homes in Kingwood, the community’s devel-
spectacular views. At the heart of the neigh-
oper, Friendswood Development Company,
Valley Ranch
borhood is the Barrington Manor House,
is building a new village called Royal
In Valley Ranch, your family will find every-
offering a fitness center, media center,
Brook, located at the northeast corner of
thing it needs to flourish. When completed, the
computer center, billiards room, tennis
Mills Branch Road and West Lake Houston
240-acre Valley Ranch Town Center will be an
courts, infinity edge pool, and more. It’s the
Parkway. The first phase is now open, offering
epicenter for fun and activity with shopping,
perfect spot to gather with neighbors and host a
new homes priced from the $300,000s to
dining and entertainment. The Grove, a scenic
party. Barrington residents are right next door
$700,000s. The award-winning Humble Inde-
135-acre park and dedicated wildlife and
to baseball and soccer fields, horse stables, the
pendent School District will serve the village.
nature reserve, will lie adjacent to the Town
Kingwood FFA barn, the boat ramp into Lake
borhood. Visit www.tavolacommunity.com for more information.
Center and provide endless opportunities for
Houston, Deer Ridge Park and all the restau-
Oakhurst at Kingwood
natural fun. In addition, the Valley Ranch
rants and shopping they could want. Nearby
An integral part of Kingwood’s master plan,
Recreation Center features a family-friendly
schools are in the Humble Independent School
Oakhurst is one of the newest villages in the
water park with waterslide, splash pad, pool,
20
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
playgrounds and sports courts. Children living
also including GreenBoLT, and alternative
variety of activity to be found underneath.
in Valley Ranch attend schools in the New
transportation experience. GreenBoLt is a
There are multiple pools, including a junior
Caney Independent School District. Visit
concept for their trails will enable residents
Olympic-sized pool, a splash pool and a
www.valley-ranch.com for more information.
to commute through the Amenity Village
spray park, two community centers and
and community by way of golfcarts, bicy-
gathering facilities, as well as many parks,
cles, and segways, so that homeowners can
playgrounds and trails that link them. Chil-
be to their destinations in minutes. Resi-
dren from the community are served by
dents living Balmoral will have access to Bridges on Lake Houston some of the mostly highy regarded Humble Balmoral is a new 580-acre community Independent School District schools, as well being developed by Land Tejas in the West as quality preschools and private schools. Lake Houston area of Northeast Houston, located off Beltway 8 in Humble, Texas. Bridges on Lake Houston The location of Balmoral is convenient This beautiful master-planned community is in that they offer direct access to not only conveniently located near Bush Intercontithe Northeast Beltway, but also the Sam nental Airport, Beltway 8 and U.S. Highway 59 Houston Parkway and Woodland Hills North. It features a variety of new homes, as drive. What makes Balmoral specifically well as lakefront home sites. The area is served unique is their plans to provide top-notch by the Humble Independent School District. amenities such as Houston’s very first clear water lagoon that will be surrounded by Eagle Springs white sandy beaches. Balmoral is expected This masterfully planned neighborhood is to have an eighty-acre Amenity Village tucked in between U.S. Highway 59 North to keep residents entertained and make and Lake Houston, just south of Atascocita living life in their community comfortable and allowWoodridge for a fun lifestyle. Balmoral is Road. The tranquil leafy canopy belies the Ad_Half Page Horizontal_CMYK.pdf 1 10/16/17 11:57 AM
the highly esteemed Humble Independent
HUMBLE, ATASCOCITA AND HOUSTON AREAS
School District and can attend one of two elementary schools within the neighborhood. Visit insideeaglesprings.com. Tour 18 This golf-course community offers homes in and around the painstakingly recreated signature holes from the world’s most famous courses. Situated near U.S. Highway 59 North and Beltway 8, everything is nearby, including Lake Houston, Bush Intercontinental Airport, Houston and The Woodlands. The Humble Independent School District serves Tour 18. The Groves One of the newest and most exciting communities is The Groves, an artfully
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HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
21
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Photo courtesy of The Groves
Houston. Heavily wooded, with beautiful lake and lagoon views, this master-planned community offers many amenities. Residents can enjoy playing or working out at the community recreation center with its resort-style pool and splash pad, fishing in the stocked lake, and walking or biking on the miles of trails. Just 15 miles northeast of downtown Houston, the community is served by the Humble Independent School District. Waterway at the Commons of Lake Houston Residents of the Commons have Lake Houston, and all the opportunities for fun that come with it, right in their back yard. With peaceful nature trails that wind from one park to the next, piers, beaches and boat ramps, large wooded home sites and schools provided by the Huffman Independent School District, this green development is a wonderful place to call home. To learn more, visit their website, www.thecommonsoflakehouston.com.
EAST/SOUTHEAST OF LAKE HOUSTON planned neighborhood designed to bring
pool, pavilion and playground. Children
residents closer to nature and each other.
attend the highly regarded Humble Indepen-
Amenities include a one-of-a-kind splash
dent School District.
pad,
playgrounds,
meandering
wooded
Newport Seven Oaks Located near Crosby, Newport Seven Oaks is a tranquil neighborhood where residents can enjoy the swim and tennis
Summerwood When you’re in Summerwood, your car will get a rest. Most everything you want is contained in this 1,500-acre masterplanned community. Miles of parkland, trails and playgrounds are interwoven with beautiful homes, multiple pools, recreation centers, and gathering places. There’s even a full-time activity director to ensure that you’ll meet your neighbors at fun events. The Shops at Summerwood offer groceries, restaurants and services. Located at Beltway 8 and W. Lake Houston Parkway, the neighborhood is in the Humble Independent School District. Visit www. summerwoodtx.com for more information.
center, playground, 18-hole golf course and
scenic interior lake provides the central
Waters Edge
attractions and shopping centers. Schools
focal point of the community, with planned
Just as the name implies, Waters Edge
are provided by the Goose Creek Indepen-
amenities to include a recreation center, a
is settled on the peaceful shores of Lake
dent School District.
trails, a Welcome Center that hosts events like fitness classes and movie nights, and year-round entertainment planned by a dedicated lifestyle director. Living in this peaceful oasis, nestled among the majestic woods, one might forget that Beltway 8, U.S. Highway 59 North, and the bustling big city are right nearby. Schools are part of the Humble ISD. Visit www.thegrovestx.com for more information. Stillwater on Lake Houston Homes are now for sale in Stillwater on Lake Houston, a 191-home gated community that backs right onto Lake Houston. Some home sites offer water frontage. A
22
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
community lake. There are also walking paths, green spaces, and water fountains. Students are served by the Crosby Independent School District. Bay River Colony, Baytown Bay River Colony is a charming new-home community in booming Baytown. Family-friendly amenities include a neighborhood park, a playground, a sparkling pond and a winding walking trail, including the Baytown Nature Center and Eagle Pointe Golf & Recreation complex. Residents have easy access to Houston, employers in the Port of Houston area, and many local
of the main highlights of your stay is the FREE hot Bright Side Breakfast ®. Start your day with a choice of waffles, hot or cold cereal, fresh fruit, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, bread and muffins, sausage, all-you-can-drink coffee and juice, and more.
LA QUINTA INNS & SUITES
We Welcome you to Houston, and look forward to making you feel right at home. La Quinta Inn & Suites Houston Channelview consistently meets the needs of its guests, and this has been recognized with the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award for the past three years, including 2017. Located close to Downtown Houston, the newly renovated hotel is a favorite with both business and leisure travelers. Situated just off Beltway 8 at East Sam Houston Parkway North, the hotel is conveniently close to I-10, the museum district and zoo, and gives guests easy access to Baytown, Pasadena, Deer Park, and Channelview. During your stay, enjoy perks like FREE WiFi, free parking, pool, and the FREE hot Bright Side Breakfast ®. Pets are welcome at the hotel, and you’ll appreciate a 100-percent nonsmoking atmosphere. Staff engagement and amazing amenities are just two ways how La Quinta Inn & Suites Houston Channelview stands out. The hotel makes it a primary goal to anticipate and fulfill guest needs. Other wonderful features include a Bright Side Bistro & Bar that is open Monday thru Friday, a beautiful outdoor patio, gazebo, and bbq grills, and the latest Internet equipment, ensuring excellent connectivity throughout your stay. Start your stay right with a smooth check-in process, then relax and use the numerous amenities. Guests have access to a heated indoor pool, a fitness center, guest laundry, the Bright Side Market stocked with travel necessities and snacks, and a fully-equipped business center and meeting facilities. One
Ever y room in the hotel was designed with your comfor t in mind. Each space features pillow top mattresses that encourage you to wake up on the bright side ®, and you have in-room entertainment with a 42-inch LCD TV with access to 90 HD channels including premium cable channels. You’ll have the necessities as well, like an alarm clock, coffee maker, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, a microwave, and a refrigerator. La Quinta Inn & Suites Houston Channelview is ideally located close to Downtown Houston and popular spots like the George R. Brown Convention Center and NRG Stadium. Other nearby attractions include Minute Maid Park, the Toyota Center, NASA Johnson Space Center, and the Port of Houston. If you love the shops, Northshore East, Blackrock Commons, and Pasadena Park Plaza are just a few of the places to add to your itinerary during your stay. Business guests will be near Generation Park, LyondellBasell, and major oil and gas companies. If you are looking for top spots to eat, try one of the many local favorites, including Tony’s BBQ, Longhorn Steakhouse, and Comala Mexican. The hotel staff’s commitment to superb service is what sets La Quinta Inn & Suites Houston Channelview apart. Staying close to numerous attractions, businesses, and places to shop are just some of the additional reasons why guests wake up on the bright side®. Book your stay today to experience top-notch Southern hospitality first-hand.
WAKE UP ON THE BRIGHT SIDE ® • Free Hot Breakfast
• Guest Laundry Facility
• Free Wireless Internet
• 24-Hour Bright Side Market
• 100% Smoke Free Property
• Banquets and Meeting Facility
• 42” LCD TVs w/90 HD Channels
• 24-Hour Business Facility
• Microwave and Refrigerator
• 24-Hour Fitness Facility
• Comfy Pillow-Top Beds
• Outdoor Barbeque Facility
• Indoor Heated Pool
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
La Quinta Inn & Suites Houston • Channelview
5520 E. Sam Houston Pkwy. N. Houston, TX 77015
(281) 452-4402 • lq6489gm@laquinta.com • 6489.lq.com
in this section home ownership choosing a realtor mortgage options credit reports houston cost of living
24
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
The
HOME FRONT With a variety of lifestyle choices, it’s not hard to see why the Northeast Houston continues to grow year after year. Add a close to everything location, award-winning schools, and robust business centers and hospitals, and you’ve got a great place to call home, build a business and play sunrise to sunset.
Houston is a city of choice. You can live
HOME OWNERSHIP
Proximity to shops and work? And the
close to your work, surrounded by nature,
There’s nothing like owning your own piece
big one: schools? Even if you don’t have
in a vibrant community, near exciting
of property to help you feel connected to an
children, buying in an area with excel-
amenities, or any combination of these. In
area and your neighbors. Northeast Houston
lent schools will pay off when it comes
Northeast Houston, almost every housing
has plenty of choices: brand-new homes
time to sell.
budget can be accommodated. Single-
ranging from those for first-time to move-up
family homebuyers can choose eco-friendly
buyers, townhouses and resale houses. All
designs, new homes in master-planned communities, luxury residences in gated enclaves or resale homes in established neighborhoods. You may want to consider
Of course, the cost of home ownership
have their advantages.
doesn’t end with the sale price; maintenance
The first consideration is location, loca-
thumb is to budget one percent of the sale
tion, location. Where do you want to live?
price for maintenance; another is to set
and repairs will be required. One rule of
What neighborhoods appeal to you? Do
aside one dollar per square foot per year.
leasing as well, and there are a range of
you want a new housing development with
There’s no hard-and-fast rule, but gener-
condominiums, townhouses and lofts avail-
the latest amenities, or a settled community
ally, upkeep costs will go up as the age of
able. Begin your search for the right home
with established traditions? What about a
the home increases. Most new homes have
at www.houstonnewcomerguides.com.
yard? Walking or recreational opportunities?
warranties that cover problems for the first
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
25
NORTHEAST HOUSTON HOME FRONT
few years. And home warranty policies can be purchased for re-sale homes. In addition, make sure you understand any deed restrictions or homeowner’s association regulations that might be in effect, along with any corresponding dues or assessments. Taxes vary by county, school district and Municipal Utility District (MUD). The good news is that mortgage interest and property taxes can be deducted from your federal income tax. The best place to start is with a professional REALTOR®, who will be able to guide you and your family to the right area and choice.
PRE-OWNED HOMES Very often, pre-owned homes are situated in established neighborhoods, allowing prospective buyers to talk to a couple of neighbors and get a feel for the block. Watch for great locations on golf courses, near parks, lakes or shops. Is the nearby school a good one? Is there a homeowner’s association, deed restrictions or zoning laws? Remember, you can change the house, but you can’t move it. You will also want to consider your commute. How far is it to work? How does that cost in time and money compare to the cost of the house?
were, and often this adds wonderful appeal and opportunity. Some homes are ready to move in; some need a little work; others need transformations. Before you purchase a pre-owned home, hire a licensed inspector to analyze the house, inside and out. Inspections will identify structural and hardto-spot problems that need to be addressed. If repairs are needed, be sure to get several estimates for the entire project. Even if the house is sound, you may want to do a little or a lot of remodeling. From painting walls to removing them, you may need to hire the services of a remodeling company to realize your dream. The Greater Houston Builders Association (www.ghba. org) is an excellent source of reputable home improvement companies. Use the chambers of commerce in this guide and the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) for possible sources of information on home repair companies and referrals.
NEW HOMES If building from the ground up appeals to you, the many outstanding homebuilders in Northeast Houston can help. There are many choices for home sites – in new and established subdivisions, on the waterfront,
Pre-owned homes are as different in style and character as their previous owners
26
on a golf course, even with a pastoral or forested setting on acreage.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
A realtor can quickly narrow down your site-selection process by matching the best locations to your needs; she can also work with you to find a builder. Some specialize in green building and energy efficiency or may have advanced training from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Be sure to tour model homes to evaluate the designs, features, and workmanship of each builder. The architectural styles, floor plans, interior finishes, appliance choices and other options vary, and it’s important to begin honing your tastes and preferences. Designers can help with selecting packages and upgrades to complete a home beautifully as well as on time and on budget. Production houses can usually be finished in 90 to 120 days, and most builders have homes in varying stages of completion and can accommodate newcomers who need to move in quickly. Please visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
for
a complete list of homebuilders in the Northeast Houston area. You may be dreaming about a custom home. While building one takes time and planning, the effort and wait are often worth it. Some customs homes are one-ofa-kind, created using original plans from the ground up. In other cases, builders work with buyers to customize rooms, adjust
square footage, add details or energy-saving
APARTMENT HOMES
pools, civic associations and deed restric-
features. Whatever your dream, it’s never
Many rental houses and apartment homes
tions. Most single-family houses do not
too early talk to a builder.
are available in Houston’s Northeast region
include utilities in the lease, so tenants must
right now, and prices are determined by
arrange for electricity, water, gas, cable and
location, square footage, and amenities.
Internet connections separately. Deposits
You will also want to view homes already built by the company and, if possible, speak
are usually one-month’s rent and there may
to homeowners about their experience with
Apartment locators or leasing agents at the
the builder and the process. Be sure to inter-
be extra fees for pets, utility installations or
complexes are ready to answer questions,
view two or more builders before signing
service charges
assist with move-in details and help orient
a contract. Ask builders how long they’ve
new residents.
