Northwest Houston Newcomer Guide - 2017 Vol. 1

THIS ISSUE: A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO SHOPPING + DINING | FAMILY FRIENDLY FUN!

Housing and

s d o o h r o b h g i Ne WHERE TO LIVE

Communities built CALDWELL around you.

Other Caldwell Communities:

Though unique in their own way, all of our communities have one thing in common; an extraordinary sense of true togetherness. Find the life you’ve always wanted in a Caldwell Community.

Experience all we have to offer at CaldwellCommunities.com

contents | features 36 39 53 70

THIS ISSUE: A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO SHOPPING + DINING | FAMILY FRIENDLY FUN!

International Relocation Information Housing and

Choosing The Right School District: Public vs Private Education Harris County Map & Cost Of Living

Neighborhoods WHERE TO LIVE

ON THE COVER Perched on the shores of Towne Lake in Cypress, The Boardwalk is Northwest Houston’s premier mixed-use destination for shopping, dining, fitness, entertainment, and more. www.BoardwalkTL.com

Houston’s Active Lifestyle

PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: GHCVB Houston The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau - Derrick Bryant Photography Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Towne Lake-Caldwell Communities Cypress Christian School Lone Star College UH Downtown Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Patrinely Group Eric Pohl Annette Evans Lennar Homes

36

Klein ISD Beazer Homes Busy Bee Realty Salem Lutheran School

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,

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

Your Lifestyle, Upgraded

The charming community of Magnolia Reserve combines an exceptional location with impeccably designed homes from the mid-$300s. Featuring half-acre homesites, wooded lots and no MUD tax, Magnolia Reserve oers the luxurious lifestyle you have been searching for.

Call today to learn more:

(888) 864-1370 ext. 3803 TerrataHomes.com/MagnoliaReserve

Prices and rates are subject to change without notice. Home pictured may not be available at the advertised price. Terrata Homes is part of the LGI Homes family of brands.

contents | sections WELCOME TO NORTHWEST HOUSTON • 12

16

Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956

HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 16 20 Master Planned Communities

HOME FRONT • 22 24 Choosing A Realtor

22

27 Mortgage Options

RELOCATION INFORMATION • 30 33 Public Transportation

EDUCATION IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON • 38 39 STAAR 42 Private Schools 44 Higher Education

BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 48

PRESIDENT Kevin Evans VICE PRESIDENT Robert Nusbaum

Erin Hayden Seal OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino

Cathy Turner PROJECT MANAGER Jill Roe ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

50 Major Employers List

Judy Van Cleve

50 Area Chambers of Commerce

Paul Yarbrough

53 Cost of Living

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 54 55 Major Medical Facilities 56 Finding a doctor

ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 60 63 Senior Housing Options 64 Assisted Living Communities

82

CEO Derek Wright

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

40 Public Schools

48

www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

32 Utilities

38

info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

PLACE OF WORSHIP • 66 68 Directory of Contacts

LEISURE + RECREATION • 70

GRAPHIC DESIGN Debora Licón Northwest Houston Newcomer Guide is published and distributed bi-annually

by WEB Media Group LLC. For advertising information, please call 713-952-1916.

Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication.

WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.

72 Parks & Attractions 76 Sports & Golf 78 Arts and Culture

4

300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752

82 Dining & Shopping

Phone: 512-266-2900

84 Calendar of Events

www.TexasRelocationGuides.com

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

MASTER BEDROOM

COVERED PATIO

12' x 10'

15' x 14'

PL

RE

FI E AC

AR 06.10.15 481N- NO FURNITURE

DINING ROOM

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MASTER BATH

15' x 18'

SEAT

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KITCHEN 12' x 19'

UP

12' x 10'

FOYER

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CLOSET FRZ

PRIVATE

UTILITY

REF.

COAT

PANTRY

Parent moving in? Grown kids moving back?

PWDR BEDROOM 4

BATH 2

12' x 12'

OPT. MEDIA

15' x 13'

PORCH

These days, typical living is anything but. That’s what

GAME ROOM

GARAGE 19' x 23'

15' x 19'

PRIVATE LIVING ROOM

makes NextGen so unique. Rather than just offer extra

BATH 3

12' x 11'

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UP OPEN RAILING

13' x 11'

KITCHENETTE 12' x 8'

STOOP

room, NextGen homes feature private entrances, BEDROOM 3 12' x 12'

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separate garages, and innovative floor plans designed to SECOND FLOOR

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on a whole new level. NextGen. The Home Within a Home®.

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from the $270s

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Plans and elevations/renderings are artist’s concepts and may contain options or features which are not standard on all models. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, square footage and designs vary per plan and community and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Contact a Lennar or Village Builders new home consultant for detail. Garage sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate all vehicles. Stated dimensions and/or square footages are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Any statement, verbal or written, regarding “under air” or “furnished area” or any other description or modifier for the square footage size of any home is a shorthand description of the manner in which the square footage was estimated and should not be construed to indicate certainty. Models/lifestyle photos do not represent racial or ethnic preference. Copyright 2017 Lennar Corporation. All rights reserved. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Village Builders, the Village Builders logo and Next Gen and the Next Gen logo are registered service marks of Lennar corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 05/2017

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

5

WELCOME from

THE CITY OF HOUSTON MAYOR Diversity, Entrepreneurship, Thriving Economy, World-Class Entertainment Just a few of the benefits of living in the Greater Houston area.

Greetings!

Let me be the first to welcome you to Houston! You are going to love living here. We are the most diverse City in the nation – a City with an entrepreneurial spirit and a City where you can achieve your dreams.

Houston is still the Energy Capital of the World, but our economy has diversified over the years to include technology, medicine and manufacturing and shipping.

I invite you to explore all that this great city has to offer. Whether it’s our world-class restaurants, theaters, museums, shopping, thrilling sports teams or the new Independence Plaza at the Johnson Space Center which houses the world’s first and only replica of the space shuttle/carrier, Houston has it all. It all combines together to create the ideal city in which to live, work and play.

Houston Newcomer and Relocation Guides can be an invaluable source of information as you prepare for your relocation. It showcases every aspect of living and working in the city of Houston.

We look forward to having you as a Houstonian!

Sincerely,

Sylvester Turner City of Houston Mayor

P.O. Box 1562, Houston, Texas 77251-1562 Telephone – Dial 311 www.houstontx.gov

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

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HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. © 2017 Comcast. All right reserved. TRP187372-0001

7

WELCOME from

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Northwest Houston area is full of excellent job opportunities and has plenty of room for career growth. Come do business with us!

Dear Northwest Houston Newcomer, On behalf of the three area Chambers of Commerce, and all of their members, it is an honor to welcome you to Houston’s Great Northwest. You may be assured that you will find exactly what you are looking for within the region.

8711 Highway 6 North Houston, TX 77095 (281) 373-1390 Fax (281) 373-1394 staff@cyfairchamber.com www.cyfairchamber.com

We are proud of our community, and we really do have it all. Outstanding retail centers, fine hotels and restaurants, and excellent recreational opportunities are close to home in Northwest Houston. Our highway and transportation infrastructure is ever-growing to meet the mobility needs of our residents and businesses. And of course, our trees, lakes, streams, and miles of greenbelt are there for your family to enjoy each and every day.

Business development along Highway 290 and SH 249 Technology Corridor provide unlimited opportunities for emerging, growing or relocating businesses. Additionally, commercial and residential growth is tremendous. In all parts of our Northwest Area, new homes, re-sale homes, apartments, and townhouses continue to meet the demands of families relocating to our area.

29201 Quinn Road., Suite B Tomball, TX 77375 (281) 351-7222 Fax (281) 351-7223 admin@tomballchamber.org www.tomballchamber.org

Educational options are a principle concern for our relocating families. Cypress-Fairbanks, Houston, Klein, Spring and Tomball Independent School Districts are among the very best in Texas. Additionally, there is an outstanding variety of private and parochial schools from which to choose.

We welcome you to our area and would like the opportunity to serve you personally.

Please do not hesitate to contact us or simply stop by our offices to see how we may be able to assist you in your relocation.

Sincerely,

3920 Cypress Creek Pkwy.

(FM 1960 West) Suite 120 Houston, TX 77068 (281) 440-4160 Fax (281) 440-5229 www.houstonnwchamber.com

8

Leslie Martone, President Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce

Bruce Hillegeist, President Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

Barbara Thomason, President Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce

“Cancer, I am stronger than you” Emmie Gooch | Cancer Survivor Emmie would have gone anywhere to beat cancer.

But she chose to stay close to home since MD Anderson, the nation’s number-one ranked cancer hospital, was nearby. At every stage of her cancer journey, she received the most advanced treatment available from her dedicated team of experts, whose only focus is ending cancer. With multiple locations across Houston, Emmie beat cancer on her own terms and with a strength that is truly inspiring.

Appointments are available at an MD Anderson location near you. Call 713-745-9940 or visit FindYourMDAnderson.com.

Appointments available at multiple locations around Houston.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

9

WELCOME from

GREATER NORTHWEST HOUSTON Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in the Northwest Houston region and take advantage of what the community has to offer.

Welcome to Houston!

You’ve just arrived at one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, incredible cuisine, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation destinations, and home of the World Champion Houston Astros.

As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll probably notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.

HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax: 713- 961-4869

BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax: 281-486-7530

MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760

The Houston real estate market has been one of the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle, whether you plan to buy or rent. The 37,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR) help make the American Dream come true for individuals and families every day. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization and our members appreciate that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make.

More than a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which actually showcases property listings for the entire state of Texas. Our site offers dozens of user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more.

Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more.

Fax: 936-273-0344

On behalf of HAR, it’s my great pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you take advantage of everything our incredible community offers.

FORT BEND

Sincerely,

6680 Greatwood Pkwy.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557

Kenya Burrell-VanWormer 2018 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS®

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

11

in this section welcome recreation culture shopping & entertainment

to e m o c l e W

NORTHWEST HOUSTON Thousands of newcomers relocate to Houston each year from all over the country and the world, today, it’s the fourth largest city in the U.S. As the city grows, so do its services and Northwest Houston is home to world-class hospitals, leadingedge educational centers, and wonderful places to live.

Houston is the City with No Limits: the

you’ll be enjoying that air-conditioning), the

reaches north to Tomball and south to the

quality of life is wonderful; the culture is

rest of the year is temperate and often sunny.

North Loop 610. It is bordered by I-45 to the

dynamic and the economy is stable. On the

east and Highway 290 to the west.

road to recovery from the recent economic

Increasingly, Northwest Houston is the

slump, the greater Houston area added

area of choice for new residents. With its

And there’s a home for you. From custom

41,900 jobs last year. Here, you’ll also find

excellent amenities, convenient businesses

residences

the most ethnically diverse population of

and retail centers, fine schools and leafy

resale homes, you’ll find something to

any city in the U.S., and the vibrant arts and

parkland, all within easy access to central

suit your budget and preferences. You can

dining scenes reflect that. While it can get

Houston, it’s easy to see why. The lush,

choose from the many golf course neigh-

hot and humid in the summer, (that’s when

rolling landscape of Northwest Houston

borhoods with luxury houses lining the

to

townhomes,

rental

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

and

13

WELCOME TO NORTHWEST HOUSTON

ExxonMobil Campus - Courtesy of Patrinely Group

fairways, or master-planned communities with wonderful amenities, to the outlying acreages offering pastoral living. Increasingly popular are the select neighborhoods built with the environment in mind, where harmonious ecological balance and quality of life for residents are the goals. Whatever your housing dream, it can come true here.

Your children can get an excellent education. Northwest Houston is served by five effective independent public school districts

The Boardwalk - Courtesy of Caldwell Companies

can play a world-class golf course, paddle down a bubbling bayou, listen to the trill of a cardinal, then enjoy an internationally famous dining experience. If you’re a hunter, fisherman or birder, you’ll find lots in the area to excite you. If you like to watch, you can take in your child’s baseball game or a major-league one at Minute Maid park, home the soon-to-be World Champion Houston Astros. Most of the year, Houston’s mild climate means that you can enjoy the many outside attractions almost every day.

and restaurants. And the many and varied

SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT

book. Experience the rich collection of food

Indoors, you’ll find an amazing array of

and its northwest corner have to offer.

and a variety of private schools. Many of the schools are award-winning and, on their reputations alone, draw new residents to the area.

The greater Houston area teems with

items in the many quaint shops, small retail

options and opportunity. And Northwest

centers, several large malls, or the major

Houston, with its strong schools and excel-

outlet mall in Cypress which offers merchan-

lent medical facilities, is an ideal choice for

dise from well-known designers. Market

growing families.

Street in The Woodlands is an award-win-

shopping experiences in Houston mean that if you want it, you can find it here.

But if you’re finished shopping, there’s still plenty to do. There are any number of events, festivals, wine-tastings, barbeques, concerts, celebrations and parades to keep you intrigued and entertained. And the greater Houston area, the most diverse collection of people in the country, has culinary treats for every palate and pockettrucks, cafes, and restaurants that Houston

Not only that, but area residents are handy to exciting horseracing at the Sam Houston Race Park, water-sliding thrills at Wet ‘n’ Wild SplashTown, the region’s largest

ning mixed-use town center and one of

water amusement park, themed attrac-

RECREATION

the region’s finest shopping and entertain-

tions and entertainments that are part of

The rolling, treed terrain of northwest

ment destinations. Market Street has more

the Texas Renaissance Festival, and much,

Houston was a draw to the first inhabi-

than 75 national and specialty retailers and

much more.

tants of the area, and still is today. There

restaurants, along with public art, cinemas,

are many parks, green spaces and water-

and a Wi-Fi enabled Central Park. Old

CULTURE

ways where you can escape the city’s bustle

Town Spring is a historic, turn-of-the-last-

Culture and the arts are celebrated in north-

and ground yourself in nature. Here, you

century collection of Victorian-era shops

west Houston. Not only are there many

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

dramatic presentations, companies and schools, there are excellent musical and dance performances all around the area.

Symphony North performs throughout the year. The Cypress Creek Foundation for the Arts (FACE) stages concerts by internationally acclaimed performers, soloists, ensembles and multicultural groups. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, one of

freeways, toll roads, HOV lanes and METRO routes which have been recently extended adding greater mobility. Many businesses are located in outlying hubs, so you can choose to live close to work. For northwest area residents, the Exxon Mobil campus, and the Energy Corridor are very handy. So too, is the George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Parkway and on the rest of the toll roads in Houston and across Texas.

The new Tomball Tollway, Hardy Toll Road and I-45 North provide more critical transportation links for Houston’s northwest.

Now in the final design phase, the Hardy Downtown Connector will extend the

Northwest Houston is intersected with a

Hardy Toll Road from its current terminus

growing network of highways and transit

at the 610 Loop all the way into downtown

options providing residents with convenient

Houston, alleviating congestion at the Loop.

access to the Houston region and the world.

ranging from rock to classical, jazz to

When this connector is completed, the

The Grand Parkway, also known as State

county, and modern opera to contem-

Hardy Toll Road will be an approximately

Highway 99, is Houston’s third loop and

porary American ballet. And the area’s

25-mile express route from downtown

has opened all the way from U.S. 59 South

many museums, galleries and artistic

Houston to just south of The Woodlands.

to U.S. 59 North, bisecting the region on a

displays are sure to impress and inspire.

southwest-to-northeast axis, and making it

Improvements to I-45 between the Sam

In addition, just down the road, are the

possible to drive nonstop from Fort Bend

Houston Tollway and Downtown are also

constantly changing, world-class offerings

County to Montgomery County. The Grand

in the works and will be a great benefit for

of Houston’s cultural scene.

Parkway passes right by the newly opened

Northwest Houston residents who work

the nation’s premier outdoor entertainment venues, presents between 50 and 65 events every March through December,

ExxonMobil campus and many new devel-

in central Houston. METRO Park & Ride

TRANSPORTATION

opments in the area. Any of the Texas-based

services and even water taxis in The Wood-

Even though the city stretches over 627

tags (the HCTRA EZTag, TxDOT TxTAG

lands round out the area’s diverse mobility

square miles, it’s easy to get around using the

or NTTA TollTag) will work on the Grand

infrastructure. 

T HE HOME OF

MORE MONEY FOR MOMENTS THAT MATTER. Our homes have more than just a low HERS score. Our ENERGY STAR®–certified building practices have been known to lower heating and cooling costs up to half on average, which means you can afford to do more living. And just wait until we tell you about the low-E windows, allergy-reducing air filtration, Tyvek® house wrap and sound-blocking wall insulation that we build into every home. Visit us today. Whether you want to build it from the ground up or need the keys ASAP, your dream home is a Meritage home.

Your dream home is waiting. Call: 8 4 4 - 3 1 7 - 0 3 2 8

visit m e r i tag e h o m e s . c o m / n o r t h w e s t

All promotional, marketing, and advertising estimates and claims related to energy savings or performance are created exclusively by third party suppliers, rating services, utility companies, and/or certified auditors, based on U.S. Department of Energy methodology and average energy use and scores. Actual energy savings and performance of any home or any of its features may vary widely, and may be more or less than indicated savings and performance, depending on the personal energy consumption choices of the occupants and changes in energy provider rates and programs. Pictures and other promotional materials are representative and may depict or contain floor plans, square footages, elevations, options, upgrades, extra design features, decorations, floor coverings, decorative light fixtures, custom paint and wall coverings, window treatments (such as shutters, drapes, etc.), landscaping, pool, spa, sound and alarm systems, furnishings, appliances, and other designer/decorator features and amenities that are not included as part of the home and/or may not be available in all communities. Home and community information is subject to change, and homes to prior sale, at any time without notice or obligation. Not an offer or solicitation to sell real property. Offers to sell real property may only be made and accepted at the sales center for individual Meritage Homes communities. See sales associate for details. Meritage Homes® is a registered trademark of Meritage Homes Corporation. ©2018 Meritage Homes Corporation. All rights reserved.

HOU_0817049_Q2_2018_NorthwestJuneAd_7.5x4.875.indd 1

1/11/2017 12:13 PM

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

15

in this section

Photo courtesy of Towne Lake

cities neighborhoods master planned communities

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

HOUSING &

NEIGHBORHOODS Wouldn’t it be nice to share a beer with a neighbor, take a walk in a forest and hear the trill of a cardinal all in one place? One of the neighborhoods of Northwest Houston has the house for you. Each community is unique in its own way, yet they all share an openness of spirit, a heritage of discovery and a sense of community.

ALDINE

golf course, which has been home to the

Amenities include nature trails, green belts,

Situated just north of Beltway 8 and handy to the George Bush Intercontinental Airport is Meadowview Farms, a Trailwood Community by Friendswood Development Company.

New, affordable homes, priced from the $150s to $230s make this community a great choice.

School-aged children are served by Aldine ISD. www.friendswooddevelopment.com

Ryder Cup, the United States Open, The

a lodge-style recreation center, a pool, and

TOUR Championship and others. Settled

a community park. Children are served

between Highway 249 and Interstate 45,

by Giesinger Elementary, a National Blue

the slightly rolling, leafy terrain features

Ribbon School. Other Conroe ISD schools,

Champion Forest, Olde Oaks and North-

shops and restaurants are only minutes

gate Forest, neighborhoods which offer

away. www.graystonehills.com

Another Trailwood Community, Mount Royal Village, sits at Hwy 249 at West

homes for empty nesters or large families; prices range from the $200,000 up to several million. Area students attend schools in the Klein and Cy-Fair Indepen-

Mount Houston. Beautiful homes are

dent School Districts. Shopping, dining

priced from the $140s to $210s. Situated

and entertainment options are many and

in the heart of Houston, residents have

varied along FM 1960.

easy access to work and play; students attend Aldine ISD schools. Learn more at www.friendswooddevelopment.com.

