THIS ISSUE: A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO NEW NEIGHBORHOODS, EDUCATION & EVENTS
Housing and
s d o o h r o b h g i Ne WHERE TO LIVE
THINK OF IT as a WIN-WINWIN 2017-18
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SPRING | SU MME R 2018
HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
288 South Map 18 Texas & Cost Of Living Planned 26 Master Communities 288 32 Texas School Districts 67 TX288 Toll Road Houston’s Active Lifestyle 68
Texas 288 Houston Newcomer Guide
contents | features
THIS ISSUE: A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO NEW NEIGHBORHOODS, EDUCATION & EVENTS
Housing and
Neighborhoods WHERE TO LIVE
ON THE COVER Meridiana Amenity Center Meridiana won the coveted Texas Star Award 2017 for Community of the Year, based on its commitment to creating a one-of-a-kind, education-based community. Meridiana is Houston’s first master-planned community with outdoor learning labs, created in collaboration with local educators. Students study the earth’s movement, the solar system, principles of gravity and velocity, wildlife habitats and more. In Galileo’s Lab students study weather, water quality, the solar system, gravity and velocity. PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: Visit Houston Texas Alvin Community College Alvin ISD Angleton ISD Art Car Museum Brazosport ISD Children’s Museum City of Alvin Tourism Froberg’s Farm
26 68
GHCVB Houston/Visit Houston Health South Pearland Houston Astros Houston Zoo Meridiana Photo courtesy of Meridiana
Mike Fox Photography Pearland ISD Pearland Town Center Pomona Sienna Plantation EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Judy Van Cleve Joy Oden Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino © WEB Media Group LLC 2018 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Choose Wisely Smart Questions Lead To Smart Decisions
You make decisions every day. The question is, are you making the right ones? At HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Pearland, we know how important it is to ask smart questions to help you or your loved one make the right decision for rehabilitation.
Questions like, • How often will I see a physician? • Are the latest technologies available? • Do the nurses specialize in rehabilitation?
Get the answers to choose wisely by calling HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Pearland at 346 907-3028.
Beginning April 1, 2018, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Pearland will become Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Pearland.
2121 Business Center Drive • Pearland, TX 77584 • healthsouthpearland.com ©2018:Encompass Health Corporation:1100103
contents | sections 16
WELCOME TO TEXAS 288 SOUTH HOUSTON • 10
Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956
HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 16 17 Neighborhoods 19 Master-Planned Communities
HOME FRONT • 22
22
info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com CEO Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans
24 Texas 288 Map & Cost of Living
EDUCATION IN TEXAS 288 SOUTH HOUSTON • 30 32 STEM STAAR 33 Public Schools 37 Private Schools
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino
ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 44
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
45 Senior Housing Options
PROJECT MANAGER
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 48 49 Vehicles 50 Recycling & Utilities
48
Robert Nusbaum
44 Higher Education
46 Assisted Living Communities
30
VICE PRESIDENT
54 International Relocation 56 Places of Worship
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 58
Cathy Turner
Judy Van Cleve ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jill Roe Paul Yarbrough GRAPHIC DESIGN Debora Licón Texas 288 South Houston Newcomer Guide is published and distributed bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC. For advertising information, please call 713-952-1916.
60 Major Medical Facilities
Although every attempt is made to
62 Finding a Doctor
be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is
BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 64
76
66 Major Employers List 66 Area Chambers of Commerce 67 T exas 288 Toll Road
LEISURE + RECREATION • 68
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.
70 Texas 288 South Area Attractions 75 Arts and Culture 80 Sports & Golf 82 Calendar of Events
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752 Phone: 512-266-2900 www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
Our housewarming gift to you: a $200 move-in bonus.
At TXU Energy, we hope this $200 VISA® prepaid card will help make your move a little easier–at least on your wallet. But that’s just the beginning of what we hope is a long relationship with you. By the way, did you know that along with connecting your electricity, we can help set up your Internet, TV, phone and even home security? One call does it all with TXU Energy Complete Connect: 1-877-TXU-MOVE.
Call or visit txu.com/mover today for your $200 move-in bonus. Use promo code “MOVE.” Valid for new TXU Energy move-in accounts enrolled at a single-family residential premises through this offer on a qualifying electricity plan. Redemption instructions will be mailed following enrollment. Allow six weeks after TXU Energy has received payment of your first month’s bill to receive the bonus. Card is valid for six months after issuance. Limit one per premises. Offer subject to change or cancellation at any time. Additional eligibility requirements, terms and conditions may apply. ©2018 TXU Energy. All rights reserved. REP #10004
WELCOME from
BRAZORIA COUNTY Where Texas Began, come and enjoy the coast all while being moments away from the Houston Metropolitan area and the Texas Medical Center.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to Brazoria County…..WHERE TEXAS BEGAN! Our county is located just south of the Houston metropolitan area. Its 1597 square miles offer a variety of historical, dining, entertainment, and shopping venues with a multitude of activities, events, and points of interest. We are blessed to have 28 miles of coastline on the Gulf of Mexico. Boating, fishing, and beachcombing are some of the most popular activities in our area. Our County is one of the fastest growing in the region. Today more than 330,000 people call Brazoria County home. With the Houston Metropolitan area just a short drive away, we have the opportunity to avail ourselves to all the things they have to offer. We are close to the Texas Medical Center. However, we don’t have to leave our county to enjoy excellent medical care, museums, theater, parks, fine dining, and youth activities. In addition, we feature eight great and highly regarded school districts. We are the home of Alvin Community College, Brazosport College, and the University of Houston - Clear Lake Pearland Campus. Whether you are working towards a degree or taking continuing education classes, you will find many choices at all of these locations. Brazoria County is the home of Sea Center Texas, the Nolan Ryan Center, Brazoria County Historical Museum, Varner Hogg Plantation, Abner Jackson Plantation, and many other wonderful sites. We showcase many county and city parks. Quintana Beach Park, Stahlman Park, and San Luis Park are some of the most popular. If outdoor sports are your game, we feature several golf courses, a water ski park, and many youth and adult sports complexes. We are proud of our rich history, and the community achievements that quality growth has brought to Brazoria County over the years. We encourage all to visit the many things we have to offer. We hope that you will see why we are so proud to call Brazoria County home!
Sincerely,
L. M. “MATT” SEBESTA, JR. Brazoria County Judge
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Your Lifestyle, Upgraded
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WELCOME from
TEXAS 288 SOUTH REGION Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in the Texas 288 South region and take advantage of what the community has to offer. Welcome to Houston! You’ve just arrived at one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, incredible cuisine, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation destinations, and home of the World Champion Houston Astros. As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll probably notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.
HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax: 713- 961-4869
BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax: 281-486-7530
MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760
The Houston real estate market has been one of the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle, whether you plan to buy or rent. The 37,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR) help make the American Dream come true for individuals and families every day. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization and our members appreciate that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make. More than a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which actually showcases property listings for the entire state of Texas. Our site offers dozens of user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more. Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more.
Fax: 936-273-0344
On behalf of HAR, it’s my great pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you take advantage of everything our incredible community offers.
FORT BEND
Sincerely,
6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557
Kenya Burrell-VanWormer 2018 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS®
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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“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.
in this section welcome recreation culture shopping & entertainment
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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to e m o c l e W HOUSTON&
TEXAS 288
In 2017, the Astros gave Houston its first World Series Championship. After Hurricane Harvey soaked the area leaving many to rebuild, the Championship inspired Houstonians to be “Houston Strong” and hopeful.
The Houston Astros wore a patch with the
What do Houston, New York, Los Angeles,
entertainment. Newcomers have always
word “Strong” over the team logo as they
Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego and
played a big part in the Houston area’s
battled to win the World Series Champi-
Boston have in common? According to
growth and diversity.
onship. A few months before, Hurricane
Resonance Consultancy’s 2016 U.S. Place
Harvey dropped more than 50 inches of
Equity Index, each of the cities received
Houston is a leading domestic and inter-
high marks for product, programming,
national center for virtually every segment
people, prosperity and promotion. Houston,
of the oil and gas industry: exploration,
the only Texas city in the top 10, took the
production,
No. 7 spot in the survey. According to the
service, supply, offshore drilling, and tech-
index, physical location is less important
nology. Construction projects estimated
today in determining the economic success
at $50 billion have been announced in the
of cities, states and countries. Increasingly,
petrochemical corridor along the Gulf
the quality of a place determines where
Coast. These projects will bring thousands
talent, capital and tourism flows.
of jobs to the area.
newcomers from around the world who
Houston’s entrepreneurial spirit is detect-
For several years medical and healthcare
bring with them a world view of business,
able across a broad range of industries
industries have been adding and expanding
opportunity and life quality.
from manufacturing and healthcare to
facilities to serve a growing population
rain crippling parts of the city for weeks. How
Houstonians
responded
during
Harvey and afterwards was truly heroic, but not unexpected for a city as resilient and generous as Houston. With 94 consulates, a dynamic bilingual population,
two
international
airports
and a top ranked port, Houston attracts
transmission,
marketing,
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
11
WELCOME TO TEXAS 288 SOUTH
Brazos Bend State Park
residing in the suburbs. In Central Houston the Texas Medical Center continues to add new facilities for education, research and technology to its ever expanding, worldclass campus. Houston, one of only three municipalities with two international airports, has direct access to Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica and Jamaica from Hobby Airport. While Houstonians are world travelers, there is always something exciting to do from theatre and dining to professional sporting events in Houston’s Sports District. Houstonians often use the phrase “inside the loop” or “outside the loop” as a location reference. Loop 610 or “the Loop” is a 38-mile ring around central Houston. Exits off Texas 288 provide quick access to attractions inside the Loop: downtown, the Museum District, NRG Stadium, Hermann Park, Montrose, the Houston Zoo, Rice University, The Galleria, and the Texas Medical Center. The Museum District is adjacent to Montrose - one of Houston’s most diverse neighborhoods. Rice University, The Glassell School of Art, Contemporary Arts Museum, C.G. Jung Educational Center, The Museum of Fine Arts, and Rothko Chapel are located in this vibrant district. Nearby museums include the Children’s Museum, Holocaust Museum and the Museum of Health & Medical Science. The
12
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Houston Museum of Natural Science is situ-
Due to its size and proximity to Houston,
ated near Miller Outdoor Theatre.
Brazoria County is experiencing steady economic growth. In lower Brazoria county,
TEXAS 288 CORRIDOR
billions of dollars are being invested in
The Texas 288 Corridor takes on its distinct
industrial complexes and new business enter-
personality outside the Beltway where
prises, and Port of Freeport is expanding to
cosmopolitan
into
accommodate projected growth in imports
suburban areas and an immense ecosystem
and exports due to the widening of the
in Brazoria County — “Where Texas
Panama Canal.
Houston
transitions
Began” almost 200 years ago. While the Texas 288 Corridor spans parts of Fort Bend, Harris and Galveston Counties most of the region lies within Brazoria County. Part of Stephen F. Austin’s “Old Three Hundred” colony of families arrived in the early 1820s. Brazoria County takes its name from the Brazos River, the 11th-longest river in the United States. Early Spanish explorers called the Brazos the Rio de los Brazos de Dios, The River of the Arms of God. Texas 288 can tout proximity to Houston’s largest employment centers including downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, The Galleria, Hobby Airport, NASA, and the Houston Energy Corridor. In addition to being a tourist destination, the Brazosport area is home to Dow Texas
Pearland, one of the fastest growing suburbs in the Houston area, and Friendswood, currently recognized as one the one of the safest cities in the Houston area, anchor the Texas 288 Corridor on the north. South of Pearland, Manvel and Alvin are shaping up to be the next residential and retail hubs. Key to their growth is direct access to both Texas 288 and Texas 6 (SH 6), a major gateway into Fort Bend County and Sugar Land.
The
nationally-acclaimed
Alvin
Community College campus was founded in Alvin almost 70 years ago. Angleton, the county seat for Brazoria County, and Lake Jackson are centers of commerce in lower Brazoria County. Sun-loving Houstonians head to Clute, Surfside and Quintana Beach in the Brazosport Area.
Operations, BASF and Port Freeport. Texas
In the Cities South chapter, you will learn
288 is ideally situated between the Port of
more about each city and what makes the
Houston, the largest container port on the
Texas 288 Corridor a quality place to live,
Texas Gulf Coast and Port Freeport.
visit, work and play.
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
“
If given the chance to move anywhere in the world, 67 percent of the Houstonians surveyed said they would stay in the area. – 2017 Kinder Houston Area Survey –
”
RECREATION
team placed third in the Little League
The Texas 288 Corridor is fortunate to have the Texas Gulf Coast as its most southern border. Expansive salt and freshwater marshes, sloughs, ponds, coastal prairies, and bottomland forest make ideal habitats for all sorts of wildlife. Visitors to the Brazoria Natural Wildlife Refuge and San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge enjoy exceptional wildlife watching, camping, fishing and some hunting. The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and the Upper Texas Coast Guide show dozens of birding spots in the area.
World Series in Williamsport PA. While
For sporting enthusiasts, the Brazosport area has it all from deep sea fishing and kayaking to surfing and sun bathing at Bryant Beach and Quintana Beach Park. The Museum of Natural Science and Nature Center and Planetarium are in The Center for the Arts and Sciences in Clute. The museum contains the largest seashell collection in the South along with dinosaur and mammoth fossils. Lake Jackson is home to Sea Center Texas, Lake Jackson Historical Museum, and Brazoria Natural Wildlife Refuge. Brazos Bend State Park & George Observatory are just 45 minutes from downtown Houston. Visitors can explore the park on foot, bike, or horseback via more than 37 miles of trails. Activities include fishing, picnicking, camping, and star gazing. In 2016, the City of Alvin was named a Playful City USA based largely on its vibrant Old Town Center, and well organized events, music festivals and Fun Runs that draw thousands of visitors.
baseball is popular, other outdoor activities are encouraged and supported by the City of Pearland.
Independence Park is
being re-designed with connecting trails to expand alternative transportation opportunities, sports fields, pavilions and new playground equipment.
CULTURE Residents of the Texas 288 Corridor are minutes from sporting events, theater, fine dining, clubs, historical parks, museums, a nationally acclaimed zoo, and seasonal events and festivals in central Houston. Closer to home cultural events take many forms to promote the arts, music, theater and the cultures of one of the most diverse populations in the state. Some of these cultural opportunities follow, but you will find more opportunities in the Arts & Culture chapter. Brazosport Center Stages, the oldest continuously operating community theater in the Gulf Coast of Texas, is part of The Center for the Arts & Science in Clute. The Center also houses the Brazosport Fine Arts Council, Art League, Brazosport Symphony Orchestra, and the highly-acclaimed Museum of Natural Science and Planetarium. In 2017, the Pearland Convention & Visitors Bureau teamed up with the Pearland Arts League and Pearland Alliance for Arts & Culture to create the Pear-Scape Art Sculpture Trail. In the Fall of the year, the Pearland Arts League sponsors Fusion of the Arts, a juried art show that supports
Pearland caught the eye of the nation in 2015 when the Pearland Little League West
local performing and visual artists. For theater enthusiasts, The Pearl Theatre Guild
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
13
WELCOME TO TEXAS 288 SOUTH
Photo courtesy Children’s Museum of Houston
presents seasonal performances of classical and contemporary plays at its permanent home, The Pearl Theater. Alvin Community College follows an annual calendar of entertainment that includes a
out or for seasonal celebrations, Fun Runs, movie nights, art shows and more. Courtyard by Marriott is the exclusive hotel for business and leisure travelers. The Center at Pearland Parkway is the dominant retail location on Pearland’s east side.
mix of opportunities, from musical performances and theatrical productions, to art shows and seasonal sporting events. Alvin’s culture is most noticeable at special events and concerts that typically involve, in one way or another, everyone in town. Angleton has hosted the Brazoria County Fair in various forms since 1910. The 9-day event is known for its old-fashioned fair atmosphere and entertainment. The Fair attracts a quarter million people.
SHOPPING, EATING OUT ENTERTAINMENT When it comes to good eating, shopping and entertainment the Texas 288 area has something for everyone.
To meet the tastes of its growing and diverse population restaurants specialize in Indian, Asian, Mexican, Italian and German specialties. Kings Biergarten & Restaurant is considered to be among the best German restaurants in the country. Locally-owned Killen’s Steakhouse in Pearland is recognized as one of the best in the U.S. by prestigious Travel & Leisure magazine.
surpassed in size only by the Galleria.
TRANSPORTATION
Baybrook Mall has added dozens of new
to shop, dine and meet friends for a night
According to the Texas Medical Center, approximately 7,000 residents of the Pearland area work in the medical center and use Texas 288 and Loop 610 to get there. Texas 288 carries over 180,000 vehicles per day and is one of the busiest corridors in Texas. The Sam Houston Tollway/Beltway 8 is a major connector to destinations in all directions via the Fort Bend Toll Road, U.S. 59 (I69) and I-45.
14
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
center that combines traditional retail with dining and entertainment options. The Lawn, a spacious grassy area measuring the length of a football field, is a gathering spot for the community. Pearland Town Center is the go-to-place
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
the Brazoria County Toll Road (BCTRA), Harris County and Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) started construction of the Texas 288 Toll Road in late 2016. Blueridge Transportation Group is devel-
Residents of Alvin, Angleton and Lake Jackson have a variety of large retailers, small shops, antique stores, automobile dealerships and other services to choose from. The Brazos Mall, at the corner of Texas 288 at Oyster Creek Drive in Lake Jackson, grand opened recently after undergoing extensive remodeling inside and out.
The Baybrook Mall in Friendswood is
stores, restaurants, and a vibrant lifestyle
To alleviate the congestion on Texas 288,
oping the Harris County segment for TxDOT.
The
Harris
County
portion
includes all 8 direct connectors to the Sam Houston Parkway as well as the reconstruction of a majority of the Texas 288 and IH 610 interchange. The
Brazoria
County
segment,
two
managed lanes in each direction, will begin at the Brazoria County line/Clear Creek and extend south through the northern section of the corridor to approximately CR 58. Brazoria County will work to complete their portion of the project at the same time the Harris County segment is ready to open in mid-2019. Future expansion of the Brazoria County section will take the managed lanes further south where Texas 288 will intersect with the future Grand Parkway, Texas 99 at County Road 60. The route for Segment B has been approved, but construction is not expected to start for several years pending financial reviews. Segment B starts near Texas 288 near County Road 60 travels south then east where it connects with Interstate 45 south of League City. Segment C, U.S. 59 to Texas 288, has environmental clearance.
Recognized as the 2017-2018 Community of the Year by the Greater Houston Builders Association and the Texas Association of Builders, Meridiana is a carefully planned community of new luxury homes amidst rolling green spaces, tranquil waterfront settings and resort-style amenities – all with immediate Texas 288 access minutes south of Pearland.
MERIDIANA EMERGES AS HOUSTON’S TOP COMMUNITY Opened in 2017, the award-winning communit y of fe r s new homes by Houston’s leading builders from the $200s to the $600s, including those on prized cul-de-sac properties and in exclusive gated sections. Although officially open for just over a year, Meridiana already has embarked on its second phase with new homes by Chesmar Homes, David Weekley Homes, Highland Homes, Perry Homes, Plantation Homes, Shea Homes, Taylor Morrison and Trendmaker Homes. Six new model homes, each fully furnished and expertly decorated, will open daily this spring with a dedicated builder sales representative on-site. Single and two-story homes in Meridiana feature gourmet island kitchens, Butler’s pantries, generous entertainment spaces, inviting master suites, spacious secondary bedrooms, wine grottos, media rooms and game rooms. Residents in Meridiana’s first phase also enjoy homesites sized five feet deeper than those in other masterplanned communities, a big plus for active families looking to add an oversized patio, outdoor kitchen or pool. Speaking of Meridiana’s active families, they often can be found at the community’s lakefront Oasis Village, a sprawling, resort-style setting with family pool and cabanas, lap pool, splash pad, fitness center, café, fishing pier and outdoor
play area, all-weather ping pong and foosball tables, shaded sitting areas and lush central lawn. A glass-walled conservatory is set over the water adjacent to an exclusive Ambassador Yacht for Meridianas canine ambassador Soleil, the community’s lovable golden retriever. Next to the Oasis Village, the new Iowa Colony City Park will offer a lush central lawn for soccer, Frisbee and kite flying along with a quadplex basketball court, two grass volleyball courts and ample shade to relax and unwind. The public park is part of a future, 100-acre tree-lined park setting with plans to open in the spring. Meridiana families also enjoy an A+ education at the on -site Mer idiana Elementary School while fun is guaranteed with a full-time Lifestyle Coordinator who plans movie nights, festivals and other community gatherings. Houston’s first master-planned community with outdoor learning labs, Meridiana provides a unique opportunity for residents of all ages to learn about the world around us. In Galileo’s Lab, a tree-lined, lakefront playground, children explore in a planetarium dome where an on-demand audio presentation explains how stars create the constellations. Two working telescopes provide an up-close look at the moon and stars while a working sextant measures angles between objects and
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
the horizon. Toddlers also can use their imagination in a make-believe space capsule and at a ship’s wheel. Other educational elements throughout the community include stone seating down Meridiana Parkway, across from the Oasis Village, which line up with the Meridian Tower to represent the winter and summer solstice lines. Thinking of your drive time to work? Meridiana is directly accessible to Texas 288 heading north and south via Meridiana Parkway. Simply exit the community and head north on Texas 288 to Pearland and the Texas Medical Center or turn south to Dow Chemical, BASF and other Brazoria County employers. Upon return, residents are greeted with an impressive LED screen of soothing seasonal images. Meridiana’s Welcome Center, situated in the community’s Oasis Village at 4003 Meridiana Parkway, is open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. For the latest information on Meridiana and its move-in ready homes, go to MeridianaTexas.com and sign up to receive e-mail updates from the community. Also, follow Meridiana at Facebook. com/MeridianaTexas and on Twitter and Instagram @meridianatexas.
in this section
Photo courtesy of Sienna Plantation
homes & lifestyle neighborhoods master-planned communities
16
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS Pearland, Friendswood, Alvin, Manvel, Angleton, Lake Jackson, Clute, Freeport, Surfside & Quintana Beach
Expect to find large master planned communities covering hundreds to thousands of acres, smaller enclaves with just a few hundred residents, and established neighborhoods surrounding golf courses, bodies of water and native forests. Beach homes, river front, and lakeside homes are available, too.