Select properties provide
Texas protects renters. If residents fulfill the
been in business, how many homes they’ve
apartment information, floor plans, photos
terms of their lease, the owner must refund
completed and if they have any references.
and tours online. Many Northeast Houston
the security deposit in full, or provide a
units have fireplaces, ceiling fans, built-in
written explanation within 30 days. If not,
microwaves,
Once you’ve chosen the builder, review the contract carefully. You should understand if the final price is guaranteed, what the move-in date is and how upgrades or change orders are handled. Attorneys who specialize in construction
connections,
the owner could be liable for three times the
on-site recreational facilities and covered
amount illegally held. File complaints with
parking. Some complexes feature state-
the Houston Apartment Association’s Resi-
of-the-art gyms, movie theatres, sparkling
dent Relations department.
washer/dryer
pools, multi-purpose party rooms, executive business centers and more. Some facilities
TEMPORARY LODGING
allow pets. Most require a security deposit
Interim housing with a range of rental terms
and a credit card report; leases range from
is also available. Motels, hotels and luxury
six months to one year. Month-to-month
suites are often near major business districts
leases are available but usually command
and key roads, and can be found throughout
MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES
higher prices.
Northeast Houston. Short stays are a conve-
The popularity of master-planned commu-
Complexes have different plans for utilities,
nities has been one of reasons Northeast
cable and internet service, and additional
are available to review contracts and their fee may save you money in the long run, helping you to avoid misunderstandings and frustration.
Houston continues to grow. These communities are some of the finest in the country because they plan for the best use of the land, allowing exceptional living, lower environmental impact, quality construction, and a dynamic mix of residential and commercial uses.
deposits and activations services may be necessary. Apartment owners must install smoke detectors, locks on every door and latches on each window. Discuss any special housing requirements you may have with the leasing agent and be sure that the terms are written into the lease. In Texas, all real estate agreements must be in writing.
All of this adds up to thriving, vibrant
Go to the Houston Apartment Association
neighborhoods. Large parcels of land in
(www.haaonline.org) to download sample
Kingwood, Humble, Atascocita, Crosby,
lease forms.
and the Lake Houston area have been carefully set out for home sites and commercial
LEASING A HOUSE
use. Housing choices in master-planned
Need more than an apartment? Houses,
communities focus on single-family homes
condos and townhomes can also be leased
in a variety of styles, sizes and price points.
and are usually listed with area Real-
Schools, shopping, healthcare, transit and
tors,
other services are close to home.
or individual owners. Rental houses and
property
management
companies,
townhomes are listed on the Houston AssoMaster-planned
community
developers
understand that their designs are for people
ciation of Realtors (www.HAR.com) and are updated every 15 minutes.
and their communities are further enriched by youth sports leagues, welcoming recre-
Realtors are the best source for leasing
ation centers, and local events, all of which
single-family homes. Check out preferred
bring neighbors together.
neighborhoods,
considering
community
nient necessity during a move, but if you stay longer than 30 consecutive days, you will qualify for an exemption from the state’s six percent hotel tax. Be sure to advise the hotel of your extended stay and go to www. cpa.state.tx.us/ for an exemption certificate. (Always consult a tax professional for specific tax information).
MANAGEABLE, AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLE Although home prices have risen in Houston, it still ranks as one of the most affordable big cities in the U.S. for homeownership. Despite a flattening economy, Houston home sales stayed stable in 2016 and even gained momentum toward the end of the year, ultimately setting a record of 91,520 sales closed over the year, according to the Greater Houston Association Partnership. More good news comes in the form of relaxed lending standards that could benefit first-time buyers. In late 2014, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered mortgage corporations, relaxed lending guidelines that were tightened after the national housing crisis that began in
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
27
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? 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. 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:
• 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.
28
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
2008. Now, some buyers can get a mortgage with only 3 percent down payment and a minimum FICO credit score of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are also offered by various government agencies. Some groups, including teachers, police officers and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs. The following pages cover the basics of financing a home, along with some special considerations for unique circumstances in the Central Houston market.
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 Houstonians typically spend about 30 percent of their incomes on housing, so the city overall is right in line with that advice, albeit slightly on the high side. Experts also suggest that household expenses not exceed 43 percent of personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insurance, credit card balances, utilities, food and health care as well as any payments on outstanding loans and leases are expenses, while household income includes salary and other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of high-rises, mid-rises and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be considered in the overall expenses. Developed by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, the Texas Housing Affordability Index (THAI) measures the ratio of median household income required to buy a median-priced home, using a 30-year mortgage with a 20 percent down payment as its model. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that the median household income is just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the median-priced home. Houston’s most recent THAI was an impressive 1.79, higher than state and national THAI averages.
MORTGAGE OPTIONS Several different types of mortgages are common today. A standard 30-year fixed
rate mortgage is the most common way to finance a home; 15-year fixed rate mortgages are another option. The 40-year mortgage has become more popular in some parts of the country where home prices are rising fast, but many experts agree that the tradeoff of a slightly lower monthly payment for much more interest paid over the life of the loan does not make economic sense. 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, the principal has been repaid. The purchase price less the down payment is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing the principal by the number of payments in a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding the interest determines the monthly house payment. Escrow money for taxes and insurance is added to the payments according to the terms of the lender, and the amounts are recalculated annually.
The Alternative Mortgage Instrument (AMI) is a loan in which at least one of the four components vary. The most common AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins low and periodically adjusts either up or down within limits based on a pre-specified index. The initial low rate, and therefore, the lower monthly payment, enables the buyer to meet the income and debt-ratio requirement.
a 30-year fixed rate mortgage is likely to
DOWN PAYMENT
rate. Closing costs are typically paid by the
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.
be different from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate mortgages reset according to the terms of the lender.
CLOSING COSTS Typically between 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price of a home, closing costs include related fees such as costs for running credit reports, loan origination, appraisal, survey, title insurance, and discount points paid to lower the interest buyer at the time of closing.
PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is beneficial because it gives sellers a level of assurance that the prospective buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big plus in a compet-
INTEREST RATES
itive market. Pre-approval requires the
Interest rates fluctuate frequently and
completion of a loan application and some-
vary from lender to lender.
times a fee. Pre-qualification, on the other
Interest on
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29
NORTHEAST HOUSTON HOME FRONT
hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a prospective buyer might qualify for.
TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. For more information, visit irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
BANKS Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competitive rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services, different
accounts,
minimum
balance
requirements, ATM charges, availability of funds policy, direct deposit and other options. Contact the Texas Department
CREDIT REPORTS
of Banking toll free 877-276-5554 or visit
Lenders need your credit report, which is an analysis of
www.dob.texas.gov.
your credit history over the last seven-to-ten years. Called
CREDIT UNIONS
the FICO score, it includes your employment history, your
Credit unions are a good source to check
payment activity, the amount you owe, the amount of
for mortgage loans because they may offer
available credit you’re using, the length of the history, any
lower or competitive rates. Historically,
new credit and other factors. You will be scored anywhere between 301 and 850, with anything over 740 considered an
credit unions have been employer-based financial institutions but today it is common for credit unions to be community-based,
excellent score. Higher scores lead to better loans and lower
meaning that anyone can use a credit
rates. There are three credit reporting agencies and you
union as their primary financial institution.
may contact them to obtain your credit history.
Members are insured for up to $250,000 per
account
by
the
National
Credit
Union Administration.
FREE CREDIT REPORTS You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies once every 12 months. You can request all three reports at once, or space them out throughout the year.
TRANSUNION® 1-877-322-8228 www.transunion.com
EQUIFAX® 1-800-685-1111 www.equifax.com
EXPERIAN
®
1-888-397-3742 www. Experian.com
More information about credit unions is available from the Cornerstone Credit Union
League
(www.cornerstoneleague.
coop) and the Credit Union National Association (www.cuna.org).
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 premiums included in monthly mortgage payments.
30
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
Selecting an insurance company and determining coverage is the responsibility of the buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract to purchase a house is accepted by the seller. The Texas Board of Insurance (www.tdi.texas. gov) is a valuable source of information. In some fast-transitioning Central Houston neighborhoods, the value of the lot may represent a much larger-than-average share of overall property value, and it may be a good idea to talk with several insurance companies – especially those who specialize in the area – to make sure you are getting ample coverage and the best rate.
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS
Many companies offer discounts when
A variety of programs are designed to help
home insurance is combined with auto
first-time buyers, including FHA loans with
coverage, life insurance, health insurance
a 3 percent down payment discussed at the
and other types of insurance that they
beginning of this article.
The Houston Homebuyer Assistance program website has details at houstontx.gov/housing. Other programs include Southeast Texas Housing Finance (sethfc.com) and the Harris County Down Payment Assistance Program (harriscountytx.gov/csd).
may need. In Houston, flood insurance is required or recommended by mortgage
The City of Houston and Harris County also
companies in some neighborhoods. Flood-
offer homebuyer assistance programs that can
plain maps are determined by the Harris
provide down payment assistance and special
County Flood Control District, which has
financing for buyers who meet certain house-
a mapping tool at harriscountyfemt.org.
hold income and purchase price criteria.
Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders are also good sources of information about available homebuyer assistance programs.
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 2017) City
Composite 100%
Grocery 13.61%
Housing 27.59%
Atlanta
99.3
103.6
94.3
Austin
96.2
90.3
100.0
Boston
145.7
105.8
Chicago
123.5
Cleveland
Utilities 1 0.06%
Transportation 9.59%
Healthcare Misc. 4.00% 35.15%
84.6 103.0
107.9 103.9
82.0
90.9
100.3 100.6
204.9
139.9 111.4
133.3 127.0
105.6
156.1
91.3 130.4
101.3 114.7
100.2
112.9
84.9
111.1 100.3
99.9 104.2
Dallas
102.0
98.0
103.1
Denver
112.1
96.7
133.7
88.6
101.5 121.5 100.3
Houston New York (Brooklyn)
98.1 181.0
121.4
324.6
107.0
94.1
101.6 103.5
90.9 104.6
105.1 109.9
118.7
126.7
93.0 92.4 111.1
132.1
Phoenix
95.1
96.1
94.4
98.2 93.3
96.2 94.6
Raleigh
96.1 106.5
83.4
97.0 102.1
99.8 99.6
San Francisco
191.8
125.2
365.1
116.8
138.7
126.2
125.1
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
31
in this section STAAR public schools private schools higher education
32
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
EDUCATION IN NORTHEAST HOUSTON When parents consider moving to a new home, one of the most important considerations is the educational opportunities that will be available to their children. The quality of education in the Northeast Houston is the result of careful planning, commitment and high goals--quality is never an accident.
In Northeast Houston, there are a multitude of
System and San Jacinto College as well as
districts. Open-enrollment charter schools
quality private and public schools which you’ll
other well-respected universities and colleges.
have the flexibility to adapt to the educational
discover in this section. Be sure to consider the
needs of individual students for a personal-
specific educational needs of your child and
STAAR
meet with prospective teachers and adminis-
The
of
can achieve more. Select charter schools even
trators to ensure that your child is placed in the
Academic Readiness (STAAR) measures
provide curriculum that specializes in a certain
most appropriate school environment.
a child’s performance, as well as academic
State
ized learning environment where students of
Texas
Assessments
growth, college and career readiness. Eleven independent school districts offer
Results from STAAR calculate annual
public education in the area, and each works to
school and district performance ratings.
provide learning and extra-curricular options
Annual Assessments cover: reading and
for all students while meeting the Texas
mathematics, grades 3-8; writing at grades
Education Agency’s standards assessments
4 and 7; science at grades 5 and 8; social
and many have received numerous rewards
studies at grade 8; and end-of-course assess-
for their efforts. Most districts offer dual credit
ments for English 1, English 11, Algebra 1,
programs, so students can earn high school
biology, and U.S. history.
and college credits at the same time.
field such as the arts, mathematics or science. Some charter schools offer students in grades 9-12 the opportunity to take both high school and college courses at no cost. For
more
information
and
complete
district and individual school information, visit tea.texas.gov
STEM EDUCATION
Texas charter schools operate under and receive
STEM, an acronym for science, technology,
There are also many adult educational oppor-
academic accountability ratings from the Texas
engineering and math education, is an interdis-
tunities to be found at Houston Community
Education Agency and adhere to the same
ciplinary and applied approach that is coupled
College, Lone Star Community College
STAAR test requirements as public school
with hands-on, problem-based learning.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
33
N O R T H E A S T H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
According to a recent poll of U.S. CEOs,
school districts in Texas in educating Latino
The district has earned the Met Standard rating
employers will need 1.6 million new STEM
students, according to recent studies by
under the Texas Education Agency’s account-
employees by 2019. In 2013, the average STEM
Texas A&M University and the University
ability system for five consecutive years. Seven
occupation paid about $80,000 annually;
of Texas – Pan American.
Channelview campuses also received special
roughly 1.7 times the average yearly U.S. wage. The Texas science, technology, engineering and
mathematics
(T-STEM)
initiative
provides a foundational approach to empower teachers, inspire students and advance STEM education. There are 70 T-STEM Academies and seven blended Early College High School/T-STEM Academies serving more than 40,000 students across the state.
PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS Aldine Independent School District www.aldineisd.org The Aldine Independent School District ranks among the state’s high-performing school districts according to data from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). It has earned seven recognized ratings since 1996. Aldine ISD covers 111 square miles in North Harris County and educates more than 70,000 students. This ethnically diverse district is the second best large school district in Texas for educating African American students and is ranked third among large
34
recognition for their exemplary performance The district has 79 campuses: 1 Even Start center, 7 Early Childhood/Pre-Kindergarten centers, 35 elementary schools (grades K-4), 11 intermediate schools (grades 5-6), 10 middle schools (grades 7-8), 5 ninth-grade schools, 5 traditional high schools (grades 10-12), 1 Magnet high school, 1 night high school, 1 early college high school, 1 alternative education center and 1 dropout prevention center. Aldine ISD is driven by the goal of increasing student achievement and providing better educational opportunities for all students. Channelview Independent School District www.cvisd.org Channelview Independent School District (CISD) is a known for its reputation of outstanding student achievement. The district has an enrollment of 9,500 students and is located approximately 15 miles east of downtown Houston. The district has 12 campuses, including a Pre-K center, six elementary schools, one sixth grade center, two junior high campuses, one ninth grade center, one high school an alternative high school and an alternative discipline school.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
in different academic areas. CISD has a rich history of being “actively engaged in the future of the community”. The district was established in 1937 and at that time employed eight teachers. Today, the district employs the finest employees that are committed to making certain that every child in Channelview receives the best education possible. Crosby Independent School District www.crosbyisd.org Crosby ISD is nestled in the forested area east of Lake Houston, and is large enough to offer an excellent academic program yet small enough to identify and meet the needs of each of its over 5000 students. In its 7 campuses -1 kindergarten, 4 elementary, a middle and a high school -the district is working hard to provide education that “produces
literate,
responsible
citizens
capable of learning and applying academic and social skills successfully in any life setting.” For the 2015-16 academic year, the district earned only exemplary or recognized performance ratings.
More and more families are choosing to
rating, the highest rating from the Texas
the nation; once again, the district’s latest
settle in the area because of its quality of
Education Agency for 2016.
accountability rating was Met Standard, the highest possible rating.
life and convenience to major work centers, and so Crosby ISD continues to grow. With
GCCISD’s Career and Technical Educa-
its dedicated and experienced teaching
tion (CTE) program is rapidly expanding
An important component in Humble ISD’s
to meet student and workforce needs and
success is the support it receives from local
providing topflight education.
to help students obtain credentialing and
businesses and families. The Humble ISD
certifications. Technology is also a priority
Education Foundation has raised more
Galena Park Independent School District
in Goose Creek CISD. High school students
than $6.74 million to provide innovative
www.galenaparkisd.com
have access to iPads, and teachers use
and enriching classroom projects. The
Promethean Boards and iPads to enhance
most significant of these projects is the
The mission of the educators of Galena
instruction. Robert E. Lee High School
Humble ISD Insperity Observatory which
Park Independent School District is to
was recognized as an Apple Distinguished
houses space telescopes under a retractable
prepare students to become productive
School for making technology a major part
roof for scientific education and research.
citizens and lifelong learners. Over 22,500
of classroom learning.