CONROE Just minutes from I-45 off Longmore, is the master-planned Graystone Hills. Amid

Cedar Woods, a Trailwood Community

by Friendswood Developments, features beautiful, affordable homes priced from the $180s to $240s. Area students can attend schools in Conroe ISD. With easy access to The Woodlands Mall, Market Street and Waterway, residents can also take advantage of nearby Lake Conroe and Bentwater, both offering first class golfing and water sports. www.friendswooddevelopment.com

CHAMPIONS/ 1960

gently rolling hills and bluffs, homesites are

Featuring spacious lots and acclaimed

Champions takes its name from the

wider and deeper than average. Homes by

Conroe schools, Stewart’s Forest offers all

Champions Golf Club and its prestigious

quality builders range from $300s to $500s.

the right amenities. Beautiful new homes are

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

17

HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

Lake Conroe - photo courtesy of Annette Evans

priced from the $200s to over $600,000. This

Lakes is only 24 miles from downtown and

Located around Houston’s largest private

rolling, wooded neighborhood is by Century

is built around an outstanding complex

recreational lake, Towne Lake is at the

Communities. www.stewartsforest.net

of schools served by the award-winning

heart of Cypress-Fairbanks. On the water,

Cypress Fairbanks independent School

residents can water ski, sail or fish; beside

District. www.cypresscreeklakes.com

the water, they can stroll along the board-

Jersey Village, Cy-Fair is one of the largest

Bridgeland, a premier master-planned

www.townelaketexas.com

communities

Houston.

community, is made up of four distinct

Cypress Creek meanders through neighbor-

villages; each will offer residents easy

hoods like Copperfield, Steeplechase and

access to parks and trails, playgrounds,

Vintage Woods which offer single-family

pool complexes, schools, shopping, places

homes on tree-lined streets from the low

of work and places of worship. Price

$100s. Rental homes can be found in the

points begin in the $250s and exceed $1

area for monthly rates of around $1000

million. www.bridgeland.com

CYPRESS FAIRBANKS Encompassing Cypress and the city of in

Northwest

to $2000. Attractive new apartments with available

Fairfield features oversized home sites,

throughout the Cy-Fair area. Monthly

priced from $230s to $350s that are

rental rates range from $850 to $3500.

settled around eight lakes, six neighbor-

There is also affordable quality senior care.

hood parks, six neighborhood pools and

www.cyfairchamber.com/housing

numerous pocket parks and greenbelts.

state-of-the-art

amenities

are

www.visitfairfield.com The City of Jersey Village is a home-rule

walk, enjoy a meal, or relax with neighbors.

Miramesa at Canyon Lakes West is a master-planned community centered on the idea that your home is a peaceful refuge at the end of the day and houses are built with quality, comfort and craftsmanship. Prices start in the mid-$200s. www.miramesahouston.com

KATY Cane Island, Houston’s newest masterplanned community, is over 1,000 acres of gorgeous Texas prairie land. Here, small-town charm meets master -plan sophistication filled with creative and unex-

City, operating under a Council-Manager

Rock Creek is a touch of the hill country

pected amenities. Relax in the conservatory,

form of government. Situated at the cross

at the big city’s doorstep. It is an upscale

meet friends at the café, take in a movie

roads of US 290 and Highway 6, careful

development designed for quality living

from one of the multi-level tree houses,

and deliberate planning has made this one

and featuring exciting amenities, like five

or just relax in your beautiful new home.

of the area’s premier communities.

connected lakes, streams and extensive

Within the exceptional Katy ISD and ideally

jogging paths. The main lake is stocked

situated along Houston’s dynamic Energy

Featuring new homes by some of Hous-

with fish and ready for boats. Prices begin

Corridor, Cane Island is close to it all, but a

ton’s

in the $400s. www.rockcreektx.com

world apart. www.caneisland.com

18

finest

builders,

Cypress

Creek

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

KLEIN AREA

Lone Star flag. At the junction of Texas 105

Island, which offers swimming, tennis

In between Houston and Tomball lies Klein,

and FM 149, and near the southwestern

and basketball. www.woodforesttx.com

an unincorporated community which has

edge of Sam Houston National Forest,

thrived since the mid 1800s when German

the city is 15 miles west of Conroe and 50

SPRING

immigrants made it their home. You can still

miles northwest of downtown Houston.

In 1838, Spring was a trading post beside

hear the influence of these early settlers in the street names like Kaiserhoff, Kuykendahl, and Wunderlich. In 1938, the Klein Independent School District was established and it is still flourishing today, emphasizing community and progress, and offering excellent education to students K-12. 1n 1988, the Klein Texas Historical Foundation was established to preserve the community’s heritage. Unincorporated designations often translate to lower

With its preserved 19th Century historic downtown,

this

quaint

city,

nearby

Lake Conroe and the surrounding areas comprise a thriving real estate market where home buyers can find rare one-ofa-kind historic homes, desirable ranches, lake-front

mansions,

communities,

master-planned

traditional

subdivisions

and multi-family complexes.

Spring Creek. Over time, people moved into the area and began to raise sugar cane and cotton. As the city of Houston grew, the importance of the town of Spring diminished, but in 1980 the Old Town Spring Association began to promote the Old Town Spring Shopping District, and it is now a tourist attraction, comprised of historic homes, one-of-a-kind shops and quaint eateries.

taxes and fewer municipal regulations, and

Encompassing Woodforest Golf Club

housing options are many and varied, with a

is one of Houston’s most innovative

Spring is ideally located with schools,

range of traditional residences, new develop-

master-planned communities – Wood-

restaurants,

Forest. With a vibrant array of housing

medical facilities all close by. The Spring

choices, starting in the $190s and going

Independent School District serves the

to over $1 million, Woodforest is equally

educational needs of area children. And

Just a trading post in 1826, Montgomery

convenient to Lake Conroe and The

providing a respite from the hectic urban

celebrated the 175th anniversary of its

Woodlands and provides an intriguing

world, the Spring Creek Greenway will

charter in 2012. It is the birthplace of the

list

connect up to 10,000 acres of forest along

ments and multi-family housing complexes.

MONTGOMERY

of

amenities,

including

Forest

entertainment

venues

and

Miramesa has curated all of the elements that make life a true masterpiece – a prime location, top Cy-Fair ISD schools, acclaimed builders and inviting amenities. Miramesa Residents enjoy a montage of choice on-site amenities including a resort-style pool, tennis court, spray pad, dog park and spacious clubhouse with exercise facilities. Miramesa residents also have full privileges at nearby sister communities Stone Gate and Canyon Lakes West, including the five-acre SplashPad Texas® at Stone Gate.

Visit Miramesa’s gallery of model homes to learn more about this artful community.

New Homes from the $200s MiramesaHouston.com Follow us for community updates

*Prices and availability subject to change without notice.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

19

HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

Spring Creek to preserve and restore this

THE WOODLANDS

Woodlands Mall, Market Street or to a

biologically diverse ecosystem.

The Woodlands is one of the best-selling

performance at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell

master-planned communities in the country.

Pavilion, one of the most popular outdoor

It started in1974 as a bedroom suburb of

amphitheaters in the world.

Just 20 miles north of Houston, the masterplanned community Springwoods Village will ultimately include office and commer-

Houston, just 28 miles to the south, but has become a mecca for residents and corpo-

The Woodlands is served by three highly

cial campuses, a vital health care complex,

rations, with companies like Anadarko,

rated school districts: Conroe, Magnolia and

distinct residential neighborhoods and the

Exxon, Mearsk Sealand and many others

Tomball ISD, along with several award-win-

CityPlace town center. It is being carefully

working and living among the tall pines,

ning private schools. Also situated in The

built to preserve and protect its natural

green belts, 129 parks, and many golf

Woodlands are Lone Star College – Mont-

forest and ecosystems, while creating a

courses. The Woodlands is ten villages, with

gomery and many excellent healthcare

sustainable community that is diverse, walk-

about 32,500 homes, ranging in style and

campuses. www.thewoodlands.com

able, connected and energy efficient. New

price from the high $100s to more than $3

homes and apartments are available for sale

million; in addition, there are 11,000 multi-

TOMBALL

or lease. www.springwoodsvilliage.com

family units. The communities are linked

When the Humble Oil Company (Exxon)

by 190 miles of hike and bike trails. Each

found oil in 1933, Peck became “Oiltown,

village has its own retail area with a grocery

USA.” But it’s Thomas Ball who brought the

store, shops and conveniences.

railway to town that is honored in the name

Lago Woods is a natural retreat where families can enjoy a highly sought-after environment on Shadow Creek just south of the

Tomball. He set in train a period of growth

Woodlands. This exclusive gated commu-

At the heart of this bustling community is

nity by Flair development features just 45

the Woodlands Waterway, a 1.4-mile long

fabulous homes by fine builders. Lucky

linear park that links the office buildings,

Original settlers, many from the Black

families will enjoy living in beautiful homes

shops, restaurants and entertainment venues

Forest region of Germany, were drawn to

amid a forest of tall trees settled around a

of Woodlands Downtown. Take a water

the verdant forests and rich soil around

quaint natural pond. www.lagowoods.com

taxi or trolley to the 1.3 million square-foot

Spring Creek. Today, you’ll find a thriving

and prosperity that continues to this day.

Touching Lives, One Home at a Time.

We are Located Where You Want to Live 21 Offices 1,100+ Local Agents Covering 10 Counties 10,000 Sq. Miles for 55 Years.

Barker Cypress Office

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14080 FM 2920, Suite C Tomball, TX 77377

281.310.5888

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832.334.0001

www.GaryGreene.com ©2018 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.

20

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

business community with lots of amenities,

FM2920 and the Grand Parkway, this gated

Lakes has many pocket parks, open spaces,

parks and recreational areas and plenty of

community allows peaceful, pastoral living.

scenic lakes and trails. www.haydenlakes.com

folks to enjoy them with.

willowcreekranchtx.com

Wildwood at NorthPointe offers a perfect

Woodtrace is at the crossroads of small town

Public parties happen year round and

getaway from the commotion of the big city.

Tomball and big city convenience. Set along

Residents enjoy superb facilities, including a

SH 249, this gated community features homes

the Tomball Museum Center presents a

swimming pool, a clubhouse, a playground,

from $280,000s to the $800,000s. The whole

tennis courts, lakes and a trail system winding

family will enjoy the recreation center, pool,

through the neighborhood and lovely land-

park and clubhouse, five miles of greenbelt

scapes. And within minutes are 11 different

paths with footbridges and trails, 23-acre

City of Tomball parks, several excellent golf

Woodtrace Lake with a canoe/kayak launch

courses and other attractions. Located just off

and fishing dock. Located in the Tomball

SH 249, this master-planned community offers

Independent School District, residents of

houses that are priced between $200,000s to

Woodtrace also have easy access to nearby

the $600,000s. www.wildwoodatnorthpointe.com

shopping, dining and entertainment. Find out

Looking for fun? You’ll find it in Tomball.

more at: www.woodtracecommunity.com Willowcreek Ranch offers 1-7+ acre sites

living history of Tomball from the 1900s in its many historical buildings. The area boasts world-class equestrian centers, parks and golf courses.

Your medical needs will be ably met at the Tomball Regional Medical Center, which just spent almost $7 million to upgrade its facilities and invest in two surgical robots.

Tomball Independent School District serves

set around a 40-acre centerpiece lake for

Hayden Lakes is a new master-planned

most of the area’s children and is comprised

swimming, canoeing, or fishing. There is an

community located in Cypress, Texas and

of 15 outstanding learning centers.

equestrian center, miles of hiking and riding

zoned to the Tomball Independent School

trails, outstanding parks. The five-star Lake-

District. The 200-acre community is offering

You’ll find Tomball just 28 miles northwest

house Lodge and clubhouse features a first-rate

a wide array of amenities such as a lakeside

of downtown Houston on FM2920 at State

fitness facility. Prices for the 210 homes start at

recreation center with a resort-style pool, club

Highway 249. Visit www.tomballtx.gov for

$800,000. Despite its proximity to Hwy 249,

house, playground and dog park.

more information. 

Hayden

FIND YOUR NEW DREES HOME IN HOUSTON’S FINEST COMMUNITIES CONROE Grand Central Park, from the $400s Harper’s Preserve, from the $500s CYPRESS Towne Lake, from the $390s KINGWOOD Royal Brook, from the $420s

ROSENBERG Summer Lakes, from the $250s SPRING Retreat at Augusta Pines, from the $630s TOMBALL Woodtrace, from the $490s

RICHMOND Long Meadow Farms, from the $340s

dreeshomes.com

WE HAVE FLOOR PLANS FOR YOUR BIG PLANS. You’re unique. You like what you like. At Drees, we don’t believe in settling for someone else’s dream home. That’s why we make it easy to design a home that’s so you – right from the start.

See what you can dream up at dreeshomes.com. We also have several quick move-in homes available.Visit our model homes today.

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For information, contact our New Home Specialist at (866) 236-8052 Model hours: Mon-Sat 10-6 and Sun 12-6 *$5,000 towards closing costs available on firm non-contingent Purchase Agreements accepted through December 31, 2018. Financing offer not available with other promotions or discounts and is subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Other restrictions may apply, see a Drees Market Manager for details. ©2017 The Drees Company. All rights reserved. 180148 5/17

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

21

in this section home ownership choosing a realtor rent or buy mortgage options credit reports

22

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

The

HOME FRONT Houston is a city of options; you can live close to your work, surrounded by nature, in a vibrant community, near exciting amenities, or any combination of these. In Northwest Houston, there’s a home for you.

In addition to choice, you’ll find bargains

Do you want a new housing development

county, school district and Municipal Utility

and with today’s low interest rates, now

with the latest amenities, or a settled commu-

District (MUD). The good news is that

might be a good time to buy a house in

nity with established traditions? What about

mortgage interest and property taxes can be

Northwest Houston, where almost every

a yard? Walking or recreational opportuni-

deducted from your federal income tax.

housing budget can be accommodated.

ties? Proximity to shops and work? And the

Single-family home buyers can choose

big one: schools? Even if you don’t have chil-

The best place to start is with a professional

eco-friendly designs, new homes in master-

dren, buying in an area with excellent schools

REALTOR®, who will be able to guide you

planned neighborhoods, luxury residences

will pay off when it comes time to sell.

and your family to the right area and choice.

in established districts. You may want to

Even after the sale goes through, the home

PRE-OWNED HOMES

consider leasing as well, and there are a

needs maintenance and repair and these

Very often, pre-owned homes are situated

range of apartments, condominiums, town-

cost. One rule of thumb is to budget one

in established neighborhoods. This allows

houses and lofts available for lease or sale.

percent of the sale price for maintenance;

you to assess the character of the commu-

another is to set aside one dollar per square

nity, talk to a couple of neighbors, get a feel

Begin your search for the right home at the

foot per year. Generally, upkeep costs will

for the street. Watch for great locations on

Real Estate section of www.houstonnewcom-

go up as the age of the home increases.

golf courses, near parks, lakes or shops. Is

erguides.com or by visiting www.har.com.

Most new homes have warranties that cover

the house in an area zoned to a desirable

in gated communities or resale homes

problems for the first few years. And home

school? Or is it in a place prone to flooding?

HOME OWNERSHIP

warranty policies can be purchased for

Is there a homeowner’s association, deed

There’s nothing like owning your own piece

re-sale homes. In addition, make sure you

restrictions or zoning laws? And consider the

of property to help you feel connected to an

are aware of any deed restrictions or home-

commute. How far is it to work? How does

area and its people. The first consideration is

owner’s association regulations that might

that cost in time and money compare to the

location, location, location. Where do you

be in effect in your chosen area and any

cost of the house? Get the local knowledge

want to live? What neighborhoods appeal?

corresponding assessments. Taxes vary by

from a realtor.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

23

Choosing a Realtor

Pre-owned homes are as different in style

The right realtor can save you thousands.

and often this adds appeal and opportunity.

and character as their previous owners, Some homes are ready to move in; some

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?

you purchase a pre-owned home, hire a licensed inspector to analyze the house, inside and out, to evaluate its condition. 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. The Greater

Houston

Builders

Association

(www.ghba.org) and the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) are excellent sources of reputable home improvement companies.

In addition, the Chambers of Commerce in this guide can provide referrals.

NEW HOMES If starting from scratch and building from the ground up appeals to you, the many outstanding homebuilders in Northwest Houston are ready to help. There is a wide and established subdivisions, on the waterfront, on a golf course, even with a pastoral or forested setting on an acreage. 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

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.

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

tions in order to meet your needs. Before

range of choices for home sites – in new

SPECIALTY CERTIFICATIONS

24

need a little work; others need transforma-

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

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.

“

The Greater Houston Builders Association works to ‘provide advocacy, education and meaningful services to benefit its members and the housing industry.’

”

com for a complete list of homebuilders in

MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES

the Northwest Houston area.

Northwest Houston’s master-planned communities are some of the finest in the country

The Greater Houston Builders Associa-

because they plan for the best use of the land,

tion (GHBA) proudly represents all aspects

allowing exceptional living, lower environ-

of the residential building industry in the

mental impact, quality construction, and

greater Houston area. On their website

mixed use, which attracts families and busi-

(www.ghba.org) you will find a list of area

nesses alike. All of this adds up to thriving,

builders, spec builders, neighborhoods,

vibrant neighborhoods. Housing choices in

product and service providers, as well as

master-planned communities focus on single-

other consumer resources.

family homes in a variety of styles, sizes and

worth it, especially if you work with a quality builder: you get an outstanding, distinctive home built right to your specifications.

Some custom homes are one-of-a-kind. In other cases, builders work with buyers to customize rooms, adjust square footage, add

ment homes are also included in the planned areas and they often share common greenbelts and recreational facilities. Schools, shopping, health care and other services are close to home and, very often, so is work or a transit

$260s-$310s | 713.865.0733

CYPRESS Towne Lake

$250s-$310s | 832.819.7323

Bridgeland

$240s - $290s | 281.627.0867

SPRING Country Lake Estates

$240s-$320s | 281.859.7373

center which reduces the commute. Master planners understand that the best designs bring people together and their communities

details or energy-saving features. Whatever

are further enriched by youth sports leagues,

your new-home dream, it’s not too early talk

welcoming recreation centers, and local events.

THE WOODLANDS May Valley

$260s-$310s | 281.770.2236

to a builder. Be sure to view homes already built by the company and, if possible, speak to homeowners about their experience with the builder and the process. Interview two or more builders before signing a contract,

Map not to scale

Not ready to buy? Many rental houses and

y rkwa Grand Pa

2920

apartment homes are available in North-

Country 45 Lake Estates

99

west Houston; their prices vary by location,

249

Elyson

reviewing references. Once you’ve chosen

Select properties provide apartment infor-

529

the builder, review the contract carefully.

mation, floor plans, photos and virtual tours

You should understand if the final price is

online. What may be considered luxurious in

guaranteed, what the move-in date is and

other parts of the country is standard in North-

how upgrades or change orders are handled.

west Houston. Many units have fireplaces,

Attorneys who specialize in construction are

ceiling fans, built-in microwaves, washer/dryer

available to review contracts and their fee may

connections, on-site recreational facilities and

save you money in the long run, helping you

covered parking. Some facilities allow pets.

to avoid misunderstandings and frustration.

Most require a security deposit and a credit

290

Louetta

Towne Lake

hl

how many homes they’ve completed and

ypress gC Sprin

da

Bridgeland

n ke

square footage, and amenities.

The Woodlands

y Ku

asking how long they’ve been in business,

APARTMENT HOMES

Hardy Toll Road

and planning, the effort and wait are often

KATY Elyson

Huffsmith-Kohrville

While building a custom home takes time

price points. However, townhouses and apart-

Chesmar Homes offers a unique choice new home M • P • G [Modern Design Performance Guaranteed Green Certified]. It means a highly-efficient home that will save you money on energy costs every month in neighborhoods all around Houston:

8

Longenbaugh West Rd.

99

Barker Cypress

Please visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.

610 10

Expand your ideas about the cost of owning a home with new home

CHESMAR.com

CH_NW-Hou-Newcomer-Guide_MAY2017.indd 1

5/23/17 9:42 AM

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

25

NORTHWEST HOUSTON HOME FRONT

card report; leases range from six months to one year, but month-to-month leases are available. Complexes have different plans for utilities, cable and Internet, and additional deposits and activations services may be necessary. Discuss any special housing requirements 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.

Apartment locators or leasing agents can assist with move-in details and local information.

Go to the Houston Apartment Association (www.haaonline.org) to download sample lease forms.

TEMPORARY LODGING

RENTAL HOUSES Need

more

Realtors are the best source for leasing single-family homes. Check out preferred neighborhoods, considering community pools, civic associations and deed restrictions.

Most single-family houses do not include utilities in the lease, so tenants must arrange for electricity, water, gas, cable and internet separately. Deposits are usually one-month’s rent and there may be extra fees for pets, utility installations or service charges. Rental rates vary and start at around $2000 per month, increasing with the size, location, and condition of the property.

room?

Houses,

condos

and townhomes can be leased and are usually listed with area realtors, property management companies or individual owners. The listing of rental houses and townhomes on the Houston Association of Realtors (www.HAR.com) is updated every 15 minutes.

Motels, hotels and luxury suites can be found throughout Northwest Houston.

Many offer exercise rooms, Wi-fi, Jacuzzis and mini kitchens. Short stays are a convenient necessity during a move and, if you stay longer than 30 consecutive days, you will qualify for an exemption from the state’s 6% hotel tax. Be sure to advise the hotel of your extended stay and go to comptroller.tx.gov for an exemption

certificate. (Always consult a tax professional for specific tax information).

DEED RESTRICTIONS Deed restrictions, land-use and building regulations, protect homeowners and their property value. Often functioning in place of zoning laws, they ensure a home is not turned into a commercial establishment or apartment. Deed restrictions are recorded in county records and are binding for all property owners. Some master-planned communities have stricter restrictions to ensure the continued success of the development. New homeowners should be familiar with existing deed restrictions and consult them before making any improvements to the property.