Existing and newly built homes, broadly
based on the floor plan, size, materials,
neighborhood. Updating homes can be as
priced from the $200,000s to over $3
location and weather. Home builders can
simple as a coat of paint and new flooring,
million, are readily available throughout the
give you a good estimate from the start date
or it might call for more extensive remod-
Texas 288 Corridor. Some newcomers rent
until completion.
eling taking months to complete.
a home to test the waters and save money.
Houston’s leading home builders have adopted
Local Realtors can help you locate new and
Seniors looking for a new place to call home
energy-saving features in the insulation,
existing homes through the Multiple Listing
will find 55-plus apartments, independent
roofing, appliances, water heating system,
and assisted living senior communities, and
air conditioning system, windows, doors and
nationally-acclaimed rehabilitation hospitals
orientation. Resale homes can be updated
and specialized clinics in the Texas 288 area.
with energy-saving appliances and other
townhomes or apartments before purchasing
features to improve energy consumption. With Home builders typically have inventory
an average temperature of 86 degrees and nine
homes available for quick move-in with
months of warm weather, energy-efficient air
designer selections already installed. When
conditioning is a must-have in Houston.
building a home from scratch, design
Service (MLS) and other sources. For more information you can do research at www. HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
TOWN CENTER The Town Center area in Pearland is largely served by the Alvin Independent School District. A small area on the far west side is
consultants can help you with standard
Resale homes have unique advantages that
served by the Fort Bend Independent School
features, select upgrades and estimate prices
cannot be easily replicated, from mature
District. Shadow Creek High School, the
so that your finished home is comfortable,
landscaping to a premium home site on
district’s third comprehensive high school, is
affordable and what you expect. The time
a golf course, lake, greenbelt or wooded
on the corner of Broadway and Kirby near
it takes to build your new home will vary
setting, to its location in a highly desirable
Pearland Town Center.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
17
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Photo courtesy of Pomona
Photo courtesy Pomona
Town Center’s retail centers, shopping, and
include parks and green spaces, lakes and
newly opened Park at Southlake features
entertainment venues make it a popular
ponds, resort-style pools, trail systems, village
playgrounds and a pool complex. Children
choice for active families. Town Center has
centers, exercise rooms, and neighborhood
attend schools within the award-winning
direct access to Broadway/FM 518, Texas
schools. Activity centers where newcomers
Alvin ISD and Fort Bend ISD.
288 and the Sam Houston Parkway which
can meet their neighbors.
can shorten drive times to employment
Pearland’s first master-planned community,
centers such as the Texas Medical Center,
“We believe amenities foster a stronger
Shadow Creek Ranch is in its final phase
Central Houston and southwest Houston.
sense of community because they bring
of development. Convenient shopping and
neighbors together,” Bynum said. “Making
dining options such as the Pearland Town
Town Center is home to Shadow Creek Ranch, the area’s largest master-planned community, Shadow Creek Ranch Business Center, Shadow Creek Ranch Square, the Medical Center District and the Lower Kirby District. Several hotels, a variety of restaurants, sports parks, churches, the Westside Library, and The Pearl Theater. Discovery at Shadow Creek Ranch Apartments are a short walk to major destinations in the Town Center area.
a connection is important when it comes to
Center and Shadow Creek Ranch Town
feeling at home.”
Center and a variety of corporate campuses,
A fishing camp and pier, natural scape
immediate area
In 1857 the first group of settlers to arrive in north Brazoria County settled along Chocolate Bayou. They named the settlement Pomona from the Latin name Pomum, meaning “Fruit”. Today, Pomona is the first LiveSmart
churches and child care facilities are in the
playground, amenity center, resort pools, walking trails and sports fields are part
TEXAS 6/MANVEL
of Pomona’s master plan. Pomona resi-
Texas 288 enters Manvel south of Pearland
dents have short drives to retail, health
Town Center. Alvin ISD serves communities
care, sporting events and employment
in Manvel and Alvin and a few communities
centers along FM 518 in Pearland. Pomona
in Pearland. This area is home to large-
Elementary opened this fall. Older students
scale communities including Southfork,
are zoned to Shadow Creek Ranch High
Sedona Lakes, Rodeo Palms and Pomona.
School. In addition, the Texas Medical
Manvel High School, Manvel City Hall and
Center is less than 20 miles from Pomona
a Brazoria County Annex are east of Texas
via Texas 288. Highland Homes, David
288 on Texas 6.
Weekley Homes, Coventry Homes, Plantation Homes, Perry Homes, and Trendmaker
Grand opening in 2018, NewPort Lake
Homes model homes are open daily.
Estates is being developed on 73 acres at
community to be developed by Hillwood
the southeast corner of CR 58 (Croix Rd)
Communities in the Houston-area. Russell
One of the newest communities in Pearland
and CR R48 (Old Airline Rd). NewPort has
Bynum, general manager of the Houston
is a 315-acre lakeside community on
three naturally designed lakes; 88 of the 199
Region, says top amenities in Houston
Broadway/FM 518 called Southlake. The
home sites are waterfront lots
18
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Bluewater Lakes in Manvel features lake and
homes by 12 leading builders priced from
Meridiana is Houston’s first master-planned
cul-de-sac home sites, a community pool
the high $200,000s to over $1 million.
community with outdoor learning labs,
and walking trails. An elementary school,
created in collaboration with local educa-
junior high school and Manvel High School
Club Sienna, a 12-acre recreation complex,
tors. Students of all ages can study the
(Alvin ISD) are all close by.
is home to the largest water adventure park
earth’s movement, the solar system, princi-
in the South. Sienna Plantation also offers is
ples of gravity and velocity, wildlife habitats
34 parks, miles of trails, and the 18-hole
famous for lifestyle amenities, Lakes of
and more. In Galileo’s Lab, students study
Sienna Plantation Golf Club. Camp Sienna
weather, water quality, the solar system,
is a 160-acre sports park along the Brazos
gravity and velocity.
Friendswood
Development
Company
Savannah on Texas 6 continues the tradition. With over 50 acres of lakes, at completion, beautiful views from peaceful vine covered retreats are enjoyed throughout the community.
River Corridor. Schools are part of the highly rated Fort Bend ISD.
Two other learning labs in Meridiana’s Amenity Village, a sky map and the
SOUTH OF TEXAS 6
community’s signature 60-foot Meridian
Meridiana recently won the coveted Texas
Tower, demonstrate the sun’s movement
Star Award 2017 for Community of the
in relation to the earth.
Year largely based on its commitment to
Solstice and Equinox lines track the sun’s
creating a one-of-a-kind, education-based
movement. The Meridian Tower casts a
new homes by 12 leading builders. Traditional
community. Meridiana Elementary School
spot of sunlight on the ground that moves
single-family homes, low-maintenance patio
(Alvin ISD) opened in 2016. Residents have
as the Earth rotates.
homes and luxury custom homes are priced
a 30-minute drive to Dow Chemical, BASF,
from the high $200,000s to over $1 million.
Freeport LNG and the Port of Freeport in
Amenity Village has a Welcome Center,
Sienna Plantation in Fort Bend County is a comprehensive
10,000-acre
master-planned
community located between Missouri City and Sugar Land. One of the top-selling communities in Fort Bend County, Sienna Plantation offers
The sky map’s
lower Brazoria County. While the Texas
fitness center with children’s play area,
One of the top-selling communities in Fort
Medical Center and Central Houston are
family pool with cabanas, splash pad,
Bend County, Sienna Plantation offers new
approximately 20 miles north.
poolside
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HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
19
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Photo courtesy of Meridiana
amphitheater for movie nights.
Photo courtesy Pomona
Activ-
shops, sports fields, historical sites and
ities include catch-and-release fishing,
many City services are in the Mid-Town
kayaking and a trail system to Meridian
area. Residents move around the area via
Elementary School.
Cullen, McHard Drive, FM 518, Mykawa, Texas 35/Main, Magnolia Road, Bailey
Meridiana’s second phase features a new addition, Chesmar Homes on 60-foot homesites.
The community’s second
phase also showcases homes by David Weekley Homes, Highland Homes, Perry Homes, Plantation Homes, Shea Homes, Taylor Morrison and Trendmaker Homes. Sterling Lakes, the first community to be developed south of Texas 6, has a new entrance from Texas 288. New sections, including a one-acre lot section featuring Terrata Homes, opened in 2017. Stone Meadow Homes offers homes priced from the $300,000s at Savannah Plantation on FM 1462 in the Alvin ISD. Over-sized
Road, and Veterans Dr. Opening in the spring of 2018, Townhomes at Lake Park is the first townhome community of its kind in west Pearland. The one, two and three-bedroom townhomes, from 766 to 1,557sq. ft. in size, offer a long list of luxurious amenities
The area’s newest community is Massey Lakes Estates. Close neighbors include the highly-regarded Massey Ranch Elementary, the only elementary school in the Pearland ISD to offer the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP).
including attached garages. Community amenities are impressive: a cyber lounge
Other neighborhoods in the West-Mid-
with coffee bar, pool with splash pad and
Town-TX35 area include Country Place
water features, two Lakes with Foun-
(Golf), Crystal Lake, Pearland Lakes, Silver-
tains, 24/7 fitness center, 24 HR clubroom
lake, Silver Creek, Sunrise Estates, and
with billiards, 1200 sf. Community Event
Avalon Terrace.
pavilion, fitness pavilion, bike storage, grilling stations, and easy access to hike and bike trails.
acreage home sites from 1 to 7 acres are
Townhomes at Lake Park is located on
unique in new-home communities in the
Cullen Boulevard north of FM 518. The
Houston area. A limited number of lake
Public Safety &Municipal Court building
front lots are available. Savannah Planta-
and Dawson High School are less than a
tion can also boast lower combined taxes.
mile from Lake Park.
PEARLAND WEST/MID-TOWN/TX35
Mid-Town
The area between Texas 288 and Texas
Chamber of Commerce, John Hargrove
35 was quick to respond to Pearland’s
Environment
first growth spurt more than 25 years ago.
Recreation Center and Natatorium, and
Shopping centers, restaurants, specialty
Centennial Park. The highly-acclaimed
20
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Robert Turner College and Career High School are located in this area. The palatial Sri Meenakshi Hindu temple, one of only three temples in the USA, sits in the heart of Mid-Town.
city
facilities
include
the
Stella Roberts Recycling Center, Pearland Complex,
the
Pearland
OLD TOWN HISTORIC DISTRICT To revitalize the central and historical core of Pearland, the City developed a Historic District Revitalization Plan that improved new roads, storm water upgrades, sidewalks, street signs and decorative lighting. Old Town Site is bordered by Orange Street to the north, Walnut Street to the south, Galveston Street on the east and Austin Street on the west. Some of Pearland’s finest churches are in the Old Town Site area, including St. Helen Catholic Church and school, and First
United Methodist Church. While small, Old Town is home turf for the Pearland Independent School District and hosts a Farmer’s Market on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month in Zychlinski Park on Grand Blvd.
retailers, restaurants, healthcare services, and
West Ranch, the largest master-planned
new-home communities.
community in Friendswood, features 100 acres of nature trails, parks and recreation
Texas 35 from Pearland enters the City of
areas, a resort-style swimming pool, compe-
Alvin at about County Road 133. The City
tition swimming pool and fishing pier.
of Alvin benefits from Texas 6, which runs
PARKWAY AREA
east to west, and newly improved Texas 35
New-home communities include Magnolia
Pearland Parkway is a direct link to the Sam Houston Parkway and I-45 making it ideally situated for families needing quick access to Hobby Airport, downtown Houston, the Petrochemical Corridor and the Bay Area. The University of Clear Lake Pearland Campus is on the parkway south of the Beltway. North of the Beltway, Pearland Parkway becomes Monroe, the east boundary of Hobby Airport.
which connects north Brazoria County to
Creek, Westover Park, West Lake, Reserve
the south part of the county. Alvin can boast
at Clear Creek, and Sterling Creek.
Old guard city services in the area include City Hall, Tom Reid Library, the Melvin Knapp Activity Center, Post Office, YMCA, Independence Park, Pearland High School and Pearland’s only country club, Golfcrest Country Club. The newly renovated Pearland Regional Airport is south of Dixie Farm Road. Established and newly-built communities, retail centers, office buildings, shallow ponds, manicured fields and natural green belts line both sides of the parkway as it meanders south toward Alvin. Most of the communities in this area are served by Pearland ISD, but Pasadena and Houston ISDs also serve the area. Neighborhoods in the Parkway area include Bridges at Blackhawk, Enclave at Highland Glen, Green Tee, Highland Crossing, Barker’s Landing, Highland Park, Riverstone Ranch, and Province Village.
affordable new homes and a good selection of resale homes, farms, ranches and acreage
BRAZOSPORT AREA
for custom building.
Brazoria, Clute, Freeport, Jones Creek, Lake
Space to spread out is the tagline at Bayou Trails Estates. This 20-acre community
Jackson, Oyster Creek, Quintana, Richwood, Surfside Beach.
features 16, 1-acre home sites that are 200-ft.
South Brazoria County consists of nine
wide. More than ample space for a work
municipalities which offer a broad range of
shop, boats, swimming pools and Texas-
cultural, business and recreational activities.
sized outdoor kitchens. Bayou Trails is being
Students attend classes at Brazosport ISD
developed on FM 2917 off TX 35, near
schools and can continue their studies at
Alvin and Liverpool. Stone Meadow Homes
Brazosport College.
are priced from the $280s to $400’s. Located on Oyster Creek Drive in Clute, Active
new-home
communities
include
Woodshore is the newest neighborhood
Kendall Lakes, Mustang Crossing, North
to open in the Lake Jackson area. Prior to
Point Trails and Forest Heights.
being developed, the property had been held
FRIENDSWOOD
by a single family for over 130 years. Woodshore, about two miles east of Texas 288,
Friendswood, honored as one of America’s
can boast natural amenities including lakes,
top 100 places to live, has an easy access to
a mature forest and a gently rolling terrain.
Hobby Airport, NASA, Ellington Field and the Bay Area. Acclaimed Friendswood ISD
Approximately 300 residential lots will be
and Clear Creek ISD service the area and
completed in six phases, phase 2 is currently
collectively employee thousands of teachers
under
and administrators.
move-in are available on a limited basis.
development.
Homes
for
quick
Photo courtesy of Pomona
ALVIN Alvin has much to offer retirees and families seeking a small-town pace, wide open spaces and parks, pedestrian friendly streets, and easy access to the arts and cultural events hosted by Alvin Community College. Alvin’s historical district, Town Center, speaks to the city’s heritage and future with thriving businesses, restaurants and boutique shops. In recent years, Alvin has attracted corporations seeking hundreds of skilled workers, big box
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
21
in this section
Photo courtesy of Discovery Green - Katya Horner, Photographer
cities south houston by the numbers cost of living & map
22
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
The
HOME FRONT Many of Houston’s best attributes are visible throughout the Texas 288 Corridor. WalletHub, a personal-finance website, recently ranked Pearland among the fastest growing cities in the U.S., 19th overall. The city came in No. 5 for population growth; growing almost 5 percent between 2009 and 2015.
Texas 288 offers a variety of homes and
of the nation’s best hospitals, physicians,
Texas Health Science Center at Houston,
lifestyles, acclaimed schools, low crime
researchers, educational institutions and
Baylor College of Medicine, Texas A&M
rates, and quick access to major business
health care providers. The Texas Medical
College of Medicine, and the University of
centers, sports districts, beaches, higher
Center consists of dozens of hospitals and
Texas Medical Branch in Galveston.
educational opportunities, and performing
clinics equipped to provide quality family
and visual art centers.
health care, cardiac care, cancer therapy,
Founded in 1945, the Texas Medical
trauma
MRI,
Center has functioned much like a munic-
THE TEXAS MEDICAL CENTER
Life Flight and innovative treatments in
ipal government, enforcing covenants and
The Texas Medical Center is the largest
hundreds of specialties.
restrictions, coordinating activities among
employer
in
Houston
with
care,
sports
medicine,
member institutions and maintaining the
106,000
employees; about 11 percent live in northern
With more than 7.2 million patients visits
infrastructure. Today, TMC institutions are
Brazoria County and southwestern Harris
a year the TMC offers the largest concen-
developing a shared vision that will focus
County. Pearland is home to the highest
tration of medical services in the world.
on five key areas of importance in the 21st
number of these employees.
TMC can boast 21 renowned hospitals, eight
century. Design teams, each comprised of
specialty institutions, eight academic and
leaders from member institutions focused
With 1,345 acres, the Texas Medical
research institutions, six nursing programs,
on Clinical Research, Genomics, Health
Center (TMC) is the eighth-largest business
four medical schools, schools of dentistry,
Policy, Innovation, and Regenerative Medi-
district in the country. This internationally
public health, and pharmacy. Affiliated
cine, are planning the future growth of the
recognized community is home to many
medical schools include the University of
Texas Medical Center.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
23
TEXAS 288 HOUSTON HOME FRONT
Brookside
CreekVillage
Clear
865
Texas 288 South
288
BNSF
R
T
D
EN
521
C
ree k
Prop. Value............$472,155,923,085 Retail Sales..............$88,892,139,887
Four Corners
LEVI JORDAN PLANTATION STATE 2611 HISTORIC SITE
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
Brazoria Reservoir 332
Lake Jackson a Br
ake ar L
Per Capita Inc......................$55,088
way ater BRAZORIA lW a t s NATIONAL oa rac WILDLIFE In t REFUGE Gulf West
523
2004
Demi-John
STATE PRISON
Mims
LR
zo s
2004
LR
36
2611
Clute
Jones Creek Churchill
523
288
Rivers End
LR
Oyster Creek
332
1495
2918
SAN BERNARD NAT WILDLIFE REFUGE
Treasure Island
Richwood B288
R iv er
FREEPORT
Surfside Beach
Quintana
G
JUSTIN HURST WILDLIFE MGMT AREA
Cost of Living
3005
Bay
o
524
Ced
Wages......................$37,346,009,148
LR
ANGLETON LR
521
2004
Amsterdam
Danbury
523
East Columbia
Wild Peach Brazoria
28
u
i
c
Sweeny
LR B288
Mustang Lake East/West
N
UP
1459
Liverpool
TO
35
522
2917 35
521
UP
DA
ou
Bay
OR
Unemployed.................................5.3
Old Ocean
Harris Reservoir
Holiday Lakes Bailey’s Prairie
2852
West Columbia
San Bernard Reservoirs
AG
Civilian labor......................2,279,367
1301
2917
288
ES
ville
AT
July mean max...........................90.7
1459
Eagle Nest Lake
LV
Lin
M
Jan. mean. min..........................43.4
524
GA
Danciger
LR
u
1301
Rainfall (in.)...............................56.81
VARNERHOGG PLANTATION STATE HISTORIC SITE
yo
Altitude (ft.).................sea level–310
B
Hillcrest Village
1462
655
Otey
R.
W
36
r nard Rive er
H
Land area(sq.mi.)..................1,703.5
LR
zos
Sa n
Rosharon
Bonney
STATE PRISON
k
Bra
T AR
517
ALVIN
2403
Cree
Damon
288
Sandy Point
6
SF
Ba
146'
Iowa Colony
STATE PRISON
528
BN
te
Cow
Manvel 521
ola
Population..........................4,538,028 ON
518
oc
FO
B
1462
Area (sq.mi.)..........................1,777.5
PEARLAND
518 1128
Ch
HISTORIC BRAZORIA COUNTY BORDERS HARRIS, GALVESTON, FORT BEND, MATAGORDA & WHARTON COUNTIES. Change fm 2010........................10.9
HARRIS
35
l f
o
0
f
M
e
x
6 MILES
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
Seattle
152.8
123.8
206.6
127.9 137.6
Tucson
94.9
104.5
76.0
24
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
95.8
138.7
96.5
126.2
125.1
123.5 136.5 100.3 104.6
PEARLAND
landscaping plans to help enhance key inter-
Seybold, Re-Chem, Dover Energy, Aggreko,
As the third largest city in the Houston MSA
sections along Texas 288 between Beltway 8
PLC, Tool-Flo and FloWorks Interna-
and the 33rd largest city in Texas, Pearland
and County Road 59, and includes lighting,
tional. In the Lower Kirby District, Lonza
is a thriving community with a diverse and
special paving, water features, sculptural
Houston, Inc. is completing an 80,000-sq.ft.
educated workforce.
elements and landscaping.
biotech facility. Healthcare providers in the
In 2012, Pearland adopted the 20/20
Current
Plan, a strategic outline for future success. The plan incorporates a wide range of economic development partners in government, education, healthcare and business. New initiatives are focusing on significant improvements along major corridors into the City of Pearland (Main Street/Texas 35,
projects
target
thoroughfares,
drainage, public safety, library expansions, parks, recreation facilities and sports venues. Pearland Parks & Recreation has various proj-
Methodist Hospital, HealthSouth Hospital and Kelsey Seybold. Pearland, first settled in 1894, was incor-
active community.
porated in 1959. The city currently has an
University of Houston-Clear Lake Pearland Campus offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Alvin Community
288) to attract commercial, retail and resi-
College offers core classes at the UHCL
dential developments.
Pearland campus and Shadow Creek Ranch
Corporation, the City of Pearland and
Hospital, HCA Pearland Medical Center,
ects underway that are designed to engage an
Cullen Boulevard, Broadway/518 and Texas
The Pearland Economic and Development
Pearland area include Memorial Hermann
High School, giving students the opportunity to attend elementary school through
estimated population of 120,000.
