Our name has changed, but our values remain the same. Recently, Kingwood Medical Center’s name changed to HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood.
Four-Time Recipient of an ‘A’ in Patient Safety
About The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade
Our goal is to provide exceptional care to every patient at every
The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade
hospital. “Care. Above all else.” represents our commitment to patient-
is the only hospital rating focused
centered care through our communities, convenient and comprehensive
exclusively on hospital safety.
care access points, industry-shaping advances and best practices, and
Its A, B, C, D or F letter grades are a
collaboration with physicians and nursing.
quick way for consumers to choose
At our hospital, we care like family.
For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit HCAhoustonhealthcare.com/kingwood K-19-005_6.07.19
the safest hospital to seek care.
Home of America’s Greatest Eighteen Holes!
• • • •
Daily Fee Public Golf 18 Hole Championship Course Dining and Drinks in the Scoring Tent Grill Charity and Corporate Golf Outings
• Special Events in the Legends Hall • Full Service Golf Shop These are the sacred hallowed halls of golf, where men like Hogan, Palmer, Nicklaus and Woods etched their names into the soul of the game. From the Church Pews to the War Bunker around Amen Corner and onto the Island Green, we have painstakingly reproduced the most renowned holes in the history of golf. Imagine you and your guest playing the holes that have determined the outcome of tournaments like the U.S. Open, The Masters, the Tour Championship and the PGA Championship.
WWW.TOUR18GOLF.COM | 281-540-1818 | 3102 FM 1960 EAST | HUMBLE, TX 77338
contents | features
12 28 57 58
SPOTLIGHT: Inner Loop Living in Houston Public, Private & Higher Education in Northeast Houston Major Northeast Area Employers
PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: Visit Houston Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Houston’s Active Lifestyle & Recreation Activities
Memorial Hermann Northeast St Martha’s Catholic School The Art Car Museum The Covenant Preparatory School The Groves
EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Joy Oden Cecile Adams
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© WEB Media Group LLC 2020 Northeast Houston Newcomer Guide 2020 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.
contents | sections WELCOME TO NORTHEAST HOUSTON • 8
8
HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 16 17 Cities & Neighborhoods 18 Master-Planned Communities
HOME FRONT • 20
20
21 Home Ownership 24 Choosing a Realtor 25 Mortgage Options 26 Credit Reports 27 Houston Cost of Living
EDUCATION IN NORTHEAST HOUSTON • 28 30 STEM
Phone: 512-266-2900 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com CEO Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Adams ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Jill Roe
30 Public Schools
28
32 Private Schools 36 Higher Education
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 38 39 Moving Companies 40 Services & Utilities 41 Public Transportation
38
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Paul Yarbrough Candi Thomas SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón Northeast Houston Newcomer and Relocation Guide is published and distributed bi-annually by WEB Media
42 Airports 44 International Relocation
Group LLC For advertising information, please call 512-266-2900.
46 Places of Worship
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 50 51 Area Hospitals 52 Moving Medical Tips
BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 54
58
55 Area Associations 56 Houston by the Numbers 57 Major Employers
Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication. WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.
LEISURE + RECREATION • 58 60 Parks & Attractions 63 Arts and Culture 66 Sports and Golf 69 Calendar of Events 4
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752 Phone: 512-266-2900 www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
WELCOME TO THE
LAKE HOUSTON AREA! Whether you are a new resident or just visiting, you too will soon be caught up in the pride we all have for this dynamic group of communities. The diverse communities comprising the Lake Houston Area offer a unique and attractive quality of life. The Lake Houston Area also includes Humble, Kingwood, Fall Creek, Summerwood, and Spring. Longtime residents and established businesses have created an irresistible character. Organized sports for the kids, a number of excellent golf courses, lush parks, and water sports on Lake Houston are only a few of the recreational opportunities in the area. Festivals, concerts, numerous restaurants, and theatres are a sampling of local entertainment. The ease of transportation attracts many people to relocate in the Lake Houston Area. Bush Intercontinental Airport, the gateway to Houston and international destinations, is minutes away. US Highway 59 is one of the most accessible freeways in the Houston and the recent completion of the northeast section of Beltway 8 makes traveling to anywhere in the Houston area quicker and easier. Our school districts and Lone Star College-Kingwood consistently earn top ratings in the state. In 2015 Humble ISD was name “Best Large School District in Texas� at the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program. We have outstanding medical facilities and churches of all denominations. The Lake Houston Area is great place to live, work, and play. Please come by the Lake Houston Area Chamber office at 110 W. Main Street in downtown Humble, and we will provide you information that will make you want to become a part of this dynamic community.
JENNA ARMSTRONG, IOM President and CEO - The Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce
110 West Main, Humble, TX 77338 281-446-2128 | Fax 281-446-7483 www.lakehouston.org
WELCOME TO
NORTHEAST HOUSTON The Intercontinental Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is one of the most unique chambers in TEXAS! ICC has been the organization that motivates, organizes and directs the efforts in our business community for 30 years. ICC members range from small entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies, which consist of thousands of employees. Our membership also includes several foreign consulates and members from numerous countries such as Mexico, China, Malta, Canada, Japan, and United Kingdom, just to list a few. In addition, ICC has offices in the Galleria, The Woodlands, Stafford, Mexico, Malta, Italy, Russia, Germany, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Poland, Ukraine, UAE-Dubai, and China. What makes us unique…ICC has created the Houston Community & Economic Development Center with the following ON-SITE services: • Chamber of Commerce
• Malta Commercial Office
• Polo Club
• Economic Development Council
• Marketing Call Center
• On-Site Photography & Film Studio
• Business Incubator/ Accelerator Offices
• Multi-location Video Conference Room
• On-Site Language Classes
• Executive Suites for Office Rental
• Certificates of Origin & Notary Service
• Texas Workforce Commission Office
• International Document Translation
• US Department of Commerce Office
• Passport and Travel Visa processing
• SBA-Small Business Development
• Country Club Partnership with
Center Office
NorthGate & Walden Country Club
• Credit Card Processing Merchant Services • Inpat & Expat Corporate & Employee Financial & Relocation Services
• ProMexico Commercial Office
• Business & Investor Brokerage Services
• Cloud Services
• Training & Conference Rooms
• Exclusive Partnership with the Houston
• Executive Car/ Transportation Services.
HICC membership and programs result in a ROI for your membership dollars. We hope you will become one of our partners so we can grow your business together.
REGGIE GRAY President - Houston Intercontinental Chamber of Commerce
12700 Northborough, 6th Floor Houston, TX 77067 Local: 281-408-0866 | Galleria: 281-408-4382 Toll Free: 855-839-4422 | www.houstonicc.org
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WELCOME FROM
KINGWOOD A Special Hometown Community!