COMMUNITY AND HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS In many neighborhoods, community and homeowner

associations

establish

and

enforce deed restrictions, and all property owners are required to be members.

Most community associations are set up as non-profit corporations and are comprised of property owners within the development. New homeowners become automatic members of the association when they acquire title to the property and are then bound by its rules and enforcement power.

Often, there is an annual maintenance fee.

POOLS AND OUTDOOR ADDITIONS Residents of Northwest Houston enjoy a sunny, mild to hot climate, so outdoor spaces featuring pools, hot tubs, showers, patios,

Design. Personalization. Possibilities.

custom grills and outdoor kitchens are popular.

Many builders incorporate these amenities into

Find your inspired new home in North Houston.

new homes, but they can also be added later.

The Meadows at Imperial Oaks Spring from the $270s

Harmony Spring from the $400s

Lakes at NorthPointe Cypress from the $250s

Harpers Preserve The Woodlands from the $410s

Woodtrace Tomball from the $320s

Kingwood – Village of Royal Brook Kingwood from the $380s

at around $45,000. Financing is usually available through a home improvement loan from a bank or credit union. Construction can take

E X P L O R E T H E P O S S I B I L I T I E S T O D AY 281.946.6961

The average cost of an in-ground pool starts

four to six weeks depending on the season and

a shtonwoods.com

scope of the project. Pool companies can also © 2017 Ashton Woods Homes. All rights reserved. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades or options; community association and golf fees may be required. Plans, specifications, pricing, incentives, features, elevations, and materials subject to change without notice. Square footage and dimensions are approximate, subject to change and may vary in construction. Renderings, maps and displays are artists’ conceptions and not actual depiction of home or its surroundings. Actual position of home on lot to be determined by site and plot plans; basements available subject to site conditions. Community improvements and amenities based on current plans and subject to change with no obligation to be completed. This is not an offer to sell real estate, or solicitation to buy real estate, in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law or where prior registration is required, including New York and New Jersey. Please see Sales Representative for additional information. 6.17

remodel and update existing pools and replace outdated decking and equipment. Some companies offer contracts for on-going maintenance of the pool or landscaping.

HOU17_015_ReloAd_NHouston_r4.indd 1

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

6/15/17 2:22 PM

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

Ready to

BUY YOUR HOME? What you should know

Houston is thriving, the opportunities in this city are appealing and so is the cost of housing. Houston and its surrounding areas offer affordable lifestyles and a wide range of housing options.

Ready to buy a home? You may need a mortgage.

Prepare to negotiate the best mortgage possible by reading the information in this section, assembling required documents and consulting with banks, credit unions and mortgage companies. Consider getting pre-approved, which will make it easier to negotiate the purchase contract.

HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?

MORTGAGES

80%, the lender will estimate the monthly

Unless you have the cash, you’ll have to take

amount for private mortgage insurance.

The house you can afford depends on how

out a mortgage to buy a home. Often the

much money you have saved, your monthly

first step is to choose a property, then look

The purchase price less the down payment is

budget and the amount you feel comfort-

for a mortgage lender or broker to supply the

the principal of the mortgage. Dividing the

able borrowing. Analysts suggest that a

money to purchase the property. Your mort-

principal by the number of payments in a 30 or

maximum 43% debt-to-income ratio is a

gage will consist of the following: the loan

15-year mortgage and adding the interest deter-

good way to determine your ability to repay

amount (the amount you actually borrow),

a mortgage, meaning that all of your house-

mines the monthly house payment. Escrow

the interest rate (the fee the lender charges

hold expenses -- mortgage, car and other

for the use of the money, expressed as an

loans, property taxes, utilities, insurance,

annual percentage), the term or length of the

food, medical costs and others -- should not

loan (the time –usually years – it will take

exceed 43% of your gross income.

to pay back the loan) and amortization (the

money for taxes and insurance is added to the

amount of debt reduced by regular payments The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

of interest and principle). While there are

requires lenders to assess their potential

any number of mortgages and terms, a

customers’ ability to pay before extending

standard 30-year fixed rate or 15-year fixed

credit. They review the borrower’s financial

rate mortgage is most common. (Fixed-rate

health, basing their decisions on documented

means one interest rate for the life of the

income, current debts and assets, and other

loan.) However, an Adjustable Rate Mort-

financial factors.

gage (ARM) with a variable interest rate,

The Texas Housing Affordability Index (THAI) refers to the ability of a median-income family to purchase a median-priced house in an area, reflecting the capacity of

adjusts up or down at select intervals during the loan. Often, ARMs start with a lower interest rate, which can go down, but it can also go up. Consult a lending professional.

that family to qualify for a mortgage, using

The down payment is the cash committed

standard financing terms. A ratio of 1.0 indi-

toward the purchase of your home. A down

cates that the median family income is equal

payment of 20% of the purchase price will

to the income a conventional lender would

help you negotiate a better interest rate, allow

require to finance a median-priced home. A

you to begin building on the equity in your

ratio of less than 1.0 suggests that the family

home and let you avoid private mortgage

could not afford the house; a ratio of greater

insurance. However, if a 20% down payment

than 1.0 says that the family earns enough to

leaves you without at least two months of

buy it. Houston’s THAI for the fourth quarter

housing and living expenses, it is not advis-

of 2016 was 1.92 according to the Real Estate

able. If your down payment is less than 20%,

Center at Texas A&M University.

and the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is more than

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

27

NORTHWEST HOUSTON HOME FRONT

payments, according to the lender’s terms and the amounts are recalculated annually.

Interest rates fluctuate and vary between lenders. You could ask the seller to share some discount or buy-down points to lower the interest rate. Closing costs are significant (3-5% of the purchase price) and may be added to the total amount of the mortgage. In addition, teachers, police officers, firefighters, government employees and first-time homebuyers may qualify for select mortgage programs.

PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION Pre-approval of a mortgage is when a lender reviews your financial status and confirms in writing that it would lend you an amount of money. For this process, you must fill out a loan application and often pay a fee. But, pre-approval assures sellers that you can obtain a mortgage; it also allows you to see

CREDIT REPORTS

which properties you can afford and lets you act quickly when making an offer.

Lenders need your credit report, which is an analysis of your credit history over the last seven-to-ten years. Called the FICO score, it includes your employment history, your payment activity, the amount you owe, the amount of available credit you’re using, the length of the history, any new credit and other factors. You will be scored anywhere between 301 and 850, with anything over 740 considered an

Pre-qualification is based on a casual, non-binding conversation with a lender, and is an estimate of a mortgage that you might qualify for.

FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS For first-home buyers, there are lower-priced options. Housing and Urban Development

excellent score. Higher scores lead to better loans and lower

(HUD) oversees the Federal Housing Admin-

rates. There are three credit reporting agencies and you

istration (FHA) which insures loans that are

may contact them to obtain your credit history.

available to many first-time buyers. These loans feature down payments as low as 3.5% and closing costs may be covered. Applicants

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

must have acceptable credit scores and be able to cover the mortgage and other debts.

Some buyers may qualify for selected assistance programs. To find out about the options

EQUIFAX®

available to you, go to www.tdhca.state.

1-800-685-1111 www.equifax.com

Finance Corporation (SETH) administers

EXPERIAN

tx.us. In addition, Southeast Texas Housing the Texas Department of Housing HOME Program for first-time homebuyers. Call (281)

®

1-888-397-3742 www. Experian.com

484-4663 or visit www.sethfc.com.

TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize them, particularly mortgage

28

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

interest, real estate taxes and primary mortgage insurance (PMI) payments. Visit the IRS at www.irs.gov for homeowner information.

BANKS Banks offer mortgages at competitive rates, as well as checking and savings accounts, debit cards, direct deposit and, often, online banking. Be sure to investigate fees associated with each service, minimum balance requirements, and availability of funds policies. Many banks have extended hours on the weekend and drive-thru windows. Contact the Texas Department of Banking at 1-877-276-5554 or visit www.dob.texas.gov to learn more.

CREDIT UNIONS A credit union is a member-owned financial cooperative that provides banking services to its members, is democratically controlled and, often, community based. Anyone can be a member. Credit unions are insured for up to $250,000 per share owner, per insured credit union, for each account ownership category by the NCUA, but you can increase this coverage.

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are insured separately up to $250,000.

Be sure to shop around to compare financial providers’ customer service, rates and products. For information on credit unions, visit the Texas Credit Union League at www.tcul. org or the Credit Union National Association at www.cuna.org.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE Homeowners insurance protects the home and its contents, and is required by many mortgage lenders. Buyers pay one year of insurance at the closing, and premiums, like taxes, can be added to each month’s payment.

Home insurance can be bundled with other policies for auto, life and health and rates may be lowered if one company handles them all.

An engineering survey may be required to determine the home’s susceptibility to flooding.

Buying insurance is the homeowner’s responsibility and you should compare quotes from a number of companies. Contact the Texas Department of Insurance at 1-800-252-3439 or at www.tdi.texas.gov 

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

29

in this section moving companies forwarding mail utilities public transportation international relo info

30

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

RELOCATION INFORMATION

No one likes to move and it’s never without its headaches and hassles, but the more you understand the process, and your new environment, the easier the move will be and the faster you can start enjoying your new home.

Here is an overview of Northwest Hous-

costs vary dramatically, so be sure to ask

ton’s local services and contacts, as well

about all charges. It’s best to hire a company

as state, county and local ordinances

that guarantees the pickup and delivery date;

and information. For more information

make sure these are included in the contract

and to find the people who are ready

and are not open-ended. On delivery day,

to welcome and assist newcomers, visit

you must be at your new home to receive

www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.

the goods and direct movers to place furniture. If you are not at home, your goods will

USING A MOVING COMPANY OR DOING IT YOURSELF?

go into storage and you may end up paying additional charges.

You might be a do-it-yourselfer, but most moving

companies

provide

SERVICES AND UTILITIES FORWARDING MAIL To schedule a change of address, go to www.USPS.com or pick up a change of address form from your local United States Post Office. The Post Office will send a confirmation verifying your forwarding details. You can set both your forwarding start date and end date.

ELECTRICITY AND GAS

people choose to hire a reputable moving

Although

company to transfer their belongings effi-

liability insurance on household belong-

In Houston, CenterPoint Energy owns and

ciently and carefully. Of course, it charges

ings by the pound, it is wise to buy extra

maintains the electricity delivery system and

for its services, but there are costs associ-

insurance that gives additional coverage,

is the primary provider of natural gas. Visit

ated with moving yourself, like time, effort

especially for those very special items.

www.centerpointenergy.com.

Before the movers come, get prepared. Take

However, Houstonians have the power

an inventory of your belongings and note

to buy their electricity from a number

Moving companies give free estimates,

their condition. If the moving company

of companies. Retail Electric Providers

which are usually based on the distance to

completes its own inventory, check it against

(REPs) compete to sell electricity to homes

be traveled and the weight of the household

your own before you sign it. If any of your

and businesses and may offer lower prices,

contents. Some companies include the cost

items arrive at your new home with damage,

renewable energy options, added customer

of boxes, wrappings and supplies in their

photographic evidence will facilitate a

services and other incentives. The Public

bids; others break out these costs separately.

claim, so consider taking pictures or video

Utility Commission suggests you consider

Packing services, fuel, wait time, and storage

of valuable items before the movers arrive.

the three “C’s” before settling on a supplier:

and potential back strain, so think carefully when deciding.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

31

R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

Contact, Compare, and Choose. Be sure to

Brighton Homes, Castlerock Communities,

Curbside recycling is offered in most neigh-

allow several days for the ordering process

Chesmar Homes, David Weekley Homes,

borhoods and drop-off recycling centers are

so electricity can be hooked-up before

First Texas homes, Grand View Builders,

located throughout the area. For informa-

the move-in date. If you are establishing

Greeneco Builders LLC, Infinity Classic,

tion about Houston’s Curbside Automated

service for a new home, a permit or inspec-

KB Home, Lennar Homes, M/I Homes,

Recycling

tion may be required. Compare prices at

Meritage Homes, Pulte Homes, Ryland

www.powertochoose.org.

Homes, Sandcastle homes, Schumacher

Calendar, visit: www.houstontx.gov.

Homes, Tilson Homes and others. Learn

TXU ENERGY

more about buying an ENERGY STAR

TXU Energy, a good choice for new residents

home at www.energystar.gov.

of Northwest Houston, offers easy plans with

Program

and

a

Recycling

TELEPHONE, CABLE AND INTERNET SERVICE Greater Houston has four area codes – 713, 832, 346, and 281; some residences near the

low fixed rates, and a special mover’s sign-up

WATER AND SEWER

bonus. Mention the promo code “Movers”

Water, sewer and drainage services are

and take advantage of average monthly

typically provided by the public works

billing so your bill will be about the same

department of each city or municipal utility

each month, even in summer.

district (MUD). There are a number of

There are several providers offering satel-

districts in Northwest Houston and services

ENERGY STAR

lite and cable television services, as well

vary. Contact your city of residence or homeowner’s association. In the City of

as high-speed internet. Ask about bundled

ENERGY STAR certified new homes are designed and built for energy efficiency,

Houston, call 713-371-1400.

delivering energy savings of up to 30 percent

Woodlands may also use the 936 area code.

All ten digits are required when making phone calls.

services, special promotional rates and discounts for newcomers.

An ENERGY STAR home has passed a

TRASH PICKUP AND RECYCLING

COMCAST/XFINITY

series of tests, inspections and verifications

Houston, Spring, Tomball, Cy-Fair, The

Xfinity TV, Internet and Voice service

in order to meet the strict requirements

Woodlands, and most municipalities provide

is made possible by Comcast’s network

set by the U.S. Environmental Protec-

trash pickup services. Call the Solid Waste

upgrade to an all-digital platform. They will

tion Agency. These homes provide clean,

Management Department to find out which

set up your new home in no time. Also, ask

comfortable living, with lower utility bills.

day garbage and light trash are collected in

about Xfinity Home – Security – Control –

your area. Some subdivisions contract with

Energy – Peace of Mind at your fingertips.

when compared to most other new homes.

There are many Houston-area builders

local collection companies and associated

building ENERGY STAR homes, like

fees are typically included in your home-

For more information, call 1-877-500 6828

Ashton Woods Homes, Beazer Homes,

owner’s association dues.

or go to: www.comcast.com/moversedge.

32

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

FIRE FOR EMERGENCIES ONLY, CALL 911.

The Houston Fire Department, as well as a number of city fire departments and volunteer departments operate throughout Northwest Houston. Here are contact numbers for these departments.

Aldine Community Fire Department 281-590-8184 Champions Area Volunteer Fire Department 281-444-2014 Cy-Fair Volunteer Fire Department 281- 550-6663 Cypress Creek Volunteer Fire Department 281-894-0151 Houston Fire Department 832-394-6700

Klein Volunteer Fire Department 281-376-4449 Montgomery Fire Department 936-597-4455 Northwest Volunteer Fire Department 281-583-8014 Ponderosa Fire Department 281-444-8465 Spring Fire Department 281-355-1266 Tomball Fire Department 281-351-7101

Jersey Village Fire Department 713-466-2130

PUBLIC SAFETY POLICE For emergencies only, call 911.

The Houston Police Department, other municipal police forces and the Harris County Sheriff ’s Department serve the greater Houston area. Crime Watch programs operate all across Northwest Houston. Contact your homeowner’s association or civic club for information. Crime Stoppers, offering rewards for information that leads to an arrest, can be reached at 713-222-TIPS.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION METRO (Houston’s Metropolitan Transit Authority) offers options for your commute.

A carpool matching service and METRO Vans offer riders the opportunity to share the journey and cost. Express buses provide non-stop journeys to downtown, the medical center and other centers. Park and Ride services are offered from locations all across Northwest Houston. METROlift provides curb-to-curb rides to persons with disabilities.

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1/14/16 1:47 PM

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

33

R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

program. The blue-bordered registration sticker serves as a combined proof of registration and inspection with one expiration date. Passing vehicle inspection will be a requirement to renew a registration.

Vehicles may be registered for license plates at district field offices in the county of residence. The cost is based on the model and year for cars and gross weight for trucks.

All out-of-state vehicles are required to have the following for registry in the state of Texas: (1) proof of safety inspection, (2) your out-of-state title, (3) payment of a new resident fee, a title fee, the license plates In order to make your drive easier, consider

liability insurance, and must produce proof

using select freeways’ convenient HOV

of it if stopped. The minimum liability limits

(High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes which are

are $30,000 for each injured person, up to a

available during peak periods for vehicles

total of $60,000 per accident and $25,000

with two or more riders. For schedules, trip

for property damage per accident. This basic

planners, commute calculators and route

coverage is referred to as 30/60/25.

cost, and (4) proof of liability insurance.

Subsequent registration may be handled by mail or in person.

TEXAS GOVERNMENT VOTER REGISTRATION You must be 18 years old, a resident of the

information, visit www.ridemetro.org or call You have 30 days to register your

county in which you’re registering and a

vehicle after establishing residency. You

U.S. citizen to vote. Simply fill out a voter

The Harris Country Toll Road Authority

can do this at your local County Tax

registration application which is available

(HCTRA) operates approximately 132 miles

Office, which you’ll find if you visit

at a Voter Registrar’s Office, the Secre-

of roadway in the greater Houston area. The

www.txdmv.gov/motorists/new-to-texas.

tary of State’s Office, many post offices,

713-635-4000.

libraries and high schools. Submit your

Westpark Tollway, Tomball Tollway, Katy Managed Lanes and the Northeast section

New Texas residents who hold a driver’s

application no later than 30 days prior to

of the Sam Houston Tollway all have elec-

license from another state, U.S. territory,

an election in order to vote in it. Contact

tronic tolling – no toll booths, and no cash.

Canadian province or other qualifying

the Texas Secretary of State at 1-800-252-

An EZ TAG is required. EZ TAG lanes on

country can legally drive for 90 days after

VOTE or visit www.votetexas.gov.

the Hardy Toll Road allow drivers to sail past

establishing residency. But then, they must

the toll booths. The four Katy Managed lanes

get a Texas Driver’s License. Visit www.

run from SH 6 to IH 610 down the middle of

LEGAL RECORDS

txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/movingto-

I10 and are free to vehicles with two or more

Legal

texas.htm to learn more.

County include birth certificates, death

people during peak times. In addition, single drivers can now use these lanes (called HOT

Motorist

Assistance

Program

(MAP)

lanes) by paying a toll. For maps, rates and

helps stranded motorists. Offered by The

other information, go to www.HCTRA.org.

Harris County Sheriff ’s Department and

For real-time traffic reports and maps, check

METRO, specially marked MAP vehicles

out www. houstontranstar.org.

are equipped to handle minor emergencies like changing a tire, providing fuel or a jump

AUTOMOBILES

start, removing the vehicle from the roadway

In Texas, you must buckle up. Children eight

and transporting the stranded motorist. Call:

years old or younger, or shorter than 4-feet-

713-CALL-MAP or 713-225-5627.

records

maintained

by

Harris

certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings, taxes and more. Call the Harris County Court House at 713-7556411 or go to www.co.harris.tx.us.

PET LICENSING/ LEASH LAWS

car seat. Texas law also requires people who

TWO STEPS, ONE STICKER

drive in Texas to pay for any accidents they

Texas employs a “Two Steps, One Sticker”

Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. They will need a booster after a year, and then every one-to-three years after that. Any veterinarian can administer vaccinations and provide license tags, as well as informa-

may cause. So, you must have automobile

vehicle

tion on keeping your pet healthy in Texas. 

9-inches, must be secured in an approved

34

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

inspection

and

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

registration

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

GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS 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

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

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 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

CONSUMER RESOURCES 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

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. 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

POST OFFICE 77014 - Cornerstone 14403 Walters Rd ......................281-444-1355 77060, 77066 & 77067 - Greens North 1530 Greensmark Dr...................281-875-0323 77064, 77069 & 77070 - Willow Place 12955 Willow Place W................281-890-9416 77065 - Fairbanks Carrier 7050 Brook Hollow.....................713-937-7691 77068 & 77090 - Westfield 17119 Red Oak...........................281-444-7295 77095 - Bear Creek 16015 Cairnway Dr.....................281-855-2556 77375 & 77377 - Tomball 122 N. Holderrieth Blvd. ............281-516-0513 77379 - Klein 7717 Louetta Rd.........................281-257-3806 77389 - Spring 1411 Wunsche Loop.................. 281-288-6652 77410, 77433 & 77429 - Cypress 16635 Spring Cypress..................281-373-0279 713-842-9771

SPORTS AND TICKET INFORMATION Houston Astros Tickets/ Ticketmaster.... 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

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

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.

36

TRANSPORTATION

Credit Card

Texas Drivers License Application & Locations: www.txdps.state.tx.us/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.

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 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.state.tx.us • 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

37

in this section

Photo courtesy of Klein ISD

STAAR public schools private schools higher education

38

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

EDUCATION IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON Home to some of the largest and most highly rated public school districts in Texas and the U.S., Northwest Houston offers its residents an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities.