FRIENDSWOOD Friendswood’s reputation for traditional values, quality education, and low crime makes it a top choice for young families. Friendswood was named one of the
college without leaving home.
country’s “Best Places to Live” by Money
Municipal Management District to oversee
Pearland’s growing business community
of 100 cities across the U.S. SafeWise
a 288 Corridor Master Improvement Plan.
includes Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Merit
publishes a list of Texas’ 50 safest commu-
This Plan provides design, concepts and
Medical, Cardiovascular Systems, Kelsey
nities: Friendswood, the only Houston-area
local commercial property owners created a
magazine in 2009, ranking No. 32 out
Freedom to Spread Out Stone Meadow Homes crafts stunning homes that provide a comfortable lifestyle for you and your family today – and for years to come.
Homes on 1 to 2.5 acre lots $280s to $500’s Savannah Plantation
FM 1462 6 miles east of Texas 288 1.25 to 2.5 acre home sites $300s to $500s Alvin I.S.D.
Bayou Trails Estates
Alvin area east of Highway 35 on FM 2917 1-acre home sites, 200-ft. wide $280s to $400s Alvin I.S.D.
On an acreage home site you will have plenty of space for an extra garage, workshop, outdoor kitchen, pool, sport vehicle storage and much more.
7714 Stratford Hall Drive Rosharon, Texas 77583 832-945-1462
stonemeadowhomes.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
25
TEXAS 288 HOUSTON HOME FRONT
community, was ranked No. 10. In addition,
Independent
H-E-B.
restaurants, breweries, music venues, shops
Niche recognized Friendswood as the 11th
Grocery, Kroger Texas, City of Friendswood
School
District,
and new businesses of all kinds, hugs the
Best Suburb in the Houston area based on
and the Clear Creek ISD. More than half of
110-year-old, fully renovated Alvin Depot
crime, public schools, cost of living, job
the city’s residents are employed in execu-
Centre and Clock Tower grounds.
opportunities and amenities.
tive, professional and managerial positions.
Well maintained residential communities
In the late 1890s, three Quaker families
118th among 821 community colleges in
in Friendswood are typically set among
named Friendswood in honor of their friend-
2016 by Wallethub, provides a wide variety
tall oaks planted centuries ago by early
ship and the heavily wooded river-banks in
of activities, events and seasonal celebra-
settlers. West Ranch, a 766-acre master
the area. Friendswood was incorporated in
tions for residents and students.
planned
1960. The population today is 39,400.
Alvin Community College (ACC), rated
community
by
Friendswood
Development Company, will feature 1,500
Frontier
homes when built out.
nered
ALVIN
Friendswood voters approved four separate bond projects in 2016. The $24 million, multi-phased plan will improve fire stations, library facilities, parks, roads and streets over a seven-year period. In 2016, for the 28th year, the City of Friendswood received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
Alvin was honored with a 2016 Playful City USA designation for the 6th consecutive year. The national recognition program honors cities and towns across the country for making their cities more playable. For starters, Alvin is home to Froberg Farms, offering home grown fruit and
Communications
with
Empereon
has
part-
Marketing
to
provide strategic Customer Care and Tech
Support.
The
60,000-square-
foot call center features five high-tech training rooms, ergonomic workstations, game room, and internet café, among other amenities. Empereon-Constar will initially employ more than 250 representatives with a total of 650 jobs.
vegetables, Bayou Wildlife Park, Shimek
Major Employers include Alvin Indepen-
Residents have quick access to the Johnson
Garden, the Alvin Museum, and a Confed-
dent School District, Alvin Community
Space Center (NASA) just 10 miles away,
erate Cemetery. Stanton’s General Store,
College, Walmart, Ascend Performance
downtown
Airport,
which originally opened in 1922, is trip
Materials, INEOS Olefins & Polymers;
Ellington Field, petrochemical complexes,
back in time with a grocery store, feed store,
Empereon; Ron Carter Auto Group;
the Port of Houston, and Clear Lake.
farm supplies, livestock, restaurant and
Rice-Tec; Team, Inc, Diversified Ceramics,
Top
gift shop. Old Town Center touting trendy
and the City of Alvin.
Houston,
employers
Hobby
include
Friendswood
Photo courtesy of Pearland Town Center
26
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
In 1893, Alvin became the first incorporated
288. Manvel was incorporated in 1961, the
city in Brazoria County. Alvin’s estimated
current population is estimated to be 8,000.
“We live and work in Texas 288”
population today is 25,000.
IOWA COLONY MANVEL By size, 40 square miles, Manvel is one of the largest cities in Brazoria County. Developers are looking at Manvel for large multi-use projects encompassing commercial,
retail
and
large
master-planned
residential communities. Just 20 miles from downtown Houston Manvel Town Center, a 270-acre retail site at the intersection of Texas 288 and Texas 6, will be the first multi-use development in the City of Manvel. The Weitzman Group is developing the mixed center for large anchor stores, smaller retail stores, pad sites for restaurants and commercial buildings. Additionally, The Presido at Manvel is a 400-acre mixed use retail and residential development planned at the intersection of
Largely rural farm and ranch land describes Iowa Colony today, but change is coming. Projected growth along Texas 288 from Houston to the Brazosport area places Iowa Colony directly in the path of major residential, retail and commercial developments.
Representing Buyers in New Construction & Resale Shelley Naiser
Meridiana, a large master-planned community by Rise Development, is forever changing the frontage along Texas 288. The Meridiana Parkway Interchange over Texas 288 offers quick access into the community. The parkway will eventually extend to Highway 6 in Manvel giving residents immediate access to another major thoroughfare.
Mary Jennings
Sterling Lakes, located 3 miles south of Texas 6 at CR 56, was the first community of any size to be developed in Iowa Colony. Sierra Vista, a sister community is under development.
nities fronting on Texas 288: Sedona Lakes, Rodeo Palms, South Fork and Pomona. A fifth master-planned community, Meridiana, has approximately 3,500 lots planned in
The discovery of oil in 1948 brought regional employment to Iowa Colony. The City of Iowa Colony was incorporated in 1973, the current population is 1,120. Alvin I.S.D. serves Iowa Colony.
NEW CONSTRUCTION Pomona Meridiana Southlake Lakes of Savannah Sedona Lakes RESALE Shadow Creek Ranch Southern Trails Silverlake
Texas 288 and Texas 6. Manvel is home to four large-scale commu-
Your Texas 288 Neighborhood Experts.
Ashley Warren
OFFICE: 281-809-3719 MOBILE: 832-654-1262
www.ShelleyNaiserProperties.com The Texas Gulf Coast Regional Airport (LBX) located in Angleton features an 11,000 square-foot terminal office building,
Manvel with additional lots in Iowa Colony.
ANGLETON
In a future phase, residents will have quick
Angleton has been the county seat of
access to Manvel via Meridiana Parkway.
Brazoria
Smaller-scale communities (Bluewater Lakes,
Angleton can boast excellent schools, afford-
Martha’s Vineyard, Lakeland) are being
able housing, a low crime rate, and a high
developed along Texas 6 east Texas 288.
quality of life just minutes from the Texas
County
since
1896.
Today,
Gulf Coast. The Brazoria County Fair, The Alvin Independent School District
one of the largest fairs in Texas, is held in
serves the Manvel area. Manvel Junior
Angleton in October.
a restaurant and private hangers. The $2.5 million facility is a key part of the airport’s $34 million, 20-year master plan. The expansion is being funded by several sources including Brazoria County, the Federal Aviation Administration and the State of Texas. Angleton became an incorporated city in 1912, the current population is approaching 20,000.
High, Rodeo Palms Junior High School, Don Jeter and E. C. Mason Elemen-
The Parks and Recreation Department
tary Schools are in Manvel. The pride of
operates and maintains more than 200
BRAZOSPORT AREA
Manvel, Manvel High School, is east of
acres of developed parkland spread over
The Brazosport area is situated where the
Texas 288 on Texas 6.
eight parks.
These community parks
Brazos and San Bernard Rivers meet the
feature playgrounds, disc golf, outdoor
Texas Gulf Coast; a natural environment
Manvel’s history was greatly influenced
volleyball courts, horse shoes, rental pavil-
for outdoor activities. The lifestyle offers
by the railroad, settlers from the north and
ions, fitness trails, butterfly gardens, youth
a wide range of recreational opportunities
oil. It was named after Allen Manvel, the
sports complexes and dog parks. The
including fishing, boating, camping, bird-
president of the Santa Fe Railroad. Manvel
Angleton Recreation Center offers a variety
watching and 44 miles of beaches.
went from a recorded population of 106
of activities including a weight room,
in 1970 to a population of 3,549 in 1980,
fitness classes, a full court gymnasium,
The
due to the construction of highway Texas
meeting rooms and indoor pool.
Dow Chemical Company and the other
Brazosport
area
owes
much
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
to
27
TEXAS 288 HOUSTON HOME FRONT
“
Texas 288 Corridor boasts quick access to the Texas Gulf Coast and Central Houston.
”
To mark its continuing commitment to the Brazosport area, Brazoria County and the U.S. Gulf Coast, Dow Chemical opened the Texas Innovation Center (TXINN) in Lake Jackson. The TXINN houses advanced laboratory
facilities,
technical
expertise
chemical and petrochemical manufacturers
and Sciences. The college is a key provider
centers and administrative offices for the
that developed the area starting in the
of a highly-trained work force for industrial
Texas operation in the A. P. Beutel Building.
1930s. Nine separate municipalities--Bra-
employers throughout Brazoria County.
zoria, Clute, Freeport, Jones Creek, Lake
Clute is home to the “Great Texas Mosquito
Jackson, Oyster Creek, Quintana, Richwood and Surfside Beach—comprise the Brazosport Area.
nationally-recognized
tion of Clute is 11,211 and growing.
LAKE JACKSON
CLUTE The
Festival” held each year in July. The popula-
Brazosport
Lake Jackson, the largest city in the Brazo-
The Lake Jackson area is experiencing growth in other ways with the opening of a new H-E-B grocery store and Kroger Marketplace on Oyster Creek Drive. Other retailers, hotels and commercial businesses are building or completing new locations within the city. Residential communities
College in Clute occupies 156 acres of
sport area, is said to have been planned
naturally landscaped grounds enclosed on
almost foot-by-foot by architect, Alden B.
two sides by Oyster Creek. The Brazosport
Dow, and Dr. A. P. Buetel, the first general
Fine Arts Council, Art League, Brazosport
manager of Dow’s Texas Division in
The Brazos Mall, Texas 288 at Oyster Creek
Center Stage and the Museum of Natural
1941. Today, Dow Chemical’s A. P. Beutel
Drive, recently completed a $25 million
Science and Nature Center, and Planetarium
Building rises prominently above Texas 288
remodeling. The mall is anchored by
are all located in The Center for the Arts
to welcome visitors to Lake Jackson.
Dillard’s, JC Penney and AMC Cinemas.
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– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
are also being developed to satisfy a strong demand for new-homes and apartments.
world. Dow recently completed a new
Jetty Park in Surfside has panoramic views of
ethylene and plastics plant in Freeport,
the Gulf. Activities include a full playground,
part of a $6 billion expansion along the
fishing, crabbing and relaxing. A boat ramp
Gulf Coast. At full operating capacity, two
on Thunder Road claims to have the fastest
million metric tons a year, the Freeport
ramp access to the Texas Gulf Coast.
plant will be the world’s largest ethylene production facility. Plant construction is surging in the Freeport area. Freeport LNG started construction of
QUINTANA BEACH Quintana Beach County Park is a 51-acre beachfront park located on the upper Texas gulf coast with day-use amenities
the liquefaction project and expects to achieve
and overnight facilities. Natural attrac-
commercial operation in 2018, and BASF has
tions
started construction of an ammonia plant, a
nature viewing, swimming, surfing, beach-
joint venture with Norway-based Yara Inter-
combing, and shelling.
include
bird
watching,
fishing,
national ASA. Founded in 1958, BASF’s Freeport campus is the company’s oldest
Open year-round, the park features paved
manufacturing site outside Europe.
full-service RV campsites, self-contained cabins,
tent
camping,
restrooms
and
In addition to the economic impact of
showers, a meeting/party house complete
Dow Chemical, BASF, and numerous
with kitchen, an event center, covered
other chemical companies, Freeport is
pavilions, picnic tables, grills, playgrounds,
a thriving port city just three miles from
volleyball court, hiking trails, pedestrian
A former Sears store was redeveloped to
open Gulf of Mexico waters. Port Freeport
beach, lighted fishing pier, access to the
house T.J. Maxx and HomeGoods. Adja-
currently ranks 26th among U.S. ports in
west jetty, and paved parking.
cent to the mall, a full-service Courtyard by
international cargo tonnage. Freeport has a
Marriott serves the business community.
population of 12,100.
Lake Jackson is a jump-off point for endless
SURFSIDE BEACH
indoor and outdoor activities. Sea Center
Surfside Beach is a popular destination for
Texas, a fish hatchery producing 20 million
locals and Houstonians throughout the year.
fingerlings a year; Lake Jackson Historical
While just 2.2 square miles in size, Surfside
Museum, and The Gulf Coast Bird Obser-
offers visitors a host of activities. Beach
vatory are located in Lake Jackson. The
houses are available for short stays or longer
Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and the
family vacations. You will find homes for
Upper Texas Coast Guide show more than a
sale or lease along the beach and inland.
Photos courtesy of Froberg’s Farm
dozen birding spots in the area. The population of Lake Jackson is approaching 28,000.
The Bluewater Highway runs the length of
“We will provide timely, knowledgeable and dedicated service to locate and secure the property that best meets your needs and requirements. Whether you choose to lease, buy or sell, we will skillfully guide you every step of the way.”
Surfside Beach and continues northeast to
FREEPORT
San Luis Pass and the bridge onto Galveston
Freeport, the second largest city in the
Island’s west beach. The Bluewater Highway
Brazosport area, is less than 5 miles from the
Trail is a nature trail designed for walks, golf
mouth of the Brazos River. Popular activi-
carts, bicycles, or joggers.
ties include fishing from land and offshore, crabbing, and sun bathing at Bryant Beach
Stahlman Park, a favorite event venue and
and Quintana Beach Park. The Gulf Coast
Gulf-side park, is ideal for large occasions
Bird Observatory and Brazoria National
or casual gatherings. Views of the Gulf of
Wildlife Refuge are in Freeport.
Mexico via decks, a gazebo, and walkover are spectacular. Across from Stahlman
Freeport is home to Dow Chemical, one
Park, the crabbing pier is a favorite spot
of the largest chemical companies in the
with locals of all ages.
Professional Service You Can Trust! Your Houston Real Estate & Apartment Locating Specialists
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29
in this section STEM public schools private schools higher education
30
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
EDUCATION IN TEXAS 288 SOUTH The only thing more expensive than investing in education is not investing in education. Districts in the Texas 288 Corridor offer an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities to prepare a growing population for future careers.
The Texas 288 Corridor is served by
(STAAR) tests. STAAR tests measure a
students. Open-enrollment Charter schools
five independent school districts: Alvin,
child’s performance, as well as academic
receive state funds based on the average
Angleton, Brazosport, Friendswood and
growth and college and career readiness.
daily attendance of students; however, they
Pearland. In addition, limited areas are
The number of subjects tested and the
do not receive funds from local tax revenue.
served by the Fort Bend, Houston, Pasa-
number of tests taken each year varies by
dena and Clear Creek Independent School
grade. Results from STAAR are used to
As health care and biotechnology indus-
Districts. Each district is governed by its own
calculate annual school and district perfor-
tries grow and mature within the Texas 288
board of elected trustees and offers a variety
mance ratings. For current information,
Corridor, career opportunities for educated
of study areas, extracurricular activities, and
ask your school district for updates or visit
skilled workers are increasing. Students
special education departments to meet the
the Texas Education Association (TEA)
interested in health science careers can
needs of students. All of the school districts
website at tea.texas.gov.
enroll in programs offered at local community colleges and advance their degrees at
in the Texas 288 Corridor “Met Standards” in the 2017 Accountability Ratings Report
In the State of Texas, charter schools operate
released by the Texas Education Agency.
under and receive academic accountability
numerous colleges and universities.
ratings from the Texas Education Agency.
Several
Texas students take the State of Texas
All charter students in Texas take the same
between local colleges and industry to train
Assessment
STAAR test as traditional public school
students for job specialties in high demand.
of
Academic
Readiness
programs
utilize
partnerships
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T E X A S 2 8 8 H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
Photo courtesy of Pearland ISD
STEM EDUCATION
In 2013, the average STEM occupation paid
The Texas Science, Technology, Engi-
STEM is an acronym for Science, Tech-
about $80,000 annually. That’s roughly 1.7
neering, and Math (T-STEM) Challenge
nology, Engineering and Math education.
times the average yearly U.S. wage.
Scholarship Program was established by
Simply defined, STEM is an interdisciplinary and applied approach that is coupled with hands-on, problem-based learning. Advocates of integrated approaches to STEM education believe teaching STEM in a more connected manner, especially in the context of real-world issues, can make STEM subjects more relevant to students and teachers. The goal being to increase the number of students who consider a career in a STEM-related field, and to improve
There are several STEM Initiatives in Texas to inspire existing and new programs. The Texas Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (T-STEM) Initiative provides a foundational approach to empower teachers, inspire students, and advance the STEM education. The` public-private initiative of academies, professional development centers and networks is designed to improve instruction and academic performance in science and mathematics-related subjects at
college readiness.
secondary schools.
Some educators want to include Art in
The school districts in the Texas 288 Corridor
House Bill 2910. Grants awarded under the T-STEM program allow community and technical colleges to provide merit-based scholarships to qualifying, high-achieving full-time students pursuing careers in STEM and related fields. Participating colleges partner with local business and industry to identify local employment needs in T-STEM occupations and to develop part-time employment opportunities for scholarship recipients. For the latest research on integrated STEM education,
see
the
National
Research
STEM programs making STEAM. Propo-
are integrating STEM teaching principals
Council report STEM Integration in K-12
nents of STEAM see art as a way of
in K-12 grade. Local businesses and indus-
Education at http://bit.ly/1fxFp2D.
offering more diverse learning opportuni-
tries are also taking an active part in STEM
ties, and better access to STEM programs
educational programs to strengthen the
for
Engaging
STEM skills of students while introducing a
students’ strengths using art activities
variety of career choices. Stephen F. Austin
increases motivation and the probability
Elementary School in the Brazosport ISD is
of STEM success.
a dedicated STEM campus for grades K-6.
Alvin ISD www.alvinisd.net
The U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects
Dow Chemical Company, a world leader in
Alvin ISD serves the Alvin-Manvel-Rosha-
a 13 percent growth in careers in the STEM
STEM education, works closely with local
ron-Pearland areas. Spanning more than 252
sector between 2012 and 2020, compared
schools, colleges, government and other
square miles across Brazoria County, Alvin
with 11 percent growth in non-STEM sectors.
industries in support of STEM education.
ISD caters to some of the fastest growing
32
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
all
types
of
learners.
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
TEXAS 288 SCHOOL DISTRICTS
communities in the Houston metropolitan
through a unique partnership with Alvin
area. The district is home to 29 campuses
Community College. Along with Dual
and a Career and Technical Center with more
Credit courses, students can earn both a
expected for Alvin ISD’s future.
high school diploma and an Associate
Shadow Creek High School, Alvin ISD’s
Degree from Alvin Community College.
third high school, opened in 2016 and will
Alvin ISD Board of Trustees has made
house up to 2,500 students. Shirley Dill
Career & Technical Education (CTE) a
Brothers and Pomona Elementary Schools
priority through the expansion of the CTE
opened in 2017.
program, which allows students to earn
Alvin ISD is the employer of choice for more than 3,000 educators and staff who are committed to helping every student achieve
certifications in pathways such as welding, veterinary sciences, cosmetology, and as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
their maximum potential. The district
Phase 1 of the new CTE center is complete,
currently serves more than 22,000 students,
housing autotech education. Phase 2 of
with a projected growth rate of 1,000 or
the center began construction in March of
more students every school year.
this year. For additional information about Alvin ISD visit www.alvinisd.net.
Teaching Outreach - There are various programs in Alvin ISD that aim to further
Angleton ISD
the education of students, even outside class.
www.angletonisd.net
For the first time in the district’s history, the Alvin ISD Book Bus; now, the “library on
Angleton Independent School District
wheels” will be able to serve hundreds of
strives to provide a high-quality educa-
Alvin ISD students.
tion and today serves approximately 6,800 students in a 396-square mile district.
The
number
of
Advanced
Placement
Scholars increases annually, while the district
Because the district recognizes the value
boasts a growing number of students who
of producing highly skilled graduates,
distinguish themselves in various academic,
AISD has designed multiple pathways for
fine arts and athletic competitions. This year,
college and career readiness. AISD is in its
there were two National Scholars as well as
ninth year of the Dual Language Program,
six National Hispanic Scholars.
an educational model in which native English speakers and native speakers
Academic Challenges - Alvin ISD high
of another language receive instruction
school seniors average $5 million in
in both languages to promote bilingual
academic, fine arts, and athletic scholar-
literacy in an ever-growing global market.
ships every year. SeaPerch, Project Lead the Way, STEM Academy and MAP
Career & Technology Programs - Addi-
(Magnet Academic Program) are just a few
tionally, Angleton High School offers
of the programs that provide opportunities
several career and technology programs,
to broaden knowledge, skills, and experi-
such as welding, criminal justice and
ences to Gifted and Talented and highly
culinary arts. Students can participate
motivated students. In addition, special
in award-winning fine arts programs,
education programs are also provided for
championship athletic programs, and a
students with disabilities through special
wide array of academic courses including
instruction, modifications, and services.
Advanced Placement and Dual/Concurrent College classes. The most accelerated
Alvin ISD high school students can earn
level of
college credit by taking advantage of
program (Pre-AP/AP) is its X-elerate
more than 75 Dual Credit courses offered
program for 5th or 6th grade students.
AISD’s advanced academics
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T E X A S 2 8 8 H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
Photo courtesy of Brazosport ISD
Photo courtesy Angleton ISD
STEAM & STEM Education - Wanting
In 2017 Northside Elementary became the
ensures financial strength and provides the
to give students more opportunities to
Northside STEAM Academy, a special-
resources to equip and maintain quality
become involved in STEAM fields, the
ized elementary school that focuses on
facilities and educational programming. To
district has made a huge push to incorpo-
science and technology as they are inter-
support its mission, BISD students from
rate multiple STEAM related programs
preted through engineering and the arts while based in mathematical elements. The
pre-kindergarten to twelfth grade receive a
in the classroom and as extracurricular activities,
Northside STEAM Academy will maintain
promoting
innovation
and
academic success.
the benefits of being a neighborhood school.