In addition, the district benefits from the
Huffman Independent School District www.huffmanisd.net
have active PTA/PTO or PTSA organiza-
staff, the district is well suited to keep on
students are taught in 27 campuses situated along the Houston Ship Channel in east Harris County. There are 2 early childhood centers, 15 elementary schools, 5 middle or intermediate schools, a ninthgrade center, 2 traditional high schools, 1 early college high school and 1 center for at-risk youth. The Galena Park ISD Education Foundation works to enrich, enhance and maximize the quality of education for all students. With its community, local business and in the district, it has raised over one million dollars since its inception.
involvement of its parents. All campuses tions and engaged booster clubs for sports and fine arts groups.
The quiet bedroom community of Huffman is located on farm roads 2100 and 1960, thirty miles northeast of Houston in the piney woods of eastern Harris County. Huffman ISD’s enrollment is approximately 3,300 students, and they are spread across 5 campuses: an early childhood center; an elementary school, an intermediate school, a middle school and a high school. All campuses met the academic standards established by the Texas Education Agency in 2016.
Located 17 miles northeast of downtown Houston, it has 43 campuses more than 40,000 students and over 5,000 employees, who are all working to “develop each child intellectually, artistically, emotionally, physically,
The foundation has funded innovative teaching grants and furnished student scholarships.
With its growing, diverse
population Galena Park ISD is leading students to a brighter future. Goose Creek CISD www.gccisd.net One of the largest and fastest-growing districts in Texas, Goose Creek CISD
Students achieve success both in the classroom and in today’s interconnected world because Huffman ISD’s campuses feature a robust technology environment that continues to be updated and expanded. Students benefit daily from schools blanketed in wireless coverage, high-speed Internet access, interactive whiteboards, mobile devices, and a district wide 2:1 student to computer ratio.
serves 22,748 students in the communities of Baytown and Highlands. The district’s 1 primary school, 16 elementary schools, 5 junior schools and 3 high schools, as well as IMPACT Early College High School, John M. Stuart Career
Center,
POINT
Alternative
Center and the Peter E. Hyland Center, provide resources to equip students to be 21st century learners. The district and all schools received a “Met Standard”
Huffman ISD prides itself on instilling strong character values in their students through high-standard academic instruction, a variety of learning opportunities and extra-curricular participation. Humble Independent School District www.humbleisd.net Humble ISD students have a long history of outperforming students in Texas and
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
35
N O R T H E A S T H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
and socially so that all students are life-long
teacher-to-student ratio in core content areas
learners, complex thinkers, responsible global
and is continuing to close the performance
citizens and effective communicators.”
gap between the demographic populations that it serves. The district received a “Met
New Caney Independent School District www.newcaneyisd.org
Standard” rating from the Texas Education
The
Thinking of every child, every day, Sheldon
New
Caney
Independent
School
District is “a shining star in Texas education,” and has been the fastest growing Houston-area district for the last 3 years. Located approximately 25 miles northeast of downtown Houston in Montgomery and Harris counties, the district’s students attend
Agency, the highest rating given.
ISD provides personalized learning opportunities to ensure all students graduate college and career ready. Splendora Independent School District www.splendoraisd.org
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, Spring ISD’s strong performing and visual arts programs continue to be recognized regionally and nationally. The district’s 38 campuses include 18 schools built within the last decade, as well
classes in 9 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, 2 high schools, 1 early college high
With 3900+ students in 5 schools, Splen-
as numerous renovated ones, ensuring that
school, and one alternative education center
dora ISD is the smallest school district
students have secure, modern facilities in
with students in grades first through twelfth.
in the county, but can provide an educa-
which to become lifelong learners, critical
tion as individual as each child through its
thinkers, and responsible citizens – ready
NCISD graduates will be equipped to thrive
numerous educational opportunities in its
to contribute, compete, and lead in today’s
in the REALITY of their future: all third
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
global society.
to twelfth grade students are equipped with
pathways and early college high school. The
Chrombooks, teachers have on average 10
district’s personal graduation plan (PGP)
years or more of teaching experience; and
initiative allows 5th – 12th grade students,
more than 20% have a Master or Doctorate
their parents, and a counselor the opportu-
degree. All schools achieved the met stan-
nity to discuss and investigate future career
dard seal of approval from the Texas
and educational opportunities. The initiative
Education Agency.
also allows district administrators to antic-
New Caney ISD seeks to provide an exemplary educational experience in an environment that fosters positive and collaborative relationships between students, staff, families and community members. Sheldon Independent School District www.sheldonisd.com
ipate students’ interest levels for courses being offered and plan according to those interests.
Additionally,
Splendora
High
School offers 11 career pathways providing students numerous skills and certifications. Maintaining small-school charm, the district provides large-school technology and success. Splendora ISD is looking to become a district of innovation, creating an
PRIVATE SCHOOLS The Covenant Preparatory School 281-359-1090 • www.covenantknights.org The Covenant Preparatory School is the premier Christian college preparatory school in the northeast Houston area. Covenant is a school committed to engaging minds, cultivating virtue and purposefully and consistently implementing rigorous standards through a liberal arts curriculum in a distinct classical, Christian and college-preparatory culture.
Sheldon ISD serves a diverse student popu-
educational setting where every student is
Beginning with the 2015-2016 academic year,
lation of around 8,000 students on 12
empowered to be self-motivated, confident,
Covenant opened the Upper School Campus
campuses in northeast Harris County. By
an adaptable learner, a critical thinker and a
for students in grades seven through twelve.
Texas school district standards, it’s small,
productive citizen.
The Upper School Campus is located at
but it’s growing and the district is working hard to meet the needs of its developing community and continue to prepare its students to excel as productive individuals in the ever-changing global society. Sheldon administrators and educators do this by providing personalized learning experiences in partnership with school, family and community. Despite the challenges that an expanding student body presents, Sheldon ISD strives to maintain an equitable
36
Spring Independent School District www.springisd.org
3939 Glade Valley Drive in Kingwood. The Lower School Campus for students in grades PK4 through sixth grade is currently located
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.
at 1711 Hamblen Road in Kingwood.
Every learner can succeed in Spring, with academic acceleration and enrichment
Acreage has been cleared for the first
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
In the spring and summer of 2015, Covenant purchased the Upper School Campus building and over 34 acres of property located near Northpark Drive in Kingwood. phase of the new academic campus with
Schedule a personal tour and discover for
interactive learning, field experiences, and
yourself the Covenant difference. Visit
enrichment programs.
www.covenantknights.org/admissions or Including Kids, Inc.
call 281-359-1090.
281-852-0501 • www.includingkids.org Crossroads Early Learning Center 713-455-1661 ext. 1
Including Kids, Inc. in Humble, Texas, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, therapeutic clinic that
Photo courtesy of Covenant Preparatory School
completion of the student life center anticipated in 2019.
Please visit the school’s
video page to learn more about the Future of Covenant. The mission at The Covenant Preparatory School is to assist parents in developing individuals of strong intellect, spirit, body,
“Connecting Young Minds to Bright
serves the special needs community of King-
Futures”
Learning
wood, Humble, Houston and its surrounding
Center is a state licensed learning center,
areas. Including Kids provides children
serving children ages 6 weeks through 12
and families with autism and other related
years of age. They provide transportation
delays the wraparound support they need for
to Humble ISD and Sheldon ISD Elemen-
not only the child, but for the whole family.
tary Schools. Crossroads ELC teaches the
Whether it is through full time program-
ABEKA (a recognized Christian based)
ming at a one to one student to teacher ratio,
Curriculum, Spanish, Music, and Art.
or through after school programming, new
The children attend chapel weekly and
technology initiatives, family training, and
bible study daily. Crossroads ELC’s main
community outreach endeavors, Including
focus is to encourage children to learn,
Kids is making strides for the 1 in 68 children
grow, and enjoy being a kid. CELC also
diagnosed with autism in the United States.
Crossroads
Early
partners with the Case for Kids Program that focuses on integrating literacy and
Without early intervention, most chil-
numeracy into project based activities:
dren diagnosed with autism will not lead
and heart by providing a college preparatory education to pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade students grounded in Christian values and Biblical principles. Dually accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and AdvancED (formerly SACS), Covenant is a distinguished school in a number of ways. The school seeks to cultivate young minds through a rigorous academic curriculum rooted firmly in a biblical worldview and upholds a student culture that promotes a love for learning. Graduates are prepared to think critically at the highest academic levels with the ability to effectively engage
UPPER SCHOOL CAMPUS
the great issues of the day in a manner that
Grades 7 - 12th 3939 Glade Valley Drive
is informed, articulate and biblical. Chal-
Kingwood, TX 77339
lenging academics and sound theology impart an understanding and love for all truth by demonstrating the interrelatedness of every academic discipline as a reflection of Gods’ objective, unchanging nature. Discover Covenant through Admissions, Curriculum, Fine Arts, Athletics and Clubs and Enrichment.
PK4 through 12th grade Dually accredited by ACSI & AdvancED Classical instruction Biblical study throughout the curriculum Highly-qualified faculty AP classes at the high school level Championship athletics—16 TAPPS state championships Broad offering of enrichment and co-curricular activities at all grade levels Bus service to Atascocita, Summerwood and Fall Creek areas
LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS Grades PK4 - 6th 1711 Hamblen Road Kingwood, TX 77339 Admission - 281-359-1090 info@covenantknights.org
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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N O R T H E A S T H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
to care for each child, the whole child. Love,
Three, they protect the dignity of every child
along with a deep understanding of the indi-
so they feel loved and cared for. It says some-
vidual educational and emotional needs of
thing significant about an organization with
each child, is what sets Kids ‘R’ Kids apart.
the way they go about teaching.
It’s clear that this is a place where students are part of an extended family, learning and
What makes Kids ‘R’ Kids stand apart is
having a great time in the process. Here, the
that it is family owned and operated offering
philosophy of “Hug First, Then Teach” is
not only all-inclusive tuition, but also an
lived out by the staff of the school.
accredited and age appropriate curriculum that focuses on maximizing brain function
independent lives. However, research has shown that approximately 50% of young children with autism, who have received early intensive intervention, are able to participate indistinct from other children in typical school settings. Including Kids not only provides this early intervention therapy that is positively impacting children and young adults with autism, it has expanded its efforts for children and young adults who do not make it into typical classrooms due to a greater severity of the disability. These programs and therapies provided by Including Kids can mean the difference between being able to stay in the home until they become adults versus having to be placed in a residential setting due to aggression and safety issues. Including Kids also has unique partnerships with exceptional private schools in northeast Houston, such as Holy Trinity Episcopal School and Northeast Christian Academy, to
Today childcare centers and preschools are
and development providing a strong founda-
an essential part of your child’s education.
tion in science, technology, art, and math;
It’s where kids begin to develop social skills
the blocks upon which your child will build
and introduces them to classroom learning.
their academic success. For more information
Where you enroll your children is a big deci-
call today or visit www.krkfallcreek.com or
sion that will impact your child for years to
www.krkoflakeshore.com.
come. With Kids ‘R’ Kids, families with children from 6 weeks to 12 years old in the Humble, Fall Creek, Summerwood, Park Lakes and Lakeshore areas can be confident their children are getting the very best in childcare including an exemplary curriculum, secure facilities, age appropriate activities, safe and clean play spaces and most of all compassionate teachers giving your children the personal attention they deserve. The teaching staff are required to attend continual training and education opportunities to keep current and fresh on best practices and new insights to learning and care giving. The lead teachers for the classrooms either have their CDA (Child Development Associates) or are in the process of completing it. The school has a full time cook on staff whose sole focus is to prepare nutritious meals that will give the students
Primrose Schools www.primroseschools.com The Leader in Early Education and Care They are a private preschool providing premier early education and care for families by building a strong foundation for future learning and in life. Learn more. High-quality
early
childhood
education
provides children with the foundation they need to lead healthy, safe and productive lives. At Primrose Schools®, The Leader in Educational Child Care®, their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from Teachers with a special emphasis on character development to build the right foundation for Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts® in the first five years of a child’s life.
the energy to learn and develop in a healthy
Research shows the most significant brain
way. Transportation safety is important and
development milestones occur from birth to age
tion Agency approved, non-public facility.
as such, no vans are used to transport chil-
5. Babies are born with more than 100 billion
dren, but instead buses equipped with seat
nerve cells in their brains. These neurons must
Kids ‘R’ Kids 281-446-0063 • www.krkfallcreek.com 281-454-4244 • www.krkoflakeshore.com
belts. Drivers are carefully screened and have
connect and communicate with each other in
a CDL (Commercial Drivers License).
order to form the circuits needed to think, learn
integrate special needs students into typical classrooms. Including Kids is a Texas Educa-
and succeed – something neurons do at the The framework in the classroom that sets the
remarkable rate of 700 connections per second
Treating Your Kids Like Family - While
atmosphere of learning is upholding three
in the first five years of life.
nobody cares for your kids more than family,
principles. One, they protect the safety of
Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy comes
children at all times. Learning cannot take
According to The Center on the Developing
close. Maybe that’s because at the very heart
place until safety is established. Two, they
Child at Harvard University, “The strength
of their program is love. It’s intertwined
educate every child to the best of their ability
and efficiency of these connections is greatly
through every aspect of the center and
to help them reach their potential. Using an
affected by social interactions that involve
comes to life in an overriding commitment
age targeted curriculum helps in this effort.
an active back-and-forth – or ‘serve and
38
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
return’ – exchange of information.” Parents
• Ages 1-3: asking questions and using different character voices
Northeast Houston area: Primrose School
and educators play a critical role in creating these new and repeated experiences that lay
• Ages 4-5: discussing feelings
Springs, Primrose School at Fall Creek,
the foundation for a wide range of developmental outcomes later in life.
By frequently and deliberately pairing
“Serve and return” can be implemented with
meaning, Primrose students begin to learn
children of all ages to promote a variety of
language to its fullest extent. Addition-
positive learning outcomes, such as literacy
ally, by implementing “serve and return”
and language skills, social and emotional
and discussing problems and feelings
confidence, and executive functioning skills,
during playtime, children begin to develop
such as team-building and leadership skills. At Primrose Schools, the team of leading early childhood educators has created an integrated curriculum that carefully balances social, emotional, physical and academic learning based on age and development levels. For example, during story time,
words with objects and actions to create
of Atascocita, Primrose School of Eagle Primrose School of Kingwood, Primrose School at Lakeshore, Primrose School of Kingwood at Oakhurst and Primrose School at Summerwood.
To learn
more about the many lifelong benefits of enrolling your child at Primrose Schools, please visit www.PrimroseSchools.com.
important life skills, such as playing well with others, thinking outside the box and learning to cope with failures. The rapid development that takes place during the first five years of a child’s life is critical to success in life, and early educators play a pivotal role in fostering this growth.
HIGHER EDUCATION Lone Star College www.LoneStar.edu Keeping our community strong - Houston and the Gulf Coast Region can be full of
teachers engage students in different back-
Primrose Schools is the nation’s leader in
surprises. World class museums, five star
and-forth interactions by age, including:
providing a premier educational child care
restaurants and star studded entertainment
• Ages 6 weeks to 1-year-old: cooing and making facial expressions
experience in more than 300 schools in 27
are just some of the amenities that attract
states – seven Primrose Schools serve the
people from all over the world.