In Northwest Houston, your child will get a

career readiness. Reading and mathematics

CHARTER SCHOOLS

great education at one of the many quality

are tested each year in grades three to eight;

Charter schools operate under fewer rules,

private and public schools which you’ll

writing in grades four and seven; science in

which allows for innovation, flexibility

discover in this section. There are also a

grades five and eight; social studies in grade

and more personalized learning. They

variety of adult educational opportunities in

eight and end-of-course (EOC) assessments

offer tuition-free open enrollment and may

the area’s universities and colleges.

are required for English 1, English 11,

specialize in a specific area; some offer

algebra 1, biology and U.S. history, which

students in higher grades the chance to take

count for 15% of the final grade in that

high school and college courses simulta-

course. www.tea.texas.gov.

neously. Charter schools must be fiscally

Five independent school districts offer public education in the area: Cy-Fair, Houston, Klein, Spring and Tomball. Each district works to provide learning, and extra-curricular options for all students

SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS

while meeting the Texas Education Agen-

Students enrolling in Texas Public Schools

cy’s standards assessments and many have

can be tested for dyslexia and related disor-

received numerous rewards for their efforts.

ders. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

and academically as accountable as public schools, adhere to the Texas Education Agency curriculum standards and give their students STAAR tests. The State of Texas provides funds based on the average daily attendance of the students, just as it does for

prohibits discrimination and assures that

public schools; however, charter schools do

STUDENT ASSESSMENT: STAAR

students who are disabled by a physical

not receive funds from local tax revenue and

The

of

or mental impairment have educational

most do not receive state facilities funding.

Academic Readiness Program measures a

opportunities equal to those provided to

Visit Texas Charter Schools Association at

child’s academic growth, and college and

non-disabled students.

www.txcharterschools.org.

State

of

Texas

Assessments

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

39

N O R T H W E S T H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N

Photo courtesy of Cypress Christian School

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

construction projects and other renovation plans underway.

www.cfisd.net • 281-897-4000 downtown

Houston, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is one of

The professionals at CFISD work to maximize every student’s potential through rigorous and relevant learning experiences preparing students to be 21st Century global leaders.

the fastest-growing school districts in the nation, with a student enrollment of almost 115,000. It is the second-largest district in the Houston area, the third-largest in the state, and was awarded the TEA’s highest possible rating of Met Standard for the fourth straight year. CFISD is a destination district for its college/career preparation, extracurricular prowess and award-winning programs. With a diverse student population (students speak more than 100 languages or dialects), it is proof of the visionary work

The CFISD vision is LEAD: Learn.

Empower. Achieve. Dream.

Houston Independent School District www.houstonisd.org • 713-556-6000

a robust portfolio of schools, including

taxpayers who believe in making life better for the next generation: CFISD offers an unparalleled universal public education experience for all children.

A fiscal leader in Texas, the district is one of only three to earn a five-star rating from Texas Smart Schools for all six years of the program. CFISD opened its 11th high school in August and currently has 8 new

and vanguard schools, charter schools, fine arts and language programs, early college high schools and career academies, and other specialized programs. The district has placed an emphasis on ensuring all students have access to a global education and are prepared to compete and be successful in a global society upon graduation. In fact, the district had 35 schools on The Washington Post’s 2017 list of America’s Most Challenging High Schools.

The Houston Independent School District is the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh largest in the United States.

HISD is focused on providing safe, secure schools where students can excel and prepare for college and careers.

Klein Independent School District www.kleinisd.net • 832-249-4000 At Klein Independent School District (Klein ISD), every student enters with a promise and exits with a purpose. Klein ISD achieves

of educators, businesses, organizations and

40

HISD stands out as a district of choice with strong neighborhood campuses, magnet

Cy-Fair Independent School District

Twenty miles northwest of

Photo courtesy of Klein ISD

The district has at least 28,000 full-time employees, educates more than 215,000 students in 287 schools spread out over 334 square miles. HISD’s property tax rate is the lowest in Harris County and the second lowest among the state’s 12 largest school districts, but 96% of rated HISD schools met state student progress standards, and HISD has reduced students’ drop-out rate by 43% in the last 8 years.

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

this vision by centering on the following five targets: pathways, challenge, equity, leadership and continuous improvement.

As Promise2Purpose investors, district staff focus resources and relationships on three strategic priorities.

The first strategic priority is Reimagine Learning. This priority is defined as personalized learning, a flexible and challenging

curriculum, as well as standardized evaluation. Cultivate Talent is our second priority and is achieved through a best-in-class leadership pipeline, feedback loops and self-reflection, as well as targeted professional learning. The final strategic priority is Build Community. We achieve this via relationships, mentoring and partnerships, engaging, educating and equipping families, and through cultural responsiveness.

Ensuring that every student has a clear pathway to success allows the district to personalize learning and ensure that all graduates have a bright future ahead of them. Before graduation, Klein ISD promises students the opportunity to explore and experience various pathways that include not only successful mastery of a guaranteed and viable curriculum, but also coursework and experiences that appeal to students’ unique talents, interests, and abilities.

Klein ISD is comprised of five high schools, nine intermediate schools, 31 elementary schools, one early childhood/

prekindergarten school, one high school of choice and two specialized campuses. High school students may also choose to attend the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) Programme or the International Business Academy (IBA) housed on two of the high school campuses.

Considered a fast-growth district, each year hundreds of new families choose to live in Klein because they appreciate its exceptional staff, excellent facilities, outstanding academics, exceptional sports and fine arts programs, active volunteer programs, and emphasis on student safety.

Spring Independent School District www.springisd.org • 281-891-6000 Spring ISD is focused on preparing each student for success. The district’s strategic plan, EVERY CHILD 2020, outlines an unwavering commitment to meeting every child exactly where he is so that he has what he needs to get where he wants to go, in school and in life.

This diverse and growing district, serves about

37,000

pre-kindergarten

through

twelfth-grade students over 38 campuses. Its new vision is guiding Spring Independent School District to be a district of choice known for high-quality academics with innovative and specialized programs that meet the needs of all students in a positive learning environment.

Every learner can succeed in Spring: Academic acceleration and enrichment are 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 strong 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, through art, dance, music, theater and speech programs, Spring ISD students have been recognized regionally and nationally for achievement in the arts.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

41

N O R T H W E S T H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N

Tomball Independent School District www.tomballisd.net • 281-357-3100 The Tomball Independent School District is a highly regarded public school system that maintains a reputation for excellence. Encompassing 83 square miles in northwest Harris County and southwest Montgomery County, it is approximately 30 miles from downtown Houston. It serves more than 14,800 students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade in 18 modern, well-equipped facilities that were designed and built with students and their needs in mind. Proactively

every index of the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR).

The professionals at Tomball ISD believe that their students will lead in creating the future, and they are working to educate them to become responsible, productive citizens by providing innovative, individually rigorous, and personally valuable educational experiences. The students are also enriched through leadership opportunities provided through organizations, clubs, and athletic teams. Learning to be a leader teaches students integrity, honesty, humility, courage, and commitment.

meeting the needs of this growing area, four of new schools were opened in the last two years.

The district is committed to high student achievement characterized by quality

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Cypress Christian School www.CypressChristian.org 281-469-8829

instruction, equality of opportunities and resources, and demonstrated results. And it’s working: Tomball ISD and every one of its campuses exceeded the standard for

Cypress Christian School is an accredited K-12 private Christian school in northwest Houston with a 39-year history

and a mission to provide students an education based upon academic excellence and biblical values. At CCS, each faculty member is degreed and certified and is committed to academic excellence and to the Christian faith. The biblical worldview permeates the CCS curriculum, weekly chapel services, athletics, fine arts and special programs. The admissions policy requiring one parent be a Christian encourages a Christ-centered partnership between parents and school. CCS students are challenged to develop to their full potential through co-curricular activities, community service and academics, which is evident through students’ 100% college acceptances.

Please call 281-469-7745 or go to CypressChristian.org to learn more about how CCS offers a distinctly Christian education.

Primrose School of Barker Cypress www.primrosebarkercypress.com 281-225-0123 Primrose School of Barker Cypress is a private preschool that provides an exclusive early learning approach that balances purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers to encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion.

They believe who children become is as important as what they know.

Primrose Schools is accredited by the early education division of AdvancED, a national academic accreditation agency.

“How does Primrose do it?”

Their research-informed approach to teaching, learning and care is unparalleled. They deliver more than a curriculum; it’s a lifechanging early learning experience for children and their families. The adventure of discovery and unparalleled learning that Primrose children experience comes from progressing through their comprehensive and connected Balanced Learning approach.

“What is Balanced Learning?” Balanced Learning is Primrose’s exclusive, timetested approach which nurtures intellectual, creative, physical and social-emotional development. It balances play and guidance to appeal to different learning styles;

42

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

uses an inquiry-based early learning cycle; and enables teachers to focus on each child.

Balanced Learning is created and regularly reviewed by early childhood experts, and is time-tested.

The mission of Primrose Schools is to forge a path that leads to a brighter future for all children, and their vision is to deliver the best and most trusted early education and care for children and families across America.

elective courses, athletic programs, and community service opportunities to enable students to fully develop a broad range of gifts and talents. In addition to fine arts and technology courses, Rosehill is the only private Christian school in the area to offer Agricultural Science as a course to complement its school-sponsored 4-H program.

Seventeen competitive sports teams train their student-athletes in a first-class Athletic Training Center and Field Complex.

“What is the Primrose experience?” It is the peace of mind that their people, their Balanced Learning approach, and their commitment to service excellence foster in those who interact with Primrose Schools.

Stop by Primrose School of Barker Cypress for a tour so you can experience the Primrose difference for yourself!

Primrose School of Barker Cypress is located at 16555 Dundee Rd, Cypress, TX 77429;

Tomball, 6 miles west of Highway 249 and just minutes north of the Grand Parkway.

To learn more about their campus, faculty, and philosophy call or visit their website.

Salem Lutheran School www.salemlutheran.com • 281-351-8223 Salem Lutheran School, est. 1853, has been providing quality Christ-centered education for K-8th grade, and Infant-Pre-K programs.

These are high standards, but

necessary for the Primrose experience.

The school is located at 19830 FM 2920 in

In May 2017, Rosehill Christian School continued a 25-year tradition of excellence by graduating its 18th senior class. In that time, 98% of its graduates have pursued post-secondary studies at colleges and universities worldwide. Of those, six were National Merit Scholarship Finalists. Many students start their collegiate studies early by taking advantage of dual-credit course offer-

Salem is a National Blue Ribbon School,

ings. They can receive a maximum of 38 credit hours while attending Rosehill from a selection of over 50 credit hours, enabling many to start college as a sophomore.

Salem Lutheran School recognizes that

a 2014 National Exemplary School and its principal, Dr. Mary Beth Gaertner is a 2012 National Distinguished Principal.

Salem Lutheran School educates the “whole child.” The educators strive to provide curriculum and instruction that supports growth in academics as well as character. the parent is God’s ordained authority and their child’s most influential teacher. For the best possible outcomes, faculty and staff

phone 281-225-0123; and can be found online at www.primrosebarkercypress.com .

Rosehill Christian School www.rcseagles.org • 281-351-8114 Rosehill

Christian

School

(RCS)

is

a

college-preparatory Pre-K through 12th grade non-denominational Christian school. As an extension of the Christian home, RCS partners with parents to develop young men and women who continuously grow in their walk with Jesus Christ. Rosehill Christian cultivates the belief that there is one chance to educate children and that the journey matters.

Beyond providing an outstanding educational

Because The Journey Matters.

foundation, the journey at Rosehill produces transformation in children, teaching the

Pre-K - 12th Grade | Fully Accredited | RCSEAGLES.ORG

importance of service, developing courage, emphasizing the need for community, and

Christian,

well-qualified

2920

along with a full range of instructional technology, to reach the diverse student body.

RCS also offers an extensive selection of

GRAND PARKWAY

strategies enriched by hands-on activities,

CYPRESS ROSEHILL

Rosehill

teachers use a blend of traditional teaching

MUESCHKE RD

At

RD

equipping students for eternity

We’d love to have you JOURNEY with us!

Visit RCSEAGLES.ORG and set up a tour today.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

43

N O R T H W E S T H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N

desire to partner with parents effectively by

aside for an independent school by Wood-

Students choose LSC because of the extra

communicating honestly and frequently in

lands founder George Mitchell. The school

attention they get thanks to the small class

regard to the child’s progress. When your

opened in 1988 and has grown to become

sizes, averaging only 23 students per class,

child graduates from the learning environ-

one of the premier independent schools in

the convenient campus locations that are

ment, they will be well grounded in Christ

the Houston area.

close to home and the flexible schedules LSC offers. No matter what their goals,

and well-rounded for life.

Cooper provides a challenging education in

Lone Star College is ready to help them

Salem Lutheran School school provides a safe

a caring environment. Traditional educa-

realize their dreams.

environment (physically and emotionally) in

tional practices combined with innovative

which to learn and grow. Current research has

new teaching methods enable students to

proven what Salem Lutheran already knows

become critical and creative thinkers, effec-

- that a safe, structured, nurturing and predict-

tive communicators, responsible citizens and

able environment in which a child feels secure,

leaders, and lifetime learners.

sets the stage for optimal learning.

Faith, ethics and leadership drive Salem Lutherans efforts. They provide the student body with a foundation of faith in a triune God, examples of Christian ethics within the school environment and the working community, and the opportunity for leadership roles at all grade levels in order to apply faith and ethics in real life situations.

Salem

Lutheran

School

is

currently

located at 22601 Lutheran Church Road, Tomball Texas 77377.

HIGHER EDUCATION Lone Star College www.LoneStar.edu Houston and the gulf coast region can be full of surprises: world class museums, five star restaurants and star studded entertainment are just some of the amenities that attract people from all over the world.

Another benefit the area enjoys is Lone Star College. Many people are surprised to learn

LSC is recognized as a world leader in workforce training and helps build a strong regional workforce in industries like health care,

construction,

accounting,

energy,

computer technology and transportation.

LSC also helps qualified students find financial aid and grant funding options that can provide training at little or no cost.

Many students interested in a four-year degree start at LSC, then transfer to the university of their choice, saving thousands of dollars without sacrificing quality. LSC students can also take advantage of the Honors College at LSC for high achieving students and study abroad and international programs, programs not commonly associated with a community college.

that LSC has more than 95,000 students

High school students can get a jump-start

walk through its doors each semester. LSC

on college with Dual Credit classes which

is today’s smart choice for students looking

allow them to earn high school and college

An independent, PK-12, college preparatory

to earn an undergraduate degree, start a new

credit simultaneously. Students save money

school, located on 43 acres that were set

career or update their skills.

on college tuition, complete their degrees

The John Cooper School www.johncooper.org • 281-367-0900

44

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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quicker and build confidence by easing the transition to college. LSC was recently recognized as a Top 5 producer of associate degrees, ranking fourth nationally among all community colleges in the U.S. by Community College Week magazine.

LSC is a proud member of the community and a major contributor to the local and regional economy with an annual economic impact of $3.1 billion.

Affordable, close to home, world class.

When you add up all the benefits, you can see why more than 95,000 students choose Lone Star College. Visit LoneStar.edu to learn more about the significant role LSC plays in the community.

UHD’s footprint in the greater Houston area has expanded outside of downtown.

Students living or working in the city’s northwest region can earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees at UHD Northwest, located at Highway 249 and Louetta at Lone Star College-University Park. This northwest Harris County location is convenient to nearby residents and those who work and live in western Montgomery and Waller counties. UHD Northwest offers 19 undergraduate and four graduate programs across four academic colleges, including College of Public Service, College of Business, College of Humanities and College of Sciences and Technology. Instruction is delivered in the classroom, online or using a hybrid of both.

The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) www.uhd.edu/northwest • 713-237-5400 For four decades, the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) has helped Houstonians advance their careers with bachelor’s and master’s degrees and professional certifications. UHD also grows professionals through a number of extracurricular initiatives aimed at delivering real-world lessons.

UHD Northwest also offers four graduate certificates for career advancement: finance, human resource management, leadership and supply chain management.

Students who perform well in one of the graduate

certificate

concentrations

Faculty at UHD include noted scholars, artists and award-winning authors and poets, all of whom work closely with students and serve as mentors. Among UHD’s 44,000 alums are esteemed civic and business leaders, who help elevate the city’s role in the national and global economies.

are

Contact the UHD Northwest Campus today to learn more about what UHD can do for you!

Our Lady of the Lake University 936-273-7628 • www.ollusa.edu/houston Located in the Lone Star College University Center, Our Lady of the Lake University’s Houston campus offers several bachelor’s, master’s and a doctoral degree option in leadership studies. OLLU offers weekend programs that cater to busy people who need more flexibility than a traditional college schedule permits. That’s why OLLU was the first school to develop a weekend degree program in 1986.

The University was founded in 1895 in San Antonio, Texas, by the Congregation of Divine Providence and has become a landmark institution. OLLU is a non-profit, liberal arts institution with a

TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Located along Buffalo Bayou in the heart of the city’s business district, UHD serves more than 14,000 students from all walks of life.

It is Houston’s second largest university and offers 44 undergraduate degrees and eight graduate degrees. UHD is also home to one of the city’s top Master of Business Administration programs.

Students select UHD because of its accessibility, affordability and quality. In addition to learning in the classroom, students venture into Houston itself to contribute their talents to community engagement projects.

Such initiatives are not only educational for students but touch the lives of Houstonians.

eligible for admission into the UHD MBA program— no GMAT required.

Earn a degree on weekends

BACHELOR’S • MASTER’S • DOCTORAL Our Lady of the Lake University gives you scheduling options and affordable tuition to complete your undergraduate or graduate degree on the weekends and reach your career goals.

ATTEND ONE OF OUR FREE INFORMATION SESSIONS Visit www.ollusa.edu/houston and click on Events BACHELOR’S DEGREES • Business • Management • Psychology - General or Pre-Counseling • Sociology

MASTER’S DEGREES • MBA - Healthcare Management or Management • Psychology - Family, Couple and Individual Therapy

DOCTORAL • PhD in Leadership Studies

OLLU • LSC- University Center

3232 College Drive • The Woodlands, TX 77384

936-273-7628 • www.ollusa.edu/houston HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

45

N O R T H W E S T H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N

current enrollment of approximately 3,400 students. The Houston-area campus, first located on the Lone Star College-North Houston grounds, was established in 1986 and moved to its current location in the LSC-University Center in The Woodlands in 2011. A Rio Grande Valley campus was also established in 2008.

The Weekend College at OLLU-Houston has developed a strong reputation for providing an intense learning experience to people committed to earning bachelor’s, master’s, and a doctoral degree on the weekend. Now, students in the Houston area can earn a bachelor’s degree with flexible schedule options and a more affordable tuition rate. Graduate students can enroll in career-advancing professional programs that include our popular MBA program with concentrations in management and healthcare, a Master of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Sociology. Working adults can now earn a PhD without having to sacrifice their employment.

Built on OLLU’s core values of Community, Integrity, Trust and Service, the OLLU Houston Campus continues its long tradition of bringing high-quality, affordable access to the adult learners in the Houston area. These programs allow for a balance of work, family and school. And with less than 20 students per class, OLLU is proud of its more individualized learning environment.

Photo courtesy of Lone Star College

Lone Star College, New Sci-Tech Building Courtesy of Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce

46

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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Admissions specialists, academic advisors and financial aid counselors are available on-site to help students meet their educational goals.

New Horizons - Your Partner in Training www.nhhouston.com • 713-552-1414 For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been a leader in IT training. With over 100 locations worldwide, they have grown to become the largest independent training company in the industry.

Their career and corporate training solutions help turn ambitious personal and business goals into results. They use varying training methods for virtually every schedule and learning 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

A LEADER IN HIGHER EDUCATION

professional development.

Flexible

Training

Approach

Based

on Learner Needs - They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy specific needs.

Learning

methods

include

Online

Lone Star College is nationally recognized academic leader.

• Top 5 Associate Degree Producer in the nation • 4th in the U.S. for the number of Hispanic students earning their associate degrees • High-quality academic transfer programs • Workforce education and career training programs • Full online degrees, hybrid classes and convenient individual online courses

ANYTIME, on-site training, private

• A prestigious Honors College which offers a wide range of opportunities for high-achieving students

classes and Online LIVE. Online Live

• A fraction of the cost of a four-year university

removes geographical boundaries from

Lone Star College is a productive community partner that is close to home, affordable, and focused on student success.

learning

by

bringing

students

and

instructors together synchronously in a

Visit LoneStar.edu to learn more.

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 work, home or a New Hori-

10.18.17.06

LSC-CyFair • LSC-Kingwood • LSC-Montgomery • LSC-North Harris • LSC-Tomball • LSC-University Park 10.18.17.06 HoustonNewcomer'sGuideAd_v1FIN.indd 1

10/20/17 8:51 AM

zons center.

