Specialties and Services at our Bay Area Hospitals: - Breast Health - Colorectal - Dermatology - Ear, Nose & Throat - Emergency & Urgent Care - Gastrointestinal - Heart - Lab & Imaging - Labor & Delivery - Minimally Invasive Surgery - Neonatal Care - Neurosciences/Stroke - OB/GYN - Oncology (MD Anderson collaboration) - Ophthalmology - Orthopedics - Outpatient Surgery - Pediatric Specialty Care - Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery - Primary Care - Thoracic - Urology - Women’s Health - and many more
UTMB wondered… wouldn’t it be easier to access all the care you need in the Bay Area if we brought it closer to you?
UTMB Health now has the most comprehensive network of care in the region, including the largest number of primary care physicians, along with specialties you need most—like women’s health, heart care, neurosciences, orthopedics, cancer care delivered in collaboration with MD Anderson, and many more. It’s a level of innovative care not offered by anyone else in the region.
Find a physician at utmbhealth.com/BayArea.
C L E A R
L A K E
•
L E A G U E
C I T Y
•
G A L V E S T O N
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A N G L E T O N
D A N B U R Y
contents | features 19 32
Housing & Neighborhoods
74
Leisure, Recreation and Area Attractions
91
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory
Clear Lake & Surrounding Area School Districts and Education ON THE COVER Celebrating 50 years of Apollo Cover Image Collage by Elizabeth Morrell, Boeing
PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: Visit Houston City of Nassau Bay Lennar Homes Space Center Houston Armand Bayou & Gary Seloff Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Lutheran South Academy Houston Astros The Lone Star Flight Museum
32 74
Ashton Woods Homes Ruth Burke Eric Pohl Tuscan Lakes Clear Creek ISD Odyssey Academy Distinct Abilities UH Clear Lake
© WEB Media Group LLC 2019 Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce Newcomer and Relocation Guide 2019 - ISSUE 1 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
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contents|sections WELCOME TO CLEAR LAKE • 10
10
HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 18 19 Neighborhoods & Cities 23 Surrounding Communities
HOME FRONT • 24
24
Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans VICE PRESIDENT Robert Nusbaum
37 Clear Lake Private Schools 40 Higher Education
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 46 47 Moving Companies 48 Transportation 49 Utilities 52 International Relocation 54 Places of Worship
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 56 58 Area Hospitals 60 Finding a Doctor
BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 66 69 B oating & Tourism 70 Business Organizations 72 Maps
83
CEO
28 Mortgage Options
34 Clear Lake Public Schools
66
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
26 Choosing a Realtor
EDUCATION IN THE CLEAR LAKE & SURROUNDING AREA • 32
56
Phone: 512-266-2900 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Adams ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Paul Yarbrough ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jill Roe SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce Newcomer and Relocation Guide is published and distributed bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC For advertising information, please call 512-266-2900. 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,
LEISURE + RECREATION • 74 78 Parks & Attractions
or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.
83 Dining Scene 86 Sports & Golf 88 Arts and Culture
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY • 99 4
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752 Phone: 512-266-2900 www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
“The ultimate prize will be when we defeat you, cancer”
WELCOME from the
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD BRIAN FREEDMAN The Boeing Company CHAIR ELECT SHAWN BAILEY AMOCO Federal Credit Union VICE CHAIR ADMINISTRATION KRISTI KONCABA Texan Bank VICE CHAIR FINANCE BOB DAVEE Greer, Herz & Adams LLP VICE CHAIR MEMBERSHIP JONATHAN COTTRELL Elizabethtown Properties, LLC VICE CHAIR RESEARCH GLENN ELLIS Jacobs PAST CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD BRYAN BOGLE AMOCO Federal Credit Union BO A R D O F D I R E C T O R S DR. CHANDA ABBOTT Bay Area Audiology & Hearing Aids NICOLE BELLOW Smarter HR Solutions JACOB BIGGER Kemah Boardwalk AMBER BROWN I.V. League Tutoring TERI CRAWFORD San Jacinto College SHERRY CAMACHO HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake
Thank You for Your Membership! I’m excited about the Clear Lake Area Chamber’s continued mission of being “Champions for Business Success and Quality of Life in our Community”. This year, our Board of Directors will be focused on looking forward and giving back. The Clear Lake Area region has shown that we are a resilient and thriving community and your Clear Lake Area Chamber is leading the way by bringing organizations and individuals together to advocate and promote success. The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce is an incredibly active organization that advocates for you, your business, and the community 1201 E. NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058 even when you busy running your business. From our annual events such as Epicurean P:are 281-488-7676 | F: 281-488-8981 | www.ClearLakeArea.com Evening, the Spring Fever Golf Tournament, and the Business & Wellness EXPO, along with numerous monthly activities, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in your community. The Chamber’s nearly 1,000 members represent 2 counties and 9 cities and are ready to become engaged to share their enthusiasm and commitment with you for our dynamic and growing area. Unlike any other region in our state, our educational institutions, non-profits, aerospace, marine, tourism, and other recreation industries, continue to enrich our lives on a daily basis. We are truly fortunate to live, work and play in an area that values creative and hardworking businesses that contribute their time, resources and staff to help make our community a stronger, healthier and more enjoyable place to thrive.
YASMINE DAVID Salata SUE FLANNIGAN Berkeley Eye Center STEPHEN GOFF LyondellBassell Industries ASHLEY HELMS Powertech Services/Get Social! REBECCA LILLEY Memorial Hermann DOUG MEISINGER Clear Lake Today CHRIS REED Chris Reed Consulting CHANCE SANFORD Space Center Houston CARLOS SIERRA Hilton Garden Inn ADAM SMITH Gulf Coast Educators FCU WAYNE RUTLEDGE Rutledge Commercial Real Estate EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS BOB MITCHELL Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Dr. GREG SMITH Clear Creek Independent School District
This directory is an excellent reference tool that reinforces the idea of staying local. Helping one another prosper is a community trait that should be integrated in our daily lives. “Buy Into Bay Area” is not just a slogan, it’s a concept and principle that our members believe in and know to be a proven strategy for assisting all of us to be more productive in our business and our personal lives. So use this guide when you are looking for a product, service, or organization to support. This Chamber welcomes and appreciates every one of its members. Together we make up a dynamic, diverse group of committed individuals and businesses that truly make the Clear Lake Area a prosperous community of which we all want to be a part of. If you know of an organization or business that would make a good Chamber member, please let us know so we can get them on our team. Sincerely,
Dr. WARREN NICHOLS College of the Mainland Dr. BRENDA HELLEYER San Jacinto College Dr. IRA BLAKE University of Houston- Clear Lake E X-OFFICIO M E M BER DEBORAH ACO STA CONDER NASA/ Johnson Space Center
2018-2019 Chairman of the Board Brian Freedman, The Boeing Company
GENERAL COUNSEL DICK GREGG, JR. Gregg & Gregg, P. C. STAFF CINDY DEWEASE, IOM, President/CEO SHARI SWEENEY, IOM, Vice President JENNY AVIS, Member Sales Representative PRESLY CARR, Accounting Specialist CHARLENE LEHRMANN, Front Office Coordinator STEPHANIE TANNER, Communications Specialist
6
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE – SPRING/SUMMER 2018
WELCOME from the
PRESIDENT AND CEO Welcome to the Clear Lake Bay Area Houston region and thank you for choosing the latest edition of the Clear Lake Area Newcomer and Relocation Guide compliments of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. I encourage you to use this publication to help you settle into our great community. This publication provides you with helpful tools as you and your family become familiar with the area. You will find useful information regarding the individual cities that make-up the Clear Lake region and housing options that are available. Other much needed relocation facts are included as well from moving tips, to getting a new Texas drivers license. You can also learn about our fine school districts, excellent health care and other products and services available locally. Within this publication you will also find the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce 2019 Buy Into Bay Area Membership Directory, pictures of our Chamber leadership and our 2018-2019 Program of Work. I encourage you to use this membership directory when making purchases. Spending our money at home, from every day to major purchases will impact our local economy. For every $100 you spend with a local business, $45 stays within our community benefiting you and me. Your business makes a difference to our local merchants, restaurants, healthcare providers, realtors, and any of the goods and services provided by our area businesses. The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c) 6 non-profit business organization promoting economic growth and quality of life for our area. The Chamber of Commerce is not part of city, county or state government; a political party or faction; a civic or social club; a social service or welfare agency. The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce is an organization through which volunteers effectively work together to make our community a better place to visit, work, live and raise a family. The Chamber is also responsible for producing unique area events such as the Christmas Boat Lane Parade, Epicurean Evening, Business and Wellness Expo and the New Teacher’s Luncheon. I invite you to visit www.clearlakearea.com to learn more about the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. On behalf of the Officers, Directors, membership and staff of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce we are happy that you have chosen to relocate to our community and welcome you as one of our newest residents. We are fortunate to call this community our home. Remember you can do your part to keep our Clear Lake Area economy going by continuing to support our local businesses and Buy Into Bay Area.
President and CEO Cindy DeWease, IOM Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce “Champions for business success and quality of life in our community.”
WELCOME from the
BAY AREA HOUSTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP Welcome! The Bay Area is full of multiple sectors of business that keep our economy thriving. Job growth makes this region attractive to newcomers. To our valued Bay Area Houston Newcomers, The Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP) extends a warm welcome to you as you settle into your new home and get acquainted with all that Bay Area Houston has to offer. BAHEP has spent the past 40 years building a heritage of trusted leadership. Texas is pro-business, and Bay Area Houston is home to a diverse range of businesses including those in the aviation / aerospace, maritime, health care, specialty chemical, and education sectors. Together with the active participation of our members, BAHEP has become a recognized force on behalf of job growth and retention and overall economic growth in southeast Texas. There is a building boom in the downstream oil and gas industry along the Houston Ship Channel and beyond, which is creating great jobs now and providing lucrative careers for students who want to pursue jobs in that industry. The commercial space industry is poised to grow regionally, as well, with the new Houston Spaceport and other development that is taking place at Ellington Airport. BAHEP has been partnering with Texas A&M University at Galveston, along with over 30 other municipalities and community organizations, to broaden its work on behalf of a storm surge suppression system for the upper Gulf Coast in order to better protect the region’s residents and businesses. It’s a great time to live and work in Bay Area Houston, and we sincerely appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the region’s progress in a meaningful way. We ask that you consider BAHEP a resource for your business needs and consider joining with others in the community as we work on behalf of all those who call Bay Area Houston home. Best regards,
Bob Mitchell President Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
P.O. Box 58724, Houston, TX 77258-8724 832-536-3255 | Fax: 832-536-3258 www.bayareahouston.com
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
WELCOME from the
AREA ELECTED OFFICIALS As the State Representative for House District 24 in Galveston County, and a lifelong resident of the region, I’d like to welcome you to the Clear Lake Area. The western shore of Galveston Bay is home to friendly people, thriving communities, and a dynamic regional economy. Whether you’re only staying for a short visit or thinking about making the Clear Lake Area your new home, I hope that you take full advantage of all that this area has to offer. Recognized for its outstanding natural resources, state-of-the-art aerospace industry, educational and cultural amenities, the Clear Lake Area has something for everyone to enjoy. As always, if there is anything that you need, please do not hesitate to let us know. We are here for you.
State Representative Dr. Greg Bonnen District 24
It is my privilege to represent the Bay Area as your State Representative. Our community is thriving with excellent growth, education and business opportunities. I’ve been working hard in the District and Austin to represent you and your values. As your State Rep, I sit on the Insurance and Pensions Committees and also started the Aerospace Legislative Caucus and became House Chairman of that caucus. This Caucus was formed to promote initiatives that will secure Texas’ ranking as a world leader—advancing space exploration, science and security. In the last legislative session, I was proud to receive an A+ rating from Americans For Prosperity for promoting economic freedom as well as being recognized by the Texas Association of Business as a “Champion for Free Enterprise”. I am committed to serving you by continuing to defend the constitution, reduce our property tax burden, support education and fight for less government regulation. It’s a great time to be a Bay Area resident.
State Representative Dennis Paul HD 129
Welcome to the Clear Lake Area! As the Texas State Senator who has the privilege of representing a large part of the Gulf Coast, I would like to welcome you to our corner of Texas. The Clear Lake Area is a unique and friendly destination, whether you are looking to visit or join our community. We are honored to be the site of NASA Space Center Houston, the home to our nations astronauts and the site of Mission Control. Of course, being just steps from the ocean, we also have tons of outdoor activities like fishing and boating, not to mention our beautiful parks and trails such as Armand Bayou Nature Center. Having been born and raised here, I have been able to see this area grow and prosper into a place filled with industry and business, yet still maintaining its natural beauty. We are a hardworking people with a rich history to share, so plan to take a moment and go by any of our museums or monuments. I hope you enjoy our hospitality as much as I do, and welcome to the Gulf Coast Area of Texas!
Senator Larry Taylor Senate District 11
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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In this section Welcome Tourism & Culture City Summaries Houston by the Numbers
10
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Welcome to the
CLEAR LAKE AREA
The Bay Area is often called the “Boating Capital of Texas” based on it having the third largest fleet of recreational boats in the United States and the greatest concentration of boats in Texas. It is also the home of NASA and space exploration.
Seventy-five years ago the Clear Lake Area
and villages in the Clear Lake Area ideal
greater Clear Lake Area. Many of the
was a sleepy coastal plain midway between
places to live for active families, retirees
health care professionals working in the
Houston and Galveston. Its laid-back days
and young professionals.
world famous Texas Medical Center live
ended with the development of NASA/JSC which brought new neighborhoods, retail and commercial businesses, a university and increased tourism to the area. While best known for the NASA/Johnson Space Center, The Clear Lake Area offers a relaxing coastal lifestyle unmatched in
Clear Lake is an international gateway due
in the Clear Lake Area. While Clear Lake
to its close proximity to Houston, the fourth
Area hospitals, all leaders in their own
largest city in the United States; the Port
right, give health care professionals the
of Houston, one of the largest ports in the
opportunity to work closer to home.
United States; the Petro-Chemical Corridor; and the William P. Hobby Airport and
TOURISM
Ellington Field.
The Bay Area is often called the “Boating Capital of Texas”, a title based on it having
the Houston metropolitan area. The lure
Houston has the most Fortune 500 compa-
of the water, combined with a charming
nies in Texas, according to the magazine’s
seaside atmosphere, a variety of afford-
2017 ranking. There are 25 Houston-based
region in Texas. Even more impressive, it
able housing, and some of the best
companies on the annual list and most
has the third largest fleet of recreational
schools in Texas make the small cities
of the companies have operations in the
boats in the United States.
the greatest concentration of boats of any
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
11
WELCOME
Living in a resort area means there is always something fun to do in the great outdoors from boating, bird watching and nature hiking, to fine dining and shopping along the water’s edge. Arts, cultural and sporting events are weekend occurrences throughout the Clear Lake Area and more opportunities are on the way. Space Center Houston celebrated the opening of Independence Plaza in January 2016, its newest space related attraction. Independence Plaza showcases a replica of the Space Shuttle Independence which sits on top of the NASA 905 shuttle carrier. The Armand Bayou Nature Center is America’s largest urban wildlife preserve, protecting more than 360 animal species The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the
food, people watching and panoramic
Some 70,000 visitors take part in educa-
most
venues
bay views. A variety of interesting shops,
tional tours, events, and classes annually.
with a colorful carousel, a roller coaster
galleries and restaurants surround the
The Center also comprises the upper
and fountain on its bustling waterfront
Boardwalk’s main hotel. A quaint shop-
portion of
plaza. Kemah is a must see for visitors
ping district off the Boardwalk is another
and locals wanting lots of sun, delicious
tourist destination.
and
encompassing
three
ecosystems.
the Great Texas Coastal
Birding Trail.
popular
entertainment
Just 30 miles south of
Clear Lake,
Galveston Island epitomizes the resort lifestyle enjoyed by area residents. With its sandy beaches, historic hotels and
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landmarks, fine and casual dining, plus the unique shopping district known as The Strand, day trips to Galveston are popular getaways. Families can spend the day at Schlitterbahn, one of the largest water parks in Texas, and stop by one of the many restaurants along the Seawall for dinner before heading home.
COMMERCE The Bay Area’s fiscal base consists of the aerospace, petrochemical, healthcare, education and commercial boating industries; recreation; and a robust tourism sector. Attractions like Space Center Houston, Kemah Boardwalk, Clear Lake
www.LeagueCityChamber.com 319 E. Galveston St., Ste B League City TX 77573 281.338.7339
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
and the Armand Bayou Nature Center, plus the region’s access to international airports make Clear Lake a favorite destination for tourists, businesses and newcomers alike.
North of Clear Lake in Baytown, Exxon-
CITIES
Mobil and Chevron Phillips are taking advantage
of
market
undertake
extensive
conditions
plant
to
expansions
and improvements, bringing more jobs to the area while boosting the economy. ExxonMobil’s plant in Baytown employs about 6,000 workers. Expansions will add 350 more. Chevron Phillips project will support 400 long-term jobs and 10,000 construction and engineering jobs.
Clear Lake City Clear Lake City Community Association 281-488-0360 • www.clcca.org Friendswood Development Co. developed and opened the Master-Planned community called Clear Lake City in 1963. For several decades Clear Lake City led the Houston area in the sale of new, single-family homes. In fact, Clear Lake City weathered several economic downturns during the 1980s because of its
CULTURE The Clear Lake Area is comprised of nine distinct cities and municipalities representing a combined population of well
Kemah Boardwalk
quality lifestyle, diversified economy-largely the NASA/Johnson Space Center, retail businesses, recreation and tourism.
of new single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and apartment homes. Clear
over 216,000 residents scattered across 125
Located on 487 acres adjacent to the
Lake City is served by the Clear Creek Inde-
square-miles. The business climate in the
Johnson Space Center, The University
pendent School District.
Bay Area attracts residents from around
of Houston-Clear Lake began scheduled
the world who bring their diverse cultures
classes in 1974.
Clear Lake Shores
to the region. The area is bordered to the
281-334-2799 • www.clearlakeshores-tx.gov
west by Interstate-45 and to the east by
Today, with an estimated population of
Clear Lake; effectively the mouth of Clear
63,500, Clear Lake City continues to develop
Located on the shores of Clear Creek and
Creek which empties into Galveston Bay.
and attract newcomers with a steady supply
Clear Lake west of Highway 146, Clear
Banking to the N th degree. Banking to the N th degree.
Houston • Friendswood • Clear Lake • Sugar Land
Houston • Friendswood • Clear Lake • Sugar Land
(281) 276-1800 (281) 276-1800
WWW ANNKB. CAONMK . C O M WW . TW E X. T AE NX BA
N N
e Caring too tth he
t g n i r a C
th th
Degree
Degree
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
13
WELCOME
City of Kemah, Photo Courtesy of Eric Pohl
Seabrook, Texas
Lake Shores is a charming village often
roller bladers, and pedestrians to circum-
ever-present cooling winds from upper
called the “Yachting Capital of Texas”.
navigate the island and enjoy the great
Galveston Bay, contribute to Kemah being
With a little over 1,000 residents, Clear
views of Clear Lake.
called, “The Gateway to the Bay.” By size,
Lake Shores is known for its small town atmosphere and love of the water. The shoreline drive allows golf carts, bicycles,
WHERE SIMPLE elegance MEETS SOUTHERN charm
Kemah is the third largest boating recreClear Lake Shores was established in 1927 is a blend of original turn-of-the-century
The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the leading
cottages, often used for weekend escapes,
recreational
and modern homes with full-time residents.
Houston area. It is considered the go-to
The oldest municipal building still in use in
place for out-of-towners staying in Houston.
Galveston County is The Clubhouse and is
The Boardwalk features a hotel, gift shops,
a source of community pride. Community
numerous restaurants and an amusement
events throughout the year include music
park filled with exciting rides like “The
festivals, a children’s fishing derby, parades,
Bullet,” one of the top ranked roller coasters
holiday events and communitywide dinners.
in the United States
El Lago 281- 326-1951 • www.ellago-tx.com
Plantation on the Bay is a scenic waterfront celebration estate, where destination events are close to home. Our property is full of Simple Elegance and Southern Charm, with mature trees, views of the bay, and picturesque balconies. We can easily host wedding receptions, corporate events, private parties, and gatherings for up to 250 guests.
destinations
in
the
entire
Additionally, Kemah is just minutes from NASA/Johnson Space Center, 30 minutes from Galveston and 45 minutes from
The name of the city means “The Lake.”
Houston. The Lighthouse District with
Located on Taylor Lake, Clear Lake and
retail stores, boutiques, restaurants and
NASA Road 1, this residential commu-
specialty seafood shops is a favorite spot
nity is home to about 2,700 citizens. The
with tourists.
one-square mile city began to develop during
Weddings | Corporate Events | Private Parties
ation district in the United States.
and incorporated in 1962. The community
the 1950s and was incorporated in 1964. Three subdivisions and several multi-family complexes along with a few small businesses
Year round festivals, ranging from Crawfish Boils to Boat Parades, car and boat shows, to the Kemah Triathlon add to the many
make up El Lago.
activities available to residents. The annual
Kemah 281-334-1611 • www.kemah-tx.gov
the Fleet” and “Jingle on the Boardwalk,”
Fourth of July parade, “The Blessing of draw
thousands
of
participants
from
Houston and surrounding areas. Quaint
www.PlantationOnTheBay.com PlantationontheBay@gmail.com | 281-709-4888
14
Situated on Clear Creek and Galveston
bed and breakfast lodging, hotels and spas
Bay, Kemah’s idyllic location and the
accommodate visitors.
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Kemah is off I-45 at the FM 518 exit, and
pond and playgrounds, perfect for the whole
C. League. Today, League City is home to
the intersection of FM 2094 and Highway
family to enjoy. For outdoor enthusiasts,
some 104,903 people.