What takes them further: the answer or the question?
Coming up with their own ideas helps children develop bright and curious minds. Our Balanced Learning® approach sparks these lightbulb moments, helping children to thrive in life. The Leader in Early Education and Care® See Balanced Learning® in action. Call for a tour today! Primrose School of Atascocita 281.812.6361 PrimroseAtascocita.com
Primrose School of Eagle Springs 281.852.8000 PrimroseEagleSprings.com
Primrose School at Fall Creek 281.459.2023 PrimroseFallCreek.com
Primrose School of Kingwood at Oakhurst 281.312.1150 PrimroseKingwood-Oakhurst.com
Primrose School at Lakeshore 281.454.5000 PrimroseLakeshore.com
Primrose School at Summerwood 281.454.6000 PrimroseSummerwood.com
Primrose School of Kingwood 281.358.0203 PrimroseKingwood.com
Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools®, Balanced Learning®, and The Leader in Early Education and Care® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2018 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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N O R T H E A S T H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
Photo courtesy of Lone Star College
Another benefit the area enjoys is Lone
Many students interested in a four-year
Affordable, close to home, world class.
Star College. Many people are surprised
degree start at LSC, then transfer to the
When you add up all the benefits, you can
to learn that LSC has more than 99,000
university of their choice, saving thousands
see why more than 99,000 students choose
students walk through its doors each
of dollars without sacrificing quality. LSC
semester. LSC is today’s smart choice for students looking to earn an undergraduate degree, start a new career or update their skills.
Honors College at LSC for high achieving students and study abroad and international programs, programs not commonly associ-
Students choose LSC because of the extra
students can also take advantage of the
attention
they
get
thanks
ated with a community college.
to
their small class sizes, averaging only
High school students can get a jump-start
23 students per class, the convenient
on college with Dual Credit classes which
campus locations that are close to
allow them to earn high school and
home and the flexible schedules LSC
college credit simultaneously.
offers. No matter what their goals are,
save money on college tuition, complete
Lone Star College is ready to help them
their degrees quicker and build confi-
realize their dreams.
dence by easing the transition to college.
LSC is recognized as a world leader in
Students
LSC was recently recognized as a Top 10
workforce training and helps build a
producer of associate degrees, ranking
strong regional workforce in industries
third nationally among all community
like health care, construction, accounting,
colleges in the U.S.
energy, computer technology and transqualified
LSC is a proud member of the community
students find financial aid and grant
and a major contributor to the local and
funding options that can provide training
regional economy with an annual economic
at little or no cost.
impact of nearly $3 billion.
portation.
40
LSC
also
helps
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
Lone Star College. Visit LoneStar.edu to 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 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, Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being an authorized partner ensures that the students have the highest quality training materials and train on the latest products and technologies available. Courses provided fall into categories like desktop applications, technical training and professional development.
One of Texas’ Largest Colleges is Right Here in Your Backyard.
Flexible Training Approach Based on Learner Needs - They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy specific needs. Learning methods include Online
ANYTIME,
on-site
training,
private classes and Online LIVE. Online Live
removes
geographical
boundaries
from learning by bringing students and instructors together synchronously in a virtual real-time classroom environment. This program provides students all of the benefits of being in a dynamic interactive classroom – enabling students to study from
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
work, home or a New Horizons center. New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based lab solutions as well, allowing students to access their labs anytime and anywhere. The
state-of-the-art,
fully-configured
live lab environment provides students hands-on access to the systems and applications taught in the classrooms, empowering them to learn on their own schedules. A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for training quality and customer satisfaction as reported by an independent third-party learning and quality assurance
company,
Knowledge
Advisors.
Plus, research shows that New Horizons training yields a 4:1 benefit-to-cost ratio,
New home. New opportunities. New Horizons is the leading IT training company, providing training in everything from desktop applications, technical and professional development. Whether you want to brush up your skills or transition to a new career, New Horizons will set you on the right course.
based on manager surveys regarding the improved performance and productivity of their employees immediately following New Horizons training.
New Horizons of Houston | www.nhhouston.com | 713.552.1414
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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in this section moving companies services & utilities public transportation international relocation places of worship
42
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
RELOCATION INFORMATION
Obtaining as much information as possible in advance about Houston and Harris County will make your move much smoother, especially if you are relocating from out of state. To help get you started, the following pages offer some general tips on Houston’s basic services. More helpful information on moving is at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Moving is never without its headaches and hassles, but the more you know about the process, and your new environment, the easier the move will be and the faster you can enjoy your new home. Be better prepared to minimize and resolve difficulties quickly by reviewing this section. Here, you’ll find an overview of Northeast Houston’s local services and contacts, as well as state, county and local ordinances and information. There are nuts-and-bolts details on utilities, mail delivery, transportation and other basics. Online, you’ll find moving-related services like temporary housing, real estate professionals, mortgage officers, apartment locators and insurance agents. Find the people who are ready to welcome and assist newcomers at www. HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
USING A MOVING COMPANY OR DOING IT YOURSELF? If you’re not moving far, or don’t have much stuff, you may want to move yourself, but there are costs associated with that, like time and effort. So, most people choose to hire a reputable moving company which is in the business of transferring belongings efficiently and carefully. Moving companies will give free estimates, which are usually based on the distance to be traveled and the weight of the household contents. Some companies include the cost of boxes, wrappings and supplies in their bids; others break out these costs separately. Packing services, fuel, wait time, and storage costs may vary dramatically, so be sure ask about all charges. In a binding estimate, the items to be moved and the services to
be performed are all listed on the estimate, and unless the customer makes changes, the price quoted will be the amount due. A non-binding estimate is not guaranteed. The cost of the move is determined after the truck is loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20%. In this case, be sure to attend both the before and after furniture weigh-ins. In the not-to-exceed estimate, the mover provides a binding estimate, then weighs the loaded truck and reduces the estimate if the vehicle is lighter than anticipated. It’s best to hire a company that guarantees the pickup and delivery date; make sure these are included in the contract. On the day of delivery, you must be at your new home to receive the goods and direct movers to the placement of larger furniture
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
ENERGY STAR Meeting the strict requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ENERGY STAR certified new homes are designed for energy efficiency, delivering energy savings of up to 30 percent compared to most other new homes. There are many Houston-area builders building ENERGY STAR homes. Learn more about buying an ENERGY STAR home at www.energystar.gov. CenterPoint Energy’s ENERGY STAR for New Homes Program provides incentives and training to homebuilders to encourage the construction of ENERGY STAR certified homes. This award-winning program has helped reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. Go to www.centerpointenergy.com to learn more. items. If you are not at home, your goods will go into storage and you may end up paying additional charges before the movers will unload it. Although
moving
companies
provide
liability insurance on household belongings by the pound, it is wise to buy extra
SERVICES AND UTILITIES Forwarding Mail To schedule a change of address, simply go to www.USPS.com or pick up a change of address form from your local United States Post Office.
insurance that gives additional coverage, especially for those very special or very valuable items. A broken television is more costly to replace than a vacuum cleaner even though they weigh the same. Before the movers come, get prepared. Take inventory of your belongings and note their condition. If
the moving
company completes its own inventory, check it against your own before you sign it. If any of your items arrive at your new home with damage, photographic evidence will facilitate a claim, so consider taking pictures or video of valuable items before the movers arrive. Tax deductions may apply to your move, so keep the appropriate records and consult a tax professional. To find out more about your rights and responsibilities before you move, go to www.fmcsa.dot.gov.
44
Electricity and Gas CenterPoint Energy is the regulated utility in the Houston area and owns and maintains the electricity delivery system. It is also the primary provider of natural gas in the Northeast Houston area. For information, visit www.centerpointenergy.com. However, Houstonians have the power to buy their electricity from several companies. Retail Electric Providers (REPs) compete to sell electricity to homes and businesses and may offer lower prices, renewable energy options, added customer services and other offers. Before settling on a supplier, follow the three C’s: Contact, Compare, and Choose. Be sure to allow several days for the ordering process so electricity can be connected before the move-in date. If you are establishing service for a new home or building, a permit or inspection may be required. Visit www.powertochoose.org to compare prices.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
Water and Sewer Water, sewer and drainage services are typically provided by the public works department of each city or municipal utility district (MUD), which are divisions of the State of Texas. There are a number of districts in Northeast Houston and services vary. Contact your city of residence or homeowners’ association for detailed information. In the City of Houston, call 713-371-1400. Trash Pickup and Recycling Most Northeast Houston municipalities provide trash pickup. Call the Solid Waste Management Department or your homeowner’s association to find out which day trash is collected in your area and what fees to expect. Curbside recycling is offered in most neighborhoods and drop-off recycling centers are located throughout the area. For information about Houston’s Curbside Automated Recycling Program and a Recycling Calendar, visit www.houstontx.gov. Telephone, Cable and Internet Service Northeast Houston and East Montgomery County have five area codes – 713, 832, 346, 936, and 281. All ten digits are required when making phone calls. Help stop telemarketing calls by calling 1-888-382-1222 or by visiting www.donotcall.gov.
There are several providers offering satellite and cable television services, as well as high-speed Internet. Ask about bundled services, special promotional rates and discounts for newcomers.
PUBLIC SAFETY Police For emergencies only, call 911. The Houston Police Department, other municipal police departments and the Harris County Sherriff ’s Department serve the greater Houston area. Crime Watch programs operate in neighborhoods across Northeast Houston; contact your homeowner’s association or civic club to find out more. Crime Stoppers offers rewards for information that leads to an arrest and can be reached at 713-222-TIPS. Fire For emergencies only: call 911. The Houston Fire Department operates several stations within the Northeast Houston area. The Montgomery County Fire Marshall can direct you to your local fire department - call 936-538-8288
– or check with your city hall or homeowner’s association.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Harris County Toll Road Authority HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes are available on some freeways during peak periods to vehicles with two or more riders. Visit www.ridemetro.org or call (713) 635-4000. The Harris Country Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) operates approximately 132 miles of roadway in the greater Houston area. The Westpark Tollway, the Katy Freeway Managed Lanes, the Hardy Toll Road and the Sam Houston Tollway all have electronic tolling – there are no tollbooths, and no cash is accepted. Major sections of the Grand Parkway are also tolled. An EZ TAG or other interoperable Texas toll payment tag is required. The four Katy Managed lanes run from SH 6 to IH 610 down the middle of I10 and are free to carpoolers and vehicles
with two or more people during peak times; single drivers can use these lanes by paying a toll. For maps, rates and more, go to www.HCTRA. org. For real-time traffic reports visit www. houstontranstar.org.
AUTOMOBILES Buckle up in Texas. Children up to nine, or shorter than 4-feet-9-inches, must be secured in an approved car seat. Texas law also requires people who drive in Texas to pay for any accidents they may cause. So, you must have and carry automobile liability insurance. The minimum liability limits are $30,000 for each injured person, up to a total of $60,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage per accident (30/60/25). You have 30 days to register your vehicle after establishing residency, which you can do at your local County Tax Office. Visit www.txdmv.gov. New Texas residents who hold a driver’s license from another state, U.S. territory, Canadian province can legally drive for
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.
• 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.
•M ETRO 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
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
90 days after establishing residency, but must get a Texas Driver’s License before that period ends. Visit www.dpstx.gov to learn more. The Motorist Assistance Program (MAP) helps stranded motorists on Houston area roads. Offered by The Harris County Sherriff ’s Department and METRO, specially marked MAP vehicles are available and equipped to handle minor emergencies. Call 713-225-5627. Vehicle Registration: Two Steps, One Sticker Vehicle
registration
must
be
renewed
annually, and the vehicle must pass inspection in order to qualify for renewal. The blue-bordered registration sticker serves as a combined proof of registration and inspec-
AIRPORTS Bush Intercontinental Airport With over 800 departures each day to hundreds of domestic and international locations, Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is one of the busiest airports in the country and serves over 40 million passengers each year. www.airport-houston.com William P. Hobby Airport Serving Houston travelers for more than 80 years, Hobby Airport (HOU) served more than 12 million passengers last year. From here, passengers can travel to many destinations, including international. For more information about Houston’s airports and flight information, go to www. fly2houston.com.
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. Go to: www.registeredtexan.com to learn more. Harris County Tax Assessor 1001 Preston St., Houston 77002 www.hctax.net Montgomery County Tax Assessor 400 N. San Jacinto St., Conroe 77301 www.mctx.org
46
Legal records maintained by Harris County include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and
inspections,
divorce
proceedings,
taxes and more. Call the Harris County Court House at (713) 755-6411 or go to www.harriscountytx.gov. Liquor Laws The minimum age to buy or order liquor is 21. Liquor stores are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with no sales on Christmas, New Year’s Day or Thanksgiving. Drivers are prohibited from consuming alcoholic beverages while operating a vehicle. DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws are strictly enforced and carry a sentence of jail
tion with one expiration date. Vehicles may be registered for license plates
Legal Records
TEXAS GOVERNMENT Voter Registration You must be 18 years old, a resident of the county in which you’re registering and a U.S. citizen to vote. Simply fill out a voter registration application, which is available at a Voter Registrar’s Office, the Secretary of State’s Office, many post offices, libraries and high schools. You must submit your application no later than 30 days prior to an election in order to vote in that election. Call 1-800-252VOTE or visit www.votetexas.gov.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
time and a fine, even for first-time offenders.
PET LICENSING AND LEASH LAWS Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Any veterinarian can administer vaccinations and provide license tags, as well as information on keeping your pet healthy in Texas. In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing license tags and/or a leash can be impounded.