Over 80-miles of wooded jogging and biking trails wind excitedly through nearly 30 deed-restricted communities. Together these communities are considered the jewel of northeast Houston. As a master planned development we were able to place numerous conveniences found in few communities in the world. While doing so we have strategically placed our buildings of commerce gracefully among our forest so that seldom will you see a wire or a tower, even while you drive or walk only feet away from them. Does that mean we don’t have modern facilities? No, as a matter of fact our multi-company fiber optic offerings allow Kingwood Businesses to be on the cutting edge of high-speed data access while providing them a vital connection to local and global markets. Over 83,500 residents and businesses call Kingwood their home. Kingwood is located only 23 minutes North from downtown Houston on Highway 59, and only 14 minutes North from Bush Intercontinental Airport. Kingwood is not only close to these important business sectors, but also in close proximity to the Beltway or around the 610 loop, allowing for an easy commute to World-Class shopping, eating and the Houston Ship Channel. The Clubs of Kingwood is located within the Kingwood area, and is known for being the shooting location for the hit movie Tin Cup. Not only is location and entertainment key to the success of the Kingwood area, the fact that it is full of incredible business people waiting to serve you and your needs makes Kingwood an instrumental player in the Houston area market. That brings us back to welcoming you. If you would like to join us as we step deeper into the 21st century together, please drop us a line, give us a call, or simply come visit. There is plenty to do in Kingwood besides great eating, great golfing, great shopping, great fun, and great living. But we guess that is enough to call Kingwood a real home. Welcome to the Front Door of our Beautiful Community and to the Kingwood Chamber of Commerce.
SPARKY NOLAN President/CEO - Kingwood Chamber of Commerce
804 Russell Palmer Road Kingwood, TX 77339 281-360-4321 | Fax: 281-883-0018 www.kwchamber.org
In this section welcome recreation culture shopping & entertainment
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to e m o c l e W
NORTHEAST HOUSTON People are moving to Northeast Houston. Set along the banks of Lake Houston, the San Jacinto River, and nestled among the thick Pineywood Forest, this area offers residents a healthy lifestyle in the great outdoors.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON IS NATURALLY HOME Since the invention of air conditioning, the greater Houston area has continued to grow. Today, it is the fourth largest metropolitan area in the United States, with nearly 7 million people, and more people are moving here every day. They are moving because there is work. Houston has a diverse economy with many academic institutions and strong biomed-
any city in the U.S., and the vibrant arts and
improved and extended. Many businesses
dining scenes reflect that.
are in outlying hubs such as The Woodlands,
They are moving because the weather is fine. While it can get hot and humid in the
Greenspoint and Kingwood, so people can often choose to live close to work.
summer, (that’s when you’ll be enjoying
People are moving to Northeast Houston.
that air conditioning), the rest of the year is
Set along the banks of Lake Houston, the
temperate and often sunny.
San Jacinto River, and nestled among the
They are moving because living is affordable in Houston due to home prices and their stability. The area is not restricted by excessive regulations or natural barriers to
thick Pineywood Forest, this area offers residents a healthy lifestyle in the great outdoors. Not only can they play in and on the area’s lakes and rivers, they can also
ical, manufacturing, aerospace, and energy
development, and an extensive road system
appreciate the natural world at a variety of
industries. While Houston’s overall economy
means all neighborhoods are easily accessed.
lovely parks, or try the many golf courses in the area. Excellent historic and cultural
has slowed recently, it is showing encouraging signs of righting itself and regaining
They are moving because even though
museums, and fine performing arts venues
its traditional upward trajectory.
the Greater Houston area stretches over
also offer entertainment.
627 square-miles, it’s easy to get around People are moving because Houston is home
using the freeways, toll roads, HOV lanes
The communities of Northeast Houston are
to the most ethnically diverse population of
and METRO routes which are constantly
approximately 20-30 miles from downtown
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WELCOME TO NORTHEAST HOUSTON
The area offers everything from quaint
pools, tennis courts and handy access to
cabins, modest houses in sleepy lakeside
other recreational facilities.
towns, waterfront lake houses, apartments and rental properties to award-winning
The Humble Independent School District
homes in master-planned communities and
provides
estates set on rolling acreages.
Atascocita children. Adults can continue
quality
public
education
for
to learn at any one of 30 colleges within 50 With the opportunity for play on Lake
miles of Atascocita.
Houston or the San Jacinto River, the beauty of the pine-filled woods, the easy
HUMBLE
access to the airport, the Port of Houston,
About 20-miles from downtown Houston,
signature shopping and downtown, North-
about 16,000 people call Humble home
east Houston has it all. The area also has
(and when they do, they drop the “H”).
exemplary schools, abundant quality health care and a rich variety of housing options.
Humble is prospering because it creates
There’s room for your family, too.
a welcoming environment for business. Advanced
manufacturing,
healthcare,
LAKE HOUSTON
biotechnology, energy, aerospace and avia-
Created in 1953, Lake Houston is a 12,000-
tion are some of the industries thriving
acre reservoir that provides drinking water
in the area. And if there are jobs, people
and tucked in and around the intersection of
to Houstonians and offers natural and
will come, and the burgeoning number
FM 1960 and U.S. Highway 59 North. Bush
recreational opportunities to many. Boaters,
of homes and amenities reflect that.
Intercontinental Airport, Houston’s primary
swimmers, water and jet skiers skim across
Plus, living in Humble is easy; the city’s
airport, is only seven miles away. The newest
its shiny surface, while fishermen plum its
forested environs include many parks
section of the Grand Parkway, a 180+ mile
depths for catfish, largemouth bass, and
and golf courses, excellent schools, two
circumferential highway, now links north-
bluegill. Around its edges are hikers, bird-
major hospitals and Deerbrook Mall, a
east area residents to The Woodlands, the
watchers, naturalists and folks just looking
one million square-foot development. New
ExxonMobil campus and other destinations.
to get away from the big city.
homes and resale properties range in price
METRO, the regional Metropolitan Transit
from $90,000 to $1,000,000 and up.
Authority, provides a variety of bus routes,
Lake Houston and the areas surrounding it
Park and Ride facilities, light rail and van
are also wonderful places to live.
One of most exciting new communities is The designed to bring residents closer to nature
ping districts.
WEST LAKE HOUSTON & ATASCOCITA Atascocita began in 1757 as a Spanish fort
kind splash pad, playgrounds, wooded trails, a
Businesses and developers have recently
built on Atascocita Trail. Today, the area
Welcome Center for events like fitness classes
been busy in Northeast Houston. Many
is comprised of more than 15 subdivisions
new projects and hundreds of new jobs have
and is one of the fastest growing residen-
sprung up, including those at Generation
tial communities in the nation. It’s easy
Park, a new economic and lifestyle anchor
to see why. Located 18 miles northeast
for the region, which, when complete
of Houston, Atascocita is edged by Lake
will comprise up to 40 million square feet
Houston and has many parks, golf courses,
of innovative office space, leading edge
and country clubs. In fact, the U.S. News
research, medical and life sciences facilities,
and World Report named it one of the “Best
KINGWOOD
education and development campuses, and
Places to Retire.”