146. The current population is 2024.
there are beautiful golf courses, marinas and
La Porte 281-470-5017 • www.laportetx.gov
sailing on Clear Creek. League City encompasses 53 square-miles and is mid-way
Nassau Bay 281-333- 4211 • www.nassaubay.com
between Houston and Galveston. Founded
Nassau Bay is far from the crowds of
La Porte’s many different attractions
by Colonel George W. Butler in 1873 and
Houston but close enough to enjoy big city
cater to locals and tourists whose inter-
first named Clear Creek, the city’s name was
life – a small town atmosphere thriving along-
ests are just as diverse. History buffs love
changed to League City in honor of John
side high-tech business. Bordering NASA/
visiting the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Park and the Battleship Texas. Eco-tourists and nature photographers use La Porte as a center for their tours of the nearby High Island sanctuary system and Armand Bayou wetlands. Sailors participate in weekly regattas or simply sail south from several marinas in La Porte towards the Gulf. La Porte is also the home of the only sandy beach in Harris County, Sylvan Beach Park, which offers 2,000 linear feet of beaches. This venue is great for family parties or business meetings and enjoying the great outdoors. Sylvan Beach Park has a maintained playground for children, clean benches and picnic tables, a fishing pier, boat ramp, and an air-conditioned pavilion. Whether you prefer fishing, sailing, kayaking or watching the sun rise, the warm waters of Galveston Bay are yours to enjoy year-round in La Porte. League City 281-554-1000 • www.leaguecity.com League City is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the gracious southern atmosphere that has become its trademark. Touring the Historic District, museums, and quaint shops along Main Street - lined with canopies of stately 100 year-old Butler Oak trees – is a popular pastime. New master-planned communities, established subdivisions and multi-family housing account for most of the housing in League City. The Dr. Ned & Fay Dudney Nature Center offers hiking and biking trails, bird viewing areas and a covered picnic pavilion. Heritage Park has a kayaking launch, fishing
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
15
WELCOME
Brazos Bend State Park
Johnson Space Center, the City of Nassau
Bay is accessible by air from anywhere in
159 species of birdlife live in the immediate
Bay is a community based on technology and
the world through two major airports and a
area. Virgin marshlands and hidden lagoons
innovation. The city is the heart of the United
number of private airfields.
are attractive breeding grounds and migra-
States space exploration program. Nassau
tory nesting places for White and Brown Nassau Bay was established in 1962 on
Pelicans, Ospreys, Cormorants, Herons and
the grounds of the famous Spirit of 1776
Egrets, to name a few.
Ranch. The natural beauty of Nassau Bay
Thinking of Moving? Let me help you find that perfect place to call home.
is reflected in its well-maintained parks and
Country clubs, fitness centers, miles of hike
public areas where century old native trees
and bike trails and acres of parks with pools,
still stand. Nassau Bay is also a family-ori-
tennis courts, soccer and baseball fields offer
ented, waterfront community that is fiscally
almost endless recreation choices. From music
well managed and actively supports the arts
festivals to wine tastings, regattas, car and boat
in the Bay Area.
shows and outdoor markets, Seabrook offers a new dimension to getaway living.
Seabrook 281-291-5600 • www.seabrooktx.gov
Fine dining, fresh seafood on the waterfront or a quick meal to go are all a part of
Marilyn Ames, Broker/Owner
2015 - 2019 TEXAS MONTHLY FIVE STAR PROFESSIONAL AWARD WINNER
Seabrook exudes the intimacy of a real
Seabrook’s restaurant scene. Markets along
hometown, with its rich green lawns,
the bay sell just-off-the-boat jumbo shrimp,
friendly neighbors and quiet streets, all
blue crab and fresh fish. Seabrook is coastal
nestled along the shores of prime waterfront
living at its best.
surroundings. A selection of modern apartments, patio homes and condominiums are
Taylor Lake Village
alternatives to single-family residences.
281- 326-2843 • www.taylorlakevillage.us
Seabrook’s Parks & Recreation Depart-
With about 4,000 residents, Taylor Lake
281.799.5572
ment takes tremendous pride in its efforts
and Mud Lake are quiet bedroom commu-
to maintain a perfect balance between man
nities with quick access to the water. The
and nature. Maintaining the natural envi-
villages are residential only and offer
WWW.PREMIERPROPERTIESOFTEXAS.COM
ronment is important because of Seabrook’s
beautiful forested home sites. Some of
proximity to Galveston Bay. Wildlife and
the residences are situated on oversize
Client testimonials available at www.marilynames.com
RealtyByMarilyn@gmail.com
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
waterfront lots. Building codes and zoning are strictly enforced to ensure the quality of new homes and improvements to existing houses. The tight knit community regularly takes part in swim teams activities, garden club events, and monthly parties. Residents also enjoy the outdoor activities the surrounding lakes offer. Webster 281-332-1826 • www.cityofwebster.com As the gateway to NASA and the central business district of the Clear Lake region, Webster is located midway between downtown Houston and Galveston, along the
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Since our beginning in 1876, BancorpSouth has been committed to providing exceptional service to all customers and businesses, offering a range of checking, savings, mortgage, investments, insurance, wealth management and loan services. We share the same philosophy and commitment to the communities where we live and work because at BancorpSouth, we are neighbors helping neighbors.
backbone of Texas—Interstate 45. The City of Webster features more than 100 restaurants and entertainment venues, 18 hotels, and 32 shopping centers. Webster is renowned for its world-class medical center, which serves over 1.8 million patients annually. And, Webster is the aerospace capital of the United States, home to top
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innovators, like Lockheed Martin, Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, Ad Astra Rocket Company, Boeing, TracLabs, NanoRacks, Airbus, and more. Many companies choose Webster to locate their United States headquarters, like ARI-Armaturen, Becker Marine, and Tri-Sen Systems, as Webster is business’ perfect climate and offers “The Webster Advantage,” which is a combination of low property tax rates, utility rates, and
RON CARTER CLEAR LAKE A PARTNER IN SUPPORTING EDUCATION AND ATHLETICS IN THE GREATER CLEAR LAKE AREA.
unsurpassed services. When in Webster, live it up at TopGolf, Main Event, Cinemark, Putt-Putt FunHouse, Big Texas Dance Hall, Scout Bar, and much more. Shop at Academy Sports + Outdoors, Fry’s Electronics, Star Furniture, Bed Bath & Beyond, and dine at Pappas Seafood House, La Madeleine, Chuy’s, and Carrabba’s Italian Grill. For an out of this world experience, visit Space Center Houston, Webster’s award-winning tourism partner.
RonCarterClearLake.com
281.283.7000
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
17
Master-Planned Communities and Area Neighborhoods Surrounding Communities
18
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Photo Courtesy of Sienna Plantation
In this section
HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS With a variety of lifestyle choices, it’s not hard to see why the Clear Lake Area continues to grow year after year. Add together a close to everything location, award-winning schools, and robust business centers and hospitals, and you’ve got a great place to call home, build a business and play sunrise to sunset.
The small cities and villages scattered
Master-Planned communities providing the
are ready to welcome newcomers. Visit
throughout the Clear Lake Area have
latest home designs and amenities continue
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com to
grown over the years and so has the variety
to be popular with families seeking on-site
access contact information.
of neighborhoods, each with its own
parks and recreation centers, quality schools,
coastal character and lifestyle. If living
business districts and shopping close by. You
on the water is a must, Clear Lake Area
will learn more about these Master-Planned
communities offer waterfront properties
communities in the following pages.
THE RESERVE AT CLEAR LAKE CITY
Townhouses, apartment homes and a
This new 372-acre luxury home commu-
luxury high-rise with panoramic views of
nity is located southeast of Sam Houston
the lake are popular choices with young
Parkway and Interstate 45 near Ellington
singles and retirees.
Field. The Reserve at Clear Lake City is the
with easy access to the lake and ultimately the bay. Some homes even have private boat slips. Acreage for a rural lifestyle or a coastal retreat can also be found.
CLEAR LAKE CITY
area’s first new home development in two
With the arrival of NASA in the early
Determining the right place to live will
1960s residential development in the Bay
decades. The first phase will feature 165
require a visit to get acquainted with all
Area soared. Today, some of the most
high-end homes on 55, 70 and 80 foot lots;
of the neighborhoods. The Clear Lake
a mix of traditional single-family and patio
desired neighborhoods in the Houston
Area Chamber of Commerce along with
homes. A shopping center anchored by an
region are in the Clear Lake Area with over
Realtors, builders, property managers, and
H-E-B Grocery store, shops and restaurants
216,000 residents.
others who know the local housing market
are nearby.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
19
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Neighborhood amenities include miles of hiking and biking trails as well as a recreation center with a swimming pool, splash pad, tennis courts and playgrounds. Residents are zoned to the award winning Clear Creek Independent School District. www.reserveclearlake.com
BAY OAKS The original homes in Bay Oaks were constructed in 1989 and the neighborhood was built-out by 2002. It is home to Bay Oaks Country Club and Golf Course. The 690-acre site is comprised of 1,100 homes ranging in price from the upper $300s into the millions.
FRIENDSWOOD WEST RANCH The
expansive
766-acre
West
homebuilders offer single-family homes and
the highly rated Friendswood Independent
estates starting from the $450,000s. Plan-
School District.
Ranch
ners have balanced the community with two
Master-Planned community is under devel-
man-made lakes that are surrounded by over
opment along the banks of Clear Creek
100 acres of beautifully landscaped parks
and Chigger Creek. Some of Houston’s top
and nature trails. West Ranch is zoned to
LEAGUE CITY MAR BELLA Mar Bella is just minutes from the popular Kemah Boardwalk and less than 25 minutes from Galveston. This resort community features a series of lakes, recreation center with resort pool, pocket parks and walking trails that meander throughout
the
community.
Students
attend the exclusive Clear Creek Education Village almost in the community’s backyard. Prices vary per builder, lot size, features and floor plan.
THE TOWNSHIP This quaint community is located in the
With deep roots throughout Texas, Houston and the Gulf Coast, Whitley Penn is proud to support the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce. For more than 30 years we have provided Tax, Audit and Consulting Services to clients ranging from high net worth individuals to public companies.
heart of old town League City. Newly built homes feature colonial inspired architectural design, large front porches and oversized home sites. Those children living in The Township attend the acclaimed
Clear
Creek
Independent
School District.
whitleypenn.com 409.948.4406 Austin | Dallas l Fort Worth l Houston | Texas City
20
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
TUSCAN LAKES Tuscan
Lakes
is
a
master-planned
community by the acclaimed Johnson
Corporation. The community is spread
Club with a 27-hole championship course
over 870-acres where thoughtfully sited
designed by Jay Riviere, Dave Marr, and
open spaces and trails enhance the life-
Carlton Gipson; a 1,000-slip marina; confer-
style. Aqueducts as gracefully aged as their
ence center and 250 room resort hotel; and
Italian models, rolling hills and beautiful
a 70,000 square-feet state-of-the-art fitness
flowers fill the environmentally sensitive
center. Early learning and day care facilities,
landscape. Cypress Point, the resort-style
shopping centers, restaurants, medical facil-
recreation center, is accented by a stone
ities and Clear Creek Independent School
fireplace that is a year-round gathering
District schools are nearby.
spot for residents. Upon completion, 1,800 single-family homes and a number
WESTOVER PARK
of multi-family units will have quick
Westover Park is a master-planned commu-
access to commercial and retail areas
nity conveniently located on the south side
outside the gates of Tuscan Lakes. Fami-
of FM 518 in League City, approximately
lies living in the Tuscan Lakes community
three miles west of Interstate 45. Amenities
attend
Independent
include a recreation center with swimming
School District. For more information
pool, a multi-purpose sports field, play-
www.tuscanlakes.com
ground, lake, and park. Children in the
the
Clear
Creek
community attend schools in the Clear
SOUTH SHORE HARBOUR
Photo courtesy of Tuscan Lakes
Creek Independent School District.
South Shore Harbour offers residents a
general purpose room, cafe, library and
variety of recreational opportunities in the
VICTORY LAKES
administrative offices the club house
heart of the Clear Lake Area. Amenities
The Victory Lakes clubhouse is the heart
hosts most community meetings, clubs
include the South Shore Harbour Country
of this family-active community. With a
and organized events. Amenities include
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2500 SOUTH SHORE BLVD. LEAGUE CITY, TX 77573 Located halfway between Houston and Galveston, one mile from Kemah Boardwalk
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
21
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Photo Courtesy of Meridiana
a playground; multipurpose court for
regulation tennis courts; volleyball court;
Creek
basketball
and picnic areas with grills and tables.
www.edgewaterwebster.com
and
other
activities;
two
Independent
School
District.
Charming cottages and homes with age and
CLEAR LAKE SHORES, EL LAGO, TAYLOR LAKE VILLAGE, NASSAU BAY
character are traditionally found in estab-
Pre-owned homes in these charming
early beginnings of the area. Picture perfect
villages
locations,
bungalows with the latest technology as
waterfront, and oversized lots that
well as houses ready for updating are on the
cannot be duplicated in newer devel-
market in these small cities.
offer
premium
lished neighborhoods in Kemah, Seabrook and Webster. The houses appeal to buyers who desire unique homes that reflect the
opments. You will find a variety of home styles from upscale custom and
Whether you chose a new house or a
modern contemporary to transitional
pre-owned home, an apartment or a
home designs in the villages.
townhouse, you will quickly become accustomed to the friendly atmosphere,
KEMAH, SEABROOK AND WEBSTER EDGEWATER Edgewater is the perfect combination
top-notch school districts and the scenic beauty of the beaches and waterways of these coastal villages.
TEXAS CITY
of convenience and seclusion. This Bay
22
Area
waterfront
palm
tree-lined
community
features
LAGO MAR
streets,
35-acre
Lago Mar is a brand-new 2,033-acre
nature preserve, and panoramic views
Master-Planned community on Holland
of Clear Creek. Edgewater is located
Road westv of Interstate 45. Lago Mar
on the new Nasa Parkway Bypass at
is just minutes from Galveston and
Interstate 45 and is serviced by Clear
its many attractions including Moody
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
a
Gardens, Schlitterbahn, Galveston Pleasure Pier and the historical Strand. The Tanger Outlet Mall, near the commu-
NEW LOOK, NEW CLUB
nity’s gated entrance, is a draw for the fun-loving and savvy shoppers. Adven-
The one thing missing is you!
ture Pointe, a 35-acre amusement park, coming to the community, will feature a speedway, mini golf, a water park, midway-styled boardwalk, an outdoor ice skating rink and an outdoor entertainment venue with seating for up to 1,200. Students attend classes in the
THE NEW BAY OAKS EXPERIENCE includes new ways for our Members to connect, dine and play.
Dickinson Independent School District.
• Upgraded dining experience with new decor and stylish finishes
LagoMarinTexasCity.com
• Refreshed interior design scheme throughout the Club • Newly renovated fitness center
SURROUNDING AREAS
Experience for yourself one of the top rated golf and country clubs in the Clear Lake area.
DICKINSON Located on the beautiful Dickinson Bayou,
CONTACT OUR MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR TODAY!
Dickinson is a prime area situated halfway
281.244.3802 | chelsea.turnham@clubcorp.com
between Houston and Galveston Island. Dickinson is conveniently located to great
*Offer may not be combined with any other referral programs or discounts. To qualify as a sponsor, Member must introduce a membership candidate to the Club prior to the candidate having contact with the Club. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. See Club for details. © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved. 34419 0317 EA
shopping, activities, and attractions like NASA’s Johnson Space Center Houston, the Kemah Boardwalk and Moody Gardens. Dickinson residents enjoy a relaxed life in a small community with easy access to all of
JEFF WAGNER
NMLS# 365211 VP National Sales & Support - Sales Development
the attractions of a large city.
Mobile (713) 927-6003 Office (832) 941-1022 jwagner@onetrusthomeloans.com onetrusthomeloans.com/lo/jwagner
FRIENDSWOOD Friendswood, honored as one of “America’s Top 100 Places to Live”, has an easy access to Hobby Airport, NASA, Ellington
CalCon Mutual Mortgage LLC, dba OneTrust Home Loans is an Equal Housing Lender NMLS #46375. 8399 Westview, Suite 150, Houston TX 77055. Branch NMLS# 1308168. SML Mortgage Banker Registration Branch License-Regulated by Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending, License #SML 1308168/46375
Field and the Bay Area. Acclaimed Friendswood ISD and Clear Creek ISD service the
FHA
∙ VA ∙ Conventional ∙ USDA ∙ Jumbo ∙ Construction (5% down)
area and collectively employee thousands of teachers and administrators. West Ranch, the largest master-planned community in Friendswood, features 100 acres of nature trails, parks and recreation areas, a resort-style swimming pool, competition swimming pool and fishing pier. New-home communities include Magnolia Creek, Westover Park, West Lake, Reserve at Clear Creek, and Sterling Creek.
Your Houston Real Estate & Apartment Locating Specialists
281.326.HOME www.InnovativeRealtyKW.com www.DavidTheLocator.com HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
23
In this section Rent or Buy Choosing a Realtor Mortgage Options Home Ownership
24
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
The
HOME FRONT In the Clear Lake and south Houston areas, almost every housing budget can be accommodated. Single-family home buyers can choose eco-friendly designs, new homes in master-planned neighborhoods, luxury residences in gated communities or resale homes in established districts.
In making a decision to buy, build or lease
Model homes in new communities showcase
and will vary by the county, school district
there are several questions every home
the features and options home builders offer.
and MUD where property is located.
shopper should ask. Do you prefer a new
Visiting different model homes is time well
housing development or an established
spent when making a new-home purchase.
neighborhood? What schools best suit your children’s educational needs? Is leasing the wise choice for the short term?
HOME OWNERSHIP NEW HOMES If a new home is your choice, there are
RESALE HOMES Resale homes are usually located in estab-
The architectural styles, floor plans, inte-
lished neighborhoods whose residents are
rior finishes, appliances and other custom
involved in community activities, local
touches vary from builder to builder.
schools, churches, and businesses. These
Some builders work with home-buyers
homes may have many of the amenities
to customize rooms, adjust the square
families already desire or offer the potential
footage of the house, add detail to inte-
for a major transformation by adding custom
riors, special appliance packages and
features to personalize the house. Previous
energy saving features.
owners may have planted additional trees, installed landscaping and made changes to
many outstanding home sites and builders
Whether buying a new home or a resale
in the area. Home sites in subdivisions,
property, home buyers should become
waterfront lots and rural acreage are only
familiar with deed restrictions and home-
Hire a licensed inspector to go through the
a few of the choices in the Clear Lake and
owners association regulations that might be
house and evaluate its condition. The inspec-
south Houston.
in effect. Taxes are another consideration,
tion process determines if the dwelling is
the original structure of the house.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
25
HOME FRONT
structurally sound, with a good foundation
locators can help you select the ideal rental
pets require additional deposits that are
and roof. If repairs are required get several
property. Once you have determined the
refunded when the lease is terminated.
estimates for the cost of the entire project.
area and price range, local experts will give
A good source of referrals is the Clear Lake
you specific information about available
Similar to an apartment, but usually offering
Area Chamber of Commerce.
units and arrange viewing appointments.
more space and amenities, condos and
These services are provided at no charge to
townhomes can also be leased. These prop-
the prospective renter.
erties are usually listed with area Realtors
Remodeling may involve simple modi-
or property management companies. Occa-
fications or require complex changes to the structure of the house. You may
Often,
need to hire a professional contractor to
apartments
achieve your objectives. These companies can paint, move walls, update cabinets, countertops, bathroom fixtures, flooring, add on to the existing structure and more. It is a good idea to get several
nent
newcomers until
residence
desire
executive
their
perma-
becomes
sionally individual owners list their units in area newspapers.
available.
Visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Quality, single-family rental properties can
to contact an apartment locating service or
be difficult to find. A one-year lease is stan-
an area Realtor for suggestions.
dard, and owners may handle their property. Large, upscale homes usually command the
Many multi-family residences have fire-
full market rate, and expect security deposits
places, ceiling fans, built-in microwave
ny’s references. The southern region of
on single-family homes to equal one month’s
ovens, washer/dryer connections, on-site
Houston has an excellent selection of
rent. Renters of single-family homes usually
recreational facilities and covered parking.
quality pre-owned homes.
pay utility bills.
Most require a security deposit, and leases
bids in writing and check the compa-
range from six months to one year. Month-
Renters should always sign a lease for any
to-month leases are available but usually
property they intend to occupy whether it
Most apartment locators maintain a data-
command premium prices. Many apart-
is an apartment or a single-family home.
base of information about area complexes.
ment communities have strict policies
Many apartment complexes use standard
For newcomers planning to rent, apartment
regarding pets. All complexes that allow
leases endorsed by the Texas Apartment
RENTING & LEASING
Choosing a Realtor
The right realtor can save you thousands. Buying or selling a house involves real estate law, title insurance policies, home warranties, home-lending practices, appraisals, inspections, hazard insurance, surveys and other issues; the services of a realtor are highly recommended. Especially for people new to the area, a realtor can save time and money and provide local knowledge. A realtor can swiftly locate homes that fit with your lifestyle, price range, educational needs, and location.
How do you choose the right realtor? First, understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS ® cannot discriminate against someone based on race, religion, gender, handicap, family status or national origin. 26
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Talk to a number of realtors before making your decision, talk to some of their previous clients and review their current and recent listings. You might want to ask the following:
• How long have you worked in real estate?
• Is real estate your full-time job?
• Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers?
• Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood?
• What is the average price of properties that you close?
• How many closings do you have each year?
• Do you work on a team?
• Do you have any designations, certifications, awards or special training?
The Clear Lake Area Newcomer and Relocation Guide is an excellent resource for locating local real estate professionals. More information at HoustonNewcomerGuides.com in the Real Estate section.
Association (TAA) and Houston Apartment Association.
HOMEBUYING NEEDS
Under One Roof
MANAGEABLE, AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLE Many lenders can pre-approve mortgage applications which make it easier to negotiate the purchase contract. To get started, assemble the required loan documents and consult with banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies. Although
home
prices
have
risen
in
Houston, it still ranks as one of the most affordable big cities in the United States for homeownership. Despite a flattening economy, Houston home sales stayed stable in 2017 and even gained momentum toward the end of the year, ultimately setting a record of 79,117 for single-family homes sales closed over the year, according to the Houston Association of Realtors.