CONNECT CITY OF HOUSTON HELP Line............................................... 311 City Hall ....................................713-247-1000 900 Bagby, Houston 77002 Office of Mayor Annise Parker ...713-837-0311 Office of the City Controller Ronald Green.............................832-393-3460 Central Library...........................832-393-1313 METRO.....................................713-635-4000 Parks and Recreation..................713-845-1000 Property Information..................713-837-7719 Property Tax...............................713-368-2000 Water/Sewer/Garbage ...............713-837-9100 Vital Statistics.............................713-247-1686
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS District A –Brenda Stardig..........832-393-3010 District B - Jerry Davis ...............832-393-3009 District C - Ellen Cohen............. 832-393-3004 District D - Dwight Boykins .......832-393-3001 District E – Dave Martin.............832-393-3008 District F - Steve Le................... 832-393-3002 District G - Greg Travis ..............832-393-3007 District H - Karla Cisneros..........832-393-3003 District I - Robert Gallegos .........832-393-3011 District J - Mike Laster................832-393-3015 District K - Larry Green..............832-393-3016
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS AT-LARGE Position 1 - Mike Knox ..............832-393-3014 Position 2 - David W. Robinson ..832-393-3013 Position 3 - Michael Kubosh .......832-393-3005 Position 4 - Amanda Edwards ....832-393-3012 Position 5 - Jack Christie ...........832-393-3006
HARRIS COUNTY Auto Registration........................713-368-2000 County Clerk Stan Stanart ..........713-755-6411 Clerk’s Office – Marriage license.713-755-6436
Clerk’s Office –Real Property......713-755-6439 Constable Ron Hickman.............281-376-3472 County Judge Ed Emmett...........713-755-4000 Driver’s License..........................713-224-1919 Library ......................................713-749-9000 Main Telephone..........................713-755-5000 Precinct 1 El Franco Lee, Commissioner.....713-755-6111 Precinct 3 Steve Radack, Commissioner 713-755-6306 Precinct 4 R. Jack Cagle, Commissioner......281-353-8100 Permits.......................................713-956-3000 Property Tax...............................713-368-2000 Vital Statistics.............................713-755-6382 Voter Registration.713-368-2200/713-224-1919
Furniture Bank...........................713-842-9771 Girl Scouts..................................713-292-0300 Houston Area Women’s Center...713-528-6798 Interfaith Ministry......................713-522-3955 Junior Achievement....................713-682-4500 Licensed Day Care List ..............713-940-5200 Medicare....................................800-442-2620 Mental Health Association..........713-523-8963 Neighborhood Centers Inc. (Day Care Information)...............713-667-9400 Poison Control............................713-654-1701 Sheltering Arms Sr. Services........713-956-1888 United Way................................713-685-2300 Y.M.C.A.....................................713-659-8501 Y.W.C.A.....................................713-868-9922
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
CONSUMER RESOURCES
TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVES Patricia Harless, District 126.......281-376-4114 Allen Fletcher, District 130..........281-373-5454 Debbie Riddle, District 150.........281-257-4222 Armando Walle, District 140.......713-694-8020 TEXAS STATE SENATORS Paul Bettencourt, District 7 ........713-464-0282 John Whitmire, District 15 .........713-864-8701 UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Kevin Brady................................936-441-5700 John Culberson ..........................713-682-8828 Al Green....................................713-383-9234 Sheila Jackson Lee ....................713-861-4070 Ted Poe..............281-446-0242 / 866-447-0242 Gene Green................................281-999-5879 UNITED STATES SENATORS John Cornyn...............................713-572-3337 Ted Cruz....................................713-718-3057
Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500 Consumer Credit Counseling......713-923-2227 CSC Credit Service.....................800-753-1312 Consumer Fraud – Harris County................... 713-755-5836 Texas Consumer Protection – Attorney General........................713-223-5886 Texas Taxpayers & Research.......512-472-8838 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.....................800-638-2772 U.S. Consumer Information........800-688-9889
ART Cultural Arts Council of Houston & Harris County...........713-527-9330 Society for the Performing Arts...713-227-5134 Texas Commission on the Arts....512-463-5535
HOUSING INFORMATION Houston Apartment Assoc..........281-933-2224 Houston Assoc. of REALTORS..713-629-1900 Houston Relocation Professionals www.houstonrelopros.org
LEGAL RESOURCES Houston Bar Association.............713-759-1133 Houston Lawyer Referral Ser. .....713-237-9429 Texas Lawyer Referral Ser. .........800-252-9690
MISC. BUSINESS RESOURCES Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500 Small Business Administration....713-773-6500 State Comptroller of Public Accounts..........................713-868-9112 Texas Dept. of Economic Dev. ...512-936-0101 Texas Railroad Commission........713-869-5001 U.S. Customs..............................281-985-6700 U.S. Dept. of Commerce.............800-872-8723
FAMILY RESOURCES AARP – National Office.............800-424-3410 AARP – Southwest Region.........214-265-4060 Amigos de las Americas..............713-782-5290 Boy Scouts..................................713-659-8111 Child Care Council ....................713-266-6045 Children’s Protective Services......713-394-4000 Crisis Hotline..............................713-468-5463 Family Service Center.................713-861-4849 Food Bank..................................713-223-3700
Harris County Dem. Party..........713-802-0085 Harris County Rep. Party............713-838-7900 Houston Chronicle .....................713-220-7171 Houston ISD..............................713-892-7700 Internal Revenue Service.............800-829-1040 League of Women Voters............713-784-2923 National Weather Service............281-337-5074 Social Security Administration....800-772-1213 Texas Environmental Quality Commission...................713-767-3500 Yellow Cab.................................713-236-1111
SPORTS AND TICKET INFORMATION Houston Astros....800-ASTROS-2/713-627-9622 Houston Dynamos ....................713-276-7500 Houston Rockets.........................713-627-9622 Houston Texans..........................832-662-2000 NRG Stadium ............................713-289-2002
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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. 48
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.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
• 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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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PLACES OF
WORSHIP
Half of Americans have looked for a new church or place of worship, most because they moved. If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should easily be able to find a spiritual home in the Clear Lake area. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, and access to groups with common interests. If you are looking to make new friends, a congregation might be the perfect place to find them. * APOSTOLIC
BAPTIST
Lakeland Baptist Church.....281 441-9473
Apostolic Life Tabernacle ..281-852-2276
Atascocita First Baptist Church................. 281-852-2620
Landmark Missionary
ASSEMBLIES OF GOD Dayspring Church ...............281-354-3558 Embrace Fellowship Church ................... 281-689-8383 Gospel Assembly Church ...281-446-0004
Berean Baptist Church .......281-441-3292 Bread of Life Baptist Church .281-441-2506 Community Baptist Church .281-324-3871 Cornerstone Baptist Church .281-354-4660
Baptist Church .....................281-354-3134 North Belt Baptist Church ...281-441-2254 Northeast Houston Baptist Church .......... 281-812-8688 North Harris County Baptist Temple.......... 281-441-3529
Gospel Assembly Porter .....281-354-1744
Cypress Point Baptist Church ................... 281-360-8922
Humble First Assembly of God ................. 281-446-7215
Deerbrook Baptist Church .281-446-2790
Northview Baptist Church ..281-446-3513
Evergreen Missionary Baptist ................... 281-354-5055
Northway Baptist Church ...281-713-9468
Kingwood First Assembly of God ............. 281-446-7215 Kingwood Assembly of Christ .................. 281-359-3004 New Life Assembly of God .281-689-7558 New Life Church on Northpark ................ 281-360-7766 Pinecrest Assembly of God .281-354-3332 Porter First Assembly of God .281-354-3558
First Baptist Church Porter .. 281-354-3339 Faith Family Baptist Church .281-360-7576 Heritage Baptist Church .....936-588-6964 Humble Area’s First Baptist Church ......... 281-446-8168 Iglesia Cristiana la Cosecha .281-540-2506 Kingwood First Baptist Church ................. 281-358-4266
North Park Baptist Church ..281-821-2258
Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church .....................281-548-2001 Second Baptist Church ......713-465-3408 Suburban Wood Baptist Church............... 281-441-3959 Woodridge Baptist Church .281-361-6800
CATHOLIC Our Lady of St. John Church .713-631-0810 *Pew Research 2015
50
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
Resurrection Catholic Church ................. 713-675-5333 Sacred Heart Catholic Church ............... 281-328-4871 St. Martha’s Catholic Church .................. 281-358-6637 St. Martin De Porres Church .281-328-4451 St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church ................................ 281-446-8211
281-360-7936
River Crest Church .............281- 446-8591
Holy Comforter Lutheran Church ............ 281-358-6500
River of God Church ...........281 358-7770
Lamb of God Lutheran Church ............... 281-446-8427
METHODIST Atascocita United Methodist Church ...............281-852-1000
Rock of Ages Church ......... 281-462-0531 The Church of Foundation of Truth ......... 281-319-4008 The Daily Bread ...................832-249-0100 Tribe of Judah Ministries ......281-358-7770 Nuevo Pactos Church ........281-548-2098
St. Philip the Apostle Catholic
First United Methodist Church .................. 281-446-2332
Church ..................................281-324-1478
Friendship United
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Methodist Church ...............281-354-2326
Revival Center .....................281-548-7262
Church of Christ at Deerbrook ................ 281-540-1205
Kingwood United
PENTECOSTAL
Methodist Church ...............281-358-2137
The Pentecostal Church
Strawbridge United
of Atascocita .......................281-852-0147
Methodist Church ...............281-360-4500
The Church of Humble .......281-540-7729
Church of Christ at Lake Houston ........... 281-852-7946 Church of Christ in Humble .281-446-2562 Church of Christ Kingwood .281-358-3865 Lake Houston Church of Christ ................ 281-852-7946
MORMON Church of Jesus Christ.........281-360-7875 Church of Jesus Christ.........281-361-8710
Victory Outreach Church . 713-742-9000 Worldwide Prayer and
Christian Life Center ............281-319-4673 Centro De Fe Poder Y Milagros................ 832-644-9117
Porter Church of Christ ..... 281-572-2388
Church of Jesus Christ.........281-852-8901
Souls Harbor Pentecostal Church............ 281-446-9595
EPISCOPAL
NAZARENE
United Church of God ........281-446-1510
Christ the King Episcopal Church ............ 281-852-1990
Lake Houston Church .........281-852-6273
Church of the Resurrection .832-661-9693 Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd ..................281-358-3154
ISLAM Ghous-e-Azam Masjid ........832-366-4476 Islamic Society of Greater Houston-Northshore Masjid Isa ibn Maryam ................... 713-455-0786 Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall .......................281-324-1297 Kingdom Hall ......................281-441-7214 Kingdom Hall .......................713-330-0686 Kingdom Hall .......................281-399-7137 Kingdom Hall .......................281-354-2945 JEWISH Gethsemani Temple Northshore.............. 713-674-2872 Shalom Hebraic Christian
North Belt Church of Nazareneq.............. 281-441-4466 Woodsdale Church of the Nazarene ..... 281-442-4107
NON DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Christian Fellowship .281-354-2464 Christian Life Community Church ............713 631-4851 Community Christian Fellowship ............. 281-358-0160
PRESBYTERIAN Atascocita Presbyterian Church...................................281-852-8990 First Presbyterian Church of Kingwood ........................281-360-5555 Soldiers of the Cross – Christ .281-359-0009
OTHERS Atascocita Community Church............... 281-852-2900 Chapel in the Forest ...........281-360-5433
Crossroads Fellowship .........713-455-1661
Christian Tabernacle ..........713-453-7000
www.cfhouston.com
Companions of the Lamb .. 281-852-4743
Elijah Fire Church .................832-598-8747
Discovery Church ...............281-652-6039
Evangelical Christian Ministries................. 281-312-3262
Forestwood Bible Church ..281-358-6161
Family Christian Academy..713 455-4483 Grace Family Church .........832-476-3184 In Christ Ministries International ................ 281 446-3808
Gospel Assembly Church ...281 446-0004 Grace Church .....................281-441-1111 Grace Fellowship Bible Church...................................281-852-5298
Lord’s Glory Church ............281-446-0091
Kingwood Bible Church ......281-360-5231
Maximized Life Christian Center
Kingwood Christian Church .281-360-7910
International ........................281-457-5683
Maranatha Temple ............281-354-3558
Atascocita Lutheran Church.281 852-7333
New Covenant Church of Humble ......... 281-312-0139
North Forest Christian Fellowship .............................281-359-1490
Christ the King Lutheran Church .............
Restoration House Church .281-843-4000
The Church of Humble........281-540-7729
Congregation ......................281-348-7807 Temple Beth Torah ...............281-446-5611
LUTHERAN
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
51
in this section area hospitals finding a doctor
52
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Northeast Houston 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.
Medical services have kept pace with northeast Houston’s growing population, and residents find family doctors, specialists, emergency clinics and several large, award-winning hospitals close to home. Since many facilities are new, they offer the latest in advanced cardiac care, cancer research and healing, trauma care, sports medicine and treatment in many other areas. Neighborhood emergency centers and clinics provide prompt care, treating injuries, illnesses and giving evaluations and physicals, often with extended hours and minimal wait times.
PHYSICIAN REFERRAL
integrated
Asking friends and neighbors for recom-
advancing the health of the community.
mendations is a good way to find doctors
For the system’s 5,500 affiliated physicians
and
but
and 25,000 employees, it means exercising
sometimes you need help more quickly.
uncompromising commitment to deliver
Physician referral services are available
the best health care possible by harnessing
throughout the greater Houston area and
leading-edge technology and using the safest
work with new families to match their
methods. For patients, it means having the
specific needs and location with doctors
best tools to prevent health problems as well
and services in the area. After answering
as the best chance to regain their health
questions about the type of care you
following an illness or injury. It’s no wonder
require, your location and your avail-
Memorial Hermann is the only Houston
ability, several recommendations will be
health system to receive both the National
For more extensive medical treatment, the world-renowned Texas Medical Center is only an hour’s drive away.
provided. There is no charge for this confi-
Quality Forum’s National Quality Health
dential service.
care Award in 2009 and the 2012 John M.
Specialty care centers that handle substance abuse, smoking cessation, weight loss and eating disorders are also located nearby. In addition, wellness centers situated in hospitals or affiliated with a physician’s practice support patients in weight or stress reduction, physiotherapy, mental health and lifestyle practices for general wellbeing.
other
health
professionals,
health
system
focused
on
Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and Quality from The Joint Commission and the
AREA HOSPITALS
National Quality Forum, the nation’s guard ians of health and safety.
Memorial Hermann 713-222-2273; www.memorialhermann.org
One of the largest not-for-profit health systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann
Advancing Health in Houston - Advancing
is an integrated system with an excep-
Health in Houston - Memorial Hermann
tional medical staff and more than 25,000
has created Houston’s largest, full-service,
employees, serving Southeast Texas and
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
53
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
million annually in uncompensated care and community benefit programs, including an award-winning network of public schoolbased health centers.
Photo courtesy of Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital
the Greater Houston community with more
offering advanced treatment options for
than 275 care delivery sites. The system
joint pain; Women’s Memorial Hermann;
owns and operates 15 hospitals and has joint
Memorial Hermann Life Flight® – the
ventures with four other hospital facilities.
largest and busiest air ambulance service
The Memorial Hermann network includes
in the United States; the Prevention and
the country’s busiest Level I trauma center,
Recovery Center for chemical dependency
an academic medical center affiliated with
treatment; and a comprehensive array of
McGovern Medical School at UTHealth and
home health services, rehabilitation centers,
numerous specialty programs and services.
outpatient imaging and laboratory services.
The system also operates three Heart &
The system’s ambulatory care network also
Vascular Institute locations; the Memorial
includes Memorial Hermann Urgent Care
Hermann Mischer Neuroscience Institute at
and Memorial Hermann Convenient Care
the Texas Medical Center; the IRONMAN
Centers. Using its resources to advance
Sports Medicine Institute at four locations;
the health of the community, Memorial
eight Memorial Hermann Joint Centers
Hermann contributes in excess of $451
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
54
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital is the premier healthcare provider for the Lake Houston area and surrounding communities. The primary hospital for passengers at Bush Intercontinental Airport, Memorial Hermann Northeast provides a full array of high-quality services, patient-centered care and leading-edge technology. The hospital’s highly trained and experienced staff and affiliated doctors span a diverse range of medical specialties and disciplines to offer area residents exceptional care close to home, including interventional cardiology, wound care, spine surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, robotic surgery and women’s services. A collaboration with UT Physicians brings additional specialized expertise to the campus in cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, orthopedics and oncology. The hospital offers Houston’s longest-accredited Cancer Center outside the Texas Medical Center. The Imaging Center features top-of-the-line imaging technologies including tomosynthesis (3D mammography). In order to better meet the needs of lower-acuity patients, Memorial Hermann Northeast opened a $2.93 million Clinical Decision Unit where patients can receive dedicated monitoring following a procedure or Emergency Center visit. The hospital recently broke ground on a new 123,000-square foot patient tower with 90 updated patient rooms and dining services that will provide an enhanced experience for patients, visitors, and staff. The hospital is a strong supporter of the community and serves as the official healthcare provider for three area school district athletic programs. Affiliated with Memorial Hermann Northeast, the Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Center - Summer Creek, located at Beltway 8 and W. Lake Houston Parkway, provides highly coordinated access to adult and pediatric primary care, specialty services, outpatient imaging and lab services, sports medicine and rehabilitation, women’s services and 24-hour emergency care - all under one roof. Same-day
EXPANDING
EXPECTATIONS IN HEALTH CARE. AND IN LAKE HOUSTON. Memorial Hermann Northeast is breaking ground on our latest commitment to innovation and to the community: an enhanced facility providing the same great quality. As the Lake Houston area continues to grow, so does our commitment to delivering the best possible care for you and your family. This is why Memorial Hermann Northeast has broken ground on a new 123,000-square-foot patient tower (coming 2018) with 90 updated patient rooms and enhanced dining services. Additional parking and a new 100,000-square-foot professional office building (coming 2018) will provide our patients with easier access to convenient care. At Memorial Hermann Northeast, we are enhancing our facility to advance the health in our community.
memorialhermann.org
18951 Memorial N., Humble TX 77338
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
appointment availability and extended evening and weekend hours make it even more convenient for area residents to get the high-quality care they need close to home. A second Lake Houston area Convenient Care Center will open in Kingwood in 2018. Kingwood Medical Center www.kingwoodmedical.com
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.
