TH ER E’ S SU B U R BAN LI FE
AN D TH ER E’ S RESO RT LI FE . Equal parts relaxing oasis and exciting adventure, Cane Island offers regular community events, thoughtfully unique amenities and a resort experience you have to live to believe. 12 STUNNING MODEL HOMES
HALF-ACRE CUSTOM HOME SITES
• CALATLANTIC
• SHEA
• JEFF PAUL
• WESTPORT
• COVENTRY
• TOLL BROTHERS
• MIKE HARRISON
• WILLIAM DAVID
• DAVID WEEKLEY
• TRENDMAKER
• PERRY
H ER E , YO U CAN HAVE IT ALL .
COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR
FROM THE MID-$200s TO THE MILLIONS I KATY ISD I-10 WEST, EXIT CANE ISL AND PKWY I CANEISLAND.COM
No warranty or representation of intended use, design or proposed improvements are made herein. All plans for land or facilities are subject to change without notice. Nothing presented in this advertisement shall obligate the owner, or any other person or entity, to construct facilities or develop as shown. pledged andEspirit– ofFU.S. the6achievement in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex or national origin. 2 PA L M B E Aland CH R E LWe O are CA T I O to NtheGletter UID A Lpolicy L 2for 01 | W IofNEqual T E RHousing 2 0 1Opportunity 7
RINCETON
��HOMES Luxury within reach.™
NORTHWEST The Reserve at Spring Lakes $680+ $290+ Towne Lake Raleigh Creek $340+ Raleigh Creek Marquis Plus $260+ $310+ Laurel Glen 60s $260+ Laurel Glen 60s Marquis $310+ Laurel Glen 70s Marquis $290+ Dellrose $250+ Dellrose Marquis
(281) 290-0551 (281) 290-0551 (281) 370-0312 (281) 370-0312 (281) 370-0312 (832) 653-5925 (832) 653-5925
WEST Marcello Lakes Marcello Lakes Marquis Lilac Bend - Coming Soon!
$290+ $290+
(281) 671-9070 (281) 671-9070 (281) 671-9070
NORTH CENTRAL Bristol Lakes Bristol Lakes Marquis
$330+ $300+
(832) 823-4854 (832) 823-4854
SOUTHWEST Lake Shore Harbour Katy Creek Estates Greatwood Lake 60s Greatwood Lake 70s
$230+ $540+ $310+ $390+
(281) 416-8919 (281) 395-3141 (281) 343-0428 (281) 343-0428
(281) 290-0551 (281) 758-2283
c,
'"'
"' Pearland Fr,endswood �
Princeton ClassicHomes. com
le gue
ty
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
1
contents | features 22 31 42 76
Harris County Map & Cost of Living Manageable. Affordable. Lifestyle.
ON THE COVER Lennar Homes is a homebuilder in West Houston, and also builds home in some the the most desirable cities in the nation. Their communities cater to all lifestyles and include urban, suburban, active adult and golf course living. www.lennar.com
International Relocation Information
PHOTOGRAPHY
Houston by the Numbers
We would like to thank the following for their contributions:
31
GHCVB Houston The Houston Texans Memorial Hermann Cross Creek Ranch Yorkshire Academy Fort Bend Christian Academy The British International School Houston Discover Green - Katya Horner, Photographer Houston Zoo - Stephanie Adams Lenner Homes CityCentre Beazer Homes Houston Astros Space Center Houston Sam Houston Race Park Top Golf Houston International Jazz Festival Texas Renaissance Festival Schlitterbahn Galveston Eric Pohl Katy Mills Mall Lacenterra At Cinco Ranch Uptown Park
EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Joy Oden Judy Van Cleve Cecile Ruffino
© WEB Media Group LLC 2017 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical,
42 2
W T HB O UC S THO RNE LNO EW CTOI O MNE RG G L I2N0T1E7R 2 0 1 7 P AELSM EA CA U IUDI D E E – –F AS LULM 2M0E1R6/ F |A L W
photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.
HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE GROUP IN KATY Welcoming Dr. Randa Djendou
“
Being a doctor is more than a job, it is my passion. My ultimate goal is to keep my patients healthy with minimum medication.
”
Randa Djendou, MD Internal Medicine
23530 Kingsland Blvd. Suite 130 Katy, TX 77494
Schedule today. Visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg/katy or call 713.394.6638.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
3
contents | sections WELCOME TO WEST HOUSTON • 12
16
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS • 16 Cities Neighborhoods Master Planned Communities Cost of Living & Map
675 Bering Drive, Suite 120 Houston Texas 77057 Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
HOME FRONT • 24
24
Temporary Lodging Rent or Buy Choosing a Realtor Mortgage Options
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 34 Moving Companies Forwarding Mail Utilities Public Transportation International Relocation
44
EDUCATION IN WEST HOUSTON • 44 STAAR Public Schools Private Schools Higher Education
PLACE OF WORSHIP • 59
74
Directory of Contacts
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 62 Major Medical Facilities
ACTIVE ADULTS & SENIOR LIVING • 68 Senior Housing Options Continuing Care Retirement Communities Assisted Living Communities
78
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY • 74 Area Chambers of Commerce Area Economic Development Partnerships Houston by the numbers
LEISURE & RECREATION • 78 Parks & Attractions Arts and Culture Dining & Shopping Sports & Golf Calendar of Events
4
W T HB O UC S THO RNE LNO EW CTOI O MNE RG G L I2N0T1E7R 2 0 1 7 P AELSM EA CA U IUDI D E E – –F AS LULM 2M0E1R6/ F |A L W
PUBLISHER Michael P. Blalock
PROJECT MANAGER Jill Roe
OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Ruffino
ART DIRECTOR Rebecca Cammack
West Houston Relocation Guide is published and distributed bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC For advertising information, please call 713-952-1916. Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication. WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.
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. Ca rd 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. ©2017 TXU Energy. All rights reserved. REP #10004 HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
5
SYLVESTER TURNER City of Houston Mayor
Greetings! Let me be the first to welcome you to Houston! You are going to love living here. We are the most diverse City in the nation – a City with an entrepreneurial spirit and a City where you can achieve your dreams. Houston is still the Energy Capital of the World, but our economy has diversified over the years to include technology, medicine and manufacturing and shipping.
P.O. Box 1562 Houston, Texas 77251-1562 Telephone – Dial 311 www.houstontx.gov
I invite you to explore all that this great city has to offer. Whether it’s our world-class restaurants, theaters, museums, shopping, thrilling sports teams or the new Independence Plaza at the Johnson Space Center which houses the world’s first and only replica of the space shuttle/ carrier, Houston has it all. It all combines together to create the ideal city in which to live, work and play. Houston Newcomer and Relocation Guides can be an invaluable source of information as you prepare for your relocation. It showcases every aspect of living and working in the city of Houston.
We look forward to having you as a Houstonian!
Sincerely,
Sylvester Turner Mayor
6
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Moving? Start fresh with X1.
Astroblast and Miles from Tomorrowland available on XFINITY TV app
Bring the best in entertainment to your new home with XFINITY. Call 1-855-MOV-EDGE to speak to a dedicated Move Specialist or visit xfinity.com/moving today!
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. © 2017 Comcast. All right reserved. TRP187372-0001
7
Welcome to West Houston Dear West Houston and Katy Newcomers, On behalf of our fine West Houston and Katy business organizations and our members, it is an honor to welcome you to the area. We are proud of our communities. From Downtown Houston to Katy, you will find outstanding retail centers, fine hotels and restaurants, and excellent recreational opportunities that are all close to home. The vibrant economic climate of the area is second-to-none. International corporations and entrepreneurs alike seek out the many business opportunities the area has to offer. Development within the 610 Loop and along Interstate 10 West, Highway 6, and the Grand Parkway provides unlimited growth potential for emerging, expanding, or relocating companies. From Alief to Spring Branch, West Houston’s business and residential communities are diverse and the possibilities are endless. Westchase has many attractive living options within walking distance of some of Houston’s largest employers. The Energy Corridor’s concentration of worldwide and Houston-based petroleum companies is a tribute to the ambition and drive of the area. Master-planned communities and resale homes in West Houston and Katy continue to meet the housing demands of families relocating to our area with some of the most affordable prices in the country. Homes in the lovely Memorial Villages are a solid value because of their location and serene setting. Additionally, the redevelopment of Downtown Houston and the popularity of the Intown and Galleria neighborhoods is tremendous. The highway and transportation infrastructure is ever-growing to meet the mobility needs of our residents and businesses. Light rail, the expansion of Interstate 10, and two new toll roads make traveling from West Houston and Katy to other parts of the city quick and convenient. Health care for residents is exceptional. The world-class Texas Medical Center in the heart of Houston has many affiliated hospitals and clinics close to home to meet the medical needs of area residents. Education is another primary consideration for relocating families. The Alief ISD, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Houston ISD, Katy ISD, Lamar CISD and Spring Branch ISD are among the very best in Texas. Additionally, there is an outstanding variety of private and parochial schools from which to choose. We welcome you to our area and would like the opportunity to serve you personally. Please do not hesitate to contact or simply stop by our offices to see how we may be able to assist you in your relocation. Sincerely,
Clark Martinson, General Manager Energy Corridor District
Jeannie M. Bollinger, President & CEO Houston West Chamber of Commerce
Ann F. Hodge, President/CEO Katy Area Chamber of Commerce
LENNAR REV. 06.1 PLAN 48
Lance LaCour, President/CEO Katy Area Economic Development ouncil, Inc.
8
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Jim Murphy, General Manager Westchase District
MASTER BEDROOM
COVERED PATIO
12' x 10'
15' x 14'
PL
RE
FI E AC
R 10.15 81N- NO FURNITURE
DINING ROOM
FAMILY ROOM
MASTER BATH
15' x 18'
SEAT
Two homes. One roof.
KITCHEN 12' x 19'
UP
12' x 10'
FOYER
NextGen fits your life.
CLOSET FRZ
PRIVATE
UTILITY
REF.
COAT
PANTRY
Parent moving in? Grown kids moving back?
PWDR BEDROOM 4
BATH 2
12' x 12'
OPT. MEDIA
15' x 13'
PORCH
These days, typical living is anything but. That’s what
GAME ROOM
GARAGE 19' x 23'
15' x 19'
PRIVATE LIVING ROOM
makes NextGen so unique. Rather than just offer extra
BATH 3
12' x 11'
BEDROOM 5
UP OPEN RAILING
13' x 11'
KITCHENETTE 12' x 8'
STOOP
room, NextGen homes feature private entrances, BEDROOM 3 12' x 12'
OPEN TO BELOW
separate garages, and innovative floor plans designed to SECOND FLOOR
meet your unique needs. Discover multi-generational living
Main Home
GARAGE 20' x 10'
NextGen Suite
FIRST FLOOR
LENNAR REV. 06.10.15 PLAN 481N- NO FURNITURE
on a whole new level. NextGen. The Home Within a Home®.
|
from the $270s
|
NextGenHouston.com
|
Plans and elevations/renderings are artist’s concepts and may contain options or features which are not standard on all models. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, square footage and designs vary per plan and community and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Contact a Lennar or Village Builders new home consultant for detail. Garage sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate all vehicles. Stated dimensions and/or square footages are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Any statement, verbal or written, regarding “under air” or “furnished area” or any other description or modifier for the square footage size of any home is a shorthand description of the manner in which the square footage was estimated and should not be construed to indicate certainty. Models/lifestyle photos do not represent racial or ethnic preference. Copyright 2017 Lennar Corporation. All rights reserved. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Village Builders, the Village Builders logo and Next Gen and the Next Gen logo are registered service marks of Lennar corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 05/2017
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
9
CINDY HAMANN 2017 Chairman Houston Association of REALTORS®
Welcome to Houston! You’ve just landed in 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, including Super Bowl LI. As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston metropolitan area, you’re likely to notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.
HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax: 713- 961-4869
BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax: 281-486-7530
MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760 Fax: 936-273-0344
FORT BEND
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 rent or buy. The 34,000 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 understand that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make. Well over a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which extended its reach beyond Houston in 2014 to provide property listings for the entire state of Texas. The site offers dozens of user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more. Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more. On behalf of HAR, it’s my great pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you’ll take advantage of everything our incredible community has to offer.
6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700
Sincerely,
Fax: 281-343-9557
Cindy Hamann
10
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
SEASON
Over 33 attractions! April 14 - October 15, 2017
SEASON
Enjoy slides, rivers, and family fun for all ages!
October 21 – December 31, 2017
SAVE UP TO $12
Present this coupon at Schlitterbahn Galveston admission station during our 2017 Summer or Fall Indoor Waterpark to save $2 on up to 6 full-price, all-day admissions. Not valid on Saturdays in June, July, or August, or with any other discount offer. Tickets must be purchased at Schlitterbahn and used on the same day. No cash value. Void if sold. Visitt schlitterbahn.commfor more information. Expires December 31, 2017.
GALVESTON
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
® 2016 Waterpark Management, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
11
in this section welcome recreation culture shopping & entertainment
12
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
WELCOME TO n o t s u o WESTH Energy. Excitement. Options. Thousands of newcomers relocate to Houston each year from all over the country and the world. A new Houstonian arrives about every fourteen minutes; in the last year, a new job was added to the area about every twelve. Many of the new jobs and new residents are settling in West Houston, one of the city’s most dynamic parts. West
Houston
resonates
with
energy,
recreation, entertainment and some of the top-selling master-planned communities in the United States. Quality of life – including top-rated schools – has drawn residents and employers alike. It’s hard to think of another region anywhere in the U.S. more energetic than West Houston. And we mean “energetic” literally, because West Houston is the Energy Capital of Houston, which is the Energy Capital of the World.
Just like the country, Houston’s growth has always headed west. More than 1.7 million people live in Greater West Houston and 580,000 are employed in the area, according to 2017 data from the West Houston Association. West Houston residents are highly educated, with 43% holding a college degree, compared to 36% of Houstonians.
and Houston ISDs, all of which have excellent ratings and campuses. West Houston is also attracting new private schools, such as the British International School of Houston, which has opened a new $80 million K-12 campus in Katy. There is also a growing concentration of modern, leading-edge hospitals in West
Many – but by no means all – of West Houston’s residents and employers are associated with the energy industry. West Houston is home to the world-famous Energy Corridor, home to more than 300 multi-national, national and local companies involved in every aspect of energy. As the region’s third-largest employment center – only Downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center are bigger – the Energy Corridor has more than 91,000 employees.
Houston, including Memorial Hermann Katy, Houston Methodist St. Catherine and Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) West Campus. Houston’s world-renowned M.D. Anderson Cancer Center chose Katy as the location for its first complete standalone facility outside of the Texas Medical Center.
RECREATION West Houston is much more than a lovely place to learn, work and live. Residents
With so many smart and successful professionals working in the area, it’s no surprise that several West Houston ZIP codes rank among the wealthiest in Texas and the U.S., according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and eight of the most affluent Houston neighborhoods are in West Houston.
enjoy the leafy outdoors by hiking, cycling,
Top-rated schools and world-class care round out West Houston’s quality of life. The area is served Katy Independent School District, the best districts in the U.S., as well Bend, Cypress-Fairbanks, Spring
26,000 acres of parks, reservoirs and open
healthenvied by the one of as Fort Branch
birding, and golfing. With over 200 sunny days a year, a moderate climate (except in the summer when it does get sticky), and many public and private courses, this is a golfer’s paradise. In addition, the area boasts more than space, plus more than 50 miles of trails, which includes the 9,200-acre Cullen Park and the 7,800-acre George Bush Park, two of the largest metropolitan parks in the United States.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
13
WELCOME TO W P AELSM T HB O EA UC S THO N
Photo courtesy of CityCentre
A master plan to create more than 100 miles
a weekly Farmer’s Market. A little further
CULTURE
of interconnected trails in West Houston,
west, Katy Mills Mall is one of the biggest
within a 6-mile radius centered at the inter-
outlet malls in the nation, and nearby the
section of the Katy Freeway (I-10 West) and
Katy Main Street development is planned
State Highway 6, is well under way.
for 1 million square feet of shopping, restau-
The people of West Houston like to celebrate – their heritage, their community, their food, heck, anything. And you’ll find many festivals and parties all year long. From Katy’s Wild West Brewfest to Music on the Patio at Italian Maid Café in Fulshear; gatherings to eat, enjoy and engage are everywhere.
The Katy Prairie Conservancy is succeeding in preserving an ecologically vital prairie and associated wetlands on Houston’s far west side for the enjoyment and benefit of all. The number of protected acres has grown to 20,000, up from 1,300 acres 15 years ago.
SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT West Houston is becoming one of the most vibrant shopping and entertainment destinations in the Gulf Coast region. With 5 major anchors and over 150 shops and restaurants, the recently rejuvenated Memorial City Mall is one of the region’s most popular malls. Located at the Katy Freeway and Sam Houston Tollway, the 37-acre CityCentre development is an urban mix of restaurants, shops, offices and apartments, set amid European-style open-air plazas and carefully designed green spaces.
rants and services. It will be built in two phases; phase one is already complete. Recently completed is Grand Crossing, a master-planned development at the southwest corner of the Katy Freeway and Grand Parkway, with shops, offices and a hotel. University Center, a mixed-use development at the northeast corner of this key intersection, will be anchored by a 46-acre University of Houston campus. But the fun doesn’t stop at shopping. There’s plenty of amusement to be had at many venues for play, like Top Golf, a golf games venue, or IFly, where you can soar on an upward air current. Or, splash your way through summer at Typhoon Texas and at any of the many splash pads, play fountains and pools in the area. And take advantage of some of the most diverse dining options in the world at one
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch is another
of the thousands of restaurants in the area.
open-air festival of shopping, dining and
Choose from a quick bite at a rustic local
entertainment, with buildings evoking the
tradition, or enjoy a world-class culinary
feel of a small-town Main Street, and events
experience from an award-winning chef. All
that include outdoor movies, concerts and
are ready to serve you in West Houston.
14
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Houston is the most diverse city in the country and the cultural offerings reflect that. In West Houston, it’s possible to immerse yourself in history at an area museum or memorial, visit a performance of traditional dance, appreciate the visual artistry on display at a local gallery or sample one of any number of international cultures. Of course, down the road, the world-class museum district, galleries, theatres and performance venues of Houston make taking in an amazing show easy.
TRANSPORTATION Some of the most significant mobility projects in the metropolitan area are happening in West Houston. The Katy Freeway (I-10) – the undisputed major artery of West Houston – was expanded in a $2.8 billion, 23-mile-long project completed in 2008, and a new project is adding more lanes. Still considered one of the nation’s most innovative urban
BUYING OR SELLING We will get you where you want to be,
HOME.
With offices in Katy and Fulshear to serve you, put our expertise and market knowledge to work on your next real estate transaction.
281.646.1136 | www.GaryGreene.com ©2017 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Better Homes and Gardens, the Better Homes and Garden Real Estate logo are registered service marks owned by Meredith Corporation and licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC.
mobility projects, the Katy Freeway has toll lanes with variable congestion pricing, along with free lanes for high-occupancy vehicles. The Westpark Tollway, another key to West Houston mobility, stretches from the 610 Loop to the Grand Parkway, and construction has begun to extend this popular tollway another 2.5 miles westward to Fulshear. Widening of FM 1093 is also part of this vital mobility project. The Grand Parkway is also a strategic part of West Houston’s mobility infrastructure. Houston’s third major loop is now open from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59 North as a toll road, allowing commuters to travel without stopping from Fort Bend County in the south to the Cy-Fair area, The Woodlands area and Montgomery County toward the north and east. With so much in its favor, it’s no surprise that West Houston sits in the middle of a growth trend that is projected to add 3.4 million new residents to Harris County by 2050. You might be one of them and you’ll find a warm welcome in West Houston.
Design. Personalization. Possibilities. Find your inspired new home in West Houston. Aliana In Richmond from the $340s
Firethorne In Katy from the $240s
Creekside Ranch In Richmond from the $220s
Lakes of Bella Terra In Richmond from the $260s
Fieldstone In Richmond from the $280s
ashtonwoods.com © 2016 Ashton Woods Homes. All rights reserved. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades or options; community association and golf fees may be required. Plans, specifications, pricing, incentives, features, elevations, and materials subject to change without notice. Square footage and dimensions are approximate, subject to change and may vary in construction. Renderings, maps and displays are artists’ conceptions and not actual depiction of home or its surroundings. Actual position of home on lot to be determined by site and plot plans; basements available subject to site conditions. Community improvements and amenities based on current plans and subject to change with no obligation to be completed. This is not an offer to sell real estate, or solicitation to buy real estate, in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law or where prior registration is required, including New York and New Jersey. Please see Sales Representative for additional information. 12.16
HOU16_073_ReloGuide_WHoust_4-875x4-75.indd 1
11/22/16 1:18 PM
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
15
in this section
Photo courtesy of Towne Lake
cities neighborhoods master planned communities cost of living & map
16
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS Family. Nature. Home.
NEIGHBORHOODS
CROSS CREEK RANCH
CANE ISLAND
The master plan for this community was
Named after the 1872 settlement that later
designed with two priorities – to enhance
became Katy, Cane Island is a 1,000-acre community planned for more than 2,000 homes priced from the $200,000s to more
There’s no other place like it
than $1 million. The community is easily accessible from the Cane Island Parkway exit from I-10 West. Less than four miles west of the Grand Parkway, Cane Island is located in the Katy school district and is
From
established
neighborhoods
the lifestyles of its residents and to be kind to the environment. The results are evident in Flewellen Creek Park, a 150-acre park that winds through the heart of Cross Creek Ranch, providing a habitat for birds and wildlife while also connecting the entire community. With a boardwalk and overlook, Polishing Pond is a beautiful nature habitat and water quality basin that’s about the size
with
only minutes from the Energy Corridor and
mid-century homes and tree-lined streets,
other destinations. The first phase includes
to mega master-planned communities that
13 model homes in 7 residential neigh-
are among the nation’s top-sellers, West
borhoods. Three of these neighborhoods
Houston offers a diverse range of housing
are gated, and overall home styles include
choices.
Whether it’s a cozy Memorial
traditional single-family homes and luxury
enclave or a new Katy development with
patio homes. The first phase also includes
thousands of acres, West Houston commu-
a 4-acre amenity center with an amphithe-
nities share many desirable traits: highly
ater shaded by 75-year-old oak trees. Other
unique amenities is the Italian Maid Café,
regarded public schools, proximity to many
attractions include a pool and splash pad, a
offering everything from Lasagna Bolog-
of the region’s largest and most popular
two-story fitness center, and two spacious
nese to Chicken Aioli for dine-in or takeout.
parks and trail systems, and easy accessi-
tree houses with decks. A glass conservatory
Located at the crossroads of FM 1463 and
bility to major employers, shopping and
offers an ideal place for community events
FM 1093, just west of the Grand Parkway
healthcare providers.
and exhibits. The heavily wooded half-
and Westpark Tollway, Cross Creek Ranch
mile arrival experience includes two “living
is served by the award-winning Katy and
Following are brief introductions to some of
archway” tunnels made of evergreens and
Lamar Consolidated School Districts. www.
the most significant neighborhoods, commu-
seasonal colors, leading to a three-acre lake
crosscreektexas.com
nities and municipalities in West Houston
and the Cane Island Welcome Center. www.
and Katy.
caneisland.com
of 48 football fields. More amenities include the Adventure Island Water Park, miles of hike and bike trails, Arbor Park, and a spacious fitness center. Cross Creek Ranch Hill, a 40-foot incline affectionately dubbed as Mt. Fulshear, is a popular place for residents to walk their dogs, fly kites, enjoy picnics or simply relax. One of its most
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
17
WO H E LUC S IONM GE &T O N EPI A GLHMB OB R EH AO CO H DS
THE HOME OF
MORE MONEY FOR MOMENTS THAT MATTER. Our homes have more than just a low HERS score. Our ENERGY STAR®–certified building practices have been known to lower heating and cooling costs up to half on average, which means you can afford to do more living. And just wait until we tell you about the low-E windows, allergy-reducing air filtration, Tyvek® house wrap and sound-blocking wall insulation that we build into every home. Visit us today. Whether you want to build it from the ground up or need the keys ASAP, your dream home is a Meritage home.
visit m e r i tag e h o m e s . c o m / n o r t h w e s t
Your dream home is waiting. Call: 8 4 4 - 3 1 7 - 0 3 2 8
All promotional, marketing, and advertising estimates and claims related to energy savings or performance are created exclusively by third party suppliers, rating services, utility companies, and/or certified auditors, based on U.S. Department of Energy methodology and average energy use and scores. Actual energy savings and performance of any home or any of its features may vary widely, and may be more or less than indicated savings and performance, depending on the personal energy consumption choices of the occupants and changes in energy provider rates and programs. Pictures and other promotional materials are representative and may depict or contain floor plans, square footages, elevations, options, upgrades, extra design features, decorations, floor coverings, decorative light fixtures, custom paint and wall coverings, window treatments (such as shutters, drapes, etc.), landscaping, pool, spa, sound and alarm systems, furnishings, appliances, and other designer/decorator features and amenities that are not included as part of the home and/or may not be available in all communities. Home and community information is subject to change, and homes to prior sale, at any time without notice or obligation. Not an offer or solicitation to sell real property. Offers to sell real property may only be made and accepted at the sales center for individual Meritage Homes communities. See sales associate for details. Meritage Homes® is a registered trademark of Meritage Homes Corporation. ©2017 Meritage Homes Corporation. All rights reserved.
JORDAN RANCH
and “park side” living to homeowners at
Ozelda Magee, who was part of the first
HOU_0817049_Q2_2017_NorthwestJuneAd_7.5x4.875.indd 1
One of the newest communities from
an affordable price in Rosenberg. Kingdom
family to settle in the area. Today, the orig-
Johnson Development, Jordan Ranch is
Heights is a 572-acre master planned
inal 1,250-acre town is located mostly within
in Fulshear, recently named the #1 place
community with 12 lakes and 39 parks being
the city limits of Houston, with some of
to raise a family in the Houston area by
developed on 150 acres, water and green
its area in unincorporated Harris County.