Moving is a lot of work. We make finding your new home easy, and with one call you can get it all.
More good news comes in the form of relaxed lending standards that could benefit first-time buyers. In late 2014, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered mortgage corporations, relaxed lending guidelines that were tightened after the national housing crisis that began in 2008. Now, some buyers can get a mortgage
Licensed Realtors Homeowner’s Policy/Renter’s Policy Top Rated Mortgage Lenders Homebuyer Education
with only 3 percent down payment and a
Down Payment Assistance Grants
minimum FICO credit score of 620. Home-
New Checking & Savings Accounts
buyer assistance programs are also offered by various government agencies. Some groups, including teachers, police officers
Visit acutx.org/NewMover | Call (281) 476-3600 | Email NewMover@acutx.org
and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University reported that the Bay Area’s median single-family home price was a
®
very affordable $251,127 in January 2019. Combined with quality schools, excellent medical and recreational facilities, the booming business climate and short commute times to other parts of Houston, making this area a very desirable place to live. The following pages cover the basics of financing a home, along with some special
CUFG Keystone Realty Group, LLC is a full service real estate agency wholly owned by CU Financial Group, LLC. CU Financial Group, LLC d/b/a ACU Insurance Services is a credit union service organization wholly owned by Associated Credit Union of Texas. Keystone Community Development Corp., is a nonprofit corporation associated with Associated Credit Union of Texas and CU Financial Group, LLC. ACU of Texas is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). Membership requires savings account with minimum balance of $1. Subject to approval. CUFG Keystone Realty Group, ACU Insurance Services and Keystone Community Development Corporation are not federally insured by the NCUA.
considerations for unique circumstances in the Clear Lake and south Houston market.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
27
HOME FRONT
HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD? Determining an affordable purchase price
NASA Rocket Launcher
for a home is the essential first step to home ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that Houstonians typically spend about 30 percent of their incomes on housing, so the city overall is right in line with that advice, albeit slightly on the high side. Experts also suggest that household expenses not exceed 43 percent of personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insurance, credit card balances, utilities, food and health care as well as any payments on outstanding loans and leases are expenses, while household income includes salary and
Developed by the Real Estate Center at
payment as its model. A THAI of 1.00 indi-
other declared revenue such as dividends and
Texas A&M University, the Texas Housing
cates that the median household income is
royalties. In the case of high-rises, mid-rises
Affordability Index (THAI) measures the
just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase
and other types of housing where a monthly
ratio of median household income required
the median-priced home. Houston’s most
maintenance fee is charged, that too must be
to buy a median-priced home, using a
recent THAI was an impressive 1.79, higher
considered in the overall expenses.
30-year mortgage with a 20 percent down
than state and national THAI averages.
MORTGAGE OPTIONS Several different types of mortgages are common today. A standard 30-year fixed rate mortgage is the most common way to finance a home; 15-year fixed rate mortgages are another option. The 40-year mortgage has become more popular in some parts of the country where home prices are rising fast, but many experts agree that the tradeoff of a slightly lower monthly payment for much more interest paid over the life of the loan does not make economic sense. For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the mortgage payment, the interest rate and the term of the loan are fixed and fully self-amortizing, which means at the end of the term, the principal has been repaid. The purchase price less the down payment is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing the principal by the number of payments in a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding the interest determines the monthly house payment. Escrow money for taxes and insurance is added to the payments according to the terms of the lender, and the amounts are recalculated annually.
28
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
TAX DEDUCTIONS
financial institutions but today it is common
(AMI) is a loan in which at least one of the
Some home purchase costs are deductible
for credit unions to be community-based,
four components vary. The most common
if you itemize deductions. These costs may
meaning that anyone can use a credit
AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a
include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and
union as their primary financial institution.
variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM
PMI payments. For more information, visit
Members are insured for up to $250,000
interest rate begins low and periodically
irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
per account by the National Credit Union
The
Alternative
Mortgage
Instrument
Administration.
adjusts either up or down within limits based on a pre-specified index. The initial low rate,
BANKS
and therefore, the lower monthly payment,
Banks offer a full range of services that
enables the buyer to meet the income and
usually include mortgages at competitive
debt-ratio requirement.
rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another
DOWN PAYMENT
option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about
The down payment is the cash committed
fees associated with the bank’s services,
toward the purchase of a home. For most
different accounts, minimum balance require-
loans, a down payment of 20 percent of the
ments, ATM charges, availability of funds
purchase price is required to avoid paying
policy, direct deposit and other options.
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), although it is possible to take out a secondary loan to
CREDIT UNIONS
avoid PMI.
Credit unions are a good source to check
More information about credit unions is available from the Cornerstone Credit Union League
at
www.cornerstoneleague.coop
and the Credit Union National Association at www.cuna.org.
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE Homeowner insurance is required by mortgage lenders, and is essential even if a home is paid for. Buyers are typically asked to pay one year of insurance at closing, with premiums included in monthly mortgage payments.
for mortgage loans because they may offer
INTEREST RATES
lower or competitive rates. Historically,
Selecting an insurance company and
Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary
credit unions have been employer-based
determining coverage is the responsibility
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
Family Owned and Operated Approved Auto Repair
the lender.
CLOSING COSTS Typically between 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price of a home, closing costs include related fees such as costs for running credit reports, loan origination, appraisal, survey, title insurance, and discount points paid to lower the interest rate. Closing costs are typically paid by the buyer at the time of closing.
PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is beneficial because it gives sellers a level of assurance that the prospective buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big plus in a competitive market. Pre-approval requires
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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
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HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
29
HOME FRONT
of the buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract to purchase a house is accepted by the seller. The Texas Board of Insurance www.tdi.texas.gov is a valuable source of information. In some fast-transitioning 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
CREDIT REPORTS
and other types of insurance that they may need. In Houston, flood insurance is required or recommended by mortgage
Lenders need your credit report, which is an analysis of
companies in some neighborhoods. Flood-
your credit history over the last seven-to-ten years. Called
plain maps are determined by the Harris
the FICO score, it includes your employment history, your
County Flood Control District, which has
payment activity, the amount you owe, the amount of available credit you’re using, the length of the history, any new credit and other factors. You will be scored anywhere between 301 and 850, with anything over 740 considered an excellent score. Higher scores lead to better loans and lower rates. There are three credit reporting agencies and you
a mapping tool at harriscountyfemt.org.
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS A variety of programs are designed to help first-time buyers, including FHA loans with a 3 percent down payment discussed at the beginning of this article.
may contact them to obtain your credit history. The City of Houston and Harris County also offer homebuyer assistance programs
FREE CREDIT REPORTS You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies once every 12 months. You can request all three reports at once, or space them out throughout the year.
TRANSUNION® 1-877-322-8228 www.transunion.com
EQUIFAX
that can provide down payment assistance and special financing for buyers who meet certain household income and purchase price criteria. The Houston Homebuyer Assistance program website has details
®
1-800-685-1111 www.equifax.com
EXPERIAN® 1-888-397-3742 www. Experian.com
at
www.houstontx.gov/housing.
Other
programs include Southeast Texas Housing Finance
at
www.sethfc.com
and
the
Harris County Down Payment Assistance Program at www.harriscountytx.gov/csd. Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders are also good sources of information about available homebuyer assistance programs.
30
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
www.clearlakearea.com
Your Source FOR COMMUNITY
PARTNERSHIPS, LOCAL JOBS, DEALS, MEMBER NEWS AND REGIONAL ADVOCACY & RESOURCES
@clachamber @clacctx
281.488.7676 1201 E. NASA Pkwy. Houston, TX 77058
@clacctx
Champions for Business Success & Quality of Life in our Community
In this section STAAR STEM/STEAM Public Schools Private Schools Higher Education
32
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
EDUCATION IN CLEAR LAKE When parents consider moving to a new home, one of the most important considerations is the educational opportunities that will be available to their children. The quality of education in the Clear Lake Area is the result of careful planning, commitment and high goals--quality is never an accident.
Parents and students in the Clear Lake
urban schools showed area students score
School Program (MHSP), the Recom-
Area can choose from a wealth of special-
higher on tests, drop out less and are more
mended High School Program (RHSP), and
ized programs that help them to develop
likely to attend college.
the Distinguished Achievement Program
solid skills and cultivate their individual
(DAP). End-of-course (EOC) assessments
interests. Education is an important issue
STAAR
with Clear Lake Area residents – especially
The
of
the STEM curriculum.
EOC exams as they complete each subject,
Academic Readiness (STAAR) measures
with the tests counting as 15 percent of the
a child’s performance, as well as academic
final grade in the courses.
Proximity to NASA has fostered this outlook on education and residents take great pride in their schools. Classes across all grade levels are designed to stimulate talents in the arts and sciences. These include multilin-
State
are mandated. High school students take of
Texas
Assessments
growth, college and career readiness. Results from STAAR calculate annual school and
Texas
district performance ratings.
and
charter receive
schools academic
operate
under
accountability
ratings from the Texas Education Agency All students in grades 3-8 are tested in
and adhere to the same STAAR test
reading and math, with students in specific
requirements as public school districts.
grades tested in science, social studies and
Open-enrollment charter schools have
writing. Grades 3-8 STAAR tests in reading
the flexibility to adapt to the educa-
school,
and mathematics, by law, must be linked
tional needs of individual students for a
educators are “hands-on” in the quality
from grade to grade and to performance
personalized learning environment where
curriculum they provide students throughout
expectations for the English III end-of-
students can achieve more. Select charter
the bay area. Innovative teaching techniques
course assessments.
schools even provide curriculum that
gual programs, vocational education, special education, enrichment programs and dual credit courses. From
pre-school
to
graduate
specializes in a certain field such as the
developed in Clear Lake Area schools have been heralded by educational leaders across
At the high school level, the three grad-
arts, mathematics or science. Some charter
the United States A national comparison of
uation programs are the Minimum High
schools offer students in grades 9-12 the
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
33
E D U C AT I O N
Photo Courtesy Angleton ISD
Photo Courtesy of Brazosport ISD
opportunity to take both high school and
There are several STEM initiatives in Texas
members and spans 103 square-miles, 13
college courses at no cost.
to inspire existing and new programs. The
municipalities, and two counties (Harris and
Texas science, technology, engineering and
Galveston). Governed by a high performing
mathematics (T-STEM) initiative provides
Board of Trustees, Clear Creek ISD prides
a
empower
itself on involving all stakeholders in making
tea.state.tx.us.
teachers, inspire students and advance the
curriculum, finance, and policy decisions. Dr.
Information about STAAR can be found at
stem education. The public-private initia-
Greg Smith, Superintendent, was named Texas
tea.texas.gov/student.assessment/staar.
tive of academies, professional development
Superintendent of the Year in 2012 by the Texas
centers and networks is designed to improve
STEM EDUCATION
Association of School Boards and the 2013
instruction and academic performance in
Superintendent of the Year by the Texas PTA.
STEM, (an acronym for science, tech-
science and mathematics-related subjects at
nology, engineering and math education) is
secondary schools.
For
more
district
information
and
mation,
individual
visit
www.
and
complete
school
infor-
foundational
approach
to
Clear Creek ISD is comprised of 26 elemen-
an interdisciplinary and applied approach that is coupled with hands-on, problem-based learning. Advocates of integrated approaches
to
stem
education
believe
teaching stem in a more connected manner, especially in the context of real-world issues, can make stem subjects more relevant to students and teachers. The goal being to increase the number of students who consider a career in a STEM-related field and to improve college readiness. Educators want to include art in STEM making STEAM. Proponents of STEAM see art as a way of offering more diverse
tary, 10 intermediate, and 7 high schools. Each campus is led by a team of experi-
CLEAR LAKE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
enced and compassionate administrators, teachers and support personnel. CCISD
Clear Creek Independent School District www.ccisd.net • 281-284-0000
is also home to the state’s first Education Village which includes an elementary, intermediate and a high school on one campus.
School
This PK-12 campus includes shared and
District (CCISD) is home to explorers and
multi-use facilities that have been created
adventurers and is “Leading the Way in the
with a community of learners in mind.
The
Clear
Creek
Independent
21st Century.”
CCISD students outperform their statewide
Nestled alongside the NASA Johnson Space
peers on all Texas standardized tests and
Center in Houston and the boating waters
college readiness indicators.
of the Gulf of Mexico, the district proudly
learning opportunities, and better access to
serves the educational needs of more than
STEM programs for all types of learners.
41,000 students.
In addition to its regular educational programs, the District offers comprehensive, award-winning programs in career
Engaging students’ strengths using art activities increases motivation and the probability
Clear Creek ISD is the 29th largest school
and technical education, special educa-
of stem success.
district in Texas, employs nearly 5,000 staff
tion, bilingual education, compensatory
34
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
education and gifted and talented educa-
Dickinson ISD students and staff excel in
tion. The district is equally strong in fine
many areas, with consistent achievements
arts and is known for top quality athletic
noted in local, state and national events and
programs. Support from community and
contests for sports, band, choir, dance team,
outstanding parent teacher association
art contests, FFA, Robotics and many more.
volunteers and booster clubs is exceptional.
The district participates in the state’s largest UIL category for academic, fine arts and
CCISD is recognized for superior finan-
athletic competitions.
cial management. The district especially appreciates its business and community partnerships and their substantial contributions to the quality programs and recognized academic achievements.
Friendswood Independent School District www.myfisd.com • 281-482-1267 The FISD School Board was named 2016 Outstanding School Board of the Year in
Dickinson Independent School District
Region IV and is currently being considered
www.dickinsonisd.org • 281-229-6000
for the top honors at the state level. The Friendswood Independent School District
The Dickinson Independent School District
was established in 1948 and covers 15
offers its 11,000 students a full-range of
square-miles. Fully accredited by the Texas
educational opportunities through the efforts
Education Agency, the district’s curriculum
of more than 1,400 administrators, teachers
emphasizes academic skills, higher academic
and support personnel. The district’s 61
thinking and cooperative learning strategies.
square-miles encompass the city of Dickinson and the unincorporated communities
FISD has six campuses: one K-5 campus, one
of Bacliff and San Leon as well as a portion
K-3, two 3-5 intermediate campus, one 6-8
of League City, La Marque and Texas City.
grade junior high and one 9-12 high school.
Dickinson ISD is a growing district where
UIL participation is high with many state
student enrollment has increased by nearly
winners in the majority of all athletic
4,000 students over the past 10 years. Dick-
programs advancing to the playoffs where
inson’s central location and its “small-town”
many teams reach the top. The District
atmosphere attract families whose members
was awarded the 2014, 2010 and 2009
can easily commute to either the Houston or
Lone Star Cup, which honors a district for
Galveston areas.
top academic and athletic records, and has continued to be in the top three other years.
To accommodate the growing student enrollment, Dickinson ISD opened the Lobit Education Village in August 2016. The campus features Louis G. Lobit Elementary and Elva C. Lobit Middle School. This new campus design provides many opportunities for students and staff with collaborative learning spaces and a large outdoor courtyard with learning stations. Another innovative program which opened this year is a STEM Academy at Barber Middle School. The academy offers 100 fifth grade students from across Dickinson ISD the opportunity to experience innovative science, technology, engineering and math instruction through their core subject areas.
Friendswood High School was named in the “Nation’s Top 1500 High Schools” by Newsweek Magazine. US News and World Report placed the school in the top 30 comprehensive high schools in Texas. Consequently, the many awards its clubs, organizations, sports, and programs receive make FHS a top contender in the State and Nation. In the Academic Decathlon program FHS has won more state championships than any other high school in the nation. The FHS Band and Choir as well as the Friendswood Junior High Band and Choir have won prestigious competitions at all levels. The Drama Department has won
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
35
E D U C AT I O N
Photo Courtesy of Brazosport ISD
more UIL competitions than any other high school group in the State over the past 10 years. In 1987, members of the FISD School Board implemented a Character Ed program. Since then the Westwood
Academic Preschool & Elementary in Clear Lake & Alvin
TWO PROGRAMS ONE LOCATION FULL INCLUSION
For children 6 wks. to 12 yrs. HOURS: Clear Lake 6:30-6:30 Alvin 5:30-7 Part and Full Time Programs Year Round PT, OT and Speech Therapy as well as Music, Spanish, Art and Sign Language Private Kindergarten through 3rd Grade After School Program • Tutorials Special and non special needs children accepted
2 LOCATIONS:
14045 Space Center Blvd. Clear Lake, TX 77062
281-488-0436 851 N. Dilling St. Alvin, TX 77511
281.585.5140 www.distinctabilities.com 36
Elementary was named the first State School of Character and a National School of Character. The FISD philosophy is based on active partnerships between parents, the community and the schools, and a commitment to the realization of each and every student’s potential. Friendswood ISD is rated as one of the most effective and efficient school districts in the state with a below average tax rate. The district has earned the highest award for financial management and is recognized by State Comptroller for financial transparency. La Porte Independent School District www.lpisd.org • 281-604-7000 La Porte ISD is committed to the needs of more than 7,700 students and their families. Nestled along Galveston Bay, La Porte ISD encompasses 55 square-miles in southeast Harris County. The district serves students in the communities of La Porte, Shoreacres and Morgan’s Point as well as small sections of Deer Park and Pasadena. Support from the community helps to give La Porte ISD a special “hometown” feeling in a location just 20 minutes away from the metropolitan Houston area. La Porte ISD has 12 campuses--including one high school, two junior high schools,
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
a sixth grade campus, seven elementary schools and a school of choice—as well as over 1,000 employees. Through a partnership with San Jacinto College, the La Porte ISD/San Jacinto College Center offers additional opportunities to high school dual enrollment students, and the Accelerated College Education (ACE) program allows students to earn their associate degrees along with their high school diplomas. Among the many other quality educational programs and services offered by La Porte ISD are pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, dual language and bilingual education, gifted and talented education, Advanced Placement and Pre-Advanced Placement, special education and career and technical education. Pasadena Independent School District www.pasadenaisd.org • 713-740-0000 Pasadena Independent School District is molding today’s learners into tomorrow’s leaders. The district has championed innovative educational learning initiatives supported by advanced programs and technology driven resources that foster student success. Through positive community and business support, the district provides a menu of post-secondary, technical and specialized opportunities that prepare students for higher education
and adaptable workplace environments. Completing the cycle, many Pasadena ISD alumni make Pasadena their home
CLEAR LAKE PRIVATE & CHARTER SCHOOLS
families in the community.
Odyssey Academy www.odyssey-academy.com
Pasadena ISD is a large urban district
Charter schools were created to increase
employing around 7,650 employees and
the choice of learning opportunities within
serving approximately 55,000 students in 67
the public school system. By creating addi-
schools. The district covers portions of Pasa-
tional educational options for students, law
dena, South Houston, Houston and Pearland
makers believed different and innovative
and offers area residents 36 elementary, 12
learning methods would be created and used,
middle, 10 intermediate, six high schools, and
improving student learning.
after graduation, working and raising their
two schools of choice and two alternative campuses. The district is home to the annual McDonald’s Texas Invitational Basketball Tournament, one of the largest high school tournaments in the country. The tournament has garnered nearly $2 million in proceeds since its inception in 2003, benefiting the Pasadena ISD Education Foundation’s Mini Grant Program. Students at Pasadena ISD meet challenges head on and engage in rigorous curriculum.
With these purposes in mind, Odyssey
evidence showing that young children who participate in high-quality pre-k programs enter school more ready to learn than their peers. OA believes parents who would like to give their children this advantage should have the opportunity to do so. • O dyssey Academy focuses on leadership
skills
from
prekindergarten
through high school using FranklinCovey’s Leader in Me and The 7 Habits. These programs teach 21st century leadership and life skills to students and help to create a culture
Academy has been educating students in the
of student empowerment based on the
greater Galveston County area for 20 years
idea that every child can be a leader.
with great success. The school uses four effective approaches that in combination are unique to the school, and set OA apart from other public school programs:
• Odyssey Academy is a STEAM school. STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics. Teachers focus on these
• Odyssey Academy offers a full day prekin-
subjects to help students develop the crit-
dergarten program for qualifying three
ical thinking and problem solving skills
and four year old children. There is strong
needed to be successful in the 21st century.
The number of students involved in dual credit and Advanced Placement classes continues to grow as part of Pasadena ISD’s commitment to College and Career Readiness. Pasadena graduates have attended some of the top universities in the country like Harvard, Stanford, Princeton and Rice University. The district also offers students opportunities to earn an associate degree, graduate with a diploma, earn college credits, gain professional certification or a license in high-demand areas like engineering, nursing and welding. Pasadena ISD students excel in and outside of the classroom. They participate in an exceptional fine arts program earning the district the distinction of being named one of the best communities for music education. Students compete and excel in music, band, choir, orchestra, visual arts, theatre arts and dance. Pasadena ISD’s exceptional staff members have created an endless cycle of student achievement preparing the students of today to be the leaders of tomorrow.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
37
E D U C AT I O N
• Odyssey Academy offers dual credit and
Life. Choosing the right care for your child
reason parents choose Primrose is because
early college programs. Dual credit allows
is one of the most important decisions you
they know they are leaving their children
students to earn college credits while still
will make as a parent. At the end of the
with qualified, caring people. The manage-
attending high school. Early College is an
day, it comes down to entrusting the care of
ment team members and teachers exceed
innovative program that helps students
your child to a provider that will give you
expectations by creating and maintaining
earn an associate degree while simultane-
peace of mind and give your child the best
trusted relationships with every family they
ously earning their high school diploma.
possible experience.
serve, and share their vision: To deliver the best and most trusted early childhood educa-
The OA community believes that all students can learn and achieve their goals
Primrose Schools is an accredited early
tion and child care services for families
when they set their mind to do it. They
childhood education preschool that offers
across America.
want to see every student achieve and
a premier educational child care experi-
succeed in education and in life!
ence for families across the country. The Primrose Experience starts with fostering
Galveston Campus (PK-12)
a strong connection and partnership with
2412 61st Stree, Galveston, Texas 77551
parents to help build the right foundation
409-750-9289 | 409-684-2366
for future learning and success in school
Bay Area Campus (PK-8)
and in life.