The ‘livable forest,’ Kingwood is a planned
pooling assistance to take area residents downtown or to other business and shop-
Groves, an artfully planned neighborhood and each other. Amenities include a one-of-a-
and movie nights, and entertainment planned by a dedicated Lifestyle Director. In this peaceful oasis, among the majestic woods, one might forget that the bustling big city are right nearby. Visit www.thegrovestx.com for more information.
community located 22-miles from down-
new shopping, dining and entertainment attractions. Already more than 2,000 Tech-
Housing options in this community are as
town Houston. It is made up of 14,000-acres
nipFMC employees are at work in their new
varied: new home prices begin in the mid
of beautiful homes, wonderful golf courses
state-of-the art campus.
$100,000 and go up from there. There are
and wooded landscapes. Its 25 villages are
also estates and acreage developments with
connected by a 75-mile greenbelt and a few
And housing starts have also increased,
homes for sale in the millions. Most subdi-
major thoroughfares. Residents enjoy many
offering new families a wide range of options.
visions feature their own parks, swimming
parks, 19 pools, sports centers, tennis courts,
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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a boat launch, two country clubs and many
Educational needs for children are served by
nature trails, a pool and pavilion, white sandy
activities and organizations. Commercial
New Caney ISD, which provides superior
beaches and amenities for boaters.
centers that provide grocery stores, restau-
academics and a wide variety of progressive
rants, medical practices, banks, law offices,
programs. Up the road, Splendora is named
Locals enjoy many festivals and celebrations,
shops and other businesses meet the needs
for the splendor of its trees. Here, you’ll find
swing a golf club a one of the many nearby
of residents, ensuring that they need never
many options for quality living, from acre-
courses, race at the Huffman Motorsports
leave this lovely community.
ages to city lots. The Parkland community
Park, a dirt oval for karts and motorcycles, or
offers a wide range of living options. The
just enjoy beautiful Lake Houston and all it
However, getting to Houston is easy with
town’s children are served by Splendora
has to offer.
Metro Park & Ride, the Metro Bus system
Independent School District.
Highway 59 (I69). The rush-hour commute
All along U.S. Highway 59 is shopping,
CHANNELVIEW AND SHELDON RESERVOIR
is about 45 minutes on the main lanes.
dining and entertainment. And the new and
Channelview is located on the northeastern
expanding Valley Ranch Town Center provides
curve of the Houston Ship Channel and is
many more options for fun and activity.
where some of the most dramatic events
and High Occupancy Vehicle lanes on U.S.
School-aged children in Kingwood are served by the Humble Independent School district and several excellent private schools.
NORTH OF KINGWOOD PORTER
in the formation of Texas occurred; many
EAST OF LAKE HOUSTON CROSBY-HUFFMAN On the east side of Lake Houston are the towns of Crosby and Huffman. Only about a
historic sites are located within minutes. The cozy, tree-lined neighborhoods are close to industrial jobs, retail and commercial centers and downtown Houston. The area features stable, affordable housing ranging from the mid
Just north of Kingwood is Porter which
30-minute drive to central Houston, this area is
was once the seat of Montgomery County,
still picturesque. There are still modest houses
but now it lies within the greater Houston
available for rent or sale, (starting under
area. Previously, a sleepy village that served
$100,000), but new neighborhoods offering
ranges. Like much of the greater Houston area,
the needs of the farm, livestock and timber
custom homes by excellent builders are also
Channelview and nearby communities have
industries, it is now an enchanting place to
springing up.
experienced rapid growth over the last several
$50,000s to more than $500,000. Many apartment homes are available in a variety of price
years and new single-family homes in desirable
live where leafy trails link lovely neighborhood homes to parks, lakes and commercial
The resort-style community, The Commons of
areas. Children are served by the New
Lake Houston, offers waterfront and wooded
Caney Independent School District.
homesites and a variety of attractions for resi-
The Channelview Independent School District
dents including The Arboretum, a 65-acre
and Sheldon Independent School District
NEW CANEY AND SPLENDORA
waterfront park and preserve with 30 miles of
serve the needs of the area’s children.
developments are being built.
As you travel north on U.S. 59 North, you’ll find New Caney, an unincorporated area of over 18,000 people that pairs high quality of life with low cost of living. With its small-town community feel, the City of Woodbranch Village has treed lots, and modest homes available for less than $100,000, and new and larger homes priced in the mid $200,000s. The same is true for the nearby City of Roman Forest. The deed-restricted community of Northcrest Ranch features a lovely, wooded setting, many amenities and stunning acreage homesites priced up to and beyond the $400,000s. Other neighborhoods are Amberwood, Hill and Dale, and White Oak Plantation with homes varying in age and price.
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SPOTLIGHT:
INNER LOOP g n i v i L
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With 92 consulates, a dynamic multi-lingual population, two international airports and a top ranked port, Houston attracts newcomers from around the globe who bring with them a world view of business, opportunity and life style.
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SPOTLIGHT: INNER LOOP LIVING
“We Love Houston.” The 28-foot welcoming
firms, including 40 of the nation’s 145
Due to Houston’s sheer enormity – the
sign says it all. Open and friendly Houstonians
publicly traded oil and gas exploration and
8,929-square-mile metro area is larger than
embody a boisterous spirit of growth and
production companies.
the state of New Jersey – most of its growth takes place outside of the 610 Loop, the
optimism – a can-do attitude – and celebrate individuality and quirky creativity. Houston, the city with no limits, is America’s most diverse city. Whatever their backgrounds,
Houston’s Texas Medical Center is the largest
innermost of the three highway rings around
in the world, employing more than 106,000
Houston. But inside 610, the living is good
people and welcoming 10 million patient visits each year. The Port of Houston is the nation’s
and getting better.
one of the busiest ports in the world by cargo
WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT LIVING IN CENTRAL HOUSTON?
Houston’s status as the Energy Capital of
tonnage. NASA’s Johnson Space Center adds
Living in Central Houston means easy
the World remains unrivaled. The city is
to Houston’s economic diversity, and the city
access to Houston’s rich cultural
has consular offices from 92 countries.
The
newcomers from around the nation and the world come to Houston in huge numbers.
home to more than 3,700 energy related
top seaport by many measures, and ranks as
Theatre
District
in
scene.