Niche.com. Jordan Ranch is one mile from
space will separate this community from
Alief ’s boundaries include Westheimer on
I-10 West, with convenient access to the
any other in Fort Bend County. The commu-
the north, Sam Houston Tollway on the east,
Grand Parkway, which now extends all the
nity includes a large recreation center with
the Fort Bend County line on the west, and
way from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59 North.
a resort style pool and fitness center. Excel-
U.S. 59 South on the south. The boundaries
Planned for 2,800 homes, this 1,350-acre
lent Lamar ISD schools; Foster High School
of the Alief Independent School District are
community is planned to include a swim-
an8888d Briscoe Junior High are right down
roughly equivalent. In the early 20th century,
ming pool, pocket parks, and hike and bike
the road. Kingdom Heights is just minutes
Alief flourished as a rice- and cotton-
trails. Near the Energy Corridor, Jordan
from Sugar Land Towne Centre, the Staf-
growing town and new settlers included
Ranch is part of the five-star Lamar Consol-
ford Civic Center, Fort Bend Theatre and
German immigrants and African-Ameri-
idated Independent School District, with
an array of local shopping, dining, enter-
cans. Alief grew rapidly in the 1970s and
brand-new junior high and high schools
tainment
opportunities.
1980s and soon became home to a diverse
opened in 2016, and a new elementary
New-home offerings in Kingdom Heights
population. Today, it is home to Houston’s
school opening in August 2017. New homes
start in the mid $200’s from three quality
thriving Chinatown community and the
are offered by six leading homebuilders,
builders. Section 4 of the community will
desirable Westchase business district.
including
David
Weekley,
and
recreation
6/2/2017 4:57:05 PM
Highland,
be opening Fall 2017. Kingdom Heights
Newmark, Perry, Plantation and Westin.
development plan will eventually have 1,430
KATY
www.jordanranchtexas.com.
home sites.
One of the fastest-growing and most desir-
KINGDOM HEIGHTS
ALIEF
located where Fort Bend County, Harris
Recognized as a town in 1894, Alief is named after its first postmistress, Alief
County
able suburbs in the Houston area, Katy is Kingdom
Heights
was
carefully
and
uniquely designed to provide “lakefront”
18
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
and
Waller
County
converge.
The Katy Freeway (I-10 West), the Grand
Photo courtesy of Kingdom Heights
Parkway and the Westpark Tollway link
and as large tracts of developable land in
Katy to the nearby Energy Corridor and
Katy become harder to find. Today, Fulshear
all of Houston. From historic homes and
has some of the newest, largest and most
shops in Old Town Katy, to new homes
successful master-planned communities in
and upscale restaurants in some of the
the Houston region, including Cross Creek
nation’s largest and most popular master-
Ranch and Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek.
planned communities, Katy has it all. The
The extension of the Westpark Tollway
actual City of Katy has a population of
westward to Fulshear is underway and
about 15,000, but the overall Katy area is
will improve the already good mobility in
home to more than 300,000 people, which
the area. The appeal of the land is another
is more than Pittsburgh. Katy receives a
attraction, as the Katy prairie changes to
steady stream of accolades from national
gently rolling terrain around Fulshear.
publications and groups for its high quality of life, its highly regarded schools and its
The town was established in 1824 by Chur-
educated and affluent population. Some
chill Fulshear, one of Stephen F. Austin’s
of the biggest retail and entertainment
Old 300 settlers, who purchased parcels of
complexes in the Houston region are in the
land and set up a colony. In 1888, Fulshear
Katy area, including Katy Mills Mall, home
granted passage to the San Antonio &
to more than 200 premium outlet stores, and
Aransas Pass Railway and the town grew
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, offering dozens
to 11 stores, three saloons, a post office,
of shops, restaurants, salons and cafes in a
school and hotel. Today, Fulshear is under-
pedestrian friendly Main Street atmosphere.
going another kind of boom, as modern-day
The University of Houston and Houston
settlers stake their homestead claims. But
Community College both have campuses in
the town is still home to friendly fami-
Katy.
lies, descendants of the women who took lunches to the railway workers when then
FULSHEAR
stopped in their town. Niche.com rated the
In some ways, Fulshear is the new Katy, as
town the #1 place to raise a family in the
Houston’s growth marches ever westward,
Houston area.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
19
WO H E LUC S IONM GE &T O N EPI A GLHMB OB R EH AO CO H DS
BEAR CREEK & HIGHWAY 6 AREA
Nottingham; Wilchester; Fleetwood; and
were developed from the 1960s and today
Barkers Landing. These neighborhoods
are
The Bear Creek and Highway 6 area is a
are prized for their large, leafy lots, and for
neighborhoods.
wedge of prime west-by-northwest real
highly rated schools in the Houston and
estate located between I-10 West and U.S.
Katy school districts, along with many
290 West, and to the west of the Sam
outstanding private schools. Proximity to
Houston Tollway. The area is home to the
Energy Corridor employers and to shopping
Addicks and Barker reservoirs, created
at Memorial City Mall, CityCentre and the
in 1938 to control downstream flooding
Galleria increases the area’s appeal. The
of Buffalo Bayou. These reservoirs cover
redevelopment of the former Exxon Chem-
Spring Branch, which spreads along the
approximately 26,000 acres and lend the
ical campus nearby is adding a major new
north side of I-10 from about the 610 Loop
area a natural, small-town feel that persists
attraction. The area is also close to some
to the Beltway, maintains a suburban char-
today. They are also home to some of the
of Houston’s most popular parks, including
acter with post-World War II homes, 1950s
area’s largest and most popular parks and
Terry Hershey Park, with its well-used bike
era shopping plazas and tall trees. Starting
natural observation areas, including the
and running trails along Buffalo Bayou.
2,154-acre Bear Creek Park, offering trails,
established,
community-oriented
SPRING BRANCH / MEMORIAL Straddling the Katy Freeway are two very different areas – modest mid-century Spring Branch and the upscale Memorial area.
in the 1970s, a large number of apartment complexes began rising in the area, leading
sports fields, picnic areas and tennis courts.
BRIAR FOREST NEIGHBORHOODS
This area also has a number of estab-
Briar Forest is bounded by Buffalo Bayou
Spring Branch is coming back, however,
lished communities, including Copperfield.
to the north, Westheimer to the south,
with young homeowners moving in to
Located along Highway 6, just west of U.S.
Gessner to the east and Dairy Ashford to the
restore and expand existing homes, and
290, Copperfield was completed in the 1980s
west. With easy access to I-10, the beltway,
homebuilders
and early 1990s as one of Houston’s earliest
Westpark Tollway, Westheimer, Westchase
formerly occupied by apartments and shop-
master-planned communities. Thanks to
District and the Energy Corridor, the area
ping centers.
the scenic restrictions along Highway 6,
is very well situated. It includes the neigh-
the recreational areas and the protective
borhoods of Briargrove Park, Walnut Bend,
With names such as Bunker Hill Village and
covenants put in place by Friendswood
Lakeside Place and Ashford Forest which
Hedwig Village, the Memorial Villages are
Development Co., Copperfield is still a very
are all located along Briar Forest Drive.
nestled in a woody area along Memorial
attractive, desirable and well-maintained community. Other completed neighbor-
Briargrove Park, situated between Gessner
hoods in the area include Deerfield Village
and the Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8), is
and Hearthstone.
a closely knit, family-oriented neighborhood
Today, Towne Lake is one of the newest
homes.
of approximately 1,500 well-maintained
and largest master-planned communities in the area, which is preserving its natural appeal with hundreds of acres devoted to lakes and parks. It was named the 2016 Master-Planned Community of the Year by the Greater Houston Builder’s Association. Residents in this area are served by two highly successful school districts – Katy ISD and Cypress-Fairbanks ISD.
Walnut Bend is located west of Briargrove Park and the Sam Houston Tollway. Many homes are within walking distance of Walnut Bend Elementary and a popular community center with a swimming pool and tennis courts.
redeveloping
large
tracts
Drive, mostly south of I-10. Home to some of the wealthiest ZIP codes in Houston and the nation, these villages maintain a rural character with winding tree-filled lanes, huge lots and gated enclaves. Styles range from rambling brick ranch houses to Georgian-style mansions. Many well-kept townhome and condo complexes are also in the area. Stretching to the Beltway and beyond, the greater Memorial area is also heavily wooded and highly desired, with mature
The popular Lakeside Place neighborhoods
trees, well-preserved original homes and
stretch from Wilcrest to Kirkwood, and to
new construction.
the north of Briar Forest. Developed in the
MEMORIAL WEST
to its eventual decline.
1970s, they are surrounded by peaceful,
Residents of these neighborhoods shop at Memorial City Mall, the Galleria, and
“Memorial West” commonly refers to
wooded greenbelts and the prestigious Lake-
the middle ground between the close-in
side Country Club.
the
to Highway 6, with Memorial Drive as its
From Kirkwood to Dairy Ashford are the
Mobil campus is being transformed into
spine, with a succession of wooded, highly
“Ashford” subdivisions: Ashford Forest,
a mixed-use center set among ponds and
desirable
Ashford Village and Ashford Hills. They
woods.
Memorial area and Katy. It stretches west
20
neighborhoods:
Frostwood;
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
CityCentre
urban-style
mixed
use
center. Republic Square, the former Exxon
Chesmar Homes offers a unique choice - new home M • P • G [Modern Design Performance Guaranteed Green Certified]. It means a highly-efficient home that will save you money on energy costs every month in neighborhoods all around Houston. Visit today or Ask Your Realtor! KATY Elyson $260s-$310s | 713.865.0733 FULSHEAR Cross Creek Ranch $220s-$270s | 832.684.7004 Townhomes $200s-$220s | 832.457.8952
529
10
Cross Creek Ranch
1093
8
99 Westpark Tollway
G ay rkw Pa nd ra
RICHMOND Lakes of Bella Terra Fortunata Collection $240s-$290s | 281.253.3501 Sausalito Collection $350s-$410s | 281.382.8072
290
Elyson
Lakes of Bella Terra
59
CHESMAR.com UPTOWN Uptown is the term that Galleria area boosters have worked to establish for the entire neighborhood surrounding Houston’s most iconic shopping mall. Whether you call it Uptown or simply the Galleria area, it’s arguably the city’s most prolific spot for high-rise and mid-rise condominiums that are for sale rather than for lease. A good example is the Astoria, a 75-unit high-rise on Post Oak Boulevard. Nearly sold out before it was completed, this 29-story Art Deco style building is just one of many new high-rise developments in the area. Just up San Felipe, the dense urban vibe of the Galleria gives way to sedate,
Visit Hayden Lakes, an established master-planned community in the Tomball school district. 7 Models Now Open!
New Homes from the mid $200s to the $500s
well-planned neighborhoods such as Tanglewood, perhaps best known as the current neighborhood of former President George H.W. Bush. Filled with parks, shady esplanades and large leafy lots, Tanglewood has rambling ranch houses alongside newer Mediterranean and English style homes.
HAYDENLAKES.COM Prices, offers and financing subject to change without notice.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
21
WO H E LUC S IONM GE &T O N EPI A GLHMB OB R EH AO CO H DS
Harris County
1876
N
D
Stafford Missouri City
LR
and soils; many bayous, canals Harris County © Texas Almanac
521
Deer Park
South Houston
William P. Hobby Airport
UP
LR LR
UP
UP
La Porte
99
Morgans Point
146
Shoreacres Taylor 8 Johnson Lake Village k Space ee 35 Cr Clear Center El Lago Pearland Clear 2351 Seabrook Lake BRAZORIA Webster Nassau Friendswood Bay 270 146 518 45 3 League 528 City NASA1 8 MILES G A LV E S T O N
G
for artificial drainage; Lake Houston, Sheldon Reservoir; partly forested. 0
Population 4,538,028 Change fm 2010 10.9 Area (sq.mi.) 1,777.5 Land area(sq.mi.) 1,703.5 Altitude (ft.) sea level–310
288
865
610
134
225
146
Baytown
ton el us ann Ho Ch ip Sh
level; typically coastal surface
59
90A
UP
BNSF
BE
PTRA
Pasadena
330
SAN JACINTO MONUMENT
Bay
T
Ferry
BATTLESHIP TEXAS
10
on
R
Southside Place
Channelview Free
Galena Park
West University Place
69 Bellaire
FT. BEND PARKWAY
eastern half of state;
6
8
1942
ve
Largest county in
FO
Alief
UP
1093
Barrett Highlands McNair
8
Jacinto City
Hunters Creek Vil. Piney Point Vil.
Bunker Hill Vil.
Sheldon
CHAMBERS
99
u Bayo fa l o BufBarker Reservoir
610
to
u
Barker
10
Spring Valley Hedwig Addicks Vil.
Ja ci n
o Bay
UP Katy 90
HOUSTONUP Hilshire Vil.
er
v Ri
Addicks Reservoir
SHELDON LAKE STATE PARK
Crosby n
Sa
LR
yo u Greens Ba
59
UP
HARDY OAD TOLL R
529
SHELDON WILDLIFE MGMT AREA
Cedar
525
Aldine
Jersey Village
6
90
UP
al
R
1960
2100
Lake Houston
UP
LLE
ss
Cypre
8
Huffman
UP
George Bush 69 Humble Intercontinental Airport
Cypress Creek
Atascocita
Y
WA
6
99
1960
nt o
UP LR
LR
RT
LR
Klein
BE
LR
290
Kingwood
rk Fo i st We Jac n Sa
SF
Hockley
99
Spring
2920
BN
Waller
LR
Tomball
2920 LR
Rainfall (in.) 56.81 Jan. mean. min. 43.4 July mean max. 90.7 Civilian labor 2,279,367 Unemployed 5.3
Photo courtesy of Katy Mills Mall
Wages $37,346,009,148 Per Capita Inc. $55,088 Prop. Value $472,155,923,085 Retail Sales $88,892,139,887
Photo courtesy of Topgolf
Photo courtesy of GHCVB
ALIEF Millie Bush Dog Park, Alief Amity Park, Hong Kong Market, Vietnamese Culture & Science Association KATY Katy Mills Mall, KCAM Contemporary Art Museum, LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, Typhoon Texas MEMORIAL WEST Terry Hershey Park, Citycentre, Memorial City Mall, Town and Country Village MEMORIAL AREA IKEA, iFly Indoor Skydiving, Texas Rock Gym, Sky High Sports, Topgolf UPTOWN Galleria Houston & ICE at the Galleria, Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, iPic Theaters
22
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
UP
LI
LR
1485
Ea San st Fork Jacinto
eek Spring Cr
MONTGOMERY
45
Hufsmith
st
2978 249
310'
UP
362
362 1488
UP
1736
Since 1976
COST OF LIVING
When it comes to overall cost of living, Houston is still an affordable place to live and work. Here’s how the Houston area ranked in a comparison to other major U.S. cities (based on the QTR 1 2017 annual average) City
Composite 100%
Grocery 13.61%
Atlanta
97.7
Austin
97.7
Boston
86.8
Utilities 1 0.03%
Transportation 9.59%
Healthcare Misc. 4.00% 35.15%
91.1
89.2
101.4
99.8
99.9 96.6
99.2 99.8
123
109.3
152.5
89.1 129.3
102.6 115.5
Cleveland
101.4
110.8
89.7
98.7 103.3
102 107.1
Dallas / Fort Worth
101.2
90.6
Denver
111.8
99.7
Houston
133
111.5
100.4
204.4
102.4
146.6
107.8
107.1
Chicago
148.6
104.7
Housing 27.59%
102.3
101.2
95.1 108.4
134.1
103.4
133.1
103.7
104.7 106.3
97
84.8
104.8
99.3
92.9
90.6
96.7
New York City (Manhattan)
230.8
129
479.9
119.2
130.6
114.6
147.1
Philadelphia
116.2
115.3
129
121.9 112.2
Phoenix
94.7
97.5
97.8
98.1 90.7
Charlotte
94.8
94.2
86.5
90.7
97
San Francisco
188.5
121.9
351.8
114.4
130.3
Seattle
145.1
128.5
181.7
120.7 128.4
Tucson
94.5
102.4
83.3
88.5
96.8
105.4 107.3 98.9 90.9 102.9 101.1 123.7
130.7
125.7 136.5 101.7 100.5
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
23
in this section
Photo courtesy of Cross Creek Ranch
temporary lodging rent or buy choosing a realtor mortgage options
24
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
HOME FRONT In West Houston, There’s A Home For You.
and lofts available for lease or sale.
one percent of the sale price for maintenance; another is to set aside one dollar per
Begin your search for the right home at the
square foot per year. There’s no hard and
Real Estate section of www.houstonnew-
fast rule, but generally, upkeep costs will go
comerguides.com or by visiting www.har.
up as the age of the home increases and the
com.
condition deteriorates. Most new homes
HOME OWNERSHIP
have warranties that cover problems for the first few years. And home warranty policies
There’s nothing like owning your own piece
can be purchased for re-sale homes. In addi-
of property to help you feel connected to an
tion, make sure you are aware of any deed
area and its people. And if you’re looking for
restrictions or homeowner’s association
a home to call your own, West Houston has
regulations that might be in effect in your
plenty of choices: brand-new custom homes,
chosen area and any corresponding assess-
new production-builder home, townhouses,
ments. Taxes vary by county, school district
resale houses, and all have their advantages.
and Municipal Utility District (MUD). The
The first consideration is location, location,
good news is that mortgage interest and
Houston is a city of options; you can live
location. Where do you want to live? What
property taxes can be deducted from your
close to your work, surrounded by nature,
neighborhoods appeal? Do you want a new
federal income tax.
in a vibrant community, near exciting
housing development with the latest ameni-
amenities, or any combination of these. In
ties, or a settled community with established
The best place to start is with a professional
addition to choice, you’ll find bargains and
traditions? What about a yard? Walking or
REALTOR®, who will be able to guide you
with today’s low interest rates, now might be
recreational opportunities? Proximity to
and your family to the right area and choice.
a good time to buy a house in West Houston,
shops and work? And the big one: schools?
where almost every housing budget can be
Even if you don’t have children, buying in
PRE-OWNED HOMES
accommodated. Single-family home buyers
an area with excellent schools will pay off
Very often, pre-owned homes are situated
can choose eco-friendly designs, new homes
when it comes time to sell.
in established neighborhoods. This allows
The rapid growth of West Houston means newcomers can find everything they need for a smooth move – from abundant temporary and permanent housing choices, to skilled realtors and custom builders who are eager to help.
you to assess the character of the commu-
in master-planned neighborhoods, luxury residences in gated communities or resale
Of course, even after the sale goes through,
nity, talk to a couple of neighbors, get a feel
homes in established districts. You may
there are costs associated with owning your
for the street. Watch for great locations on
want to consider leasing as well, and there
own home. Maintenance and repairs will
golf courses, near parks, lakes or shops. Is
are a range of condominiums, townhouses
be required. One rule of thumb is to budget
the house in an area zoned to a desirable
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
25
WO H E LMCEOFM R EO N TO T PA L M B E A C H
Photo courtesy of Beazer Homes
Photo courtesy of Cross Creek Ranch
school? Or is it in an area prone to flooding?
Even if the house is sound, you may want
finishes, appliance choices and other options
Are there homeowner’s associations, deed
to do a little or a lot of remodeling. From
vary, and it’s important to begin fine-tuning
restrictions or zoning laws? Remember, you
painting walls to removing them, you
your tastes and preferences. Designers can
can change the ugly house, but you cannot
may need to hire the services of a remod-
help with selecting packages and upgrades
change its ugly location. You will also want
eling company to realize your dream. The
to complete a home beautifully as well as
to consider your commute. How far is it to
Greater
Association
on time and on budget. Production houses
work? How does that cost in convenience,
(www.ghba.org) is an excellent source of
can usually be finished in 90 to 120 days,
time and money compared to the cost of the
reputable home improvement companies.
and most builders have homes in varying
house?
Other useful sources of information are the
stages of completion and can accommo-
local area Chambers of Commerce and the
date newcomers who need to move in
Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org).
quickly. Right now, homes in a variety of
Realtors often specialize in particular neigh-
Houston
Builders
borhoods and can give you the benefit of their years of experience and local knowledge.
NEW HOMES
styles, locations and price points are under construction. Please visit www.Houston-
If starting from scratch and building from
NewcomerGuides.com for a complete list
the ground up appeals to you, the many
of homebuilders in the West Houston area.
outstanding homebuilders in West Houston
The Greater Houston Builders Association
are ready to help. There is a wide range of
works to “provide advocacy, education and
choices for home sites – in new and estab-
meaningful services to benefit its members
lished subdivisions, on the waterfront,
and the housing industry. On its website
need transformations in order to meet your
on a golf course, even with a pastoral or
(www.ghba.com), you can find a list of
needs. Before you purchase a pre-owned
forested setting on an acreage. A realtor
area builders, spec builders, neighborhoods,
home, hire a licensed inspector to analyze
can quickly narrow down your site-selec-
product and service providers, as well as
the house, inside and out, and evaluate its
tion process by matching the best locations
other consumer resources.
condition. Inspections will identify struc-
to your needs; she can also work with you
tural and hard-to-spot problems that need to
to find a builder. Some specialize in green
You may be dreaming about a custom
be addressed. If repairs are needed, be sure
building and energy efficiency or may have
home. While building one takes time and
to get several estimates for the entire project.
advanced training from the National Asso-
planning, the effort and wait are often worth
Use the Chambers of Commerce in this
ciation of Home Builders (NAHB). Be sure
it, especially if you work with a quality
guide for referrals. In addition, the Better
to tour model homes to evaluate the designs,
builder: you get an outstanding, distinc-
Business Bureau also offers important infor-
features, and workmanship of each builder.
tive home built right to your specifications.
mation on home-repair companies.
The architectural styles, floor plans, interior
Some customs homes are one-of-a-kind,
Pre-owned homes are as different in style and character as their previous owners were, and often this adds wonderful appeal and opportunity. Some homes are ready to move in; some need a little work; others
26
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
created using original plans from the ground
enriched by youth sports leagues, welcoming
up. In other cases, builders work with buyers
recreation centers, and local events, all of
to customize rooms, adjust square footage,
which bring neighbors together.
add details or energy-saving features. Whatever your new-home dream, it’s not too
CHOOSING A REALTOR
early to talk to a builder. You will also want
The right realtor can save you thousands.
to view homes already built by the company
Buying or selling a house is a considerable
and, if possible, speak to homeowners about
transaction and involves real estate law,
their experience with the builder and the
title insurance policies, home warranties,
process. Be sure to interview two or more
home lending practices, appraisals, inspec-
builders before signing a contract. Ask them
tions, hazard insurance, surveys and other
how long they’ve been in business, how
issues; the services of a realtor are highly
many homes they’ve completed and if they
recommended. Especially for people new to
have any references. Once you’ve chosen
the area, a realtor can save time as well as
the builder, review the contract carefully.
money. A realtor can swiftly locate homes
You should understand if the final price is
that fit with your lifestyle, price range, educa-
guaranteed, what the move-in date is and
tional needs, location and other criteria.
how upgrades or change orders are handled. Attorneys who specialize in construction are available to review contracts and their fee may save you money in the long run, helping you to avoid misunderstandings and frustration.
MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES
“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.”
Professional Service You Can Trust!
How do you choose the right realtor? Understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who
Your Houston Real Estate & Apartment Locating Specialists
281.326.HOME
www.DavidTheLocator.com
The popularity of master-planned communities has been one of the reasons West Houston continues to grow. These communities are some of the finest in the country because they plan for the best use of the land, allowing exceptional living, lower environmental impact, quality construction, and mixed use, which attracts families and businesses alike. All of this adds up to thriving, vibrant neighborhoods. Large parcels of land in Katy, Fulshear and the Grand Parkway area have been carefully set out for home sites and commercial use. Housing
There are so many reasons to fall in love with a Beazer home. With beautiful elevations and spacious floorplans that fit your lifestyle in 15 communities across the city, you’re sure to find the home of your dreams. Here are three more reasons to choose a Beazer home: Choose your lender with our Mortgage Choices Program
choices in master-planned communities focus on single-family homes in a variety of styles, sizes and price points. However, townhouses and apartment homes are also included in the planned areas and they often share common greenbelts and recreational
Save money on utilities! 100% ENERGY STAR® certified homes with spray foam insulation Choice Plans™ allow you to personalize your home for no additional cost
facilities. Schools, shopping, health care and other services are close to home and, very often, so is work or a transit center which cuts down, or softens the commute. Master planners understand that their designs are for people and their communities are further
New homes from the $190s to $400s Visit beazer.com or call 281-214-0450 to find your home today. Pricing, features and availability subject to change without notice. See New Home Counselor for complete details. © 2017 Beazer Homes 6/17 139618
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
27
WO H E LMCEOFM R EO N TO T PA L M B E A C H
LOOKING FOR HOMES JUST GOT EASIER…
Search more than 8 million properties
Ask Your REALTOR®
HOMES And RENTALS is a member of the National Association of
non-adversarial fashion and are very knowl-
houses and apartment homes are available
REALTORS® cannot discriminate against
edgeable of the most current real-estate
in West Houston right now. The prices are
someone based on race, religion, gender,
practices. Realtors can also be certified as
determined by location, square footage, and
handicap, family status or national origin.