56
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
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.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
Kingwood Medical Center, an HCA affiliated hospital, has provided the community with high quality, cost-effective healthcare for more 25 years. Conveniently located at the intersection of Highway 59 and Kingwood Drive, Kingwood Medical Center (KMC) is the premier healthcare provider for the Northeast Houston area, including North Harris, East Montgomery and Liberty counties. At KMC, they believe in “Patients First” and their commitment to providing patients with quality healthcare close to home has never been stronger. Kingwood Medical Center is a full-service 373-bed acute care hospital, with more than 450 physicians, 1,500-plus healthcare professionals, and is home to award-winning programs that improve the care and quality of life for patients and families. The Brain & Spine Center is accredited by DNV as a Comprehensive Stroke Center and is the recipient of the American Stroke Association’s Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award. KMC is a leader in northeast Houston treating patients suffering from stroke, aneurysm and spinal injuries. Stroke is a major cause of death and disability, and patient outcomes depend on how quickly blood flow is restored to the brain. Treatment options for stroke include thrombolytic medications that aim to dissolve the clot, and interventional endovascular procedures (similar to a cardiac catheterization) to remove it. Successful stroke care requires early recognition, transporting the patient to a designated comprehensive stroke center, and early activation of a stroke team at the hospital. Time loss is brain loss. The Cardiovascular Center and interventional cardiology program was the first in northeast Houston to offer an open-heart
surgery and electrophysiology program. The comprehensive program is an Accredited Chest Pain Center and is comprised of vascular and cardiovascular surgery, pulmonary diagnostics and stress testing. The Women & Children’s Center offers comprehensive services from prenatal care through labor and delivery to postpartum care. Along with a Well-Baby Nursery, KMC has Level II and Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Units on-site for the tiniest patients. For moms requiring a higher level of care, they have a high-risk antepartum unit, designed for moms with “special” needs, both short and long term. Maternal fetal medicine specialists are available for high-risk moms to ensure the highest quality of care. The Obstetrical Emergency Department, located at the Women & Children’s Center at KMC houses an OB/GYN in-hospital 24/7. This physician evaluates women with obstetric and gynecologic issues, consults with the patient’s primary physician or OB/ GYN, and is ready for any OB emergency that might arise. The Pediatric Emergency Department at Kingwood Medical Center is the only pediatric emergency center in northeast Houston. Board certified physicians; along with a specialized nursing staff, and a child friendly center are waiting for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. One in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Early detection is often the best defense against this disease. That is why The Breast Center at Kingwood Medical Center recently expanded and renovated. This comprehensive breast center provides patients with advanced technology and expertise in breast imaging; including full field digital breast imaging, 3-D or tomosynthesis, bone density and ultrasound. When needed ultrasound and stereotactic breast biopsies and genetic testing and counseling are available at the breast center. In addition to the OB and Pediatric Emergency Departments, Kingwood Medical Center offers a full-service Emergency Department. With a medical emergency,
minutes can make a difference – especially for victims of heart attack or stroke. Getting to the nearest emergency room quickly is vital. That is why KMC’s ERs are proud to provide high-quality emergency care close to home, right in your neighborhood. This facility provides the closest full-service care in northeast Houston. Last year, they provided care to 70,000 children and adult patients and is open 24/7, 365 days a year to provide immediate care. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1. Do NOT try to drive yourself to the hospital. Kingwood Medical Center 24-Hour Emergency Department at Fall Creek offers full-service emergency care for everything from chest pains to broken bones, back injury to minor burns and more. When there’s an emergency, every second counts, which is why KMC expanded its ER care into the communities they serve. This center brings state-of-the art ER services right in to neighborhood. The Inpatient Rehabilitation Center at Kingwood Medical Center is a 27-bed unit, which provides a full range of therapies for patients who have suffered a stroke, injury, or who are recuperating from surgery. Since the Rehabilitation Program is located within the hospital, patients have 24/7 access to all hospital services, including nursing and physician care, telemetry, respiratory support, imaging, laboratory, dialysis, pharmacy, and nutrition. These professionals work in collaboration with each other to provide high quality, individualized care in a structured, supportive environment. Kingwood Medical Center has an Accredited Sleep Disorder Center of Excellence, an Accredited Diabetes Center and offers a myriad of services to patients providing quality care, close to home. For more information, visit KingwoodMedical.com. UT Physicians 713- 486-DARE (3273) www.UTPhyscians.com UT Physicians is proud to announce the opening of the new Dare to CARE program at the Bayshore Multispecialty Clinic,
located at: 11476 Space Center Blvd., Suite 100, Houston, TX 77059. Dare to CARE is a national vascular screening and disease management program designed to identify people at risk for vascular disease. Through the program, UT Physicians will offer ongoing, FREE vascular disease screenings for local residents. FREE screening appointments are available if you are: • Over 40 with diabetes • Over 50 with health risk factors including: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, family history of vascular disease, or are a smoker. • Over 60 To schedule your FREE appointment, call (713) 486-DARE (3273) or visit www. UTPhyscians.com for more information. During the 20-minute appointment participants will receive non-invasive tests for Carotid Artery Disease, Abdominal Aneurysm Disease and Peripheral Vascular Disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. More than half of all Americans will die from complications of atherosclerosis, the root cause of cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately heart and vascular disease does not always have symptoms, and therefore many people are not aware they have a problem until it is too late. If caught early, heart and vascular disease can be treated to prevent serious problems, such as heart attack, stroke, amputations, or even death. Results will be reviewed by one of UT Physicians Board Certified Vascular specialists and will be shared with the patient’s Primary Care Doctor for any follow up conversations and treatment plan decisions. The best and most common ways to manage your vascular wellness include common lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding smoking, dietary management, and exercising regularly. Take charge of your heart and vascular health. Call to schedule your free Dare to CARE vascular screening appointment. Early treatment and prevention are key to living a healthier and enjoyable life!
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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in this section
Photo courtesy of Uptown Park
area associations houston by the numbers major employers
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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BUSINESS &
COMMUNITY Northeast Houston is a significant part of the dynamic business environment and has seen tremendous growth in corporate relocations, business development and new residents in recent years. As the population in the area grows, demand has been created for more offices, hotels, restaurants, shops and mixed-use developments.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON IS WORKING
region will offer a strong infrastructure to
Industries. Lake Houston, the city’s main
support these growing industries, plus a
source of water, has a significant effect
creates
highly trained and skilled workforce. And
on the local economy through vendors,
opportunities. According to the Greater
residents will continue to arrive from other
service companies and tourism. It’s no
states and other countries.
wonder that the area’s housing starts are up
Houston’s Houston
diversified Partnership,
economy
Metro
Houston
added 14,800 jobs last year and that
significantly, too.
trend is expected to continue. More than
Many of them will settle in Northeast
8,000 freighters and tankers will dock at
Houston, which has seen tremendous
AREA ASSOCIATIONS
the Port of Houston in 2017. The Texas
growth in corporate relocations, business
North Houston District
Medical Center will handle another
development and job growth in recent years.
www.northhouston.org
8 million patient visits. Area refiners
The region is close to key employers such
will continue to supply one-fourth of
as Bush Intercontinental Airport, and
the nation’s gasoline, diesel and jet fuel
FMC Technologies at the Generation
needs. More than 230,000 Houstonians
Park campus, the ExxonMobil Corp.
will hold jobs in manufacturing. More
campus, the Port of Houston, as well
making it an ideal place to conduct busi-
than 5,700 Houston firms will engage in
as many companies and facilities in the
ness locally and around the globe. Over
international business. From energy to
petrochemical industry, and warehouses
4,000 companies call North Houston
health care, nanotechnology, aerospace
and distribution centers for the likes of
home, including industry leaders like Hall-
and information technology, the Houston
Amazon, GE Oil and Gas, and Koch
iburton Co., Baker Hughes, Honeywell,
The North Houston District is a dynamic community 15 miles north of downtown Houston and minutes from Bush Intercontinental Airport and the Port of Houston,
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
and Amazon. In 2015, the Houston Busi-
HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living 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
ness Journal valued the area at $2.14 billion, and counted 72,723 employees. Truly the downtown of Houston’s north side, North Houston is a thriving business center and offers a variety of retail, residential, dining and recreation options. Each of these areas has unique needs and the District serves as an advocate on behalf of the area. The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com The Grand Parkway is a 180-mile loop
SALARY
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
Phoenix
61,439
New York City
25,910
Detroit
61,826
Los Angeles
41,996
of the Grand Parkway are now tolled. Work
Austin
61,375
Chicago
50,705
completed as Houston’s third highway ring.
San Francisco
33,401
Las Vegas
54,455
The North Houston Association
Boston
40,832
Portland
45,498
www.north-houston.com
Denver
53,759
St. Louis
63,697
The North Houston Association advocates
Miami
52,467
Raleigh
65,105
advance the business environment and
Pittsburgh
59,757
Cincinnati
64,818
Dallas
61,311
Charleston
58,336
around metropolitan Houston. In 2016, the highway was completed from U.S. 59 South in Fort Bend County, all the way to U.S. 59 North in Northeast Houston. Many portions will continue until the Grand Parkway is
and supports projects and initiatives which improve the quality of life in North Harris and Montgomery counties. The non-profit organization works with its members to consider issues of mobility, education, workforce training, the environment, and quality of life, all of which have a profound and lasting effect on the economic development of
the business climate and
community of the area. For 35 years, the mission of the North Houston Association has been to build strong alliances with partners that share common goals and together they have been able to achieve milestones such as building grassroots support for the Hardy Toll Road, advocating for the Grand Parkway, establishing the Greens Bayou Corridor Coalition, developing the Aerial Land Use Map, creating a Strategic Mobility Plan and many other initiatives..
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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AREA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
Mexico, Canada, China, Japan, and United
With
Kingdom, to name a few. In addition, HICC
networking opportunities, as well as a
Crosby-Huffman Chamber of Commerce
has offices in Mexico City, Malta, Panama
multitude of services, the Chamber gears
www. crosbyhuffmancc.org
City, Dubai, Rio and Beijing.
all efforts toward developing a healthy
The
Crosby/Huffman
Chamber
of
Commerce is a volunteer-run resource that seeks to advance civic, commercial, industrial and agricultural interests and promote the general welfare and prosperity of the community. It is an organization that is working to preserve the eastern lake Houston area’s proud past, while providing for its citizen’s future. Greater East Montgomery County Chamber www.gemcchamber.com The Greater East Montgomery County Chamber works to provide local business owners with assistance with the growth of their businesses. Serving the communities of Kingwood, Porter, New Caney, Splendora, Roman Forest, Patton Village, Woodbranch and Grangerland, the chamber has many networking activities and annual events where members can connect with other businesses and potential new customers. With
the
East
Kingwood Chamber of Commerce www.kwchamber.org The Kingwood Chamber of Commerce works to encourage healthy commercial activity in the Kingwood area, seeking to be the front door to the beautiful community, while encouraging residents to “shop at home before they roam.” The Chamber serves to enhance business success and ensure the economic future of the area. It provides a strong connection to the local customer base, promotes local business and gives a voice to area businesses in political activities and conversations. Through its Information Center, the Chamber publicizes events and organizes special projects. It offers members many advantages and opportunities to get involved and meet people.
County
Improvement District and the Small Business Development Center of the Lone Star College System, the Chamber and its members have been striving since 1990 to
programs,
events
and
economic climate for citizens and the businesses that operate in the area. With its members, the Chamber is focused on job creation, transportation, community development and quality of life and is diligently working to preserve the Lake Houston area as a great place to work, live, play and succeed. North Channel Area Chamber of Commerce www.northchannelarea.com This active Chamber of Commerce is all about making the North Channel Area a better place to live and work. Representing almost 800 businesses, the chamber publishes
a
monthly
newsletter
that
spotlights local businesses; it has many networking events, sponsorship opportunities, and ways to get involved. The Chamber
The Lake Houston Area Chamber
also provides referrals and cost-effective
of Commerce
advertising to member businesses.
www.lakehouston.org Montgomery
various
A
non-profit,
non-government
entity,
The Lake Houston Area Chamber of
the North Channel Area Chamber of
Commerce is the organized voice for the
Commerce
quality of life and business in Atascocita,
dues and funds raised by business-related
Humble, Kingwood and Summer Creek.
programs and special events.
operates
on
membership
promote the economic well-being and quality of life of its businesses and residents. Houston International Chamber of Commerce www.houstonicc.org The Houston International Chamber of Commerce helps newcomers grow their businesses. For 30 years, the organization has motivated, organized and directed efforts in the business community and helped many businesses from small entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies with thousands of employees. The membership includes several foreign consulates
MAJOR NORTHEAST AREA EMPLOYERS George Bush Intercontinental Airport Humble Independent School District Insperity Kingwood Medical Center Memorial Hermann Hospital Northeast FMC Technologies Alorica Customer and Financial Care Services Center Kroger Panalpina CDI Energy Products Lawler Foods Dangerous Goods Management Union Tank Car Co.
Weatherford Empire Steel Expeditors International Aspen Manufacturing Jetco Delivery Texas Steel Conversion Forged Components Tenaris Coiled Tubes Faith Manufacturing Orion Engineered Carbons Chevron Phillips Humble Surgical Hospital
and people from many countries, such as
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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in this section parks & attractions arts and culture sports and golf calendar of events
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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LEISURE & RECREATION
With natural beauty, temperate climate, diverse cultures and lots of fun folks, Houston offers plenty of amusing entertainment.
In
Northeast
Houston,
you’re
only
minutes away from a world-class arts and cultural scene. Houston’s live theatre, music, and opera are highly regarded; and the fine arts, both classic and contemporary, are on display for all to enjoy at galleries and museums in the Museum District. There are sporting events all year, and the city’s parks welcome picnickers, hikers, bicyclists, boaters and pets. But there are creative enjoyments to be found in Northeast Houston, too. Houston also hosts many annual events including the world’s largest rodeo and art car parade. The city’s diverse personality shines through with buoyant annual events such as the Chinese New Year, Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth and GLBT Pride Celebration. It’s often said that Houston doesn’t cherish its history, but that’s not the case with traditions like the 80-year-old Azalea Trail and numerous historic home tours.
One of the best websites for finding out about special events in Houston is www.visithouston. com, the official site of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau. The website includes a visitor’s guide, interactive maps, coupons and discounts, and itinerary ideas. One of its most popular features is the Houston CityPass, which allows holders to skip lines and get in to 5 of Houston’s must-see attractions at a discount. These include Space Center Houston, the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science and others.