Downtown
Houston has the largest concentration of seats outside of New York. This 17-block district is home to nine performing arts
Considerations When Searching for a Home in Central Houston: • While much of Houston is unzoned, check out potential restrictions such as deed restrictions and historic district status – the latter has been spreading through Central Houston. While restrictions can be very beneficial for neighborhood preservation, they might not be compatible with a buyer’s future vision for their new property. • It’s relatively quick and easy to check the reputation of volume builders in large suburban communities, but inner city builders and renovators may be very small or even brand-new. Real estate agents and previous buyers can be good sources to check with. • If schools are a consideration, keep in mind that the reputations of inner city schools can vary widely from campus to campus, even within a small geographic area. Urban districts such as HISD have many outstanding magnet and neighborhood schools, however, attendance boundaries are not often flexible. • When moving into a transitional neighborhood, keep in mind that problems such as crime, litter and rundown or abandoned properties may still take several more years to turn around. Redevelopment, while sometimes fast, can also progress very slowly.
organizations
that
wow
audiences
in
venues including Jones Hall, the Hobby Center, the Wortham Theater Center and the Alley Theater. Overall, Houston has more than 500 arts organizations – most of them in Central Houston. Just southwest of downtown, in the pedestrian-friendly Museum District, more than 8.7 million visitors explore the 19 museums that make up the tree-lined, culture-filled neighborhood each year. Within a 1.5-mile radius of the iconic Mecom Fountain, are such famous institutions as the Museum of Fine Arts-Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and more more specialized museums such as the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, the Holocaust Museum, and the Asia Society Texas Center. For sports fans, all of Houston’s professional teams are rooted in the central city. The Astros baseball team play downtown at Minute
• If it’s important to you, consider that large tracts of open or industrial land, especially if they border a major street, can be redeveloped as multifamily residential, commercial or other.
Maid Park, built around the historic Union
• If a home or neighborhood is located near a major freeway, keep in mind that urban freeways are always candidates for expansion. Do your research on projects that have been announced or talked about. The expansion of I-45 North and the proposed Houston-Dallas high-speed rail line may impact a number of Central Houston neighborhoods.
next to the incredibly popular Discovery
• A s with high-rise and mid-rise living anywhere, keep in mind that a great view is never guaranteed to last forever, unless your building looks onto a park or other green space.
Dynamo soccer team. Reliant Stadium,
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Station railroad depot. Also, downtown, the Rockets play basketball at Toyota Center, Green, which has quickly become Houston’s own people-filled version of Central Park. On the exciting east side of Downtown, BBVA Compass Stadium is home to the Houston home to the Houston Texans football team, is just inside the 610 Loop.
Downtown Houston is fast transforming
Village has everything from Pottery Barn to
Central Houston residents
itself
Williams-Sonoma.
a growing number of options for getting
into a 24/7 place where people
live, work and play. More than a dozen
are
enjoying
around without cars. A decade ago, Hous-
new residential towers are sprouting up all
At Westheimer and Kirby, West Ave is an
over downtown, and a host of new hotels
example of several large mixed-use develop-
opened in time to welcome fans to Houston
ments coming onboard in Central Houston.
for Superbowl LI. The largest of these, the
West Ave has shopping and dining on its
1,000-room Marriott Marquis, is one of
lower floors, including big draws like Toot-
many new towers ringing Discovery Green
sies for fashion, and restaurants including
and it features a Texas-shaped lazy river.
Pondi- cherry and Eddie V’s. On top of it all
catalyst for new development along the way,
are 400 apartments.
especially in Midtown, which has boomed
ton’s first light rail line opened along Main Street, taking riders through Down- town, Midtown, the Museum District, the Medical Center and to NRG Stadium. Known as the Red Line, this popular rail line also created a
with new midrise residential buildings,
For Downtown entertainment, Green Street Houston is home to the House of Blues,
Another new mixed-use complex, the River
the Lucky Strike bowling alley, a growing
Oaks District, has opened on the site of a
array of stores and restaurants, and new
former car lot on Westheimer, between The
Bike trails are an increasingly popular way to
luxury hotel Hotel Alessandra. Bayou Place,
Galleria and Highland Village. The vision is to
get around in Houston. The frequently used
Houston’s original downtown entertain-
offer an urban experience with high-end retail,
Heights trail opened a few years ago, and a
ment complex - offers movies at Sundance
street-side cafes, office space, a cinema and
new Downtown connection links it to East
Cinemas, concerts at Bayou Music Center,
279 residential units. Just inside the Beltway
End trails. The trail has also been expanded
and a variety of restaurants.
at I-10 West, City Centre is another growing
to the west, connecting it to Timbergrove
concentration of retail, office, residential and It‘s well known that Houstonians eat out
entertainment with a walkable urban feel.
more than residents of any other city,
townhomes eateries and arts centers.
and other hot neighborhoods along White Oak Bayou.
and with 11,000 eateries to choose from,
As Central Houston continues to improve,
who could blame them? Central Houston
so does its offering of schools.
is home to many of the nation’s most
has more than 40 colleges, universities and
acclaimed
including
other institutions of higher learning. Rice
Oxheart in the Warehouse District, Reef
University is consistently hailed as one of
Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theater and Japa-
in Midtown, and Hugo’s, Uchi and Under-
the nation’s finest, and the University of
nese Gardens, which recently
belly in Montrose. In a city where more
Houston has earned Tier One status, placing
its 100th birthday with new public art and
than 90 languages are spoken, great ethnic
it in
the same league as the University
the McGovern Centennial Gardens. A new
food is everywhere, from the many Viet-
of Texas and Texas A&M University for
master plan is also underway to renovate
namese restaurants along Milam Street in
advanced research.
and improve Memorial Park.
new
restaurants,
Houston
Houston has plenty of parks off the bayous. Hermann Park, between Downtown and the Medical Center is home to the Houston celebrated
Midtown, to the original Ninfa’s Mexican restaurant on the recently-beautified Navigation Boulevard. Central Houston is a shopper’s paradise that includes funky fashion boutiques in Montrose, antiques stores in the Heights, and a large cluster of art galleries and home decor stores along Kirby and Richmond. Westheimer is the undisputed champion of Houston’s shopping streets, crowned by The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping center with 400 fine stores and restaurants, and over 30 million shoppers every year. Located right outside the 610 Loop, The Galleria has everything from Neiman-Marcus,
Gucci
and Saks Fifth Avenue for uber-luxury, to Macy’s for moderately priced fashion. Just inside the Loop on Westheimer, Highland
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In this section
Cities and Area Neighborhoods Master-Planned Communities
Photo Courtesy of Woodridge Forest
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS With a variety of lifestyle choices, it’s not hard to see why Northeast Houston continues to grow year after year. Add 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.
KINGWOOD AREA
In Northeast Houston, where there are so
walking trails, multiple playgrounds and
many housing options, there’s a home that
wonderful amenities like a swimming pool
fits your taste, lifestyle and budget. You can
and tennis courts. Residents have quick access
KINGWOOD
live on treed acreage, on a golf course, near
to Bush Intercontinental Airport, Deerbrook
The first residents of this master-planned
the water, in a quiet enclave, in a thought-
Mall, the Jessie Jones Nature Park and Lake
community (the largest one in Harris
fully planned community, or on a shady
Houston. Younger residents can attend excel-
County) moved into their brand-new homes
street in an established neighborhood. Each
lent schools in the Aldine Independent School
in 1971. Since then, the area has become
community is different, yet all share an
District, which ranks among the region’s most
home to 83,000 people. Most of Kingwood’s
openness of spirit, a heritage of discovery
highly regarded school districts.