Texas Affordable Housing Specialists, which
amenities.
recognizes training in green technologies Talk to a number of realtors before making
that can make some houses more afford-
Apartment locators or leasing agents at the
your decision, talk to some of their previous
able than others. There are realtors who
complexes are ready to answer questions,
clients and review their current and recent
also specialize in green housing and have
assist with move-in details and help new
listings. You might want to ask the following:
been certified by Earth Advantage. They are
residents become familiar with the neighbor-
• How long have you worked in real estate?
trained to spot and understand the advan-
hood. Select properties provide apartment
• Is real estate your full-time job?
tages of green construction. An EcoBrokers
information, floor plans, photos and virtual
• Do you prefer to work with buyers or
designation means a realtor has extensive
tours online. What may be considered
training in conservation and green energy.
luxurious in other parts of the country is
sellers?
standard in West Houston. Many units
• Do you specialize in a particular area or Your realtor should be someone who is an
have fireplaces, ceiling fans, built-in micro-
expert on the area and the industry. But he
waves, washer/dryer connections, on-site
should also be easy to work with and willing
recreational facilities and covered parking.
• How many closings do you have each year?
to listen. You’ll be spending time together;
Some facilities allow pets. Most require a
• Do you work on a team?
make sure it will be enjoyable as well as
security deposit and a credit card report;
• Do you have any designations,
productive.
leases range from six months to one year.
neighborhood? • What is the average price of properties that you close?
certifications, awards or special training?
Month-to-month leases are available but
APARTMENT HOMES
usually command higher prices. Complexes
Realtors with the CBR (Certified Buyer
If you move a lot, or if your budget does not
have different plans for utilities, cable and
Representative) are exclusively committed to
allow for a home purchase, renting or leasing
Internet service, and additional deposits
providing excellent buyer representation in a
might be the answer for you. Many rental
and activations services may be necessary.
28
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Buying or Selling Your Home? Get real advice from real experts.
Discuss any special housing requirements you may have with the leasing agent and be sure that the terms are written into the lease. In Texas, all real estate agreements must be in writing. Go to the Houston Apartment Association (www.haaonline.org) to download sample lease forms.
RECOGNIZED. RESPECTED. RECOMMENDED.
RENTAL HOUSES Need more room or amenities than an apartment can offer? Houses, condos and
RELOCATION SPECIALISTS
townhomes can also be leased and are
HOUSTON BUSINESS JOURNAL AWARD-WINNING TEAM
usually listed with area realtors or property management companies. Sometimes, individual owners will list their units in area
NATIONAL QE AWARD RECIPIENT FOR VERIFIED EXTRAORDINARY CUSTOMER SERVICE IN REAL ESTATE
newspapers or online. Rental houses and townhomes are listed on the Houston Association of Realtors (www.HAR.com) and are updated every 15 minutes.
Broker |Owner
Realtors are the best source for leasing single-family homes. Check out preferred neighborhoods,
considering
Karen Karapasha 281.599.6590 | karenk@karapasharealty.com 21306-A Provincial Blvd. | Katy, TX 77450
community
pools, civic associations and deed restrictions. Most single-family houses do not include utilities in the lease, so tenants must arrange for electricity, water, gas, cable and internet separately. Deposits are usually one-month’s rent and there may be extra fees for pets, utility installations or service charges. Rental rates vary as much as the
An Independently Owned and Operated Franchisee of Real Living Real Estate LLC
w w w . k a r a p a s h a r e a l t y. c o m HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
29
WO H E LMCEOFM R EO N TO T PA L M B E A C H
properties on offer, starting at around $2000 per month and increasing with the size, location, and condition of the property.
TEMPORARY LODGING Interim housing with a range of rental terms is also available. Motels, hotels and luxury suites are often handy to business districts and key roads and can be found throughout West Houston. Many offer exercise rooms, Wi-fi, Jacuzzis and mini kitchens. Short stays are a convenient necessity during a move, but if you stay longer than 30 consecutive days, you will qualify for an exemption from the state’s six percent hotel tax. Be sure to advise the hotel of your extended stay and go to www.cpa.state. tx.us for an exemption certificate. (Always consult a tax professional for specific tax information).
DEED RESTRICTIONS Deed restrictions, land-use and building regulations, protect homeowners and their property value. Often functioning in place of zoning laws, they ensure a home is not turned into a commercial establishment or apartment. Deed restrictions are recorded in county records and are binding for all property owners. Some master-planned communities have stricter restrictions to ensure the continued success of the development. New homeowners should be familiar with existing deed restrictions and consult them before making any improvements to the property.
COMMUNITY AND HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS In many neighborhoods, community and homeowner
associations
establish
and
enforce deed restrictions, and all property owners are required to be members. Most community associations are set up as non-profit corporations and are comprised of property owners within the development. New homeowners become automatic members of the association when they acquire title to the property and are then bound by its rules and enforcement power. Often, there is an annual maintenance fee.
30
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
MANAGEABLE.
AFFORDABLE. LIFESTYLE.
People are buying houses in Houston; in fact, the Houston Association of Realtors recently reported that home sales were up by 11.5% from the same time last year. And the median home price increased to $235,000 because of a strong showing of luxury home sales. However, Houston still ranks as one of the most affordable big cities in the U.S. for homeownership, and is a place where homes tend to retain their value because of new buyers entering the market. “In all, Houston’s economic diversity and health will continue to protect and preserve home values over the long haul, and it will continue to be a great place to live, work and raise a family,” says Houston real estate
expert and blogger Toni Nelson.
minimum FICO credit score of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are also offered
West Houston offers a great deal of value within the greater Houston region. Highly regarded schools, vast parks and a thriving economy add further value to home choices that range from townhomes to estate homes, both newly built and existing. In addition, the lending climate may be easier for first-time buyers. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered mortgage corporations, recently relaxed lending guidelines that were tightened after the national housing in 2008. Now, some buyers can get a mortgage with only a 3 percent down payment and a
by various government agencies.
Some
groups, including teachers, police officers and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs.
HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD? Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to home ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that Houston area residents typically spend about 30 percent of their incomes on
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
31
WO H E LMCEOFM R EO N TO T PA L M B E A C H
payment, enables the buyer to meet the income and debt-ratio requirement.
DOWN PAYMENT The down payment is the cash committed toward the purchase of a home. For most loans, a down payment of 20 percent of the purchase price is required to avoid paying Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), although it is possible to take out a secondary loan to avoid PMI.
INTEREST RATES
housing, so the city overall is right in line with that advice, albeit slightly on the high side. Experts also suggest that household expenses not exceed 43 percent of personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insurance, credit card balances, utilities, food and health care as well as any payments on outstanding loans and leases are expenses, while household income includes salary and other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of townhomes, condos and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be considered in the overall expenses. Developed by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, the Texas Housing Affordability Index (THAI) refers to the ability of a median-income family to purchase a median-priced house in an area, reflecting the capacity of that family to qualify for a mortgage, using standard financing terms. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that the median household income is just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the median-priced home; a ratio of less than 1.0 suggests that the family cannot afford the house. Houston’s THAI for the fourth quarter of 2016 was 1.92.
MORTGAGE OPTIONS Several different types of mortgages are common today. A standard 30-year fixed
32
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
rate mortgage is the most common way to finance a home; 15-year fixed rate mortgages are another option. The 40-year mortgage has become more popular in some parts of the country where home prices are rising fast, but many experts agree that the tradeoff of a slightly lower monthly payment for much more interest paid over the life of the loan does not make economic sense. For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the mortgage, payment, the interest rate and the term of the loan are fixed and fully self-amortizing, which means at the end of the term, the principal has been repaid. The purchase price less the down payment is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing the principal by the number of payments in a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding the interest determines the monthly house payment. Escrow money for taxes and insurance is added to the payments according to the terms of the lender, and the amounts are recalculated annually. The Alternative Mortgage Instrument (AMI) is a loan in which at least one of the four components varies. The most common AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins low and periodically adjusts either up or down within limits based on a pre-specified index. The initial low rate, and therefore, the lower monthly
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate mortgages reset according to the terms of the lender. Interest rates are expected to continue to remain near historic lows.
CLOSING COSTS Typically, between 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price of a home, closing costs include related fees such as costs for running credit reports, loan origination, appraisal, survey, title insurance, and discount points paid to lower the interest rate. Closing costs are usually paid by the buyer at the time of closing.
CREDIT REPORT Lenders will require a credit report from the credit bureau that has collected your credit history for the past 7 to 10 years. Credit reports document your financial history and reflect the amount of credit you have, the timeliness with which you pay your bills, if you have declared bankruptcy and other factors that give the lender a financial snapshot. Traditional mortgage lenders require an established credit history, but some lenders may offer more flexible mortgage programs for people with limited or no established credit record. Credit reports also carry your credit score, a numeric ranking between 300 and 850 that many lenders use. It is calculated using five factors: payment history, amount of outstanding debt, length of credit history,
new credit and the sources of credit in use. In addition to informing lenders of credit-worthiness, your credit score can also determine the interest rate you pay. The better the credit score, the lower the interest rate. More information on credit scoring is at www.myfico.com. TransUnion® 1-877-322-8228 or www.transunion.com EquiFax® 1-800-685-1111 or www.equifax.com Experian® 1-888-397-3742 or www. Experian.com
PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is beneficial because it gives sellers a level of assurance that the prospective buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big plus in a competitive market. Pre-approval requires the completion of a loan application and sometimes a fee. Pre-qualification, on the other hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a prospective buyer might qualify for.
TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. For more information, visit www.irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
BANKS Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competitive rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services, different accounts, minimum balance requirements, ATM charges, availability of funds policy, direct deposit and other options. Contact the Texas Department of Banking toll free 877-276-5554 or visit www.dob. texas.gov.
competitive rates. Historically, credit unions have been employer-based financial institutions but today it is common for credit unions to be community-based, meaning that anyone can use a credit union as their primary financial institution. Members are insured for up to $250,000 per account by the National Credit Union Administration.
MULTIPLE POLICIES. THE SMART WAY TO SAVE. +
More information about credit unions is available from the Texas Credit Union League (www.tcul.org) and the Credit Union National Association (www.cuna. org).
HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE Homeowner’s insurance is required by mortgage lenders, and is essential even if a home is paid for. Buyers are typically asked
Call me today for a free quote!
832.252.9413 Chris Liebum
to pay one year of insurance at closing, with
Your Local Agent
premiums included in monthly mortgage payments. Selecting an insurance company and determining coverage is the responsibility of the buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract to purchase a house is accepted by the seller. The Texas Board of Insurance (www. tdi.state.tx.gov) is a valuable source of information. In some fast-transitioning West Houston neighborhoods, the value of the lot may represent a much larger-than-average share of overall property value, and it may be a good idea to talk with several insurance companies – especially those who specialize in the area – to make sure you are getting ample coverage and the best rate. Many companies offer discounts when home insurance is combined with auto coverage, life insurance, health insurance and other types of insurance that may be required. In the Houston and surrounding areas, flood insurance is required or recommended by mortgage companies in some
Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by farmers insurance exchange and other affiliated insurance comapnies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS A variety of programs are designed to help first-time buyers, including FHA loans with a 3 percent down payment as previously discussed. The City of Houston, Harris County and other governmental entities also offer homebuyer assistance programs that can provide down
payment
assistance
and
special
financing for buyers who meet certain household income and purchase price criteria. Helpful websites include www.houstontx.gov/housing and www.hrc.hctx.net. Other programs include Southeast Texas Housing Finance (www.sethfc.com) and the Harris County Downpayment Assistance Program (harriscountytx.gov/csd). Information is also available from the Texas Department of Housing & Community Affairs (www.tdhca.state.tx.us ).
CREDIT UNIONS
neighborhoods. Check with your builder,
Credit unions are a good source for mortgage loans because they may offer lower or
realtor or lender to determine the status of
Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders are also good sources of information about
your property.
available homebuyer assistance programs.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
33
in this section moving companies forwarding mail utilities public transportation international relocation
34
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
RELOCATION INFORMATION
Organize. Prepare. Relax. Making a stress-free move to your new home With its energetic pulse and cosmopolitan yet neighborly personality, West Houston awaits your arrival. But first, check out these basics provided to help make your move smooth and easy. Then you’ll be ready to
to take into consideration your back, time
Moving companies offer three types of esti-
and effort.
mates: the binding estimate, non-binding estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate.
At the other extreme, the global economy of Houston – and West Houston in particular
The binding estimate lists all items to be
– draws newcomers from all over the world,
shipped and the required services on the
and there are a few important considerations
estimate form, and the price quoted is the
to keep in mind when moving from over-
price paid. Every charge is itemized, so that
seas. If your move is work-related, find out
if an item is added or deleted, it is easy to
how much of the expense will be covered.
re-calculate the cost. The moving company
As a general rule, many experts recommend
must also specify the length of time the
scaling the move down to essential items
price quote is in effect, which is usually 60
and those with emotional value. Find out
days. This type of estimate does not require
about import fees and duty costs, especially
additional payment over the amount of the
for things you may have purchased abroad. Also consider the size of your new space: will it be larger or smaller than the home
enjoy everything this dynamic region has to
you’re leaving? If you’re a U.S. citizen who
offer.
is moving back from overseas, then you might have many items in U.S. storage, so
MOVING COMPANIES If you are moving from out of state, it may be necessary to hire a moving company. The best time to move is the middle of the month rather than the end or during summer vacation, when moving companies are usually
you’ll need to plan the logistics of getting these to your new home as well.
TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES Most companies give free estimates based
estimate. The non-binding estimate, which is the only type of estimate offered in some intrastate situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost of services is determined after the truck is loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20 percent. Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both before and after furniture and household items are loaded to accurately calculate the total weight. The estimated amount of your move should be entered on each form that
busiest.
on distance and the weight of household
If the move is less than 250 miles away, and
the costs of packing materials in their bid
you don’t have much stuff, consider making
while others break out supplies separately.
the move yourself. Compare the relative
Packing services, fuel charges, wait time and
costs of moving yourself versus using the
temporary storage costs may vary consider-
The third type of estimate, called the
services of a moving company, and be sure
ably so be sure to ask about all charges.
not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best.
contents. Some moving companies include
is prepared by the mover, including orders for special services and bills of lading. If the amounts are not included, do not sign or accept the document.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
35
WEELLO R CC OAMT E I OTNO I N PA FO LM R MB A EA T IC OHN
The mover gives a binding estimate, then
receive the delivery, your belongings will go
shopping for new items that will fit your new
weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if
into storage, and the moving company may
space perfectly.
the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all
require payment in cash before unloading.
movers if they offer this type of service.
Some companies specialize in renting furni-
Tax deductions may apply to your move so
ture to newcomers and offer packages by the
MORE CONSIDERATIONS
keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S.
household, the room or the piece. They also
Be aware that many moving companies fall
at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov, or ask your
offer different styles, along with accessories
behind schedule, so consider hiring a moving
tax preparer or attorney.
such as artwork, lighting, rugs and indoor
company that will guarantee a pickup and
Tips for Hiring a Moving Company
delivery date. Make sure those dates are
• Select a moving company carefully by confirming their license at www.protectyourmove.gov
in the contract. Pick-up and delivery dates should not be open-ended. Although
moving
companies
provide
liability insurance on household belongings by the pound, it is wise to purchase extra insurance that provides additional coverage, especially for those items that are more
• The Southwest Association is another resource for information about moving companies and they can be reached at www.southwestmovers.org or 512-4760107, Toll Free: 800-759-2305
plants. Flexible lease terms, quick delivery and professional setup and removal are some of the services offered by rental companies. If you decide you love a particular item, purchase is usually available.
FORWARDING MAIL To submit your change of address, go to www.usps.com. The USPS can hold your mail, forward or accommodate a change of address.
Before the movers arrive, make preparations.
• Contact the Better Business Bureau for any complaints that might be on file at www.houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500.
Take an inventory of your belongings and
• The Interstate Commerce Commission
Legal Records maintained by Harris County
valuable.
note their condition. If the moving company
LEGAL RECORDS and Fort Bend County include birth certifi-
carefully against your own before signing
offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.” ICC Office of Compliance and Consumer
anything. Should any of your belong-
Assistance, Washington, D.C., 20423.
divorce proceedings, DBAs, taxes, and more.
performs their own inventory, check it
ings arrive with scratches, dents or other
cates, death certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and inspections, Contact the county of residence for specific
damages, photographs will help verify a
You can also find the brochure on many
claim so consider taking pictures of valuable
websites by searching for its title.
services offered. The Harris County Civil Court House is
items or making a video inventory before the movers arrive.
FURNITURE AND APPLIANCE RENTAL
It is important to be sure you will be at your
In some cases, it may be necessary to rent
new home on the date the moving company
furniture or appliances while waiting for
The Fort Bend County Court House is
is scheduled to deliver. If no one is home to
your old ones to be delivered, or while
located at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle,
36
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
located at 20l Caroline, Houston, TX, 77002. Phone: 713-755-6411. www.co.harris.tx.us
Uninterrupted quality time
Stream movies and shows, faster The results are in. XFINITY® delivers the fastest Internet in America, based on over 60 million consumer tests run at Speedtest.net. Enjoy reliably fast speeds, even during peak hours, so everyone can do what they love online — all at the same time.
Call 1-877-806-7198 or visit xfinity.com today for a great offer on the XFINITY® X1 Triple Play
Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. America’s fastest Internet based on report at Speedtest.net/awards/us. Speedtest is a trademark of Ookla, LLC. Used under license. Reliably fast claim based on 2014 FCC Measuring Broadband America report. © 2016 Comcast. All rights reserved. NPA173012-0008
110863_NPA173012-0008 Lifestyle ad_7.5x4.875.indd 1
1/14/16 1:47 PM
Richmond, TX, 77469. Phone: 281-342-
Energy owns and maintains the electric
STAR home at houstonenergystarhomes.
3411. www.fortbendcountytx.gov
delivery system and sells natural gas. Visit
com.
UTILITIES
www.centerPointEnergy.com to learn more. CenterPoint Energy’s ENERGY STAR for
ELECTRICITY
ENERGY STAR certified homes use less
New Homes Program, is just one of the utili-
Retail Electric Providers compete to sell
energy than homes built to the Texas resi-
ties programs that supports energy-efficiency
electricity, allowing consumers to compare
dential building code, are third-party tested,
efforts. Visit www.centerpointefficiency.com
plans, pricing and features. The Public
and provide homeowners with a better
for more information on CenterPoint Ener-
Utility Commission recommends the three
lifestyle for less money. By purchasing an
gy’s energy efficiency programs.
“C’s” before selecting a provider: contact,
ENERGY STAR certified home, you can
compare, and choose. Allow several days for
have all the features you desire in your new
WATER AND SEWER
the order to process. If establishing service
home, plus better performance and lower
Water, sewage and drainage services are
for a new home or building, a permit or
utility bills-all while helping prevent green-
typically provided by the public works
inspection may be required.
house gas emissions.
department in each city, or by a municipal utility district (MUD). There are a number
Select electricity, natural gas, local phone
Many of the leading builders in the Houston
of these districts throughout Houston, Katy,
and long distance, cable or satellite televi-
area build ENERGY STAR certified homes:
Fulsher and services vary. Contact your
sion, and high-speed Internet services at
Ashton Woods Homes, Beazer Homes,
local city or homeowner’s association for
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
Castlerock Communities, David Weekley
detailed information.
Homes,
Dunhill
Builders,
First
Texas
GAS CENTERPOINT ENERGY
Homes, Grand View Builders, Greeneco Builders, Infinity Classic Homes, KB Home,
TELEPHONE, CABLE, AND INTERNET SERVICE
CenterPoint Energy is the major provider
Kickerillo Homes, Lennar Homes, Meritage
The Greater Houston area has four area
for natural gas in the greater West Houston
Homes, Riverway Builders, Ryland Homes.
codes: 713, 281, 832, and the newest,
Area. As the regulated utility, CenterPoint
Learn more about buying an ENERGY
346. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
37
WEELLO R CC OAMT E I OTNO I N PA FO LM R MB A EA T IC OHN
is required. The many telephone service
company is dedicated to turning tech-
Harris County, also known as METRO, is
providers to choose from also offer satellite
nology into solutions, connecting people
recognized as one of the best and safest bus
and cable television services, along with
and enriching how their customers work
systems in the nation offering an extensive
bundled services, special promotional rates
and live. Consolidated prides itself on deliv-
system of bus routes and a growing network
and discounts for newcomers.
ering a better experience by putting their
of light-rail lines.
customers’ needs first; building a stronger
COMCAST / XFINITY
community through employee volunteerism
For
It’s Easy To Get Xfinity In Your New
and company giving; and evolving and inno-
provides Park & Ride services from three
Home. Call 1-877-500-6828 Today!
vating to meet and exceed the needs and
locations in West Houston and Katy,
expectations of their customers.
including Addicks (Highway 6), Kingsland
Get connected to XFINITY – TV, Internet, and
Voice
service
made
possible
by
Comcast’s network upgrade to an all-digital
commuting
alternatives,
METRO
and Grand Parkway. Visit
www.consolidated.com or call 844.
YOUR.CCI (844-968-7224).
The Harris County Motorist Assistance Program (MAP), sponsored in part by
platform. They will set up your new home in no time. You can even choose your own
TRASH PICKUP
METRO, helps motorists experiencing car
convenient two-hour appointment window.
The City of Houston and many other munic-
trouble on Houston area freeways. The
Also ask about Xfinity Home, combining
ipalities, such as The Memorial Villages and
specially marked MAP vehicles are equipped
Security, Control, Energy and Peace of
the cities of Katy and Fulshear, provide
to handle minor automotive emergencies.
Mind at your fingertips. For more informa-
trash pick-up. Call the solid waste depart-
tion visit www.comcast.com/moversedge.
ment in your jurisdiction to find out which
Houston’s major highways – including the
day garbage and light trash are collected.
Katy Freeway and U.S. 290 West – have
CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS
Many subdivisions opt to contract with local
vehicles with two or more passengers during
Consolidated Communications is a leading
collection companies, and fees for these
peak travel periods. To share a ride, contact
business
communica-
services are typically included in the home-
the METRO Carpool Matching Service at
tions provider serving customers across its
owner’s association dues. Contact your
713-635-4000.
11-state service area. Consolidated provides
homeowner’s association for information.
advanced
and
broadband
High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes for
communication
solutions
The Katy Freeway also offers toll lanes for
to
business and residential customers across
Curbside recycling is offered in most neigh-
solo drivers, with prices varying at different
their fiber-rich network, which extends
borhoods, and drop-off recycling centers are
travel times.
across California, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas,
located throughout the area.
Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Pennsylvania and Texas. Founded more than a century ago, the
38
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
METRO offers curb-to-curb service for
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
mobility impaired and disabled passengers.
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of
org.
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Call 713-658-0180 or go to www.ridemetro.
CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS
THE POWER TO
WORK, PLAY AND BE AWESOME
Power up your business and home with Consolidated Communications Welcome to the power to be and do your best. The power to stay connected, share ideas or indulge in your favorite entertainment with no glitches, delays, or downtime. Whether you’re at work or at play, Consolidated Communications makes life better with access to CCI Fiber+, one of the fastest, most reliable networks in the nation. Get Consolidated Communications and get the power. POWER UP YOUR BUSINESS + Data & Internet + Voice + Cloud Services + Managed & Hosted + IT Services
POWER UP YOUR HOME + High-Speed Internet + Digital TV + Phone + Home Automation & Security
*Not all services available in all areas
Call 844.YOUR.CCI or visit consolidated.com
OWNING A VEHICLE New residents must obtain a Texas driver’s license within 30 days of establishing
• In Fort Bend County, call 281-342-3411 or visit www.fortbendcountytx.gov.
at district field offices in the county of residence. The cost is based on the model and year for cars and gross weight for trucks.
In Texas, you must buckle up. Children eight
To register a vehicle, present the automo-
years of age or younger or shorter than 4 feet
bile title and pay a new resident fee, a title
nine inches must be secured in an approved
fee, and the cost of new license plates. All
car seat. Texas also has a mandatory auto-
out-of-state vehicles are required to have
To obtain a Texas driver license, take proof
mobile liability insurance law, and if a driver
the following for registry in the state of
of registration, proof of insurance, a Social
is stopped for any reason, proof of liability
Texas: (1) proof of safety inspection, (2)
Security card or a current W-2 form, and
insurance coverage will be necessary. The
your out-of-state title, (3) payment of a new
a valid out-of-state license to the nearest
insurance required must provide: $30,000
resident fee, a title fee, the license plate’s
Department of Public Safety office. For
bodily injury, $60,000 per person per acci-
cost, and (4) proof of liability insurance.
license requirements including fees and loca-
dent and $25,000 property damage. A copy
Subsequent registration may be handled by
tions, visit www.txdps.state.tx.us.
of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is available
mail or in person. Motor vehicle registra-
at www.txdmv. gov.
tion renewals may be purchased at various
residency. Texas residents moving to a new address within the state must update their license as well.
Vehicles may be registered for license plates
locations.
at district field offices in the county of resi-
TWO STEPS, ONE STICKER
dence. The cost is based on the model and
Texas employs a “Two Steps, One Sticker”
PUBLIC SAFETY
year for cars and gross weight for trucks.
vehicle inspection and registration program.
Subsequent registration may be handled by
The blue-bordered registration sticker serves
FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS
mail or in person. Motor vehicle registra-
as a combined proof of registration and
For emergencies only: dial 911.
tion renewals may be purchased at various
inspection with one expiration date. Passing
For non-emergencies: dial 311.
locations.
vehicle inspection is a requirement to renew a registration.
• In Harris County, call 713-224-1919 or visit www.tax.co.harris.tx.us.