THE NORTHEAST CULTURAL ARTS COUNCIL The Northeast Cultural Arts Council (NECAC) is a community based, non-profit organization that works to provide children with exposure to the arts and humanities in a safe, creative learning environment. The people at NECAC believe that when people are given the opportunity to develop creative interests
at a young age, they will be more likely to finish school and maybe even develop their own talents and career potential. NECAC’s major project, the Summer Arts Enrichment Program, seeks to create cultural awareness and appreciation for the classical arts, nurture participants’ artistic talents, expose students to a variety of exhibitions, events and museums, provide a diversified choice for career considerations and enhance the self-esteem and confidence of the young participants. See how NECAC is transforming lives through the arts at www.summerarts-houston.org.
THE ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT The arts reach deep into the fabric of life in Northeast Houston. From dramatic workshops and partnerships between schools and arts organizations, to support for at-risk youths by giving incentives to attend concerts, the arts touch lives in many ways.
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PARKS &
ATTRACTIONS
The land of Houston’s northeast is slightly rolling and covered by an extensive forest made up primarily of pine. Settled on the watershed of the San Jacinto River and beside the vast Lake Houston, the people of Houston’s Northeast have a wide array of green spaces to enjoy. Within the many parks dotted around the area are opportunities for canoeing, fishing, cycling, playing sports or just relaxing and appreciating nature.
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Texas Parks and Wildlife oversees the Texas Pineywoods and provides information and a list of parks and amenities on their website, at www.tpwd.texas.gov/landwater/land/ habitats/pineywood.
and invertebrates. Guests young and old can learn about deer, snakes, turtles, even dissect an owl pellet. Or they can go geo-caching, scavenger hunting, fishing, orienteering and more.
Alexander Deussen Park
The following is a sampling of the many parks and recreation areas in the area. For more information like hours, specific amenities, maps and reservations, contact the park directly.
Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens
jogging trails, picnic areas, pavilions, play-
Along the banks of Cypress Creek and divided by Aldine Westfield, nationally recognized Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens has beautiful, well-maintained gardens that feature bamboo, color displays, daylilies, endangered species, ferns, gingers, herbs, tropical and much more. There are also two playgrounds, a picnic area, a hickory bog and boardwalk, a cypress swamp and maple collection and several miles of walking trails.
a water gazebo.
City of Houston Parks www.houstontx.gov/parks
Harris County Parks www.harriscountytx.gov/parks
LARGER NORTHEAST HOUSTON PARKS Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center The Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center helps visitors relax, have fun and get a glimpse of the area’s history all at the same time. The park features a variety of plant and wildlife species, white sand beaches
Many on-going programs connect people to plants, like the Chrysanthemum Society, Stroller Strolls, and Children’s Story Time in the Garden. There are many educational programs and tours offered at the center and the team of experienced botanists, horticulturist and gardeners offer a wealth of knowledge and information; they are happy to welcome you and assist you in any way they can.
along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs
Situated on the south shore of Lake Houston,
Alexander
Deussen
Park
(named for the geologist who donated the 309 acres) has boat ramps, fishing piers, grounds, a senior center, a duck pond and
Dennis Johnson Park Dennis Johnson Park is part of the Spring Creek Greenway and connects to Pundt Park, the Jesse H. Jones Park and Stahl Preserve. In this lovely, leafy gem, visitors can access Spring Creek. There are also picnic tables, a pavilion, a pergola, a small pond, walking trails and a butterfly and hummingbird garden. Big Stone Lodge is located within the park and is a community center that is available for private functions on some Friday and Saturday evenings.
Lindsay/Lyons Park and Sports Complex This park is all about sports and it features 10 baseball, four softball, two football and two soccer fields – all lighted. In
with ancient cypress trees and a pristine
Stahl Preserve
hardwood and pine forest. There are more
addition, there are 18 unlighted soccer
The large, pristine fishing lake of Stahl Preserve sits tranquilly among magnificent magnolia, ancient cypress trees and many other wildlife and plant species. Along the lake’s edges are paved hike and bike, natural surface and equestrian trails. The 5.5 mile section of paved trail that connects Pundt Park to Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is part of the Spring Creek Greenway Trail.
fields, a barbecue pavilion, three 30-seat
than eight miles of pedestrian trails and many more primitive trails. The nature center has permanent and rotating displays of local flora and fauna. Redbud Hill Homestead is a re-creation of an 1820s-30s Texas colonization era homestead and it sits beside a recreated Akokisa-Ishak Indian Village. There are also playgrounds, picnic facilities, and a wide variety of innovative,
SMALLER NORTHEAST HOUSTON PARKS
In Lake Houston Wilderness Park’s almost 5,000 acres of wooded parkland, visitors
Carter Park
can hike, bike, kayak, horseback ride and
Located near Spring, Carter Park is a lovely spot to get away from the urban clamor. Visitors can practice archery, ride a bicycle, walk a lovely nature trail, share a picnic at one of the many tables or in the pavilion, launch a canoe or fish in Spring Creek.
even stay overnight in cabins or walk-in campsites. The heavily forested park also houses the Pine Grove Dining Hall and a nature center with displays of forest and wetland
habitats,
amphibians,
reptiles
playgrounds. For those not playing or watching the game, there is a paved walking trail and a sensory garden for sight-impaired children.
Turkey Creek Park Turkey Creek Park is an equestrian
educational and entertaining programs.
Lake Houston Wilderness Park
picnic pavilions, picnic tables and two
throughway in Cypress Creek Greenway. It connects riders to more than 80 miles of equestrian trails surrounding George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Note: the trails at IAH are open only to riders certified through the Houston Airport System’s Airport Ranger program. However, with Turkey Creek Park and the Cypress Creek Greenway, full-day excursions are readily available to horses and their riders.
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65
Kemah Boardwalk
Photos courtesy of Moody Gardens
N OR T HE A ST HOUSTON & SU R R O U ND I NG A R EA A T T R A C T I ON S Armand Bayou Nature Center
adventure-filled tram ride takes you over 86
www.abnc.org | 281-474-2551
acres of natural habitat.
Armand Bayou Nature Center, the largest
Battleship Texas and San Jacinto Monument Museum www.sanjacinto-museum.org 281-479-2431
“The Fun Never Stops” at the Kemah
undeveloped bayous in Texas, Armand
Battleship Texas is anchored at the 1,200-
The interesting shops that line the boardwalk
Bayou is one of only four Texas Coastal
acre
Preserves. Some 40,000 visitors annually
Historic Site where visitors can experi-
benefit from educational tours, exhibits,
ence history first-hand. The only surviving
urban
wildlife
refuge
and
wilderness
preserve in the U.S. covers 2,500 acres
Boardwalk. A carnival midway filled with rides and amusements, great restaurants, a hotel, and marina are the main attractions.
adjacent to NASA/JSC. One of the last San
Jacinto
Battleground
State
events and classes.
combat ship to have served in both World
More than 1,000 acres of wetland habitat
first memorial museum of its kind in
and approximately 600 acres of prairie offer
the United States and is permanently
a refuge for 370 species of birds, mammals,
anchored on the Houston Ship Channel.
reptiles and amphibians including whitetailed deer, armadillos, swamp rabbits, bobcats, coyotes, venomous and non-venomous snakes, turtles, alligators and frogs. Visitors enjoy the melody of songbirds, such as warblers, flycatchers, orioles and
Kemah Boardwalk www.kemahboardwalk.com
Wars, the Battleship Texas became the
The Battleship Texas program provides many recreational and educational experiences for visitors as well as numerous programs and self-guided tours. Site of the battle that won Texas independence from Mexico. The world’s largest
painted buntings, and the cry of birds-of-
masonry structure invites visitors to learn
prey, such as osprey, owls and kites.
about events that shaped Texas history.
offer everything from souvenirs to fine art. Holiday events, festivals, exhibits, and live entertainment throughout the year draw an estimated 3 million visitors. Experience the excitement of Stingray Reef, where you can touch and feed live stingrays. Discover these deep-water dwellers up close and personal. The boardwalk is family entertainment at its best in the Clear Lake Area. Kings Harbor www.kings-harbor.com Kings Harbor is a 20 acre mixed-use development, which provides the Kingwood / Atascocita market with an upscale development with a real sense of place.
281-479-2421
Kings Harbor includes a number of uses,
due to the intermingling of three distinct
Gulf Greyhound Park
residential, planned into one cohesive
ecosystems – forest, prairie and bayou. Visi-
www.gulfgreyhound.com
development. Kings Harbor has the unique
The broad diversity of flora and fauna is
tors can escape the stress of urban life by
including retail, restaurants, office and
distinction of being the only commercial
hiking six trails, delighting in the joys of
At Gulf Greyhound Park, the world’s
development within the market located
bird watching or reliving the past at a recre-
largest and most successful greyhound racing complex (just south of Clear Lake),
directly on Lake Houston.
ated farm.
the fast-paced action runs all year, rain or
The Lake Houston Wilderness
Bayou Wildlife Park
shine, with air-conditioned comfort on all
Park Nature Center
Bayouwildlifezoo.com | 281-337-6376
four levels. This unique entertainment offers
www.houstontx.gov/parks | 281-354-0173
the thrill of greyhound racing and the exciteFeed animals and birds from Africa, India,
ment of pari-mutual wagering (for those 21
A fun educational place for young and old
Asia, Australia and South America. An
and older).
alike. It is open from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.,
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
Wednesday through Sunday. The center
works of contemporary photography. HCP
Sam Houston Race Park
opened its doors on November 9, 2007. It
also offers over 300 photography classes and
www.shrp.com
offers displays of forest and wetland habi-
workshops year-round. Sam Houston Race Park is one of Houston’s
tats, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates, and a mural depicting the life cycle of butterflies. The mural was created through a collaboration between the Artist Boat, the M.D. Anderson YMCA, and H.P.A.R.D. It was funded by a United Way Kids Way grant. The Lake Houston Wilderness Park Nature Center was made possible through the generosity of George Mitchell. The Water Wall Galleria
Houston Zoo www.houstonzoo.org The Houston Zoo had a record year for attendance in 2016, welcoming 2,550,453 million visitors and maintaining its elite position as the second-most-attended US zoo with a paid admission.
premier racing, dining and entertainment destinations, located just 15 minutes from Downtown. Sam Houston Race Park have a variety of exciting sports and entertainment in addition to live horse racing as well. The Park features two major racing seasons – Thoroughbred Season (January through March) and Quarter Horse Season (March
The zoo’s multiple seasonal and permanent attractions like holiday Zoo Lights and the Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit have helped drive attendance. Gorillas of The African Forest gives visitors the opportunity to observe gorillas in a lush forest setting adjacent to the existing chimpanzee habitat. The Houston Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is located at
through May). Space Center Houston www.spacecenter.org | 281-244-2105
6200 Hermann Park Drive. Water Wall Galleria - Photo courtesy of GHCVB
Designed by architect Philip Johnson more than 20 years ago, the Galleria-area Water Wall offers a refreshing respite for visitors seeking a mid-afternoon break. The 64-foottall fountain - built to look like a “horseshoe of running water” - sits among 186 oak trees at the base of the 64-story Williams Tower. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center www.houstonarboretum.org
Moody Gardens www.moodygardens.org | 800-582-4673 A tropical destination for families and groups. Explore the all new Rainforests of the World along within the Aquarium Pyramid®, the Discovery Museum & the action of the IMAX® 3D, 4D or Ridefilm theaters. Cruise aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, tee off at the new Moody Gardens Golf Course and relax at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention
Space Center Houston, a $70-million,
Center for an ideal getaway.
size reproduction of the space shuttle, guests
Nestled along the western edge of Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and the opportunity to experience the natural world – all in the center of town. Visitors can explore nature by walking on five miles of trails, take
Port of Houston Boat Tour www.porthouston.com/ sam-houston-boat-tour | 713-670-2416 The Port of Houston offers free, 90-minute round-trip, educational cruises along the
Photo courtesy of Space Center Houston
183,000
square-foot
entertainment
and
educational complex designed by Disney Imagineering, offers hands-on, space-related experiences to visitors. In addition to a fullcan use computer trainers to perform operations similar to the ones the astronauts used to launch a satellite or land a shuttle. NASA scientists and astronauts give briefings about current activities, visitors observe
Houston Ship Channel. Embarking from
scientists and mission specialists at work
the port’s Sam Houston Landing, visiting
and in training via live video hookups. The
sightseers can enjoy passing views of inter-
theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature
national cargo vessels, and operations at the
space flight films. Exhibits include thou-
port’s Turning Basin Terminal. Measuring
sands of space artifacts, the Skylab space
95 feet in length and 24 feet in width, the
station and the largest collection of moon
The Houston Center for Photography is an
boat carries a maximum capacity of 100
rocks on display anywhere on earth. A
organization dedicated to the art of photog-
passengers, with air-conditioned lounge
60-minute tram tour of the JSC complex is
raphy.
seating and additional standing room on the
another source of entertainment and educa-
boat’s rear deck.
tion for JSC guests.
classes and visit the Discovery Room and the Nature Shop at the Nature Shop. Houston Center for Photography www.hcponline.org
Their exhibition gallery is free to
the public, and features some of the finest
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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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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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T HE AT E R DIS TR IC T Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org One of America’s leading not-for-profit theatres calls the Houston Theater District Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing in productions of the classics, modern plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces more performances than all other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District. 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 won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards.
Houston Symphony 615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org
including the availability of thrilling live
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.
Society for FINE the Performing Arts
Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com
performing arts spectrum, and has been doing
performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres.
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 so for over 50 years. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS)
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.
800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002
Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com
initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into
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,
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 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
70
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
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
Holocaust
Museum
– SUMMER 2018
Houston
is
gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.
SPORTS
& GOLF
Northeast Houston 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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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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HOUSTON PROUD Major events in Houston require tens of thousands of volunteers who take on a variety of jobs and responsibilities to make the event Houston Proud. More t h a n 3 3 , 0 0 0 i n d iv i d u a l s s e r v i n g o n over 100 committees form the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo volunteer cor ps, giving more than 2.1 million t o t a l h o u r s. T h e b i g ge s t vo l u n t e e r program in Super Bowl histor y took place in Houston in 2017, where 10,000 volunteers assisted over a million visitors to the city for Super Bowl LI. Photos courtesy of the Houston Texans
PROFESSIONAL SPORT TEAMS 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 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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
The Houston Dynamo
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.
The Houston Rockets www.nba.com/rockets The Houston Rockets play basketball at Toyota Center a short walk from Minute Maid Park. Toyota Center is also a popular venue for concerts. The Rockets have won two NBA championships and four Western Conference titles.
Golf The average high in Houston in January (the coldest month) is 62.9°F and the average low is 43.2°F; there are over 200 days of sunshine. Northeast Houston and surrounding area has its share of
Photos courtesy of Houston Rockets-Noah Graham NBAE/Getty Images
www.houstondynamo.com
PUBLIC Brock Park Golf Course
281-458-1350
highmeadowranchgolf.com
Indian Shores Golf Course
281-324-2592
www.indianshoresgolf.com
Kingwood Cove Golf Club
281-358-1155
kingwoodcove.com / Kingwood
Links at West Fork
936-760-1776
westforkgolf.com / Conroe
Newport Golf Club
281-328-3576
newport-tx.com / Crosby
Oakhurst Golf Club
281-354-4653
oakhurstgolfclub.com / Porter
Red Wolf Run Golf Club
281-324-1841
www.redwolfgolf.com
River Terrace Golf Club
281-452-2183
Tour 18
281-540-1818
tour18golf.com / Humble
Village Golf Club
936-228-0161
thevillagegc.com / Conroe
Wedgewood Golf Club
936-441-4653
wedgewoodgolfclub.com / Conroe
The Clubs of Kingwood Kingwood Country Club
281-358-2171
theclubsofkingwood
The Clubs of Kingwood Deerwood Club
281-360-1060
theclubsofkingwood.com
Golf Club of Houston
281-454-6590
golfclubofhouston.com
River Plantation Country Club
936-321-5833
www.riverplantationcc.com
Walden on Lake Houston
832-445-2105
waldencc.com
PRIVATE
74
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
both public and private courses that offer
have programs, lessons, leagues and teams
varying terrain and challenges to suit every
across all sports, levels and ages.
golfer’s taste.