25 residential villages have a neighborhood
and a sense of community. Get to know your new neighbors here.
FALL CREEK
pool and community services.
Fall Creek offers “so much, so close.” Just
Kingwood, known as the “Livable Forest,”
15-miles from downtown Houston and eight
exists in harmony with pines, magnolias
miles from the airport, the neighborhood is
and many other species of shade trees.
infused with a welcoming spirit and enticing
Hike and bike trails weave throughout the
amenities. Within the natural splendor of
woods and lakes of the neighborhoods,
the Golf Club of Houston, the elegant and
providing ample opportunity for folks to
Five minutes from food, fun and enter-
stylish homes of Fall Creek are set in a natu-
exercise, relax and socialize.
tainment, lies the beautiful community of
rally wooded landscape and served by the
Deerbrook Estates, located just off U.S.
acclaimed Humble Independent District
The city of Houston is not far, just 23 miles
Highway 59 North. Here, affordable, high
schools, including an on-site elementary at
to the south, but Kingwood residents have
-quality new homes sit amongst miles of
the heart of the community.
everything they need to stay close to home,
GREATER WEST LAKE HOUSTON DEERBROOK ESTATES
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HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
including a thriving commercial center,
OAKHURST AT KINGWOOD
wildlife and nature reserve, will lie adjacent
many big-name retail stores, smaller shops,
An integral part of Kingwood’s master plan,
to the Town Center and provide endless
restaurants, and other amenities. In addi-
Oakhurst is one of the newest villages in the
opportunities for natural fun. In addition,
tion, there are over 100 different clubs and
Livable Forest. Set amongst the fairways of
the Valley Ranch Recreation Center features
organizations to involve residents.
the Oakhurst Golf Club, beautiful homes
a family-friendly water park with waterslide,
are connected by 75 miles of greenbelt trails,
splash pad, pool, playgrounds and sports
BARRINGTON KINGWOOD
where residents can walk, jog, bike, roller
courts. Children living in Valley Ranch
Here, residents live well. Homes in Barrington
blade, and travel around the community,
attend schools in the New Caney Indepen-
Kingwood are surrounded by the back nine
visiting the many amenities, like the water
dent School District.
of the Lakes Golf Course of the Kingwood
spray park. Children attend schools in the
Country Club, and many offer spectacular
New Caney Independent School District.
views. At the heart of the neighborhood is the Barrington Manor House, offering a fitness
WOODRIDGE FOREST
center, media center, computer center, billiards
Located just a mile from U.S. Highway
room, tennis courts, infinity edge pool, and
59 North, Woodridge Forest has care-
more. It’s the perfect spot to gather with neigh-
fully preserved the two natural creeks that
bors and host a party. Barrington residents are
meander through the community. Here,
right next door to baseball and soccer fields,
elegant homes allow comfortable, stylish
horse stables, the Kingwood FFA barn, the
living under a canopy of old-growth trees.
boat ramp into Lake Houston, Deer Ridge
Parks and schools are located right in
Park and all the restaurants and shopping they
the neighborhood and sports fields, Lake
could want. Nearby schools are in the Humble
Houston access, Dylan Duncan Skatepark,
Independent School District.
world-class golfing, wilderness areas and many other family-friendly amenities and
KINGS MILL
activities are nearby. Local schools are part
This delightfully designed community
of New Caney Independent School District.
offers charming amenities including a tranquil pool and aquatic center, playgrounds, a scenic lake and miles of wooded walkways. Residents can retreat from the hustle of the big city, breathe in the scents and sights of nature, and relax in their castle nestled in the forest of Kings Mill. Deer-
GRAND PARKWAY TAVOLA Tavola is located 7 miles north of Kingwood and has easy access to U.S. Highway 59 North and the Grand Parkway. Named after
brook Mall, Lake Houston and many
an Italian word for a favorite gathering space,
shops, restaurants and services are right
Tavola offers inspired living in a beautiful
nearby. The area is served by the Humble
wooded community, designed with endless
Independent School District.
activities for the whole family, with amenities including greenbelts, a recreation center
ROYAL BROOK
HUMBLE, ATASCOCITA AND HOUSTON AREAS BALMORAL Balmoral is a new 580-acre community being developed by Land Tejas in the West Lake Houston area of Northeast Houston, located off Beltway 8 in Humble, Texas. The location of Balmoral is convenient in that they offer direct access to not only the Northeast Beltway, but also the Sam Houston Parkway and Woodland Hills drive. What makes Balmoral specifically unique is their plans to provide top-notch amenities such as Houston’s very first clear water lagoon that will be surrounded by white sandy beaches. Balmoral is expected to have an eighty-acre Amenity Village to keep residents entertained and make living life in their community comfortable and allow for a fun lifestyle. Balmoral is also including GreenBoLT, and alternative transportation experience. GreenBoLt is a concept for their trails will enable residents to commute through the Amenity Village and community by way of golfcarts, bicycles, and segways, so that homeowners can be to their destinations in minutes. Residents living Balmoral will have access to some of the mostly highy regarded Humble Independent School District schools, as well as quality preschools and private schools.
and pool, serene lakes, and breathtaking
BRIDGES ON LAKE HOUSTON
Responding to the demand for more new
views. New Caney ISD has opened Tavola
This beautiful master-planned community
homes in Kingwood, the community’s
Elementary, located at the center of this
is conveniently located near Bush Inter-
developer,
neighborhood.
continental Airport, Beltway 8 and U.S.
Friendswood
Development
Company, is building a new village called
Highway 59 North. It features a variety of
Royal Brook, located at the northeast
VALLEY RANCH
new homes, as well as lakefront home sites.
corner of Mills Branch Road and West
In Valley Ranch, your family will find every-
The area is served by the Humble Indepen-
Lake Houston Parkway. The first phase is
thing it needs to flourish. When completed,
dent School District.
now open, offering new homes priced from
the 240-acre Valley Ranch Town Center will
the $300,000s to $700,000s. The award-win-
be an epicenter for fun and activity with
EAGLE SPRINGS
ning Humble Independent School District
shopping, dining and entertainment. The
This masterfully planned neighborhood is
will serve the village.
Grove, a scenic 135-acre park and dedicated
tucked in between U.S. Highway 59 North
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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and Lake Houston, just south of Atascocita Road. The tranquil leafy canopy belies the variety of activity to be found underneath. There are multiple pools, including a junior Olympic-sized pool, a splash pool and a spray park, two community centers and gathering facilities, as well as many parks, playgrounds and trails that link them. Children from the community are served by the highly esteemed Humble Independent School District and can attend one of two elementary schools within the neighborhood.