The Houston Police Department or the Harris County Sheriff have jurisdiction
Vehicles may be registered for license plates
in most areas of Harris County, while the
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
39
WEELLO R CC OAMT E I OTNO I N PA FO LM R MB A EA T IC OHN
Memorial Villages are served by their own autonomous police departments. The Fort Bend County Sheriff ’s Office has jurisdiction in those parts of the region that lie in Fort Bend. Active Crime Watch programs operate in numerous neighborhoods, and another very valuable program known as Crime Stoppers accepts anonymous tips and offers rewards for information leading to an arrest. • Houston Crime Stoppers 713-222-TIPS (8477) • Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers 281-342-TIPS (8477)
TEXAS GOVERNMENT VOTER REGISTRATION You must be 18 years old, a resident of the county in which you’re registering and a U.S. citizen to vote. Simply fill out a voter registration application which is available at a Voter Registrar’s Office, the Secretary of State’s Office, many post offices, libraries and high schools. Submit your application no later than 30 days prior to an election in order to vote in it. Contact the Texas Secretary of State at 1-800-252VOTE or visit www.votetexas.gov.
LEGAL RECORDS Legal
records
maintained
by
Harris
County include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings, taxes and more. Call the Harris County Court House at (713) 755-6411 or go to www.co.harris.tx.us.
PET LICENSING/ LEASH LAWS Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. They will need a booster after a year, and then every one-to-three years after that. Any veterinarian can administer vaccinations and provide license tags, as well as information on keeping your pet healthy in Texas.
40
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Clerk’s Office –Real Property......713-755-6439 Constable Ron Hickman.............281-376-3472 County Judge Ed Emmett...........713-755-4000 Driver’s License..........................713-224-1919 Library ......................................713-749-9000 Main Telephone..........................713-755-5000 Precinct 1 El Franco Lee, Commissioner.....713-755-6111 Precinct 3 Steve Radack, Commissioner 713-755-6306 Precinct 4 R. Jack Cagle, Commissioner......281-353-8100 Permits.......................................713-956-3000 Property Tax...............................713-368-2000 Vital Statistics.............................713-755-6382 Voter Registration.713-368-2200/713-224-1919
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
CONNECT CITY OF HOUSTON HELP Line............................................... 311 City Hall ....................................713-247-1000 900 Bagby, Houston 77002 Office of Mayor Annise Parker ...713-837-0311 Office of the City Controller Ronald Green.............................832-393-3460 Central Library...........................832-393-1313 METRO.....................................713-635-4000 Parks and Recreation..................713-845-1000 Property Information..................713-837-7719 Property Tax...............................713-368-2000 Water/Sewer/Garbage ...............713-837-9100 Vital Statistics.............................713-247-1686
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS District A –Brenda Stardig..........832-393-3010 District B - Jerry Davis ...............832-393-3009 District C - Ellen Cohen............. 832-393-3004 District D - Dwight Boykins .......832-393-3001 District E – Dave Martin.............832-393-3008 District F - Steve Le................... 832-393-3002 District G - Greg Travis ..............832-393-3007 District H - Karla Cisneros..........832-393-3003 District I - Robert Gallegos .........832-393-3011 District J - Mike Laster................832-393-3015 District K - Larry Green..............832-393-3016
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS AT-LARGE Position 1 - Mike Knox ..............832-393-3014 Position 2 - David W. Robinson ..832-393-3013 Position 3 - Michael Kubosh .......832-393-3005 Position 4 - Amanda Edwards ....832-393-3012 Position 5 - Jack Christie ...........832-393-3006
HARRIS COUNTY Auto Registration........................713-368-2000 County Clerk Stan Stanart ..........713-755-6411 Clerk’s Office – Marriage license.713-755-6436
TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVES Patricia Harless, District 126.......281-376-4114 Allen Fletcher, District 130..........281-373-5454 Debbie Riddle, District 150.........281-257-4222 Armando Walle, District 140.......713-694-8020 TEXAS STATE SENATORS Paul Bettencourt, District 7 ........713-464-0282 John Whitmire, District 15 .........713-864-8701 UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Kevin Brady................................936-441-5700 John Culberson ..........................713-682-8828 Al Green....................................713-383-9234 Sheila Jackson Lee ....................713-861-4070 Ted Poe..............281-446-0242 / 866-447-0242 Gene Green................................281-999-5879 UNITED STATES SENATORS John Cornyn...............................713-572-3337 Ted Cruz....................................713-718-3057
ART Cultural Arts Council of Houston & Harris County...........713-527-9330 Society for the Performing Arts...713-227-5134 Texas Commission on the Arts....512-463-5535
BUSINESS RESOURCES Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500 Small Business Administration....713-773-6500 State Comptroller of Public Accounts..........................713-868-9112 Texas Dept. of Economic Dev. ...512-936-0101 Texas Railroad Commission........713-869-5001 U.S. Customs..............................281-985-6700 U.S. Dept. of Commerce.............800-872-8723
FAMILY RESOURCES AARP – National Office.............800-424-3410 AARP – Southwest Region.........214-265-4060 Amigos de las Americas..............713-782-5290 Boy Scouts..................................713-659-8111 Child Care Council ....................713-266-6045 Children’s Protective Services......713-394-4000 Crisis Hotline..............................713-468-5463 Family Service Center.................713-861-4849 Food Bank..................................713-223-3700
Furniture Bank...........................713-842-9771 Girl Scouts..................................713-292-0300 Houston Area Women’s Center...713-528-6798 Interfaith Ministry......................713-522-3955 Junior Achievement....................713-682-4500 Licensed Day Care List ..............713-940-5200 Medicare....................................800-442-2620 Mental Health Association..........713-523-8963 Neighborhood Centers Inc. (Day Care Information)...............713-667-9400 Poison Control............................713-654-1701 Sheltering Arms Sr. Services........713-956-1888 United Way................................713-685-2300 Y.M.C.A.....................................713-659-8501 Y.W.C.A.....................................713-868-9922
CONSUMER RESOURCES Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500 Consumer Credit Counseling......713-923-2227 CSC Credit Service.....................800-753-1312 Consumer Fraud – Harris County................... 713-755-5836 Texas Consumer Protection – Attorney General........................713-223-5886 Texas Taxpayers & Research.......512-472-8838 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.....................800-638-2772 U.S. Consumer Information........800-688-9889
HOUSING INFORMATION Houston Apartment Assoc..........281-933-2224 Houston Assoc. of REALTORS..713-629-1900 Houston Relocation Professionals www.houstonrelopros.org
LEGAL RESOURCES Houston Bar Association.............713-759-1133 Houston Lawyer Referral Ser. .....713-237-9429 Texas Lawyer Referral Ser. .........800-252-9690
MISC. Harris County Dem. Party..........713-802-0085 Harris County Rep. Party............713-838-7900 Houston Chronicle .....................713-220-7171 Houston ISD..............................713-892-7700 Internal Revenue Service.............800-829-1040 League of Women Voters............713-784-2923 National Weather Service............281-337-5074 Social Security Administration....800-772-1213 Texas Environmental Quality Commission...................713-767-3500 Yellow Cab.................................713-236-1111
SPORTS AND TICKET INFORMATION Houston Astros Tickets/ Ticketmaster.... 800- ASTROS-2/713-627-9622 Houston Dynamos ....................713-276-7500 Houston Rockets.........................713-627-9622 Houston Texans..........................832-662-2000 NRG Stadium ............................713-289-2002
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
41
IW NET LEC RN OA MTEI OT N OAPL ARL EML O BC EA AC T I HO N
TRANSPORTATION
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.
42
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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.
Credit Card
BANKING
Rates typically include basic utilities (ask
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.
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
www.creditcards.com • 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 for details). • 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.
Buying a home • You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.
Realtor/Homes for Sale & Lease 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 (MLS) to find homes. • Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.
New Homes/Builders/ Communities 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.
of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year
TAXES
Private Schools
State of Texas
colleges and technical schools
• HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax & property tax only.
• Houstonprivateschools.com
Internal Revenue Service
There are a variety of independent and faith-
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/
• Privateschoolreview.com based private schools in the Houston area. • 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 International Baccalaureate program and
EDUCATION
might be better suited for children
Day Care:
planning to later attend university
childcarecenter.us • Some centers only care for children until they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5. Other schools offer Kindergarten. • Will need your child’s birth certificate, social security number, passport, application. • Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different times of the day. Ask for referrals.
outside the US.
Public Schools
• www.uscitizenship.info
PK-12 Texas Education Association: tea.texas.gov • Required for children 6-18 years of age in USA. • Child’s birth certificate, passport, social 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
IMMIGRATION VISA Most questions are answered on the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration web sites below. Contact your Consulate about your country’s requirements. General How Do I Guides: • www.uscis.gov
Employment Visa: • www.travel.state.gov • www.uscis.gov Green Card: www.uscis.gov/greencard Permanent Resident: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov
PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.state.tx.uss • 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.
Search www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
43
in this section
Photo courtesy of The British International School of Houston
STAAR public schools private schools higher education
4 44 4 W EWS ET S H T OH UOSUT SOT N ON N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– S– USM UM M EMRE/RF /AFLAL L 2L 021071 7
EDUCATION Home to some of the largest and most highly rated public school districts in Texas and the U.S., West Houston offers its residents an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities.
From Pre-K to Ph.Ds,
eight and end-of-course (EOC) assessments
Visit Texas Charter Schools Association at
are required for English 1, English 11,
www.txcharterschools.org.
algebra 1, biology and U.S. history, which course. www.tea.texas.gov.
PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS
SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS
KATY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
Students enrolling in Texas Public Schools
www.katyisd.org / 281-396-6000
count for 15% of the final grade in that
an A+ for Education. “What are the schools like?” This is one of the first questions a new Houstonian with a family will ask. And in West Houston, the answer is: “Pretty, darn good!”
can be tested for dyslexia and related disorders. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination and assures that
Top-notch education has long been a major ingredient in West Houston’s winning recipe for quality of life, and one of the key reasons the area’s population continues to increase. West Houston is home to some of the largest and most respected public school districts in Texas and the U.S., and offers its residents an impressive array of high-quality educa-
students who are disabled by a physical or mental impairment have educational opportunities equal to those provided to non-disabled students.
CHARTER SCHOOLS Charter schools operate under fewer rules, which allows for innovation, flexibility
tional opportunities.
and more personalized learning. They
But learning isn’t just for kids; there are
specialize in a specific area; some offer
excellent facilities for adult training and
students in higher grades the chance to
continuing education in the area or right
take high school and college courses simul-
nearby.
taneously. Charter schools must be fiscally
offer tuition-free open enrollment and may
Katy
ISD
is
a
fast-growing
district
currently teaching over 76,000 students, but welcoming about 2500 more each year. It serves parts of Fort Bend County and encompasses 181 square miles. Right now, there are 66 campuses, including 7 four-year high schools, but a soon-to-be completed elementary school will open at near-maximum capacity soon. KISD offers an outstanding instructional program with facilities, equipment and materials that are among the best in the state, and every KISD campus achieved the highest possible rating under the 2016 Texas state accountability system.
and academically as accountable as public
Each year, the district receives many acco-
STUDENT ASSESSMENT: STAAR
schools, adhere to the Texas Education
lades. Katy ISD schools earn some of the
The
of
Agency curriculum standards and give their
highest ratings in Texas from GreatSchools.
Academic Readiness Program measures a
students STAAR tests. The State of Texas
org and Children At Risk, two nonprofit
child’s academic growth, and college and
provides funds based on the average daily
groups that provide rankings based on
career readiness. Reading and mathematics
attendance of the students, just as it does for
test scores, the number of students taking
are tested each year in grades three to eight;
public schools; however, charter schools do
advanced classes, graduation rates and other
writing in grades four and seven; science in
not receive funds from local tax revenue and
metrics. Most recently, it was named the best
grades five and eight; social studies in grade
most do not receive state facilities funding.
school district in the Houston-Metro area by
State
of
Texas
Assessments
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
45
WDEUL C A E OTM IO E NT O P A L M B E A C H
in national rankings from Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report. Fort Bend ISD is committed to its mission to inspire and equip all students to pursue futures beyond what they can imagine.
LAMAR CONSOLIDATED INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT www.lcisd.org • 832-223-0000 The
Lamar
Consolidated
Independent
School District is another major player in the educational lineup for the West Houston and Katy areas. Covering more than 384 square miles, LCISD is one of the area’s Photo courtesy of Yorkshire Academy
largest districts geographically, with an
Niche, and was selected for District Admin-
The professionals at CFISD work to maxi-
enrollment that exceeds 30,000 students at
istration’s District of Distinction Award. For
mize every student’s potential through
39 campuses.
the second year in a row, Katy ISD commu-
rigorous and relevant learning experiences
nity surpassed one million volunteer hours.
preparing students to be 21st Century global leaders.
CYPRESS-FAIRBANKS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
Some of the newest and largest masterplanned communities in the area are located in LCISD, with new residents attracted by
FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
the district’s high passage rate on standard-
www.cfisd.net • 281-897-4000
www.fortbendisd.com • 281-634-1000
have bachelor’s degrees) and relatively high
Another fast-growing district is Cypress-Fair-
One of the most highly regarded school
banks ISD, with a student enrollment of
districts in Texas, the Fort Bend Indepen-
While welcoming growth, LCISD has kept
almost 115,000. It is the second-largest
dent School District offers an outstanding
its small-town values, focusing on putting
district in the Houston area, the third-
K-12 public education system and has more
students first. Campuses are designed with
largest in the state, and was awarded the
than 74,500 students attending 75 campuses.
smaller enrollments and sixth-grade-only
TEA’s highest possible rating of Met Stan-
These include 11 high schools, 14 middle
campuses focus on the needs of pre-ad-
dard for the fourth straight year. CFISD is
schools, 47 elementary schools and three
olescents to provide a smooth transition
a destination district for its college/career
unique secondary campuses addressing
to secondary schools. Lamar CISD is
preparation, extracurricular prowess and
specialized academic need and vocational
an HEB Excellence in Education Large
award-winning programs. With a diverse
interests. With more than 10,000 full and
District winner and home to National
student population (students speak more
part-time employees, FBISD is the largest
Principals of the Years, Gates Millennium
than 100 languages or dialects), it is proof of
employer in Fort Bend County.
Scholars, National Blue Ribbon Schools,
FBISD is also one of the state’s most
Athletic Champions. Recently, the district
making life better for the next generation:
culturally diverse districts, so the schools
was named a member of the comptroller’s
CFISD offers an unparalleled universal
work with students, their families and the
Honors Circle for financial and academic
public education experience for all children.
community to meet each student’s unique
excellence.
ized tests, its educated population (35% median income level ($87,555).
the visionary work of educators, businesses, organizations and taxpayers who believe in
needs. FBISD, its campuses and its students
Rodeo Art Grand Champions, and State
SPRING BRANCH INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
A fiscal leader in Texas, the district is one
are routinely recognized for exemplary
of only three to earn a five-star rating from
achievements by organizations such as
Texas Smart Schools for all six years of
The National Merit Scholars Program, the
the program. CFISD opened its 11th high
National Association of Music Merchants,
school in August and currently has 8 new
Children at Risk, and the United States Pres-
Some of West Houston’s most desirable and
construction projects and other renovation
idential Scholars Program. The District’s
established neighborhoods are served by the
plans underway.
high schools have also earned top rankings
Spring Branch Independent School District,
46
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
www.springbranchisd.com • 713-464-1511
which encompasses about 44 square miles
vanguard schools, charter schools, fine arts
of wooded suburbs and vibrant business
and language programs, early college high
districts located west of downtown Houston
schools and career academies, and other
along the Katy Freeway. With an enrollment
specialized programs. The district works to
of more than 35,000 students, SBISD has
ensure all students have access to a global
26 traditional elementary schools, 7 regular
education and are prepared to compete and
middle schools, 4 traditional high schools
be successful in a global society upon gradu-
and 4 special campuses.
ation. In fact, the district had 35 schools on The Washington Post’s 2017 list of Ameri-
SBISD also operates two innovative and
ca’s Most Challenging High Schools.
highly rated charter schools. Cornerstone Academy is a middle school, and Westchester Academy for International Studies is a middle and high school campus where students can pursue challenging Interna-
PRIVATE SCHOOLS ASCENSION EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
www.aeshouston.org • 713-783-0260
tional Baccalaureate program options in grades 7-12.
Ascension Episcopal School (AES) is a small private school located in the West-
SBISD follows a small neighborhood school
chase District of Houston, Texas. AES is
concept where attendance areas have been
a diverse community committed to guiding
established for each individual school.
each child toward academic excellence
Students go to the schools from kindergarten
while promoting Christian values and culti-
through high school in the attendance area
vating their God given talents. Each year
in which they live, and campus attendance
the school educates over 180 students, ages
zones rarely change.
3 months to 5th grade. AES offers a unique
About half of all SBISD campuses (18) are rated Recognized or Exemplary by the Texas Education Agency (TEA); SBISD is ranked an Acceptable School District by TEA.
HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT www.houstonisd.org • 713-556-6000 The Houston Independent School District is the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh largest in the United States. HISD is focused on providing safe, secure schools where students can excel and prepare for college and careers. The district has at least 28,000 full-time employees, educates more than 215,000 students in 287 schools spread out over 334
WWW.AESHOUSTON.ORG
blend of traditional education methods and
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT: 713-783-0260 2525 SEAGLER ROAD, HOUSTON, TX 77042
modern techniques. The classroom average
educating students three-years-old through
is 9 students per class with a low student to
8th grade. The campus is located on 2 ½
teacher ratio which assures individual attention while building leadership skills and confidence. AES seeks to train and develop each of its students in the intellectual, physical, social and emotional areas of their personality. The school has many after-school clubs such as science, art, fencing, dance, martial arts, and cooking. The sports program includes PreK-5th grade soccer, basketball, baseball and softball. AES provides a nurturing atmosphere in which understanding, tolerance, self-esteem and confidence are instilled.
acres in West Houston, conveniently near Houston’s Energy Corridor. Rolling admissions allow families who are relocating to apply any time during the year. Applying as early as possible is encouraged. Celebrating 41 years, The Branch School is known for its environmental education through the Outdoor Classroom nature studies program and the critical-thinking, problem-solving, peacemaking skills curriculum that promotes students “thinking outside the box.” Hands-on, project-oriented learning complements the “whole-child curriculum,” promoting the growth of the student in all areas of development. Personal
square miles. 96% of rated HISD schools
Before and After School Care is offered at
qualities of cooperation, leadership, respon-
met state student progress standards, and the
Ascension Episcopal School, located at
sibility, respect, confidence, persistence, and
district has reduced students’ drop-out rate
2525 Seagler Road, Houston, Texas 77042.
thoughtfulness are encouraged. Students
by 43% in the last 8 years. HISD stands out as a district of choice with
are expected to adhere to high standards of
THE BRANCH SCHOOL
conduct based on such qualities as unselfish-
www.thebranchschool.org / 713-465-0288
ness, forgiveness, justice, and compassion.
The Branch School is a private school
In preschool, developmentally appropriate
a robust portfolio of schools, including strong neighborhood campuses, magnet and
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
47
WDEUL C A E OTM IO E NT O P A L M B E A C H
activities take place in a warm, nurturing environment. The foundations of language arts, math, science, and social studies are laid through an integrated, developmental, hands-on approach.
provides a strong language arts program by developing student abilities to communicate effectively and persuasively, both orally and in writing. Foreign language, visual art, robotics, technology, theatre, and sports are also part of the middle school experience.
The elementary curriculum challenges children through a thematic approach, with interdisciplinary units providing meaningful learning experiences. Project-based learning complements textbook lessons – reinforcing comprehension, implementing multidisciplinary skills and fostering creative approaches to the communication and presentation of research. Students engage in periodic engineering projects throughout the year. The focus of middle school is science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM), preparing students with the 21st century skills of collaboration and problem-solving. Interactive technology promotes innovative learning opportunities. Students receive a rich experience of literary genres and critical reading skills that build reasoning and abstract thinking. The school
48
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
The Branch School is accredited by the Southern Association of
Colleges and
Schools (SACS), under the auspices of the international agency AdvancED™.
(MIT) and FIRST® LEGO® League. These collaborations have allowed the school to fully embed STEAM programming throughout all year groups. The campus spans 34-acres and features purpose driven technology developed in conjunction with Apple, customizable maker spaces, state-ofthe-art science labs, three athletic fields, an aquatic centre, two NCAA regulation size gymnasiums, and a 550-seat performing arts theater designed in collaboration with Juilliard. Every aspect of the school is centered around learners and learning. From the innovative design of a new 275,000-squarefoot building to their extensively trained teachers, BISH is committed to offering a world-class, personalized learning approach that enables each student to excel. Graduates achieve outstanding academic success through the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and gain acceptance to the finest universities and colleges in the US, UK and around the world. Students at BISH have access to incredible educational opportunities because it is part of Nord Anglia Education (NAE), the world’s premium schools organization. With 44 international schools around the world, including China, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and North America, NAE educates more than 38,000 students globally. Conveniently located off IH10 at N. Westgreen Boulevard and just minutes from the Grand Parkway, the British International School of Houston is accessible to families residing in all cities across the Greater Houston Area, including Katy, Houston, The Woodlands and Sugarland.
THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF HOUSTON (BISH)
FAITH WEST ACADEMY
www.bishouston.org • 713-290-9025
www.faithwest.org • 281-391-LOVE
The British International School of Houston
Since 1982 Katy’s oldest and largest private
(BISH) is the city’s premier independent
school, Faith West Academy, continues to
school committed to creating the highest
uphold core values of;
quality learning environment in the world.
• Reverence for God
The school ensures that students are
• Respect for ourselves, others, and authority
equipped with the skills they will need to be
• Responsibility for one’s action.
successful in the future workplace. Serving children from Pre-K to 12th Grade, learning and achievement at BISH is supported by collaborations with The Juilliard School, Massachusetts
Institute
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
of
Technology
“Our mission is Excellence Without Compromise, that enables our students to achieve God’s purpose in their lives,” says Principal Mary Strickland. “We take
pride in the academic achievements of our students, the skills of our teachers, and the involvement of our parents.” Located on 42 acres just east of the city of Katy, FWA provides a safe, Christian environment for preschool (starting at age 3) through 12th grade. As an extension of the preschool, FWA hosts a popular Mother’s Day Out Program that enrolls students as early as 15 months old. Faith West serves a growing number of international students seeking studies in America by providing them with on-campus boarding facilities. FWA has a current enrollment of over 600 students. The teaching staff is fully degreed in academic disciplines from elementary through high school. The teaching faculty in the secondary department has thirty-five members with an average student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. Pre-AP and Advanced Placement courses are offered in all major core subjects. The school operates on the principles of the Christian faith and incorporates these principles in its purposes, goals, procedures, and operations. The faculty members are caring, committed Christians, and the student body is interdenominational. The Academy is accredited by the International Christian Accrediting Association and by AdvanceED, organizations both approved and recognized by the state of Texas.
Pre-K th to 12 Grade
IN TRO DUCIN G the Future OF E DUCATION
Students and teachers at the British International School of Houston learn from the best. The school works alongside the world’s most prestigious educational institutions, supporting student learning and professional development through collaborations with The Juilliard School, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and FIRST® LEGO® League. The British International School of Houston is an educational leader committed to providing the highest quality learning environment in the world.
Schedule Your Personal Tour Today! bishouston.org
713.290.9025
stay connected
Faith West Academy • Preschool - 12th Grade • Advanced Technology Classrooms • Individualized Learning Programs • I-20/International Students • Boarding Programs • Extended Care Available • FFA and 4-H Programs • Top State Awards
From academics to athletics, missions to music, chapel to clubs, students are encouraged to express their uniqueness. A competitive athletic program is available for junior high and high school students, along with fine arts (such as band and theatre), agriculture sciences/FFA, and cheerleading. The high school students compete through Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS).
Academics Agriculture Athletics Fine Arts
5535 Ac ademy
FORT BEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
st Faith We
www.fortbendchristian.org • 281-263-9175 believe. achieve. lead. - Fort Bend Chris-
281.391.5683
tian Academy exists to glorify God through
2225 Porter Road Katy, TX 77493
.
Celebrating Thirty-five Years of Academic Excellence
www.faithwest.org
excellence in college-preparatory Christian
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
49
WDEUL C A E OTM IO E NT O P A L M B E A C H
In 2016, Grace Lower School was designated the first certified STEM program in the state of Texas by AdvancED. Lower School is also known for building strong school-initiated family and community relationships. Whether chaperoning a field trip, serving as a mystery reader for your child’s class or simply having lunch with your child, discover the magic that happens when you can partner with your child’s teacher and become an integral part of your child’s education. Photo courtesy of The Woodlands Preparatory School
Photo courtesy of Fort Bend Christian Academy
education. FBCA is a pre-kindergarten
GRACE SCHOOL
through grade 12 private, Christian school
www.graceschool.org • 713-782-4421
located on a 35-acre campus in the heart of Sugar Land/Houston, Texas. As an interdenominational school, FBCA welcomes a diverse population of students who attend
Grace School offers students more than a great education. “Grace is not an ordinary school. It is exceptional on more levels than
over 100 area churches.
we can count. Grace is a powerful atmo-
Students at FBCA receive an academically
Lynn Fitzpatrick, Grace School Teacher
sphere of compassion, support and love.”
challenging course of study with curriculum designed to provide a superior spiritual and
Located at 10219 Ella Lee Lane, Grace
intellectual environment. Honors, Advanced
School sits on a tranquil 13-acre campus
Placement and dual credit classes are offered
and educates students from 20 months to 8th
at the upper school level, and middle school
grade. Grace School’s mission is to provide a
students with accelerated educational devel-
rigorous educational program that prepares
opment may also participate in an honors
students for success at the next level. Their
curriculum. Spiritually, academically and
teachers demonstrate a deep understanding
professionally qualified, all teaching staff
of the developmental level of each child and
are certified educators, many possessing a
implore a vast variety of instructional strat-
master’s degree or higher.
egies tailored to best meet the individual needs of the students.
FBCA features small class sizes, uniforms, a hot lunch program, before and after
Founded in 1975 with just 15 students,
school programs, as well as enrichment
Grace now has an enrollment of just under
classes, clubs and strong community service
500. It’s that relentless pursuit of excellence
involvement. With competitive, State Cham-
that’s been graduating leaders for more than
pionship athletics and fine arts programs,
four decades.