AISD Wildcat STEM Academy is an initia-
For more information visit angletonisd.net
tive based on the high school’s T-STEM
or search for Angleton ISD on Facebook.
designation from the state. Students in the academy can apply to be part of a cohort of students who are grouped together to
Brazosport ISD www.brazosportisd.net
focus on STEM related careers. As one
Brazosport Independent School District
of only 70 T-STEM Academies in Texas,
encompasses over 200 square miles of agri-
AISD started its academy last year at the
culture, ranching, industry, technology,
high school with a STEM pathway focused
service and small business, all thriving on
on Robotics and Engineering Design.
a horizon that spans from beachfront to
This year the academy is adding a STEM
urban convenience to rich farmland.
pathway in Health Science and Computer STEM
The district serves eight communities - Clute,
Academy has been expanded to include the
Freeport, Jones Creek, Lake Jackson, Oyster
Angleton Junior High School.
Creek, Richwood, Quintana and Surfside
Programming.
The
Wildcat
Beach - meeting the needs of nearly 12,500
quality education through superior services and diverse programs. Two Schools of Choice B*Success Academy – a 9-12 grade campus that offers students who are on track for graduation, an alternative to a traditional high school model through both face to face and online instruction. Stephen F. Austin Elementary, in its third year as a School of Choice, is a dedicated elementary STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) campus for grades K-6. Challenging
and
Rigorous
Coursework
- BISD offers challenging and rigorous coursework in all 19 schools with the three high schools offering Advanced Placement
Additionally, the district participates in
students on 19 campuses, setting the standard
(AP) classes and extensive Dual Credit
FIRST—For Inspiration and Recognition
for educational excellence with the mission to
college courses in a partnership with Brazo-
of Science and Technology—that helps
graduate each student to be future ready.
sport College. Along with these possibilities, BISD also offers extensive services for gifted
inspire young people’s interest and participation in science, as well as the You Be the
Brazosport ISD provides a rigorous and rele-
students under the ‘SEARCH’ (Seeking
Chemist Challenge. Last year an Angleton
vant learning experience for each child in an
Excellence through Ability, Responsibility,
Junior High eighth grader took first in the
environment that is safe and conducive to
Creativity & Honor Program) program, for
state competition.
learning. Through fiscal responsibility, BISD
students in grades K-8.
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– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Diverse Programs - Local industry partners
Texas Education Agency, the district’s
actively support elementary through high
curriculum emphasizes academic skills,
school robotic programs along with NASA
higher academic thinking and cooperative
supported rocket engineering opportunities.
learning strategies.
BISD offers robust Career & Technical
The FISD School Board was named 2016
Education (CTE) programs in the areas
Outstanding School Board of the Year in the
of construction, health, finance, industry,
region and is currently being considered for
welding, culinary, floral design, with more
the top honors at state level.
being added this year. In partnership with Brazosport College, the district will now offer
FISD has six campuses: one k-5 campus, one
an additional 12 dual credit courses in Career
k-3, two 3-5 intermediate campus, one 6-8
and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
grade junior high and one 9-12 high school.
Starting the Fall of 2018, students who meet entrance requirements at both Brazosport High School and Brazoswood High School, will be able to enroll in more CTE based pathways.
UIL participation is high with state winners advancing to the playoffs where many teams reach the top. The District was awarded the 2014, 2010 and 2009 Lone Star Cup, which
Unique Opportunities - All BISD students have classroom access to chromebooks with those
honors a district for top academic and athletic
in grades 6-12 receiving a district purchased
records, and has continued to be in the top
Chromebook to provide students 24/7 access
three other years.
to their assignments, homework, online textbooks, tutorials, and other educational resources. These digital devices enable the teachers to differentiate their lessons both in terms of how they teach and how the students are expected to demonstrate their learning.
Friendswood High School was named in the Nation’s Top 1500 high schools by Newsweek Magazine. US News and World Report placed the school in the top 30 comprehensive high schools in Texas. Consequently, the many awards its
All BISD campuses offer a wide range of
clubs, organizations, sports, and programs
extracurricular activities to meet the varying
receive make FHS a top contender in
needs of all students. From elementary
the State and Nation. In the Academic
campus clubs to secondary UIL opportunities
Decathlon program FHS has won more
that include nationally recognized and award
state championships than any other high
winning fine arts programs along with excep-
school in the nation.
tional athletic programs in grades 7 – 12, there is a place for every student to belong.
The FHS Band and Choir as well as the
Brazosport ISD is made up of kind,
have won prestigious competitions at all
caring and compassionate employees and
levels. The Drama Department has won
community members who work together
more UIL competitions than any other high
to ensure that students have a wide range
school group in the State over the past 10
of high-quality programs to engage every
years. In 1987, members of the FISD School
learning style and assist in tapping into
Board implemented a Character Ed program.
their unique gifts. To find out more about
Since then the Westwood Elementary was
BISD go to www.brazosportisd.net.
named the first State School of Character and
Friendswood Junior High Band and Choir
a National School of Character. Friendswood ISD www.myfisd.com The
Friendswood
Pearland ISD www.pearlandisd.org Independent
School
District was established in 1948 and covers
Located in one of
15 square miles. Fully accredited by the
est-growing suburbs, Pearland Independent
the nation’s fast-
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35
T E X A S 2 8 8 H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
Pearland ISD students are equipped to become leaders with grit who impact their world. For more information, visit pearlandisd.org.
AREA SCHOOL DISTRICTS Fort Bend ISD www.fortbendisd.com As one of the largest districts in Texas, Fort Bend ISD spans 170 square miles in northeast Fort Bend County, just southwest of Houston and Harris County. The district maintains over 1,200 acres of land, 74
Photo courtesy of Alvin ISD
schools and 13 other sites for administration, athletics, agriculture, and the FBISD School District provides a world-class
Children at Risk’s 2017 school rankings.
Police Department. FBISD has 11 high
education to 22,000 students.
Eighteen of 20 district campuses included in
schools, 14 middle schools and 45 elemen-
Children at Risk’s annual rankings received
tary campuses; and to address various
an “A” grade.
vocational interests and special learning
Pearland ISD has 23 campuses: 11 elementary schools (including an International Baccalaureate World School), four middle
Student Achievement- Individually, Pearland
schools, four junior high schools, two tradi-
ISD students stand out among their peers.
tional high schools, a college and career
District high school students consistently
high school and an alternative campus. The district also offers a Gifted and Talented Academy (grades 5-8) and Dual Language Pilot Program at four elementary campuses.
score above state and global averages in SAT/ ACT scores and earned 568 Advanced Place-
Education Center, the M.R. Wood Center for Learning, the Ferndell Henry Center for Learning, and the Progressive High School. For information visit fortbendisd.com Houston ISD www.houstonisd.org
ment Scholar Awards in 2016. In fine arts and athletics, students frequently
District Excellence- While achieving top
bring home the gold, whether awarded gold
state accountability ratings, Pearland ISD
medals for rodeo art or advancing to the
consistently rises to the top of state and
UIL state finals.
The Houston Independent School District is committed to providing a high-quality education. HISD has 279 schools and more than 204,000 students, making it the largest
regional lists for academic excellence, student support and more.
needs, the district also has a Technical
Pearland ISD students also graduate college
district in Texas and the seventh-largest in
and career ready, thanks to a variety of CTE
the United States. HISD serves a dynamic,
In 2017, Niche.com ranked Pearland ISD
and dual credit programs for workforce
highly diversified community and is one of
the No. 3 district in the Houston metro area
learning and associate degree opportunities.
Houston’s largest business enterprises. For
and No. 18 in Texas based on testing data and student and parent surveys.
information visit houstonisd.org. World-Class Care- In fall 2015, the district
For high academic achievement combined with cost-effective operations, the district
established RISE Mentoring to connect students with caring, committed adults
Pasadena ISD www1.pasadenaisd.org
community-wide. Mentors and mentee meet
Pasadena ISD serves much of south-
rating, five stars given to only 46 districts/
on campus 30 minutes a week, developing
east Harris County, including a portion
charter schools statewide this year.
a relationship that helps students rise above
of Pearland near Pearland Parkway. The
challenges to succeed in school and life.
district was awarded “Recognized” status
also
earned
TXSmartSchools’
highest
in July of 2011 in State Accountability
In addition, Pearland ISD continues to be one of the largest Houston-area districts
Through diverse education options and
Ratings released by the Texas Education
with all schools graded “B” or above in
supportive
Agency. All of the district’s 58 schools
36
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
teachers
and
community,
earned an Academically Acceptable rating. Of the 58 schools, 41 were rated either “Exemplary” or “Recognized.”
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college preparatory curriculum to a diversified student body of approximately 900 students in grades PreK3-12th. Over 99% of
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its graduates continue into post-secondary educational institutions. LSA is accredited in accordance with the Texas Education Agency, AdvancED, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Lutheran South employs only certified teachers, many having Master Degrees or beyond. LSA also offers a licensed before and after school care program for their students. LSA is a member of the Texas Association
12555 Ryewater Dr., Houston, TX 77089 281.464.8299
•
www.lutheransouth.org
of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS), and regularly sends athletic teams to district and state playoff competitions. The athletic program includes a wide range of individual and team sports. There are also opportunities for students to participate in TAPPS competitions in Art, Band, Choir and various academic disciplines. LSA is located
St. Helen Catholic School Archdiocese of Galveston Houston
Enrolling Students in PK3-8 All Year
off I-45 South near Dixie Farm Road. Primrose Schools of Pearland www.primroseschools.com The Primrose Experience: Building the Right Foundation for Future Learning and Life. Choosing the right care for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. At the end of the day, it comes down to entrusting the care of your child to a provider that will give you peace of mind and give your child the best possible experience. Primrose Schools is an accredited early childhood education preschool that offers a premier educational child care experience for families across the country. The
VEstablished in 1997 VSafe, Technology Secured Classrooms VSchool Mass Every Friday morning
VEminent Sports & Educational Facilities VBefore and After School Programs VCampus Clubs & Athletic Programs
The mission of St. Helen Catholic School is to
“grow children in wisdom, age and grace.”
2213 Old Alvin Rd., Pearland, TX 77581 | P: 281-485-2845 | F: 281-485-7607 | www.SHCSsaints.org HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
37
T E X A S 2 8 8 H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
Photo courtesy Brazosport ISD
Photo courtesy Dawson High School
Primrose Experience starts with fostering
high-quality educational experiences that
was 210 students, almost 400 St. Helen
a strong connection and partnership with
support children’s development as well-
Saints enrolled in 2017.
parents to help build the right foundation
rounded individuals. The Balanced Learning
for future learning and success in school
curriculum addresses children’s social-emo-
This growth has called upon the gener-
and in life.
tional,
physical
osity of the St. Helen Parish community
development as they determine what expe-
to assist SHCS with housing the growing
For the last fifteen years Mr.& Mrs. Papa-
riences children need at different age levels.
student body and they responded gener-
dopulos have been the franchise owners
The curriculum is reviewed and updated
ously. After celebrating the school’s 20th
for Primrose Schools of Pearland, Prim-
annually to ensure continued alignment with
anniversary a new, educational facility
rose School of First Colony, and Primrose
early learning standards.
opened in 2017.
The Standards of Excellence. Primrose
The new 75,000 sq. ft. facility is well-
Schools holds schools to high standards
equipped with a large gym and cafeteria,
of excellence with the implementation of
spacious classrooms, a media center, tech-
quality assurance and continuous improve-
nology lab, and two large science labs.
ment
State-of-the-art
School of Upper Kirby. They have provided for the Pearland, Sugar Land, and Houston families a nurturing environment where children are happy, safe and having fun while learning. What makes the Primrose Experience unique? The People and Culture. One reason parents choose Primrose is because they know they are leaving their children with qualified, caring people. The management team members and teachers exceed expectations by creating and maintaining trusted relationships with every family they serve, and share their vision: To deliver the best and most trusted early childhood education and child care services for families across America.
cognitive,
through
creative
an
and
internal
Service
safety
equipment
has
Excellence Assurance program and an
been installed in the completely enclosed
external AdvancED Corporation Systems
campus. Aesthetically pleasing, the facility
Accreditation which ensures each school’s
will enable the St. Helen family to continue
adherence to AdvancED Standards for
to “grow” the total child, spiritually,
Quality Early Learning Schools.
emotionally, and socially.
St. Helen Catholic School www.SHCSsaints.org 281-485-2845
Their History - STCS is a short, but
The mission of St. Helen Catholic School (SHCS) is to “grow children in wisdom, age and grace.” Joyfully following this
successful story. Founded in 1996 through the vision and generosity of the parishioners of St. Helen Catholic Church, SHCS has grown into one of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston’s premiere Catholic Schools from its humble beginnings
mission has enabled SHCS to also grow
of only 50 students in 1997. At that time,
The Balanced Learning System. The Prim-
tremendously in student numbers during
the members of the St. Helen commu-
rose Balanced Learning System provides
the past six years. Total enrollment in 2011
nity envisioned teaching Catholic values,
38
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Primrose Schools of Pearland YOUR CHILD’S PATH TO EDUCATIONAL DISCOVERY BEGINS HERE We believe who children become is as important as what they know. For over 30 years, Primrose Schools has helped empower children like yours to reach their full potential. Our exclusive, time-tested Balanced Learning approach was created from the best early education wisdom of balancing pu r poseful play and nu r tu r ing guidance to encou rage curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Proprietary Curriculum: Research-informed and time-tested Training: We train our people to be the best Equipment: From tables and chairs to toys and books, every piece of equipment is chosen for a purpose
health; and compassion, kindness and life skills continuously throughout the day. Your Child’s Path to Educational Discovery Begins Here Every stage of your child’s education is filled with age-appropr iate, enr iching exper iences led by our passionate, committed and caring staff. Infant to Preschool Classrooms: Inspiring curiosity and wonder in the Primrose Wonder Program. Preschool through Kindergarten Classrooms: Encouraging children to venture out and discover the world around them in the Primrose Venture Program.
Assessment: Highly personalized and tailored to each age level We know that a child’s interests can lead to exciting exploration, discovery and understanding of the world. That’s why our proprietary curriculum integrates language and literacy; science, technology, engineering, creative arts and math (STEAM); social studies; music; physical development and
After School Care for ages 5 to 10: Stimulating continued exploration of a child’s individual interests in the Primrose Explorers Program. F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N C A L L O R V I S I T O N E O F O U R LOCATIONS
FACT:
There are valuable lessons involved in learning how to use a microscope. BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:
Including how to share. SEE BALANCED LEARNING IN ACTION. CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY! Primrose School of Pearland 713.436.4120 | PrimrosePearland.com Primrose School of Pearland Parkway 281.997.8855 | PrimrosePearlandPkwy.com Primrose School of West Pearland 713.436.0404 | PrimroseWestPearland.com
Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2018 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
T E X A S 2 8 8 H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
strengthening students in the Catholic
Facebook. Join them as they grow our
in the United States for the fourth time in
faith, and teaching students and staff to
“saints” in wisdom, age, and grace!
2017. The college also posted its highest
witness to the presence of Jesus Christ in
enrollment ever in Fall 2017.
the world. Currently, the school continues to promote and adhere to their ideals with a culturally-diverse community composed of the clergy, parishioners, parents, students, school personnel, and all persons who help to fulfill the school’s mission. St. Helen Catholic School (SHCSsaints.org) promotes high, rigorous, and traditional academic standards within a Christ-centered,
After receiving designation as a Hispanic
UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES
Serving Institution from the Department of Education, the college received a five-year, $3.8 million grant to increase participation
Alvin Community College www.alvincollege.edu • 281-756-3500
in Science, Technology, Engineering and
Since classes officially began in September
been used to improve student success in
1949,
Developmental Math and boost enrollment
Alvin
Community
College
Math (STEM) programs. Grants funds have has
provided southeast Texas with 69 years of exceptional educational opportuni-ties,
spiritual environment. The campus is dually
pathways to rewarding careers and personal
accredited by AdvancED (formerly Southern
enrichment programs. Although the tradi-
Association of
Schools) and TCCBED
tional view of a college is to prepare high
(Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops
school graduates for pro-fessional careers,
Education Department, in conjunction with
there is so much more to ACC.
ACC classes are also available at Alvin ISD Shadow Creek High School and the University of Houston-Clear Lake Pearland campus. Courses in the day and evenings include: College Algebra, Composition I and II, Federal Government, Principles of
the Texas Education Agency). SHCS enrolls all year long for grades PK3-8th grades.
in the Process Technology program.
ACC has been ranked by many organiza-
Macroeconomic, General Psychology and
tions as among the best community colleges
United States History I and II.
Contact the school at 281-485-2845 with
in the nation. It was named by the Aspen
questions, visit www.SHCSsaints.org or
Institute as a Top 150 Com-munity College
“We are very excited to be able to offer classes convenient to Pearland residents,” ACC President Dr. Christal M. Albrecht said. “Both locations will bring higher education closer to those in our taxing district and service area. The partnerships with Alvin Independent School District and University of Houston Clear Lake are very
Endless
rewarding and offer win-win educational
Possibilities
opportunities for our communities.” In 2018, the college plans to expand its offerings to include courses at the Alvin ISD J.B. Hensler College and Career Academy. With Dual Credit and Dual Degree students
Now offering classes at three convenient locations!
as young as 13, ACC partners with area school districts including Alvin, Pearland, Danbury and Living Stones Church to help give motivated teenagers a head start in
Alvin Community College-Main
Shadow Creek High School
University of Houston Clear Lake-Pearland
3110 Mustang Rd Alvin, Texas 77511
11850 Broadway St Pearland, Texas 77584
1200 Pearland Pkwy Pearland, Texas 77581
college and toward their career goals. ACC provides quality instruction to adults of all ages who wish to change careers, improve their job skills or just challenge themselves. To make getting a degree easier, ACC also offers more
EOI
40
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
than 100 online courses. There are four Associate Degree programs and one
certificate program that can be earned
one of a handful of colleges and universities
Brazosport College offers a Bachelors Degree
entirely online. Associate Degrees now
to take part in the Second Chance Pell Grant
in Applied Technology (BAT), which includes
available online are those in the Arts,
program, which offers funding for students in
a BAT in Industrial Management and a BAT
Sociology, Psychology, and Management
correc-tions programs to earn a higher educa-
in Health Services Management. Students
Development. A certificate is availa-ble
tion degree or certification. Research has
seeking certification or a degree in an occupa-
for management.
shown that an education reduces the recidi-
tional/technical field will find courses leading
vism rate for those leaving correc-tions.
to an Associate of Applied Science degree in
The Department of Continuing Education and Workforce Development (CEWD)
Whether it’s preparing for a career or
provides programs that incorporate current
starting a college education, ACC offers
and new technical courses; training part-
students and the community the resources
nerships with business and industry; and
they need to achieve their goals. Call ACC
other opportunities for individuals to
at 281-756-3500 or www.alvincollege.edu
acquire and upgrade skills or seek personal Brazosport College in Clute
programs that allow students to further or
www.brazosport.edu • 979-230-3000
including health care, professional services, industrial arts and more.
offers degree or certificate options in the ADN and LVN healthcare fields, as well as a variety of additional programs. The process technology program offered at Brazosport College enables students to build
enrichment. CEWD provides a variety of begin new careers in a number of fields
a wide range of disciplines. The college also
Located in Lake Jackson, Texas, Brazosport College offers a broad range of courses that address diverse educational objectives.
For more than 50 years, ACC has been
Those students planning to pursue a bache-
providing education for inmates with the
lor’s degree can enroll in academic classes,
Texas Department of Criminal Justice. It was
as well as courses in major fields of study,
the first college in Texas to do so. ACC was
which will transfer to four-year schools.
skills to be successful in the chemical industry, but also provides stu-dents with skill sets that will broaden their career opportunities. In 2012 and 2014, The Aspen Institute ranked Brazosport College among the top 10 community colleges in the United States. Most importantly, Brazosport College is committed to students’ success and has implemented initiatives to assist students in
Brazoria County chooses Brazosport College Online Degree Opportunities | Affordable Education
www.brazosport.edu | 979.230.3000
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
41
T E X A S 2 8 8 H O U S T O N E D U C AT I O N
Photo courtesy of Alvin Community College
achieving their goals. Through endeavors made possible by the Brazosport College Foundation and Achieving the Dream, a variety of programs are available utilizing partnerships between the college and the community it serves to assure student success. Brazosport College is located conveniently close to the communities of Angleton, Clute, Freeport, Richwood, West Columbia, Sweeny, Brazoria and Surfside Beach. The campus is only 45 minutes away from Houston and Galveston. To learn more about Brazosport College, visit the college Web site atbrazosport.edu or call (979) 230-3000 Houston Community College South Campus www.hccs.edu • 713-718-6858
The campus is expanding to meet the growing needs of communities in Houston’s south and southeast areas. Public spaces and recreation areas are in the planning stages for the campus, which also is accessible via convenient METRO bus service to all points in Houston. One of the newest features of the South Campus is the Workforce Building located next to South Campus’ existing Willie Lee Gay Hall. South Campus also is home to the award-winning South Early College H.S. (SECHS). This specialized HISD high school focuses on STEM careers, and draws students from across the district.
42
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
University
in
in Management; Bachelor of Science in Criminology; Bachelor of Applied Science in Informational Technology; Bachelor of Science in Psychology; and Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with EC-6 generalist certification. Graduate degrees offered include Master of Arts in Behavioral Science-General; Master of Arts in Criminology; Master of Arts in Psychology; Master of Science in Counseling with School Counselor Certification; and Master of Science in Educational
University of Houston - Clear Lake www.uhcl.edu • 281-283-7600
Hous-
The University of Houston-Clear Lake named Ira K. Blake as the university’s
their dreams come true. The 40-acre
fifth president. Blake joins the university
wooded area on Pearland Parkway is the
after having served as provost and senior
perfect campus setting for a new Science &
vice president for Academic Affairs at
Research Building currently under construc-
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
tion. The facility is slated to open in 2019.
since 2009.
