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,
70 2
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
FAMILY ROOM
MASTER BATH
15' x 18'
SEAT
Two homes. One roof.
KITCHEN 12' x 19'
UP
12' x 10'
FOYER
NextGen fits your life.
CLOSET FRZ
PRIVATE
UTILITY
REF.
COAT
PANTRY
Parent moving in? Grown kids moving back?
PWDR BEDROOM 4
BATH 2
12' x 12'
OPT. MEDIA
15' x 13'
PORCH
These days, typical living is anything but. That’s what
GAME ROOM
GARAGE 19' x 23'
15' x 19'
PRIVATE LIVING ROOM
makes NextGen so unique. Rather than just offer extra
BATH 3
12' x 11'
BEDROOM 5
UP OPEN RAILING
13' x 11'
KITCHENETTE 12' x 8'
STOOP
room, NextGen homes feature private entrances, BEDROOM 3 12' x 12'
OPEN TO BELOW
separate garages, and innovative floor plans designed to SECOND FLOOR
meet your unique needs. Discover multi-generational living
Main Home
GARAGE 20' x 10'
NextGen Suite
FIRST FLOOR
LENNAR REV. 06.10.15 PLAN 481N- NO FURNITURE
on a whole new level. NextGen. The Home Within a Home®.
|
from the $270s
|
NextGenHouston.com
|
Plans and elevations/renderings are artist’s concepts and may contain options or features which are not standard on all models. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, square footage and designs vary per plan and community and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Contact a Lennar or Village Builders new home consultant for detail. Garage sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate all vehicles. Stated dimensions and/or square footages are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Any statement, verbal or written, regarding “under air” or “furnished area” or any other description or modifier for the square footage size of any home is a shorthand description of the manner in which the square footage was estimated and should not be construed to indicate certainty. Models/lifestyle photos do not represent racial or ethnic preference. Copyright 2017 Lennar Corporation. All rights reserved. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Village Builders, the Village Builders logo and Next Gen and the Next Gen logo are registered service marks of Lennar corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 05/2017
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
6
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– WINTER/SPRING 2018
Moving? Start fresh with X1.
Astroblast and Miles from Tomorrowland available on XFINITY TV app
Bring the best in entertainment to your new home with XFINITY. Call 1-855-MOV-EDGE to speak to a dedicated Move Specialist or visit xfinity.com/moving today!
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®
10
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
14
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
16
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
11734 Barker Cypress, Suite 116 Cypress, TX 77433
832.334.0001
Tomball Office
14080 FM 2920, Suite C Tomball, TX 77377
281.310.5888
Fairfield Office
15103 Mason Rd, Suite A-1 Cypress, TX 77433
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.
MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE UP TO $5,000 TOWARDS CLOSING COSTS!*
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
26
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.
Uninterrupted quality time
Stream movies and shows, faster The results are in. XFINITY® delivers the fastest Internet in America, based on over 60 million consumer tests run at Speedtest.net. Enjoy reliably fast speeds, even during peak hours, so everyone can do what they love online — all at the same time.
Call 1-877-806-7198 or visit xfinity.com today for a great offer on the XFINITY® X1 Triple Play
Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. America’s fastest Internet based on report at Speedtest.net/awards/us. Speedtest is a trademark of Ookla, LLC. Used under license. Reliably fast claim based on 2014 FCC Measuring Broadband America report. © 2016 Comcast. All rights reserved. NPA173012-0008
110863_NPA173012-0008 Lifestyle ad_7.5x4.875.indd 1
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
35
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
– WINTER/SPRING 2018
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
– WINTER/SPRING 2018
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
– WINTER/SPRING 2018
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
68
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
69
in this section parks and attractions art and culture golf and sports calendar of events
70
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– WINTER/SPRING 2018
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
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
77
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.
78
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– WINTER/SPRING 2018
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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
79
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.
80
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.
82
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– WINTER/SPRING 2018
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
83
CALENDAR of EVENTS NORTHWEST HOUSTON & SURROUNDING AREA EVENTS YOU WIL NOT WANT TO MISS
84
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
85
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
86
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
Advertise in the next issue
Reserve your premium position today! 88
– WINTER/SPRING 2018 To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
DISTINCTIVE NEW HOMES IN HOCKLEY, TX FROM THE $190’s
Dellrose, Northwest Houston’s newest master-planned community, is zoned to the highly acclaimed Waller ISD. Our community offers a family-oriented lifestyle that puts convenience and recreation at the forefront. With plenty of on-site amenities, including splash pads, resort-style pool, playgrounds and clubhouse, Dellrose is sure to be the central hub of family activities. MODEL HOMES NOW OPEN
YOUR HOME SEARCH BEGINS AT DELLROSELIVING.COM
BEAZER HOMES
•
CALATLANTIC HOMES
•
EMPIRE
•
PLANTATION HOMES
•
PRINCETON CLASSIC HOMES
ANOTHER COMMUNITY BY Prices, sizes and specifications subject to change without notice. Please see a sales counselor for more details. E.&O.E.