TOUR 18 This golf-course community offers homes
pool, pavilion and playground. Children
that come with it, right in their back yard.
in and around the painstakingly recre-
attend the highly regarded Humble Inde-
With peaceful nature trails that wind from
ated signature holes from the world’s
pendent School District.
one park to the next, piers, beaches and boat
most famous courses. Situated near U.S. Highway 59 North and Beltway 8, every-
SUMMERWOOD
thing is nearby, including Lake Houston,
When you’re in Summerwood, your car will get a rest. Most everything you want is contained in this 1,500-acre master-planned community. Miles of parkland, trails and playgrounds are interwoven with beautiful homes, multiple pools, recreation centers, and gathering places. There’s even a full-time activity director to ensure that you’ll meet your neighbors at fun events. The Shops at Summerwood offer groceries, restaurants and services. Located at Beltway 8 and W. Lake Houston Parkway, the neighborhood is in the Humble Independent School District.
Bush Intercontinental Airport, Houston and The Woodlands. The Humble Independent School District serves Tour 18.
THE GROVES One of the newest and most exciting communities is The Groves, an artfully planned neighborhood designed to bring residents closer to nature and each other. Amenities include a one-of-a-kind splash pad,
playgrounds,
meandering
wooded
trails, a Welcome Center that hosts events like fitness classes and movie nights, and year-round entertainment planned by a dedicated lifestyle director. Living in this peaceful oasis, nestled among the majestic
WATERS EDGE Just as the name implies, Waters Edge
ramps, large wooded home sites and schools provided by the Huffman Independent School District, this green development is a wonderful place to call home.
EAST/SOUTHEAST OF LAKE HOUSTON NEWPORT SEVEN OAKS Located near Crosby, Newport Seven Oaks is a tranquil neighborhood where residents can enjoy the swim and tennis center, playground, 18-hole golf course and community lake. There are also walking paths, green spaces, and water fountains. Students are served by the Crosby Independent School District.
is settled on the peaceful shores of Lake Houston. Heavily wooded, with beautiful
U.S. Highway 59 North, and the bustling big
lake and lagoon views, this master-planned
BAY RIVER COLONY, BAYTOWN
city are right nearby. Schools are part of the
community offers many amenities. Resi-
Bay River Colony is a charming new-home
Humble ISD. Visit www.thegrovestx.com
dents can enjoy playing or working out at
for more information.
the community recreation center with its
woods, one might forget that Beltway 8,
resort-style pool and splash pad, fishing in
STILLWATER ON LAKE HOUSTON
the stocked lake, and walking or biking on
Homes are now for sale in Stillwater on
downtown Houston, the community is served
Lake Houston, a 191-home gated commu-
by the Humble Independent School District.
the miles of trails. Just 15 miles northeast of
nity that backs right onto Lake Houston.
community in booming Baytown. Family-friendly amenities include a neighborhood park, a playground, a sparkling pond and a winding walking trail, including the Baytown Nature Center and Eagle Pointe Golf & Recreation complex. Residents have easy access to Houston, employers in the Port of Houston area, and many local
scenic interior lake provides the central
WATERWAY AT THE COMMONS OF LAKE HOUSTON
focal point of the community, with planned
Residents of the Commons have Lake
are provided by the Goose Creek Indepen-
amenities to include a recreation center, a
Houston, and all the opportunities for fun
dent School District.
Some home sites offer water frontage. A
attractions and shopping centers. Schools
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In this section home ownership choosing a realtor mortgage options credit reports houston cost of living
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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The
HOME FRONT Houston is a city of choice. You can live close to your work, surrounded by nature, in a vibrant community, near exciting amenities, or any combination of these. In Northeast Houston, almost every housing budget can be accommodated.
Single-family homebuyers can choose eco-friendly designs, new homes in masterplanned communities, luxury residences in gated enclaves or resale homes in established neighborhoods. You may want to consider leasing as well, and there are a range of condominiums, townhouses and lofts available. Begin your search for the right home at www.houstonnewcomerguides.com.
amenities, or a settled community with
Taxes vary by county, school district and
established traditions? What about a yard?
Municipal Utility District (MUD). The good
Walking or recreational opportunities? Prox-
news is that mortgage interest and property
imity to shops and work? And the big one:
taxes can be deducted from your federal
schools? Even if you don’t have children,
income tax.
buying in an area with excellent schools will pay off when it comes time to sell.
The best place to start is with a professional REALTOR®, who will be able to guide you
Of course, the cost of home ownership
and your family to the right area and choice.
doesn’t end with the sale price; maintenance
HOME OWNERSHIP There’s nothing like owning your own piece of property to help you feel connected to an area and your neighbors. Northeast Houston has plenty of choices: brand-new homes ranging from those for first-time to move-up buyers, townhouses and resale houses. All have their advantages. The first consideration is location, location, location. Where do you want to live? What neighborhoods appeal to you? Do you want a new housing development with the latest
and repairs will be required. One rule of
PRE-OWNED HOMES
thumb is to budget one percent of the sale
Very often, pre-owned homes are situated
price for maintenance; another is to set
in
aside one dollar per square-foot per year.
prospective buyers to talk to a couple of
There’s no hard-and-fast rule, but gener-
neighbors and get a feel for the block. Watch
ally, upkeep costs will go up as the age of
for great locations on golf courses, near
the home increases. Most new homes have
parks, lakes or shops. Is the nearby school
warranties that cover problems for the first
a good one? Is there a homeowner’s asso-
few years. And home warranty policies can
ciation, deed restrictions or zoning laws?
be purchased for re-sale homes. In addi-
Remember, you can change the house,
tion, make sure you understand any deed
but you can’t move it. You will also want
restrictions or homeowner’s association
to consider your commute. How far is it
regulations that might be in effect, along
to work? How does that cost in time and
with any corresponding dues or assessments.
money compare to the cost of the house?
established
neighborhoods,
allowing
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON HOME FRONT
You may be dreaming about a custom home. While building one takes time and planning, the effort and wait are often worth it. Some customs homes are one-ofa-kind, created using original plans from the ground up. In other cases, builders work with buyers to customize rooms, adjust square footage, add details or energy-saving features. Whatever your dream, it’s never too early talk to a builder. You will also want to view homes already built by the company and, if possible, speak to homeowners about their experience with the builder and the process. Be sure to interview two or more builders before signing a contract. Ask builders how long they’ve been in business, how many homes they’ve completed and if they have any references. Once you’ve chosen the builder, review the contract carefully. You should understand Pre-owned homes are as different in style and character as their previous owners were, and often this adds wonderful appeal and opportunity. Some homes are ready to move in; some need a little work; others need transformations. Before you purchase a pre-owned home, hire a licensed inspector to analyze the house, inside and out. Inspections will identify structural and hardto-spot problems that need to be addressed. If repairs are needed, be sure to get several estimates for the entire project. Even if the house is sound, you may want to do a little or a lot of remodeling. From painting walls to removing them, you may need to hire the services of a remodeling company to realize your dream. The Greater Houston Builders Association (www.ghba.org) is an excellent source of reputable home improvement companies. Use the chambers of commerce in this guide and the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) for possible sources of information on home repair companies and referrals.