Undergraduate
the
Prior to serving at Bloomsburg, Blake was
in
associate vice chancellor for academic and
degrees
Bachelor
of
of
Science
ton-Clear Lake Pearland Campus to make
following:
chose
of
or Special Education Certification.
More than 750 students during fall 2016 semesters
Bachelor
General Business; Bachelor of Science
Management with Principal Certification
University of Houston-Clear Lake / Pearland Campus www.uhcl.edu/pearland • 281-212-1690
Houston Community College’s South Campus is a great place to start, continue or enhance an educational journey. Conveniently located at 1990 Airport Boulevard just off Texas Highway 288 South at Airport, students begin essential coursework leading to an Associate’s degree, workforce certification, or trans-fer credits to a four-year institution. HCC also offers highquality GED and adult education courses.
Accounting;
include Science
student affairs for Pennsylvania’s State
Being an authorized partner ensures that
dynamic interactive classroom – enabling
System of Higher Education at Dixon
the students have the highest quality
students to study from work, home or a New
University Center as well as assistant to the
training materials and train on the latest
Horizons center.
president for public engagement at Kutz-
products
town University.
Courses provided fall into categories like
New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based
desktop applications, technical training
lab solutions as well, allowing students to
and professional development.
access their labs anytime and anywhere.
She holds a doctorate and master’s degree from
in
developmental
Columbia
psychology
University
and
and
technologies
available.
The state-of-the-art, fully-configured live
a
Flexible Training Approach Based on
lab environment provides students hands-on
second master’s degree in educational
Learner Needs - They understand that
access to the systems and applications
psychology from San Francisco State
not everyone’s learning needs or preferred
taught in the classrooms, empowering them
methods are the same. Therefore, their
to learn on their own schedules.
University. Blake received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from George Washington University. University
of
Houston-Clear
Lake
flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy
A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons
specific needs.
is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for training quality and customer satisfaction
represents a dynamic force in modern
Learning
Online
as reported by an independent third-party
education, offering undergraduate, grad-
ANYTIME, on-site training, private classes
learning and quality assurance company,
uate and doctoral students a close-knit,
and Online LIVE. Online Live removes
Knowledge Advisors. Plus, research shows
academic
a
geographical boundaries from learning by
that New Horizons training yields a 4:1
student population of more than 8,600
bringing students and instructors together
benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager
students. The university has three build-
synchronously in a virtual real-time class-
surveys regarding the improved performance
ings under construction; the STEM and
room environment. This program provides
and productivity of their employees immedi-
Classroom Building and Recreation and
students all of the benefits of being in a
ately following New Horizons training.
community.
UHCL
has
methods
include
Wellness Center at UHCL, and the Health Sciences
and
Classroom
Building
at
UHCL Pearland Campus. 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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
43
in this section retirement communities independent care assisted living memory & extended care
44
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
ACTIVE ADULTS
+ senior living While the options for living and playing are evolving to meet the changing demands of today’s active seniors, families should carefully approach senior relocation with preparation, sensitivity and patience.
There are just over 40 million Americans
an emotional passage that requires both
of this growing group of people. From
age 65 and older today, accounting for 13
patience and lots of preparation.
upscale retirement communities that offer an
percent of the population. By 2030, when all the baby boomers will have passed age 65, the over-65 crowd will reach 20 percent of the population. The average life expectancy for a 65-year-old American is 17.7 years for a male, and 20.3 years for a female.
an overwhelming process, with or without the help of family members. Leaving their
home,
friends,
and plans, and very often, the energy to
array of housing, activity, exercise and social options, to full-care facilities that care for
pursue them. Retiring Baby Boomers are
people with mental and physical disabilities,
mobile and connected to technology, much
and every-thing in between, there is a senior
like younger generations are today. In retire-
living solution to fit every desire and need.
ment, they want to spend leisure time with
For seniors, rightsizing and relocating is
behind
Today’s seniors have many options, dreams
church,
their adult children and grand kids, travel,
TAKING STOCK
socialize and engage in all sorts of activi-
To narrow an overwhelming list of choices
ties. Active and independent is their motto; rocking chairs can wait.
and to help you choose the best one, put some time into the stock-taking process
favorite restaurants, doctors, decades of
And the options for living and playing are
by taking a personal inventory of living
memories, furniture, art and keepsakes is
also evolving to meet the changing demands
expenses, health, interests and expectations.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
45
A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G
SHOULD YOU GO, OR SHOULD YOU STAY? It is possible to retire in your own home by withdrawing some of the equity built up with a reverse mortgage; a type of home loan that lets a homeowner convert a portion of their equity into cash. A Home
• Would there be any money left over from the purchase of a new home that could be safely invested? • 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?
Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) for Purchase (H4P) is a federally insured loan
PACKING UP
program offered through FHA.
Before choosing a new home be realistic about your situation, expectations, your
With an HECM loan, if a homeowner lives
finances and health. Make sure the new
in the home and stays current on taxes and
community is one that you will enjoy, that
insurance, they do not pay a monthly mort-
it has convenient amenities and access to
gage payment which significantly improves
services, and that a new house will be a good
their cash flow. Retirees should plan for a
investment. It is as important to consider
larger monetary investment with an HECM
access to medical doctors and facilities as
loan and there are some restrictions. A mort-
it is to think about fun and leisure pursuits.
gage expert can answer questions about
Residents of the Texas 288 corridor have
HECM and other loans designed for retirees.
high quality health care centers close to home and quick access to the acclaimed
The best way to determine if a reverse mort-
Texas Medical Center.
gage is the best fit for your retirement plan is to honestly assess the following:
HOUSING OPTIONS
accommodate several generations. Leaving secondary bedrooms for children and an additional family room on the second floor. The goal of multi-generation design is to allocate the space and privacy each family member needs, while encouraging social interaction among family members. The place you choose should facilitate life at a level of independence that is comfortable and affordable. There are a wide variety of alternatives available for every level of activity, health and need.
ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING Healthy, independent seniors may want to live in a community where they can enjoy the company of others and their own personal interests. Active seniors in good health might opt for an age restricted independent living residential community with full amenities, a variety of home options including apartments, a golf course, dining rooms, and swimming pools.
Seniors relocating to a new city often live
A personal visit will give valuable, firsthand
with family members to be closer to their
information. Ask about health and fitness
grand kids, and to help busy young families
programs, organized activities, sporting
• What would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home?
manage hectic schedules. New homes with
options, and social opportunities. Other
two master suites on the first floor can easily
day-to-day living arrangements should also
46
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
• How much would the home sell for in today’s market?
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
be considered, such as shopping centers and grocery stores within easy walking distance, and
the
availability
of
transportation
services. Is the community located in proximity to major health care providers? More than three decades ago, Country Place in Pearland was developed for 55-plus residents with full amenities, including an 18-hole golf club. Today,
• Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it? • Are there fitness facilities onsite?
both physically and socially active. After millions of dollars in improvements the golf club is now open to the public.
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
ities and make an appointment with the administrator or director of nursing.
• Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable? • What healthcare and personal care services are available? • What preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations?
planned activities, clubs and events at the Country Place Clubhouse keep residents
facilities. Plan on visiting several facil-
• Is there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided?
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. Tuscany Village Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Pearland has achieved the highest rating of 5 stars from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES An Assisted Living Community (ALC)
A Continuing Care Retirement Community
bridges the gap for those who need assistance
(CCRC) offers care in a residential facility
with daily activities a nursing home might
for seniors, with a full menu of services and
offer, but wish to live independently. Resi-
living situations. Residents may go from
dents in an ALC are unable to live completely
independent living, to assisted living and
by themselves, but don’t need constant super-
nursing home care, depending on their indi-
vision. An ALC offers its residents assistance
vidual, changing needs and abilities.
with eating, bathing, dressing, laundry, housekeeping, and keeping track of medi-
CCRCs can be anything from high-rise
cations. An ALC is not a substitute for a
apartments, to cottages, townhouses or
nursing home, but rather is a stepping stone
single-family homes, and are an excellent
between complete independence and services
option for those who are independent and
provided by a nursing home.
Contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) at 800-458-9858 or www.dads.state.tx.us for more information.
ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES Seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia need specialized care. While some Assisted Living Communities offer services and separate facilities for residents with early onset symptoms, because of the progressive nature of the disease, it may become necessary to transfer the resident to another facility that
in good health, but might need some assistance with daily living needs or require
Often, an ALC will create an individ-
skilled nursing care.
ualized service plan for seniors upon
can give the right level of service.
admission, detailing personal services that
Facilities specializing in the care of Alzhei-
A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or
will be provided. This plan is then peri-
mer’s and dementia patients should provide
Communities) generally offers a contract
odically reviewed and updated to ensure
a treatment plan that considers not only the
that covers a continuum of care, including
changing needs are met.
Housing in an
resident’s medical needs, but also the needs
access to housing, services, and health
ALC may be studios or one-bedroom
of the entire family with social services,
care for more than one year, or the balance
apartments with small kitchen facilities.
professional consultations and individual-
of one’s life. There is a range of contract
Typically, ALC housing units have group
ized treatment reviews, all set within a calm,
options offered by CCRCs. Before signing a
dining facilities and common areas where
soothing environment that is sensitive to the
contract, conduct a thorough review of the
residents gather to enjoy social and recre-
needs of the patient. While relocating can
facility’s services, operations and finances,
ational activities.
be difficult for seniors the rewards are great.
and determine if it is appropriate to your
An afternoon fishing with a grandson,
needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also
NURSING CARE FACILITIES
attending a dance recital, or watching a
a good idea to ask a family attorney or
A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a
grandchild graduate from college, are all
accountant to review the contract. Some
state licensed, private-care facility that
priceless lifetime memories and well worth
points to consider include:
provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for
the hassles of relocating.
• Are pets allowed in your residence? • What social, recreational and cultural activities are offered?
residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home. Consult
The Texas 288 region offers a full range of
with a trusted doctor or health care prac-
senior living opportunities, for more informa-
titioner for recommendations of nearby
tion visit HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
47
in this section vehicles recycling & utilities home & community place of worship international relocation
48
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 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.
Moving to a new city or even across town
community and social organizations, area
can be over-whelming when it comes to
newspapers & magazines, and places to
setting up utilities, selecting a cable and/or
worship. Chambers of
satellite service, finding the best places to
Economic Development contact informa-
shop, choosing a recycling center, getting a
tion is in the Business Chapter.
Commerce and
driver’s license and registering your automobiles. While real estate professionals, mortgage lenders and insurance agents are ready to assist newcomers during the home buying processes, after closing there will be lots of things to do before you complete
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION METRO
(Houston’s
Metropolitan
Transit Authority) offers options for your
METROlift provides curb-to-curb rides to persons with disabilities. In order to make your drive easier, consider using select freeways’ convenient HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes which are available during peak periods for vehicles with two or more riders. For schedules, trip planners, commute calculators and route information, visit www.ridemetro.org or call 713-635-4000.
the move. There are many moving-related
commute. A carpool matching service and
AUTOMOBILES
resources available at HoustonNewcomer-
METRO Vans offer riders the opportunity
In Texas, you must buckle up. Children
Guides.com to help you settle in.
to share the journey and cost. Express
eight years old or younger, or shorter than
buses provide non-stop journeys to down-
4-feet-9-inches, must be secured in an
This chapter includes contact information
town, the medical center and other centers.
approved car seat. Texas law also requires
for Harris, Brazoria, Galveston and Ft. Bend
Park and Ride services are offered from
people who drive in Texas to pay for any
county offices, city offices, school districts,
locations all across Northwest Houston.
accidents they may cause. So, you must
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
49
R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
have automobile liability insurance, and
Steps, One Sticker” vehicle inspection and
to take the written test, the road test, and
must produce proof of it if stopped.
registration program in 2015. A blue-bor-
the vision test. For further information,
dered registration sticker will serves as a
DPS locations and hours of operation, call
automo-
combined proof of registration and inspec-
713-681-6187.
bile liability insurance law. If stopped for
tion with one expiration date. Passing
any reason, proof of liability insurance is
vehicle inspection will be a requirement to
A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is
required. The minimum liability limits are
renew a registration.
available from the General Services Depart-
Texas
enforces
a
mandatory
$30,000 for each injured person, up to a
ment, Texas Department of Public Safety,
total of $60,000 per accident, and $25,000
To register a vehicle, present the automo-
for property damage per accident. This basic
bile title and pay a new resident fee, a title
coverage is called 30/60/25 coverage. TexasSure is a verification system that tells law enforcement and county tax officials if you or the car you’re driving has auto liability insurance. For more information, visit TexasSure.com. All vehicles must be registered in the
fee, and the cost of new license plates. All
P. O. Box 4087, Austin, Texas, 78773 or www.dps.texas.gov
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 cost, and (4) proof of liability insurance.
SERVICES AND UTILITIES PUBLIC SAFETY POLICE For emergencies only, call 911.
If you are a resident of Texas and hold a
The Houston Police Department, other
valid driver license from another state, you
municipal police forces and the Harris
must obtain a Texas driver license within
County Sheriff ’s Department serve the
90 days of establishing residency. Proof
greater Houston area. Crime Watch programs
of registration, proof of insurance, your
operate all across Northwest Houston.
Social Security card or latest W-2, your
Contact your homeowner’s association or
tion renewals may be purchased at various
valid out-of-state license, and $16 in cash
civic club for information. Crime Stoppers,
locations. For a list of locations visit the
or check are required to obtain a Texas
offering rewards for information that leads to
county web page.
driver license. You will be required to pass
an arrest, can be reached at 713-222-TIPS.
county within 30 days of establishing residency. The cost is based on the model and year for cars and gross weight for trucks. Subsequent registration may be handled online or in person. Motor vehicle registra-
both the written test and the vision test. If you do not have a current Texas or out-of-
FORWARDING MAIL
The State of Texas stopped issuing inspec-
state license, or if you are changing the
To schedule a change of address, go to
tion stickers and transitioned to a “Two
class of your license, you will be required
www.USPS.com or pick up a change of
50
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TWO STEPS, ONE STICKER
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
address form from your local United States
these services are typically included in the
Houstonians have the “power to choose” an
Post Office. The Post Office will send a
homeowners’ association dues. Contact the
electric provider. Retail Electric Providers
confirmation verifying your forwarding
homeowners’ association for information.
(REPs) compete to sell electricity to homes
details. You can set both your forwarding
and businesses, and competing REPs may Curbside recycling is offered in most neigh-
offer lower prices, options for renewable
borhoods and drop-off recycling centers are
BEING GREEN CURBSIDE RECYCLING
energy, added customer services, and incen-
located throughout the area. For informa-
tives or promotions.
Most common acceptable waste includes
Recycling
paper, telephone books, cans, plastics
Calendar, visit: www.houstontx.gov.
start date and end date.
tion about Houston’s Curbside Automated Program
and
a
Recycling
1 and 2, and used motor oil. Rinse and
The Public Utility Commission recommends the three “C’s” before selecting a provider: contact, compare, and choose. PUC certifies all REPs. Be sure to allow several days
bags and package materials, and place the
UTILITIES GAS/ ELECTRICITY
recycle container on the curb by 7:00 a.m.
CenterPoint Energy is the primary provider
Used oil should be in the original container
hooked-up before the move-in date. If estab-
for natural gas in the Houston area. For infor-
lishing service for a new home or building, a
mation visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
permit or inspection may be required.
drain containers, remove lids, caps, plastic
or in a screw top non-detergent container.
for the ordering process so electricity can be
BAG-IT AND RECYCLE-IT Many local communities have Bag-It programs requiring yard trimmings to be placed in separate bags from trash and garbage. Place the bag at the curb on the regular garbage day to be collected. Limit contents to grass, leaves and small twigs; the bag cannot weigh more than 50 pounds and should be less than 4-ft. in length and 18 inches in diameter. Do not put anything into storm drains.
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS MATERIALS & ELECTRONICS HHMs are accepted at Pearland recycling
Where do you live? The Texas 288 corridor falls within Harris, Brazoria, Galveston and Fort Bend Counties. Legal records maintained by these counties include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings, DBAs, taxes and more. Contact the county of residence for specific services offered. Harris County Court House 201 Caroline, Houston, TX 77002 713-755-6411 / harriscountytx.gov
center Tuesday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to
South Belt Annex (Scarsdale)
5:00 p.m. and on Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00
281-464-0115
p.m. Items accepted include: flammable oil
Brazoria County Courthouse
based paint, paint products and refinishers,
printers, printer cartridges, and cell phones.
County Clerk’s Office 111 E. Locus, Suite 200, Angleton, TX 77515-4678 979-864-1355 brazoria-county.com
There is a charge for recyclers not living In
Tax Assessor Collector
Brazoria County. 281-489-2795.
Ro’vin Garrett, RTA 281-756-1320
TRASH PICKUP AND RECYCLING
Real Property Records
pool chemicals, corrosives, acids and cleansers, batteries, motor oil, filters and cooking oil, latex paint, antifreeze, computers, monitors,
Most municipalities provide trash pickup. Call the Solid Waste Management Department to find out on which day garbage and light trash is collected in your area. Some
1524 E. Mulberry, Angleton TX 77515-4678
Sub-offices: Alvin 260 George Street 281-331-3692
Manvel/W. Pearland 7313 Corporate Dr. 281-756-2450
Pearland County Clerk’s Office 2436 South Grand 281-412-3399
Brazosport 309 Plantation 979-297-5023
West Columbia 111 N. 10th Street 979-345-5914
Galveston County Court House 722 Moody Avenue, Galveston, TX 77550 409-766-2284 galvstoncountytx.gov
Fort Bend County Tax Office 301 Jackson Street. Richmond, TX 77469 281-342-3411 fortbendcountytx.gov
subdivisions opt to contract with local garbage collection companies, and fees for
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
51
R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
CABLE/SATELLITE
Texas 288 area and services vary. Contact
property on January 1 of the current tax
Several providers offer satellite and cable
your city of residence or homeowner’s asso-
year, and have filed a Homestead Exemp-
television, as well as high-speed internet.
ciation to set up water and sewer services.
tion Affidavit annually with the county tax assessor’s office.
Ask about bundled services, special promotional rates and discounts for newcomers.
HOME & COMMUNITY HOAS
Depending on where you live there may be
Homeowner associations typically establish
VOTER REGISTRATION
other services available.
and enforce deed restrictions. All homeowners
You must be 18 years old, a resident of the
and property owners are required to be
county in which you’re registering and a
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Among other things, deed restrictions are
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written land-use and building-type agree-
trars Office, the Secretary of State’s Office,
Comcast’s network upgrade to an all-digital
ments that prevent homes and lots from being
many post offices, libraries and high schools.
platform. You can even choose your own
converted to commercial establishments.
Submit your application no later than 30 days
Voice
service
made
possible
convenient two-hour appointment window.
prior to an election to vote. Contact the Texas
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Homeowners become automatic members
Secretary of State at 1-800-252-VOTE or visit
Security, Control, Energy and Peace of
of the association when they acquire title to
www.votetexas.gov.
Mind At Your Fingertips. For more infor-
property in the neighborhood.
PET LICENSING/LEASH LAWS
mation visit www.xfinity.com/moversedge or call 1-877-500-6828.
HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION
Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated
The Texas Homestead Exemption law
against rabies by four months of age. They
WATER AND SEWER
applies to property tax levies. All home-
will need a booster after a year, and every
Water, sewer and drainage services are typi-
owners in Texas can claim a yearly
one to three years after that. Any veteri-
cally provided by the public works depart
exemption of 20 percent of the total
narian can administer vaccinations and
of each city or municipal utility district
assessed
provide license tags, as well as information
(MUD). There are several districts in the
To qualify, owners must have title to a
value
of
their
homesteads.
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52
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
1/14/16 1:47 PM
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
Recreation 979-297-4533 Municipal Court 979-297-1031 Library 979-415-2590 Post Office 210 Oak Dr S. 800-275-8777
MANVEL
HOUSTON City Hall 900 Bagby Mayor Sylvester Turner City Controller Fire Department Municipal Court Police Department
713-837-0311 713-837-0331 832-393-3460 713-247-5000 713-247-5228 713- 884-3131
ALVIN City Hall 216 West Sealy Mayor Paul Horn Fire Department Municipal Court Police Department Post Office 455 E. House
281-388-4200 281-388-4278 281-331-7688 281-388-4250 281-388-4370 281-585-3306
ANGLETON City Hall 121 S. Velasco 979-849-4364 Mayor Jason Perez 979-849-4364 Fire Department 979-849-1265 Fire/EMS 979-415-2710 Municipal Court 979-849-2471 Police Department 979-849-1265 Recreation Center 979-849-0410 Public Works 979-849-4364 X318 Post Office 100 Cannan 800-275-8777
FRIENDSWOOD City Hall 910 S Friendswood Dr Mayor Kevin Holland Fire Department Municipal Court Police Department Post Office 310 Morningside Drive
281-996-3200 281-996-3270 281-482-0085 281-996-3252 281-996-3300 800-275-8777
LAKE JACKSON City Hall 25 Oak Drive 979- 415-2400 Mayor Joe Rinehart 979-415-2500 Public Work 979-415-2430 Police 979-415-2700 Civic Center 979-415-2600
City Hall 6615 FM 1128 Mayor Debra Davison Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Police Department Municipal Court Brazoria County Library Post Office 6825 Masters Road
281-489-0630 281-489-0630 281-489-6144 281-489-1212 281-489-1229 281-489-7596 800-275-8777
PEARLAND City Hall 3519 Liberty Drive 281-652-1600 Mayor Tom Reid 281-652-1654 Neighborhood Center 281-485-1987 Emergency Medical Service 281-652-1951 Fire Department 281-652-1950 Library 281-485-4876 Melvin Knapp Senior Center 281-485-9875 Municipal Court 281-997-5900 Police Department 281-997-4100 Stella Roberts Recycling Center 281-489-2795 Service Center 281-652-1900 Post Office 3519 E Walnut St. 800-275-8777 Post Office Cullen Blvd. 800-275-8777 Keep Pearland Beautiful 281-489-2795
281-485-9800
U. S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: District 14-Randy Weber District 22-Pete Olson
979-285-0231 281-486-1095
COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Adult Reading Center 281-485-1000 Angleton Area Emergency Medical Corps 979-849-3547 Big Brothers Big Sisters 713-271-5683 Boy Scouts of America 409-744-5206 Brazoria County Fair 979-849-6416 Brazoria County Women’s Center: Alvin 281-585-0904 Angleton 979-849-2500 Freeport 979-233-7174 Pearland 281-485-0934 West Columbia 979-345-5014 Emergency 800-243-5788 Christian Helping Hands 281-485-9776 Exchange Club of Pearland 832-221-2679 Forgotten Angels Foundation 834-243-5925 Resale Shop 832-243-6463 Girl Scouts of America 713-292-0300 Knights of Columbus 281-485-8960 United Way of Brazoria County 979-849-9402
NEWSPAPERS/MAGAZINES
979-265-3953
979-864-1548
281-331-3197
SCHOOL DISTRICTS
979-345-1130
281-756-1200
TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVES District 25-Dennis Bonnen District 29-Ed Thompson
979-848-1770 512-463-0707
U. S. SENATORS John Cornyn Ted Cruz
Larry Taylor, Senator District 11
Texas 288 South Newcomer Magazine 281-997-0279 Alvin Sun 281-331-4422 The Facts 979-237-0100 Friendswood/Pearland Reporter News 281-485-7501 The Journal Pearland/Friendswood Houston Chronicle 713-362-7211
BRAZORIA COUNTY Matt Sebesta, Jr., County Judge Donald Payne, Commissioner Pct. 1 Ryan Cade, Commissioner Pct. 2 Stacy L. Adams, Commissioner Pct. 3 David Linder, Commissioner Pct. 4
TEXAS STATE SENATOR
713-572-3337 713-718-3057
Alvin I.S.D. Angleton I.S.D. Brazosport I.S.D. Clear Creek I.S.D. Danbury I.S.D. Fort Bend I.S.D. Friendswood I.S.D. Houston I.S.D. Pearland I.S.D. Sante Fe I.S.D.