2600 Stanley Drive, El Lago, Texas 77586
For the last sixteen years Mr. and Mrs.
281-326-4555 | 281-545-0590
Papadopulos have been the franchise
info@odyssey-academy.com www.odyssey-academy.com Facebook.com/OdysseyAcademy Twitter.com/OdysseyTweets
owners for Primrose Schools of Pearland, Primrose School of First Colony, and Primrose School of Upper Kirby. They have provided for the Pearland, Sugar Land, and Houston families a nurturing environment
Primrose Schools of Pearland www.primroseschools.com
where children are happy, safe and having
The Primrose Experience: Building the
What makes the Primrose Experience
Right Foundation for Future Learning and
unique? The People and Culture. One
fun while learning.
The Balanced Learning System. The Primrose Balanced Learning System provides high-quality educational experiences that support children’s development as well-rounded individuals. The Balanced Learning curriculum addresses children’s social-emotional, cognitive, creative and physical development as they determine what experiences children need at different age levels. The curriculum is reviewed and updated annually to ensure continued alignment with early learning standards. The Standards of Excellence. Primrose Schools holds schools to high standards of excellence with the implementation of quality assurance and continuous improvement through an internal Service Excellence Assurance program and an external AdvancED Corporation Systems | CONTINUED PAGE 40 >
38
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Primrose Schools of Pearland YOUR CHILD’S PATH TO EDUCATIONAL DISCOVERY BEGINS HERE We believe who children become is as important as what they know. For over 30 years, Primrose Schools has helped empower children like yours to reach their full potential. Our exclusive, time-tested Balanced Learning approach was created from the best early education wisdom of balancing pu r poseful play and nu r tu r ing guidance to encou rage curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Proprietary Curriculum: Research-informed and time-tested Training: We train our people to be the best Equipment: From tables and chairs to toys and books, every piece of equipment is chosen for a purpose
health; and compassion, kindness and life skills continuously throughout the day. Your Child’s Path to Educational Discovery Begins Here Every stage of your child’s education is filled with age-appropr iate, enr iching exper iences led by our passionate, committed and caring staff. Infant to Preschool Classrooms: Inspiring curiosity and wonder in the Primrose Wonder Program. Preschool through Kindergarten Classrooms: Encouraging children to venture out and discover the world around them in the Primrose Venture Program.
Assessment: Highly personalized and tailored to each age level We know that a child’s interests can lead to exciting exploration, discovery and understanding of the world. That’s why our proprietary curriculum integrates language and literacy; science, technology, engineering, creative arts and math (STEAM); social studies; music; physical development and
After School Care for ages 5 to 10: Stimulating continued exploration of a child’s individual interests in the Primrose Explorers Program. F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N C A L L O R V I S I T O N E O F O U R LOCATIONS
FACT:
There are valuable lessons involved in learning how to use a microscope. BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:
Including how to share. SEE BALANCED LEARNING IN ACTION. CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY! Primrose School of Pearland 713.436.4120 | PrimrosePearland.com Primrose School of Pearland Parkway 281.997.8855 | PrimrosePearlandPkwy.com Primrose School of West Pearland 713.436.0404 | PrimroseWestPearland.com
Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2018 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
39
E D U C AT I O N
Accreditation which ensures each school’s adherence to AdvancED Standards for Quality Early Learning Schools.
necessary 21st century twist on a classical
Beach - meeting the needs of nearly 12,500
education that prepares our students for an
students on 19 campuses, setting the standard
ever-evolving world.
for educational excellence with the mission to
St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal School 281-333-1340 | Stesnb.org
To connect with St. Thomas the Apostle
St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal School is located 3 miles from the historic NASA
Episcopal School or to schedule a private
Brazosport ISD provides an individualized
tour of the school please visit us online
learning experience for each child in an
please visit stesnb.org.
environment that is safe and conducive to learning. Through fiscal responsibility, BISD
Johnson Space Center in Nassau Bay in Clear Lake. Its genesis was the settlement of the area around the Manned Spacecraft Center (later the Johnson Space Center) and the establishment of our church, St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church.
graduate each student to be future ready.
HIGHER EDUCATION Brazosport College in Lake Jackson www.brazosport.edu • 979-230-3000
ensures financial strength and provides the resources to equip and maintain quality facilities and educational programming. To support its mission, BISD students from pre-kindergarten to twelfth grade receive a
Brazosport Independent School District
quality education through diverse programs
Like the Space Center, our school strives to
encompasses over 200 square miles of
and superior services.
develop a unique environment that supports
industry, technology, agriculture, ranching,
a spirit of discovery and creative thinking.
service and small business, all thriving on a
Diverse Programs
Our dedicated faculty and staff work collab-
horizon that spans from beachfront to urban
Local industry partners actively support
oratively to design a holistic academic
convenience to rich farmland.
elementary through high school robotic programs along with NASA supported
program that cultivates our students’ natural inquisitiveness while also challenging them
The district serves eight communities - Clute,
rocket engineering opportunities.
to be thoughtful scholars and culturally
Freeport, Jones Creek, Lake Jackson, Oyster
is home to the number one SystemsGo
competent leaders. Our program is that
Creek, Richwood, Quintana and Surfside
Goddard Level of Rocketry Program in the
BISD
PRE-K 3 THROUGH 5TH GRADE
ST. THOMAS
THE APOSTLE
EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
Modernizing the Classical Education for 21st Century Learning
EXPANDING MINDS. ENGAGING HEARTS.
St. Thom as th e Ap o s tl e Ep i s co p a l S ch o o l i s an el emen tary sc h ool for c h i l dren of al l bac kg roun ds an d fai t hs , located near N AS A' s Jo h n s o ns S p a ce Cen ter . We are expan di n g our i n teg rati on of c l assroom tec h n ol og y and lever aging br a i n -b a s ed l ea r n i ng s tr a tegi es to desi g n c urri c ul um th at h ol i sti c al l y devel ops our studen ts to be vir tuous leade r s a nd gl o b a l ci ti zens . P r o gr a m s i n c l ude dai l y l esson s i n Span i sh , th e fi n e arts, Si n g apore ma t h, and recess ever y d a y i n o u r p a r k -l i k e p l a ygr oun d.
18300 UPPER BAY ROAD, NASSAU BAY, TX. | 281-333-1340 | hello@stesnb.org
40
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
nation! At 28,500 feet of flight, the student
Stephen F. Austin Elementary, in its
designed, built and managed rocket went
fourth year as a School of Choice, is a
higher and farther than of all other school
dedicated elementary STEM (Science,
rocketry programs in the U.S.
Technology,
Engineering
and
Math)
campus for grades K-6. BISD also offers robust Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs in the areas
Three Elementary Campuses to Pilot
of construction, health, finance, industry,
Career-Focused Dow STREAM Labs
welding, culinary, floral design, with more
Thanks to a generous donation from Dow
than 1300 certifications being earned by
Texas Operations, elementary students in
students this past school year. In partner-
BISD will have opportunity to gain knowl-
ship with Brazosport College, the district
edge and skills for future careers through
offers an additional 12 dual credit courses
engaging
in Career and Technical Education (CTE)
STREAM labs that offer leading hands-on
pathways. Students who meet entrance
curriculum from provider Pitsco Education.
requirements at BISD high schools, are also
The three schools –A.P. Beutel Elementary,
coursework in all 19 schools with the three
able to enroll in more CTE based pathways.
Stephen F. Austin STEM Academy and
high schools offering Advanced Placement
Freeport Elementary – are outfitted with
(AP) classes and extensive Dual Credit college
programs
in
newly
created
Two Schools of Choice
cross-curricular STREAM (science, tech-
Brazos Success Academy – a 9-12 grade
nology, reading, engineering, arts, math)
campus that offers students who are on track
programs for students in Grades K-6.
for graduation, an alternative to a traditional
courses in a partnership with Brazosport College. Along with these possibilities, BISD also offers extensive services for gifted students
high school model through both face to face
Challenging and Rigorous Coursework
under the ‘SEARCH’ (Seeking Excellence
and online instruction.
BISD
through Ability, Responsibility, Creativity &
offers
challenging
and
rigorous
Brazoria County chooses Brazosport College Online Degree Opportunities | Affordable Education
www.brazosport.edu | 979.230.3000
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
41
E D U C AT I O N
Honor Program) program, for students in grades K-8. Unique Opportunities All BISD students have classroom access to Chromebooks with those in grades 6-12 receiving a district purchased Chromebook to provide students 24/7 access to their assignments, homework, online textbooks, tutorials, and other educational resources. These digital devices enable the teachers to differentiate their lessons both in terms of how they teach and how the students are expected to demonstrate their learning. All BISD campuses offer a wide range of extracurricular activities to meet the varying needs of all students. From elementary campus clubs to secondary UIL opportunities that include nationally recognized and award winning fine arts programs along with exceptional athletic programs in grades 7 through 12, there is a place for every student to belong. Brazosport ISD is made up of kind, caring and compassionate employees and community members who work together to ensure that students have a wide range of high-quality programs to engage every learning style and assist in tapping into their unique gifts.
42
College of the Mainland 409-938-1211 • www.com.edu
top-notch instructors and providing stateof-the-art facilities.
College of the Mainland is a learning-centered, comprehensive community college dedicated to student success. At College of the Mainland they believe that everyone deserves an education. As a learning-centered institution, they strive to boost the intellectual and economic prosperity of the diverse communities we serve. Be sure to take a moment to browse their website and review their College District’s Resume regarding enrollment, cost, financial aid, student success and degrees and certificates awarded.
Students can choose from a number of options to propel them into a career or transfer to a four-year university. From associate degrees to technical certificates, San Jac is flexible to suit the needs of every student and their individual goals.
San Jacinto College 281-998-6150 • www.sanjac.edu Surrounded by monuments of history, industries and maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has been helping students succeed for more than 50 years. With four campuses close to home or work, we serve more than 30,000 students, all of whom benefit from a student support system that maps out a pathway for success. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, San Jacinto College is committed to being a leader in educational excellence, employing
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
San Jacinto College is powerfully connected to the business communities throughout Houston. This gives our students big opportunities in the hottest industries, from aerospace to healthcare, energy to education, IT to international commerce. San Jac stays on top of emerging careers and adds new programs to meet these needs. Recent additions include degrees in Occupational Therapist Assistant and Invasive Cardiovascular Technology. San Jac recognizes the importance of maritime careers to the city of Houston and its economy. The new Maritime Technology and Training Center opened in 2016 to accommodate the growing need for skilled mariners across the region and provide students with United States Coast Guard-approved and internationally-recognized training. In addition to quality education, San Jac provides a lively college experience,
complete
athletics,
has flourished in the midst of the upper
UHCL has a student population of close
renowned arts and entertainment, and active
with
competitive
Gulf Coast’s international petrochemical
to 9,000 students during the fall and spring
student organizations.
industry, Texas Medical Center and NASA
semesters, with many of them enrolled in
Johnson Space Center. UHCL’s more than
graduate courses. With more than 80 under-
68,000 alumni have pursued diverse oppor-
graduate and graduate degree programs,
tunities and share distinguished records of
including three doctoral programs, UHCL
achievement in business, industry, educa-
encourages students to cultivate talents,
tion and healthcare.
strengths and interests that help fulfill career
Beamer Street • 281-998-6150 - West of I-45, the South Campus serves the Pasadena Independent School District and a portion of Clear Creek ISD. Lee College, Baytown • 281-425-5611 - Lee College’s main campus occupies 40 acres near downtown Baytown. The school has an enrollment of over 9,000 total students, with approximately 5,800 of them enrolled full-time.
ambitions. In addition, UHCL assists more UHCL partnered with the City of Pearland
than 500 veteran students in reaching their
to create UHCL Pearland Campus, a 30,956
educational goals and offers support through
square-foot facility designed to connect
its Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Office of
Pearland/Brazoria area students to quality
Veteran Services.
bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Classes officially began at UHCL Pearland
Expansion continues for the university with
281-283-7600 • www.uhcl.edu
Campus in 2010.
the opening of the STEM and Classroom
University of Houston-Clear Lake represents
For more than four decades, the university
that fosters hands-on training experiences,
a dynamic force in modern education,
has filled a vital niche in higher education,
and the Recreation and Wellness Center, an
offering
and
specializing in junior and senior under-
81,709-square-feet facility that serve as the
doctoral students a close-knit, academic
graduate and graduate-level programs. In
home for the Exercise and Health Sciences
community, enhanced by a global perspective.
2011, UHCL gained approval from the
program and Fitness and Human Perfor-
state to add freshman- and sophomore-level
mance program and recreational activities
A partnership-oriented, community-minded
courses to its roster and welcomed its first
for students, faculty and staff. At UHCL
and student-centered university, UH-Clear Lake
freshman class in fall 2014.
Pearland
undergraduate,
graduate
Building, a 121,575-square-foot building
Campus,
a
69,539-square-foot
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
43
E D U C AT I O N
Health Sciences and Classroom Building is
style, along with vendor-approved learning
instructors together synchronously in a
scheduled to open in spring 2019.
tools and expert instruction. They have
virtual real-time classroom environment.
trained more than 30 million people to Specific programs such as the Bachelor of
This program provides students all of the
make the most of technology, and they
Science in Mechanical Engineering and
benefits of being in a dynamic interactive
feel like they are just getting started.
Master of Science in Biotechnology help
classroom – enabling students to study from work, home or a New Horizons center.
students develop the necessary skills to
Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers
thrive in a changing job market. These and
an extensive selection of vendor-authorized
other academic programs complement the
training and certifications for top tech-
core disciplines in the Colleges of Busi-
nology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco,
ness, Education, Human Sciences and
CompTIA and VMWare. Being an autho-
Humanities, and Science and Engineering.
rized partner ensures that the students have
The
New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based lab solutions as well, allowing students to access their labs anytime and anywhere. state-of-the-art,
fully-configured
the highest quality training materials and
live lab environment provides students
For more information about UHCL, visit
train on the latest products and technologies
hands-on access to the systems and applica-
www.uhcl.edu or call 281-283-7600.
available. Courses provided fall into cate-
tions taught in the classrooms, empowering
gories like desktop applications, technical
them to learn on their own schedules.
New Horizons - Your Partner in Training
training and professional development.
www.nhhouston.com / 713-552-1414
A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons Flexible Training Approach Based on
is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for
For more than three decades, New Hori-
Learner Needs - They understand that
zons Computer Learning Centers has been
not everyone’s learning needs or preferred
a leader in IT training. With over hundred
methods are the same. Therefore, their
locations worldwide, they have grown to
flexible training approach gives the ability
become the largest independent training
to customize dedicated classes to satisfy
company in the industry. Their career
specific needs. Learning methods include
and corporate training solutions help turn
Online
training,
benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager
ambitious personal and business goals into
private classes and Online LIVE. Online
surveys regarding the improved performance
results. They use varying training methods
Live
and productivity of their employees imme-
for virtually every schedule and learning
from learning by bringing students and
44
ANYTIME,
removes
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
on-site
geographical
boundaries
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
diately following New Horizons training.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
45
In this section
Moving Companies Airports Utilities International Relocation
46
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
RELOCATION INFORMATION
You can take care of many things before you make a major move. But, knowing who to call and when, where to go, and how to get there is a big part of putting down roots. Relax, this chapter will help you along the way. Obtaining as much information as possible in advance about Houston, Galveston County and Harris County will make your move much smoother, especially if you are relocating from out of state. To help get you started, the following pages offer some general tips on Houston’s basic services. More helpful information on moving is at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
for items you may have purchased overseas. Also consider the size of your new space: will it be larger or smaller than the home you’re leaving? If you’re a United States citizen who is moving back from overseas, then you might have many items in storage, so you’ll also need to plan the logistics of getting these to your new home.
MOVING COMPANIES
Most companies give free estimates based on distance and the weight of household contents. Some moving companies include the costs of packing materials in their bid while others break out supplies separately. Packing services, fuel charges, wait time and temporary storage costs may vary considerably so be sure to ask about all charges.
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 busiest. At the other extreme, Houston’s global economy draws newcomers from around the world, and there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when moving from overseas. If your overseas move is work-related, find out how much of the expense will be covered. As a general rule, many experts recommend scaling your belongings down to essential items and those with emotional value. Find out about import fees and duty costs, especially
TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES
Moving companies offer three types of estimates: the binding estimate, non-binding estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate. The binding estimate lists all items to be shipped and the required services on the estimate form, and the price quoted is the binding price. Every charge is itemized, so that if an item is added or deleted, it is easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving
company must also specify the length of time the price quote is in effect, which is usually 60 days. This type of estimate does not require additional payment over the amount of the estimate. The non-binding estimate, 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 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. The third type of estimate, called the not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best. The mover gives a binding estimate, then weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all movers if they offer this type of service.
MORE CONSIDERATIONS Be aware that many moving companies fall behind schedule, so consider hiring a moving company that will guarantee a pickup and
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
delivery date. Make sure those dates are
PET LICENSING / LEASH LAWS
in the contract. Pick-up and delivery dates
In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing license tags and/or on a leash can be impounded. Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Boosters are given one year after the initial vaccination, and pets will need to be vaccinated at one to three year intervals depending on local requirements. Laws regulating the number of pets and exotic animals allowed per household vary from city to city.
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 valuable. Tax deductions may apply to your move so keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S. at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov, or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
VOTER REGISTRATION To vote in Texas, you must be at least 18 years of age and a United States citizen. You must submit a voter registration form; to register or obtain information in Harris County, call 713-368-2000 or Galveston County call 409-766-2280. You will need photo identification in Texas when voting in person
TRANSPORTATION DRIVING IN TEXAS The laws that regulate driving differ from state to state. Newcomers should become familiar with all of the laws to assure their safety and be in compliance while driving on the streets and highways. These are a few of the laws that newcomers should know:
Houston, Galveston, Clear Lake, Brazoria, Ft Bend, Waller, Montgomery, Chambers and Liberty Counties.
We offer a full array of same day services.
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281-935-4048 • Toll Free 877-527-5737 Texans Serving Texans, 24 Hours a Day!
48
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
• The driver and front seat passenger must wear seat belts. • Children who are younger than eight years of age or less than 4 feet nine inches tall must be secured in an approved car seat. • Highway traffic has the right-of-way and need not yield to entering traffic. • It is legal to turn right on red after coming to a complete stop. To obtain a copy of Texas Motor Vehicle Laws, write to the General Services Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Box 4087, Austin, TX 78773. To obtain a Texas driver’s license go online to www. txdps.state.tx.us.
TEXAS LAW PROHIBITS TEXTING WHILE DRIVING The statewide ban on texting and driving went into effect on September 1, 2017. Drivers can still use phones to talk handsfree, to play music, operate a GPS, report a crime and seek emergency help. Drivers getting a ticket for violating the no-texting law face a misdemeanor charge and a fine between $25 to $99; penalties can be as much as $200 for repeat offenders. Drivers convicted of texting and driving who causes serious injury or death to others face a fine of up to $4,000 and up to one year in jail.
VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND INSPECTION Vehicles in Texas are issued a blue-bordered registration sticker that serves as a combined proof of registration and inspection with one expiration date (two steps, one sticker). Passing vehicle inspection will be a requirement to renew a registration. Vehicles must be registered within 30 days of relocating to Texas. In Harris County, register a vehicle at the Clear Lake Courthouse Annex Building, 16603 Buccaneer, 281-486-7250. Registration requirements include the vehicle’s title, proof of liability insurance, drivers license and cash, check, or money order to cover various registration and license fees.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
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METRO offers reliable express service to and from the Clear Lake Area. For bus schedules and Park & Ride locations go online to www.ridemetro.org or call METRO at 713-635-4000.
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Delivers FREE* email, text and/or phone call alerts to up to 15 people when your power goes out! • Provides an estimated time that the problem will be fixed • Notifies everyone when the problem has been resolved • Available to CenterPoint Energy electric delivery customers in greater Houston
AIRPORTS BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL AIRPORT 2800 N Terminal Rd., Houston, TX 77032 281-230-3100 Located in north Houston, Bush Intercontinental offers nonstop or direct service to hundreds of cities throughout the United States and around the world. It serves more than 40 million passengers annually, including about 10 million international passengers.
WILLIAM P. HOBBY AIRPORT 7800 Airport Blvd., Houston, TX 77061 713-640-3000 Fifteen minutes north of the Clear Lake Area, Hobby Airport serves more than 10 million domestic passengers each year. International flights to Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean also fly out of Hobby. The 32nd busiest airport in the United States for total passengers, Hobby will continue to be a major public airport and corporate aviation center for years to come.
ELLINGTON AIRPORT 510 Ellington Field, Houston, TX 77034 713-847-4200 Commissioned in 1917, Ellington Airport is situated near the NASA/Johnson Space Center. The airport supports U. S. military operations and general aviation tenants. The annual Wings Over Houston Airshow is held each fall at the field. The Lone Star Flight Museum (LSFM) recently moved from Galveston to its new $38 million state-of-the-art home at Ellington Airport. LSFM is recognized as one of the top aviation museums in the United States. The 130,000 square foot
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*Standard text messaging fees may apply.
facility houses aircraft displays, interactive exhibits, a library, STEM hands-on educational classrooms and labs, as well as the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame.
on Clear Lake City Water Authority visit www.clcwa.org.
DISTRICTS (MUDS) In Texas, MUDs often provide water, sewer
UTILITIES ELECTRIC POWER Retail Electric Providers (REPs) compete to sell electricity, which may result in lower prices, and added customer services. The Public Utility Commission (PUC) recommends the three “C’s” before selecting a provider: contact, compare, and choose. Allow several days for the order to process. If establishing service for a new home or building, a permit or inspection may be required. Select electricity, natural gas, local phone and long distance, cable or satellite television, and high-speed Internet services at www.HoustonNewcomerConnect.com.
and drainage services in newer neighborhoods. MUDs play an important role in the region’s ability to develop viable, new neighborhoods without services from municipal water departments. MUD taxes are paid annually along with your city, county and school taxes through a mortgage or directly to the district.