100 percent of FBCA graduates are accepted to college, most to their first choice school,
Grace Primary School provides pre-school
and include National Merit Scholars, mili-
aged students opportunities to cultivate an
tary service appointees and recipients of
enduring love of learning. Children learn
numerous scholarship offers.
in a structured program that emphasizes creative expression and learning through
For more information about FBCA, contact
music and dramatic play. Parents can be
the Admissions Office at admissions@fort-
assured of a loving, secure, yet challenging
bendchristian.org or call 281-263-9105.
atmosphere.
50
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Grace Middle School provides students the guidance and support needed to navigate their adolescent years. Dedicated teachers embrace the diverse interests of students and explicitly prepare and guide students through the application process for high school. In addition to the four core academic areas, Grace is proud to offer: A unique Christian Studies experience allowing students to study the Bible, build a personal relationship with the Lord, and develop a servant’s heart; Two nationally certified outdoor learning facilities; A first -class athletics complex; A wide-array of after-school enrichment opportunities that allow students to explore and develop various interests; A digital library that gives students 24/7 access to thousands of e-books; State of the art technology in the classrooms, Makers’ Spaces and STEM Labs. Experience the Grace School difference for yourself. Schedule a private tour by calling 713-267-8705. Visit their website www. graceschool.org for application information.
HOUSTON CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL www.houstonchristian.org • 713-580-6020 Houston Christian High School is a four-year, interdenominational college preparatory high school that provides rigorous academic programs designed to prepare every student for collegiate study and beyond. Founded in 1997, HC is a place where students can discover their life-callings while excelling academically. Houston Christian is accredited by The Independent
Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS), and is a member of the Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC). One of the most distinct and intentional components of the HC experience is their leadership development program. Through classroom teaching, hands-on opportunities, and worldwide travel, students have the chance to explore ideas and roles beyond the classroom walls. HC is committed to celebrating diversity and strengthening the student’s community, heritage, vision of honor, and leadership. Another hallmark of HC is the caring teachers, mentors, and role models who engage students in service and leadership opportunities through student government, athletics, and fine arts. The combination of HC’s distinctive programs, spiritual life focus, and award-winning arts and athletics makes every student’s experience encompassing, yet also unique The majority of HC’s 500 students come from private schools throughout Houston, Spring Branch, Cypress-Fairbanks, and Katy communities, and there is also a strong public school representation. HC graduates attend an ever-expanding list of top colleges and universities in Texas and throughout the United States.
believe. achieve. lead.
Schedule a Campus Tour 281-263-9105 | fortbendchristian.org 281-263-9175 | 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Situated on a beautifully appointed 45-acre, state-of-the-art, collegiate-style campus, HC is conveniently located at the intersection of W. Sam Houston Pkwy N and Kempwood Drive. Demonstrating a continuing commitment to enhancing educational excellence and whole-child development, Houston Christian recently completed the 7,400 sq. ft. Brown Family Dance Studio as well as the new, two-story, 7,000 sq. ft. Harrell Family Strength & Conditioning Center. Houston Christian is a place where students can do more, be more, and succeed more. It is a place where students can play sports and participate in fine arts, where they can develop leadership skills and explore the world through life-changing travel. Most importantly, HC is a place where students will have the opportunity to grow spiritually
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
51
WDEUL C A E OTM IO E NT O P A L M B E A C H
in ways they could never imagine. For more information about the school and the admissions process, please call 713-580-6020 or visitwww.houstonchristian.org.
SCHOOL OF THE WOODS – MONTESSORI www.schoolofthewoods.org •713-686-8811 From age 2½ through college prep high school, School of the Woods offers a total continuum of interactive Montessori education in a unique learning environment, through curriculum personalized by Montessori-credentialed teachers according to each student’s needs, interests and abilities. Now in its sixth decade (founded in 1962), School of the Woods is Houston’s oldest continuously operating Montessori school and is non-profit, independent and non-sectarian. It is a full member school of the American Montessori Society and accredited by AdvancED (formerly SACS). Educational programs encompass: Woods Lower School for Early Childhood-Kindergarten, Elementary (Grades 1-3), and Upper Elementary (Grades 4-6); Woods Middle School (Grades 7-8); and Woods High School (Grades 9-12). Auxiliary programs include Dance, Gymnastics, Before/After School Care, Tutorials, Instrumental Music, Sports, Summer School and Summer Performance Arts. All children are eligible for enrollment regardless of race, color, creed, or national or ethnic origin. School of the Woods is at 1321 Wirt Road, Houston TX 77055. For more information, phone 713.686.8811, Fax 713.686.1936, or visit online at www.schoolofthewoods.org or info@schoolofthewoods.org.
ST. FRANCIS DE SALES CATHOLIC SCHOOL www.sfdsschool.org • 713-774-4447 First and foremost St. Francis de Sales School is a family of caring parents and teachers who are together raising responsible, faith-filled citizens for the community. Their mission is to educate each student in a spirit of faith and academic excellence
52
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
according to the Roman Catholic principles. As part of a caring, disciplined community, the school, in partnership with parents, nurtures and challenges each student to develop to his or her fullest potential. Along with the 2015 Soccer Archdiocesan Championship they hold the 2nd and 3rd place awards in the statewide Mobile Automated Technology Education competition (underwater robotics) held at N.A.S.A.’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab. They encourage PK-8th graders to participate in sports programs, clubs, academic/fine arts competitions, service projects and faith activities. By “Praying, Learning and Living Together” they focus on the development of each student intellectually, physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. They nurture children from diverse backgrounds as a reflection of the world in which they live. St. Francis de Sales is accredited by the TCCED, and is a member of NCEA, NCTM, NCTSS, GHARC and HAIS. St. Francis de Sales School is located at 8100 Roos, Houston, TX 77036 within blocks of St. Agnes Academy, Strake Jesuit College Preparatory and Southwest Memorial Hospital.
ST. FRANCIS EPISCOPAL SCHOOL www.StFrancisHouston.org 713-458-6175
Imaginative, critical thinkers and people for others. At St. Francis, they believe their mission matters. So from the Reggio-inspired approach in Primary School to the inquiry-based environment of Lower School to the hotbed of 21st century learning that is the St. Francis Middle School, they engage and inspire students to think critically, explore deeply, and take the academic and artistic leaps that allow them to mature in independence and innovation. At the core of it all is a student-centric, research-based curriculum. Passionate, award-winning educators, and leading-edge technology at every turn. Because when it comes to helping the Wolves advance from their earliest academic ventures through the
Limitless Potential. Unlimited Possibilities. Dedicated to fostering a dynamic and engaging environment, Houston Christian provides students with opportunities to stretch their intellectual abilities, develop leadership skills and explore a wide range of interests from athletics to fine arts. A highly accredited, private, nondenominational college preparatory school, Houston Christian features include: An Exceptional Faculty Vibrant Campus Culture Merit Scholarships Transportation Program Exciting Travel Programs
Beautiful 45 Acre, Collegiate-Style Campus Low Student-to-Faculty Ratios Award-Winning Athletic and Fine Arts Programs Distinctive Leadership and Scholars Programs Dynamic College Counseling Program
Serving students throughout the Houston area, Houston Christian is located near the intersection of I-10 and Beltway 8. We invite you to call us today to schedule a tour (713-580-6020) or visit us online at www.HoustonChristian.org 2700 W Sam Houston Parkway N Houston, TX 77043 www.HoustonChristian.org exponential growth in literacy, quantitative reasoning, creative thinking, and social/ emotional development of their elementary and secondary years, they not only focus on the whole child—but also the whole environment. This might mean a field trip to one of the tallest buildings in town for the Primary I class fascinated by skyscrapers, a third grader’s grin as her design takes shape on the popular 3-D printer, or the compassion of eighth graders who donate $45,000
in national Lead2Feed Challenge winnings to local nonprofits. At St. Francis, success equals so much more than a grade on paper. On their two campuses, more than 900 students live, grow, and give together through beloved annual service projects, 40-plus teams in 13 sports, rousing theatre and choir productions, three orchestras,
unforgettable
living-history
events, and a dizzying array of school-day
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
53
WDEUL C A E OTM IO E NT O P A L M B E A C H
and after-school enrichment programs— all while worshipping side by side during regular chapel and Eucharist services.
8825 Kempwood Drive | Houston, TX 77080 T: 713-468-7946 | www.stjeromecs.org sjcs@stjeromecs.org At St. Jerome Catholic School we take pride in being more than just a school. Here, we are family. We welcome students of all backgrounds and faiths to experience the comprehensive education of mind, heart and spirit from grades Pre-K to 8th.
Now, the community is set to turn another page as they realize the long-held dream of a St. Francis high school. Slated to open to it’s founding freshman class in 2018, the St. Francis Upper School will reimagine the traditional high school experience, emphasizing thematic learning over staid survey courses and 21st century skills over the rote memorization of decades past.
ST. JEROME CATHOLIC SCHOOL www.stjeromecs.org • 713-468-7946
Our school is accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference Education Department, an accrediting agency approved by the Texas Education Association. We are also a member of the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) and a school within the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
St. Jerome Catholic School offers a rigorous, accredited, academic program in an environment which is learner focused. Highly qualified, caring teachers and staff help the children realize their God-given gifts. Students have the opportunity to participate in City-wide competitions (Science Fair, Spelling Bee). Rounding out the program at St. Jerome are a variety of extracurricular activities including sports (soccer, volleyball, basketball, track), Student Council, drama, scouts, prep bowl, altar servers, lectors, cantors, choir, visual arts, yearbook, and instrumental class. Students attend Mass every week.
The Little School That’s Making a Big Impact. 300 STUDENTS – 18 MONTHS TO 5TH GRADE
St. Jerome School has been educating students in a Christ-centered environment for over 50 years. You are invited to visit St. Jerome and experience the vibrant, diverse community that is Family. St. Jerome is conveniently located in Spring Branch at 8825 Kempwood Dr. between Hollister and Blalock. The school is easily accessible from I-10, US 290, and Beltway 8. Come Pray, Learn, and Grow!
Kids from across Houston and around the world come to Yorkshire Academy to excel, explore, collaborate, question and solve. Ours is a campus that’s alive with wonder, joy, kindness, confidence and the kind of progressive learning that ignites the potential in our students to accomplish anything. Even change the world. To find out more and arrange a tour, visit yorkshireacademy.com. 14120 Memorial Drive | Houston, Texas 77079 | 281.531.6088
54
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
ST. JOHN XXIII COLLEGE PREPARATORY www.sj23lions.org • 281- 693-1000 St. John XXIII College Preparatory is a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory school, serving grades 9-12 from
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Houston’s booming west side. The faculty and staff of the St. John XXIII community work tirelessly to educate and develop all students. Located just one mile north of I-10 on the Grand Parkway, St. John XXIII provides a campus environment that promotes the development of each individual in mind, heart, body, and imagination. Students at St. John XXIII are challenged to pursue academic excellence. The school provides a rigorous college preparatory curriculum that is rooted in Catholic values, and each student is encouraged to foster lifelong learning habits that will prepare them for their future. The comprehensive athletic, fine arts, and extracurricular programs contribute to the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional growth of every individual. A dynamic campus ministry department forms the hearts and minds of the students through liturgy and service. The St. John XXIII House System, the first of its kind at any Catholic high school in Texas, promotes school spirit, fellowship, spirituality, and academic achievement, as well as provides a foundation for the students to follow the four pillars of the school: excellence, obedience, peace, and renewal. Members of the St. John XXIII community are encouraged to pursue their individual gifts and talents to the best of their ability. The mission of St. John XXIII College Preparatory is Parare Mente et Corde, to prepare the minds and hearts of its students to serve God and others.
YORKSHIRE ACADEMY www.yorkshireacademy.com 281-531-6088 Yorkshire Academy, a private school located in the Memorial area, was established in 1984 with its primary goal being to create an environment in which children can develop to their fullest potential at their own individual rate. Students range in age from 18 months to Grade 5. Yorkshire strives to develop the whole person, guiding each
child with experiences to enhance his or her own self image, whether it be excelling within dynamic classroom academics, singing and dancing in amazing musical productions, earning a 1st place academic competition ribbon in math, or mastering the latest technology in the computer lab. Yorkshire Academy offers a unique opportunity for students to benefit from an outstanding staff who truly cares about each child. A parent once said, “You know, you guys should call Yorkshire Academy, ‘The Self-Esteem School.’” The school is an impressive mix of strong academics, unbelievable music, art, computer, Spanish, all being taught in a loving, supportive atmosphere. Learning
foreign
languages
is
very
important to many families, therefore Yorkshire instituted its MILK (Morning Intensive
Join us for a tour and experience Houston’s premier, faith-based education. Enrolling Pre-Primary through grade 9. Visit StFrancisHouston.org/tours to register today!
Language Klass) program, for both Chinese and Spanish.
Students enrolled in this
program have early morning classes several
335 Piney Point Road • Houston, Texas 77024 • 713.458.6175 • StFrancisHouston.org
times per week.
Parare Mente et Corde
◆
To Prepare in Mind and Heart
Come See Why Our Small School Makes a Big Difference! • • • • • •
Unique House System - Promotes School Spirit, Fellowship, & Academic Achievement College Preparatory Curriculum - Educates with Rotating College Block Schedule & AP Courses Christian-Oriented - Provides strong Catholic Identity in a moral, friendly, and safe environment Learning Center Program International Program - Includes students from Around the World are Part of our Student Body Perfect Size - Opportunities to Participate in a Variety of Activities without Having to Choose
1800 West Grand Parkway N., Katy, Tx 77449
Voted Readers’ Choice Katy’s Best Private School
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
55
WDEUL C A E OTM IO E NT O P A L M B E A C H
and valuable resources.
To help you find the
RIGHT FIT school in Houston.
Ibrahim Firat, Educational Consultant, Author of The Firat Guide Yorkshire’s extensive afterschool enrichment program offers classes as diverse as engineering, yoga, chess, piano, tae kwon do and dozens more. Its summer program consists of academics, over 50 enrichment camps, theme-based camps for little ones, and full time care. These programs are open to the community, and attract families from all over the Houston area. Yorkshire Academy is accredited by the T.A.A.P.S. and Texas Association of Gifted and Talented. Visit www.yorkshireacademy.com for more information or call 281.531.6088 to schedule a personal tour.
FIRAT EDUCATIONAL SERVICES www.firateducation.com Why consider an Independent Educational Consultant? The right school can provide countless academic and extracurricular opportunities to maximize a child’s potential and develop new interests, skills, and life-long friendships. Schools differ in setting, size, philosophy, and structure. Teaching and discipline styles, public or
56
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
School Placement & Standardized Test Preparation www.firateducation.com private, religious affiliation, and the role of arts and athletics are additional elements that define each. What other factors should be considered when choosing a school? How does a family know if their child will feel comfortable? Will the school adequately meet the child’s unique needs? Who will be the child’s friends and role models? Independent educational consultants are trained professionals who possess extensive knowledge of educational options. Educational consultants meet with families to understand their children’s unique skills and needs to develop personal educational plans. To find the right fit school for a child, they learn as much as possible about the student and his or her family. They help clarify educational needs, identify strengths and weaknesses, and consider interests and dislikes. They help facilitate the process of selecting the school in which a child can be happy and successful. By guiding families through the oftentimes overwhelming admissions and/or registration process and focusing on the right match, educational consultants can also save you time, energy,
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
All schools strive to promote the positive aspects of their academic and social environments, but how does one uncover the school’s true profile to know if it’s the right fit? By spending the time it takes to get to know each individual child, educational consultants will thoroughly research which environments meet the family’s needs, while formulating a customized list of appropriate options. Therefore, often this process starts as early as 7th or 8th grade. The educational consultant will then review specifics about each school, including admission criteria, student-teacher ratio, community expectations, school culture, academic and extra-curricular activities, diversity, and various other characteristics of the student body and school community which will aid in the decision making process. Educational consultants have firsthand knowledge of schools by touring hundreds of campuses, spending time meeting with admissions officers and other key staff, visiting classes and meeting current students. An educational consultants’ expertise, combined with a caring approach to understanding the needs of children, helps families identify a school that is academically, socially, and financially appropriate for success: the right fit! A list of professional members of the Independent Educational Consultants Association in Houston can be found at www. iecaonline.com
HIGHER EDUCATION A variety of well-regarded institutions offer higher education in West Houston, and residents also have easy access to top-rated colleges and universities throughout the Houston region. The University of Houston System at Cinco Ranch offers courses leading to more than 30 bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and UH has announced plans to issue $60 million in bonds to fund a new, expanded campus in Katy that will focus on the energy industry while also offering a broad
Earn a degree in Katy and get ahead Make your mark in your life and career by finishing your bachelor’s degree as a transfer student or earning your master’s degree right here in Katy. You can go to classes at UHV Katy, 2002 W. Grand Parkway N., Building 2, or take online classes from anywhere. Learn more about UHV’s quality degree programs offered at an affordable price. Contact us now at (281) 396-3700 or recruitment@uhv.edu.
| www.uhv.edu/katy | (281) 396-3700 need to succeed.
range of programs. West Houston is also
constant, how we get there looks quite a
served by the Houston Community College
bit different these days. We realize many
System and Lone Star College, two of the
students have work and family obligations.
“I’ve grown personally and professionally
largest and most comprehensive community
Commuting to class is challenging. That’s
because of the experiences and opportu-
colleges in the nation.
why we offer evening face-to-face classes in
nities I received throughout my academic
Katy along with innovative online courses.”
journey at UHV,” said Liza Lybolt, an
THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON-VICTORIA
alumna from Conroe who earned her BachUHV Katy, 2002 W. Grand Parkway N., is
elor of Business Administration and Master
conveniently located off Grand Parkway
of Business Administration from UHV. “I’m
and Franz Road, just north of Interstate 10.
better prepared for the future thanks to the
West Houston students building careers
The third floor features classrooms, faculty
knowledge and abilities honed through the
at UHV Katy. The University of Hous-
offices, study areas and a Multi-Purpose
program.”
ton-Victoria at Katy offers a wide selection
Room to serve the Katy community with
of academic programs and the flexibility
educational events.
www.uhv.edu/katy • 281-396-3700
UHV has agreements with many Houston area community colleges, allowing for a
craved by students finishing their bachelor’s For students looking for a more traditional
seamless transfer to UHV Katy. Students
college experience, UHV’s main campus
can choose to pursue degrees in a variety
Classes are affordable, and students don’t
in Victoria has freshman and sophomore
of fields through UHV’s three academic
have to leave West Houston – or even their
classes, residence halls and a wide assort-
schools: Arts & Sciences, Business Admin-
own home.It’s no wonder readers of the
ment of student activities. Students can
istration, and Education, Health Professions
Katy Times voted UHV as the Best College
earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in
& Human Development.
in Katy in 2016 and 2017.
Victoria.
“The University of Houston-Victoria helped
Regardless of where or how you attend
ferring students have a choice of many
students reach their career goals for more
UHV, the qualified faculty and small
undergraduate majors, including biology,
than 40 years,” UHV President Vic Morgan
class sizes ensure that students receive the
digital gaming and simulation, criminal
said. “While that objective has stayed
personal attention and encouragement they
justice and psychology. Master’s programs
degree or pursuing graduate school.
In the School of Arts & Sciences, trans-
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
57
WDEUL C A E OTM IO E NT O P A L M B E A C H
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.
New home. New opportunities. New Horizons is the leading IT training company, providing training in everything from desktop applications, technical and professional development. Whether you want to brush up your skills or transition to a new career, New Horizons will set you on the right course.
New Horizons of Houston | www.nhhouston.com | 713.552.1414 are available in several growing fields, such as computer science, school psychology or biomedical sciences.
are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs, the gold accrediting standard for training future counselors.
The School of Business Administration offers Bachelor and Master of Business Administration programs with concentrations that include accounting, finance, health care administration, management and marketing. Students can earn an MBA for less than $23,000. Not surprisingly, it is the third largest MBA program in Houston for 2016-2017 according to the Houston Business Journal. UHV’s business programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Less than 5 percent of business schools worldwide achieve this distinction. Students studying in the School of Education, Health Professions & Human Development can pursue degrees in a number of areas, including teaching, administration and supervision, and curriculum and instruction. UHV also offers master’s degrees in school counseling and clinical mental health counseling. Both programs
58
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
Learn more about the available degree programs and certifications offered at UHV Katy by contacting 281-396-3700 or katycampus@uhv.edu. More information about UHV’s degrees can be found at www.uhv. edu/majors-degrees.
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
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training and certifications for top technology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being an authorized partner ensures that the students have the highest quality training materials and train on the latest products and technologies available. Courses provided fall into categories like desktop applications, technical training and professional development. Flexible Training Approach Based on Learner Needs - They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy specific needs. Learning methods include Online ANYTIME, on-site training, private classes and Online LIVE. Online Live removes geographical boundaries from learning by bringing students and instructors together synchronously in a virtual real-time classroom environment. This program provides students all of the benefits of being in a dynamic interactive classroom – enabling students to study from work, home or a New Horizons center. New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based lab solutions as well, allowing students to access their labs anytime and anywhere. The state-of-the-art, fully-configured live lab environment provides students hands-on access to the systems and applications taught in the classrooms, empowering them to learn on their own schedules. A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for training quality and customer satisfaction as reported by an independent third-party learning and quality assurance company, Knowledge Advisors. Plus, research shows that New Horizons training yields a 4:1 benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager surveys regarding the improved performance and productivity of their employees immediately following New Horizons training.
Places of
WORSHIP There are a lot of decisions to make when establishing your new life in a new city, and one of the most important might be where to worship. Your new neighbors might be a great source of information: “Have y’all found a church yet?” they’ll say and they will be happy to help with directions and introductions. And while it’s possible to find God (or Allah or Budda) in other places, church offers a community of like-minded and similar-spirited people to build relationships with. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship can also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, even groups with common interests to join. If you’re looking to settle in and get to know new friends, a congregation might be the perfect group in which to find them. Luckily in Houston, every spiritual need can be met. It is the most diverse city in the country and home to a variety of religious traditions – a reflection of the rich, international cultural mosaic that makes up the city. It is also home to what is by far the biggest church congregation in America – Lakewood Church, a nondenominational charismatic Christian megachurch, which has an average weekly attendance of more than 52,000. But there are many options of all sizes and styles, and West Houston offers a variety of churches ranging from Non-Denominational to Methodist to Baptist. Not to be overlooked, there are also several mosques and synagogues. All places of worship should allow a haven for people to come together and connect over their common beliefs. If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should be able to easily find your spiritual home here.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
59
WLEAL C P C EOSMOE F T W O OP R ASL H MI PB E A C H
INTERDENOMINATIONAL
ASSEMBLIES OF GOD Braeswood Assembly of God Family Life
713-777-1651 281-392-0637
braeswoodchurch.org flag.church
New Life Church
713-932-1479
newlifechurch.net
ISLAM BAPTIST Bear Creek Baptist Clay Road Baptist Houston First Baptist Second Baptist Church Second Baptist Church – West Tallowood Baptist Westbury Baptist Church
281-859-9900 713-462-3401 713-681-8000 713-465-3408 713-465-3408 713-468-8241 713-723-6428
bearcreek.church gocrbc.org houstonsfirst.org second.org second.org/west tallowood.org wbchouston.org
281-575-0910 713-467-0997
vnbc.org westhoustonzen.org
713-771-3596 713-526-3276 713-465-2682 713-465-3414 713-621-4370 713-729-0221 281-497-1500
stalbertoftrapani.org saintanne.org stakim.org saintcecilia.org stmichaelchurch.net stmhouston.org stjohnvianney.org
CATHOLIC St. Albert of Trapani St. Anne Catholic Community St. Andrew Kim Korean St. Cecilia Catholic Church St. Michael Catholic Church St. Thomas More Catholic St. John Vianney Church
713-643-9586 masjidwdmohammed.com 713-465-2020 elfarouq.org
JEWISH Congregation Beth Israel Congregation Beth Rambam Temple Sinai
713-771-6221 713-723-3030 281-496-5950
beth-israel.org bethrambam.org temple-sinai.org
281-498-5047 281-497-0250 713-784-6620 713-782-6079 713-468-9565 713-468-2623
allsaintslutheranco.org christ-memorial.org christtheservant.net mlchouston.org standrew-lcms.org stmarkhouston.org
281-497-1146 281-463-2330 713-465-3467 713-652-2999 713-468-8356 281-492-8031 713-622-5710 713-782-7750
ashfordumc.org bearcreekumc.org chapelwood.org fmhouston.com mdumc.org stpkaty.org stlukesmethodist.org wumc.com
LUTHERAN
BUDDHIST Vietnamese Buddhist Center West Houston Zen Center
Houston Masjid of Al-Islam Masjid El Faroug Islamic Center
CHRISTIAN (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST) Current Christian Church 281-395-4722 First Christian-Katy 281-492-2693 Memorial Drive Christian Church 713-789-0060
currentchristian.org fcckaty.com mdccdoc.org
All Saints Lutheran Christ Memorial Lutheran Christ the Servant Lutheran Memorial Lutheran Church St. Andrew Lutheran St. Mark Lutheran
METHODIST Ashford Methodist Church Bear Creek United Methodist Chapelwood Methodist Church First Methodist Houston Memorial Drive United Methodist St. Peters Methodist Church St. Luke’s Methodist Church Westminster United Methodist
NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN SCIENCE Seventh Church of Christ, Scientist 713-532-7323
christianscienceheals.com
CHURCH OF CHRIST Alston Road Church of Christ Fry Road Church of Christ Westbury Church of Christ West Houston Church of Christ
832-886-4594 281-578-1897 713-729-7880 281-856-0001
alstonroadchurch.org fryroad.org westburycoc.com westhoustonchurch.org
713-781-1330 281-493-3161 713-468-5138 713-465-6015 713-782-1270 713-621-3040 713-521-0891
aeshouston.org emmanuel-houston.org holyspirithouston.org stchrishouston.org sfch.org stmartinsepiscopal.org ststephenshouston.org
EPISCOPAL Ascension Episcopal Church Emmanuel on Memorial Holy Spirit Episcopal Church. St. Christophers Episcopal Church St. Francis Episcopal Church St. Martin’s Episcopal Church St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church
HINDU Chinmaya Mission
60
281-568-9520 cmw.chinmayamission.com
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Bridge Point Bible Church 832-448-1330 Current Christian Church 281-395-4722 Hope City Church Katy Community Fellowship 281-391-0099 Lakewood Church 713-635-4154 Powerhouse Christian Church 281-391-0095
bridgepointbible.org currentchristian.org yourhopecity.com katyfellowship.com lakewoodchurch.com powerhousechurch.tv
ORTHODOX St. Joseph’s Orthodox Church
713-973-7001
saintjosephorthodox.org
281-870-0349 713-781-7615 281-646-7500 713-526-1188 713-782-1710 713-467-2234 713-622-4807 281-497-4846
covenantpca.org gpch.org grandlakespc.org cepc.org mdpc.org pinespc.org saintphilip.net stthomaspc.org
PRESBYTERIAN Covenant Presbyterian Church Grace Presbyterian Church Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church Christ Evangelical Presbyterian Memorial Drive Presbyterian Pines Presbyterian Church St. Philip Presbyterian Church St. Thomas Presbyterian Church
BRIDGEPOINT BIBLE CHURCH www.bridgepointbible.org • 832-448-1330 It is their desire to love each person who walks through the doors just as Christ loves us. The Welcome Team is second to none and they make entering those doors a really easy and comfortable experience – beginning with a warm and friendly welcome in the parking lot, to an equally warm and friendly welcome at the front doors… and then on to the Welcome Center to get all the information you need to find your way around and get connected. At BridgePoint the vision is to encourage every person they meet to take their next step with Christ. This means that they don’t want to just lead people, they want to come along side them. It also means they believe that whether you are just seeking Christ for the
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
WEEKLY GATHERINGS SUNDAY AM Services and groups for all ages & stages
9:30 & 11:00 AM
THROUGHOUT THE WEEK We have events, gatherings and classes throughout the week. Visit our website or call us for all the details.