281-388-1130 979-864-8000 979-730-7000 281-284-9901 979-922-1218 281-634-1000 281-482-1267 713-556-6000 281-485-3203 409-925-3526
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
53
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. 54
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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.
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
• Request a credit card & debit card (ATM) when opening a bank account. • You will need a residential address, phone & place of employment, credit history.
HOUSING Apartment
Houston Apartment Association Q&A: www.haaonline.org • Prices for apartments are based on apartment size and number of bedrooms Rates typically include basic utilities (ask • Rental requirements include: a credit & security check. Texas Drivers license, passport, bank statement, proof of employment, and a deposit. • Rental applications may require your credit history, employment history, rental history and criminal history, and disclosure of legal status or proof of legal residency. • You are responsible for your lease for the entire term of your contract. • If you terminate your lease contract early, rent may be accelerated and additional charges can be levied against you. • Get any changes to your lease contract or term in writing. • Be sure to ask about pet deposits. • Apartment locators will help you find an apartment and their services are free.
Leasing a Home • Leasing a home is much like renting an apartment. • You might be expected to take care of the yard on a weekly basis, maintain the
property and abide by homeowner regulations. • You will pay all the utility bills (water, power, trash pickup & cable). • You will need a TX driver’s license, proof of employment, credit & personal references & a deposit consisting of the first & last month’s rent.
TAXES
State of Texas
Private Schools • HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax and property tax only.
• Houstonprivateschools.com
Internal Revenue Service
There are a variety of independent and faith-
• Privateschoolreview.com
Federal income tax for most workers is filed on April 15 of each year. There are numerous rules and regulations for expatriates, the following are resources to get you started. Your employer can also assist you. Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov
based private schools in the Houston area.
Realtor/Homes for Sale & Lease
EDUCATION
International Baccalaureate program and
Day Care:
might be better suited for children
www.HAR.com • You can check your credit score through your bank. • To purchase a home you will need a good credit score based on your credit history. • Report all of your income on your tax return as mortgage loans require proof of income - typically your IRS return. • You do not need a Realtor to purchase a home, but Realtors are trained to help you with pricing and other legal responsibilities. • Realtors use various sources including Multiple Listing Service to find homes. • Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.
www.childcarecenter.us
planning to later attend university
• Some centers only care for children until
outside the US.
New Homes/Builders/ Communities
• Child’s birth certificate, passport, social
Buying a home • You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com Realtors are independent and can help you locate a newly constructed home available from a variety of builders. Builder sales reps. work for the builder. If you are working with a Realtor, you should register your Realtor with the homebuilder when you arrive.
HEALTHCARE
Affordable Care Act www.healthcare.gov • If you are relocating to the U.S. for a job, the HR department will assist you with health insurance for your family. • To shop and compare health insurance visit the Affordable Care Act web page. • You will need your social security number, passport, health history, employer information, and a credit card.
• Enrollment is most cases is based on openings in certain grades. • Check with each school for enrollment requirements as they vary from school to school. • International schools offer the
they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5. Other schools offer Kindergarten.
IMMIGRATION VISA
• Will need your child’s birth certificate,
Most questions are answered on the U.S.
social security number, passport,
Citizenship & Immigration web sites below.
application.
Contact your Consulate about your coun-
• Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different
try’s requirements.
times of the day. Ask for referrals.
General How Do I Guides:
Public Schools
• www.uscis.gov
PK-12 Texas Education Association: tea.texas.gov • Required for children 6-18 years of age in USA. security number, transcript, doctor’s statement. • The Houston area has excellent public schools which serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade. • You can research individual school districts, schools, ratings and test scores at the Texas Education Association web site. Elementary school (grade 1 through 5 or 6), Middle school or junior high (up to grade 8 or 9), High school or senior high (up to grade 12).
College www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools
• www.uscitizenship.info Employment Visas: • www.travel.state.gov • www.uscis.gov Green Card: www.uscis.gov/greencard Permanent Residents: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov
PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.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
55
PLACES OF
WORSHIP
Half of Americans have looked for a new church or place of worship, most because they moved. Finding a church or place of worship for newcomers usually begins with a personal visit and introduction. When making a final choice, regular church goers most value quality of the sermons and feeling welcome, followed by the style of the service and location.* *Pew Research 2015
56
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
If faith is a vital part of your daily life,
Episcopal Church
281-482-7630
you should easily be able to find a spiritual
First Baptist Friendswood
281-482-7573
Friendswood Baptist Church
281-996-6880
St. Mary’s Syro Malabar Catholic
832-495-2848
tunities, educational options, and access to
Friendswood Friends Church
281-482-7821
groups with common interests. If you are
Good Shepherd Episcopal 281-482-7630
Vineyard Christian Fellowship
281-997-0722
looking to make new friends, a congregation
Hope Lutheran Church
281-482-7943
might be the perfect place to find them.
Lord of Light Lutheran
281-992-2168
Mary Queen Catholic Church
Central Assembly of God
979-849-1208
The Texas 288 Corridor has hundreds of
281- 482-1391
Christian Tabernacle
979-849-8649
churches and places of worship, some of
New Hope Church
281-604-4000
Reach Church Assembly
281-993-4500
Church of Christ Wilkins Street
979-849-6391
home in the Texas 288 area. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship also provide social support, volunteer oppor-
the churches have huge congregations while others have a hundred or fewer. All of them welcome newcomers through their doors.
ALVIN/MANVEL Alvin Church of Christ Alvin Church of The Nazarene
Southeast Church of Christ 281-992-2168 The Harbor
281-388-3500
Trinity Fellowship Church
281-482-0577
United Methodist
281-482-7535
281-331-3673
PEARLAND 281-331-0065
Alvin Lutheran Church
281-331-5457
Alvin Missionary Baptist
281-331-6726
Bayou Drive Baptist
281-585-8061
Christ Covenant Church
281-331-4619
City View Church
832-696-9805
Emanuel Worship Center
281-585-2773
Faith Community Church
281-331-1430
Faith Family Fellowship
281-331-3960
First Baptist Church
281-489-8514
First Christian Church
281-331-5825
First Presbyterian Church
281-585-3406
St. Andrews Episcopal Church
281-485-3843
St. Helen Catholic Church 281-485-2421
ANGLETON
Church of God Prophecy 979-267-0073 First Assembly of God
979-849-6112
First Assembly of God
979-849-6112
First Baptist Church
979-849-4311
First Presbyterian Church
979-849-5722
First United Methodist Church
979-849-6305
Calvary Baptist Church
281-489-7236
Chabad House Texas Medical
713-522-2004
Holy Comforter Episcopal 979-849-1672
City View Church 713-204-0692 Congregation Beth Israel 713-777-4315
Holy Trinity Catholic Church 979-849-2421 Second Baptist Church
979-849-7220
Crosspoint Church
St. John Lutheran
979-849-7253
Triumph Angleton
979-849-7361
Crossroads Community Church
281-485-1848 713-436-2211
Epiphany Lutheran Church 281-485-7833 First Baptist Church
281-997-9000
First Church of Pearland
281-992-4538
First Presbyterian Church
281-485-2977
First United Methodist Church
281-485-1466 281-489-0358
Good Shepherd Lutheran 979-849-2223
Westside Church of Christ 979-849-8376
BRAZOSPORT AREA Assembly of God
979-297-9541
Baptist Temple
979-849-3602
Brazosport Christian
979-265-3590
Chapelwood United Methodist
979-297-7991
Christ Lutheran Church
979-297-2013
Church of Brazosport
979-583-3791
First United Methodist Church
281-331-3482
Grace Episcopal Church
281-331-5657
Hindu-Sri Meenakshi Temple
Heights Baptist Church
281-331-8201
Hope Church Presbyterian 281-701-7536
Hope Church Presbyterian 281-701-7536
Majestic Christian Center 281- 997-1242
Living Stones Church
281-331-9517
New Life Lutheran Church 281-485-1818
New Hope Church
281-604-4000
Peace Presbyterian Church 713-436-5673
First Baptist of Freeport
979-233-5347
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Pearland Church of Christ 281-485-2436
First Baptist
979-297-2496
281-489-8720
Pearland Islamic Center
281-412-0478
First Presbyterian
979-297-3049
Revolution Center
832-561-5665
Grace Community
979-239-8635
Second Baptist Shadow Creek
713-465-3408
Second Baptist Church
979-297-6469
Shadow Creek Muslim Center
St. Mark Lutheran
979-297-2667
832-802-8131
St. Michael’s Catholic
979-297-3041
St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church
979-297-6003
The R.O.C.K. Brazosport
979-529-9396
Vineyard Church
979-297-4648
South Park Baptist Church 281-331-3902 St. John the Baptist Catholic 281-331-3751
FRIENDSWOOD Baybrook Baptist Church
281-996-1316
Calvary Houston
281-648-5800
Church of Christ
281-482-7966
Clear Creek Community Church
281-338-5433
Community Church
281-756-8655
Shadycrest Baptist Church 281-485-1481 Shepherd of the Heart Methodist
713-436-5080
Silverlake Community Church
281-997-6006
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
57
in this section finding a doctor medical moving tips medical center institutions
58
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
– SPRING/SUMMER 2018
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The greater Texas 288 area has grown in both size and population over the past 20 years. The everyday demands for high-quality healthcare are drawing skilled practitioners, service providers and medical facilities to the area.
Just 14 miles north of central Houston, the world-class Texas Medical Center is a 1,300acre “city of medicine” and employment center. About 11 percent of Texas Medical Center employees live in northern Brazoria County and southwestern Harris County. Pearland is home to the most workers.
hospital to open in Pearland; HealthSouth
Medicine on a site southeast of Memorial
Rehabilitation Hospital, and a Kelsey-Sey-
Hermann Hospital–established in 1925 and
bold Clinic are in the district. Houston
the first hospital in the Texas Medical Center.
Methodist Emergency Care Center is situated on FM 518 at Kirby Drive. Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital is located off Beamer on the east side of the
In recent years, the Texas 288 area has celebrated a variety of openings throughout the region, including hospitals, numerous emergency centers, a variety of specialized medical clinics and multi-story professional buildings. You will find major providers in the Shadow Creek Ranch Business District, west of Texas 288 between Shadow Creek Ranch Boulevard and FM 518. Memorial Hermann Health System’s Convenient Care Center and Memorial Hermann Pearland Hospital; HCA’s Pearland Medical Center, the first
region. Healthcare related businesses in the
Today, the Texas Medical Center is a major business district where planning, infrastructure, transportation and other issues are growing in importance. The 290 buildings in
Lower Kirby District, Kirby Drive north
the Texas Medical Center offer 45.8 million
of Shadow Creek Parkway, include Merit
gross square feet of space and 28,000
Medical Systems, Kelsey-Seybold head-
parking spaces.
quarters, Pearland Surgery Center, and Cardiovascular Systems. Lonza Houston,
TMC
employs
approximately
106,000
Inc., a Swiss pharmaceutical and biotech
employees and holds a prominent position
firm, is finishing up a clinical manufac-
in medical information—a critical edge
turing, research and development facility in
that attracts top researchers, academics and
the lower Kirby District.
physicians more than 20,000 MDs, PhDs
The Texas Medical Center
and researchers work at member institu-
Over 65 years have passed since the ground
tions. Collaborative projects extend locally
breaking in 1945 for Baylor College of
to Rice University.
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
REGIONAL HOSPITALS
The system’s ambulatory care network also
Memorial Hermann www.memorialhermann.org 713-272-1673
and Memorial Hermann Convenient Care
One of the largest not-for-profit health systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann is an integrated system that serves Southeast Texas and the Greater Houston community with 16 hospitals, including four in the Texas Medical Center, a level I trauma center, a hospital for children, one of the top two rehabilitation hospitals in the United States, an orthopedic and spine hospital along with ten suburban hospitals and two surgery centers. Memorial Hermann Life Flight® – is the largest and busiest air ambulance service in the United States.
includes Memorial Hermann Urgent Care Centers. Using its resources to advance the health of the community, Memorial Hermann contributes more than $451 million annually in uncompensated care and community benefit programs, including an award-winning network of public school-based health centers. Memorial Hermann Pearland Hospital brings the expertise of the Memorial Hermann Health System close to home, making the region’s top medical experts available to area. The hospital features advanced medical services and state-of-the-art technology used to
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.
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Services include Heart and Vascular and Women’s Care, including six well-appointed Labor, Delivery, Recovery & Postpartum suites, as well as Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Memorial Hermann Pearland lends support to Memorial Hermann’s role as the official healthcare provider of Pearland ISD Athletics. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, Getting Back to Life www.healthsouthpearland.com
families in the Pearland/Brazoria County
MOVING MEDICAL TIPS 1 2 3
60
address diverse healthcare needs, from quick outpatient visits to procedures requiring highly specialized inpatient care.
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What is a stroke? A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or burst. When this happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood – and oxygen – it needs, so it starts to die. A stroke can result in difficulties in moving around, performing daily activities, and talking or understanding. The type and extent of the difficulties depends on the size and location of the stroke. Know the signs. While a stroke can happen quickly, it is still important to understand the warning signs to get medical help immediately by calling 911. Every second counts, as time lost is brain lost. Stroke warning signs include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, or trouble with vision. What happens after a stroke? A stroke patient’s greatest gains are usually made in the first 30 days following the stroke. Studies indicate that 60 percent of stroke survivors can benefit from aggressive rehabilitation intervention. Eighty percent of those treated with aggressive rehabilitation can return to their homes, work, schools or active retirement. Where you go makes a difference. According to the recent adult stroke rehabilitation guidelines released by the American Heart Association*, whenever possible, stroke patients should be treated at an in-patient rehabilitation facility rather than a skilled nursing facility. While at an in-patient rehabilitation facility, a patient participates in at least three hours of rehabilitation a
HOUSTON METHODIST HOSPITAL IS THE ONLY NATIONALLY RANKED HONOR ROLL HOSPITAL IN TEXAS. Houston Methodist, throughout its long history, has focused on innovation that directly benefits our patients. We are national leaders in the delivery of health care, and others agree. Out of 4,667 hospitals, Houston Methodist Hospital ranks No. 19 in the nation and No. 1 in Texas. And for 10 years in a row, we’ve had more national rankings than any other hospital in Texas. Like past generations of Houstonians, we know that today’s best will not be good enough for tomorrow. Houston Methodist directs millions of research dollars into patient care and offers the latest innovations in medical, surgical and diagnostic techniques. We are pressing ahead toward a greater and grander vision, one that positions us to help shape the future of medicine. For a physician referral, visit houstonmethodist.org or call 713.790.3599.
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
day from physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. Nurses are continuously available and doctors typically
visit
daily.
An
in-patient
rehabilitation facility may be a free-standing facility or a separate unit of a hospital. When stroke happens, we’re here to help. Located at 2121 Business Center Drive in Pearland, HSRH of
Pearland, will
become Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Pearland in April 2018, can make a difference in the lives of stroke patients. Call 346 907-3028 to schedule a tour. *Source: American Heart Association, Inc. Pearland Medical Center PearlandMC.com 713-770-7000
Photo courtesy of Health South
Pearland Medical Center holds the distinction as the first hospital to open in the
Center, the HCA Healthcare Gulf Coast
and nearly 600 highly-qualified employees.
Pearland area. The hospital provides quality
Division also acquired Houston Northwest
The 158-bed hospital offers state of the art
healthcare services including surgical suites,
Medical Center, Cypress Fairbanks Medical
diagnostic and comprehensive treatment
imaging, a 24-hour emergency department
Center Hospital, Park Plaza Hospital,
services, an advanced cardiac care center and
and comprehensive cardiovascular services
and Plaza Specialty Hospital in 2017.
full service multidisciplinary cancer center.
with Pearland’s ONLY 24-hour cardiac
The division’s network now includes 14
catheterization lab and STEMI program
hospitals in the Houston area, making HCA
with an on-call team.
Houston’s largest health care provider.
HEALTHCARE NEWS
CHI St. Luke’s Health Brazosport
Science & Research Building, UH/CLC Pearland
Gulf Coast Division family offers Pearland
CHI St. Luke’s Health Brazosport in Lake
UHCL has started construction of a $24.6
Medical Center patients access to the best in
Jackson is the only Level III Trauma Center
million Heath Sciences and Classroom
high-quality health care. In addition to the
in Brazoria County. Brazosport Regional
Building on the Pearland Campus. Slated
acquisition of Tomball Regional Medical
includes over 100 board-certified physicians
to open in 2019, the facility will offer
Pearland
Medical
Center’s
strong
relationship with the HCA Healthcare’s
RN-to-BSN
FINDING A DOCTOR The following is list of local and national physician resource, - where you can search for general practice physicians by location, specialty, and more. American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician resource under the “Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is comprehensive site for health-related news, questions, and other topics. www.aap.org • www.healthychildren.org Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across the state, as well as information on general health resources; go to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org
and
Licensed
Professional
Counselors programs. Plans include a satellite operation of UHCL’s Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities. The 3-story, 69,539 square-feet building will feature a 100-seat tiered lecture hall, 3 60-plus seat classrooms, learning classrooms, computer teacher labs, biology and chemistry labs, simulated hospital rooms, nurses’ and pharmacy stations, and general offices. Nationwide, healthcare jobs are expected to grow 26 to 35 percent by 2020, the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, making healthcare the fastest growing segment.
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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LIST OF MEDICAL SCHOOLS & CENTERS Baylor College Of Medicine....713-798-4951 One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030
Rice University............................713-348-0000 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005
Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital .................... 713-704-5437 6411 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030
Ronald Mcdonald House.........713-795-3500 1907 Holcombe Boulevard Ouston, TX 77054
Menninger Clinic....................... 713-275-5000 12301 Main Street, Houston, TX 77035
St. Dominic Village ..................713-741-8700 2401 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77021
Michael E. Debakey High School For Health Professions..................... 713-741-2410 3100 Shenandoah Street, Houston, TX 77021
CHI St. Luke’s Hospital .............832-355-1000 6720 Bertner Avenue, Houston, TX 77030
Michael E. Debakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center ........................ 713-791-1414 2002 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030
Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center .............................713-790-1200 1400 Laconcha Street, Houston, TX 77054-1802
Harris County Hospital District... 713-566-6400 Ben Taub General Hospital .... 713- 873-2000 1504 Taub Loop, Houston, TX 77030 Quentin Mease Community Hospital......................................713-873-3700 3601 North Macgregor Way, Houston, TX 77004
Harris County Institute Of Forensic Sciences.....................713-796-9292 1885 Old Spanish Trail, Houston, TX 77054 Houston Academy Of Medicine..............................713-524-4267 John P. Mcgovern Building, 1 515 Hermann Drive Houston, TX 77004-7126 Houston Academy Of Medicine Texas Medical Center Library ........... 713-795-4200 Jesse H. Jones Library Building, 1133 John Freeman Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030
Shriners Hospitals For Children..713-797-1616 6977 Main Street, Houston, TX 77030
Texas A & M University System Health Science Center Institute Of Biosciences & Technology........................... 713- 677-7700 2121 West Holcombe Boulevard Houston, TX 77030-3303 Texas Children’s Hospital ........832-824-1000 6621 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030 Texas Heart Institute ................832-355-4011 6770 Bertner Avenue, C550 Houston, TX 77030 Texas Medical Center .............713-791-6454 John P. Mcgovern Campus, 2450 Holcombe
Boulevard, Suite 1, Houston, TX 77021-2040 Texas Southern University College Of Pharmacy And Health Sciences ...................................713-313-7035 3100 Cleburne Avenue, Houston, TX 77004 Texas Woman’s University .......713-794-2000 Institute Of Health Sciences-Houston 6700 Fannin, Houston, TX 77030
TIRR Memorial Hermann (The Institute For Rehabilitation and Research).....713-799-5000 1333 Moursund Street, Houston, TX 77030 University Of Houston College Of Pharmacy ................................. 713-795-8380 1441 Moursund Street, Houston, TX 77030 University of Houston-Victoria Nursing ......................................361-570-4848 Various locations in Houston area University of St. Thomas............713-522-7911 3800 Montrose Houston, TX 77006 The University Of Texas ........... 713-792-2121 M.D. Anderson Cancer Center 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030 The University Of Texas Medical ....................................800-917-8906 Branch At Galveston............... 409-772-2222 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555
The University Of Texas Health Science Center At Houston..... 713-500-4472 7000 Fannin, Houston, TX 77030 Harris County Psychiatric Center........................................713-741-5000 2800 South Macgregor Way, Houston, TX 77021 Nora’s Home for Transplant Patients .....................................832-831-3720 8300 El Rio Houston, TX 77054 Texas Medical Center Library.713-795-4200 1133 John Freeman Boulevard 77030
Houston Community College System ........................713-718-2000 3100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002 Houston Hospice .....................713-467-7423 1905 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030 John P. Mcgovern Museum Of Health And Medical Science.............. 713-521-1515 John P. Mcgovern Building 1515 Hermann Drive Houston, TX 77004-7126 Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center ........................713-704-4000 6411 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030-1501 The Methodist Hospital ............713-790-3311 6565 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030 Prairie View A & M University College Of Nursing ..................713-797-7000 6436 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030
The Texas Medical Center - Credit: Jackson Myers
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in this section major employers local chambers of commerce Texas 288 Toll Road
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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BUSINESS &
COMMUNITY Major national and international firms with offices in the Texas 288 region employ thousands of workers and add billions of dollars to the economic diversity of Brazoria County and the State of Texas.