ENERGY STAR ENERGY STAR certified homes use less energy than homes built to the Texas residential building code, are third-party tested, and provide homeowners with a better lifestyle for less money. Many of the leading builders in the Houston area build ENERGY STAR certified homes. CenterPoint Energy’s ENERGY STAR for New Homes Program,
CABLE/SATELLITE AND INTERNET
is just one of their programs that supports
Depending on where you live there may be other services available. Television programming is provided by:
utility in the Houston-area, CenterPoint
• Comcast, www.comcast.com
energy-efficiency efforts. As the regulated Energy owns and maintains the electric delivery system as well as sells natural gas. Visit CenterPointEnergy.com to learn more.
• AT&T, www.att.com
FORWARDING MAIL
• DISH, Network, www.dish.com
To forward mail submit a change of address
• Direct TV, www.directtv.com
at moversguide.usps.com. Your change of address request will be processed and you
WATER AND SEWER
will get an e-mail confirmation. Local Post
Water and sewer services are provided by the city in which you live. For more information
Offices also have free change of address packets with other helpful moving tips.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
NEWSPAPERS
SENIOR CITIZEN GROUPS
LULAC Council -
Bay Area Citizen ....................281-378-1920
American Association of
NASA Area............................281-482-1172
Galveston Daily News ............409-683-5260
Retired Persons.......................281-474-5272
Veteran’s Outreach Center.......713-523-0884
Houston Chronicle .................713-220-7171
Bay Area Community Center..281-326-2955
Houston Business Journal ......713-688-8811
CARE-A-VAN
CIVIC CLUBS
Houston Press ........................713-280-2400
(Transportation)......................713-944-1000
Pasadena Citizen ...................713-477-0221
Carmeliters.............................281-488-1085
CLUBS Bay Area Personal Watercraft Association............832-303-0040 Clear Lake Marina Association.............................281-334-1511 Texas Association of Single Sailors..........................713-765-8952 Texas Mariners Cruising Assn.......................................281-532-0936 TOPPS...................................281-326-6611 USRC Rowing Center.............281-532-1518
NEWCOMER SERVICES Welcome Neighbors Newcomers.............................281-480-9040 Welcoming Neighbor..............281-890-8050 Houston Newcomer Guides....713-952-1916
POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS Bay Area Republican Women’s Club........................281-480-4789 Harris County Democratic Party......................................713-739-7785
Club Emeritus (Social Gatherings).................281-474-5430 East Harris Co. Senior Citizen....................................281-479-4232 Food for Seniors Interfaith Caring Ministries....................281-332-3881 Health South Rehabilitation Hospital..................................281-286-1500 Kemah Kronies (50 Up)..........281-334-2401 Meals on Wheels, Bay Area.....281-326-3336 Neighborhood Center Bay Area................................281-282-6074 Retired Federal Employees National Association...............281-326-2494 Senior Friends.........................281-338-3157 Senior Learning Center...........281-316-0768 Sheltering Arms - Houston......713-956-1888
SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Auxiliary Unit 554, League City............281-332-8733 Unit 490, Ellington Field........281-481-1179 Animal Shelter - SPCA...........281-339-2086
Harris County Republican Party......................................713-838-7900
Animal Shelter -
League of Women Voters........281-648-0929
Auxiliary to Sons of Union
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS ABWA, League City...............281-334-2101 Council of Business Women...281-482-2259 National Space Society............281-486-4747 Professional Engineers Bayou Chapter........................281-474-2640
Special Pals.............................281-559-7387
Bay Area................................281-333-0707 Clear Lake City Civic League..281-488-5590 Daughters of the American Revolution..............281-337-5228 Elks Lodge, Kemah.................281-334-2322 Galveston Bay Foundation......713-332-3381 Gulf Coast Conservation........713-626-4234 Jaycees, Clear Lake/ Pasadena................................713-477-2875 Kiwanis Clubs, Clear Lake Area......................281-480-2246 Literary Advancement............281-282-6032 Optimist Club, Clear Lake.......281-244-5201 Parents Without Partners........281-478-5449 Pilot Club of the Bay Area......281-488-2985 Shriners Arabia Temple...........713-664-3437 Sierra Club (Club Line)...........713-895-9309
COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE Child Guidance Center, Houston.................................281-282-6062 Crime Stoppers.......................281-480-8477 Emergency Medical Corps .....281-488-0022 Red Cross...............................281-282-6039 Texas Dept. of Public Safety (DPS)...........................281-517-1200 United Way Service Center.....281-282-6000
Veterans of Civil War..............281-334-2631
DEVELOPMENTAL
Bay Area Council of
Disabilities
Drugs & Alcohol....................281-280-0800
The Arc of Texas.................1-800-252-9729
Big Brothers & Sisters.............281-282-6033
The Arc of Texas,
Catholic Charities...................281-282-6076
Bay Area Arc Chapter.............281-484-7447
Convention & Visitors Bureau.281-474-9700
Arc of Texas, Unit #1688 –
Crossroads (Community
Special Olympics....................281-388-1161
Partnership for Youth).............281-282-6030
Roommates Discovered ..........281-468-5663
TOASTMASTERS
Depelchin Children’s Center....281-282-6062
CLACC Toastmasters.............281-488-7676
Disabled American Veterans.................. ..............................................713-794-3665
Clear Lake..............................281-922-4468
Assistance League of the
SOCIAL CLUBS Bay Area Singles Club -
Ed White Youth Center...........281-474-2853
Activity Hot Line....................281-480-2727
Family Service
Bay Area Welcome
NETWORKING GROUPS
Center............. 713-861-4849/281-282-6025
Neighbors Club.......................281-488-2111
Clear Lake Networking...........281-332-3595
Finally Home Pet Rescue........281-557-2344
Bay Area Writers League........281-666-4595
League City Chamber of Commerce Bus. Assoc.............281-338-7339
Habitat for Humanity......... 281-286-HOME
Bridge, Bay Area ....................281-488-2149
Houston Bar Assoc.................713-759-1133
Bridge, Clear Lake..................281-480-1911
Spaceland...............................281-326-5834
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Garden Club, League City.......281-332-9528 Garden Club, Nassau Bay.......281-335-1031 Gem & Mineral Society..........281-481-1591 Mothers of Multiples..............281-480-8602
HOBBIES American Needlepoint Guild..281-482-4994 Clear Creek Gun & Archery Range........................281-337-1722
HOMEOWNERS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS
Clear Lake Amateur
Association of Clear Lake.......281-333-4177
Clear Lake Area Ski Club........281-286-9672
Bal Harbor, Nassau Bay..........281-333-5168
Clear Lake Fencing Club.........281-474-2853
Bay Area Property
Clear Lake Tennis Assoc.........281-536-7976
Management ..........................281-333-4177
Houston Rowing Club.............281-334-3101
(includes Bay Forest, Brook Forest, Brook Glen, Bay Front, Middlebrook)
University
Park,
Radio Club.............................281-488-2913
Lakeview Quilters Guild.........281-333-2459 Model Rocket Club.................713-666-5559
Clear Lake Community Association
Seabrook Sailing Club.............281-474-5827
& Clear Lake
Space City Cycling Club..........281-332-5901
Recreation Center...................281-488-0360
Sport Divers of Houston.........281-338-1611
(includes University Green)
Texas Ice Stadium
Community Management
(Ice Skating)...........................281-488-7979
Specialists ..............................281-480-2563 (includes Bay Oaks, Bay Point, Brookwood, Northfork, Sterling Knoll) Nassau Bay Homeowners Association.............................281-333-2570
Texas Rock (Climbing) Gym...281-338-7625 USSA Sailing Academy..........281-532-1518
LION & LIONESS CLUBS Bay Area Lions.......................281-807-9635
SPORTS
Clear Lake Lions....................713-263-2637
Adult Baseball........................281-578-8486
League City Lioness................281-830-8213
Adult Basketball.....................281-338-4876
League City Lions...................281-332-5005
Youth Golf (ages 6-17)............281-486-7254
League City Evening Lions.....281-332-4131
Bay Area Roller Hockey..........713-472-3711 Bay Area Youth Soccer...........713-455-8890 FFPS (ages 4-18).....................281-347-5425 Indoor Soccer.........................281-316-0377 Soccer - Division One.............281-484-4710
Bayside Little League..............281-474-9481 League City Parks & Recreation..............................281-338-4875
Sand Volleyball League
Nasa Area Little League.........281-480-4338
(9-17)......................................281-316-3450
NASA Area Pony League.......281-480-8105
South Shore Juniors................281-482-5678
YMCA...................................281-486-9622
SWIMMING
ROTARY CLUBS
Clear Lake Community Association & Clear Lake Recreation
League City............................281-332-5634 Seabrook................................281-474-4524
Center....................................281-488-0360
Space Center...........................281-333-4077
Edgar A. Smith
SCOUTING
Family YMCA........................281-480-2605 Space City Aquatic Team
713.948.5700
Member EQUAL HOUSING
LENDER
TexasCitizensBank.com
LITTLE LEAGUE
YMCA...................................281-486-9622
Clear Creek Swim League.......281-486-8438
Locally Owned Alternative for Owner Managed Businesses
Boy Scout Shop......................281-282-6067
(SCAT)...................................281-461-7920
Boy Scouts of America............281-282-6067
Williams Indoor Pool
Girl Scouts, Bay Area Council.713-659-8111
Recreation .............................281-486-2626
Girl Scouts, San Jacinto
YMCA...................................281-486-9622
Council...................................281-282-6077
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HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
51
I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
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. 52
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.
BANKING 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.
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Credit Card 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 www.haaonline.org • Prices for apartments are based on apartment size and number of bedrooms Rates typically include basic utilities (ask 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 to find homes. • Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.
TAXES
Private Schools
State of Texas
• HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax and property tax only.
• Houstonprivateschools.com
Internal Revenue Service Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov • Federal income tax for most workers is filed on April 15 of each year. • T here are numerous rules and regulations for expatriates, the following are resources to get you started. Your employer can also assist you.
• Privateschoolreview.com • There are a variety of independent and faith-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
EDUCATION Day Care: www.childcarecenter.us
International Baccalaureate program and might be better suited for children planning to later attend university outside the 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.
RELOCATOIN Immigration VISA Most questions are answered on the United States Citizenship & Immigration web sites
• Schools vary widely, make several trips
below. Contact your Consulate about your
with and without your child at different
country’s requirements.
times of the day. Ask for referrals.
General How Do I Guides:
Public Schools
• www.uscis.gov
PK-12 Texas Education Association:
New Homes/Builders/ Communities
tea.texas.gov
• www.uscitizenship.info
• Required for children 6-18 years of age
Employment Visas:
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
in USA.
• www.travel.state.gov
• Child’s birth certificate, passport, social security number, transcript, doctor’s
• www.uscis.gov
statement.
Green Card:
• The Houston area has excellent public schools which serve students from Pre-K
www.uscis.gov/greencard
with the homebuilder when you arrive.
through 12th grade.
Permanent Residents:
• You can research individual school
www.uscis.gov
districts, schools, ratings and test scores
Schedule appointment with USCIS officer:
at the Texas Education Association web site.
infopass.uscis.gov
HEALTHCARE Affordable Care Act www.healthcare.gov • If you are relocating to the United States 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.
•E lementary school (grade 1 through 5 or 6), Middle school or junior high (up to grade 8 or 9), High school or senior high (up to grade 12).
College www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools
Pets Entry Requirements: www.dshs.state.tx.us • Dogs & cats must be vaccinated by 4 months of age followed by booster shots every couple of years. • Pets not wearing license tags and/or leashed can be impounded.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
53
PLACES OF
WORSHIP
Half of Americans have looked for a new church or place of worship, most because they moved. If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should easily be able to find a spiritual home in the Clear Lake Area. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, and access to groups with common interests. If you are looking to make new friends, a congregation might be the perfect place to find them. *
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Clear Lake United Methodist Church 16335 El Camino Real • Houston, TX 77062; 281-488-5110 • www.clearlakemethodist.org Clear Lake United Methodist Church is a dynamic place of worship and connection offering services and groups for people of all ages and experiences. Services offered include Traditional worship, Contemporary worship, and a Spanish language service. While the Traditional worship features choirs, a pipe organ, and orchestral arrangements, the Contemporary worship features a praise band and a more casual tone. Whatever worship style you prefer, we have you covered. On Sunday mornings, you also have an opportunity to study the Bible and dig deeper with a group of your peers in a Connect Group that varies by age group and topic. Through its various ministries, Clear Lake United Methodist Church is focused on the development of children, the welfare of the surrounding community, and meaningful discipleship. ANGLICAN
INDEPENDENT FUNDAMENTAL
St. Paul’s Anglican Church ...............................................281-480-1414
Clear Lake Bible Church....281-488-0037
ASSEMBLY OF GOD
Living Way Church...............281-332-8535
Christ’s Church Clear Lake ...............................................281-488-1775
GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
Faith Temple, League City ...............................................281-332-8474
Grace Community...............281-488-0055
St. John the Theologian Orthodox ...............................................281-554-7223
Join us for traditional worship, contemporary worship, y un servicio en español.
Congregation Shaar Hashalom ...............................................281-488-5861
We’re changing our church and our community through worship, connection, and service.
Baybrook Area Baptist.........281-996-1316
Jewish Ctr. of CL/Temple Beth Tikvah ...............................................281-286-1717
clearlakemethodist.org
Bay Forest Baptist.................281-488-6158
LATTER DAY SAINTS/MORMAN
Clear Lake Baptist................281-488-3767
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.............................281-488-4406
BAPTIST Bay Area Baptist...................281-992-5005 Bay Area First Baptist............281-332-2133
First Baptist Church, Seabrook ...............................................281-474-3281
JEWISH
@clearlakeumc
Nassau Bay Baptist...............281-333-3844
Re-Org. Church of Jesus Christ ...............................................281-338-1842
Texas Avenue Baptist...........281-332-2599
LUTHERAN
University Baptist Church ............................................. 281-488-8517
Gloria Dei, Nassau Bay........281-333-4535
CATHOLIC St. Bernadette.......................281-486-0337
Lakeside Lutheran Church ...............................................281-334-3163
St. Clare of Assisi...................281-286-7729
METHODIST
...............................................281-389-9071
St. Mary’s, League City........281-332-3031
Abundant Life United Methodist ...............................................281-286-1515
Southshore Church, Kemah
Bay Harbour United Methodist................. ...............................................281-334-1100
PENTECOSTAL
St. Paul’s, Nassau Bay..........281-333-3891
CHRISTIAN Bay Area Christian...............281-480-5683 Church of Christ, C.L.C ...............................................281-486-9350
House of Prayer....................281-488-4439
Clear Lake African Methodist Episcopal Church................281-286-2731
Gateway Community Church ...............................................281-286-1515 Christ in You...........................281-474-2491 Grace Community Church ...............................................713-333-3844 Living Word Church of the Bay Area
...............................................281-538-1751
Greater Life Church ............281-316-6939 Life Tabernacle Clear Lake ...............................................281-280-8227
Church of Christ, League City ...............................................281-332-1015
Clear Lake United Methodist.................... ............................................. 281-488-5110
Church of Christ, Seabrook ...............................................281-532-1038
League City United Methodist ...............................................281-332-1557
Clear Lake Chinese Church ...............................................281-338-1929
Seabrook United Methodist ...............................................281-474-2851
Hope Christian Reformed ...............................................281-488-0900
NAZARENE
Clear Lake Presbyterian......281-488-6731
Taylor Lake Christian............281-474-2709
Nasa Church of the Nazarene ...............................................281-486-9581
Good Shepherd Church.....281-332-2311
EPISCOPAL
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Bay Area New Life................281-461-8350
Agape Christian Clear Lake ...............................................281-332-5599
Webster Presbyterian...........281-332-1251
St. Christopher, League City ...............................................281-332-5553 St. Thomas the Apostle........281-333-2384
Clear Creek Community Church ...............................................281-338-5433
United Pentecostal Church of Seabrook. ...............................................281-474-3515
PRESBYTERIAN Bay Area Presbyterian.........281-280-0713
UCC Faith Covenant...........281-488-0159 Westminister Presbyterian....281-486-4597 Unitarian Bay Area Unitarian Universalist Church...............281-488-2001
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
55
In this section Major Medical Facilities
Finding a Doctor Medical Moving Tips
56
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in the Clear Lake Area 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.
In 2014, Bay Area Regional Medical
Since
Regional
16 hospitals and some 2,900 clinically
Center became the newest and most
Hospital has served the greater Bay Area
integrated physicians. A 64-bed hospital
modern hospital complex to open in
by expanding services, specialties and
opened in Pearland in March 2016.
the Houston Bay Area. With more than
facilities. The hospital today has approx-
400 physicians and 500 employees, Bay
imately 2,000 staff members and 900
Other hospital systems serving the Bay Area
Area Regional is dedicated to providing
physicians in multiple disciplines. Clear
include Houston Methodist Clear Lake
Lake Regional Hospital has the only
Hospital, Houston Methodist San Jacinto
children’s emergency room, the only dedi-
in Bay Town, and CHI St. Luke’s Health
cated heart hospital and the only Level
in Pasadena. If needed, the Texas Medical
III trauma departments in the Bay Area.
Center (TMC), one of the largest medical
exceptional health care while making a difference in people’s lives. Bay Area Regional is currently pursuing Level IITrauma Designation and has received
1972,
Clear
Lake
centers in the world and is home to some of
Chest Pain Center Accreditation with PCI
Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital
in 2016. Expansion plans include doubling
the top ranked hospitals and specialists in
with 293 beds has provided high-quality
the amount of private patient rooms and
the United States, is not too far away.
health care in the Bay Area for almost
a new Women’s Center with a Neonatal
30
Hermann
Thousands of physicians have private prac-
Intensive Care Unit this year.
Health System in the Houston area has
tices in the Bay Area. There are several
years.
The
Memorial
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
57
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
referral services in the Clear Lake Area to help newcomers find the right doctors.
MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITIES IN CLEAR LAKE CHI St. Luke’s Health, Patients Medical Center 713-948-7000 | www.chistlukeshealth.org CHI St. Luke’s Health—Patients Medical Center received a five-star quality rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). With more than 4,500 hospitals participating in the federally-funded healthcare program, Patients Medical Center was one of only 337 hospitals nationwide and 33 in Texas awarded a five-star rating. Five stars is the highest rating a hospital can receive through the Hospital Compare overall rating scale. Publicly reported
on the Medicare.gov website, the overall rating scale utilizes individual hospital data from up to 57 quality measures across seven quality group categories, including mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience, effectiveness of care, timeliness of care, and efficient use of medical imaging. “We continually strive to offer the highest quality care while providing a superior patient experience,” said Steven Foster, president, Patients Medical Center. “Receiving a five-star rating, the highest possible from CMS, further confirms that the physicians and staff of Patients Medical Center offer exceptional healthcare to their patients and the community.” Hospital Compare was created by CMS to assist patients and their families when making decisions about where to receive healthcare. Additionally, the program encourages hospitals to improve the quality of care provided through on-going
monitoring of quality data. For more information about the program, visit Medicare. gov/HospitalCompare. Patients Medical Center provides inpatient and outpatient medical and surgical services to residents of Pasadena, Deer Park, La Porte, Baytown, and Clear Lake. The facility includes 53 medical/surgical beds, eight ICU beds, and three endoscopy rooms, and offers a range of primary and
specialized
services—wound
care,
general surgery, gastroenterology, occupational health, heart and vascular, women’s services, diagnostic imaging, outpatient rehab services, and sleep disorders. HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com Clear
Lake
Regional
Medical
Center
(CLRMC) is a 595 licensed bed tertiary regional referral hospital offering comprehensive inpatient and outpatient medical, surgical
and
specialty
services.
More
than 40 medical specialties and associated services are represented at CLRMC, including open-heart surgery and a Level III neonatal intensive care unit. With
His generation put a man on the moon.
CLRMC employment exceeding 2,000, the hospital offers a comprehensive range of primary and tertiary services for patients of all ages.
You know he has ideas worth hearing.
Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital 281-523-2000
At Brookdale, we’re looking for interesting seniors — people who’ve lived life to the fullest and are hungry for more.
www.houstonmethodist.org/clearlake
Call us, and find out how we’re Bringing New Life to Senior LivingTM.
odist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center
For more information, call (281) 316-9055.
Johnson Space Center, St. John offers inno-
Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital brings all the expertise and compassionate care of the world-renowned Houston Methto Clear Lake and the Greater Bay Area. Located in Nassau Bay, across from NASA vative, high-quality, patient-centered care in a welcoming, faith-based healing environment.
Brookdale Clear Lake Independent Living
The Houston Methodist Cancer Center
780 West Bay Area Boulevard Webster, TX 77598
team of multidisciplinary medical special-
©2016 Brookdale Senior Living, Inc. All rights reserved. BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING and BRINGING NEW LIFE TO SENIOR LIVING are the registered trademarks of Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.
Bringing New Life to Senior Living™
58
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
brookdale.com
ists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating the most common types of cancer, including breast, lung, prostate and brain
HOUSTON METHODIST HOSPITAL IS NO. 1 FOR PATIENT CARE IN TEXAS. Houston Methodist, throughout its long history, has focused on innovation that directly benefits our patients. We are national leaders in the delivery of health care, and others agree. U.S. News & World Report has named Houston Methodist Hospital the No. 1 hospital in Texas every year since the award began. In addition, Houston Methodist is nationally ranked in eight specialties — the most in the state. Houston Methodist directs millions of research dollars into patient care and offers the latest innovations in medical, surgical and diagnostic techniques. We are pressing ahead toward a greater and grander vision, one that positions us to help shape the future of medicine. For a physician referral, visit houstonmethodist.org or call 713.790.3599.