New Horizons offers real-time, cloudbased 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, based on manager surveys regarding the improved performance and productivity of their employees immediately following New Horizons training. 

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

47

Courtesy of The Boardwalk - Caldwell Companies

in this section major employers local chambers of commerce houston by the numbers cost of living & map

48

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

BUSINESS &

COMMUNITY If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a newcomer relocating to the Houston region for the city’s tremendous employment opportunities – some of the best in the nation.

Within

the

600-square-mile

Houston

at the Port of Houston in 2017. One of

Hardy Toll Road, this trend will continue.

region, no area shines brighter than North-

the region’s largest employers, the Texas

The state-of- the-art campus will house its

west Houston, home to one of the largest

Medical Center should handle another 10

Upstream, Downstream, Chemicals compa-

recent corporate relocations anywhere in

million patient-visits. Area refiners will

nies and associated service groups and will

the nation. Houston is still the place for

continue to supply one-fourth of the nation’s

ultimately accommodate 10,000 workers.

business and work. A year after the oil

gasoline, diesel and jet fuel needs. Interna-

Other prestigious companies located in

bust reached its bottom, the city’s economy

tional trade will continue to be a significant

Northwest Houston are Sysco, Friendswood

is recovering, but slowly, according to

contributor to Houston’s economy; more

Development, and Hewlett-Packard.

Bill Gilmer, director of the Institute for

than 5,000 Houston firms will engage in

Regional Forecasting at the University of

international business. Another new Hous-

Area businesses run the gamut with auto

Houston’s Bauer School of Business. He

tonian will arrive about every 4 minutes, and

dealerships, grocery stores, hotels, eateries,

forecasts the area will add about 38,000

this population growth will continue to drive

and any other service or product a thriving

new jobs this year, which is twice as many

job gains in a number of sectors, including

city requires. Tech companies have lined

as those added in 2016, but below recent

government (especially public education),

up along SH 249 and the Vintage Park is

historical averages. And the local unem-

leisure and hospitality and health care.

an 84-acre complex of high-end shopping, entertainment,

ployment rate of 5.9% (in March) is up a

restaurants

and

profes-

Northwest Houston is a significant part of

sional office space. Newcomers can expect

this dynamic business environment and

to find clusters of office buildings, ware-

But, the city’s diversified economy means

continues to see growth in corporate relo-

houses and light manufacturing facilities.

opportunities exist anyway. If energy is

cations, business development and new

Service companies, building and construc-

floundering, other sectors sail on. More

residents. With the opening of the Houston

tion companies, suppliers, and related

than 8,000 freighters and tankers will dock

campus of Exxon Mobil near I-45 and the

business groups continue to fill the existing

percentage point up from last year.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

49

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

NORTH HOUSTON MAJOR EMPLOYERS

commercial spaces. In fact, this part of

north Houston from US 290 to US59 have

Houston is known for its distribution facili-

just been opened.

ties due to its handy location.

highway continues.

While all of Northwest Houston is benefit-

Greater Tomball Chamber of Commerce www.tomballchamber.org

Anadarko Energy Svc. Co.

ting from the new ExxonMobil campus, The

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

Woodlands, Spring and I-45 North areas are

Archrock Inc

also undergoing major change. As the need

Baker Hughes BP Bredero Shaw

for more employees and houses grow, so too, does the need for buildings and facilities for businesses serving them. Northwest Houston is hopping and full of energy.

Source: SalesGenie InfoUSA and information provided by area chambers of commerce and economic development agencies

CB&I Inc.

Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce www.CyFairChamber.com

Conroe Regional Medical Ctr.

Cy-Fair boasts a favorable business climate

Criminal Justice Dept.

in which to live and grow. For over 25

DB Schenker USA

years, the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of

Estelle Unit

Commerce has represented business in

Express Jet Airlines Inc.

one of the fastest growing areas of Texas,

ExxonMobil Downstream ExxonMobil Upstream Research Fleetpride Inc

providing a voice for the over 500 members to establish strategic partnerships in transportation, education and infrastructure.

Members include small to medium orga-

FMC Material Handling System

nizations to Fortune 500 companies, and

FMC Tech Measurement Solutions

benefits include mentoring new businesses,

FMC Technologies Inc.

exclusive

GE Oil & Gas

opportunities, instructive seminars, work-

George Bush Intercontinental Airport

shops and valuable data resources.

Halliburton Co.

sponsorship

and

The Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce provides resources and fosters relationships so businesses can prosper.

First organized in the 1920s, the GTCC has since grown into a vital organization with

Broadcom Corp.

Callfasst International Corp

Development on the

marketing

an excellent reputation for representing the interests of its members, while providing passionate advocacy for the community.

The Chamber’s Program of Work is divided into four categories: Economic Development, Community Service, Special Events and Membership Development. Through these initiatives, members have the opportunity to network with other business people and community leaders, work to generate publicity about their own business through active involvement in Chamber activities or have a role in community affairs. In addition, members can take advantage of many events organized by the Chamber, like Business After Hours, Networking Luncheons and Breakfasts and others. The golf classic, the Chairman’s Ball, Tomball

The Chamber is also active in growing

Night, Tomball Holiday Parade and Miss Tomball Pageant are major events in the

Houston Methodist Willowbrook

economic development, facilitating trans-

Houston Northwest Medical Ctr.

portation, as well as supporting schools

Kingwood Emergency Hospital

and educators to ensure a skilled or

GTACC and its partners work together to

Lone Star College-Cy Fair

highly trained work force for the future.

ensure spirit of community and quality of

Montgomery County Courthouse

Members of this dynamic network take

life are more than just phrases in this city

advantage

with a heart.

Mrs. Baird’s Bakeries Inc. MS Energy Svc. Nabors Drilling USA LP New Caney ISD NOV Nova Health Care Ctr.

of

opportunities

to

grow

City of Tomball.

their businesses, build relationships and interact with the community.

The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com

The Greens Bayou Corridor www.greensbayou.org The Greens Bayou Corridor Coalition seeks to benefit the economy and enhance the

The Grand Parkway (SH99) is a proposed

PCS-CTS

quality of life for the more than 500,000

180+-mile circumferential scenic highway

residents in the Greens Bayou water-

Ricoh USA

traversing seven counties and encircling

shed through flood mitigation, parks and

Schlumberger

the Greater Houston region. This third

trails development, and economic growth.

TAS Commercial Concrete

outer highway loop is funded by various

Greens Bayou meanders approximately

sources, and its first segment, from US 59

45 miles from Jersey Village, across north

to north of IH10W, was opened to traffic

Houston, through Greenspoint and down

in August 1994. Two new sections through

to the Houston Ship Channel. The variety

Tomball Regional Med. Ctr. Wood Group Mustang Engineering

50

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

of scenery and wildlife of the bayou is as diverse as the neighborhoods through which it runs.

Greens Bayou Corridor is also just a nice place to be. There are more than 20 parks with wetlands, wooded areas, gardens, and offering bird watching, hiking, biking, canoeing and kayaking.

Working with partners and stakeholder groups, the Coalition’s mission is to develop Greens Bayou Corridor as: an essential,

attractive

and

well-planned

multi-use waterway; a linear park and trail system; a utility corridor; and a high-capacity cross-country transit/highway link.

The Coalition also seeks to improve the viability of businesses along the bayou corridor by fostering economic development, minimizing flooding, preserving desirable green space and providing transportation and utility services.

Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce www.houstonnwchamber.org The Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce works to develop successful businesses

and

a

thriving

commu-

nity, on a variety of fronts, including road access projects, legislative issues, connectivity events, workforce develop-

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

SALARY

MOVING FROM HERE

SALARY

Phoenix

61,439

New York City

25,910

Detroit

61,826

Los Angeles

41,996

Austin

61,375

Chicago

50,705

San Francisco

33,401

Las Vegas

54,455

Boston

40,832

Portland

45,498

Denver

53,759

St. Louis

63,697

Miami

52,467

Raleigh

65,105

Pittsburgh

59,757

Cincinnati

64,818

Dallas

61,311

Charleston

58,336

ment projects or economic development initiatives. Membership businesses can expect unique marketing and visibility through the chamber, as well as access to products and customers to help their businesses grow.

In addition to advocating for area business, the Chamber is also interested in maintaining livability and, in the last few years, has hosted, sponsored or supported at least eight different community grass roots initiatives including the Cypress Creek Greenway Case Study, a Livable Center Study Grant and several crime prevention task forces. A key initiative, Grow Northwest is a strategic plan to build upon the community’s successes

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

51

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

and to advance the local economy. Learn more at www.GrowHoustonNW.com North Houston District www.northhouston.org

“

The North Houston District is a dynamic community 15 miles north of downtown Houston and minutes from Bush Intercon-

The Northwest Houston area has a thriving economic sector, with major corporations using the availability of land to build facilities on, providing job opportunities within the area.

”

tinental Airport and the Port of Houston. It is home to some of Houston’s most prominent companies. In fact, more than 100 energy-related companies and thousands of non-energy businesses are located here. The prime location makes the District ideal for companies conducting business locally and around the globe.

With excellent hotels and restaurants, many

The North Houston Association www.north-houston.com The North Houston Association advocates and supports projects and initiatives which advance the business environment

of which have a profound and lasting effect on the economic development of the business climate and community of the area. Building strong alliances with partners, they have been able to achieve milestones like gaining grass roots support

parks, with miles of walking or hiking trails,

and improve the quality of life in North

and a commitment to attracting the best in

Harris and Montgomery counties. Estab-

for the Hardy Toll Road, advocating for

commercial and residential life, the North

lished in 1982, the non-profit organization

the Grand Parkway, establishing the Greens

Houston District works hard to create an

works with its members to consider issues

Bayou Corridor Coalition, developing the

appealing, safe, accessible and green activity

of mobility, education, workforce training,

Aerial Land Use Map, creating a Strategic

center in which to work, live and play.

the environment, and quality of life, all

Mobility Plan and many other endeavors. 

52

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

Harris County

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.

UP

D

Stafford Missouri City

90A

UP

59

LR

Pasadena

288

865

BATTLESHIP TEXAS

South Houston

William P. Hobby Airport

134

225

Deer Park LR

UP

LR

10 UP

330

SAN JACINTO MONUMENT

UP

La Porte

146

Baytown 99

Morgans Point

146

Shoreacres Taylor Johnson Lake Village Space Center El Lago Pearland Clear 2351 Seabrook Lake BRAZORIA Webster Nassau Friendswood Bay 270 146 518 45 3 League 528 City NASA1 8 MILES G A LV E S T O N 8

35

G

k Clear Cree

ton el us ann Ho Ch ip Sh

521

Harris County © Texas Almanac

PTRA

BNSF

Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.

1876

N

FT. BEND PARKWA Y

Retail Sales..............$88,892,139,887

BE

Ferry

on

T

Channelview Free

Galena Park

610

1942

st

R

8

Jacinto City

Barrett Highlands McNair

ve

6

UP

1093

FO

Prop. Value............$472,155,923,085

UP

fa BufBarker Reservoir

Sheldon

CHAMBERS

99

to

u

10

Per Capita Inc......................$55,088

ayou lo B

Ja ci n

o Bay

Barker

Cedar

90

Wages......................$37,346,009,148

n

er

90

UP

Crosby

SHELDON WILDLIFE MGMT AREA

Y

UP Katy

UP Spring Hilshire Vil. 610 Valley Hedwig Hunters Addicks Vil. Creek Vil. Piney Point Vil. Bunker West Hill Vil. University Place Alief 69 Bellaire Southside Place 8

SHELDON LAKE STATE PARK

2100

Lake Houston

v Ri

HOUSTON

Addicks Reservoir

yo u Greens Ba

UP

LR

Unemployed.................................5.3

59

Huffman

Sa

Aldine

Jersey Village

6 529

Civilian labor......................2,279,367

525

HARDY AD TOLL RO

July mean max...........................90.7

8

1960

RT

ek

ss Cre

Cypre

BE

R

LR

1960

Atascocita

George Bush 69 Humble Intercontinental Airport

Cypress

99

LR

nt o

UP

LLE

Jan. mean. min..........................43.4

Kingwood

LR

Klein

6

WA

Rainfall (in.)...............................56.81

LR

290

Spring

2920

rk Fo i st We Jac n Sa

Hockley

99

SF BN

Altitude (ft.).................sea level–310

LR

Tomball

2920 LR

Waller

1485

Ea San st Fork Jacinto

LR

MONTGOMERY

45

Hufsmith

ek

LI

Land area(sq.mi.)..................1,703.5

e Spring Cr

Bay

2978 249

310'

UP

362

al

362 1488

1736

Area (sq.mi.)..........................1,777.5

UP

Change fm 2010........................10.9

UP

Population..........................4,538,028

Cost of Living

0

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

Seattle

152.8

123.8

206.6

127.9 137.6

Tucson

94.9

104.5

76.0

95.8

96.5

126.2

125.1

123.5 136.5 100.3 104.6

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

53

in this section finding a doctor medical moving tips area hospitals

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Northwest 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.

The city of Houston is world-famous for

of Northwest Houston can find family

full-service, integrated health system focused

medical care. At the forefront of advancing

doctors and specialists, as well as neighbor-

on advancing the health of the community.

life sciences, Texas Medical Center is one of

hood emergency clinics that are equipped

For the system’s 5,500 affiliated physicians

the world’s most respected medical centers.

to treat most illnesses, minor injuries and

and 25,000 employees, it means exercising

Each year, TMC receives 10 million patient

other health-related needs. With little or no

uncompromising commitment to deliver

visits. It has 106,000 employees, 50,000 life

waiting, walk-in patients can get a routine

the best health care possible by harnessing

science students and thousands of volun-

physical, school immunizations, and stan-

leading-edge technology and using the safest

teers. It is home to 21 renowned hospitals,

dard screening tests. Some clinics are

methods. For patients, it means having the

14 support organizations, and a myriad of

located within stores or shopping centers

best tools to prevent health problems as

academic and research institutions, and

and have extended hours to accommodate

well as the best chance to regain their health

specialty schools. As the largest medical

their patients.

following an illness or injury. It’s no wonder

busy; a baby is born here every 20 minutes

Recent additions to personal health care

health system to receive both the National

and a surgical procedure begins every three.

options include specialty clinics that treat

Quality Forum’s National Quality Health-

conditions such as smoking cessation and

care Award in 2009 and the 2012 John M.

weight loss. Wellness Centers affiliated with

Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and

hospitals or a physician’s practice frequently

Quality from The Joint Commission and the

offer weight reduction, health management

National Quality Forum, the nation’s guard-

complex in the world with 9200 beds, it is

The dedicated scholars collaborating at the Texas Medical Center have great expertise in cardiovascular disease, cancer, children’s medical

problems,

neuroscience,

strokes,

rehabilitations and other areas. More heart surgeries are performed here than anywhere else in the world. www.texasmedicalcenter.org.

Memo¬rial Hermann is the only Houston

programs and medical spa treatments.

ians of health and safety.

Memorial Hermann www.memorialhermann.org 713-272-1673

One of the largest not-for-profit health

In addition to the most modern and

systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann serves Southeast Texas and the Greater Houston community with 17 hospitals,

in

Advancing Health in Houston - Memo-

including four in the Texas Medical Center, a

the Greater Houston region, residents

rial Hermann has created Houston’s largest,

level I trauma center, a hospital for children,

comprehensive

55

healthcare

facilities

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

55

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES

an orthopedic and spine hospital, and one

Photo courtesy of CHI St. Luke’s Hospital

of the top two rehabilitation hospitals in the United States, along with 10 suburban hospitals and two surgery centers. Building on a strong relationship with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, the system also operates three Heart & Vascular Institute locations; the Mischer Neuroscience Institute at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center; the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute at four locations; Women’s Memorial Hermann.

Additionally, the system operates Memorial Hermann Life Flight® – the largest and busiest air ambulance service in the United States; the Prevention and Recovery Center for chemical dependency treatment; and a comprehensive array of home health services, rehabilitation centers, outpatient imaging and

locations, virtual care and easy-to-use online

the first and only hospital in the county to

laboratory services including The University

tools for managing your health.

earn the prestigious international recognition

of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Breast

as a Baby-Friendly® designated birth facility

Care with Memorial Hermann. The system’s

THE WOODLANDS - Since 1985, Memo-

by Baby-Friendly USA, Inc. for providing

comprehensive ambulatory care network

rial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital has

optimal care for breastfeeding mothers and

also includes Memorial Hermann Urgent

provided high quality, patient- and family-cen-

their babies. Memorial Hermann The Wood-

Care and Memorial Hermann Convenient

tered care. It is the first and only hospi¬tal in

lands has 351 beds and is a primary stroke

Care Centers. Everyday Well.com connects

Montgomery County to be granted Magnet®

center and part of a citywide, accredited Chest

you to Memorial Hermann’s comprehensive

status for nursing excellence by the American

Pain Center network and features open-heart

network of care, with convenient physical

Nurses Credentialing Center. And it is also

surgery, complex arrhythmia services and cardiac rehabilitation. It is home to a Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports Medicine

FINDING A DOCTOR Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also requires finding the grocery store you like, the schools your kids will attend - and the healthcare practitioners that fit the needs of your family. The following is list of local and national physician resource, including the American Medical Association - 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

Institute and TIRR Memorial Hermann rehabilitation services.

CYPRESS - Located in the dynamic and fastgrowing Cypress area, Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital brings the expertise of the Memorial Hermann Health System, including the region’s top medical specialists, to families in the Cypress and Northwest Houston area.

Their affiliated, board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals employ advanced medical equipment and state-of-the-art technology to address the community’s healthcare needs, from routine outpatient visits to complex inpatient procedures.

Opened in Spring 2017, the 81-bed Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital offers eight operating

rooms,

16-bed

intensive

care

unit, labor & delivery, NICU, cardiac catheterization lab, a Life Flight helipad and 24-hour, state-of-the-art emergency care by

56

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

board-certified emergency medicine physi-

CHI St. Luke’s Health is committed to

Make an appointment with one of their

cians affiliated with Memorial Hermann and

excellence and compassion in caring for

experienced physicians at ApptASAP.org

nurses specially trained in emergency care.

the whole person. Health is not merely the

On the same campus, a new 125,000-square-

absence of illness or the presence of physical

foot medical plaza houses physician offices

well-being, and their team of experienced,

for a variety of affiliated specialists as well as

compassionate physicians and staff under-

adult and pediatric health care provided by

stands that it’s the result of achieving a

Memorial Hermann Medical Group.

The

balance between the elements found within

medical plaza also includes outpatient lab and

each patient and in the greater communities

comprehensive imaging services (including

as a whole.

mammography by MD Anderson Breast Care with Memorial Hermann) and sports medi-

As part of the CHI St. Luke’s Health

cine and rehabilitation.

System, they are backed by one of the

Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital is located at 27800 Northwest Freeway (Hwy 290), Cypress, Texas, 77433, east of the Grand Parkway between Mueschke and Mason.

CHI St. Luke’s Hospital at The Vintage www.stlukesvintage.com • 832-534-5000 CHI St. Luke’s Health is dedicated to a mission of enhancing health through highquality, cost-effective care. In conjunction with physicians and community partners,

nation’s top health care providers to bring you access to incredible hospitals and emergency centers throughout the Greater Houston area and the expertise of

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital www.houstonmethodist.org/willowbrook 281-737-2500 Leading Medicine in Northwest Houston Since opening in December 2000, Houston Methodist

Willowbrook

Hospital

has

expanded in Northwest Houston to serve the comprehensive health care needs of the community. The 312-licensed bed, not-forprofit, faith-based hospital, which is part of Houston Methodist, has a medical staff which exceeds 900 physicians.

the most compassionate caregivers in the

“Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital

region. A reason the families here choose

is expanding our footprint in the community

CHI St. Luke’s Health—The Vintage to

and as we continue to grow, we have added

keep them healthy.

services such as the Houston Methodist Sleep Center at Willowbrook, a neurosci-

CHI St. Luke’s Hospital at The Vintage,

ence unit and two freestanding emergency

20171 Chasewood Park Drive, Houston, TX

care centers in Spring and Cypress,” says

77070 / 832-534-5000 / stlukesvintage.com

Keith Barber, chief executive officer at

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

57

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital and senior vice president of Houston Methodist. “Our goal is to ensure that patients receive compassionate, innovative and quality care,” says Barber.

The hospital’s include:

comprehensive

services

• Award-winning Maternity Services with a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit staffed on-site by neonatologists and nurse practitioners from Texas Children’s Hospital.

• Comprehensive Cancer Center including a new Breast Care Center and an Infusion Center for outpatient chemotherapy that supports the hospital’s overall cancer program.

MOVING MEDICAL TIPS 1 2 3

If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in this publication to get information.

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.