many choices for home sites – in new and established subdivisions, on the waterfront, on a golf course, even with a pastoral or forested setting on acreage.
if the final price is guaranteed, what the move-in date is and how upgrades or change orders are handled. Attorneys who specialize in construction are available to review contracts and their fee may
A realtor can quickly narrow down your
save you money in the long run, helping you
site-selection process by matching the best
to avoid misunderstandings and frustration.
locations to your needs; she can also work with you to find a builder. Some specialize in green building and energy efficiency or may
MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES
have advanced training from the National
The popularity of master-planned commu-
Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Be sure to tour model homes to evaluate the designs, features, and workmanship of each builder. The architectural styles, floor plans, interior finishes, appliance choices and other options vary, and it’s important to begin honing your tastes and preferences. Designers can help with selecting packages and upgrades to complete a home beautifully as well as on time and on budget.
nities has been one of reasons Northeast Houston continues to grow. These communities are some of the finest in the country because they plan for the best use of the land, allowing exceptional living, lower environmental impact, quality construction, and a dynamic mix of residential and commercial uses. All of this adds up to thriving, vibrant
Production houses can usually be finished in 90 to 120 days, and most builders have homes in varying stages of comple-
neighborhoods. Large parcels of land in Kingwood, Humble, Atascocita, Crosby, and the Lake Houston area have been carefully set out for home sites and commercial
tion and can accommodate newcomers
use. Housing choices in master-planned
NEW HOMES
who need to move in quickly. Please visit
communities focus on single-family homes
If building from the ground up appeals to you, the many outstanding homebuilders in Northeast Houston can help. There are
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
for
in a variety of styles, sizes and price points.
a complete list of homebuilders in the
Schools, shopping, healthcare, transit and
Northeast Houston area.
other services are close to home.
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Master-planned community developers understand that their designs are for people and their communities are further enriched by youth sports leagues, welcoming recreation centers, and local events, all of which bring neighbors together.
business centers and more. Some facilities
or individual owners. Rental houses and
allow pets. Most require a security deposit
townhomes are listed on the Houston Asso-
and a credit card report; leases range from
ciation of Realtors (www.HAR.com) and
six months to one year. Month-to-month
are updated every 15 minutes.
APARTMENT HOMES
Complexes have different plans for utilities,
neighborhoods,
Many rental houses and apartment homes
cable and internet service, and additional
pools, civic associations and deed restric-
are available in Houston’s Northeast region
deposits and activations services may be neces-
tions. Most single-family houses do not
right now, and prices are determined by
sary. Apartment owners must install smoke
include utilities in the lease, so tenants must
location, square footage, and amenities.
detectors, locks on every door and latches on
arrange for electricity, water, gas, cable and
each window. Discuss any special housing
Internet connections separately. Deposits
Apartment locators or leasing agents at the
requirements you may have with the leasing
are usually one-month’s rent and there may
complexes are ready to answer questions,
agent and be sure that the terms are written
be extra fees for pets, utility installations or
assist with move-in details and help orient
into the lease. In Texas, all real estate agree-
service charges
new residents. Select properties provide
ments must be in writing. Go to the Houston
apartment information, floor plans, photos
Apartment Association (www.haaonline.org)
Texas protects renters. If residents fulfill the
and tours online. Many Northeast Houston
to download sample lease forms.
terms of their lease, the owner must refund
leases are available but usually command Realtors are the best source for leasing
higher prices.
single-family homes. Check out preferred
units have fireplaces, ceiling fans, built-in
considering
community
the security deposit in full, or provide a
LEASING A HOUSE
written explanation within 30 days. If not,
on-site recreational facilities and covered
Need more than an apartment? Houses,
the owner could be liable for three times the
parking. Some complexes feature state-
condos and townhomes can also be leased
amount illegally held. File complaints with
of-the-art gyms, movie theatres, sparkling
and are usually listed with area Real-
the Houston Apartment Association’s Resi-
microwaves,
washer/dryer
connections,
pools, multi-purpose party rooms, executive tors,1 property Woodridge Ad_Half Page Horizontal_CMYK.pdf 10/16/17
management 11:57 AM
companies,
dent Relations department.
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Choosing a Realtor
TEMPORARY LODGING
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.
First, understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® cannot discriminate against someone based on race, religion, gender, handicap, family status or national origin. Talk to a number of realtors before making your decision, talk to some of their previous clients and review their current and recent listings. You might want to ask the following:
• How long have you worked in real estate?
• Is real estate your full-time job?
• Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers?
• Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood?
• What is the average price of properties that you close?
• How many closings do you have each year?
• Do you work on a team?
• D o you have any designations, cer tifications, awards or special training?
SPECIALTY CERTIFICATIONS Realtors with the CBR (Certified Buyer Representative) are exclusively committed to providing excellent buyer representation and know current real-estate practices. Realtors can also be certified as Texas Affordable Housing Specialists, which recognizes training in green technologies that can make a home more affordable. Realtors certified by Earth Advantage are trained to spot and understand the advantages of green construction. An EcoBroker designation means a realtor has extensive training in conservation and green energy. Your realtor should be someone who is an expert on the area and the industry. But she should also be easy to work with and willing to listen – the process should be enjoyable as well as productive. NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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terms is also available. Motels, hotels and luxury suites are often near major business districts and key roads, and can be found throughout Northeast Houston. Short stays are a convenient necessity during a move, but if you stay longer than 30 consecutive days, you will qualify for an exemption from the state’s six percent hotel tax. Be sure to advise the hotel of your extended stay and go to www.cpa.state.tx.us for an
How do you choose the right realtor?
24
Interim housing with a range of rental
2020
exemption certificate. (Always consult a tax professional for specific tax information).
MANAGEABLE, AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLE Although home prices have risen in Houston, it still ranks as one of the most affordable big cities in the U.S. for homeownership. Despite a flattening economy, Houston home sales stayed increased in 2018 by 3.3 percent and even gained momentum toward the end of the year, ultimately setting a record of 87,129 sales closed over the year, according to the Texas Real Estate Year in Review Report by Texas Realtors. 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 with only 3 percent down payment and a minimum FICO credit score of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are also offered by various government agencies. Some groups, including teachers, police officers and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs. The following pages cover the basics of financing a home, along with some special considerations for unique circumstances in the Northeast Houston market.
HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD? Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to home
ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that 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 other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of high-rises, mid-rises and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be considered in the overall expenses. Developed by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, the Texas Housing Affordability Index (THAI) measures the ratio of median household income required to buy a median-priced home, using a 30-year mortgage with a 20 percent down payment as its model. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that the median household income is just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the median-priced home. Houston’s most recent THAI was an impressive 1.79, higher 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.
mortgages reset according to the terms of
The Alternative Mortgage Instrument (AMI) is a loan in which at least one of the four components vary. The most common AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins low and periodically adjusts either up or down within limits based on a pre-specified index. The initial low rate, and therefore, the lower monthly payment, enables the buyer to meet the income and debt-ratio requirement.
running credit reports, loan origination,
DOWN PAYMENT The down payment is the cash committed toward the purchase of a home. For most loans, a down payment of 20 percent of the purchase price is required to avoid paying Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), although it is possible to take out a secondary loan to avoid PMI.