CARDIOLOGY & HEART SURGERY • DIABETES & ENDOCRINOLOGY • GASTROENTEROLOGY & GI SURGERY GERIATRICS • NEPHROLOGY • NEUROLOGY & NEUROSURGERY • ORTHOPEDICS • PULMONOLOGY
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
59
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
cancers, using the most sophisticated screening technology and advanced treatment techniques available. Houston
Methodist
Orthopedics
&
Sports Medicine has been a leading provider of comprehensive orthopedics and sports medicine care (including physical therapy services), in our community. We are the official health care provider for CCISD Athletics, Dickinson ISD Athletics, Pasadena ISD Athletics and Friendswood ISD Athletics. Our Concussion Center employs a personalized approach to diagnose, treat and manage concussions. Our Spine Program offers expedited access for patients suffering with back and neck pain and offers today’s most advanced imaging, treatment and rehabilitative therapies.
FINDING THE RIGHT DOCTOR
Houston Methodist Neurology Associates specializes in caring for patients with movement disorders, tremors, Parkinson’s,
Alzheimer’s,
stroke,
epilepsy,
migraines, neuropathy and other neuromuscular disorders.
The following is list of local and national physician resource, - where you can search for general practice physicians by location, specialty, and more.
Houston Methodist Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates delivers the highest level of care to women through all stages of their lives. A partnership with Texas Children’s
American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician
Hospital provides families with a level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) staffed by expert neonatologists.
resource under the “Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org The Houston Methodist Primary Care
American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s
Group board-certified family medicine and internal medicine doctors see patients
health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is compre-
for simple checkups to more complex
hensive site for health-related news, questions, and other topics.
concerns and offer access to the Houston
www.aap.org • www.healthychildren.org
Methodist network of specialty physicians. The Emergency Room is an accredited
Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across
Chest Pain Center and Primary Stroke
the state, as well as information on general health resources; go
Center, recognized for rapid diagnosis
to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org
and treatment of heart attacks and strokes. We also offer an online scheduling reservation service for faster, more convenient medical treatment by one of our board-certified emergency medicine physicians.
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
To find a Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital physician, visit houstonmethodist. org/find-a-doctor or call 281.333.8899. UT Physicians 1-888-4UT-DOCS | www.UTPhysicians.com Better health starts here. From pediatrics and family medicine to specialty care, UT Physicians offers a comprehensive patient-centered approach at three locations in the Clear Lake Area. “Providing exceptional health care close to home is one of the missions of UT Physicians,” said Andrew Casas, vice president and COO of UT Physicians, the clinical practice of McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth). “UT Physicians provides excellent care that people can count on in their neighborhood.” Bayshore
Family
Practice
Center,
located at 11425 Space Center Boulevard, recently earned Level 3 recognition
as a Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) by the highly respected National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). The PCMH is a primary care delivery model that combines teamwork and information technology to improve care and patient experience while reducing costs. The distinction acknowledges use of evidence-based, patient-centered processes that focus on highly coordinated care and long-term, participative relationships. In a patient-centered medical home, each patient’s care is overseen by clinician-led teams that coordinate treatment across the health care system. Research shows that medical homes can lead to higher quality and lower costs, and can improve patient and provider reported experiences of care. A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine by Harvard researchers linked a patient-centered medical home to better medication adherence.
“We are excited about this achievement,” said family medicine physician Thomas Murphy, M.D., the medical director of the Bayshore Family Practice Center and the assistant dean of community affairs
Welcome to the Neighborhood! We know moving, packing, and unpacking can be stressful. So let us help put your mind at ease when it comes to choosing a healthcare partner for you and your family. Whether it’s an annual wellness exam or a major illness or injury, we’ve got you covered. Unpack our comprehensive Local’s Guide to Bay Area Houston and receive a welcome gift at ImagineBetterHealth.org/Welcome.
CHI St. Luke’s Health Patients Medical Center 4600 East Sam Houston Parkway S. Pasadena, Texas 77505
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
61
A REVOLUTIONARY HEARING AId THAT
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
CAN HEAR LIKE YOUR EARS dO.
Lyric, the world’s first and only 100% invisible, 24/7 wearable, showerproof, for-months-at-a-time* hearing device can.
A Hearing Aid that can do all this?
and health policy at McGovern Medical Lyric’s unique design and placement works with your ear’s Lyric, the world’s first and only 100% invisible, 24/7 wearable, showerproof, for-months-at-a-time hearing device can. of Texas Health anatomy to deliver exceptional sound quality School at The University *
• Lyric uses your outer ear to naturally direct sound into your ear canal; no need for multiple settings or complicated programs • 100% invisible, so you enjoy all the benefits of better hearing without anyone knowing you’re using a hearing device • Lyric is designed to remain in your ear canal for months at a time • Its proprietary battery is designed to last for months • Lyric has a programmable sound processing system designed to work millimeters from the eardrum • Wear exercising, showering** and sleeping with no daily hassles • Improved directionality and localization means better ability to tell where sounds are coming from • Reduces feedback (whistling sound) • Reduces wind noises • Lyric requires no anesthesia or surgery • Lets you easily use listening devices like a telephone, stethoscope or headphones
Lyric’s unique design and placement works with your ear’s Science Center at Houston anatomy to deliver exceptional sound quality
Lyric, the world’s first and only 100% invisible hearing aid. Worn 24/7, during most daily activities, like sleeping, showering, and exercising.1, 3 •100% invisible • No daily hassles • Clear, natural sound • No batteries to change
www.bayareaaudiology.com Webster, TX 77598
The NCQA has recognized that this UT Physicians center offers patient care that is comprehensive, coordinated and patient-focused based on the best practices for health care delivery.” Along with a family practice center, UT Physicians alsowww.lyrichearing.com has a multispecialty clinic
at 11476 Space Center Boulevard with Risk-Free Trial† • Free Lyric Consultation and Hearing Aids
Dr. Chanda J. Abbott, CCC-A, FAAA 17099 Texas Reservations Avenue, Suite 200 Space Is Limited. Required EXPERIENCE LYRIC HEARING FOR YOURSELF Webster, 77598TX 77598 17099 Texas Avenue, Suite 200 | TX Webster, Call us today! 281-914-4943 x308
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country have achieved this distinction.
www.lyrichearing.com
Bay Area Audiology Risk-Free Trial • Free Lyric Consultation
Learn About Lyric † RISK-FREE 30-Day Trial** Complimentary Lyric Consultation Call to make appointment today! BayanArea Audiology
(UTHealth).
“Only 15 percent of practices across the
• Lyric uses your outer ear to naturally direct sound into your ear canal; no need for multiple settings or complicated programs • 100% invisible, so you enjoy all the benefits of better hearing without anyone knowing you’re using a hearing device • Lyric is designed to remain in your ear canal for months at a time • Its proprietary battery is designed to last for months • Lyric has a programmable sound processing system designed to work millimeters from the eardrum • Wear exercising, showering** and sleeping with no daily hassles • Improved directionality and localization means better ability to tell where sounds are coming from • Reduces feedback (whistling sound) • Reduces wind noises • Lyric requires no anesthesia or surgery • Lets you easily use listening devices like a telephone, stethoscope or headphones
281-336-0090 Certified Lyric Hearing Professionals extension 301
Dr. Chanda J. Abbott, CCC-A, FAAA
the following services: cardiology and
EXPERIENCE LYRIC HEARING FOR YOURSELF imaging, cardiothoracic Call us today!
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and
vascular
throat, endocri-
extension 301 nology, gastroenterology,
Your Hearing is Precious…don’t trust it to anyone but an accredited hearing professional… Dr. Abbott received her Doctor of Audiology and Masters of Audiology degrees from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and a BS in Communication Disorders from Eastern New Mexico University. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, Texas Academy of Audiology and the American Speech Language Hearing Association. She has been a practicing audiologist in Texas for 12 years.
hepatology,
oncology, on-site diagnostic lab services, rheumatology, surgery, dermatology, pain
The patients of Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids trust their hearing to us because of the high level Your Hearing is Precious…don’t trust it to anyone but an accredited hearing professional… of attention we provide.from Our competitive pricing is management, strengthened by our expertise andneurology, years of education Dr. Abbott received her Doctor of Audiology and Masters of Audiology degrees Dr. Abbott received her Doctor of Audiology and Masters of Audiology degrees from Texas Tech University in the hearing instrument sciences. We offer the best products available and excellent, caring service. Take Dr. Chanda J. Abbott Texas Tech University Sciences Center and a New BS Mexico in Communication thisShe opportunity to find out if help is available. diabetes education. Health Sciences Center and a BS inHealth Communication Disorders from Eastern University. is Disorders CCC-A, FAAA a member the American of Audiology, TexasShe Academy Audiology of andthe the American Speech from ofEastern NewAcademy Mexico University. is aofmember American Academy of Language Hearing Association. She has been a practicing audiologist in Texas for 12 years.
OB/GYN and
*Individual patient needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions.**Lyric is water resistant, not waterproof, and should not be completely submerged underwater. †Professional fees may apply. Annual subscription begins the first day of trial. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. See a Lyric Provider to determine if Lyric is right for you. Lyric, Distributed by Phonak, LLC ©2013 All rights reserved MS025810 NEW901
Audiology, Texas Academy of Audiology and the American Speech Language Hearing The patients of Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids trust their hearing to us because of the high level Association. SheOurhas been apricing practicing audiologist in Texas for of 17education years. of attention we provide. competitive is strengthened by our expertise and years in the hearing instrument sciences. We offer the best products available and excellent, caring service. Take
Chanda J.J.Abbott Dr.Dr.Chanda Abbottthis opportunity to find out if help is available. *Individual replacement needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual ear conditions. CCC-A, FAAA CCC-A, FAAA **Professional fees may apply. Annual subscription begins the first day of trial. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. Seeeara conditions.**Lyric Lyric provideristowater determine if Lyric is right for you. Lyric, Distributed Phonak,†Professional LLC ©2018. All apply. rights *Individual patient needs may vary. Duration of device battery life varies by patient and is subject to individual resistant, not waterproof, and should not be completely submergedby underwater. fees may Annual subscription begins the first day of trial. Lyric is not appropriate for all patients. See a Lyric Provider to determine if Lyric is right for you. Lyric, Distributed by Phonak, LLC ©2013 All rights reserved MS025810 NEW901
reserved. 118NEW MS061117
For children, Pediatric Center – Bay Area at 17150 El Camino Real includes general pediatrics, gastroenterology, neurology, cardiology, nephrology and behavioral health. For more information on any UT Physicians clinics, please visit UTPhysicians. com or contact us at 888-4UT-DOCS. The University of Texas Medical Branch UTMB Health Pediatrics 888-UTMB-KID • 409-772-3695 www.utmbkid.org As a leading health system, UTMB Health offers you innovative care provided with compassion and that is nationally recognized. We embrace a Best Care philosophy, which means that we are committed to making sure that you receive the right care for the best possible results. As the communities we serve grow and change, healthcare needs to grow and change with them. Which is why we are also committed to expanding access to advanced care on our Galveston, League City, Clear Lake and Angleton Danbury campuses and at more than 90 care clinics in Southeast Texas.
62
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
For residents of the Bay Area, access to innovative care is close by and convenient
Photo Courtesy of UTMB Health
with the finest inpatient and outpatient services available at the UTMB Health Clear Lake Campus, League City Campus, and at many primary and specialty care clinics located throughout the Bay Area. No matter where you enter the UTMB Health network, our providers, clinics and hospitals are seamlessly connected to one another.
Because we are an academic
medical center, physicians share knowledge, the most advanced treatment options and leading-edge research – to bring you the benefits of academic medicine close to home. Here are just a few more reasons to choose UTMB Health: • The most comprehensive network of care in the Bay Area
• Comprehensive Stroke Center certification
•L evel IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the very top level
• A Level I Trauma Center, the very top
•B reast imaging program designated a
level for trauma centers
“Center of Excellence” by the American
• Accreditation for the highest level of
College of Radiology
• Six Urgent Care clinics
breast care by the National Accreditation
• Four 24/7 Emergency Departments
Program for Breast Centers
•L evel IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the very top level
THE ROAD TO RECOVERY STARTS HERE PAM REHABILITATION HOSPITAL OF CLEAR LAKE REHABILITATION SERVICES • • • •
Stroke (CVA) Amputation Brain Injury Medically Complex
• • • •
Major Joint/Ortho Movement Disorders Hip Fracture Pulmonary Conditions
• Spinal Cord Injury • Neurological Disorders • Parkinson’s
SPECIALIZED SERVICES • • • • • •
Stroke Program Brain Injury Program Wound Care Balance Vestibular Bioness Integrated Therapy System Body Weight Supported Transitional Mobility Systems • Prosthetic Training • Specialty Mobility and Seating
• Spasticity Management • Bariatric Equipment • Swallowing Therapy, including Vital Stim & Therapeutic Dining Program • On-Site In-Room Dialysis/ Peritoneal Dialysis • Multi-Surface Outdoor Mobility Track • Sensory Integration
110 E. Medical Center Blvd. Webster, TX 77598 Main: (832) 224-9500 www.postacutemedical.com
Call us now to learn how our experienced, specially-trained professionals will develop a customized care plan for you. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
63
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
•M agnet Recognition, the highest honor for nursing excellence • Vizient Quality Leadership Award – among the nation’s best academic medical centers Visit doctors.utmbhealth.com to find a UTMB Health physician. PAM Rehabilitation Hospital 832-224-9500 • www.postacutemedical.com
MOVING MEDICAL TIPS 1
If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in this publication to get information.
2
Call the offices of all your current physicians/dentists and tell them that you are moving. Ask for referrals they might be willing to make.
3
If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of the records of each of your family members to your new doctor.
4
If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/ dentist to make copies of pertinent records of all your family members
PAM Rehabilitation Hospital of Clear Lake is a state-of-the-art acute rehabilitation Hospital offering inpatient and outpatient therapy services. Our robust rehabilitation program is led by experienced Physical Medical and Rehabilitation (PMR) physicians specially trained in rehabilitation and augmented by additional specialists to optimize the care of each patient. Our team provides rehabilitation, skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology, and respiratory therapy. CHI St. Luke’s Health Brazosport CHI St. Luke’s Health Brazosport in Lake Jackson is the only Level III Trauma Center in Brazoria County. Brazosport Regional includes over 100 board-certified physicians and nearly 600 highly-qualified employees. The 158-bed hospital offers state of the art diagnostic and comprehensive treatment services, an advanced cardiac care center and full service multidisciplinary cancer center.
for you to take with you. Pack these records in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency.
5
64
It is extremely important that you get the immunization records for your children before you move. You cannot enroll your children in local schools without these records. You will also need certified copies of your children’s birth certificates as well as the addresses of your children’s former schools.
6
If you are a member of a healthcare HMO/PPO plan, or have a prescription drug card, be sure to notify the company of your moving plans. The insurance company should be able to provide you with a list of physicians/ healthcare facilities in the area.
7
Pack an emergency first aid kit to take en route to your new home. Items such as bandages, thermometer, pain killers or aspirin, antihistamine, firstaid ointment, tweezers and decongestant can come in handy.
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
HEALTHCARE SERVICE PROVIDERS Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids 281-332-4575 • www.bayareaaudiology.com Since 1973, providing trusted advice, expert service and compassionate care that helps fellow citizens to truly experience the joy of hearing. Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids was established 1973 and our close affiliation with Clear Lake Medical Ear-Nose-Throat provides us the unique opportunity to offer the highest quality hearing aids and hearing care to Webster
Texas, Bay Area Texas, and the surrounding
Dr. Abbott makes every effort to ensure
Brookdale Clear Lake offers expansive
communities. We make it our goal to
that her patients receive the best hearing
dining choices seven days a week, including
provide the best service and follow-up care
care possible, and are able to continue
restaurant-style dining and their E.A.T.
to all of our patients. We are committed to
enjoying their daily activities.
American Bistro. Facilities include a movie
providing you with exceptional hearing solutions; allowing you to enjoy the benefits of optimal hearing. We offer state of the art technology including Resound, Phonak,
theater, community lounge, private dining Brookdale® Clear Lake
areas, beauty salon, library and commu-
281-316-9055 • www.brookdale.com
Widex and Lyric the world’s first and only
Everyone has unique dreams and passions
100% invisible hearing device that delivers
that continue to grow throughout life. Brook-
natural sound.
dale Clear Lake works to create a place
Dr. Chanda J. Abbott, CCC-A, FAAA, received her B.S. from Eastern New Mexico University and her Masters and Doctor of Audiology from Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, Texas Academy of Audiology, and the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association.
that goes well beyond physical support to a socially connected community with opportunities. Brookdale Clear Lake wants active seniors to live life to the fullest.
nity room. Other amenities include a gated entry, pool, hot tub area, putting green, large rose garden, koi pond and waterfall. Brookdale Clear Lake is located in Webster, Texas, in the heart of Clear Lake City. It is one block east of the Gulf Freeway on Bay Area Boulevard. The community is just two blocks from Clear Lake Medical Center
Formerly called The Terrace, Brookdale
and within minutes of shopping, dining,
Clear Lake offers Independent Living
the Johnson Space Center and the Clear
services for today’s active seniors. Brook-
Lake recreational area.
dale offers apartment style living with all
Dr. Abbott has been an Audiologist in Texas
the conveniences of a home without the
To learn more about the community and
for 18 years. Her specialization is hearing
work and have a variety of floor plans with
the services, programs and amenities their
aids, combining physics, mechanics, and
full kitchens, dining areas, built-in book
residents experience every day, call to set
biology to help people hear.
shelving and walk-in closets.
up a visit.
PEDIATRIC PRIMARY AND SPECIALTY CARE At UTMB Health, your child has access to over 125 years of Pediatric expertise in healthcare you can trust. With convenient locations in League City, Galveston, and across the Bay Area, UTMB Health is always ready to welcome your family.
One call to (888) 886-2543 connects you to our Access Center available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. www.UTMBKID.org
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
65
In this section
Photo courtesy of Visit Houston
Aerospace Bio-Technology Boating & Tourism Business Organizations Maps
66
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
BUSINESS &
COMMUNITY The quality of life in the Clear Lake Bay area proves there is strength in diversity. The areas highly educated and youthful population are employed by some of the largest national and international corporations in a wide range of industries. From exploring the wonders of earth to the mysteries of space and science, you will find strong partnerships here to bring your ideas to life.
Supporting both the public and private
outside of California with more than 22,000
safety and quality assurance, life sciences,
aerospace ventures are diverse sectors of
people working in aerospace firms and
and advanced and precision manufac-
manufacturing, technology and service
related industries.
turing. All are skills and technologies that
companies. While the NASA / Johnson
easily transfer within multiple commercial
Space Center employs thousands of area
Aerospace
also
adds
an
international
residents, the area’s economy is also
business culture to the Clear Lake Area
fueled by tourism and boating, biotech-
because it draws astronauts and aerospace
nology, health care and the petrochemical
experts from around the world. Most all of
NASA / JSC is at the center of ongoing
industry. Support services and outgrowth
the United States astronauts and support
missions to and from the International Space
businesses such as banking and finance,
personnel maintain homes close to NASA /
Station (ISS). The ISS holds the record for
education, real estate and retail employ a
JSC and many of the international crew also
the longest continuing orbit of the Earth
large number of workers in a wide variety
reside close by.
as well as being the largest space vehicle to
of jobs.
markets, like defense, homeland security, oil & gas and alternative energy.
do so. The United States, Russia, Europe, The NASA / Johnson Space Center is the
Japan and Canada participate in missions
AEROSPACE
heart of the space program in the United
that conduct experiments and research and
Almost all major aerospace companies
States Operations include the management
document living aboard the ISS.
in the U. S. have a presence in the Clear
of space programs, astronaut training,
Lake Area, from The Boeing Company
technological research, development and
NASA / JSC is partnering with private
and United Space Alliance to Jacobs Tech-
implementation, biomedical research and
U. S. companies like SpaceX and Orbital
nology. This represents the second largest
space medicine. These programs are driven
Sciences to continue the ISS program well
concentration
by services in information technology,
into the future. The joint venture between
of
aerospace
companies
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67
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
NASA and private companies is fueling
HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house here, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help figure out the rest. If you made $53,759 in Denver, for example, your salar y 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.
job growth in the Clear Lake Area and is further strengthening the presence of the aerospace industry. Listings of aerospace and engineering companies are available at: • www.bayareahouston.com • www.nasa.gov/centers.
BIOTECHNOLOGY NASA - Johnson Space Center bioastronautics program began in 2003, and is responsible for the huge growth in the biotechnology field. Some of the
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
distinguished participants include Wyle
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
Laboratories, Lockheed Martin Space Operations, Barrios Technology, Bastion
Phoenix
61,439
New York City
25,910
Technologies,
Enterprise
Advisory
Detroit
61,826
Los Angeles
41,996
Inc., and the University of Texas Medical
Austin
61,375
Chicago
50,705
San Francisco
33,401
Las Vegas
54,455
Boston
40,832
Portland
45,498
generate almost $1 billon over ten years.
Denver
53,759
St. Louis
63,697
by biotechnology companies, which are
Miami
52,467
Raleigh
65,105
Pittsburgh
59,757
Cincinnati
64,818
Dallas
61,311
Charleston
58,336
Services Inc. (EASI), MEI Technologies Branch at Galveston. The pioneering field has brought over $300 million to the area and it is expected to Approximately 2,900 people are employed concentrated in the Clear Lake Area. These jobs account for 15 percent of the biotech positions in Houston. Affiliated companies are listed at www.biohouston.org. Business initiatives have emerged from the blending of traditional engineering disciplines and the medical community, and are funded by traditional sources, venture capital and grants. The collaboration between biotechnical companies and NASA researchers is focused on the development of new pharmaceuticals, and the International Space Station is utilized as a research platform. The BioHouston initiative was formed to promote the bioscience industry and to create an environment that will bolster the research in life sciences technology. The goals of the organization are to encourage entrepreneurship, help emerging companies secure funding, and maintain a support network of experienced advisors.