WEDNESDAY EVENINGS
Food & Fellowship: 6:00-7:00 pm Meeting: 7:00-9:00 pm Providing a safe, confidential environment to break free from the hurts, habits and hang-ups that hinder us from experiencing the True Joy found in Christ.
A safe, nurturing and focused learning environment for
INFANTS-4 YRS
Visit our website for more information: bridgepointbible.org/BELA
first time or have been a believer for many years, Christ has a next step for you and they want to help you take that next step. Visiting a new church can be intimidating: When are the services?
What are the
services like? What should I wear? They understand the many questions that can come up as you consider visiting a new church. Below are some answers to some of the more frequently asked questions. When are the services? Services are on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am and 11:00 am. They take place in the BridgePoint Worship Center, located just to your right if you enter through the south doors and directly in front of you if you enter through the west doors. What should I wear? They want you to feel comfortable. After all, they are thrilled that you’re joining them and want you to be more focused on the service than what you’re wearing. It’s not uncommon to see people wearing jeans, sandals, and even shorts. Others prefer to still put on their
Now open Their power, legendar y. Their movements, majestic. Their presence, simply awesome. And now you can experience ever ything that makes them so wonderful. Up close and incredible.
“Sunday best,” and that’s fine too! They think you’ll fit in no matter how you dress and look forward to seeing you!
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
61
HEALTHCARE The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in West Houston have grown over the years to meet the healthcare needs of the communities they serve. Patients now have the opportunity to heal closer to home, work and family.
62
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
WE HAVE
HOUSTON COVERED The breadth and depth of our care is matched only by our reach. 17 State-of-the-Art Hospitals • Affiliated Primary Care and Specialist Physicians Women’s Memorial Hermann • Children’s Memorial Hermann • Mischer Neuroscience Institute TIRR Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation and Research Hospital*• IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institutes Red Duke Trauma Institute • Urgent Care • Convenient Care Centers • Cancer Centers • Joint Centers Heart & Vascular Institutes • 80+ Outpatient Centers • PaRC Prevention and Recovery Center For a physician referral, call 713.272.1673 or visit us at memorialhermann.org
*TIRR is a registered trademark of TIRR Foundation.
WEEAL C H L TO HM CA E RT EO P A L M B E A C H
Photo courtesy of Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center
The city of Houston is world-famous for
The Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
medical care. At the forefront of advancing
is the area’s only dedicated pediatric
life sciences, Texas Medical Center is one of
hospital, and the only dedicated pediatric
the world’s most respected medical centers.
emergency service in Greater West Houston.
Each year, TMC receives 10 million patient
Recently, TCH West was one of just 13
visits. It has 106,000 employees, 50,000 life
hospitals out of more than 1,300 nationwide
science students and thousands of volun-
to be selected as a Top Children’s Hospital
teers. It is home to 21 renowned hospitals,
by The Leapfrog Group, which compares
14 support organizations, and a myriad of
hospitals across the nation based on safety,
academic and research institutions, and
quality and efficiency.
specialty schools. As the largest medical
immunizations, and standard screening tests. Some clinics are located within stores or shopping centers and have extended hours to accommodate their patients. Recent additions to personal health care options include specialty clinics that treat conditions such as smoking cessation and weight loss. Wellness Centers affiliated with hospitals or a physician’s practice frequently offer weight reduction, health management programs and medical spa treatments.
complex in the world with 9200 beds, it is
Memorial Hermann Katy is known for
busy; a baby is born here every 20 minutes
providing
and a surgical procedure begins every three.
patient-centered care and leading edge
MEMORIAL HERMANN
technology close to home. It is nationally
www.memorialhermann.org 713-272-1673
excellent
clinical
expertise,
The dedicated scholars collaborating at the
recognized for patient safety and quality
Texas Medical Center have great expertise
and features a medical staff with disciplines
in cardiovascular disease, cancer, children’s
spanning 38 specialties.
medical problems, neuroscience, strokes, rehabilitations and other areas. More heart
Houston’s world-renowned M.D. Anderson
surgeries are performed here than anywhere
Cancer Center is now in Katy. Taking
else in the world. www.texasmedicalcenter.
advantage of more than 70 years’ experi-
org.
ence in dealing with cancer, the center offers cancer care and treatment in a community
Advancing Health in Houston - Memorial Hermann has created Houston’s largest, full-service, integrated health system focused on advancing the health of the community. For the system’s 5,500 affiliated physicians and 25,000 employees, it means exercising uncompromising commitment to deliver
setting, keeping patients close to home.
the best health care possible by harnessing
Houston. Houston Methodist West Hospital
In addition to the most modern and compre-
methods. For patients, it means having the
is a full-service, acute care hospital that
hensive healthcare facilities in the Greater
best tools to prevent health problems as well
brings the Houston Methodist tradition
Houston region, residents of West Houston
as the best chance to regain their health
of excellence and leading medicine to
and Katy can find family doctors and
following an illness or injury. It’s no wonder
West Houston, Katy and the surrounding
specialists, as well as neighborhood emer-
Memorial Hermann is the only Houston
communities. With almost 200 beds and
gency clinics that are equipped to treat most
health system to receive both the National
some of the most innovative minds in South
illnesses, minor injuries and other health-re-
Quality Forum’s National Quality Health-
Texas, it is tending to virtually every health
lated needs. With little or no waiting, walk-in
care Award in 2009 and the 2012 John M.
care need.
patients can get a routine physical, school
Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and
The world-class healthcare of the Texas Medical Center is now available in West
64
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
leading-edge technology and using the safest
Quality from The Joint Commission and the
largest and busiest air ambulance service
more than 1,000 affiliated physicians repre-
National Quality Forum, the nation’s guard-
in the United States; the Prevention and
senting more than 70 specialties, each day
ians of health and safety.
Recovery Center for chemical dependency
Memorial City explores new, innovative
treatment; and a comprehensive array of
treatments that are changing health care and
One of the largest not-for-profit health
home health services, rehabilitation centers,
improving quality of life for patients. Their
systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann
outpatient imaging and laboratory services.
426-bed facility includes a 33-story tower,
is an integrated system that serves South-
The system’s ambulatory care network also
home to Women’s Memorial Hermann,
east Texas and the Greater Houston
includes Memorial Hermann Urgent Care
Children’s Memorial Hermann and a new
community with 17 hospitals, including
and Memorial Hermann Convenient Care
Center for Advanced Orthopedics. Their
four in the Texas Medical Center, a level I
Centers. Everyday Well.com connects you
comprehensive Cancer Center, Digestive
trauma center, a hospital for children, one
to Memorial Hermann’s comprehensive
Health Center and IRONMAN Sports
of the top two rehabilitation hospitals in
network of care, with convenient physical
Medicine Institute offer highly specialized
the United States, an orthopedic and spine
locations, virtual care and easy-to-use online
care close to home.
hospital along with 10 suburban hospitals
tools for managing your health.
and two surgery centers. Affiliated with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth,
MEMORIAL HERMANN KATY HOSPITAL
Vascular Institute locations; the Memorial
MEMORIAL HERMANN MEMORIAL CITY MEDICAL CENTER
Hermann Mischer Neuroscience Institute at
Building on a 40-year legacy of caring for
208-bed facility and a medical staff with
the Texas Medical Center; the IRONMAN
the residents of Greater and west Houston,
disciplines spanning 38 specialties. In
Sports Medicine Institute at four locations;
Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical
January 2016, the new $85 million east
eight Memorial Hermann Joint Centers
Center is an advanced, award-winning
patient tower and second medical plaza
offering advanced treatment options for
academic medical center, offering high-
opened. As our community has grown,
joint pain; Women’s Memorial Hermann;
level care typically found only in the Texas
we’ve grown, expanded and improved
Memorial Hermann Life Flight
Medical Center. With a medical staff of
to better serve your healthcare needs.
the system also operates three Heart &
®
– the
Serving the Katy area for 35 years, Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital features a
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
65
WEEAL C H L TO HM CA E RT EO P A L M B E A C H
Enhancing our campus with a new patient tower with more than 60 new patient rooms including an intermediate care and intensive care units as well as a new level III neonatal ICU, cardiac telemetry unit, ambulatory services, cardiac catherization lab, antepartum rooms and pediatrics unit. The Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Center in Katy is an innovative facility providing access to an extensive array of Memorial Hermann services, all in a single location. The Center specifically provides 24-hour
emergency
care
along
with
extended and weekend hours for, pediatric and primary care physicians, sports medicine and rehabilitation, imaging and lab services. We also opened the Memorial
Moving Medical Tips
1 2 3
If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in this publication to get information. Call the offices of all your current physicians/dentists and tell them that you are moving. Ask for referrals they might be willing to make.
If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of the records of each of your family members to your new doctor.
4
If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/dentist to make copies of pertinent records of all your family members for you to take with you. Pack these records in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency.
Hermann Urgent Care in Fulshear, with onsite labs, imaging and physicians available 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week.
EXCEL URGENT CARE www.excelurgentcare.com 281-829-9900 It’s after hours, your primary care physician is not available and your child has just developed an earache. What do you do? Excel Urgent Care offers a solution - a convenient easily accessible, state-ofthe-art facility right in your neighborhood to serve your family’s urgent care needs. Excel urgent care is a facility dedicated to treating individuals and families’ acute non life-threatening illnesses as well as
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
providing timely cost effective occupational services to the employer. Excel Urgent Care brings a valuable service to the community realizing illnesses and emergencies do not keep a regular schedule. All physicians are board certified in their respective fields and are truly passionate about treating patients with the utmost care and consideration.
Excel Urgent
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.
Care offers convenience and availability
8
most major medical insurance, credit cards
66
Don’t forget your pets. Contact your veterinarian for copies of their records. Ask for referrals they might be willing to make.
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
to patients, opening its doors seven days a week with late evening hours and an appointment is never needed. They accept
and have discounted rates for cash patients.
UT Physicians offers Free Vascular Screenings
Urgent care is not to be confused with emergency care. Urgent care focuses on acute non-life threatening illnesses such as sore throats, lacerations, colds, etc. Hospital emergency rooms are for very serious or life threatening situations. .
Take charge of your heart and vascular health.
For your convenience, all 3 Excel Urgent Care locations boast an onsite lab for
Call today to schedule your free screening at a location near you.
routine blood work and an electronic medical records systems that transmits prescriptions directly to a pharmacy
713-486-DARE(3273)
and records to patients’ primary care physicians. Excel Urgent Care is here for you in Katy,
Early detection and treatment is key to preventing vascular disease.
Cypress and Missouri City when you need a high-quality urgent care facility.
Our
experienced staff is eager to provide the best possible treatment for your situation.
All results are sent back to your doctor.
UT PHYSICIANS www.UTphysicians.com • 713-486-3273 The clinical faculty practice of the UTHealth Medical School, UT Physicians, has experienced unparalleled growth over the last five years, making it the fastest growing academic medical practice in the nation. Beyond the confines of the Texas Medical Center, UT Physicians now boasts more than 210 clinical offices in and around the Greater Houston Area.
psychiatry,
rheumatology,
and
general
surgery. UT Physicians Pediatric Center at
extended hours, 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Cinco Ranch offers both pediatrics and child and adolescent psychiatry.
Many new patients come from word-ofmouth referrals.
“People like to stay in their community -- to get them to venture outside this bubble is
“Our doctors do a good job, and spend time
challenging,” says Carman Whiting, M.D.,
getting to know the patients,” Dr. Whiting
The idea of community-based UT Physicians clinics is one that started with the goal of bringing UT Physicians doctors to the patients.
medical director of UT Physicians at Sienna
says. “If a patient trusts you, that’s what
Village.
keeps them here and then they refer family
“When I came here, we had just opened Sienna and had the Bellaire location,” remembers Thomas Murphy, M.D., medical director of UT Physicians Bayshore Family Practice Medicine and UT Physicians Bayshore Multispecialty Clinic.
tronic health record (EHR).
Having clinics around the city also offers improved patient care through a unified elec-
“To provide exemplary care, we need an integrated system where primary care works well with specialists, all on same EHR,” Dr. Murphy explains. “The goal of the UT Physicians network is to provide a continuum of care across all age groups
In addition to adult and pediatric primary care, UT Physicians Health Center-Cinco Ranch offers specialists in cardiology, gastroenterology, neurology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, plastic surgery,
with a consistent, coordinated group of
and friends.” Dr. Murphy says that patients outside of the Texas Medical Center provide stability and long-term patient relationships. “Right care, right place, right cost – it’s a simple concept,” he says. The clinical practice of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston (a part of UTHealth), UT Physicians offers the most advanced technologies with a personalized touch from its flagship location in the Texas
providers.”
Medical Center and at a growing number of
Access extends beyond location. UT Physi-
Visit www.UTPhysicians.com or contact
cians Health Center-Cinco Ranch offers
them at 1-888-4UT-DOCS.
clinics throughout the greater Houston area.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
67
in this section senior housing options continuing care retirement communities assisted living communities
6 86 8 W EWS ET S H T OH UOSUT SOT N ON N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– S– USM UM M EMRE/RF /AFLAL L 2L 021071 7
ACTIVE ADULTS
& senior living The times of aging in America, they are a-changing – and many senior West Houston residents couldn’t be happier about it. Long gone are the days of mandatory retirement at age 65, and with it, the idea that one’s golden years were to be spent simply sitting quietly on the front porch in a rocking chair as they watch life go by.
More and more seniors don’t see themselves as seniors (unless they get a discount if they do). Increasingly, the years after age 65 are more numerous and more active. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Americans’ life expectancy in 2000 was 76.8 years; in 2014, it was 78.8. One of the reasons is that Americans are healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor and emergency room less, spend fewer days in hospital and exercise more. Turning 65 no longer means receiving a watch, a party and hearty congratulations for years spent at a job, only to be put out to pasture to watch the rest of the world go by. Today’s seniors now have many options, dreams and plans, and very often, the energy to pursue them. Of course, people
with more leisure time can perfect their golf
TAKING STOCK
swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas,
In order to narrow your options in what
but these days, they’re also choosing to go
could be an overwhelming list of choices
back to school, learn a new language, run
and to help you choose the best one, put
marathons, volunteer, or take up a new
some time into the stock-taking process
hobby. More people are opting to burn out
by taking a personal inventory of living
rather than rust out.
expenses, health, interests and expectations.
And the options for living and playing are
Budget Inventory: what does it cost to live
also evolving to meet the changing demands
every month? What are you spending on
of this growing group of people. From
housing or rental; how much does it cost
upscale retirement communities that offer
to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a mortgage
an array of housing, activity, exercise and
on it? What other expenses do you have?
social options, to full-care facilities that care
Food, entertainment, transportation? What
for people with mental and physical disabil-
medical expenses do you currently have,
ities, and every-thing in between, there is a
or do you anticipate? Be as thorough and
senior living solution to fit every desire and
honest in your assessment as you can, so
need.
that you can make an informed decision.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
69
A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G
health. It’s as important to consider access to medical doctors and facilities as it is to think about fun and leisure pursuits. Make sure the new community is one that you will enjoy, that it has convenient amenities and access to services, and that a new house will be a good investment. If you’re still active, you might want to be among folk just like you. Think carefully before making decisions that will determine your happiness in the years to come.
SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS “The time to begin thinking about a retirement community isn’t when you have Lifestyle inventory: How do you want to
62, and own the home outright or carry a
live? Need more time for golf ? You might
mortgage small enough to be paid off by the
want to live on a course. Want to do some
proceeds; there are no income or credit qual-
volunteering? You may decide to move
ifications or monthly payments, but you are
closer to the city, school or community
responsible to pay the annual taxes, property
center. Want to make new friends? Many
insurance and maintenance of the home.
senior’s communities are set up to allow you to do just that. Again, the more careful you are in your analysis, the more prepared you will be to make the right decisions.
SHOULD YOU STAY OR SHOULD YOU GO? STAY PUT You can retire in your own home by withdrawing some of the equity you’ve built up with a reverse mortgage, which is a special type of home loan that lets you convert a portion of the equity in your home into cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department of
Housing and Urban Development,
HUD offers this federally insured private loan which can give you greater financial security to supplement social security, meet
to have it,” advises Terry Martinez with Parmer Woods Retirement & Assisted Living. “Think about it when you don’t need it. There are a wide variety of alternatives available for every level of activity, health and need. Today’s Baby Boomers who are in or approaching their retirement years
The best way to determine if a reverse mortgage is the best fit for your retirement plan is to honestly assess the following:
are taking advantage of active retirement
• How much would the home sell for on today’s market?
care housing communities that employ
• What would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home? • Would there be any money left over from the purchase of a new home that could 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? (Visit AARP’s website and use their Reverse Mortgage Calculator: www.aarp.com).
unexpected medical expenses, make home
communities where residents are vigorous and involved. Or, they are finding seniormedically trained staff, provide housekeeping and meal preparation services, as well as transportation for shopping, medical visits, and social outings. Or, they are seeking a more physically and medically supportive environment. Whatever choice is best for you, it’s out there, but should be considered without stress. And the prices vary. “When you’re trying to stay within a particular price range, you want to match your living requirements with services offered,” says Martinez. “If you are very independent and don’t need assistance – just want a meal plan, for example
improvements and more. And, unlike a
PACK IT UP
traditional home equity loan or second
But maybe, it’s time for a move. Perhaps the
– then the associated costs are much less
mortgage, you usually do not have to repay
30-year family home is too big and you’re
than for someone who requires more care.”
the loan until you no longer use the home
rattling around it like a marble in a shoe
Also, Medicare generally does not pay for
as your principal residence, sell it, or pass
box, or you’re tired of the outdoor upkeep,
long-term care, only for services deemed
away. The money from a reverse loan may
or you want to be closer to the place or
medically necessary that are provided by a
be paid out in a variety of ways: a lump
activities that you now have time for. Before
skilled facility or home health care center.
sum, a regular monthly cash advance, as a
you choose your new home, once again,
Medicaid will pay for certain health services
credit line account, or any combination of
take stock. Be realistic about your situation,
and nursing home care for older people with
the above. To qualify, you must be at least
your expectations, your finances and your
low incomes and limited assets.
70
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
The place you choose should facilitate life at a level of independence that is comfortable for you or for your loved one.
ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES If you’re a healthy, independent senior, you may find that you simply want to live in a community where you can enjoy the
Oak Park Retirement Resort Affordable, resort-style, independent living made simple. Discover the peace of mind that comes with an all-inclusive lifestyle.
One monthly price includes:
company of others and your own personal interests. Moving to an active independent
Month-to-month lease with no buy-in fees Live-in managers Signature Freedom Dining program Social activities & wellness programs Fitness center 24-hour concierge Room service and chef's pantry Weekly housekeeping Much more!
living retirement community might be the best fit for your budget and lifestyle, where options include renting an apartment or purchasing a property. Many active senior communities have information packets and offer tours. A personal visit will give valuable, firsthand information and an opportunity to meet current residents
Call today to schedule a tour:
who can share their own experience and
281-371-6318
insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness
See how enjoyable life can be.
programs, organized activities, sporting options, and social opportunities. Other day-to-day living arrangements should also
1921 S. Mason Road Katy, TX 77450
OakPark-Retirement.com
be considered, such as shopping centers and grocery stores within easy walking distance,
one’s life. It is a wise idea to move into a
property instead of paying an entrance fee.
and
transportation
CCRC sooner rather than later, as most
Less commonly found are CCRC contracts
services. Where is the community located
require that new residents live independently
where residents pay monthly fees only.
in proximity to major health care providers?
when they first move in.
the
availability
of
What security measures are in place for
Before signing a contract with a CCRC,
residents? For ultimate peace of mind, you
There is a range of contract options offered
conduct a thorough review of the facili-
might opt to rent a home under a short-term
by CCRCs. An extensive-care contract is the
ty’s services, operations and finances, and
agreement at first to make sure the commu-
most expensive, but carries the least risk,
determine if it is appropriate to your needs,
nity provides for your needs and lives up to
providing unlimited long-term nursing care
lifestyle and expectations. It’s also a good
your expectations.
at little or no additional cost for as long
idea to ask a family attorney or accountant
as nursing-home services are required. A
to review the contract. If the contract is
modified-care contract comes with medium
found agreeable, ask to spend at least one
financial risk, and provides long-term health
night and two days at the facility, to test
or nursing services for a specified period,
drive the community and make sure it is a
after which, the senior or guardian is respon-
good fit. Some points to consider include:
sible for additional costs. A fee-for-service
• Are pets allowed in your residence?
contract offers an a-la-carte approach,
• What social, recreational and cultural activities are offered?
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offers care in a residential facility for seniors, with a full menu of services and living situations. Residents may go from independent living, to assisted living and nursing home care, depending on their indi-
requiring that residents pay separately for all
vidual, changing needs and abilities.
health and medical services provided by the facility, as well as long-term care.
A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or Communities) generally offers a contract
Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus
that covers a continuum of care, including
monthly fees thereafter. Some require an
access to housing, services, and health care
equity agreement where seniors purchase
for more than one year, or the balance of
a condominium or co-op apartment on the
• Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it? • Are there fitness facilities onsite? • Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable? • What healthcare and personal care services are available?
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
71
A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G
do not offer the extensive medical services provided by a nursing home. An ALC is not a substitute for a nursing home, but rather is a stepping stone between complete independence and services provided by a nursing home. Often, an ALC will create an individualized service plan for seniors upon admission, detailing personal services that will be provided. This plan is then periodically reviewed and updated to ensure changing needs are met. Housing in an ALC may be studios or one-bedroom apartments with small kitchen facilities. Typically, ALC housing units have group dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities. As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions: • Are the grounds well maintained? • Is the staff friendly? • Are the residents properly dressed? • What activities are available?
“
Seniors in Houston find that they have a wide variety of housing options that can accommodate their budget, while enjoying their lifestyle in a community that encourages the development and pursuit of their personal interests.
”
• What preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations?
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES
• Is there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided?
bridges the gap for those who need assis-
CCRCs can be anything from high-rise
An Assisted Living Community (ALC) tance with daily activities a nursing home might offer, but wish to live independently. Residents in an ALC are unable to live
ALCs that competently provide required services without forgetting about little details will give the same care and attention to residents.
NURSING CARE FACILITIES A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a state licensed, private-care facility that provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home. It pays to shop around when selecting an NCF. Consult with a trusted doctor or health care practitioner for recommendations of nearby facilities. Plan on visiting at least four or five area facilities, and make an appointment with the administrator or director of nursing. Check to make sure that information provided is consistent with information gathered during the facility tour. The home
apartments, to cottages, townhouses or
completely by themselves, but don’t need
single-family homes, and are an excellent
constant supervision. An ALC offers its
option for those who are independent and in
residents assistance with eating, bathing,
Ask to see the compliance survey report
good health, but might need some assistance
dressing,
and
prepared by the State of Texas. It will list
with daily living needs or require skilled
keeping track of medications. They often
deficiencies found in resident care during
nursing care.
have centers for medical care, but typically
routine inspections, and the facility’s effort
72
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
laundry,
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
housekeeping,
should have clean floors and smell fresh.
Retirement Without Compromise Don’t sacrifice the things you love and need in a home. At Watercrest at Katy, our customizable lifestyle options allow you to create your perfect retirement. Call to schedule your tour today! (832) 471-8472
K AT Y
WatercrestKaty.com to correct them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must make this and other survey compliance reports available upon request, as well as a well-lit place for review. Another option available is to contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) at 800-458-9858 or www. dads.state.tx.us. While state law prohibits agency employees from recommending one facility over another, they can answer the following recommended questions about any facility:
200 S. Katy Fort Bend Rd., Katy TX 77494 • Has the owner of this facility had other facilities recommended for license termination? The answers to these questions, combined with observations and impressions made during facility tours and staff interviews will allow you to select the right nursing care facility.
ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES Seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia need special-
of the entire family with social services, professional consultations and individualized treatment reviews, all set within a calm, soothing environment that is sensitive to the needs of the patient. Please visit www.agingcare.com for additional information on care for the elderly.
RETIREMENT CENTER Oak Park Retirement Resort
• Have there been any proposed license terminations in the past two years?
ized care. While some Assisted Living
• How many complaints have been filed in the past year?
facilities for residents with early onset symp-
• How many complaints in the past year have been found to be valid?
of the disease, it may become necessary to
• How many deficiencies have been cited in the past two years?
can give the right level of service.
• How many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years?
Facilities specializing in the care of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients should provide
200 S. Katy Fort Bend Road KATY, TX 77494 832-471-8472
• When did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit?
a treatment plan that considers not only the
WatercrestKaty.com
Communities offer services and separate toms, because of the progressive nature transfer the resident to another facility that
1921 South Mason Road KATY, TX 77450 281-371-6318 OakPark-Retirement.com
Watercrest at Katy
resident’s medical needs, but also the needs
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
73
74
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Photo courtesy of Uptown Park
BUSINESS and Community
“
Home to hundreds of energy-related companies, West Houston is solidly grounded as the energy hub of Houston, the Energy Capital of the World. But West Houston’s thriving economy is also highly diversified.
”
The
roster
of
major
West
Houston
employers reads like a Who’s Who list of global corporate giants, from BP America and Shell, to ConocoPhillips and Citgo Petroleum. In all, there are more than 300 local, national and multinational energy-related companies in West Houston; but the region’s economic diversity goes way beyond oil and gas. Approximately 600,000 people work in the West Houston area, with other major employers involved in healthcare,
ENERGY CORRIDOR DISTRICT
within the over 300 square mile service area. The fastest-growing chamber in Texas, the organization strives to constantly and consistently find innovative ways to involve and support all members. It is committed to being a prolific multi-event and networking content provider in order to benefit the area business community. Some sponsored events include: “How to Win Wednesdays,” “Fulshear State of the City,” and weekly podcasts.
www.energycorridor.org
enhance the quality of life and sense of
GREATER FORT BEND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
place in the over 1,700 acres that extend
www.fortbendcounty.org
The Energy Corridor District works to
along both sides of Interstate 10 and along Eldridge Parkway. The district’s vision is to
The Greater Fort Bend Economic Develop-
be internationally recognized as a premier
ment Council promotes economic vitality
place in which to work, live and invest. And
in Fort Bend. Championing the causes that
its primary purpose is to increase the values
support and grow the business culture in
of district properties through initiatives in
the county, the Fort Bend EDC and its part-
education, transportation, engineering and
transportation, public safety and security,
ners are the leading advocates for economic
construction, and retail.
urban environmental design, business devel-
growth, quality development, workforce
opment, and staffing and administration.
development, and pro-business policies on
Following is a partial list of some of the major chambers of commerce and economic development
organizations
working
to
advance West Houston and surrounding areas; their websites offer a wealth of information about the region.
CY-FAIR HOUSTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.cyfairchamber.com
a local, state, and federal level. They advo-
FORT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.fortbendchamber.com The largest single county chamber in the Houston region, the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce has more than 1,200 member companies and organizations. As the voice and advocate for business excellence, the
cate for policies that encourage businesses to relocate and expand within the county, commit capital investment, and retain and create quality jobs.
HOUSTON WEST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.hwcoc.org
chamber strives to be a catalyst for economic
“In Business, For Business” is the motto of
Since 1986, the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber
prosperity, tourism and community involve-
the Houston West Chamber of Commerce,
of Commerce has played a vital role in the
ment. It is among the 1% of chambers of
which has been working for West Hous-
growth of Cypress Fairbanks. This member-
commerce in the nation to earn a 5-Star
tonians since 1975. The chamber lists four
driven organization is the collective voice for
Accreditation, and is committed to maintaining and improving the excellent quality
cornerstones:
its more than 500 member businesses, and provides value through advocacy, leadership
of life enjoyed in Fort Bend.
and growth. It works to support and unite members, while creating strategic partnerships in transportation, education and local
FULSHEAR AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
creating
and
improving
economic opportunities for all; advocating and creating a climate of growth and success for its broad and diverse business membership; providing unique opportu-
www.fulshearareachamber.com
nities for members by connecting them to
ances with elected officials which ensures
The Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce
stronger communities by staying focused
that it remains well informed on public
helps all types of businesses increase their
and involved in top business, civic and social
policy affecting the region.
exposure and networking opportunities
priorities.
infrastructure. It also maintains strong alli-
important community issues; and building
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
75
WUESLIC B NO E SMS E &T O C OP M A LMMU N BE I TAYC H
HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house here, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help figure out the rest. If you made $60,000 in Seattle, for example, your salary could decrease to $41,995 in Houston - and you’d still maintain the same standard of living. See the table below for the results from a sampling of other cities. MOVING FROM HERE
YOU’D NEED TO MAKE
Atlanta 58,978 Boston 40,831 Chicago 50,705 Cleveland 58,221 Dallas 61,311 Denver 53,759 Detroit 63,462 Los Angeles
41,995
Nashville 61,890
MOVING FROM HERE
YOU’D NEED TO MAKE
KATY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.katychamber.com The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce has served the Katy-area business community by assisting with and advocating for business development and economic growth for almost 60 years. This voluntary organization of businesses and professionals offers services to strengthen existing businesses, encourage small business creation, and develop a talented workforce. Acting as spokesman for the business and professional community, the chamber delivers services to enhance the quality of life and business development opportunities for
New York City
25,910
Philadelphia 49,305 Phoenix 61,439 Pittsburgh 59,756
members and the whole community.
KATY BUSINESS ASSOCIATION www.katybusinessassociation.com The Katy Business Association promotes businesses in the downtown “Heart of
Raleigh 65,104
Katy,” where visitors can find antiques
Salt Lake City
61,120
arts and crafts, and much more. Downtown
San Diego
40,690
center located in the historic Missou-
stores, restaurants, gift and specialty shops, Katy also has an information and tourist ri-Kansas-Texas railroad depot. The KBA
San Francisco
33,401
and its members work to preserve the traditions and history that make Katy one
Seattle 41,995 St. Louis
63,697
Washington-Arlington 40,136
of the best cities to live and work, while meeting the challenges of today’s growth and changing demographics.
KATY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL www.katyedc.com Founded in 2003, the Katy Area Economic Development Council’s mission is to lead the economic development efforts of the Katy area to recruit, retain and expand new high quality, high impact companies, jobs and talent to improve the quality of life and place of Katy-area residents. Since its inception, the Katy Area EDC has grown to over 2100 members, has a budget of $800,000 and has assisted in the creation of over 16,200 jobs and more than $2.5 billion in capital investment.
76
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
SPRING BRANCH MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
area,” is an urban community of exceptional
initiative is its Quality Planned Develop-
www.sbmd.org
beauty, sophistication, style and interna-
ment (QPD) program, which recognizes
tional prominence in the heart of Houston.
real estate developments designed to create
Defined by its unique blend of prestigious
quality living and working environments,
business and residential addresses, with the
like Cinco Ranch, Cross Creek Ranch, Brid-
best in shopping, hotels, dining and enter-
geland and Towne Lake.
Spring
Branch
Management
District’s
mission is to positively impact public safety, business development, environmental and urban design, and mobility and transportation to facilitate profitability, promote the redevelopment and growth of the area, and to help create an environment attractive to business. Located between the Energy Corridor, the Galleria and Downtown Houston, Spring Branch is an area rich with diverse culture and history. Initiatives by
tainment, Uptown is unrivaled as the city’s premiere shopping district. It also has more
WESTCHASE DISTRICT
than 28 million square feet of office space,
www.westchasedistrict.com
7,600 hotel rooms, and is home to Waterwall Park.
Westchase District was created by the State of Texas at the request of property
WEST HOUSTON ASSOCIATION
owners within the district, who voluntarily
www.westhouston.org
services than the city of Houston would.
Spring Branch Management District include
tax themselves to provide a higher level of The District’s initiatives focus on economic
public safety awareness programs, security
The West Houston Association has a 38-year
development, mobility, beautification, and
patrols, graffiti removal and maintenance of
history of bringing new ideas to Greater
maintaining a high level of public safety. As
various landscapes.
West Houston. Its membership includes
a result, Westchase District offers an attrac-
property owners, major employers and
tive suburban lifestyle in one of Houston’s
UPTOWN HOUSTON
related community interests who combine
www.uptown-houston.com
largest, most dynamic urban centers. The
to advocate for improved mobility, better
unique character of the District has made it
infrastructure and a sustainable, quality of
a business and retail hub.
Uptown Houston, the umbrella term for what was formerly called “the Galleria
living environment for the 1.7 million residents and 540,000 employees. One major
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
77
in this section
Photo courtesy of Discover Green - Katya Horner, Photographer
parks and attractions art and culture sports and golf calendar of events
7 87 8 W EWS ET S H T OH UOSUT SOT N ON N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– S– USM UM M EMRE/RF /AFLAL L 2L 021071 7
LEISURE & RECREATION AND IN THE WEST HOUSTON, THE FUN CONTINUES.
many galleries or show spaces.
Some events, like Fulshear’s July 4 Freedom
It’s possible to fly indoors on a supportive
Fest, reflect the region’s small-town roots
draft at Ifly. Water down those spicy hot
and love of tradition. Others, like the Katy
summer days by slipping down a soggy slide
Why West Houston is so much fun.
Wild West Brew Fest and the West Houston
at Typhoon Texas or paddle in a puddle at
Food Truck Festival, celebrate the region’s
any one of the many splash-pad parks.
Life is too short to just work; you gotta play too. And in vibrant Houston, fun activities abound, with annual events such as the world’s largest rodeo, the nation’s largest renaissance festival and the country’s quirkiest event, the art car parade. The city’s diverse personality shines through with buoyant events like the Chinese New Year, Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth and GLBT Pride Celebration. It’s often said that Houston doesn’t cherish its history, but that’s not the case with traditions like the 80-year-old Azalea Trail and numerous historic home tours. Plus, Houston’s rich arts, theatre and restaurant scenes offer exciting experiences every day.
West Houston has plenty of attractions,
Houston draws wallets from around the
too, including cultural centers and history
world. And in West Houston, the shopping
museums, like the Katy Heritage Museum,
options are vast. From vibrant malls, outdoor
the Vietnam War Memorial, or the Veterans
markets and specialty shops, you can find the
Museum of
Texas, where the service
perfect thing, often at the right price. New
provided by all American soldiers from
urban-style destinations like CityCenter and
World War II to the present is documented
LaCenterra also buzz with free concerts,
and celebrated.
outdoor movies and much more.
Part of the rich demographic diversity that
Some of the largest urban parks in the
is Houston, cultural centers and festivals
nation are in West Houston, like Terry
celebrating societies from around the world
Hershey Park where you can mountain bike
are everywhere. In West Houston, you can
the anthills, or Edith L. Moore Nature Sanc-
take a hula class at Houston’s Hula Halou &
tuary where you can enjoy an owl prowl.
Polynesian Dance studio or enjoy a perfor-
The former Exxon Chemical campus along
mance of traditional Indian dance at the
the Katy Freeway is being developed into a
Anjali Center for Performing Arts. Houston
wooded space for people to relax in nature
One of the best websites for finding out about special events in Houston is www. visithouston.com, the official site of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau.
is home to the second largest Asian popu-
and take a break from the bustle of urban
lation in America (after Los Angeles) and
life.
yourself to a foot massage.
and presentations takes fuel to keep your
The website includes a visitor’s guide, interactive maps, coupons and discounts, and itinerary ideas. One of its most popular features is the Houston CityPass, which provides admission to 5 of Houston’s top attractions at a substantial discount!
Take the stage and hone your acting skills
luck. Hundreds of restaurants, from small
or watch others command the stage at a
mom-and-pop cafes to successful national
dramatic production at the Queensbury
franchises to one-of-a-kind culinary desti-
Theatre. Laugh until you cry and be part
nations mean the dining scene is varied and
of the fun at Houston Improv, the city’s
wonderful. You’ll be sure to find something
premier comedy club. Or take in one of the
to eat that hits the spot.
Live. Work. Play.
newer, trendier vibes.
in West Houston, it’s very easy to enjoy a traditional Thai or Chinese meal, or treat
If you need it, it’s here. The shopping in
Enjoying such a rich tapestry of activities energy up, and in West Houston, you’re in
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
79
PARKS &
ATTRACTIONS
8 08 0 W EWS ET S H T OH UOSUT SOT N ON N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– S– USM UM M EMRE/RF /AFLAL L 2L 021071 7
WEST HOUSTON PARKS ARTHUR STOREY PARK Arthur Storey Park, blends the importance of storm water retention with a park environment that includes amenities provided through a local initiative. Every weekend, hundreds of Harris County residents enjoy all that Arthur Storey Park has to offer.
trail that begins at the Phase II picnic area and ends 3.34 miles later at Highway 6. The trail takes you past wildflower plantings, 2 wetland environments, and through the shade of splendid oaks. In addition, there are 5 miles of trails in other areas of the park, some of which follow the picturesque banks of Mayde Creek.
BAYLAND PARK
GEORGE BUSH PARK
Situated three miles outside of the southwest end of the Inner Loop—on 70 acres at the corner of Hillcroft and Bissonnet— Bayland Park remains a popular outdoor destination for visitors of all ages and abilities. The multi-use park makes room for different sports as it features fields for baseball, softball, football and soccer, as well as a tennis court, jogging trail, community center and a pavilion. Bayland Park is also equipped with a running track for the visually impaired. There are restrooms and picnic tables spread throughout the park, along with two playgrounds.
BEAR CREEK PIONEERS PARK
Source: visithouston.com
The history of Bear Creek Pioneers Park that was created in the 1940s by the United States Army Corps of Engineers to prevent the repetition of flooding that occurred in Houston in 1935. Bear Creek Pioneers Park occupies a portion of the Addicks Reservoir, which was previously a land that was occupied for 100 years by farmers that were mostly German immigrants and their descendants. In 1965, Harris County leased 2,154 acres (8.72 km2) of the reservoir and started the park development. Bear Creek Pioneers Park is 2,168 acres in size and has paved roads and parking for visitors. The park also features walking trails, an equestrian trail, a small zoo (including buffalos, an ostrich, and emus) an aviary, playgrounds, soccer fields, little league and softball fields, four lighted tennis courts, eight picnic pavilions, horseshoe courts, and hundreds of picnic tables and grills. Near the aviary, ducks can been seen walking freely around a pond. The park also has restrooms all around the park and drinking water fountains.
CULLEN PARK Park visitors interested in enjoying the scenery can walk or ride their bikes along the paved
Named in honor of the 41st president of the United States George H.W. Bush. The 7,800-acre park located on the far west side of Houston, serves as a major attraction and nature reserve. The park has a system of jogging trails, many surrounded by swamps, forest, and bayous. Many of the trails follow the Buffalo Bayou, and biking is popular year round. The trail is well known for its flexibility in biking, many speed bikers ride the trails. It is very similar to the nearby Terry Hershey Park in that both feature paved trails. A critical shortcoming of the trail system is that the sole paved trail does not form a loop, requiring cyclists to either ride in the traffic lanes of high-speed thoroughfares or retrace their route. In addition to the biking trail, there is a large wooden bridge that crosses the Buffalo Bayou, dubbed “the Boardwalk”. Capable of holding 5 tons (10,000 lbs.), the Boardwalk was built in 2004, mainly to cross the swampy, meandering Buffalo Bayou. The bayou flows slowly and unsteadily in the area, spilling some of its water into swamps as it conjunctions with a second bayou. The Boardwalk provides easy access across the bayou, seating, but no access to the Buffalo Bayou shoreline.
HOCKLEY PARK Hockley Park has many of the amenities typical of a county park, such as picnic areas, a pond and a playground. But it has something else few other places can boast: a Soap Box Derby track. The half-mile derby track was finished in 2010 and draws racers from around the region and beyond to try out their soap box skills. Visitors can also bike and rollerblade up and down the track which is built on a man-made hill.
MARY JO PECKHAM PARK In 1991 the Mary Jo Peckham Park for all
Children opened. The park is designed to provide enjoyment for children and families, as well as older people and those with disabilities. Occupying 32 acres, the park features include a large playground; both toddler and regular swing sets; a miniature golf course that includes putters for young children; picnic pavilion; gazebo; wellstocked fishing lake where you can feed the ducks; a lighted walking trail; public restrooms both in the community center which houses an exercise room and indoor pool and outside along the walking trail; several picnic tables; grills; and a tropical fish pond.
NOTTINGHAM PARK Touted as a “Kid Fit Park” one of Nottingham Park’s most impressive features is the splash park - a terrific water play area for kids of all ages, and one of the largest of its kind in the Houston area.
PAUL D. RUSHING PARK
9114 Katy Hockley Road, Katy, Texas 77493 Named for Houston professional engineer Paul D. Rushing who designed and coordinated a variety of area land development projects over three decades, this 232-acre park is a gem in the Katy Prairie. In addition to a series of ballfields and clubhouses, Paul Rushing Park offers an abundance of other recreational opportunities. The Chain-of-Lakes wildlife habitat is a centerpiece. Covering more than 100 acres the area consists of a series of interconnected lakes of varying depths that provide the perfect habitat for native and seasonal birds. Summer birds include the black-bellied whistling duck and black-necked stilt. Fall brings shorebirds and waterfowl as well as hawks and sparrows. Bald eagles and crested caracarases also make stops here.
TERRY HERSHEY PARK The land occupied by Terry Hershey Park was acquired by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1940s. Located along the banks of Buffalo Bayou and South Mayde Creek, the park spans 500 acres and features some of the nicest on and off-road bike trails in Texas. There is a walk-in sundial where your shadow will tell you the time if you stand on the appropriate stone (and if the sun is shining!).
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
81
Photos courtesy of Lacenterra
Photos courtesy of CITYCENTRE
Katy Mills Mall - Photos courtesy of GHCVB
LWEEI SL U C ROEM&E R TO E CPRAE LAM TIO B ENA C H
WEST HOUSTON & SURROUNDING AREA ATTRACTIONS BROOKWOOD COMMUNITY
serves as the city’s visitor information center.
Featherstone House, the Stockdick House
Located in Brookshire, just west of Katy,
A caboose and elegant Verdin street clock
and the old Post Office. Concerts are held at
this is a non-profit residential facility and
grace the park. Also, the Katy Heritage
the Tradition Bank Bandstand. www.katy-
vocational program for adults with disabili-
Museum displays vintage farming artifacts
heritagesociety.com
ties. Brookwood is known for the wonderful
from Katy’s pioneer days, along with old
ceramics and other gift items made by its
photos and antiques. Old Town Katy offers
KATY PRAIRIE CONSERVANCY
residents; its expansive gift shops and art
unique shopping and dining in the original
Tour thousands of acres of preserved prairie
galleries carry a wide array of unique items.
heart of Katy. www.katychamber.com
with leisurely family friendly tours or more
The garden shop, with plants and flowers
strenuous nature hikes. Open Trails events
grown by residents, rivals the best nurseries
CITYCENTRE
anywhere. Ditto for the very popular café.
West Houston’s urban-style mixed-use center
Group tours are available. For more info
at the Katy Freeway and Sam Houston
visit www.brookwoodcommunity.org
Tollway offers an ongoing slate of events in
LACENTERRA AT CINCO RANCH
addition to its shopping, dining and enter-
This shopping, dining and entertainment
CENTRAL GREEN
tainment options. Check their website for
destination at Grand Parkway and Cinco
Free outdoor movies, concerts and special
events such as visual arts exhibits, live music
Ranch Boulevard offers free public events
events such as an annual children’s festival
and dancing under the stars, Doggy Party on
throughout the year, including a weekly
are offered year-round at this half-acre
the Plaza dates, and more. www.citycentre-
Farmer’s Market, outdoor concert series,
multipurpose park, surrounded by lakes and
houston.com
Baby Boot Camp and Mondays with Mom.
are also offered. www.katyprairie.org
restaurants in LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch.
www.lacenterra.com
Developed by the Willow Fork Drainage
KATY MILLS MALL
District, Central Green has an outdoor
A tourist destination of the retail kind, Katy
stage, large shady oaks, and outdoor
KATY VETERANS MUSEUM
Mills has 1.3 million square feet of shop-
seating around a grassy lawn. www.willow-
This museum in VFW Park features exhibits
ping, dining and entertainment.
forkdrainagedistrict.com/central-green
of every foreign conflict involving the US. It
www.katymills.com
CITY OF KATY ATTRACTIONS
KATY HERITAGE PARK
men and women from every branch of the
Katy offers the Railroad Park & Museum,
Katy Heritage Park has restored historical
armed forces who served in combat. 6202
housed in the old MKT Depot, which also
buildings including the Wright Museum, the
George Bush Dr. / 281.391.8387
82
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
also recalls the careers of the 130 members of the Katy VFW group, which includes
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
MARY JO PECKHAM PARK
DISCOVERY GREEN
events take place throughout the year.
Since it opened in 2008, this 12-acre downtown park has been a hit with Houstonians who enjoy its restaurants, public art displays, dog parks, lakes, and seasonal events including the holiday ice rink. More than 1.2 million visitors come to more than 600 events at Discovery Green each year, including movies in the park, concerts and fitness programs. www.discoverygreen.com
THE WATER WALL GALLERIA
HERMANN PARK
Designed by architect Philip Johnson more than 20 years ago, the Galleria-area Water Wall offers a refreshing respite for visitors seeking a mid-afternoon break. The 64-foottall fountain - built to look like a “horseshoe of running water” - sits among 186 oak trees at the base of the 64-story Williams Tower.
Arguably Houston’s “Central Park,” this 445-acre park wedged between the Museum District and Medical Center celebrated its 100th birthday in 2014 with a major facelift and the new McGovern Centennial Gardens, featuring 15 acres of rose gardens, an interactive family garden, a 30-foot garden mount, and a sculpture promenade. Hermann Park is also home to the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Miller Outdoor Theater, a Japanese Garden, train and pedal boats, and a golf course. www.hermannpark.org
NO LABEL BREWERY Tour Katy’s own craft brewery, No Label Brewing Co., located in a repurposed rice silo in Old Town Katy. Tours and tastings are offered every Saturday, and special
BAYOU BEND COLLECTION & GARDENS Bayou Bend, the magnificent home of Miss Ima Hogg, is best known for her superb collection of American decorative arts, innovative architecture, and breathtaking gardens. The heavily wooded 14 acres (5.7 ha) along Buffalo Bayou include eight formal gardens. Three of the gardens
HOUSTON ZOO Aiming to be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife, The Houston Zoo cares for over 6,000 animals, even educating some. Each year, over 2 million guests are enchanted, educated, and inspired as they experience the incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. With exemplary animal care in mind, the Zoo provides engaging animal experiences for visitors in multiple seasonal and permanent attractions, like holiday Zoo Lights and the new Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit. The Houston Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive. For ticket information call 713-533-6500 or visit houstonzoo.org
MCGOVERN CENTENNIAL GARDENS & CHERIE FLORES GARDEN PAVILION
HOUSTON ARBORETUM & NATURE CENTER
The McGovern Centennial Gardens is home to a diverse collection of gardens including
Photos courtesy of The Houston Zoo
Nestled along the western edge of Memorial
Hermann Park - Photos courtesy of GHCVB
Discovery Green - Photos courtesy of Eric Pohl
Park, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and the opportunity to experience the natural world – all in the center of town. Visitors can explore nature by walking on five miles of trails, take classes and visit the Discovery Room and the Nature Shop at the Nature Shop. Visit www.houstonarboretum.org
are named for a statue of a goddess or muse displayed in the garden, Clio, Diana and Euturpe. www.mfah.org/visit/ bayou-bend-collection-and-gardens
Located north of I-10 West near Pin Oak, this 32-acre park includes a playground, mini golf, a large picnic pavilion and a fishstocked lake. It also has a lighted walking trail, a tropical fish pond, a community center with an exercise room, and restrooms.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
83
LWEEI SL U C ROEM&E R TO E CPRAE LAM TIO B ENA C H
MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE Since 1923, Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park has been Houston’s venue for free outdoor performances. This remarkable facility with its free high-quality programs is unique in the US. It is the only proscenium theatre in the country that offers an artistically excellent, culturally diverse eight month season of performances totally free of charge to the public. www. milleroutdoortheatre.com
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. www.schlitterbahn.com
SPACE CENTER HOUSTON Space Center Houston, a $70-million, 183,000
square-foot
entertainment
and
educational complex designed by Disney Imagineering, offers hands-on, space-related experiences to visitors. In addition to a fullsize reproduction of the space shuttle, guests can use computer trainers to perform operations similar to the ones the astronauts used to launch a satellite or land a shuttle. NASA scientists and astronauts give briefings about current activities, visitors observe scientists and mission specialists at work
SAN JACINTO MONUMENT & MUSEUM
and in training via live video hookups. The theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature
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
space flight films. Exhibits include thousands of space artifacts, the Skylab space station and the largest collection of moon rocks on display anywhere on earth. A 60-minute tram tour of the JSC complex is
PORT OF HOUSTON BOAT TOUR
SCHLITTERBAHN GALVESTON ISLAND WATERPARK
The Port of Houston offers free, 90-minute round-trip, educational cruises along the
another source of entertainment and education for JSC guests. 281-244-2105
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Photos courtesy of Space Center Houston
With its huge array of awesome aquatic
Photos courtesy of Sam Houston Race Park
Photos courtesy of Schlitterbahn Galveston
the summer season the park offers over 35
Sam Houston Race Park is one of Houston’s premier racing, dining and entertainment destinations, located just 15 minutes from Downtown. Sam Houston Race Park have a variety of exciting sports and entertainment in addition to live horse racing as well. The Park features two major racing seasons – Thoroughbred Season (January through March) and Quarter Horse Season (March through May).