Walden on Lake Houston
The Clubs of Kingwood Country Club
www.waldencc.com
www.theclubsofkingwood.com
Walden on Lake Houston Country Club, founded in 1984, features a Robert Von
The Clubs of Kingwood offer something
Hagge/Bruce Devlin designed golf course.
for everyone! Join them and enjoy the many
The layout features 5 sets of playing tees
benefits and privileges of club life, as well
and Champion Tifdrawrf Bermuda Greens.
as the lifelong friendships and fond memo-
Over the last 5 years the Club has received a
ries you’ll create there. They have created a
facelift as renovations to the Bunkers, Course
unique resort lifestyle that centers around
Restrooms and Par 3 Tee Boxes have been
quality family time, relaxation, enjoyment
completed.
and business networking. Walden on Lake Houston C.C. has golf, With something for everyone, their Club
tennis, racquetball, fitness facilities and
offers an array of first-class amenities and
swimming. Activities are available year
fun, including championship golf and pris-
round for the whole family!
facility, and Clubhouse provide an ideal backdrop for golfers to congregate, the Club is really all about the Members.
rallying on the tennis courts, getting fit in
Members
the fitness center, swimming in the gorgeous
including a full driving range, vast putting
pools and relaxing with indulgent spa treat-
green, and a chipping green with sand
It’s about fellowship, community, family, fun, good times, and of course the love of the game. Golf and Social member events fill the calendar throughout the year and provide an array of formats for Members to enjoy
ments. In addition to all of this, they also
bunker.
themselves.
tine practice facilities. Members there enjoy also
enjoy
practice
facilities
While the golf courses, practice
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
75
CALENDAR of EVENTS
Photos courtesy of Visit Houston Texas
HOUSTON AREA EVENTS YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
JANUARY Chevron Houston Marathon Established in 1972, the Houston Marathon Committee, Inc. (HMC), a Running USA Founding Member, annually organizes the nation’s premier winter marathon, half-marathon and 5K. Over 250,000 participants, volunteers and spectators make this marathon largest single-day sporting event in the city. www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com Mlk Grande Parade Held in Midtown, this parade is devoted to promoting racial harmony through
landscape features needed to make a
programs and the funding of related
home and garden.
capital additions and improvements.
www.texashomeandgarden.com
www.rodeohouston.com
Annual Houston Brazilian Carnaval Celebrate Carnaval in true Brazilian style, straight from the streets of Rio, with live drummers, 2 DJ’s, and dancers covered in beads and feathers. This colorful Houston-based bash celebrates Carnaval in Houston, including the rhythms of Samba School Drums. www.houstonbraziliancarnaval.com
MARCH
education and building awareness. The
World’s Champion Bar-B-Que Cookoff
MLK Grande Parade attracts more than
You won’t want to miss the biggest
300,000 spectators with 15 professionally
pre-party to the world’s largest live-
designed floats, 30 marching bands, and
stock show and rodeo. More than 250
over 150 performing groups.
teams led by barbecue aficionados
www.mlkgrandeparade.org
will compete in a traditional Texas
Mardi Gras Galveston Island Don’t miss the revelry at Mardi Gras! Galveston! The island comes alive with extravagant parades, more than 50 galas and festive events, bead throwing, exhibits, live entertainment in local clubs, and the best Gulf Coast cuisine in the world. One of the most popular annual events to take place in Texas, the event is rich with laughter, celebration and
cook-off. While most team tents are invitation-only, visitors can enjoy the public venues including the Miller Lite Garden, Rockin’ Bar-B-Que Saloon and the Chuck Wagon, where you receive a complimentary chopped
The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival It is among the top art festivals in the country, featuring over 200 international, national and regional fine artists displaying their original works in a wide variety of mediums at The Woodlands Waterway and in Town Green Park. The festival includes five entertainment stages, hands-on art activities and plenty of great food and beverages. www.woodlandsartsfestival.com Magnolia Historical Depot Day Live Entertainment and children’s activities, barbecue and other great food, a car show and Live and Silent Auctions. Depot Day serves as the Magnolia Historical Society’s annual fundraiser. Help support the Historic Depot building, the Pavilion, Dr. Ware’s Office and the Replica of the first Magnolia Post Office. www.magnoliatxhistoricalsociety.com
beef sandwich plate. Come enjoy
Bridgeland Nature Fest
three days of cooking, competition,
Bridgeland’s annual Nature Fest
eating and dancing!
showcases this award-winning master-
www.rodeohouston.com
planned community’s commitment to the
people watching. There is something for
Houston Livestock Show And Rodeo™
everyone including a beachfront carnival,
The Houston Livestock Show and
shopping, and nightlife featuring every-
Rodeo™ was organized for charitable,
thing from Cajun and salsa to jazz and
educational and scientific purposes to
rock and roll.
encourage and promote the breeding,
www.mardigrasgalveston.com
raising and marketing of better livestock
FEBRUARY
APRIL
environment and ecosystem. Highlights include food trucks, roaming entertainers,
and farm products at public fairs and to promote and maintain research and
Texas Home & Garden Show
educational functions within the livestock
Houston’s Premier “One Stop Shopping
industry. It is the general policy of the
Opportunity” for all your home & garden
Show to utilize, in the fiscal year subse-
needs. From Windows and Doors to
quent to which it is earned, the excess of
Ceilings and Floors over 700 experts,
its revenue over expenses for the further-
products, services and ideas all under
ance of its exempt purpose, including the
one roof. This event is one of Texas
granting and/or funding of scholarships,
homeowners best resource for advice,
educational endowments, agricultural
money saving tips, remodeling ideas and
research projects and other similar
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
77
L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
educational animal demos, unique crafts
trucks on the site. Free parking, this is a
Hunters Extravaganza
from artists and nature vendors, and a
21+event only.
Taking place at NRG Park, this is the
kid’s zone with rides and activities.
www.ShowcaseKingwood.com
place where hunters from across Texas
www.bridgeland.com
MAY
and beyond gather each year to get
JULY Freedom Over Texas
ready for hunting season. Whether its deer hunting equipment, hunting accessories, hunting clothing, rifles,
Beyond The Pints –
Located in the newly renovated Eleanor
Craft Beer And Music Festival
Tinsley Park on Buffalo Bayou, Freedom
Sample more than 40 local and national
Over Texas has become Houston’s
gear-hunters know they’ll find it at the
craft breweries while listening to live
signature annual Independence Day cele-
Hunters Extravaganza. Plus, hunters
music. East from locally owned and
bration and attracts nationally recognized
enter great contests, see exciting attrac-
operated food trucks. Family friendly,
recording artists as well as regional and
tions, meet their favorite hunting and
with a Kids Zone, retail vendors and
local talent.
sports celebrities and more!
entertainment for all.
www.freedomeovertexas.org
www.ttha.com
knives, archery or any other hunting
www.beyondthepints.com Red, Hot And Blue Festival
JUNE Texas Music Festival Each year, the Texas Music Festival provides close to 100 young professional musicians with a challenging musical environment in which to develop skills in orchestral, chamber music, and solo performance. Lucky participants range in age from junior high to adult and specialize in a variety of areas. Each institute is led by Moores and Shepherd Schools of Music faculty, expert performers and teachers from Houston and throughout the world. www.uh.edu Summer Showdown Margarita Festival Soak up the summer fun at the Summer Showdown Margarita Fest hosted by Showcase Kingwood. Jam out to live music from a variety of “island vibe” bands, and nosh at one of the food
Enjoy vendor booths, great food, children’s activities and entertainment on multiple stages. This event in The Woodlands culminates with one of the largest fireworks displays in the greater Houston area. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov
Kidfish KidFish is a non-profit outreach program designed to educate and provide a hands-on fishing experience and memories for children and families. Limited poles and bait are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own
Kingwood July 4Th Festival
gear. Prizes and trophies will be awarded
And Fireworks
following the final measure of the fish.
Celebrate in Kingwood with live music,
www.cityofconroe.org
craft and food booths. Plenty of activities for children – come out and enjoy the
Taste Of The World Houston
fireworks!
Food And Wine Festival
www.kingwood.com
The Houston World Food & Wine
www.towncenterevents.com
Festival celebrates food, drink, music and dance from around the world. The
Houston World Series Of Dog Shows
festival has a globe-trotting theme that
The Annual Houston World Series of
invites attendees to try out a new variety
Dog Shows by the American Kennel
of food and arts and enjoy an interna-
Club is one of the finest and largest indoor dog shows in the world that attracts more than 40,000 spectators, participants and vendors. houstondogshows.com
AUGUST
78
SEPTEMBER
tional experience. It provides a feast for the senses and reflects the multicultural diversity of Houston. www.latinolearningcenter.org Texas Renaissance Festival Plantersville - Based on travel-worthiness,
Houston International Jazz Festival
chance to broaden horizons and the
The Houston International Jazz Festival
ability to introduce people to try new
showcases Jazz, Rhythm and Blues,
things and connect with others, the Texas
Soul and Latin Fusion. More than a
Renaissance Festival has been voted the
dozen artists from around the world
best cultural festival in the country by
will be featured.
USA Today and 10Best. Enjoy magi-
www.jazzeducation.org
cians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours,
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SUMMER 2018
comedians, food, arts and crafts that all
community. Highlights include a 5k fun
by celebrating all things Houston,
celebrate life in the 16th Century.
run, live music, a marketplace, local
including a salute to the world-ac-
www.texrenfest.com
artists, tasty food and much more.
claimed Texas Medical Center. The
www.creekfesthouston.com
Fun begins at 9am when the downtown
The Texas Taco Tequila & Margarita Festival Held in Conroe, Texas – come out and enjoy over thirty different taco vendors. Enjoy live music reggaton, mariachi, giochamba and more. There is a kid-zone with family friendly activities as well as VIP area. Plenty of artisan and boutique vendors, make a day of it and come out and bring your family and friends! www.inspiredprod.com
OCTOBER
streets come alive with zesty marching
NOVEMBER Home For The Holidays The local shops and businesses come alive with the Spirit of the Season, offering a variety of local, unique holiday gift ideas and treasures. Holiday-makers stroll the winding paths, enjoy the thousands of twinkling lights, hot chocolate and other holiday lights and a visit with Santa. www.oldtownspring.com Houston Galleria -
bands, imaginative floats and colorful balloons. Bring the family. Annual Home For The Holidays In Old Town Spring Old Town Spring’s shops and restaurants come alive with spectacular displays of holiday lights, plus strolling performers, festive exhibits and family friendly activities. www.oldtownspring.com Annual Children’s Festival
Uptown Holiday Lighting
Fun takes center stage at The Cynthia
Petfest – Old Town Spring
The annual holiday tradition flips the
Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s 20th Annual
PetFest is a weekend event dedicated to
switch on a half-million twinkling lights
Children’s Festival. Entertainment
finding homes for animals in shelters and
along with music, holiday characters, and
spans from local community perfor-
rescue groups. It’s a fun-filled festival of
a special appearance by Santa. Fireworks
mances to awarding-winning children’s
entertainment and education that raises
grand finale.
performers, meaning you are sure to
money, volunteers and foster homes.
www.uptownhouston.com
enjoy the show! www.woodlandscenter.org
Bring your pet! www.petfestoldtownspring.com
Nutcracker Market The Houston Ballet’s major fundraiser,
DECEMBER
Bridgeland Annual Howloween Fest
the Nutcracker Market is a shopping
Watch the Canine Frisbee Disc Club,
wonderland. This year’s market will
Splash Dogs and the popular doggie
feature more than 325 national and inter-
fashion show. Enjoy the many crowd-
national merchants carefully selected for
and-canine approved activities. You and
their unique offerings. Look for gourmet
your pet will have a dog-gone good time.
food, home décor, garden accessories,
www.bridgeland.com
clothing, novelties and the perfect gift.
7:00 am and include a DJ, Christmas
www.houstonballet.org
music, bouncy houses, hot chocolate,
Jingle Bell Run Join Towne Lake for a family-friendly and festive Jingle Bell Run! The race will begin at 8:00 am and start at The New Boardwalk. Pre-race festivities begin at
face painting, and pictures with Santa.
Creekfest CreekFest is a one-day festival held in
H-E-B Holiday Parade
All racers will receive jingle bells for their
northwest Houston to celebrate the
The Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day
shoes and a red long-sleeved t-shirt.
arts and outdoors in the Cypress Creek
Parade will welcome the holiday season
www.townelaketexas.com
JUNE: CARNIVAL HOUSTON www.carnivalhouston.com
Carnival Weekend in Houston: This event celebrates the cultural diversity of the Caribbean and Central and South America with a masquerade ball, street parade and festival, and much more. Street Parade: Be there early, bring your chair, enjoy the street parade, music, masqueraders, floats, food, Carnival Rides for the kids. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
79
ad index APARTMENTS Villas Of Kingwood........................................................................................................................................................................ 29
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS Balmoral, Land Tejas Community................................................................................................................................................. 7 The Groves..................................................................................................................................................................... Back Cover Johnson Development................................................................................................................................................................. 11 Signorelli/Valley Ranch................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Woodridge Forest.......................................................................................................................................................................... 21
EDUCATION Including Kids................................................................................................................................................................................ 35 Lone Star College......................................................................................................................................................................... 41 New Horizons Computer of Learning Centers........................................................................................................................... 41 Primrose Schools............................................................................................................................................................................ 39 The Covenant Preparatory School............................................................................................................................................. 37
HEALTH CARE Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital..................................................................................................................................... 5 Kingwood Medical Center............................................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital...................................................................................................................................... 55
HOTELS Best Western Plus Atascocita....................................................................................................................................................... 15 LaQuinta Inn & Suites Channelview........................................................................................................................................... 23
REAL ESTATE BROKERAGES Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene................................................................................. Inside Back Cover RE/MAX Associates Northeast....................................................................................................................................................... 1
RECREATION Houston Rockets........................................................................................................................................................................... 73 Schlitterbahn................................................................................................................................................................................. 71 The Clubs of Kingwood -Kingwood Country Club.................................................................................................................... 75
UTILTIES & SERVICES TXU Energy....................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
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80
– SUMMER 2018 To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
We’re Located Where You Want to Live.
Put our expertise and market knowledge to work on your next real estate transaction. Serving the greater Lake Houston and Kingwood areas. 832.445.0408 www.GaryGreene.com
18477 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Suite 50 | Humble, Texas 77346 Š2018 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Better Homes and Gardens, the Better Homes and Garden Real Estate logo are registered service marks owned by Meredith Corporation and licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC.
HOMES FROM THE $240 S - $600 S
Welcome to the At The Groves, we reside in a community outside the ordinary. We believe in comfortable living amongst the trees, fresh air and flowing creeks. We believe in family barbeques at the new Hearth Amenity Center with its resort-style pool and outdoor fireplace. We believe in fishing with your children at our Fish Camp right around the corner. And we believe that once you come and see it, you won’t want to live in any other neighborhood.
Come discover the power of the outside.
Groves Elementary School
NOW SHAPING YOUNG MINDS
West Lake Middle School
OPENING THIS FALL
The Hearth Amenity Center
OPEN FOR RELAXATION Outdoor Fireplace Play & Lounge Areas
Event Lawn
Resort-Style Pool & Pavilion
TH E GROV ES TX.COM
Woodland Hills Drive
CREATING FASTER COMMUTES Lifestyle Center & Fish Camp
NOW OPEN