68
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
BOATING
areas to explore Clear Lake and the
The Armand Bayou Nature Center is
“The Boating Capital of Texas,” is a 1,728-
surrounding townships.
America’s largest urban wildlife preserve, encompassing three ecosystems that protect
acre natural inlet that provides harborage for the third largest number of privately
TOURISM
owned boats in the nation. Clear Lake’s
In excess of $4.3 million is spent on tourism
proximity to Houston and the Gulf of
in the immediate Clear Lake Area. A growing
Mexico combined with the shoreline access
destination spot for local and international
assure the continued growth of the boating
vacationers as well as business travelers.
more than 360 animal species.
At the NASA/Johnson Space Center Some 19 marinas with approximately 7,000
visitors can get a close-up look of the engi-
boat slips line Clear Lake where powerboats,
neering that goes into moon rovers, watch
to the area’s natural resources, water sports have become a primary industry. The
boating
industry
accounts
films of historic launches and landings, and tour Mission Control and the new International Plaza. An incredible display of
for
locals wanting sun, delicious food, people watching and panoramic bay views. The Kemah Boardwalk is a popular entertain-
industry and other waterfront endeavors.
sailboats, yachts and fishing boats dock. Due
Kemah is a must see for visitors and
once-used space vehicles rests on the large
ment venue with a colorful carousel, a roller coaster and fountain on its bustling waterfront plaza. A variety of interesting shops, galleries and restaurants surround the Boardwalk’s main hotel. Webster and League City are also favorite spots for visitors and both are just minutes
about 10% of gross sales in the Clear
grassy front lawn. Space Center Houston
away. Eclectic shops and wonderful restau-
Lake Area, with retail boat sales being
is another great entertainment venue that
rants that dot the small cities and towns
the largest contributor. The commer-
showcases America’s accomplishments in
encourage vacationers to check out all of
cial waterfront areas continue to add
space, and features interactive exhibits that
the Clear Lake Area.
docking facilities, restaurants and retail
entertain, educate, and inspire. NASA/
shops. The concept of “boat and break-
Johnson Space Center and Space Center
PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRY
fast” lodging is also springing up on the
Houston rank among the top vacation
The region’s economy is directly tied to
lake and encourages boaters from other
destinations in the Houston area.
petrochemicals; the Clear Lake Area boasts
Savings Rates Are Soaring
Inside H-E-B Clear Lake 281.471.1782 | www.beaconfed.org La Porte | Baytown | Seabrook | H-E-B Deer Park | H-E-B Clear Lake *APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Jumbo Share Certificates: $90,000 minimum, rates vary. Share Certificates: minimum balance is $1,000.00. A penalty will be charged for early withdrawal. All Rates & Terms are subject to change without notice.
Share Certificate of Deposit Rates as High as
3.05 %
APY*
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
69
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
the nation’s largest concentration of petro-
OUTGROWTH INDUSTRIES
chemical producers. Major employers are
Aviation, banking and finance, education,
LyondellBasell, Celanese, Albemarle Corp.,
real estate, retail and health care professions
Dixie Chemical, and Azko Nobel. Growth
are only a few of the outgrowth industries
in the petrochemical industry has remained
that support the four primary Clear Lake
steady for the past 25 years. The Bayport Industrial District is home to over 70 companies. Some of the larger companies include Phillips Petroleum, ExxonMobil, Union Carbide, and BP Amoco. One of the largest private industrial facilities in the nation, the facility covers 10,000 acres and employs more than 8,700 workers. A variety of specialty chemicals, polymers and plastics that go into the production of household goods and automotive products
area industries. Banks, credit unions and mortgage companies continue to expand their financial services to residents and small businesses. Consequently, the financial sector has become a significant source of employment. Schools, colleges and universities are also expanding
to
accommodate
a
greater
demand and higher standards in education. As more and more people pursue advanced
are produced at plants in the area. Petrochem-
degrees, educational institutions, like the
ical companies are also directly responsible
University of Houston at Clear Lake, are
for the addition of many jobs in related fields
responding by offering more classes while
and support industries. Estimated annual
enhancing their curriculum. These institu-
income from the petrochemical companies is
tions partner with business, industry and
$829 million, and accounts for $531 million
government to create and train for new tech-
in personal income to area residents.
nologies and business practices.
There is also a demand for health care professionals. Several excellent hospitals and medical centers in the immediate area employ about 3,200 people. With the Texas Medical Center in close proximity there is a never-ending demand for experienced skilled workers and professionals from the many different disciplines within the health care industry.
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Since its founding in 1976, the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership has evolved into the regional leader in economic development, recognized for its ability to address issues and promote business as well as being trusted to create alliances. It is member driven, with members who are key senior leaders in business, industry, education, and local government across the region, which roughly extends from the Houston Ship Channel to the Pearland regional area and from the Gulfgate area to Galveston. The organization closely adheres to its Strategic Plan. This plan guides BAHEP as it continues to pursue economic development opportunities to recruit, retain, expand and create businesses and jobs that are compatible with the core cluster industries, while also building new industry clusters. Its focus is on regional collaboration and regional actions that lead to prosperity and a high quality of life for the almost 800,000 people who live and work in the area. BAHEP members are encouraged to become actively involved in the organization’s initiatives by attending and participating in monthly membership meetings, special events and one or more of a dozen BAHEP committees in order to obtain the maximum benefit on their investment. The strength of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership lies in its commitment to the people and businesses of the region and the ability to back up that commitment with action that produces positive results. BAHEP reflects 40 years of expertise upon which local, regional, state and national leaders have come to
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
rely. William A. Staples, Ph.D., president,
League City, Morgan’s Point, Nassau Bay,
Taylor Lake Village, Webster and parts of
University of Houston Clear Lake, states,
Pasadena, Seabrook, Taylor Lake Village,
Houston and Pasadena.
“Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
and Webster, as well as Galveston County,
has the unique ability to bring together a
Harris County, the Houston Airport System
With a variety of events, programs, educa-
true cross-section of the area’s business
and the Port of Houston Authority.
tional seminars and community advocacy,
community to advance the development and growth of our region. BAHEP creates win-win partnerships with business, govern-
the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Clear
Lake
Area
Chamber
is encouraging its residents to “Buy Into Bay
ment, and educational organizations.
The
of
The diversity of BAHEP’s membership
since 1962, is one of the most active and
speaks to its ability to attract and retain
aggressive volunteer organizations in the
businesses, which are recognized leaders in
community. Chamber Board Members,
our community.”
Committee Chairmen, volunteers and the
Commerce, serving Bay Area Houston
Chamber staff wear a variety of “hats”
Area.” Encouraging residents to not only shop locally, but volunteer, donate and spend time in the fantastic community that is the Clear Lake Area. Looking to the future, the Clear Lake Area Chamber has a thriving Young Professionals program that is designed to cultivate the next
United States Congressman Kevin Brady
in their efforts to stimulate and retain the
(R-TX) added, “The Bay Area group does
business community, attract new business,
an amazing job. We see them in the halls
maintain a high quality of life for residents
Chamber of Commerce and our Bay Area
of Congress pushing the right issues for the
and appeal to visitors and tourists.
Houston community. The goal is to energize,
generation of leaders for the Clear Lake Area
engage and empower young professionals
right reasons. They’re such an important part of our community and, more impor-
The Clear Lake Area Chamber recognizes
tantly, an important part of our whole
the defined “Clear Lake Area” as its service
region.” BAHEP’s municipal members are
territory. This composite community includes
The mission of the Clear Lake Area Chamber
Clear Lake Shores, Dickinson, El Lago,
Clear Lake City, Clear Lake Shores, El Lago,
of Commerce is “Champions for Business
Friendswood, Houston, Kemah, La Porte,
Kemah, League City, Nassau Bay, Seabrook,
Success & Quality of Life in our Community.”
throughout the Clear Lake Area.
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71
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
Harris County
Ea San st Fork Jacinto 288
UP
UP
William P. Hobby Airport
UP
UP
LR
UP
La Porte
Morgans Point
146
LR
Shoreacres Taylor Johnson Lake Village k 35 Space Clear Cree Center El Lago Pearland Clear 2351 Seabrook Lake BRAZORIA Webster Nassau Friendswood Bay 270 146 518 45 3 League 528 City NASA1 8 MILES G A LV E S T O N 8
ton el us ann Ho Ch ip Sh
521
G
Harris County © Texas Almanac
South Houston
99
on
LR
865
134
225
Deer Park
146
Baytown
st
Stafford Missouri City
PTRA
330
SAN JACINTO MONUMENT
Bay
90A
UP
59
Ferry
BATTLESHIP TEXAS
ve
D
FT. BEND PARKWAY
Retail Sales..............$88,892,139,887
1876
N
10
Channelview Free
Pasadena
BNSF
BE
1942
al
T
8
CHAMBERS
R
u
Prop. Value............$472,155,923,085
Barrett Highlands McNair
Galena Park
610
to
o Bay
FO
6
Cedar
1093
Y
Per Capita Inc......................$55,088
fa l BufBarker Reservoir
er
Ja ci n
Sheldon
Jacinto City
RT
99
yo u o Ba
BE
Barker
10
Wages......................$37,346,009,148
SHELDON LAKE STATE PARK
n
90
UP
Crosby
SHELDON WILDLIFE MGMT AREA
v Ri
UP Katy 90
UP Spring Hilshire Vil. 610 Valley Hedwig Hunters Addicks Vil. Creek Vil. Piney Point Vil. Bunker West Hill Vil. University Place Alief 69 Bellaire Southside Place 8
2100
Sa
HOUSTON
Addicks Reservoir
Huffman
Lake Houston
yo u Greens Ba
LR
Civilian labor......................2,279,367
59
UP
HARDY AD TOLL RO
529
July mean max...........................90.7
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
525
Aldine
Jersey Village
6
Jan. mean min...........................43.4
Unemployed.................................5.3
8
1960
C
rk Fo i st We Jac n Sa
SF
R
Rainfall (in.)...............................56.81
ek
s Cre ypres
1960
Atascocita
George Bush 69 Humble Intercontinental Airport
Cypress
LR
LR
nt o
6
99
Kingwood
LR
Klein
UP
LLE
Altitude (ft.).................sea level–310
99 LR
290
WA
Land area(sq.mi.)..................1,703.5
Hockley
Spring
2920
BN
Waller
LR
Tomball
2920 LR
Area (sq.mi.)..........................1,777.5
1485
UP
UP
LR
MONTGOMERY
45
Hufsmith
eek Spring Cr
LI
Population..........................4,538,028 Change from 2010.....................10.9
2978 249
UP
362
362 1488
310'
UP
1736
The largest county in the eastern half of state; level; typically coastal surface and soils; many bayous, canals for artificial drainage; Lake Houston, Sheldon Reservoir; partly forested.
0
Galveston County
Clear Lake Shores H A R R I S Clear Lake 146
Altitude (ft.) ..................sea level–40
45
C Friendswood k 528
96
League City
40'
Civilian labor.........................160,210 BR
Santa Fe 646
197
1764
La Marque 519
Tiki Island
Prop. Value..............$30,079,936,427
Texas City
T TC 197
Hitchcock 2004 Bayou Vista
IA
Per Capita Inc......................$47,991
OR
Wages........................$1,270,109,659
AZ
Unemployed.................................5.6
1765
1765
Texa Cha s City nne l lve Ga ston l Ship Channe
188
l Gu
PELICAN SPIT MILITARY RESERVATION
l
BNSF
2004 1764
146
ne Chan
6
UP LR
3
Galveston Bay
p Shi
Algoa
342
108
n fI
co tra
ISLAND STATE PARK
ate lW asta
Gilchrist BOLIVAR PENINSULA
87
Port Bolivar Free Ferry OLD FORT
87 SAN JACINTO
GALVESTON
l
f
o
f
M
e
x
o ic
G
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
87
y r wa
Crystal Beach
West Bay Jamaica Beach GALVESTON
Retail Sales................$3,883,946,813
High 26' Island
East Bay
517
UP
Jan. mean min...........................48.6
Dickinson UP
517
Kemah Bacliff San 646 Leon
1266 3436
646
Rainfall (in.) ..............................50.76 July mean max. .........................89.6
2094
n sto Hou
Land area(sq.mi.).....................378.4
270
ar Cle
Area (sq.mi.).............................873.8
2351
518
124
CHAMBERS
u
Population.............................322,225 Change from 2010.....................10.6
Partly island, partly coastal; flat, artificial drainage; sandy, loam, clay soils; broken by bays.
3005
San Luis Pass 0
72
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
8 MILES
Our Chamber works with volunteers from member corporations, organizations, and the academic community who serve on boards and committees to develop and implement policy on major issues affecting businesses in our community. Advocacy is a major part of our role here in the Clear Lake Area and we value the participation of every community leader and advocate. The following priorities and/or recommendations will be presented to the Texas 86th Legislature for review and implementation. Education & Workforce Development – It is our recommendation that the Legislature needs to provide a fair, adequate and sustainable system for funding public education and pass reasonable legislation and provide adequate funding to assure school safety and security for students, teachers, and the community. Supporting the Region’s Healthcare System – We suggest and support the continuation of the 1115 Texas Healthcare Transformation and Quality Improvement Waiver (1115 Medicaid Waiver). Maintain funding for the region’s Trauma Care Network and maintain Medicaid funding. We ask for support to the Healthcare Workforce Needs and support of improvements to our State’s Mental Health System. State of Texas Franchise Tax – A Proposal for Repurposing the Tax - It is our recommendation that the State of Texas incentivize economic development and workforce development in identified industries through allowable franchise tax credits or off-sets. Maritime Jobs Preservation and Growth – We are asking that the state establish a boat sales tax cap, similar to Florida and other coastal states, reducing restrictions and providing incentives for vessels with out-ofstate registration to utilize Texas waters, capping the current 6.25% sales tax on boat purchases at $18,750 for boats with values over $300,000. Coastal Spine / Taxing Authority – Our recommendation is to create or authorize a taxing authority for the purposes of receiving funds, guiding maintenance needs
and providing oversight for design, development, and build of the Coastal Spine. Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program and Texas Aerospace Scholars Program – We are asking for the state to support and fund the University of Houston Agency submission of the special item funding at $474,523 per annum and the Exceptional Item of $326,745 per annum for a total of $1,602,536 bi-annually. Spaceport Development Corporation and Spaceport Trust Fund – Our reform recommendation is to add language to Section 507.003 that enables a municipality with a population of two million or more residents to establish a spaceport development corporation provided it is within the jurisdiction of the municipality and appropriate $15 million to the Spaceport Trust Fund for infrastructure improvements only. Texas Ports / Texas Enterprise Fund – The proposed legislation would seek to affirm that a company that is granted Texas Enterprise Funds shall use a Texas port for all imports and exports associated with the business.
MARY JANE DIXON CPA, CFP™, CSA CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ CERTIFIED SENIOR ADVISOR
Serving Bay Area Since 1968
Services For
CORPORATIONS • INDIVIDUALS PARTNERSHIPS • ESTATES • TRUSTS
H Estate Tax Planning H Customized Workshops & Seminars
H Tax Return Preparation H Business Start-Up Consulting H Strategies to Help You Accumulate & Preserve Your Wealth
281-486-4144
16830 Royal Crest Drive Houston, TX 77058 www.mjdixoncpa.com Securities offered through H.D. Vest Investment Services . Member SIPC Advisory Services offered through H.D. Vest Advisory Services . 6333 North Highway 161, Fourth Floor, Irving Texas 75038, (972) 870-6000 SM
SM
Transportation Funding – Continue existing transportation funding mechanisms, including toll roads, and index outdated funding sources to keep up with inflation and provide local governments the option to propose funding options for infrastructure projects requiring approval by voters. We also ask to prioritize freight projects and develop a sustainable funding source for multi-modal infrastructure. Advocacy is a major part of our role here in the Clear Lake Area and we value the participation of every community leader and advocate. For more information call 281-488-7676 or visit www.clearlakearea.com.
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES The Clear Lake area offers employment at all skill levels and educational attainment. The Texas Workforce Commission provides free job search services to anyone looking for work and can be reached at 800-832-2829.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
73
In this section Museum District Parks & Attractions Dining Scene Sports & Golf Arts & Culture
74
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
LEISURE & RECREATION
There are so many things to do in the Clear Lake Area, just keeping up is an activity. Everywhere you go fun is just around the corner…beyond a bridge…on the beach…atop a tree…in a music hall. Developing a coastal attitude here comes naturally.
ARTS AND CULTURE Among communities of this size, few match the Clear Lake Area’s quality performing and visual arts offerings. Symphony, band, choral, ballet and theater groups offer excellent entertainment. The City of Nassau Bay is home to the Clear Creek Country Theatre and the Clear Lake Symphony. Making its performing home at the University of Houston Clear Lake is the first-rate Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre.
SHOPPING If your favorite way to pass time is shopping then Clear Lake is the place to be! From designer clothing to bargains, “Buy Into Bay Area” is the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce’s motto.
Factory outlets and discount stores make bargain hunting fun. The VF Outlet Mall in La Marque and the Tanger Outlet Center in Texas City offer deeply discounted merchandise from brand name retailers. The malls draw shoppers from across the region. Recently expanded Baybrook Mall has more than 1.7 million square feet; the mall has a wealth of retail services, a movie theater, restaurants and an outdoor lawn intended for special events. Baybrook ranks second to Houston’s The Galleria in retail sales per square foot. The cities each have an abundance of shops and stores selling ethnic treasures and regional favorites. Old Seabrook is a favorite shopping spot for collectible art, antiques
and specialty shops. Kemah also has an arts and crafts district and the shops at the Boardwalk. The interesting mix of shops in League City’s historical district is another spot for one-of-a kind pieces.
WATER SPORTS The location on the Texas Gulf Coast provides plenty of opportunity for boating, fishing, water sports, birding, bicycling, hiking and more. Residents enjoy 70 miles of Gulf Coast beaches that are all within an hour’s drive. Galveston Bay fishing trips are popular with families and businesses. Clear Lake is a 1,728-acre body of water that feeds into Galveston and Trinity Bays. 19 marinas offer more than 7,000 slips. Waterways have ample boat launches and access to
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75
L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
Photo Courtesy of Children’s Museum of Houston
Clear Lake and the Gulf of Mexico. There are well maintained public boat launches on NASA Road 1, Egret Bay Blvd., and at the Kemah-Seabrook Bridge. Many of the launch areas have picnic tables and campsites, bathrooms with showers and other convenience facilities. Both power and sailing vessels are available for charter and short-term rental along with jet skis, wind surfers, canoes, and water skiing equipment that can be rented on an
Photos Courtesy of Visit Houston Texas
hourly basis. Sailing continues to grow in popularity, evidenced by the number of catamarans, sailboards and other small vessels on the lake. The Gulf Coast’s yields of Red Snapper, Bass, Trout, Flounder and other catches make fishing an adventure. Inland catches are among the best in the United States Resident fishing licenses are modestly priced and are sold at most sporting goods stores. The state also offers lifetime
licenses. Contact Texas Parks and Wildlife at 512-389-4800 or visit online at www.tpwd.state.tx.us.
HUNTING Deer, turkey, quail, duck and dove are plentiful in Texas. Resident hunting and combination (hunting/fishing) licenses are nominally priced. Seniors pay a reduced fee. Contact the Texas Parks and Recreation Department at 641-357-5267.
M U S E U M DIS TR IC T 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
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is proud to educate the public and preserve and promote the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America’s Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present. Here, you can find workshops, youth outreach programs and exhibits about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service. Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store, Mexican village, puppet show and an infant play area are all under one roof. The fun-filled hands on experience at the
Children’s Museum of Houston will not leave
Holocaust, remembering the 6 million
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents
anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place
Jews and other innocent victims and
its exceptional exhibitions and installations
for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.
honoring the survivors’ legacy. The Holo-
to Houston residents and visitors alike. The
caust Museum Houston has a permanent Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
Museum has numerous collections that fill
exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A
5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org
the galleries year-round embracing every era
Community Remembers,” as well as other
of history from across the globe. Make time
pieces of history.
to visit the Bayou Bend Collection not too far
The
Contemporary
Arts
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
The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org The Menil Collection is an art museum that houses both permanent collection and welcomes special exhibitions. Making art
educational opportunities. Admission is Free.
accessible to all is vital to their mission, so
The Health Museum
programs are free. They hope to educate and
1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004
inspire by being readily accessible to future
www.thehealthmuseum.org
generations.
The Health Museum is Houston’s most
The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH)
interactive
and
most
visited
science
learning center and a member institution
no admission fee is charged and all public
1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org
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, Houston, 77204 www.blafferartmuseum.org Blaffer Art Museum helps the community to engage in contemporary art through exhibitions, publications and public programs. This art museum is free, and open to the public in an effort to promote participation in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.
of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. Popular exhibits include: DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion and the McGovern 4D Theater. The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org As one of the most heavily attended museums in the United States, the Houston Museum of Natural Science (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 permanent exhibit areas that examine astronomy, space science, Native
American
culture,
paleontology,
energy, chemistry, gems and minerals, Texas wildlife and more. Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org The
Holocaust
Museum
Houston
is
dedicated to educating people about the
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PARKS &
ATTRACTIONS The Clear Lake Area is filled with natural beauty and a plethora of fun activities and attractions that are sure to appeal to all.
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
CL E AR LA K E & S U R R O UNDING A REA A TTRA CTIONS Armand Bayou Nature Center
or Dash, the professional men’s and
George Ranch Historical Park
www.abnc.org; 281-474-2551
women’s soccer teams.
www.georgeranch.org
Armand Bayou Nature Center, the largest
Visitors will get a taste of why Houston is
Located on a 20,000-acre working ranch,
urban
wilderness
named the Culinary and Cultural Capital
this 460-acre living history park includes
preserve in the United States covers 2,500
of the South with nearly 20 restaurants in
historic homes, costumed interpreters and
acres adjacent to NASA/JSC. One of the
the immediate vicinity. With events, festi-
livestock. Tracing history that began in
last undeveloped bayous in Texas, Armand
vals and other programs taking place along
1824, it is open daily. Special events such as
Bayou is one of only four Texas Coastal
Avenida de las Americas it’s becoming the
the Texian Market Days Festival and Spring
Preserves. Some 40,000 visitors annually
in-place to meet and play.