Major employers in the Texas 288 region include international chemical industry giants that bring billions of dollars to the state and thousands of jobs to the region. In lower Brazoria County, Dow Chemical Corporation is the largest single employer and recent expansion projects will add hundreds of jobs. Olin Corporation, Phillips 66, BASF Corporation, Schlumberger Technology, Ascend Performance Materials, INEOS Olefins, and Chevron Phillips Chemical, among others, have operations in the area.
construction,
tourism,
agriculture
and
The Port of Freeport offers chemical manufacturing and petroleum processing businesses quick access to world markets. Other important commodities handled by the port are clothing, fresh fruits and vegetables, rice, paper goods, project cargo, plastic resins, aggregate, autos, and windmill components. The estimated statewide economic impact of Port Freeport in 2015 was $46.2 billion.
Business relocating to the area will find an
been customized to the meet the needs of local
energized and friendly climate to start and
businesses and their international business part-
build a business. Area residents have higher
ners. The full-service hotel offers room service
than average annual incomes and a high
and other amenities.
The Texas 288 Corridor’s economic diversity includes manufacturing, healthcare, life sciences, energy, education, government, transportation, engineering and
retail. Unemployment is below the national
Maxx and HomeGoods joined the roster of stores prior to the opening.
average and close to the state average. Dallas-based Centennial, which operates The area’s north gateway, the intersection
seven regional malls outside of Texas,
of Texas 288 and Beltway 8, offers excellent
Atlantic Creek Real Estate Partners and
access to Central Houston, southwest and
North Shore Properties Group purchased
west Houston, the Petrochemical District,
the mall in 2016.
NASA and Hobby Airport. The Pearland area is home to the largest number of Texas
Courtyard by Marriott
Medical Center employers and has one of
Omkar Enterprises opened a $12 million Court-
the most diversified populations in the state.
yard by Marriott on an 8-acre tract adjacent to the mall. The four-story, 116-room hotel has
percentage are college educated. Rushi Patel, vice president of operations for
BUSINESS NEWS
Omkar, worked closely with the City of Lake
Brazos Mall in Lake Jackson
Jackson, Dow Chemical and other local busi-
The 41-year-old Brazos Mall in Lake
nesses to custom fit the hotel design. Unusual
Jackson re-opened in October following a
for Courtyard by Marriott, the hotel has a total
$25 million revitalization and rebranding.
of 6,500 square feet in meeting and event space,
Improvements include new retailers, a new
including a ball room with a pre-event bar. Visi-
logo and color scheme, new floors, seating,
tors and locals can get together at a comfortable
lighting and an updated food court.
lounge in a separate part of the hotel.
T.J.
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
TEXAS 288 SOUTH TOP EMPLOYERS The economy in the Texas 288 South area is thriving and growing rapidly. Due to its growth across various business sectors, it has been recognized as one of the most recession-resistant economies in the United States. Dow Chemical Corp. Alvin ISD Pearland ISD Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice The Infinity Group Brazosport ISD Brazoria County Olin Corp. Phillips 66 Angleton ISD BASF Corp. Schlumberger Technology Corp. Brock Group Excel TDECU
Source: Brazoria Economic & Development Alliance
City of Pearland Brazosport Regional Health System Ascend Performance Materials INEOS Olefins & Polymers USA Frontier Communication Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. Columbia-Brazoria ISD Mammoet Mundy Support Services
66
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Dow Chemical is completing a five-building research and development complex near the mall called the Texas Innovation Center. Dow has about 7,000 employees in the region.
Pearland Area Chamber of Commerce Commerce Center 6117 Broadway, Pearland, TX 77581 281-485-3634 • pearlandtexaschamber.us
IVY DISTRICT IN PEARLAND
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Development plans are back on track for the Ivy District, a 48-acre, $300-million residential and mixed-use development in the Lower Kirby District near Texas 288 and Beltway 8.
Alvin Economic Development City of Alvin 216 W. Sealy St., Alvin, TX 77511 281-388-4281 Alvin-TX.gov
Pearland Economic Development Corp is currently working with AMG to ensure infrastructure is in place before construction resumes. The Pearland City Council approved a development agreement with American Modern Green to extend South Spectrum Boulevard from Texas 288 to Kirby Drive. Two other roadways including a bridge over Clear Creek will be built by the developer. Road improvements include landscaping, lighting, and drainage. The City has already approved a waterline connection and public park. The Ivy District is part of the Lower Kirby Urban Center, a plan that the city of Pearland conceived in 2009 to bring pedestrian-friendly mixed-use developments, light manufacturing, office space, retailers and technology or research centers to the 1,200acre area near Texas 288 south of Beltway 8. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2018.
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Alvin-Manvel Area Chamber of Commerce 105 W. Willis, Alvin, TX 77511 281-331-3944 • alvinmanvelchamber.com Angleton Chamber of Commerce 222 North Velasco, Angleton, TX 77515 979-849-6443 • angletonchamber.org Brazoria County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 200 West 2nd Street, Suite #210 Freeport, TX 77541 979-233-2223 • bchispanicchamber.com Brazosport Chamber of Commerce 300 Abner Jackson Parkway, Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-285-2501 • brazosport.org Friendswood Chamber of Commerce 1100 S. Friendswood Drive Friendswood, TX 77546 281-482-3329 • friendswoodchamber.com
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Bazoria County Economic Development Alliance 4005 Technology Drive, Suite 1010 Angleton, TX 77515 979-848-0560 • eda-bc.com Friendwood Economic Development City of Friendswood 910 S. Friendswood Dr, Friendswood, TX 77546 281-996-3200 • friendswood.com Pearland Economic Development Corporation 11233 Shadow Creek Parkway, Suite 235 Pearland, Texas 77584 281.997.3000 • pearlandedc.com Manvel Economic Development Corp. 20025 Highway 6, Manvel, TX 77578 281-489-0630 • Cityofmanvel.com Lake Jackson Development Corp. 25 Oak Drive, Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-415-2500 • chooselakejackson.com
TOURISM & CONVENTION BUREAUS Alvin Convention & Visitors Bureau Alvin200 Depot Centre Blvd, Alvin, TX 77511 281-585-3359 • alvintexas.org Pearland Convention & Visitors Bureau 11200 Broadway St., Suite 1390 Pearland, TX 77584 713-436-5595 • visitpearland.com Clute Visitors Bureau 100 Parkview Drive, Clute, TX 77531 979-265-2508 • goclute.com Brazosport Visitors & Convention Council 300 Abner Jackson Parkway Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-285-2501 • visitbrazosport.com
UNDER CONSTRUCTION TX288 TOLL ROAD The Brazoria County Toll Road (BCTRA), Harris County and Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are moving forward on the Texas 288 Toll Road. Construction of the Harris County portion started in late 2016.
518 under the overpass. This project will greatly improve the capacity and efficiency of the FM 518/Texas 288 intersection. The City of Pearland has established a management district to improve the condition and maintenance of the Texas 288
BRAZORIA COUNTY
right-of-way and surrounding areas. This
Matt Hanks, Brazoria County Engineer
management district is working with both
Construction is underway! The long-awaited Brazoria County Expressway has officially entered the construction phase. Notice to Proceed was given to the contractor in July and construction activity can be seen the entire limits of the Brazoria County project. The construction should be completed in the summer of 2019. For updates and notifications regarding the Brazoria County Expressway; please visit the new website at BCExpressway.org.
part of the toll road project. The overall look
Brazoria County and the City of Pearland as of the corridor will improve tremendously once the project is completed. The Brazoria County section of the tolled managed lanes will be owned and controlled by Brazoria County.
HARRIS COUNTY SECTION Blueridge Transportation Group (BTG) is developing the longest and most difficult portion of the Texas 288 Toll Road within
The Brazoria County segment of the Texas 288 Toll Road will have two managed lanes in each direction beginning at the Brazoria County line/Clear Creek and extending south to approximately CR 58. The Brazoria County section has an estimated construction cost of approximately $100 million; construction will begin in Spring 2017 and should be completed by mid-2019. Brazoria County and TxDOT will also reconstruct the FM 518 interchange at Texas 288 as part of the Brazoria County project. Brazoria County submitted the project, with TxDOT support, to reconstruct the main lane bridges over FM 518 and widen FM
Drivers using Texas 288 should be alert and drive carefully at all times.
Harris County. The Harris County portion includes three major interchanges: Beltway 8, (8) direct connector/ramp bridges; Loop
Frequent drivers can check www.Drive288.com for construction alerts.
SEGMENT 1 (RED) From the North, begins about halfway between Almeda-Genoa Rd and Sam Houston Tollway (near Anderson Rd), ending just south of Sam Houston Tollway at Clear Creek (the Harris and Brazoria county line). Includes the Sam Houston Tollway/Beltway 8 interchange.
SEGMENT 2 (ORANGE) From the North, begins at Sims Bayou, ending about halfway between Almeda-Genoa Rd and Sam Houston Tollway (near Anderson Rd).
SEGMENT 3 (YELLOW) From the North, begins about halfway between Belfort and Reed Rd, ending at Sims Bayou.
610, (8) direct connector/ramp bridges; Texas
SEGMENT 4 (GREEN)
Medical Center, (2) direct connector/ramp segments will be completed by mid-2019.
From the North, begins at Holly Hall/Mainer St, ending about halfway between Belfort and Reed Rd. Includes the I-610 interchange.
The Harris County portion, a 10.3-mile
SEGMENT 5 (BLUE)
stretch from US 59 to the Harris County
From the North, begins at MacGregor Way/ Brays Bayou, ending at Holly Hall/Mainer St.
bridges. BTG estimates that the Harris County
line at Clear Creek, has six segments that are differentiated by the following colors and boundaries (map above).
SEGMENT 6 (BROWN)
Construction is heavy in some segments
From the North, begins at the US 59/I-69 and SH 288 split, ending at MacGregor Way/Brays Bayou.
and entrances/exits can change overnight.
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in this section attractions and family fun arts and culture sports and golf calendar of events
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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LEISURE & RECREATION
With Houston to the north, the Texas Gulf Coast to the south and an international airport just a few miles away, finding something exciting to do at a moment’s notice isn’t a problem. Among so many choices, choosing what to do is the problem!
There is always a new place to discover or
Picking strawberries on a family farm is an
with annual celebrations such as the Chinese
an experience waiting to happen in Hous-
annual event shared by generations, and
New Year, Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth and
ton’s lively districts, parks, sports centers
crawfish festivals are plentiful in the spring
LGBT Pride Parade.
and shopping malls. Houston’s appreciation
months. The only Mosquito Festival in the
for the performing and visual arts is most
USA is held in Clute just a few miles from
One of the best websites for finding out
visible in its acclaimed theaters, world-class
the Texas Gulf Coast.
about special events in Houston is www.
museums and refined art galleries. Houston is second only to New York City for the
Community theatres and local companies
number of theaters, and can boast profes-
perform classic and contemporary plays on a
sional resident companies in all the major
seasonal basis for loyal patrons. If art is your
performing arts disciplines.
inspiration, frequent art exhibits and juried shows feature local and regional artists.
The Texas 288 region has its own activities
visithouston.com, the official site of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau. The website includes a visitor’s guide, interactive maps, coupons and discounts, and
from international festivals and musical
As detailed on the following pages, Houston
itinerary ideas. One of its most popular
concerts to rodeos and fishing tournaments.
hosts annual events including the world’s
features is the Houston CityPass, which
There is even a wild life park with zoo
largest rodeo and the Art Car Parade. The
provides admission to 5 of Houston’s top
animals, a scuba lake and a water ski park.
city’s diverse personality shines through
attractions at a substantial discount!
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
Photos courtesy of Alvin Train Depot
TEX AS 2 8 8 S O U TH A T TR A CTIONS Alvin Train Depot www.alvintexas.org/historic-depot-center The fully restored Alvin Depot & Clock Tower is located on the Santa Fe mainline in downtown Alvin. Trains stopped at the depot from the early 1900s until 1960. The depot has a second life today as a special events venue and offices for the Visitors Bureau. Bayou Wildlife Park www.bayouwildlifezoo.com
River. 37 miles of trails are open to walking and cycling. The park has equestrian trails, but horses are not available. The park is the busiest in the spring and fall months and on mild winter days. Brazos Bend is famous for its wild alligator population. The George Observatory is part of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge www.fws.gov/refuge/Brazoria/visit/plan_ your_visit.html
Brazos Bend is one of the last remaining wild places open to the public in the greater Houston area. The park is approximately 5,000 acres of prairie, wetland and bottomland forest along the west bank of the Brazos
The Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge is part of the Texas Mid-coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which includes Brazoria, San Bernard and Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuges. Located east of Angleton and Lake Jackson, the refuge complex is a haven for both wildlife and people. For wildlife, the expanse of salt and freshwater marshes, sloughs, ponds, coastal prairies, and bottomland forest represent feasting and lodging for all or part of the year. For people, there is exceptional wildlife watching. The greater the number of habitats, the richer the ecology, the Refuge’s location on the Texas Gulf helps Freeport draw one of the highest Audubon Christmas bird counts in the nation - more than 200 species.
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The Bayou Wildlife Park in Alvin is one of only four zoos in the state of Texas. Visitors take a safari-like adventure through the park to see the animals in their natural habitats. Animals come from 19 different countries, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and North and South America. Brazos Bend State Park & George Observatory www.tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ brazos-bend
Center for the Arts & Sciences www.bcfas.org Located in Clute, the Center promotes the appreciation of art, natural science, theater, nature and music. The Center’s planetarium features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector to produce the night sky as it appears to the naked eye. High tech equipment gets up close views to comets, exploding stars, and black holes. Froberg’s Vegetable & Fruit Farm www.frobergsfarm.com Froberg’s Country Store is open year round seven days a week excluding major Holidays. Froberg’s offers homegrown fruits and vegetables along with produce from other areas. Froberg is famous for its homemade pies, fried pies, pickles, jellies, preserves, pralines, pecan brittle, peanut brittle, kettle and caramel corn. Strawberry picking typically starts in January and ends late May. Starting the last weekend in September until the first weekend in November, the farm adds a Corn Maze, Indoor Pumpkin Patch and Fall Festival with fun activities for the kids.
Haak Vineyards and Winery www.haakwine.co. Haak Winery in Santa Fe is the only commercial vineyard in Galveston County. Visitors can take tours and stay for tastings during business hours. Pear-Scape Trail www.visitpearland.com Visitors to Pearland can see the city and some beautiful 4-ft. pears painted by local
Sea Center Texas www.tpwd.texas.gov/fishing/ sea-center-texas The 75-acre center is a marine fish hatchery and aquarium. This education and entertainment facility includes the aquarium, red drum hatchery, and a wetlands walkway and exhibit. Stephen F. Austin Statue www.brazoriacountytx. govdepartments/parks-department/ munson-park-stephen-f-austin-statue
artists on the Pear-Scape Trail. 20 pears were uniquely designed for the trail. Pearwood Skate Center www.pearwoodskate.com Reminisce about the “good old days” of big hair and shoulder pads and enjoy a fun afternoon or evening of roller skating at Pearwood Skate Center in Pearland. Quad skates or in-line skates are included with your entry fee.
Stephen F. Austin-Munson Historical County Park represents a unique privatepublic partnership following years of community support for Brazoria County’s most famous resident, Stephen F. Austin, “the Father of Texas. Following a groundswell of support to honor Austin, local residents raised funds to construct the 72-ft. high statue and grounds. The park is the first county-run historic site and is open five days per week.
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site Museum www.thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/ varner-hogg-plantation-state-historic-site This Texas Historical Commission property is situated on 66 acres along the Brazos River in West Columbia. The site tells the story of the plantation’s 134-year history, including a majestic plantation house, pecan orchards, numerous outbuildings and other outdoor features. Sri Meenakshi Temple www.emeenakshi.org Sri Meenakshi Temple Society was established in 1977. Houston families took turns and performed daily poojas. University of Houston professor of architecture, Sri Ranjit Banerjee, developed the initial master plan for the first five acre tract, which included the main temple hall and Ganesh temple.
Stephen F. Austin Paddling Trail Paddle Brazoria County down the Brazos River There are four connecting trails along the Brazos River: in total 35.4 miles to paddle. For maps and trip details visit https://tpwd. texas.gov/fishboat/boat/paddlingtrails/ inland/
COLUMBIA BOTTOMLAND WATERWAY 8.3 mile stretch on the Brazos River through the impressive Columbia Bottomland forests.
SUGAR MILL STRETCH
OLD SETTLEMENT PASSAGE
GULF PRAIRIE RUN
10.4 mile route that offers views of historic bridges amongst the Columbia Bottomlands.
9.8 mile trail through Columbia Bottomland hardwoods toward Freeport
6.9 mile section gives paddlers an easy route.
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HOU S T ON A R E A A T TR A C T IONS Avenida Houston at Discovery Green www.avenidahouston.com
and covers approximately 1,466 acres inside the 610 Loop. The 18-hole Memorial Park Golf Course, Texas’ top-rated municipal
“Avenida” comes from Avenida de las Americas, the boulevard that fronts the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRBCC). The 97,000-square-foot Avenida Houston includes Discovery Green’s 12-acre park, public art installations, and two convention headquarter hotels; the Hilton Americas-Houston and the Marriott Marquis Houston. Avenida Houston skirts Houston’s active Sports District; Toyota Center and Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Rockets, Houston Astros and dozens of annual concerts. A few short blocks away, soccer fans can see the Houston Dynamo or Dash, the professional men’s and women’s soccer teams. Visitors will get a taste of why Houston is named the Culinary and Cultural Capital of the South with nearly 20 restaurants in the immediate vicinity. With events, festivals and other programs taking place along Avenida de las Americas it’s becoming the in-place to meet and play. Houston Arboretum and Nature Center and Memorial Park www.houstontx.gov
golf course, lies at the heart of the park along with tennis courts, softball fields, swimming center, track, croquet, volleyball, skating, and cycling. The most famous feature of the park is the 2.93 mile running course of crushed granite and is probably the most popular in Houston with almost 3 million visits annually. The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, an arboretum and botanical garden, is located within the park on 155 acres. The Nature Center holds classes and hosts events. Battleship Texas and San Jacinto Monument Museum www.sanjacinto-museum.org Battleship Texas is anchored at the 1,200acre San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site where visitors can experience history first-hand. The only surviving combat ship to have served in both World Wars, the Battleship Texas became the first memorial museum of its kind in the United States and is permanently anchored on the Houston Ship Channel. The Battleship
Sam Houston Statue in Hermann Park/Houston
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Discovery Green www.discoverygreen.com 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. George Ranch Historical Park www.georgeranch.org Located on a 20,000-acre working ranch, this 460-acre living history park includes historic homes, costumed interpreters and livestock. Tracing history that began in 1824, it is open daily. Special events such as the Texian Market Days Festival and Spring Break activities are offered year round. Hermann Park www.hermannpark.org
Texas program provides many recreational and educational experiences for visitors as
Memorial Park, opened in 1924, is one of the largest urban parks in the United States
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
well as numerous programs and self-guided tours. 281-479-2431
Photos courtesy of Visit Houston Texas
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Arguably Houston’s “Central Park,” this 445-acre park wedged between the Museum District and Medical Center celebrated its
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100th birthday in 2014 with a major facelift and the new McGovern Centennial 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. Houston Zoo www.houstonzoo.org
Asia Society www.asiasociety.org Asia Society is the leading educational organization dedicated to promoting mutual understanding and strengthening partnerships among people, leaders and institutions of Asia and the United States in a global context. Across the fields of arts, business, culture, education, and policy, the Society provides insight, generates ideas, and promotes collaboration to address present challenges and create a shared future.
Space Center Houston www.spacecenter.org Space Center Houston is the visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the area’s only Smithsonian affiliate. Houston’s No. 1 attraction for international visitors, Space Center Houston emphasizes engaging educational exhibits in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It offers permanent and special exhibits, attractions, theaters and seasonal camps for kids. Moody Gardens www.moodygardens.org • 800-582-4673
The Galleria Houston www.simon.com/mall/the-galleria
Photo courtesy of The Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo had a record year for attendance in 2016, welcoming 2,550,453 million visitors and maintaining its elite position as the second-most-attended US zoo with a paid admission. The zoo’s multiple seasonal and permanent attractions like holiday Zoo Lights and the Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit have helped drive attendance. Gorillas of The African Forest gives visitors the opportunity to observe gorillas in a lush forest setting adjacent to the existing chimpanzee habitat. The Houston Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive.
Photos courtesy of Moody Gardens
A tropical destination for families and Photos courtesy of Visit Houston Texas
The Galleria attracts more than 26 million visitors each year and is a major destination for shoppers from Latin America. The Galleria is the largest mall in Texas and the fourth largest in the nation. Modeled after the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, built in 1867, Houston’s Galleria also includes its famous ice rink.