A tropical destination for families and groups. Explore the all new Rainforests of the World along within the Aquarium Pyramid®, the Discovery Museum & the action of the IMAX® 3D, 4D or Ridefilm theaters. Cruise aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, tee off at the new Moody Gardens Golf Course and relax at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center for an ideal getaway. Visit www. moodygardens.org or 800-582-4673.
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
can be your personal happy place! During
SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK
MOODY GARDENS
84
adventures, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island
Houston Ship Channel. Embarking from the port’s Sam Houston Landing, visiting sightseers can enjoy passing views of international cargo vessels, and operations at the port’s Turning Basin Terminal. Measuring 95 feet in length and 24 feet in width, the boat carries a maximum capacity of 100 passengers, with air-conditioned lounge seating and additional standing room on the boat’s rear deck. 713-670-2416
an arid garden, a rose garden, a woodland garden, an interactive family garden, and more. You can get a bird’s-eye view of it all by walking the spiral path to the top of a 30-foot mount. www.hermannpark.org
ARTS &e
r u t l cu
The theater district is an impressive cultural and entertainment center; features nine world renowned performing arts organizations, and many smaller ones, in four venues – Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
85
LWEEI SL U C ROEM&E R TO E CPRAE LAM TIO B ENA C H
THEATER DISTRICT ALLEY THEATRE
HOUSTON GRAND OPERA
STAGES REPERTORY THEATRE
615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org One of America’s leading not-for-profit theatres calls the Houston Theater District Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing in productions of the classics, modern plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces more performances than all other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District.
510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environment, the Houston Grand Opera entertains with their innovative programs, community events and educational projects. Houston Grand Opera has a solid reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 56 world premieres and seven American premieres since 1973. Stop in and visit and see why Houston Grand Opera has toured extensively, including trips to Europe and Asia, and is the only opera company to have won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards.
3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in the region that offers year-round employment for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres.
BAYOU PLACE 500 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.bayouplace.com Bayou Place is Houston’s premier destination for great food and good times. Popular venues such as the Revention Music Center and Sundance Cinemas are located here as well as many dining options – most popular is Houston’s own Hard Rock Café. This mosaic of entertainment options makes Bayou Place a prime spot for the Houston Theater District.
HOBBY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings first-class entertainment and cultural enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series.
HOUSTON BALLET 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as contemporary works. This company attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy whose instruction levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers.
86
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
HOUSTON SYMPHONY 615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org The Houston Symphony’s mission is to “inspire and engage a large diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.” By 2025, the Houston Symphony aims to be one of America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestras.
JONES HALL 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually.
MAIN STREET THEATER 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com Main Street Theater was 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.
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
SOCIETY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 615 Louisiana St., Ste. 100, Houston, 77002 www.spahouston.org The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years.
THEATRE UNDER THE STARS (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities.
WORTHAM THEATER CENTER 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined. The Wortham Center features 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.
MUSEUM DISTRICT CONTEMPORARY ARTS MUSEUM HOUSTON
dedicated to educating people about the
5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org
and other innocent victims and honoring the
The
Contemporary
Arts
Museum
Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews survivors’ legacy. The Holocaust Museum 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 of work and dynamic exhibitions on display. CAMH also offers special programs and Photo courtesy of The Art Car Museum
THE ART CAR MUSEUM 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com 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.
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.
dren’s Museum of Houston will not leave
welcomes special exhibitions. Making art
THE HEALTH MUSEUM
accessible to all is vital to their mission, so
1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org
no admission fee is charged and all public programs are free. They hope to educate
The Health Museum is Houston’s most
and inspire by being readily accessible to
interactive science learning center and a
future generations.
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 and the McGovern 4D Theater.
THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, HOUSTON (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents its exceptional exhibitions and installations
THE HOUSTON MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE
to Houston residents and visitors alike. The Museum has numerous collections that fill
5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org
the galleries year-round embracing every
As one of the most heavily attended museums in the United States, the Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) seeks to enhance knowledge and delight in natural science and related subjects. It houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permaspace science, Native American culture,
era of history from across the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou Bend Collection not too far away. From 2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a magnificent two new buildings.
BLAFFER ART MUSEUM University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg. Houston, 77204 www.blafferartmuseum.org
minerals, Texas wildlife and more. www.
Blaffer Art Museum helps the community
hmns.org
to engage in contemporary art through exhibitions, publications and public programs.
HOLOCAUST MUSEUM HOUSTON
This art museum is free, and open to the public in an effort to promote participation
5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org
in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the gateway between the University of Houston
anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.
1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org
that houses both permanent collection and
paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and
fun-filled hands on experience at the Chil-
THE MENIL COLLECTION
The Menil Collection is an art museum
1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org
infant play area are all under one roof. The
bers,” as well as other pieces of history.
Free.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF HOUSTON
Mexican village, puppet show and an
“Bearing Witness: A Community Remem-
educational opportunities. Admission is
nent exhibit areas that examine astronomy,
A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store,
Houston has a permanent exhibition called
The
Holocaust
Museum
Houston
is
and the City of Houston.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
87
e s r e v i D
DINING SCENE
8 88 8 W EWS ET S H T OH UOSUT SOT N ON N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– S– USM UM M EMRE/RF /AFLAL L 2L 021071 7
Brenner’s Steak House 10911 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77079 www.brennerssteakhouse.com
Sushi Hana Japanese Kitchen 1638 S. Mason Rd. Katy, 77450 www.sushihanakaty.com
Bistro Alex 800 Sorella Ct, Houston, TX 77042
Ray’s Gourmet Country 8502 FM 359, Fulshear, 77441 www.raysgrill.com
Cafe Rita 2352 S Dairy Ashford, Houston, TX 77077 Cou-yon Seafood House 11939 Katy Fwy., Houston, TX 77079 Dish Society 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Katy, 77494 www.dishsociety.com Doux Cafe 865 Dairy Ashford Rd., Houston, TX 77079 www.douxcafe.net Straits 800 Sorella Ct #940, Houston, TX 77024 www.straitsrestaurants.com Peli Peli 5085 Westheimer Rd., Ste B2515 Houston, 77056 www.pelipeli.com The Devine Affair 14021 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77079 www.thedevineaffair.com The Union Kitchen Memorial 12538 Memorial Dr. Houston, 77024 www.theunionkitchen.com Lupe Tortilla 318 Stafford St., Houston, TX 77079 9313-A Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024 www.lupetortilla.com Empire Turkish Grill 12448 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77024 www.empireturkishgrill.com
Masraff’s 1753 Post Oak Blvd. Houston, 77056 www.masraffs.com Local Foods 5740 San Felipe St. Houston, 77057 www.houstonlocalfoods.com Pizaro’s Pizza 14028 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079 www.pizarospizza.com Sushi Jin 14670 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079 www.sushijin.us
SHOPPING
Georgia’s Market Memorial Village 9201 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024 www.georgiasmarket.com
CITYCENTRE 800 Town and Country Blvd. Houston, 77024 www.citycentrehouston.com
Vine Wine Room 12420 Memorial Drive, Houston, 77024 www.vinewineroom.com
Forest West Shopping Center 5375 Antoine Dr Houston, TX 77091
The Tasting Room 818 Town and Country Blvd. #100 Houston, 77024 www.tastingroomwines.com CRU 2800 Kirby Dr. B-130, Houston, 77098 www.cruwinebar.com The Cellar Door 829 S. Mason Rd. Suite 280 Katy, 77450 www.thecellardoorwinebarkatytx.com
The Galleria Houston 5058 Westheimer Rd. Houston, 77056 www.galleriahouston.com Highland Village 4055 Westheimer Rd. Houston, TX 77027 Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir Katy, TX 77494 www.katymills.com La Centerra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Katy, 77494 www.lacenterra.com
Carmelo’s Restaurant Italiano 14795 Memorial Drive, Houston, 77079 www.carmelosrestaurant.com
Memorial Wine Cellar 7951 Katy Freeway, Houston, 77024 www.memorialwinecellar.com Another Round Wine Bar 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. D Katy, 77494 www.anotherroundkaty.com
Jonathan’s the Rub 9061 Gaylord Dr, Houston, TX 77024 www.jonathanstherub.com
1919 Wine & Mixology 2736 Virginia St. Houston, 77098 www.1919wmb.com
Town & Country Village 12850 Memorial Drive Houston, 77024 www.townandcountryvillage.com
Antonia’s Restaurant 2001 Katy Mills Blvd. Katy, 77494 www.antoniaskaty.us
Drexel House Eatery & Wine Bar 3974 Westheimer Rd. Houston, 77027 www.drexel-house.com
Uptown Park 1400 Post Oak Blvd. Houston, TX 77056
Bistro Provence 13616 Memorial Drive,Houston,TX,77084 www.bistroprovence.us
Sonoma Wine Bar 2720 Richmond Ave. Houston, 77098 www.sonomahouston.com
West Oaks Central Shopping Center 2703 Highway 6 S Houston, TX 77082 www.shopwestoaksmall.com
Churrascos Memorial City 947 Gessner Rd., B290, Houston, 77024 www.churrascos.com
River Oaks Shopping Center 1964 W Gray St Houston, TX 77019 www.riveroaksshoppingcenter.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
89
SPORTS
& GOLF
West Houston offers a wide variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone: couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scenes. With year-round mild temperatures, getting up and getting out has become a way of life.
Photo courtesy of Houston Astros 9 09 0 W EWS ET S H T OH UOSUT SOT N ON N ENWE C WO CM O EMRE R G UGI U D IED E– S– USM UM M EMRE/RF /AFLAL L 2L 021071 7
M
embers of Willow Fork Country Club
• CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF • ACTIVE TENNIS ASSOCIATIONS
belong for many reasons. We offer
golf, tennis, fitness, and swimming, as well as both casual and fine dining. We’ve also taken the next
• CASUAL AND FINE DINING
step and put a tremendous effort into providing
• SOCIAL EVENTS...
activities and events that further reach out and welcome families. With a variety of activities, including 18 holes of championship golf, active ten-
I am In.
nis associations, and a virtually non-stop calendar of social events, this is an incredible country club experience for all of our members.
Please contact Denise, our Membership Director today at 281.579.6262 Ext. 112 or email dcubbler@willowforkclub.com to schedule a personal tour of the Club and visit about our membership opportunities.
Willow Fork Country Club 21055 Westheimer Parkway Katy, Texas 77450
GOLF COURSES PUBLIC
Bear Creek Golf Course
281-859-8188
bearcreekgolfworld.com
The Golf Club at Cinco Ranch
281-395-4653
cincoranch.com
Hermann Park Golf Course
713-526-0077
hermannparkgc.com
Memorial Park Golf Course
713-862-4033
houstonmunicipalgolf.org
Pine Crest Golf Club
713-462-4914
pinecresthouston.com
River Ridge Golf Club
800-553-7517
riverridgegolfclub.com
Sharpstown Park Golf Course
713-988-2099
houstonmunicipalgolf.org
The Club At Falcon Point
281-392-7888
falconpoint.com
Black Hawk County Club
281-494-4244
bhawkcc.com
Hearthstone Country Club
281-463-2201
clubcorp.com
Meadowbrook Farms
281-693-4653 meadowbrookfarmsgolfclub.com
Pine Forest Country Club
281-463-0900
pfcc.com
Royal Oaks Country Club
281-899-3207
royaloakscc.com
Westwood Golf Club
713-774-3011
wwgolfclub.com
PRIVATE
Weston Lakes Country Club
281-346-1412
westonlakes.net
Willow Fork Country Club
281-579-6262
willowforkclub.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
91
LWEEI SL U C ROEM&E R TO E CPRAE LAM TIO B ENA C H Memorial ad:Memorial ad
10/21/10
2:21 PM
Page
town, or in front of your own television. Go Texans!
THE HOUSTON ASTROS www.houston.astros.mlb.com
MEMORIAL ATHLETIC CLUB AND AQUATIC CENTER
Part of the West Division of Major League Baseball’s American League, the Houston Astros are on a roll. Currently the winningest team in baseball, the team and its fans are having a lot of fun. Playing in Minute Maid Park, one of the country’s few stadiums with a retractable roof, the team serves up entertaining baseball action at home about 80 times over the course of the season. Fans enjoy gourmet hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex fare and many other delectable choices while enjoying the game. Around the park, many restaurants, clubs and music venues hop, especially on game day.
Since 1979
A Club Committed to its Members! NO CONTRACTS!
• 150 Aerobic and Water Aerobic Classes per Week • Free Child Care - 6 weeks and up! • Youth Speed Conditioning • Personal Training • SPINNING • Mac Kids
• Racquetball • Basketball • Indoor and outdoor 25 yard pools, heated year-round. Swimming lessons & Water Aerobics • Brand New WOMEN’S only facility included in membership
THE HOUSTON ROCKETS
Exercise Concierge service for all members!
Memorial Dr. @ Dairy Ashford
Photos courtesy of Houston Texans
(281) 497-7570 / www.fitmac.com
THE HOUSTON TEXANS
huge in Houston. In their 16th season, this NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012 and 2015 AFC South Division Champions. Head coach Bill O’Brien and owner Bob McNair have put together an exciting roster that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and new up-and-comers, like Deshaun Watson. Sunday football is celebrated in NRG
And there are plenty of places to play in West Houston. A wide range of municipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Fazio. Or watch the professionals grip it and rip it at the nearby Shell Houston Open. In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA professionals and First Tee Programs are offered throughout the greater Houston area.
THE MEMORIAL ATHLETIC CLUB AND AQUATIC CENTER
The Houston Rockets are the city’s professional National Basketball Association team playing in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. Two-time world basketball champions, the Rockets are regular challengers in playoff action and always provide exciting end-to-end action in the Toyota Center. Many star players have passed through the team’s roster over its almost-fifty-year history and now James Hardin and the rest have launched the Rockets back into competitive contention.
The Memorial Athletic Club and Aquatic
THE HOUSTON DYNAMO
MAC Wellness Concierge Program. Memorial Athletic Club offers a wide variety of classes and programs; with such a wide variety of choices it’s sometimes hard to know where or how to start. Your MAC Wellness Concierge will help you develop the best and most beneficial selection of classes, programs, and exercise routines for you to reach your fitness goals. All personally tailored to your individual and specific needs in order to maximize your efforts and successfully reach your desired results. At MAC you are not a number! Make an appointment with your personal wellness concierge today and see how far you can go!!! If you want to know more, please call them at 281-497-7570 or stop by and visit.
www.houstondynamo.com Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Houston’s Major League Soccer Team. The team name is reflective, in part, of Houston: an energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, fans have lots to cheer about as this team continues to rank well both at home and internationally. The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass Stadium, an architecturally acclaimed venue, located east of downtown
GOLF
with friends in the parking lot before and
Winters in Houston are mild and temperate,
after the game, at many sports bars around
with the average high in January (the coldest
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
so Houston is a golfer’s paradise.
www. fitmac.com • 281-497-7570
stadium cheering on the team, tailgating
92
43.2°F. There are over 200 days of sunshine,
www.houstonrockets.com
www.houstontexans.com
Football is huge in Texas and the Texans are
month) at 62.9°F and the average low at
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
Center is a high quality health and fitness center located in West Houston, Texas. Their no-contract philosophy contributes to quality health programs around their aerobics classes, cardiovascular and fitness centers, aquatic center, racquetball facility, and spinning classes. They pride themselves on providing a comfortable and clean environment, state-of-the-art equipment, and programs that continuously evolve to the interest of its members.
CALENDAR of EVENTS
WEST HOUSTON & SURROUNDING AREA EVENTS YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS
Photo courtesy of GHCVB
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
93
JULY FREEDOM OVER TEXAS 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 pyrotechnic artistry set to music.
CITY OF KATY FREEDOM CELEBRATION This collaborative effort will showcase a day filled with activities provided by the Katy Fire Department, Katy Heritage Society and Heritage Park, VFW Lodge and Park, and Katy Parks and Recreation. Attractions will include vehicle extrications, visits from U.S. Army and Marine representatives, a firehouse tour, water hose playtime, bounce houses, petting zoo and free hotdogs at the Fire Station, plus a delicious BBQ plate lunch for sale and both live and silent auctions all benefitting the VFW lodge. www.cityofkaty.com
FULSHEAR FREEDOM FEST & FIREWORKS SHOW Join in the festivities in Downtown Fulshear, as they celebrate our country’s independence.
There will be vendor booths,
fireworks, food trucks, children’s area and many more activities to enjoy with the family.
94
For more information visit the
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
Photos courtesy of Texas Renaissance Festival
Photos courtesy of GHCVB
Photos courtesy of Houston International Jazz Festival
LWEEI SL U C ROEM&E R TO E CPRAE LAM TIO B ENA C H
Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce
and Latin Fusion. More than a dozen artists
website.
from around the world will be featured. www.jazzeducation.org.
39TH ANNUAL WORLD SERIES OF DOG SHOWS The 39th Annual Houston World Series of Dog Shows by the American Kennel Club, one of the finest and largest indoor dog shows in the world, attracts more than 40,000 spectators, participants and vendors. Plus a few dogs. www//houstondogshows. com.
CLASSIC CAR SHOW AT JORDAN RANCH Coffee & Cars will have 50 exotic and classic cars on display at The Shed, the Fulshear community’s new amenity center. Enjoy a hot and cold coffee bar, brunch via food trucks, activities, tours of nine professionally decorated model homes and a chance to win a luxury vehicle rental for the weekend. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.jordanranchtexas.com
AUGUST KATY SUMMER NIGHTS Enjoy family-friendly movies in the park at Katy City Park from 8pm to 11pm, or whenever the movie ends. www.cityofkaty.com
HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL The Houston International Jazz Festival showcases Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Soul,
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7
HUNTERS EXTRAVAGANZA Taking place at NRG Park, this is the place where hunters from across Texas and beyond gather each year to get ready for hunting season. Whether its deer hunting equipment, hunting accessories, hunting clothing, rifles, knives, archery or any other hunting gear-hunters know they’ll find it at the Hunters Extravaganza. Plus, hunters enter great contests, see exciting attractions, meet their favorite hunting and sports celebrities and more! www.ttha.com/ hunters-extravaganza/event-information/ houston
SEPTEMBER TASTE OF THE WORLD HOUSTON FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL The Houston World Food & Wine Festival celebrates food, drink, music and dance from around the world. The festival has a globe-trotting theme that invites attendees to try out a new variety of food and arts and enjoy an international experience. It provides a feast for the senses and reflects the multicultural diversity of Houston.
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, arts and crafts that all celebrate life in the 16th Century. “When people step through the Royal Gates into the Texas Renaissance Festival, they are transported not only to another time, but to another world,” says Terre Albert, the festival’s general manager. www.texrenfest.com.
marching bands, imaginative floats and colorful balloons. Bring the family.
NOVEMBER HGMS GEM, JEWELRY, MINERAL & FOSSIL SHOW
JANUARY
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 one-of-a-kind treasures. www. hgms.org
KATY COMMUNITY CAMP OUT The event will start on Friday at 4pm through
OCTOBER
Saturday at 10am. Come out to VFW Park
THE ORIGINAL GREEK FESTIVAL
and set up your campsite with us! Enjoy a
Join in the celebration at the Original Greek Festival held at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Part of the proceeds are donated to various Houston area charities – such as: Children’s Assessment Center, Houston Area Women’s Center, Star of Hope Mission and many more. www.greekfestival.org
comfortable with your family under the stars
KATY RICE HARVEST FESTIVAL Considered one of Greater Houston’s top festivals, the annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival celebrates the area’s historic farming roots with two days of family fun, including two stages with continuous live entertainment, crafts, food booths and more, all found in Historic Downtown Katy. www.riceharvestfestival.org
hot dog dinner, camp fire and s’mores! Get to enjoy an outdoor movie before cuddling up for the night in your tents. Saturday morning we will be serving a pancake breakfast before you head out to enjoy the rest of your weekend. There is no fee, but you must register in advance. www.cityofkaty.com
NUTCRACKER MARKET The Houston Ballet’s major fundraiser, the Nutcracker Market is a shopping wonderland.
This
year’s
market
will
feature
more than 325 national and international merchants carefully selected for their unique offerings. Look for gourmet food, home décor, garden accessories, clothing, novelties and the perfect gift. www.houstonballet.org
RED BARN FESTIVAL
H-E-B HOLIDAY PARADE
Enjoy food, drinks, music and fun at this year’s Red Barn Festival in Red Potato Market in Simonton. Headliners are George Ducas and Jesse Raub Jr. www. fulshearareachamber.com/events/details/ red-barn-festival-3562
The 66th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade will welcome the holiday season by celebrating all things Houston, including a salute to the world-acclaimed Texas Medical Center. The Fun begins at 9am when the downtown streets come alive with zesty
CHEVRON HOUSTON MARATHON Established in 1972, the Houston Marathon Committee, Inc. (HMC), a Running USA Founding Member, annually organizes the nation’s premier winter marathon, half-marathon and 5K. About 25,000 runners participate in three race weekend events organized by 7,500 volunteers, creating Houston’s largest single-day sporting event. www.HoustonMarathon.com
10TH ANNUAL MLK YOUTH PARADE IN MIDTOWN The MLK Youth Parade will kick-off the MLK Holiday weekend of events. The parade will be held in Houston’s Midtown, originating on San Jacinto Street & Elgin Street beginning at 12 Noon (CST) and will feature more than 100 performing groups from across the nation including 15 award winning marching bands. www.mlkgrandeparade.org
MARDI GRAS GALVESTON ISLAND The Island’s 107th Mardi Gras celebration, is expected to draw more than 300,000 attendees for 30+ concerts, 22 parades, 20 balcony parties and five elegant masked balls. And, this island-style Mardi Gras has plenty of personality: from the classic revelry found in the heart of Galveston’s historic downtown district – where the bulk of festivities take place – to electronic dance parties and family friendly events and parades, Mardi Gras! Galveston offers excitement everyone can enjoy. www.galveston.com/ mardigras
NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER ZOO LIGHTS www.houstonzoo.org
The Houston Zoo magically shines with brilliant displays of colorful lights and festive holiday music. Sip on hot chocolate as you take in the thousands of glimmering lights on the huge oak trees, whimsical colorful projections and life-sized animated animal sculptures. www.houstonzoo.org ston Zoo
tesy of Hou
ur Photos co
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
95
ad index
APARTMENT LOCATORS
David the Locator.............................................................. 27
Meritage Homes................................................................. 18 Princeton Classic Homes..................................................... 1
HOTELS/TEMPORARY LODGING
CHURCHES Bridge Point Bible Church................................................. 61
Hotel Sorella........................................................................ 30
INSURANCE
CONSUMER SERVICES Katy Area Economic Development Council.................. 77
EDUCATION - PRIVATE SCHOOLS Ascension Episcopal School ............................................ 47 The Branch School............................................................. 48 British International School of Houston............................ 49 Faith West Academy ........................................................ 49 Fort Bend Christian Academy.......................................... 51 Grace School..................................................................... 51 Houston Christian High School.......................................... 53 School of the Woods.......................................................... 52 St. Jerome Catholic School.............................................. 54 St. Francis de Sales Catholic School................................ 52 St. Francis Episcopal School.............................................. 55 St. John XXIII College Preparatory.................................... 55 Yorkshire Academy ........................................................... 54
EDUCATION - UNIVERSITIES/COLLEGES Firat Educational Services................................................. 56 New Horizons Computer Learning Center...................... 58 University of Houston - Victoria......................................... 57
HEALTHCARE Excel Urgent Care.............................................................. 65 Houston Methodist Hospital System................................... 3 Memorial Hermann............................................................ 63 UT Physicians....................................................................... 67
Farmers Insurance – Chris Liebum.................................... 33
LOFT LIVING The Residences Hotel Sorella............................................ 30
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS Cane Island.............................................Inside Front Cover Hayden Lakes..................................................................... 21 Johnson Development: Cross Creek Ranch, Harvest Green, Jordan Ranch........................................Back Cover Kingdom Heights................................................................ 19
REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION SERVICES Better Homes And Garden Real Estate Gary Greene... 15 Innovative Realty Group................................................... 27 Real Living – Karapasha Realty........................................ 29
RECREATION Memorial Athletic Club & Aquatic Center .................... 92 Renaissance Festival...............................Inside Back Cover Schlitterbahn...................................................................... 11 Willow Fork Country Club.................................................. 91
SENIOR LIVING Oak Park Retirement.......................................................... 71 Watercrest at Katy............................................................. 73
TRANSPORTATION My Plates............................................................................. 40
HOME BUILDERS Ashton Woods Homes........................................................ 15 Beazer Homes..................................................................... 27 Chesmar Homes................................................................. 21 Lennar Homes....................................................................... 9 M/I Homes........................................................................... 23
UTILITIES Comcast / XFINITY.......................................................... 7/37 Consolidated Communications ...................................... 39 TXU Energy............................................................................ 5
Advertise in the next issue
Reserve your premium or preferred position today!
96
– S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 7 To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
Premier Photography
Master-planned communities by Johnson Development capture the finest in land planning, architectural integrity and resort-style amenities. Discover homes to suit your taste and lifestyle, including luxurious patio homes and estate homes. Each community reflects the growing emphasis among families Houston . Dallas/Fort Worth . Atlanta
for neighborhoods with a purpose, where friends connect and amenities richly enhance quality of life.
Homes from the $200s-Millions+ . JohnsonDevelopment.com
environments
that celebrate
LIFE.