If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of the records of each of your family members to your new doctor.

4

If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/dentist to make copies of pertinent records of all your family members for you to take with you. Pack these records in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency.

5

It is extremely important that you get the immunization records for your children before you move. You cannot enroll your children in local schools without these records. You will also need certified copies of your children’s birth certificates as well as the addresses of your children’s former schools.

6

If you are a member of a healthcare HMO/PPO plan, or have a prescription drug card, be sure to notify the company of your moving plans. The insurance company should be able to provide you with a list of physicians/ healthcare facilities in the area.

7

Pack an emergency first aid kit to take en route to your new home.

Items such as bandages, thermometer, pain killers or aspirin, antihistamine, first-aid ointment, tweezers and decongestant can come in handy.

58

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

• Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine: Comprehensive orthopedic, sports medicine, spine and rehabilitation centers with 10 orthopedic physicians, located in the Centerfield Building on the hospital campus.

• Our comprehensive Sports Performance services include sports nutrition, strength & conditioning, sports psychology and exercise physiology.

• Houston Methodist Spine Center at Willowbrook for treatment of back and neck problems.

• Robotic Surgery Program with two robotic surgical systems and the most robotically trained physicians in Northwest Houston.

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital has been rated “A” for Hospital Safety from The Leapfrog Group for three years in a row, and recognized as a Best Regional Hospital in the Houston Metropolitan Area by U.S. News & World Report, named a Magnet recognized health care facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program®, named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals® by Truven Health Analytics, and the Intensive Care Unit and Surgical Intensive Care Unit earned the Silver-Level Beacon Award for Clinical Excellence. Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital is located at 18220 State Highway 249, Houston, TX 77070. 

A TRADITION OF INNOVATION AND COMPASSION We are honored to serve the growing Northwest Houston communities by providing compassionate, world-class care close to you.

Our specialties and services include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Accredited Chest Pain Center Breast Care Center Cancer Center Cardiology Cardiovascular Surgery Childbirth Center Colon and Rectal Surgery Emergency Medicine Gastroenterology General Surgery Imaging and Diagnostic Services Infusion Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Neurology Neurosurgery Obstetrics and Gynecology Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery • Radiation Oncology • Rehabilitation Services • Robotic Surgery • Sleep Center • Spine Center • Sports Performance Services • Stroke Care • Urogynecology • Urology • Vein Clinic • Weight Loss Surgery • Wellness Center • Women’s Services • Wound Care

Visit houstonmethodist.org/willowbrook or call 281.737.2500 to learn more or to find a physician.

18220 State Hwy. 249 | Houston, TX 77070

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

59

in this section continuing care retirement communities senior housing options assisted living communities

60

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

ACTIVE ADULTS

+ senior living The times of aging in America, they are changing – and many senior Northwest Houston residents couldn’t be happier about it. Long gone are the days of mandatory retirement at age 65, and with it, the idea that one’s golden years were to be spent simply sitting quietly on the front porch in a rocking chair as they watch life go by.

More and more seniors don’t see themselves as seniors (unless they get a discount if they do). Increasingly, the years after age 65 are more numerous and more active. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Americans’ life expectancy in 2000 was 76.8 years; in 2014, it was 78.8.

One of the reasons is that Americans are healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor and emergency room less, spend fewer days in hospital and exercise more.

Turning 65 no longer means receiving a watch, a party and hearty congratulations for years spent at a job, only to be put out

to pasture to watch the rest of the world go by. Today’s seniors now have many options, dreams and plans, and very often, the energy to pursue them. Of course, people with more leisure time can perfect their golf swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas, but these days, they’re also choosing to go back to school, learn a new language, run marathons, volunteer, or take up a new hobby. More people are opting to burn out rather than rust out.

And the options for living and playing are also evolving to meet the changing demands of this growing group of people.

From upscale retirement communities

that offer an array of housing, activity, exercise and social options, to full-care facilities that care for people with mental and physical disabilities, and every-thing in between, there is a senior living solution to fit every desire and need.

TAKING STOCK In order to narrow your options in what could be an overwhelming list of choices and to help you choose the best one, put some time into the stock-taking process by taking a personal inventory of living expenses, health, interests and expectations.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

61

A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G

Budget Inventory: what does it cost to live every month? What are you spending on housing or rental; how much does it cost to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a mortgage on it? What other expenses do you have? Food, entertainment, transportation? What medical expenses do you currently have, or do you anticipate? Be as thorough and honest in your assessment as you can, so that you can make an informed decision.

Lifestyle inventory: How do you want to live? Need more time for golf ? You might want to live on a course. What to do some volunteering? You may decide to move closer to the city, school or community center. Want to make new friends? Many senior’s communities are set up to allow you to do just that.

Again, the more careful you are in your analysis, the more prepared you will be to make the right decisions.

SHOULD YOU STAY OR SHOULD YOU GO? STAY PUT You can retire in your own home by withdrawing some of the equity you’ve built up with a reverse mortgage, which is a special type of home loan that lets you convert a

62

portion of the equity in your home into

• Would there be any money left over from

cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department

the purchase of a new home that could be

of

safely invested?

Housing and Urban Development,

HUD offers this federally insured private loan which can give you greater financial security to supplement social security, meet unex-pected medical expenses, make home improvements and more. And, unlike a traditional home equity loan or second mortgage, you usually do not have to repay the loan until you no longer use the home as your principal residence, sell it, or pass away. The money from a reverse loan may be paid out in a variety of ways: a lump sum, a regular monthly cash advance, as a credit line account, or any combination of the above. To qualify, you must be at least 62, and own the home outright or carry a

• What are the options for downsizing into a less expensive home, renting an apartment, or moving into an assisted living or alternative senior housing situation?

(Visit AARP’s website and use their Reverse Mortgage Calculator: www.aarp.com).

PACK IT UP But maybe, it’s time for a move. Perhaps the 30-year family home is too big and you’re rattling around it like a marble in a shoe box, or you’re tired of the outdoor upkeep, or you want to be closer to the

mortgage small enough to be paid off by the

place or activities that you now have time

proceeds; there are no income or credit qual-

for. Before you choose your new home,

ifications or monthly payments, but you are

once again, take stock. Be realistic about

responsible to pay the annual taxes, property

your situation, your expectations, your

insurance and maintenance of the home.

finances and your health. It’s as important to consider ac-cess to medical doctors

The best way to determine if a reverse mort-

and facilities as it is to think about fun

gage is the best fit for your retirement plan is

and leisure pursuits. Make sure the new

to honestly assess the following:

community is one that you will enjoy, that

• How much would the home sell for on

it has convenient amenities and access to

today’s market?

• What would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home?

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

services, and that a new house will be a good investment. If you’re still active, you might want to be among folk just like you.

Think carefully before making decisions

residents? For ultimate peace of mind, you

carries the least risk, providing unlim-

that will determine your happiness in the

might opt to rent a home under a short-term

ited long-term nursing care at little

years to come.

agreement at first to make sure the commu-

or no additional cost for as long as

nity provides for your needs and lives up to

nursing-home

ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES

your expectations.

A modified-care contract comes with

If you’re a healthy, independent senior,

long-term health or nursing services

you may find that you simply want to live

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES

in a community where you can enjoy the

A Continuing Care Retirement Commu-

the senior or guardian is responsible

company of others and your own personal

nity (CCRC) offers care in a residential

for additional costs. A fee-for-service

interests. Moving to an active independent

facility for seniors, with a full menu of

contract offers an a-la-carte approach,

liv-ing retirement community might be the

services and living situations. Residents

best fit for your budget and lifestyle, where

requiring that residents pay separately

may go from independent living, to

options include renting an apartment or

assisted living and nursing home care,

for all health and medical services

purchasing a property.

depending on their individual, changing

Many active senior communities have information packets and offer tours. A personal

A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facili-

visit will give valuable, firsthand information

ties or Communities) generally offers

and an opportunity to meet current residents

a contract that covers a continuum

who can share their own experi-ence and

of care, including access to housing,

insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness

services, and health care for more than

programs, organized activities, sporting

one year, or the balance of one’s life.

options, and social opportunities. Other

It is a wise idea to move into a CCRC

day-to-day living arrangements should also

sooner rather than later, as most require

be considered, such as shopping centers and

that new residents live independently

grocery stores within easy walking distance,

when they first move in.

the

availability

of

are

required.

medium financial risk, and provides

needs and abilities.

and

services

transportation

services. Where is the community located

There is a range of contract options

in proximity to major health care providers?

offered by CCRCs. An extensive-care

What security measures are in place for

contract is the most expensive, but

for a specified period, after which,

provided by the facility, as well as longterm care.

Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus monthly fees thereafter. Some require an equity agreement where seniors

purchase

a

condominium

or co-op apartment on the property instead of paying an entrance fee. Less commonly found are CCRC contracts where residents pay monthly fees only.

Before signing a contract with a CCRC, conduct a thorough review of the facility’s services, operations and finances, and determine if it is appropriate to your needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also a good idea to ask a family attorney or accountant to review the contract. If

SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS “The time to begin thinking about a retirement community isn’t when you have to have it,” advises Terry Martinez with Parmer Woods Retirement & Assisted Living. “Think about it when you don’t need it. There are a wide variety of alternatives available for every level of activity, health and need.

Today’s Baby Boomers who are in or approaching their retirement years are taking advantage of active retirement communities where residents are vigorous and involved.

Or, they are finding senior-care housing communities that em-ploy medically trained staff, provide housekeeping and meal preparation services, as well as transportation for shopping, medical visits, and social outing. Or, they are seeking a more physically and medically sup-portive environment.

Whatever choice is best for you, it’s out there, but should be considered without stress.

And the prices vary. “When you’re trying to stay within a particular price range, you want to match your living requirements with services offered,” says Martinez. “If you are very independent and don’t need assistance – just want a meal plan, for example – then the associated costs are much less than for someone who requires more care.” Also, Medicare generally does not pay for long-term care, only for services deemed medically necessary that are provided by a skilled facility or home health care center. Medicaid will pay for certain health services and nursing home care for older people with low incomes and limited assets.

The place you choose should facilitate life at a level of independence that is comfortable for you or for your loved one.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

63

A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G

dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities.

As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions: • Are the grounds well maintained?

• Is the staff friendly?

• Are the residents properly dressed?

• What activities are available?

ALCs that competently provide required services without forgetting about little details will give the same care and attention to residents.

NURSING CARE FACILITIES

the contract is found agreeable, ask to spend at least one night and two days at the facility, to test drive the community and make sure it is a good fit. Some points to consider include: • A re pets allowed in your residence?

• What social, recreational and cultural activities are offered?

A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a state licensed, private-care facility that provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home.

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES An Assisted Living Community (ALC) bridges the gap for those who need assistance with daily activities a nursing home might offer, but wish to live independently.

Residents in an ALC are unable to live com-pletely by themselves, but don’t need

• I s food prepared onsite? If so, how is it?

constant supervision. An ALC offers its

• Are there fitness facilities onsite?

dressing,

residents assistance with eat-ing, bathing, laundry,

housekeeping,

and

keeping track of medications. They often

• Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable?

have centers for medical care, but typically

• What healthcare and personal care services are available?

• What preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations?

do not offer the extensive medical services provided by a nursing home. An ALC is not a substitute for a nursing home, but rather is a stepping stone between complete

independence

and

services

provided by a nursing home.

• I s there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided?

CCRCs can be anything from high-rise apartments,

to

cottages,

townhouses

Often, an ALC will create an individualized service plan for seniors upon admission, detailing personal services that will be provided. This plan is then peri-

or single-family homes, and are an

odically reviewed and updated to ensure

excellent option for those who are inde-

changing needs are met.

pendent and in good health, but might

ALC may be studios or one-bedroom

need some assistance with daily living

apartments with small kitchen facilities.

needs or require skilled nursing care.

Typically, ALC housing units have group

64

It pays to shop around when selecting an NCF. Consult with a trusted doctor or health care practitioner for recommendations of nearby facilities. Plan on visiting at least four or five area facilities, and make an ap-pointment with the administrator or director of nursing. Check to make sure that information provided is consistent with information gathered during the facility tour. The home should have clean floors and smell fresh.

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

Housing in an

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

Ask to see the compliance survey report prepared by the State of Texas. It will list deficiencies found in resident care during routine inspections, and the facility’s effort to correct them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must make this and other survey compliance reports available upon request, as well as a well-lit place for review.

Another option available is to contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) at 800-458-9858 or www.dads.state.tx.us.

While state law prohibits agency employees from recommending one facility over another, they can answer the following recommended questions about any facility:

• Have there been any proposed license terminations in the past two years?

• How many complaints have been filed in the past year?

• How many complaints in the past year have been found to be valid?

• How many deficiencies have been cited in the past two years?

• How many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years?

• When did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit?

• Has the owner of this facility had other facilities recommended for license termination?

The answers to these questions, combined with observations and impressions made during facility tours and staff interviews will allow you to select the right nursing care facility.

ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES

early onset symptoms, because of the progres-

resident’s medical needs, but also the needs

sive nature of the disease, it may become

of the entire family with social services,

necessary to transfer the resident to another

professional consultations and individu-

facility that can give the right level of service.

alized treatment reviews, all set within a calm, soothing environment that is sensi-

Seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia need specialized care.

Facilities specializing in the care of Alzhei-

tive to the needs of the patient. Please visit

While some Assisted Living Communities offer

mer’s and dementia patients should provide

www.agingcare.com for additional infor-

services and separate facilities for residents with

a treatment plan that considers not only the

mation on care for the elderly. 

LOOKING FOR HOMES JUST GOT EASIER…

Search more than 8 million properties

Ask Your REALTOR®

HOMES And RENTALS HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

65

66

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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PLACES OF

WORSHIP

There are a lot of decisions to make when establishing your new life in a new city, and one of the most important might be where to worship. Your new neighbors might be a great source of information: “Have y’all found a church yet?” they’ll say and they will be happy to help with directions and introductions.

And while it’s possible to find God (or Allah or Budda) in other places, church offers a community of like-minded and similar-spirited people to build relationships with. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship can also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, even groups with common interests to join. If you’re looking to settle in and get to know new friends, a congregation might be the perfect group in which to find them.

Luckily in Houston, every spiritual need can be met. It is the most diverse city in the country and home to a variety of religious traditions – a reflection of the rich, international cultural mosaic that makes up the city. It is also home to what is by far the biggest church congregation in America – Lakewood Church, a nondenominational charismatic Christian megachurch, which has an average weekly attendance of more than 52,000.

But there are many options of all sizes and styles, and West Houston offers a variety of churches ranging from Non-Denominational to Methodist to Baptist. Not to be overlooked, there are also several mosques and synagogues. All places of worship should allow a haven for people to come together and connect over their common beliefs. If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should be able to easily find your spiritual home here.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

67

PLACES OF WORSHIP

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

St. Dunstan’s Episcopal

saintdunstans.org

Faith Chapel

myfaithchapel.org

St. Mary’s Episcopal

stmaryscypress.org

Harvest Family Church

harvestfamilychurch.tv

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

Living Waters Assembly of God

livingwatersonline.org

Christ Covenant Church

BAPTIST

christcov.net

ISLAM

Champion Forest Baptist

championforest.org

Cypress Islamic Center

cypressislamiccenter.org

Clay Road Baptist Church

gocrbc.org

Masjid Elfaroug Islamic Center

elfarouq.org

Copperfield Church

copperfieldchurch.com

JEWISH

Cornerstone Baptist Church

cstonebaptist.org

Congregation Jewish

cfccnet.org

Cypress Creek Baptist

cypresscreekbaptist. church

Community North

cjcn.org

Fairfield Baptist Church

fairfieldbaptist.com

First Baptist Church of Tomball

fbctomball.org

First Baptist Church of Cypress

fbccypress.org

Houston Northwest Church

hnw.org

Jersey Village Baptist

jvbc.org

Louetta Road Baptist

louettaroadbaptist.net

The MET

themetonline.org

North Oaks Baptist

northoaksbaptist.com

NW Chinese Baptist

nw-cbc.org

Westway Baptist

westwaybaptist.org

Wildewood Baptist

wildewoodbc.org

CATHOLIC Christ The Good Shepherd

cgsccdogh.org

Christ The Redeemer

ctrcc.com

St. Matthias the Apostle Catholic Church

st-matthias.net

Prince of Peace

pophouston.org

St. Anne Community

stanne-tomball.org

St. Edward Catholic

saintedward.org

St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic

seascatholic.org

St. Matthew the Evangelist

stmatthewhou.org

St. Maximilian Koble Catholic

stmaximilian.org

St. Ignatius Loyola

ignatiusloyola.org

CHRISTIAN

LUTHERAN Epiphany Lutheran

elcsh.org

Hosanna Lutheran Church

welcometohosanna.com

Kinsmen Lutheran Church

kinsmenlutheran.org

Messiah Lutheran

messiahlc.org

Prince of Peace Lutheran

popcopperfield.org

Resurrection Lutheran Church

churchthatcares.org

Salem Lutheran Church

salem4u.com

St. John Lutheran

stjohn-lutheran.net

St. Paul Lutheran

saintpaulmagnolia.org

St. Timothy Lutheran

thirstyforjesus.org

Trinity Lutheran Church

TrinityKlein.org

METHODIST Cornerstone United Methodist

cornerstoneumc.org

Cypress United Methodist

cypressunited.org

Foundry United Methodist

foundrychurch.org

John Wesley Methodist

jwumc.org

Klein United Methodist Church

kleinumc.org

Lakewood United Methodist

lakewoodumc.org

Magnolia United Methodist Church

magnoliaumc.org

Spring Woods United Methodist

springwoodsumc.org

The Woodlands United Methodist Church

thewoodlandsumc.org

Wildwood United Methodist

wildwood-umc.org

Cy-Fair Christian Church

cfccnet.org

NON DENOMINATIONAL

Cypress Creek Christian

cypresscreek.cc

Calvary Community Church

CHURCH OF CHRIST

calvaryhouston.com

ORTHODOX

Bammel Church of Christ

bammel.org

St. Anthony Orthodox Christian

stanthonythegreat.org

Church of Christ in Champions

championschurch.org

St. Sava Serbian Orthodox

stsavahouston.org

Cy-Fair Church of Christ

cyfairchurch.org

PRESBYTERIAN

Jersey Village Church of Christ

jvcoc.org

Heritage Presbyterian Church

heritagepresbyterian.org

Kleinwood Church of Christ

kleinwood.com

Northwoods Presbyterian

northwoods.org

Magnolia Church of Christ

magnoliachurchofchrist.com

Windwood Presbyterian

newwindwoodpc.org

West Houston Church of Christ

westhoustonchurch.org

OTHERS

EPISCOPAL

Hope City Church

yourhopecity.com

Good Shepherd Tomball

goodshepherdtomball.org

Living Stones Church Magnolia

livingstones-church.com

St. Aidan’s Episcopal

aidanschurch.org

Woodlands Church

wc.org

St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal

stcuthbert.org

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

• In the community, they share God’s love

The Woodlands United

for others; not just in words but in tangible

Methodist Church

in Tomball and Houston through

actions. They believe that God’s grace is so

www.thewoodlandsumc.org

partnership organizations such as

amazing that it compels one to respond and

281-297-5900

Love146, supporting their resources for

boldly demonstrate and share His message

more influence to effect change.

of hope and grace with those around.

The Woodlands United Methodist Church (TWUMC) is a 12,000-member congrega-

Because they believe in family leadership,

For the Sunday morning schedule and

tion located in suburban Houston, Texas.

they offer specific parent and children

other programming, visit Salem’s website at

TWUMC is an evangelical Methodist

mission and outreach opportunities to

www.salem4u.com or in person at 22601

church offering 10 live worship services

help live generous lives and to care deeply

Lutheran Church Road, Tomball Texas 77377. 

each week in three unique worship styles across

two

campuses.

Each

Sunday,

TWUMC webcasts three services (one in each style) live online. TWUMC offers dynamic Christian programs for all ages, placing special emphasis on discipleship, missions and outreach. TWUMC also runs an accredited preschool, a private elementary school, and a licensed counseling center. The TWUMC mission is to “Win people to Jesus Christ, disciple them in faith, and help those in need.” Learn more at www.thewoodlandsumc.org

MAIN CAMPUS SERVICE TIMES Traditional Worship - Sunday 8:30, 9:35 and 11:00 a.m.

Harvest Contemporary Worship - Sunday 9:30 and 11:00 a.m., 5:30 p.m Loft Modern Worship - Saturday 6:00 p.m. / Sunday: 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

WOODFOREST CAMPUS SERVICE TIMES The Church at Woodforest Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Salem Lutheran Church www.salem4u.com • 281-351-8223 Salem Lutheran Church, established in 1851, has a solid foundation of pioneering-servanthood to boldly impact their community and world with the grace, hope and love of Jesus Christ.