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.
SCHLITTERBAHN GALVESTON ISLAND WATERPARK www.schlitterbahn.com With its huge array of awesome aquatic adventures, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island can be your personal happy place! During the summer season the park offers over 35 amazing rides and attractions. The Heated Indoor Season, October through mid-April, features more than a dozen heated attractions in a tropical, heated indoor oasis. 74
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Houston’s Theater District will impress the most demanding theatre aficionados. This cultural destination in downtown Houston is home to the Alley Theatre, Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, and the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Numerous restaurants and trend setting bars serve patrons before curtain calls and after performances.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
Photo courtesy of Hobby Center For The Performing Arts
ARTS, CULTURE s n o i t c a r t t &A
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TH E AT E R D IS TR IC T 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 Photo courtesy of Alley Theatre
Alley Theatre
Houston Grand Opera
615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002
510 Preston St., Houston, 77002
www.alleytheatre.org
www.houstongrandopera.org
One of
America’s leading not-for-profit
theatres calls the Houston Theater District Photo courtesy of Houston Symphony
Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing
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.
arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing in productions of the classics, modern plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces more performances than all other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org
Photo courtesy of The Houston Grand Opera
Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environment, Houston Grand Opera entertains with
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts
their innovative programs, community events
brings first-class entertainment and cultural
and educational projects. Houston Grand
enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the
Opera has a solid reputation for commis-
generosity of their donors. This arts complex
sioning and producing new works, including
is home to the Theatre Under The Stars
56 world premieres and seven American
(TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series.
premieres since 1973. Stop in and visit and see
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.
Photo courtesy of Houston Symphony
HOUSTON BALLET 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 • www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as contemporary works. This company attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy whose instruction levels vary from professional dancer to non-pro76
TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
fessional dancers.
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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. Photo courtesy of Main Street Theater
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
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
Society for FINE the Performing Arts www.spahouston.org The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into
Miller Outdoor Theatre, Photo courtesy of Houston First
Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.
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M U S E U M D I S TR IC T The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
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. Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store, Mexican village, puppet show and an infant play area are all under one roof. The
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
the
the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Bend Collection not too far away. From
(HMNS) seeks to enhance knowledge
2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum
and delight in natural science and related
of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a
subjects. It houses the Burke Baker Plane-
magnificent two new buildings.
in
the
United
States,
tors alike.
The Museum has numerous
collections that fill the galleries year-round
tarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating examine astronomy, space science, Native
Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg. Houston, 77204
American culture, paleontology, energy,
www.blafferartmuseum.org
variety of permanent exhibit areas that
chemistry, gems and minerals, Texas wildlife and more.
Blaffer Art Museum helps the community to engage in contemporary art through exhi-
Holocaust Museum Houston
bitions, publications and public programs.
5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org
This art museum is free, and open to the public in an effort to promote participation
fun-filled hands on experience at the Children’s Museum of Houston will not leave
The
is
in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the
anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place
dedicated to educating people about the
gateway between the University of Houston
for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.
Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews
and the City of Houston.
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Holocaust
Museum
Houston
T E X AS 2 8 8 S O U TH M US E UMS Alvin Historical Museum, Alvin
on display—a dinosaur replica; and exhibits
Schuster Home, Freeport, TX
300 W. Sealy, Alvin, Texas
on wildlife, rocks and minerals, archaeology,
979-297-0868
281-331-4469 • www.alvinmuseum.org
fossils and aquariums.
Housed in a former post office, the Alvin
Cultural Heritage Museum
port was incorporated, the Schuster house
Historical
2341 N. Galveston Avenue, Suite 200.
was a special place for family gatherings and
Built in 1917, the same year the city of FreeMuseum
showcases
artifacts
and memorabilia from Alvin’s history. The museum is located at 300 West Sealy.
This intimate 390 square-foot museum installation is serving as an exhibit space
Brazoria County Historical
until a permanent museum facility is built
Museum, Angleton
in Pearland. Visitors can view the 100+
979-388-1208 • www.bchm.org
Visions of India collection featuring Indian art and artifacts, reflecting both India’s
Housed in the 1897 Brazoria County Court-
culture and art. Sam Kannappan curates
house the museum includes an exhibit on
the exhibit sponsored by the Pearland Alli-
the Austin Colony and other exhibits on the
ance for Arts & Culture.
frontier experience. Lake Jackson Historical Museum, Brazosport Museum of Natural
Lake Jackson
Science Clute
979-297-1570 • lakejacksonmuseum.org
979-265-7831 • www.bcfas.org
holidays. Large crafted columns supported the wrap around porch and two enclosed chimneys provided for wood-burning stoves. Ten foot ceilings and many windows helped keep the area cool. It serves as an example of family life during the founding of Freeport. Tours are given on the fourth Saturday of every month. Surfside Historical Museum 979-233-1531 • www.surfsidetx.org A display of artifacts and exhibits on the history of Surfside Beach, Fort Velasco,
Museum highlights the history of
Brazoria County and Texas. Outside monu-
Named one of the ten best museums in
Lake Jackson, “The City of Enchant-
ments commemorate the Battle of Velasco
Texas by Frommer’s Travel Guide. Features
ment”, exhibits in history, humanities,
and sinking of the Acadia during the Civil
the largest collection of shells—over 14,000
and the sciences.
War. FREE admission
T E X AS 2 8 8 S O U TH TH E A TER & A RT Alvin Live, Alvin Community College
Kid’s Backporch Productions
281-756-3767
281-412-5350
This small, intimate venue gives students
This non-profit youth theatre group presents
experience in television and radio broad-
children’s theatrical productions starring
casting while raising funds for the college
adult and child actors.
communications department. Brazosport Center Stages Theater 979-265-7661 • www.bcfas.org The oldest continuously operating community theatre on the Gulf Coast of Texas, providing generations of audiences quality theatrical events. Brazosport College Art Gallery
Pearland Arts League (PAL) 713-340-1965 www.pearlandartsleague.com PAL members have a shared interest in promoting fine arts by incorporating the artistic talents of local residents at annual art exhibits and shows. Pearl Theater/Pearland Theatre Guild 713-340-2540
979-230-3000 • www.brazosport.edu The Pearl Theater near Shadow Creek Some of the finest works from around the
Ranch is the Guild’s permanent home.
United States are on display, showcasing
Productions include classic and contempo-
various mediums and styles from contempo-
rary plays, classes, camps and workshops for
rary and modern to traditional works.
adults and children.
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SPORTS
HOUSTON PROUD
Major events in Houston require tens of thousands of volunteers who take on a variety of jobs and responsibilities to make the event Houston Proud. More than 33,000 individuals serving on over 100 committees form the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo volunteer corps, giving more than 2.1 million total hours. The biggest volunteer program in Super Bowl history took place in Houston in 2017, where 10,000 volunteers assisted over a million visitors to the city for Super Bowl LI.
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Game Seven of 2017 World Series / Houston Astros v Los Angeles Dodgers Photo by Christian Petersen / Getty Images
Houston offers a variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone. Couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scene.
Another event in 2017, Hurricane Harvey, showed Houston’s tenacity and volunteer spirit. As flood waters rose, strangers helped strangers to safety, businesses responded, and volunteers lined up to do their part and give. Houston Strong became the mantra the city lived and ultimately played by. While many Houstonians recovered and rebuilt their homes and lives after Harvey, another event just a few months later changed the city again. The Houston Astros won the World Series Championship for the first time in its franchise history, defeating the Dodgers 5-1 in Game 7 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. Houston exploded with pride, celebration and inspiration. Houston Strong! What a series it was. Houston and Los Angeles set the record for most home runs in a single World Series. Game 5 kept Houstonians up late, ending with a 13-12 Astros win in the 10th inning and way past mid-night. It was the first World Series since 1970 between two teams with more than 100 wins during the regular season.
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SPORTS DISTRICT Within walking distance of Avenida de las Americas, the Houston Astros baseball team plays in Minute Maid Park, built around the grand 1911 Union Station depot. The Houston Rockets play basketball at Toyota Center a short walk from Minute Maid Park. Toyota Center is also a popular venue for concerts.
restaurants and newly constructed homes. A
varying terrain and challenges to suit every
new bike trail and METRO’s East End rail
golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll see striking views
line add to the vitality of this area.
of downtown Houston from one of the
The Houston Dynamo soccer team takes the field at BBVA Compass Stadium, located on the exciting east side of downtown, home to a growing concentration of clubs,
highest tee boxes in the city. You can play a
GOLF
round of golf in a certified Audubon Coop-
The average high in Houston in January (the
erative Sanctuary, tee off in a country club
coldest month) is 62.9°F and the average
known to be one of the most challenging
low is 43.2°F; there are over 200 days of
and well-maintained in the city, or play a
sunshine. Houston is a golfer’s paradise.
round of golf in your own neighborhood. In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA profes-
The Texas 288 Corridor has its share of
sionals and First Tee Programs are offered
both public and private courses that offer
throughout the area.
TEXAS 288 GOLF COURSES Clear Creek Golf Club
713-738-8000
www.clearcreekgolfclub.com
Pearland Golf Club at Country Place
713-773-9603
www.pearlandgolfclub.com
Magnolia Creek Golf Links
281-557-0555
www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/Magnolia-Creek-South-Shore
Sienna Plantation Golf Club
281-778-4653
www.siennagolf.com
South Shore Harbour Country Club
281-334-0525
www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/Magnolia-Creek-South-Shore
Southwyck Golf Club, Pearland
713-436-9999
www.southwyckgc.com
Wildcat Golf Club
713-413-3400
www.wildcatgolfclub.com
Wilderness Golf Course
979-297-4653
www.thewildernessgc.com
Timber Creek Golf Club
281-993-1140
www.timbercreekgolfclub.com
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CALENDAR of EVENTS
Photos courtesy of Visit Houston Texas
TEXAS 288 & SURROUNDING AREA EVENTS YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
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J AN U A R Y Chevron Houston Marathon Established in 1972, the Houston Marathon has become the nation’s premier winter marathon, half-marathon and 5K. About 25,000 runners participate in threerace weekend event. Organized by 7,500 volunteers, marathon is Houston’s largest single-day sporting event. HoustonMarathon.com
FE BR U A R Y Mardi Gras Galveston Island The island’s 107th Mardi Gras celebration is expected to draw more the 300,000 attendees. The island-style Mardi Gras has plenty of personality from the classic revelry found in the heart of Galveston’s historic down-town district to electronic dance parties and family friendly events and parades. www.galveston.com/mardigras
M AR C H Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo The world’s largest rodeo features dazzling competitions, award-winning barbecue, and block-buster concerts by country and western and other music super stars. Young farmers vying for scholarships
exhibit their prize livestock, plus an outdoor carnival at NRG Park. 832-667-1000 In Bloom Music Festival This annual 2-day music festival is held at Buffalo Bayou’s Eleanor Tinsley Park. It features dozens of perfor-mances on five different stages, fireworks, interactive art, music workshops, local and national musicians. www.fpsf.com The Azalea Trail The Azalea Trail is a promenade through some of Houston’s most glamorous homes and gardens. Organized by the River Oaks Garden Club, it is held each March when the showy purple, pink, white and yellow Azaleas are at their most spectacular. 713-523-2483
AP RIL McDonald’s Houston Children’s Festival This event is the largest children’s festival in the United States and has been selected as “one of the world’s 300 unmissable events” by Frommer’s Travel Guides. There are 5 stages, 9 big family adventure zones and over 300 activities. All proceeds benefit Child Advocates and the abused and neglected children they serve. www.houstonchildrensfestival.com
The Art Car Parade The Art Car Parade is the highlight of a three-day celebration of the drive to create: Art Car Weekend. Held each spring, the parade attracts over 250 ingenious entries and more than 250,000 spectators. It is sponsored by the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. www.thehoustonartcarparade.com
MA Y Houston Dragon Boat Festival The Texas Dragon Boat Association, in collaboration with Buffalo Bayou Partnership, presents its 17th Annual Houston Dragon Boat Festival. The festival will showcase 30 teams competing along the banks of Buffalo Bayou at Allen’s Landing, and will feature Asian cuisine, music, arts and crafts, and cultural performances for the whole family. 713-205-7373 Comicpalooza Comicpalooza is Texas’ largest pop culture convention. Comicpalooza is one of the best multi-format pop culture con in the southwest. Events include J-Fashion, cosplay, a film festival, literary conference, a code fest, maker space, Mars Rover rides, video and tabletop gaming, professional wrestling, & roller derby bouts. www.visithoustontexas.com
Photos courtesy of Visit Houston Texas
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
Photos courtesy of Houston Zoo
J UN E Juneteenth Celebration Juneteenth is a celebration of June 19, the day Texas learned of President Abraham Lincoln’s signing of the Eman-cipation Proclamation freeing all slaves. The event at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park includes blues, gospel and jazz
Freedom Over Texas – July 4 Freedom Over Texas is the Mayor’s Official Fourth of July Holiday Event. Held on the banks of Buffalo Bayou, it features multiple stages of nationally recognized and local recording artists, family-friendly activities, and of course, unrivaled pyro-
OCTOB ER The Original Greek Festival Join in the celebration at the Original Greek Festival held at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Part of the proceeds are donated to vari-ous Houston area charities. www.greekfestival.org
technic artistry set to music.
Carnival Houston
The Houston International Jazz Festival
Bayou City Art Festival Downtown This acclaimed juried art show in downtown Houston spans several blocks filled with paintings, sculptures, jewelry and music, plus great food, wine cafes, beer taverns and a kids zone.
Celebrating carnival from the Caribbean,
traditionally showcases Jazz, Rhythm and
www.artcolonyassociation.org
Brazil and New Orleans Mardi Gras. It
Blues, Soul and Latin Fusion.
is an exciting explosion of music, cuisine,
www.jazzeducation.org
performers and a variety of smaller events aimed at raising awareness of African-American herit-age.
AU GUST Houston International Jazz Fest, August 4-6
revelry, costume parade and performances. The Premier Annual Carnival Houston show will showcase carnival costumes and performances such as Samba, Merengue, and costume masqueraders, Dance Performances, Calypso, Soca, Salsa, and Samba. (832) 614-9337
J UL Y
Texas Renaissance Festival Plantersville - Based on travel-worthiness, chance to broaden horizons and the ability to introduce people to try new things and connect with others, the Texas Renaissance Festival has been voted the best cultural festival in the country by USA Today and 10Best. Enjoy magicians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours, comedians, food,
July 4th Celebrations are held throughout
arts and crafts that all celebrate life in the
the greater Houston area. Check with your
16th Century.
visitors’ bureau or city for details.
www.texrenfest.com
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
Quilt Festival More than 1,600 quilt and fiber art works will be on exhibit at this renowned show and sale. Shop more than 1,100 booths, free demos and edu-cation exhibits in the George R. Brown Convention Center. 713-781-6864 Nutcracker Market The Houston Ballet’s major fundraiser, the Nutcracker Market is a shopping wonderland. This year’s market will feature more than 325 nation-al and international merchants carefully selected for their unique offerings. Look for gourmet food,
home dĂŠcor, garden accessories, clothing,
Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo
novelties and the perfect gift.
Presented by TXU Energy. Millions of
www.Houstonballet.org
LED lights illuminate animal-themed light
HGMS Gem, Jewelry, Mineral & Fossil Show The Houston Gem and Mineral Society will hold its annual celebration of rocks, showcasing unique jewelry and other earthly delights. See demonstrations, educational exhibits and
displays, 15 miles of tree lighting, and seasonal songs and stories. www.zoolights.houstonzoo.org
TEXA S 288 EV ENTS Following are just a few of the events held annually in the Texas 288 area. For a complete list of events check the City, Chamber of Commerce or Visitors Bureau web pages.
Houston Galleria Uptown Holiday Lighting The annual holiday tradition flips the
JA NUA RY Pearland Winterfest
one-of-a-kind treasures.
switch on a half-million twinkling lights
www.hgms.org
along with music, holiday charac-ters, and
Recreation Center Natatorium. Call for
a special appearance by Santa. Fireworks
ticket information and event schedule.
grand finale. Numerous Christmas events
281-412-8900
H-E-B Holiday Parade The 68th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade will welcome the holiday season by celebrating all things Hou-ston. The Fun begins at 9am when the downtown streets come alive with zesty marching bands,
from tree lighting ceremonies and parades to fun runs are held in various cities in the Texas 288 region throughout the holiday sea-son. Check your city’s web page for
imaginative floats and colorful balloons.
information or contact the Convention &
Bring the family.
Visitors Bureau
www.houstontx.gov/thanksgivingparade
www.uptownhouston.comTEXA S
This popular family event is held at the
MA RCH Angleton Market Days More than 200 diverse vendors from across the State gather at the Brazoria County Fairgrounds each spring for this large indoor and outdoor market. 979-849-4364
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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Lake Jackson: Bird Banding The mission of the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory is to protect the birds and their habitats around the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. Volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The banding station is an excellent oppor-tunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of our community. www.gcbo.org • 979-480-0999
OCTOB ER Pearland Art & Crafts on the Pavilion Unique collection of artists and craft artisans support this annual show at the Pearland Town Center. Saturday & Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. 713-436-5595
A PR I L Brazosport CenterFest 2018 Artist from across the state show and sell
Lake Jackson, July 4th Celebration Annual fireworks display at Dunbar Park, 9-9:30 pm. Parking is available at
work ranging from fine wood sculptures to
the Brazos Mall.
beautiful paintings to pho-tography, glass,
www.lakejackson-tx.gov
clay, metal, jewelry, and much more! www.brazosportcenterfest.org
Pearland - July 4th Celebration A military salute followed by the Texas
Alvin Music Festival & Cook-Off
Unlimited Band. Spectacular fireworks
The annual event draws visitors from
display at sundown. Full size car-nival,
all around to enjoy live music, IBCA
food, face painting and more! , 6:30-10:00
sanctioned Cook-Off, kids activities,
p.m. Admission is FREE.
food, dancing, and a beer garden. Just
281-412-8900
around the corner from Pearland, Alvin is minutes away on Highway 35.
Great Texas Mosquito Festival
www.alvinmusicfestival.com
Three-day family event featuring food,
Lake Jackson: Taste of the Town Sample food and drinks from a variety of the Brazosport Area’s finest restaurants. Live auction at the Food Court. 979-285-2501
J UL Y Fireworks, Food and Fun!
arts & crafts, booths, a carnival, contests, and headline entertainers. Have your photo taken with the world’s largest mosquito, “Mr. Willie Man-chew”. Clute Municipal Park. 800-371-2971
SE P TEMB ER
Alvin - July 4th Celebration.
Pearland Fusion of the Arts
Alvin Community College - 3110
Juried art show held annually to showcase
Mustang Road.
local performing and visual artists.
www.alvincollege.edu/campusevents
713-304-0672
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Brazoria County Fair & Rodeo OCTOBER 12 - 20, 2018 - 80th Anniversary of the largest county fair in Texas with Rodeo, Science Fair, concerts, BBQ Cook-off, and Livestock Show & Carnival. Fair grounds in Angleton. www.brazoriacountyfair.com 979-849-6416
NOV EMB ER/ DECEMB ER Lake Jackson: Festival of Lights Kick-off the holiday season with this carnival, games, parade, snow and more! Carnival runs Thursday - Sunday. 979-415-2600 Pearland Hometown Christmas Annual tree lighting ceremony & Christmas village in Pearland Town Center. Christmas Parade is held on Satur-day. Alvin Home for the Holidays Kid’s craft and movie are planned for Friday night. Saturday’s events at National Oak Park feature food, a Christ-mas market, kid’s activities, a snow hill, entertainment and a lighted parade. 281-388-4299 Angleton Heart of Christmas on the Square This annual event features a lighted parade, food, children’s activities and fun for all around the court house.
ad index APARTMENTS/HOTELS Discovery at Shadow Creek Ranch .......................................................................................................................................... 27 Courtyard by Marriott Pearland ................................................................................................................................................. 13
BUILDERS & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTS Meridiana........................................................................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Pomona by Hillwood Communities..............................................................................................................Outside Back Cover Terrata Homes in Sterling Lakes .................................................................................................................................................... 7 Sienna Plantation .............................................................................................................................................. Inside Back Cover Stone Meadow Homes ............................................................................................................................................................... 19
EDUCATION Alvin Community College ........................................................................................................................................................... 40 Brazosport College ...................................................................................................................................................................... 41 Brazosport ISD ............................................................................................................................................................................... 35 Lutheran South Academy........................................................................................................................................................... 37 Primrose School of Pearland........................................................................................................................................................ 39 St. Helen Catholic School ........................................................................................................................................................... 37 New Horizons Computer Learning Center................................................................................................................................. 43
HEALTH CARE HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Pearland ...................................................................................................................... 3 Houston Methodist Hospital ........................................................................................................................................................ 61 Pearland Medical Center HCA..................................................................................................................................................... 1 MD Anderson Cancer Center....................................................................................................................................................... 9
REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION SERVICES Innovative Realty Group: David Moore .................................................................................................................................... 23 HAR.COM....................................................................................................................................................................................... 77 Shelly Naiser Properties................................................................................................................................................................. 21
RECREATION Brazosport Center for the Arts & Sciences................................................................................................................................. 28 Children’s Museum of Houston................................................................................................................................................... 33 Houston Rockets........................................................................................................................................................................... 85 Pearland Golf Club at Country Place........................................................................................................................................ 81 Schlitterbahn Galveston Island................................................................................................................................................... 73 Texas Renaissance Festival.......................................................................................................................................................... 87
UTILITIES XFINITY ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 52 TXU Energy ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
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TEXAS 288 SOUTH NEWCOMER GUIDE
GET MORE SIENNA PLANTATION Where Living Becomes Living It Up
• New builders, 20+ new model homes • New and pre-owned homes • 7th on-site Fort Bend ISD School coming Aug. 2018
• New entrance opening 2018 • Sawmill Lake Club - NOW OPEN! • On-site restaurants + retail
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COVENTRY HOMES
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New Homes From The Mid $200s-$600s
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4545 Pomona Parkway Manvel, TX 77578