Break activities are offered year round.
Battleship Texas and San Jacinto
Gulf Greyhound Park
Monument Museum
www.gulfgreyhound.com; 409-986-9500
wildlife
refuge
and
benefit from educational tours, exhibits, events and classes. More than 1,000 acres of wetland habitat
www.sanjacinto-museum.org At Gulf Greyhound Park, the world’s largest
and approximately 600 acres of prairie offer a refuge for 370 species of birds, mammals,
Battleship Texas is anchored at the 1,200-
and
reptiles and amphibians including white-
acre San Jacinto Battleground State Historic
complex (just south of Clear Lake), the fast-
tailed deer, armadillos, swamp rabbits,
Site where visitors can experience history
paced action runs all year, rain or shine, with
bobcats, coyotes, venomous and non-ven-
first-hand. The only surviving combat ship
air-conditioned comfort on all four levels.
omous snakes, turtles, alligators and frogs.
to have served in both World Wars, the
This unique entertainment offers the thrill
Visitors enjoy the melody of songbirds, such
Battleship Texas became the first memorial
of greyhound racing and the excitement of
as warblers, flycatchers, orioles and painted
museum of its kind in the United States and
pari-mutual wagering (for those 21 and older).
buntings, and the cry of birds-of-prey, such
is permanently anchored on the Houston
as osprey, owls and kites.
Ship Channel. The Battleship Texas program
most
successful
greyhound
racing
provides many recreational and educational The broad diversity of flora and fauna is due
experiences for visitors as well as numerous
to the intermingling of three distinct ecosys-
programs and self-guided tours. 281-479-2431
tems – forest, prairie and bayou. Visitors can escape the stress of urban life by hiking six
Bayou Wildlife Park
trails, delighting in the joys of bird watching
www.bayouwildlifezoo.com; 281-337-6376
or reliving the past at a recreated farm.
Feed animals and birds from Africa, India,
Avenida Houston at Discovery Green
Asia, Australia and South America. An
www.avenidahouston.com
adventure-filled tram ride takes you over 86 acres of natural habitat.
“Avenida” comes from Avenida de las Americas, the boulevard that fronts the
The Butler Longhorn Museum
George
www.butlerlonghornmuseum.com
R.
Brown
Convention
Center
(GRBCC). The 97,000-square-foot Avenida Green’s
The Butler Longhorn Museum in League
12-acre park, public art installations, and
City is a unique cultural attraction for
two convention headquarter hotels; the
tourists, displaying western art, music,
Hilton Americas-Houston and the Marriott
Longhorn artifacts and Texas histor-
Marquis Houston.
ical items. This Longhorn Museum is
Houston
includes
Discovery
the first of its kind and is expected to Avenida Houston skirts Houston’s active
be included in the Guinness Book of
Sports
and
Records for the world’s largest Longhorn
Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston
history collection. For more informa-
Rockets, Houston Astros and dozens of
tion, scheduling events, memberships or
annual concerts. A few short blocks away,
volunteer opportunities please contact
soccer fans can see the Houston Dynamo
blmmembers@aol.com or 281-332-1393
District;
Toyota
Center
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
Aerial photo of Galveston, Texas
Historic League City www.leaguecityhistory.org The Historic District of League City features quaint homes and businesses along a picturesque tree-lined boulevard (FM 518). Many of the restored buildings date back to the late1800’s. Historical Bay Area Museum www.museumbayarea.org Built in 1901, the Bay Area Museum and chapel at 5000 NASA Road 1 provide the community with an interesting look at local history, and an opportunity to visit a restored, turn of the century church. The building, once the Webster Presbyterian Church, was moved to Clear Lake Park in 1981. Visits are free. 281-326-5950 Houston Arboretum and Nature Center and Memorial Park www.houstontx.gov Memorial Park, opened in 1924, is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and covers approximately 1,466 acres inside the 610 Loop. The 18-hole Memorial Park Golf Course, Texas’ top-rated municipal golf course, lies at the heart of the park along with tennis courts, softball fields, swimming center, track, croquet, volleyball, skating, and cycling. The most famous feature of the park is the 2.93 mile
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running course of crushed granite and is probably the most popular in Houston with almost 3 million visits annually. The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, an arboretum and botanical garden, is located within the park on 155 acres. The Nature Center holds classes and hosts events. Houston Zoo www.houstonzoo.org The Houston Zoo had a record year for attendance in 2016, welcoming 2,550,453 million visitors and maintaining its elite position as the second-most-attended US zoo with a paid admission. The zoo’s multiple seasonal and permanent attractions like holiday Zoo Lights and the Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit have helped drive attendance. Gorillas of The African Forest gives visitors the opportunity to observe gorillas in a lush forest setting adjacent to the existing chimpanzee habitat. The Houston Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive. Kemah Boardwalk www.kemahboardwalk.com; 281-334-3181 “The Fun Never Stops” at the Kemah Boardwalk. A carnival midway filled
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
with rides and amusements, great restaurants, a hotel, and marina are the main attractions. The interesting shops that line the boardwalk offer everything from souvenirs to fine art. Holiday events, festivals, exhibits, and live entertainment throughout the year draw an estimated 3 million visitors. Experience the excitement of Stingray Reef, where you can touch and feed live stingrays. Discover these deep-water dwellers up close and personal. The boardwalk is family entertainment at its best in the Clear Lake Area. 281-334-9880 Lone Star Flight Museum www.lonestarflight.org The Lone Star Flight Museum is a 501(c) (3) aviation museum and STEM learning center with a mission to preserve, educate and inspire. Led by CEO Lt. Gen. (ret) Douglas H. Owens, LSFM’s new $38 million state of the art facility at Houston’s Ellington Airport opened September 16, 2017. In addition to the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame, the 130,000 square foot facility houses the Museum’s renowned flying collection of historic aircraft, a $1 million, high-tech Aviation Learning Center and dynamic hands-on exhibits. LSFM’s vision is to be a world-class educational museum linking an understanding of the past with inspiration for the future.
Moody Gardens
Houston Ship Channel. Embarking from
www.moodygardens.org; 800-582-4673
the port’s Sam Houston Landing, visiting sightseers can enjoy passing views of
A tropical destination for families and groups.
international cargo vessels, and opera-
Explore the all new Rainforests of the World
tions at the port’s Turning Basin Terminal.
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. Old Seabrook www.seabrooktx.gov; 281-474-3869 Stroll among antique, craft and gift shops. Enjoy refreshments in the tearooms and restaurants of this quaint shopping district near Galveston Bay. Port of Houston Boat Tour porthouston.com/sam-houston-boat-tour
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 Sailaway Clear Lake Charters www.sailawaycat.com Escape the ordinary. Enjoy the wind, waves and sunshine; have fun with family and friends on a Kemah sailing adventure or how about a relaxing, romantic sail to tell someone how much you love them under the moonlight. A Sailing Adventure aboard the Sail away cat is designed to give you the most unique sailing adventure
Port of The Houston offers free, 90-minute
that is relaxing and enjoyable and can be
round-trip, educational cruises along the
designed to meet your specific desires.
Photos Courtesy of Visit Houston Texas 156! North American Clubs! ■ 1500+ Boats! • No Maintenance! • FREE Training!
Over 170 Locations! • 1500+ Boats! • No Maintenance! • FREE Training!
We Own WeBoats Own the the Boats You Get You Get Unlimited Use! Unlimited Use! 281-474-5253 freedomboatclub com 281-474-5253 freedomboatclub com
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
San Jacinto Monument & Museum www.sanjacinto-museum.org 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 Center Houston www.spacecenter.org Space Center Houston is the visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the area’s only Smithsonian affiliate. Houston’s No. 1 attraction for international visitors, Space Center Houston emphasizes engaging educational exhibits in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It offers permanent and special exhibits, attractions, theaters and seasonal camps for kids. Waterfront Dining Fine restaurants and waterfront clubs on Galveston Bay and throughout the Clear
Lake Area offer an outstanding variety of cuisine: seafood and steaks, Mexican, Italian, German, Cajun and Oriental, to mention only a few. Boat watching, while dining at the restaurants along the channel is fun and relaxing. Webster Gateway Browse this eclectic shopping district for fine art, gourmet foods, crafts, fine jewelry and books. Visit many fine restaurants. 281-332-1826. Bay Area Park Bay Area Park is a 64.3 acre park overlooking Armand Bayou. Among the tall trees you can picnic by the duck pond or walk along the flagstone trails and gazebo in the Oasis garden. Launch your canoe and paddle along the historic Armand Bayou. There is a variety of playground structures, baseball and softball fields, and tennis courts. Bring your dogs and visit Precinct 2’s first dog park.
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equipment, various sports fields and 0.5 mile jogging trail, community center and open air pavilion. There is also an ancient Indian burial ground believed to be ancestors to the Akokisa Indians dating between 600 and 900 A.D. Also discovered was shell median dating back to 1476 B.C. To learn more visit the Harris County Boys’ School Archeological Site Marker.Spray park is open 1st Saturday in April thru last Saturday in October. Walter Hall Park This is a Galveston County community park. In addition to a vast green space it includes baseball and soccer fields, tennis courts, inside pavilion, picnic areas, playground, practice backstops, a boat ramp and pier. Community events are held here throughout the year. Sylvan Beach Park Sylvan Beach Park is a 31.4 acre park located just east of South Highway 146 in La Porte.
Clear Lake Park
Along with conventional park amenities
Clear Lake Park is a 59 acre park located southeastern Harris County. The south side of the park offers traditional park amenities as well as a boat launch and fishing pier. The North side of the park offers playground
pay-to-fish pier. Enjoy the two pristine white
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
you will find a skate park, boat ramp and a sand beaches and swim in Galveston Bay. This historic park was once known as the Grove, has been a driving force for the city’s economy since 1893.
Delicious
DINING SCENE The Clear Lake Area encompasses many great cities such as Kemah, League and Webster, to name a few, and they all have a variety of delicious dining options to fit any taste.
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L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N
1,000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza ............................................ 281-250-9877
Photo courtesy of Eric Pohl
Aquarium Restaurant ............................................ 281-334-9010 Avenida Brazil .............................................281-557-9999 BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery .............................................281-316-3037 Brewingz -Nassau Bay .............................................832-864-3200 Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. .............................................281-334-2881 Cadillac Bar & Grill .............................................281-334-9049 Carrabba’s Italian Grill .............................................281-338-0574 Casa Anita’s Mexican Restaurant .............................................281-326-2200 Chick-fil-A at El Dorado Blvd. .............................................281-488-1112 Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack .............................................281-334-5000
East Star Restaurant .............................................281-280-8822 The Flying Dutchman Restaurant & Oyster Bar .............................................281-334-7575
Franca’s Real Italian Restaurant .............................................281-488-2207 Frenchie’s .............................................281-486-7144 Fuddruckers .............................................281-333-1598 Gatti’s Pizza .............................................281-480-4800 Gio’s Flying Pizza & Pasta .............................................281-337-0107 Habanero’s Mayan Kitchen .............................................281-474-4400 Hamburgers by Gourmet .............................................281-333-3336 Hilton Houston NASA Clear Lake .............................................281-333-9300 Hubcap Grill - Kemah ............................................281-339-7116 Jackie’s Brickhouse ............................................ 832-864-2459 Jason’s Deli ............................................ 281-338-8000 Jersey Mike’s Subs ............................................ 832-905-2985 Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches Bay Area.............................281-316-2222 Nassau Bay.........................281-335-1210 Joe Lee’s Seafood Kitchen Restaurant .............................................281-535-0148
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
Joe’s Bar-B-Que .............................................281-331-9626
MOD Pizza .............................................281-954-2050
Rudy’s “Country Store” & Bar-B-Q .............................................281-338-0462
La Brisa on the Creek .............................................281-554-4000
Molly’s Pub .............................................281-486-0971
Landry’s Kemah Waterfront .............................................281-334-2513
Neptune Subs .............................................281-474-3973
Salata - Nassau Bay .............................................281-532-6988
Lighthouse Buffet .............................................281-334-3360
Opus Ocean Grille ........................................... 281-334-0006
Luby’s .............................................281-335-8400
Outback Steakhouse .............................................281-338-6283
Luby’s Fuddruckers .............................................281-724-2692
Panera Bread .............................................281-286-3273
Luna’s Mexican Restaurant ........................................... 281-334-0300
Papa John’s Pizza .............................................281-286-0770
Maggiano’s Little Italy Baybrook .............................................281-282-9729
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille .............................................281-286-8800
Mamacita’s Mexican Restaurant .............................................281-332-5362
Preamble Lounge and Crafthouse .............................................832-905-2927
Mario’s Flying Pizza & Italian Restaurant .............................................281-474-5103
Red Lobster .............................................281-338-2518
Saltgrass Steak House .............................................281-538-5441 Space City Takeout .............................................713-422-2886 Thai Spice Rice & Noodle House .............................................281-554-6800 Tommy’s Restaurant Oyster Bar .............................................281-480-2221 Tree House .............................................281-286-8956 Twin Peaks .............................................734-341-6859 Victor’s Deli II .............................................281-984-7119
McAlister’s Deli .............................................281-554-7720
Red River BBQ & Grill .............................................281-332-8086
Wael’s Mediterranean Cuisine .............................................281-286-1110
Mediterraneo Market & Cafe .............................................281-333-3180
Rogers Bar and Grill .............................................281-334-1110
Zoe’s Kitchen .............................................713-301-1420
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SPORTS & GOLF
The Clear Lake and surrounding area 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. 86
CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
The Houston Astros
The Houston Rockets
www.astros.com
www.houstonrockets.com
Part of the West Division of Major
The Houston Rockets are the city’s profes-
League Baseball’s American League, the
sional
Houston Astros are on a roll. Currently
team playing in the Southwest Division of
the winningest team in baseball, the
the Western Conference. Two-time world
team and its fans are having a lot of fun.
basketball champions, the Rockets are
Playing in Minute Maid Park, one of the
regular challengers in playoff action and
country’s few stadiums with a retract-
always provide exciting end-to-end action
able roof, the team serves up entertaining
in the Toyota Center. Many star players
baseball action at home about 80 times
have passed through the team’s roster over
over the course of the season. Fans enjoy
its almost-fifty-year history and now James
gourmet hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex
Hardin and the rest have launched the
GOLF
fare and many other delectable choices
Rockets back into competitive contention.
Winters in Houston are mild and temperate,
National
Basketball
Association
while enjoying the game. Around the
Photos courtesy of the Houston Texans
with the average high in January (the coldest
park, many restaurants, clubs and music
The Houston Texans
venues hop, especially on game day.
www.houstontexans.com
The Houston Dynamo
Football is huge in Texas and the Texans are
www.houstondynamo.com
huge in Houston. In their 16th season, this
month) at 62.9°F and the average low at 43.2°F. There are over 200 days of sunshine,
NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012 Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Hous-
and 2015 AFC South Division Champions.
ton’s Major League Soccer Team. The
Head coach Bill O’Brien and owner Bob
team name is reflective, in part, of
McNair have put together an exciting roster
Houston: an energetic, hard-working,
that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and
risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007
new up-and-comers, like Deshaun Watson.
MLS Champions, fans have lots to cheer
so Houston is a golfer’s paradise. 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.
about as this team continues to rank
Sunday football is celebrated in NRG
well both at home and internationally.
stadium cheering on the team, tailgating with
The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass
friends in the parking lot before and after the
In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA
Stadium, an architecturally acclaimed
game, at many sports bars around town, or in
professionals and First Tee Programs are
venue, located east of downtown
front of your own television. Go Texans!
offered throughout the greater Houston area.
C L E A R L A K E & S U R RO U N D I N G A R E A G O L F C O U R S E S Battleground at Deer Park
281-478-4653
www.battlegroundgolfcourse.com
Bay Oaks Country Club (Private)
281-488-7888
www.clubcorp.com
Beacon Lake Golf Club
281-337-1459
www.beaconlakesgolf.com
Clear Creek Golf Club
713-738-8000
www.clearcreekgolfclub.com
Pearland Golf Club at Country Place
713-773-9603
www.pearlandgolfclub.com
Magnolia Creek Golf Links
281-557-0555
www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/Magnolia-Creek-South-Shore
Sienna Plantation Golf Club
281-778-4653
www.siennagolf.com
South Shore Harbour Country Club
281-334-0525
www.sshr.com
Southwyck Golf Club, Pearland
713-436-9999
www.southwyckgc.com
Wildcat Golf Club
713-413-3400
www.wildcatgolfclub.com
Wilderness Golf Course
979-297-4653
www.thewildernessgc.com
Timber Creek Golf Club
281-993-1140
www.timbercreekgolfclub.com
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ARTS, CULTURE s n o i t c a r t t &A
The theater district is an impressive cultural and entertainment center; features nine world renowned performing arts organizations, and many smaller ones, in four venues – Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.
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CLEAR LAKE AREA NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1
T HE AT E R DIS TR IC T Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org One of America’s leading not-for-profit theatres calls the Houston Theater District Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing in productions of the classics, modern plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces more performances than all other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings first-class entertainment and cultural enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series. Houston Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environment, Houston Grand Opera entertains with their innovative programs, community events and educational projects. Houston Grand Opera has a solid reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 56 world premieres and seven American premieres since 1973. Stop in and visit and see why Houston Grand Opera has toured extensively, including trips to Europe and Asia, and is the only opera company to have
won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards. Houston Symphony 615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org The Houston Symphony’s mission is to “inspire and engage a large diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.” By 2025, the Houston Symphony aims to be one of America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestras. Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually. Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com Founded in 1975 and has been opening doors for locals of all ages to engage in the performing arts. They offer classes for children and adults and hold performances by both local authors and established writers. Stages Repertory Theatre 3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in the region that offers year-round employment
for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres. Society for FINE the Performing Arts www.spahouston.org The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities. Wortham Theater Center 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.
HOUSTON BALLET 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 • www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as contemporary works. This company attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy whose instruction levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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ad index BANKS/CREDIT UNIONS
EVENT & CONFERENCE CENTERS
ACU of Texas Associated Credit Union............................ 27
Plantation On The Bay....................................................... 14
BancorpSouth®................................................................... 17
South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center ..... 21
Beacon Federal Credit Union........................................... 69 JSC Federal Credit Union.................................................. 70
FOOD & BEVERAGE
One Trust Home Loans....................................................... 23
Luna’s Mexican Restaurant & Catering.......................... 84
Shared Resources Credit Union........................................ 71
Opus Ocean Grille............................................................. 85
Texas Citizens Bank............................................................. 51
San Luis Spirits Distilling Co. LLC.............Inside Back Cover
Texan Bank.......................................................................... 13
NEW HOME BUILDER LGI Homes - Terrata Homes................................................. 3
CAR DEALERSHIPS & AUTO REPAIR Ron Carter Clear Lake....................................................... 17 Space Center Automotive............................................... 29 Norman Frede Chevrolet.................................................. 28
CITIES & CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE City of Kemah..................................................................... 15 City of League City.................................Inside Front Cover Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce...................... 31 League City Regional Chamber of Commerce............ 12
EDUCATION Brazosport College............................................................. 41 Brazosport ISD..................................................................... 35 Distinct Abilities................................................................... 36 Odyssey Academy ........................................................... 37 Primrose Schools of Pearland........................................... 39 St. Thomas The Apostle Episcopal School....................... 40 University of Houston Clear Lake...................................... 43
ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION
HEALTHCARE Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids........................... 62 Brookdale Clear Lake Independent Living..................... 58 CHI St. Luke’s Health, Pasadena...................................... 61 Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital..........Back Cover Houston Methodist Medical Center................................ 59 MD Anderson Cancer Center............................................ 5 PAM Rehabiltation Hospital.............................................. 63 UTMB Health.......................................................................... 1 UTMB Pediatrics.................................................................. 65 Visiting Angels..................................................................... 62
REAL ESTATE AGENTS / BROKERAGES Innovate Real Estate, David Moore................................. 23 Premier Properties of Texas............................................... 16
SENIOR LIVING Brookdale Clear Lake Independent Living..................... 64
WORSHIP Clear Lake United Methodist Church.............................. 55
UTILITIES & SERVICES Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP ................................................. 51 CenterPoint Energy ........................................................... 49
Bay Oaks Country Club..................................................... 23
Lone Star Delivery & Process ............................................ 48
Houston Dynamo............................................................... 77
Mackey Mechanical Air Conditioning Services............. 22
Freedom Boat Club........................................................... 81
Mary Jane Dixon CPA, CFP............................................... 73
Lakewood Yacht Club....................................................... 79
re:3D - 3D Printing............................................................... 73
The Old Parsonage Guest House..................................... 82
Space Center Automotive............................................... 29
Schlitterbahn Galveston Island ........................................ 45
Whitley Penn Accounting & Tax Services........................ 20
To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
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OUR COMMITMENT TO THE CLEAR LAKE AREA
Houston Methodist Clear Lake is growing to meet our community’s needs. Our expansion includes new specialized services, as well as the most advanced technology and procedures available, to ensure patients receive the highest quality treatment and care — right here in our community. We offer: • • • • • •
Advanced imaging Breast Care Center Cancer Center Cardiovascular care Emergency services Neurology
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Orthopedics and sports medicine Primary care Urology and urogynecology Weight loss surgery Women’s services
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HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE GROUP 2351
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Visit houstonmethodist.org/clearlake or call 281.333.8899 to schedule an appointment.
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HOUSTON METHODIST CLEAR LAKE HOSPITAL HOUSTON METHODIST
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LEAGUE CITY
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HOUSTON METHODIST PHYSICIAN CLINICS