Salem is a place where people can and

WE’RE BETTER

TOGETHER. Life’s too hard to go it alone.

Come live life as it was really intended: in a supportive community.

Each week we meet to worship God, serve others and connect through small groups.

Join us as we find meaning and purpose together at The Woodlands United Methodist Church.

do leverage their time and resources to courageously influence our world with the timeless truth of God’s Word.

• I nternationally, they share this hope in Kenya, Honduras, Slovakia, Mexico, Hong Kong and beyond.

2200 Lake Woodlands Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281.297.5900 | thewoodlandsumc.org

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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in this section parks and attractions art and culture golf and sports calendar of events

70

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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LEISURE & RECREATION

In Northwest Houston, you’re only minutes away from a world-class culinary, arts and cultural scene. Houston’s live theater, music, and opera are highly regarded; and the fine arts, both classic and contemporary, are on display at the many galleries and museums. There are sporting events year round and the city’s parks welcome picnickers, hikers, bicyclists, boaters and pets.

THE ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

and has been called “the Best Gem of a

destinations. The Woodlands Mall is home

Theatre” by the Houston Press. The Acting

to some 200 retailers, boutique shopping

The arts reach deep into the fabric of life in Northwest Houston.

Academy is a friendly, supportive environ-

can be found at Town Center and “Main

ment that offers classes in performance and

Street-styled” Market Street is a fun place

theatre skills, like acting, singing and dance.

to shop, dine or have fun. Connecting

Visit www.stageworkshouston.org.

them is the Woodlands Waterway, where

The Cypress Creek Foundation for the arts (FACE) provides cultural arts programming for the community. Located in Spring, it encompasses the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts, Barbara Bush County Library, Centrum, and other amenities. Concerts presented here feature a wide variety of national and international performing artists, large and small ensembles, solo performers and multi-cultural attractions. FACE also offers educational opportunities for all ages along with free family and children’s concerts. www.CypressCreekFACE.org.

Stageworks Theatre enriches the Northwest community through family-friendly theatre and arts education. Each season, Stageworks produces eight theatrical works that reflect high artistic quality and cultural diversity.

The Garza Mainstage seats about 150 people

people can hop aboard the Waterway Playhouse 1960 has been raising the curtain in

Cruiser or the free Waterway Trolley.

northwest Houston since 1973 and is an all-volunteer community theatre. It gives kids of all

To see some of today’s top enter-

ages a chance to be seen on stage and offers

tainers, take in a performance at the

productions all year. Visit www.ph1960.com.

16,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, or

Symphony North is a community based

enjoy one of the many free outdoor

orchestra composed of some 80 classical

concerts in the park. Kayakers can

musicians whose day jobs include engi-

paddle on Lake Woodlands, or up the

neer, homemaker, teacher and others. They

Woodlands and there are many parks,

offer five concerts throughout the year and

playgrounds, trails and places to relax

sponsor a yearly Young Artist Competition,

throughout the community.

the winners of which join the symphony in a concerto. Go to www.symphonynorth.org.

Wonderful

hotel

options

abound

in

the Woodlands, including The Wood-

THE WOODLANDS

lands Resort, The Hyatt Market Street

The Woodlands is one of the region’s

or The Woodlands Waterway Marriott.

most popular shopping and entertainment

www.visitthewoodlands.com. 

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

71

L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

PARKS & ATRACTIONS CYPRESS CREEK GREENWAY The Cypress Creek Greenway Project is underway and will ultimately create a continuous 40-mile greenbelt along Cypress and Little Cypress Creeks. The greenway will feature a multi-use trail system that will pass through parks and link to trails that extend into communities. In addition, the Bayou Preservation Association (BPA) is leading the effort on Cypress Creek to develop a paddling trail that will extend 30 miles.

100 ACRE WOOD PRESERVE 100 Acre Wood Preserve contains nearly two miles of trails through rolling, forested terrain that connect with the nine-mile Cypress Creek Mountain Bike trail system in northwest Harris County. The preserve currently features a one-mile, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible paved trunk line trail that extends from the existing Cypresswood Hike & Bike Trail at Cypress Creek and Jones Road to the YMCA facility at SH 249.

BANE PARK Bane Park is a 18.2-acre facility with barbecue grills, picnic pavilions, picnic tables, two lighted ball fields, a five-acre wheelchair-accessible fishing lake, gazebo, horseshoe pits, paved walking trail, playground, rock climbing wall, sand volleyball court, splash pad, and rest room facilities.

BURROUGHS PARK Experience the lush landscape, winding trails, and lakefront views at this 320-acre splendid park in Tomball. Amenities at this facility include sports fields, a seven-acre fishing lake, five playgrounds, over eight miles of nature trails, picnic areas, an observation deck and boardwalk, rest room facilities, a dog park, and an award-winning barbecue pavilion that seats over 250 people.

COLLINS PARK Collins Park is a 55-acre facility with five lighted softball fields, four lighted baseball fields, one unlighted soccer field, one sand volleyball court, two playgrounds, a skate park, nature trails, picnic tables,

72

barbecue grills, rest room facilities, a canoe launch, and limited access to fishing along Cypress Creek.

DENNIS JOHNSTON PARK Dennis Johnston Park is a 45-acre facility with a pavilion and picnic tables, a small pond, pergola, walking trails, a butterfly and humingbird garden, and access to Spring Creek. Also, the park is home to Big Stone Lodge, which is a shared use facility that serves as the Parks Department administrative headquarters and a Precinct 4 community center.

DOSS PARK Doss Park is a 33-acre facility with five lighted softball fields, two lighted tennis courts, three pavilions, batting cages, picnic tables, barbecue grills, a playground, walking trails, and rest room facilities.

JESSE H. JONES PARK & NATURE CENTER Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is a premier 312-acre Harris County Precinct 4 nature preserve open daily to visitors free of charge. The park features a variety of plant and wildlife species, white sand beaches along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs with century-old cypress trees, and a pristine floodplain located in a hardwood and pine forest. All features are accessible by over eight miles of paved, handicap-friendly pedestrian trails and several unpaved primitive trails. The Spring Creek Greenway, with over 12 miles of paved trail system along Spring Creek, is also accessible from the park’s Judy Overby Bell Trail.

KICKERILLO-MISCHER PRESERVE Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve is an 80-acre property featuring Marshall Lake, which spans approximately 40 acres, plus a staff building, paved roads and parking lots, restroom facilities, and 1.7 miles of trails.

LINDSAY/LYONS PARK AND SPORTS COMPLEX Lindsay/Lyons Park and Sports Complex is a 136-acre facility with 10 lighted baseball fields and four lighted softball fields, two

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

lighted football fields, 18 unlighted soccer fields, two lighted soccer fields, a barbecue pavilion, two playgrounds (including one all-inclusive playground and rest room facility for children of all physical abilities), picnic tables, barbecue grills, rest room facilities, and a concession stand with a pavilion.

MERCER BOTANIC GARDENS The arboretum and botanic gardens are divided by Aldine Westfield Road. On the east side is the botanic gardens where over 20 acres of beautifully maintained gardens feature bamboo, color displays, daylilies, endangered species, ferns, gingers, herbs, tropicals, to name a few. The east side also has an extensive walking trail system, a Remembrance Walk for memorials and honorariums, ponds, a visitors’ center, courtyard plaza, plus much more.

MEYER PARK Meyer Park is a 180-acre facility with 26 soccer fields (ten are lighted), two unlighted softball fields, a basketball court, barbecue pavilion, gazebo, paved trails, nature trails, duck pond*, a three-acre fishing lake, picnic tables, barbecue grills, two age-specific playgrounds, 15 exercise stations, recycling bins, and rest room facilities.

MATZKE PARK Matzke Park, a 19.4-acre facility, includes a multiuse trail with water fountains, rest room facilities, one cricket field, an all-inclusive barrier-free playground, two picnic pavilions, one gazebo, and a butterfly and sensory garden.

SPRING CREEK GREENWAY Explore over 12 miles of natural forests and white sandy beaches along the creek from Harris County Precinct 4’s Dennis Johnston Park in Spring, Texas to Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center in Humble, Texas. Along the way, stop in for a picnic by Hart Lake at the 380-acre Pundt Park or discover local wildlife and plant species at the 120-acre Stahl Preserve.

Also nestled between Pundt Park and Jones Park is Carter Park, a 115-acre facility featuring a canoe launch, a 12-lane archery shooting range with Olympic-level target distances, and nature trails for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.

NORTHWEST HOUSTON & SURROUNDING AREA ATRACTIONS

Photo courtesy of Schlitterbahn Galveston

BAYOU BEND COLLECTION & GARDENS Bayou Bend, the magnificent home of Miss Ima Hogg, is best known for her superb collection of American decorative arts, innovative architecture, and breathtaking gardens. The heavily wooded 14 acres (5.7 ha) along Buffalo Bayou include eight formal gardens. Three of the gardens are named for a statue of a goddess or muse displayed in the garden, Clio, Diana and Euturpe. www.mfah.org/visit/ bayou-bend-collection-and-gardens

DISCOVERY GREEN Since it opened in 2008, this 12-acre downtown park has been a hit with Houstonians who enjoy its restaurants, public art displays, dog parks, lakes, and seasonal events including the holiday ice rink. More than 1.2 million visitors come to more than 600 events at Discovery Green each year, including movies in the park, concerts and fitness programs. www.discoverygreen.com

HERMANN PARK Arguably Houston’s “Central Park,” this 445-acre park wedged between the Museum District and Medical Center celebrated its 100th birthday in 2014 with a major facelift and the new McGovern Centennial

Photo courtesy of The Houston Zoo

Gardens, featuring 15 acres of rose gardens, an interactive family garden, a 30-foot garden mount, and a sculpture promenade.

Hermann Park is also home to the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Miller Outdoor Theater, a Japanese Garden, train and pedal boats, and a golf course. www.hermannpark.org

provides engaging animal experiences for visitors in multiple seasonal and permanent attractions, like holiday Zoo Lights and the new Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit. The Houston Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive. For ticket information call 713-533-6500 or visit houstonzoo.org

HOUSTON ARBORETUM & NATURE CENTER

MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE

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 classes and visit the Discovery Room and the Nature Shop at the Nature Shop.

Visit www.houstonarboretum.org

HOUSTON ZOO Aiming to be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife, The Houston Zoo cares for over 6,000 animals, even educating some. Each year, over 2 million guests are enchanted, educated, and inspired as they experience the incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. With exemplary animal care in mind, the Zoo

Since 1923, Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park has been Houston’s venue for free outdoor performances. This remarkable facility with its free highquality programs is unique in the US. It is the only proscenium theatre in the country that offers an artistically excellent, culturally diverse eight month season of performances totally free of charge to the public. www.milleroutdoortheatre.com

MCGOVERN CENTENNIAL GARDENS & CHERIE FLORES GARDEN PAVILION The McGovern Centennial Gardens is home to a diverse collection of gardens including an arid garden, a rose garden, a woodland garden, an interactive family garden, and more. You can get a bird’s-eye view of it all by walking the spiral path to the top of a 30-foot mount. www.hermannpark.org

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73

Hermann Park - Photo courtesy of GHCVB

MOODY GARDENS

the summer season the park offers over 35

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 Center for an ideal getaway. Visit www.moodygardens.org or 800-582-4673.

amazing rides and attractions. The Heated

PORT OF HOUSTON BOAT TOUR

experiences to visitors. In addition to a full-

The Port of Houston offers free, 90-minute round-trip, educational cruises along the Houston Ship Channel. Embarking from the port’s Sam Houston Landing, visiting sightseers can enjoy passing views of international cargo vessels, and operations at the port’s Turning Basin Terminal. Measuring 95 feet in length and 24 feet in width, the boat carries a maximum capacity of 100 passengers, with air-conditioned lounge seating and additional standing room on the boat’s rear deck. 713-670-2416

can use computer trainers to perform opera-

Indoor Season, October through mid-April, features more than a dozen heated attractions in a tropical, heated indoor oasis. www.schlitterbahn.com

SPACE CENTER HOUSTON Space Center Houston, a $70-million, 183,000

square-foot

entertainment

and

educational complex designed by Disney Imagineering, offers hands-on, space-related size reproduction of the space shuttle, guests tions 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 scientists and mission specialists at work and in training via live video hookups. The theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature space flight films. Exhibits include thousands of space artifacts, the Skylab space station and the largest collection of moon rocks on display anywhere on earth. A

Photo courtesy of Sam Houston Race Park

SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK

60-minute tram tour of the JSC complex is

Sam Houston Race Park is one of Houston’s premier racing, dining and entertainment destinations, located just 15 minutes from Downtown. Sam Houston Race Park have a variety of exciting sports and entertainment in addition to live horse racing as well.

The Park features two major racing seasons – Thoroughbred Season (January through March) and Quarter Horse Season (March through May).

another source of entertainment and educa-

SAN JACINTO MONUMENT & MUSEUM Site of the battle that won Texas independence from Mexico. The world’s largest masonry structure invites visitors to learn about events that shaped Texas history.

281-479-2421

tion for JSC guests. 281-244-2105

ST. FRANCIS WOLF SANCTUARY Wolves and wolf-dogs take refuge at the non-profit sanctuary outside of Montgomery, Texas where they receive protection and loving care. Volunteers run the sanctuary and give guided tours (by reservation only). On occasion, lucky guests have an opportunity to socialize with a few of the more tame wolves or wolf dogs. SFWS is also dedicated to the education of the public about wolves. Many visitors are surprised to learn that wolves in the wild are officially extinct in Texas.www.wolvesofsaintfrancis.org.

THE WATER WALL GALLERIA SCHLITTERBAHN GALVESTON ISLAND WATERPARK With its huge array of awesome aquatic adventures, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Photo courtesy of Space Center Houston

can be your personal happy place! During

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

Water Wall Galleria - Photo courtesy of GHCVB

of running water” - sits among 186 oak trees at the base of the 64-story Williams Tower.

THE WOODLANDS CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is an outdoor amphitheater surrounded by a lush forest. The Pavilion hosts contemporary concerts, is the Summer Home of the Houston Symphony, and past performances

by Bette Midler, Van Halen, Tina Turner, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Britney Spears, Clint Black, Coldplay, and other well-known groups. The schedule of diverse rock, classical, and jazz performances along with free seating makes the arts accessible to everyone.

George P. Mitchell, former chairman of Mitchell Energy & Development Corp. and founder of The Woodlands, along with his wife Cynthia Woods Mitchell, for whom The Pavilion is named, envisioned a first-class performing arts facility during the community’s planning stages. The Pavilion opened in 1990. Overall seating at the venue accommodates 16,500 guests including a lawn capacity

Photo courtesy of Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

THE WOODLANDS TOWN CENTER / THE WOODLANDS WATERWAY® The Woodlands Town Center, the downtown of The Woodlands, is a 1,000-acre destination for shopping, dining and entertainment attractions. The Woodlands Mall is a regional shopping center with more than 1.3 million square feet of indoor and outdoor venues. Visit Market Street, a 34-acre, Main-Street-styled shopping and special event venue. Waterway Square is distinguished by a 120-foot-long cascading water wall with dancing columns of water and fountains choreographed to music with colored lights at night. A children’s interactive fountain is also located in Waterway Square. Award-winning restaurants, new wine bars and great entertainment spots surround The Fountains.

to do their own paddling. Eleven hotels to suit any budget, including AVIA, the all-new, boutique hotel located in Market Street, The Woodlands Resort, with its Forest Oasis Waterscape™, and The Woodlands Waterway Marriott, a four-diamond property.

Town Center offers exceptional retail, dining and entertainment for residents and visitors.

For more information visit www.thewoodlandscvb.com/www.visitthewoodlands.com.

THE WOODLANDS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM The Woodlands Children’s Museum creates opportunities that educate, empower, and excite children and families through play while inspiring a lifelong sense of wonder

The Woodlands Waterway®, a 1.4-milelong

landscaped

water

feature

runs

through the heart of Town Center and links to the urban residential areas. Navigating around The Woodlands is not only

and discovery.

Patrons

can book their

birthday parties, field trips and other educational outreach events by contacting The Woodlands Children’s Museum. They are

easy, but fun aboard the Waterway Trolley

ideal for ideal for children 7 years of age and

or hop on a Water Taxi to explore all the

under. Visitors can explore the interactive

For a calendar of events and ticket informa-

sites along the corridor. Riva Road Boat

exhibits discovering creative and imagina-

tion visit www.woodlandscenter.org.

House rents kayaks for those who prefer

tive play experiences.

of about 10,000.

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75

SPORTS

& GOLF

Northwest 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.

GOLF COURSES April Sound Country Club

aprilsoundcountryclub.com

Houston Oaks Country Club

houstonoaks.com

Bear Creek Golf World

bearcreekgolfworld.com

Jersey Meadows Golf Course

jerseymeadow.com

BlackHorse Golf Club

blackhorsegolfclub.com

Lake Windcrest Golf Club

thegolftrails.com

Cypresswood Golf Course

cypresswood.com

Longwood Golf Club

longwoodgc.com

Del Lago Golf Resort

latorettalakeresort.com

Memorial Park Golf Course.

houstonmunicipalgolf.org

Gleannloch Pines Golf Club

golfgleannlochpines.com

River Plantation Country Club

riverplantationcc.com

High Meadow Ranch Golf Club

highmeadowranchgolf.com WindRose Golf Club

windrosegolfclub.com

Heron Lakes Golf Club

heronlakesgc.com

Woodforest Golf Club

woodforestgolf.com

Houston National Golf Club

houstonnationalgolf.com

PRIVATE

76

Champions Golf Club

championsgolfclub.com

The Club at Carlton Woods

www.carltonwoods.com

Hearthstone Country Club

clubcorp.com/Clubs/

The Woodlands Country Club

thewoodlandscc.com

Northgate Country Club

northgatecountryclub.com

Willow Creek Golf Club

willowcreekclub.com

Raveneaux Country Club

raveneaux.com

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

Photo courtesy of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce

PUBLIC

Golf Houston is a golfer’s paradise with over 200 days of sunshine. And in Northwest Houston, a wide range of municipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Fazio. Or watch the professionals grip it and rip it at the nearby Houston Open. In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA professionals and First Tee Programs are offered throughout the area.

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, handmade hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex fare and many other delectable choices while enjoying the game. Around the park, many restaurants, clubs and music venue hop, especially on game day.

The Houston Dynamo www.houstondynamo.com

the Western Conference. Two-time world basketball champions, the Rockets are regular challengers in playoff action and always provide exciting end-to-end action in the Toyota Center. Many star players have passed through the team’s roster over its almost-fifty-year history and now James Hardin and the rest have launched the Rockets back into competitive contention.

Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Houston’s Major Soccer League club.

The team name is reflective, in part, of Houston, an energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, fans have lots to cheer about as this team continues to rank well both at home and internationally.

The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass Stadium, an architecturally acclaimed venue, located east of downtown.

The Houston Texas www.houstontexans.com

The Houston Rockets www.houstonrockets.com

Sunday football is celebrated in NRG stadium cheering on the team, tailgating with friends in the parking lot before and after the game, at many sports bars around town, or in front of your own television.

Go Texans!

The Houston Rockets are the city’s professional National Basketball Association team playing in the Southwest Division of

Football is huge in Texas and the Texas are huge in Houston. In their 16th season, this NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012 and 2015 AFC South Division Champions.

Head coach Bill O’brien and owner Bob McNair have put together an exciting roster that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and new up-and-comers, like Deshaun Watson.

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ARTS, CULTURE s n o i t c a r t & At

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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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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T HE AT E R DIS TR IC T levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers.

Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org One of

America’s leading not-for-profit

theatres calls the Houston Theater District

Houston Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org

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.

Bayou Place 500 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.bayouplace.com Bayou Place is Houston’s premier destination for great food and good times. Popular venues such as the Revention Music Center and Sundance Cinemas are located here as well as many dining options – most popular is Houston’s own Hard Rock Café. This mosaic of entertainment options makes Bayou Place a prime spot for the Houston Theater District.

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings first-class entertainment and cultural enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series.

Houston Ballet 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as contemporary

works.

This

company

attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy whose instruction

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 The Houston Symphony’s mission is to “inspire and engage a large diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.” By 2025, the Houston Symphony aims to be one of America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestras.

Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually.

Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com Founded in 1975 and has been opening doors for locals of all ages to engage in the performing arts. They offer

classes for children and adults and hold performances by both local authors and established writers.

Stages Repertory Theatre 3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in the region that offers year-round employment for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres.

Society for FINE the Performing Arts 615 Louisiana St., Ste. 100, Houston, 77002 www.spahouston.org The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years.

Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities.

Wortham Theater Center 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.

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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 DIS TR IC T The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

and other innocent victims and honoring the

5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org

survivors’ legacy. The Holocaust Museum

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

Houston has a permanent exhibition called of

Houston is an institution dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Patrons of every age will appreciate the collections

“Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers,” as well as other pieces of history.

The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org

of work and dynamic exhibitions on display.

CAMH also offers special programs and

The Menil Collection is an art museum

educational opportunities. Admission is Free.

that houses both permanent collection and welcomes special exhibitions. Making art

The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org

accessible to all is vital to their mission, so no admission fee is charged and all public programs are free. They hope to educate

The Health Museum is Houston’s most interactive science learning center and a member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind in the country.

Popular exhibits include:

DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion Photo courtesy of The Art Car Museum

Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is proud to educate the public and preserve and promote the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America’s Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present. Here, you can find workshops, youth outreach programs and exhibits about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service.

and the McGovern 4D Theater.

and inspire by being readily accessible to future generations.

The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org The Museum of

Fine Arts, Houston

presents its exceptional exhibitions and The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org

installations to Houston residents and visi-

As one of the most heavily attended

embracing every era of history from across

museums in the United States, the Houston

the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou

Museum of Natural Science (HMNS)

Bend Collection not too far away. From

seeks to enhance knowledge and delight

2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum

in natural science and related subjects.

of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a

It houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety

tors alike.

The Museum has numerous

collections that fill the galleries year-round

magnificent two new buildings.

astronomy, space science, Native American

Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg.

Houston, 77204

Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org

culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry,

www.blafferartmuseum.org

A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store,

Holocaust Museum Houston

Mexican village, puppet show and an

5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org

infant play area are all under one roof. The

of permanent exhibit areas that examine

gems and minerals, Texas wildlife and Blaffer Art Museum helps the community

more. www.hmns.org

to engage in contemporary art through exhibitions, publications and public programs.

This art museum is free, and open to the public in an effort to promote participation

fun-filled hands on experience at the Children’s Museum of Houston will not leave

The

is

in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the

anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place

dedicated to educating people about the

gateway between the University of Houston

for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.

Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews

and the City of Houston.

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

Holocaust

Museum

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

Houston

TEXAS

Wineries

availability dates may change as the vineyard will not offer tours when it hosts any type of event, public or private. Call Haak Vineyards to verify that it will be having a tour on the Friday, Saturday or Sunday you plan to visit. www. haakwine.com

RANCHER’S DAUGHTER Rancher’s Daughter was once a boutique in Western Winery; today it’s a boutique in downtown Montgomery with its own winery. Celebrating everything Texas, the shop sells 275 varietals of wine, while the winery produces wines with names like Highway 105, Spotted Mule, and Cowgirl Blush. Wine enthusiasts and friends gather on the third Wednesday of the month

THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF SOME OF THE PREMIER WINERIES NEAR HOUSTON

for Wine Down Wednesdays that feature speakers, wine and music.

WHITLEY VINEYARDS AND WINE BAR

BERNHARDT WINERY

Festival. Their meads are crafted from

This down-home Texas winery is set in the

Texas wildflower honey sourced from a

rolling hills near Plantersville. Here, award-win-

farm on the nearby Texas gulf coast prai-

ning small-batch wines of classic varietals and

ries, which was selected for its location far

unique blends are created, and visitors are

from sources that could affect the taste of

treated to a fun tasting experience in a warm

the naturally flavorful and nuanced honey.

wines. Owner Gina Whitley used to stroll

environment. But there’s much more here,

Visit enchantedmanormeadery.com.

through her 1/3 acre back-yard vineyard

Whitley Vineyards and Wine bar is located in the heart of the historic district of Montgomery and features handcrafted

at sunset with a glass of wine, and dream

too. The winery hosts many events, like the Summer Sunset Lawn Concert Series, the Vino

GRIFFIN MEADERY

about a future as a vintner. Today, that

Piazza Primavera – an artisan marketplace –

Griffin Meadery is located in Willis and is

dream is coming true. A family operation,

weddings and other private functions. Plus,

producing small-batch, premium quality

the vineyard and wine production creates

visitors can stay at The Loft Bed and Breakfast.

wine and liquid gold. Meads range from a

quality reds, roses, and whites. Whitley

Check out www.bernhardtwinery.com.

cinnamon and vanilla combo with a festive

hosts regular ladies’ nights and welcomes

flair, to ones that taste of black current,

visitors as part of the annual Antiques

CORK THIS! WINERY

chocolate or even jalapeno, but beware: the

Festival in the historic district of Mont-

Started by a former business executive that

last one has a kick! You can also learn how to make your own mead. The legendary

gomery. www.whitleyvineyards.com.

wished for greener grass (or vineyards), the people at Cork This! make wine fun and

griffin is known as the guardian of treasure,

have fun making wine, producing wines with

and that’s what they’re producing here.

names like “Party on your Palate,” “Rich

Go to www.griffinmeadery.com.

Urban Biker,” and “Irreconcilable Differ-

WILD STALLION VINEYARDS Wild Stallion Vineyards began in 2008 with a small test planting of Blanc du Bois grapes, a variety most suited to the gulf

travelers alike because wine tasters are made

HAAK VINEYARDS AND WINERY

to feel comfortable and welcome. Cork This!

Though Haak Vineyards and Winery is not

over three acres and a range of varieties.

Has a strong Groupies Wine Club and hosts

on the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail, it is

Both the 2014 Sweet Moscato and the 2014

numerous events. www.corkthiswinery.com.

close to home. This is the only vineyard that

Blanc du Bois (Dry) were Southwest Wine

produces commercial wine in Galveston

Summit Silver Medal Winners. Located

ENCHANTED MANOR MEADERY

County, which is less than an hour from

near the Woodlands, The Wild Stallion

downtown Houston. Each $10 tour includes

Event Center hosts many events, like

Enchanted Manor Meadery of Magnolia

a Madeira tasting and samples of four other

Sangria Saturdays, concerts and weddings.

brews meads onsite at the Texas Renaissance

wines from the vineyards. The tour times and

Visit www.wildstallionvineyards.com

ences.” It’s a favorite place for locals and

coast region. The vineyard has grown to

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

81

Delicious HOUSTON’S

DINING SCENE When it comes to restaurants, Northwest Houston has one of the best in the nation, according to a new Yelp ranking. Tony’s Italian Delicatessen at 16283 Highway 105 tops the list of the website’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the US for 2017. The eatery’s menu boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods.

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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Marvino’s Italian Kitchen 24002 Northwest Fwy Cypress, TX 77429-7312 www.marvinositaliankitchen.com

Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen 27030 Northwest Freeway Cypress, TX 77433 www.gringostexmex.com

Jaxton’s Bistro 9955 Barker Cypress Rd. #104 Cypress, TX 77433 www.jaxtonsbistro.com Gianna Italian Kitchen 28301 TX 249 #100 Tomball, TX 77375 www.giannaitaliankitchen.com Strata Restaurant & Bar 122 Vintage Park Blvd Ste A Houston, TX 77070-4088 www.stratahouston.com

Season’s Harvest Cafe 17303 Shaw Rd Cypress, TX 77429-1321

Mel’s Country Café 124814 Stanolind Rd. Tomball, TX 77375 www.melscountrycafe.com Adriatic Cafe Italian Grill 17402 Northwest Fwy Jersey Village, TX 77040 www.adriaticcafe.com Punta Cana Caribbean Restaurant 17776 Tomball Pkwy Houston, TX 77064 www.puntacanahouston.com Gauchos Do Sul 126 Vintage Park Blvd Houston, TX 77070 www.gauchosdosul.com Thai Chefs 6965 Barker Cypress Rd Ste D Houston, TX 77084 www. thaichefshouston.com Banh Mi ETC 9211 West Rd Houston, TX 77064 www. banhmietc.com Mint Thai Kitchen 17513 Tomball Pkwy Houston, TX 77064 (Willowbrook) www.mintthai.kitchen Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen 10115 Louetta Rd Ste 400 Houston, TX 77070 www.ambriza.com Carriage House Café 9945 Barker Cypress Rd Ste 125 Cypress, TX 77433 www.thecarriagehousecafe.com MELT Gourmet Grilled Cheese 14030 Telge Rd, Telge and Huffmeister, Cypress, TX 77429-6200 Pecos Grilling Company 28900 Tomball Pkwy.

Tomball, TX 77375 www.pecosgrillingco.com Mezzanotte Ristorante 13215 Grant Rd Ste 1200 Cypress, TX 77429-4094 www.mezzanotte.tv

The Shack 16602 Cypress Rosehill Rd Cypress, TX 77429-1424 Nyam Nyam Cafe 15201 Mason Rd Cypress, TX 77433-5954 www.nyamnyamcafe.com Locatelli’s Pizza 13215 Grant Rd, Ste 500 Cypress, TX 77429-4093 www.locatellis.com Dario’s American Bistro 14315 Cypress Rosehill Rd Cypress, TX 77429-1013 www.dariossteakhouse.com Newk’s Eatery 25712 Northwest Freeway, Suite A Cypress, TX 77429 www.newks.com Cypress Breakfast House 12344 Barker Cypress Rd Cypress, TX 77429-8359 www.cypressbreakfasthouse.com Saltgrass Steak House 23952 Northwest Fwy Cypress, TX 77429-6173 www.saltgrass.com CorkScrew BBQ 26608 Keith St. Spring, TX 77373 www.corkscrewbbw.com Alicias Mexican Grille 26326 Northwest Fwy Cypress, TX 77429 www.aliciasmexicangrille.com Sam Seafood & Steak 12758 Grant Road Cypress, TX 77429 Merche 21208 Northwest Fwy Cypress, TX 77429-5975 www.mercherestaurant.com MOD Pizza-Towne Lake 9925 Barker Cypress Rd Cypress, TX 77433-5314 www.modpizza.com Rice and Bean Cuban Cuisine 26281 Highway 290, Suite 212 Cypress, TX 77429-1055 www.riceandbeanscubancuisine.net Carl’s Barbecue 21920 Northwest Fwy Cypress, TX 77429-3377 www.carlsbbq.com

SHOPPING The Boardwalk Towne Lake 9945 Barker Cypress Rd. Cypress, 77433 www.boardwalktl.com The Galleria Houston 5058 Westheimer Rd. Houston, 77056 www.galleriahouston.com Houston Premium Outlets 29300 Hempstead Rd. Cypress, 77433 www.premiumoutlets.com Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir Katy, TX 77494 www.katymills.com Market Street 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands, 77380 www.marketstreet-thewoodlands.com Old Town Spring Spring Preservation League, 123-F Midway, Spring, 77373 www.oldtownspring.com Outlets at Conroe 1111 League Line Rd. Conroe, 77303 www.outletsatconroe.com Willowbrook Mall 2000 Willowbrook Mall Houston, TX 77070 www.shopwillowbrookmall.com The Woodlands Mall 1201 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands, 77380 www.thewoodlandsmall.com HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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CALENDAR of EVENTS NORTHWEST HOUSTON & SURROUNDING AREA EVENTS YOU WIL NOT WANT TO MISS

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 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

APRIL 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.

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-

Magnolia Historical Depot Day

designed floats, 30 marching bands, and

stock show and rodeo. More than 250

Live Entertainment and children’s

over 150 performing groups.

teams led by barbecue aficionados

activities, barbecue and other great food,

www.mlkgrandeparade.org

will compete in a traditional Texas

a car show and Live and Silent Auctions.

cook-off. While most team tents are

Depot Day serves as the Magnolia

invitation-only, visitors can enjoy the

Historical Society’s annual fundraiser.

public venues including the Miller

Help support the Historic Depot building,

Lite Garden, Rockin’ Bar-B-Que

the Pavilion, Dr. Ware’s Office and the

Saloon and the Chuck Wagon, where

Replica of the first Magnolia Post Office.

you receive a complimentary chopped

www.magnoliatxhistoricalsociety.com

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

beef sandwich plate. Come enjoy three days of cooking, competition, eating and dancing! www.rodeohouston.com

www.woodlandsartsfestival.com

Bridgeland Nature Fest Bridgeland’s annual Nature Fest showcases this award-winning masterplanned community’s commitment to the

people watching. There is something for

Houston Livestock Show And Rodeo™

environment and ecosystem. Highlights

everyone including a beachfront carnival,

The Houston Livestock Show and

include food trucks, roaming entertainers,

shopping, and nightlife featuring every-

Rodeo™ was organized for charitable,

educational animal demos, unique crafts

thing from Cajun and salsa to jazz and

educational and scientific purposes to

from artists and nature vendors, and a

rock and roll.

encourage and promote the breeding,

www.mardigrasgalveston.com

raising and marketing of better livestock

FEBRUARY

and farm products at public fairs and to promote and maintain research and

kid’s zone with rides and activities. www.bridgeland.com

MAY

Texas Home & Garden Show

educational functions within the livestock

Beyond The Pints – Craft Beer And

Houston’s Premier “One Stop Shopping

industry. It is the general policy of the

Music Festival

Opportunity” for all your home & garden

Show to utilize, in the fiscal year subse-

Sample more than 40 local and national

needs. From Windows and Doors to

quent to which it is earned, the excess of

craft breweries while listening to live

Ceilings and Floors over 700 experts,

its revenue over expenses for the further-

music. East from locally owned and

products, services and ideas all under

ance of its exempt purpose, including the

operated food trucks. Family friendly,

one roof. This event is one of Texas

granting and/or funding of scholarships,

with a Kids Zone, retail vendors and

homeowners best resource for advice,

educational endowments, agricultural

entertainment for all.

money saving tips, remodeling ideas and

research projects and other similar

www.beyondthepints.com

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

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

JULY

Kingwood July 4Th Festival

of food and arts and enjoy an interna-

And Fireworks

tional experience. It provides a feast for

Celebrate in Kingwood with live music,

the senses and reflects the multicultural

craft and food booths. Plenty of activities

diversity of Houston.

for children – come out and enjoy the

www.latinolearningcenter.org

fireworks! www.kingwood.com

Texas Renaissance Festival

www.towncenterevents.com

Plantersville - Based on travel-worthiness, chance to broaden horizons and the

Houston World Series Of Dog Shows

ability to introduce people to try new

The Annual Houston World Series of

things and connect with others, the Texas

Dog Shows by the American Kennel

Renaissance Festival has been voted the

Club is one of the finest and largest

best cultural festival in the country by

indoor dog shows in the world that

USA Today and 10Best. Enjoy magi-

attracts more than 40,000 spectators,

cians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours,

participants and vendors.

comedians, food, arts and crafts that all

houstondogshows.com

celebrate life in the 16th Century. www.texrenfest.com

AUGUST Houston International Jazz Festival The Houston International Jazz Festival

Petfest – Old Town Spring

showcases Jazz, Rhythm and Blues,

PetFest is a weekend event dedicated to

Soul and Latin Fusion. More than a

finding homes for animals in shelters and

dozen artists from around the world

rescue groups. It’s a fun-filled festival of

will be featured.

entertainment and education that raises

www.jazzeducation.org

money, volunteers and foster homes.

Hunters Extravaganza Taking place at NRG Park, this is the

Freedom Over Texas Located in the newly renovated Eleanor Tinsley Park on Buffalo Bayou, Freedom Over Texas has become Houston’s signature annual Independence Day celebration and attracts nationally recognized recording artists as well as regional and local talent. www.freedomeovertexas.org Red, Hot And Blue Festival

OCTOBER

Bring your pet! www.petfestoldtownspring.com

place where hunters from across Texas

Bridgeland Annual Howloween Fest

and beyond gather each year to get

Watch the Canine Frisbee Disc Club,

ready for hunting season. Whether

Splash Dogs and the popular doggie

its deer hunting equipment, hunting

fashion show. Enjoy the many crowd-

accessories, hunting clothing, rifles,

and-canine approved activities. You and

knives, archery or any other hunting

your pet will have a dog-gone good time.

gear-hunters know they’ll find it at the

www.bridgeland.com

Hunters Extravaganza. Plus, hunters enter great contests, see exciting attrac-

Creekfest

tions, meet their favorite hunting and

CreekFest is a one-day festival held in

sports celebrities and more!

northwest Houston to celebrate the

www.ttha.com

arts and outdoors in the Cypress Creek community. Highlights include a 5k fun

SEPTEMBER

run, live music, a marketplace, local artists, tasty food and much more.

Enjoy vendor booths, great food,

Taste Of The World Houston

children’s activities and entertainment

Food And Wine Festival

on multiple stages. This event in The

The Houston World Food & Wine

Woodlands culminates with one of the

Festival celebrates food, drink, music

largest fireworks displays in the greater

and dance from around the world. The

Home For The Holidays

Houston area.

festival has a globe-trotting theme that

The local shops and businesses come alive

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

invites attendees to try out a new variety

with the Spirit of the Season, offering a

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

– WINTER/SPRING 2018

www.creekfesthouston.com

NOVEMBER

Photos courtesy of HWSDS

Photos courtesy of Richard Carson

variety of local, unique holiday gift ideas

food, home décor, garden accessories,

Annual Children’s Festival

and treasures. Holiday-makers stroll the

clothing, novelties and the perfect gift.

Fun takes center stage at The Cynthia

winding paths, enjoy the thousands of

www.houstonballet.org

Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s 20th Annual

twinkling lights, hot chocolate and other

Children’s Festival. Entertainment

holiday lights and a visit with Santa.

H-E-B Holiday Parade

spans from local community perfor-

www.oldtownspring.com

The Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day

mances to awarding-winning children’s

Parade will welcome the holiday season

performers, meaning you are sure to

by celebrating all things Houston,

enjoy the show!

including a salute to the world-acclaimed

www.woodlandscenter.org

Houston Galleria Uptown Holiday Lighting The annual holiday tradition flips the switch on a half-million twinkling lights along with music, holiday characters, and a special appearance by Santa. Fireworks grand finale. www.uptownhouston.com

Texas Medical Center. The Fun begins at 9am when the downtown streets come

DECEMBER

alive with zesty marching bands, imagi-

Jingle Bell Run

native floats and colorful balloons. Bring

Join Towne Lake for a family-friendly

the family.

and festive Jingle Bell Run! The race will begin at 8:00 am and start at The New

Nutcracker Market

Annual Home For The Holidays

Boardwalk. Pre-race festivities begin at

The Houston Ballet’s major fundraiser,

In Old Town Spring

7:00 am and include a DJ, Christmas

the Nutcracker Market is a shopping

Old Town Spring’s shops and restaurants

music, bouncy houses, hot chocolate,

wonderland. This year’s market will

come alive with spectacular displays of

face painting, and pictures with Santa.

feature more than 325 national and inter-

holiday lights, plus strolling performers,

All racers will receive jingle bells for their

national merchants carefully selected for

festive exhibits and family friendly activities.

shoes and a red long-sleeved t-shirt.

their unique offerings. Look for gourmet

www.oldtownspring.com

www.townelaketexas.com

DECEMBER: CHRISTMAS IN CYPRESS www.gracesymphony.org

Grace Symphony Orchestra is a unique performance ensemble that incorporates classical music, drama, dance and art into performances with an emphasis on inspiring a glorifying response to God. Join us for a heart-warming night of sing-a longs of Christmas favorites. Not to be missed! Benefits Cypress Assistance Ministries.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

87

ad index BANKS/CREDIT UNIONS Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union....................................................................................................................................................... 52

BUILDERS Ashton Woods Homes.................................................................................................................................................................. 26 Chesmar Homes........................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Drees Homes................................................................................................................................................................................. 21 Lennar Homes................................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Meritage Homes........................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Princeton Classic Homes................................................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Terrata Homes................................................................................................................................................................................. 3

CHURCHES The Woodlands United Methodist Church................................................................................................................................. 69

EDUCATION Cypress Christian School.............................................................................................................................................................. 41 Klein Independent School District............................................................................................................................................... 42 Lone Star College......................................................................................................................................................................... 47 New Horizons Computer Learning Center................................................................................................................................. 47 Our Lady of the Lake University................................................................................................................................................... 45 Rosehill Christian School............................................................................................................................................................... 43

HEALTH CARE CHI St. Luke’s Health..................................................................................................................................................................... 57 Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital................................................................................................................................... 59 MD Anderson Cancer Centers...................................................................................................................................................... 9

HOTELS/TEMPORARY LODGING Hotel Sorella................................................................................................................................................................................... 29

REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION SERVICES Better Homes & Gardens Gary Greene, Realtors .................................................................................................................... 20 Busy Bee Realty - Melissa Seureau.............................................................................................................................................. 27 HAR.COM....................................................................................................................................................................................... 65

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS Dellrose........................................................................................................................................................................... Back Cover Magnolia Reserve........................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Miramesa at Canyon Lakes West............................................................................................................................................... 19 Towne Lake, Bridlecreek, Willowcreek Ranch............................................................................................................................. 1

RECREATION Houston Rockets........................................................................................................................................................................... 77 Schlitterbahn Galveston Island................................................................................................................................................... 11 Texas Renaissance Festival............................................................................................................................... Inside Back Cover

UTILITIES Comcast / XFINITY .....................................................................................................................................................................7/33

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88

– WINTER/SPRING 2018 To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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