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 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 the completion of a loan application and sometimes a fee. Pre-qualification, on the other hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a prospective buyer might qualify for.
TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deduct-
INTEREST RATES
ible if you itemize deductions. These
Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate
costs may include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. For more information, visit irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON HOME FRONT
BANKS Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competitive rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services, different
accounts,
minimum
balance
requirements, ATM charges, availability of funds policy, direct deposit and other options. Contact the Texas Department of Banking toll free 877-276-5554 or visit www.dob.texas.gov.
CREDIT UNIONS Credit unions are a good source to check for mortgage loans because they may offer lower or competitive rates. Historically, credit unions have been employer-based financial
institutions
but
today
it
is
CREDIT REPORTS
common for credit unions to be commu-
Lenders need your credit report, which is an analysis of
institution. Members are insured for up to
your credit history over the last seven-to-ten years. Called
$250,000 per account by the National Credit
nity-based, meaning that anyone can use a credit union as their primary financial
the FICO score, it includes your employment history, your
Union Administration.
payment activity, the amount you owe, the amount of
More information about credit unions
available credit you’re using, the length of the history, any
is available from the Cornerstone Credit
new credit and other factors. You will be scored anywhere
Union
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 may contact them to obtain your credit history.
League
(www.cornerstoneleague.
coop) and the Credit Union National Association (www.cuna.org).
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE Homeowner insurance is required by mortgage lenders, and is essential even if a
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.
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
home is paid for. Buyers are typically asked
TRANSUNION
®
1-877-322-8228 www.transunion.com
EQUIFAX® 1-800-685-1111 www.equifax.com
EXPERIAN® 1-888-397-3742 www. Experian.com
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2020
to pay one year of insurance at closing, with premiums included in monthly mortgage payments. Selecting an insurance company and determining coverage is the responsibility of the buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract to purchase a house is accepted by the seller. The Texas Board of Insurance (www.tdi.texas.gov) is a valuable source of information. In some fast-transitioning Central Houston neighborhoods, the value of the lot may represent a much larger-than-average share
of overall property value, and it may be a good idea to talk with several insurance companies – especially those who specialize in the area – to make sure you are getting ample coverage and the best rate. Many companies offer discounts when home insurance is combined with auto coverage, life insurance, health insurance and other types of insurance that they may need. In Houston, flood insurance is required or recommended by mortgage companies in some neighborhoods. Floodplain maps are determined by the Harris County Flood Control District, which has a mapping tool at www.harriscountyfemt.org.
The City of Houston and Harris County
Other programs include Southeast Texas
also offer homebuyer assistance programs
Housing Finance (sethfc.com) and the
that can provide down payment assis-
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS
Harris County Down Payment Assistance
tance and special financing for buyers
Program (harriscountytx.gov/csd).
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.
who meet certain household income and purchase price criteria. Visit The Houston
Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders
Homebuyer Assistance program website,
are also good sources of information about
www.houstontx.gov/housing, for details.
available homebuyer assistance programs.
COST OF LIVING When it comes to overall cost of living, Houston is still an affordable place to live and work. Here’s how the Houston area ranked in a comparison to other major U.S. cities (2019 1st Quarter) CITY
COMPOSITE 100%
GROCERY 13.40%
HOUSING 29.34%
UTILITIES 8.94%
Atlanta
102.3
101.8
104.2
85.7
100.6
107
105.1
Austin
99.5
89.7
103.1
95.6
91.2
106.2
102.6
Boston
153.5
110.5
227.2
119.6
121.4
117
129.6
Chicago
120
96.8
150.9
93.6
128
100.9
109.8
Cleveland
95.7
106.4
81.7
96.9
92.3
104.2
103
Dallas/Fort Worth
106.7
101.9
112.8
107.9
93.5
105.2
106.7
Denver
111.1
98.6
137
83.6
102
102.6
104.5
Houston
95.4
87.1
90.7
107.3
96.3
92.3
99.6
NYC (Manhattan)
238.4
139.7
487.6
123
142.2
111.9
136.9
Phoenix
97.4
97
96
109.2
113.2
92.9
92
Pittsburgh
102.2
111.3
103.9
110.4
111.4
98.8
93.2
Raleigh
94.5
90.8
85
96.3
97.7
101.3
101.7
San Francisco
200.1
135.6
359.4
122.2
150
130.5
132.4
Seattle
159.4
128.6
225.7
107.9
143.6
130
136.4
Tuscon
96.7
98.8
87
98.6
109.9
99.3
99.8
TRANSPORTATION
9.22%
HEALTHCARE 4.26%
MISC. 34.84%
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
27
In this section STAAR public schools private schools higher education
Photo Courtesy of St. Martha Catholic School Photo by B Marie Photography
28
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
EDUCATION IN NORTHEAST HOUSTON 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 Northeast Houston is the result of careful planning, commitment and high goals--quality is never an accident.
In Northeast Houston, there are a multi-
There are also many adult educational oppor-
Texas charter schools operate under and receive
tude of quality private and public schools
tunities to be found at Houston Community
academic accountability ratings from the Texas
which you’ll discover in this section. Be
College, Lone Star Community College
Education Agency and adhere to the same
sure to consider the specific educational
System and San Jacinto College as well as
STAAR test requirements as public school
needs of your child and meet with prospec-
other well-respected universities and colleges.
districts. Open-enrollment charter schools
tive teachers and administrators to ensure that your child is placed in the most appropriate school environment. Eleven independent school districts offer public education in the area, and each works to provide learning and extra-curricular options for all students while meeting the Texas Education Agency’s standards assessments
have the flexibility to adapt to the educational
STAAR The
State
of
Texas
Assessments
of
Academic Readiness (STAAR) measures a child’s performance, as well as academic growth, college and career readiness.
needs of individual students for a personalized learning environment where students can achieve more. Select charter schools even provide curriculum that specializes in a certain
Results from STAAR calculate annual
field such as the arts, mathematics or science.
school and district performance ratings.
Some charter schools offer students in grades
Annual Assessments cover: reading and
9-12 the opportunity to take both high school
mathematics, grades 3-8; writing at grades
and college courses at no cost.
and many have received numerous rewards
4 and 7; science at grades 5 and 8; social
for their efforts. Most districts offer dual credit
studies at grade 8; and end-of-course assess-
For
programs, so students can earn high school
ments for English 1, English 11, Algebra 1,
district and individual school information,
and college credits at the same time.
biology, and U.S. history.
visit tea.texas.gov
more
information
and
complete
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
29
NORTHEAST HOUSTON EDUCATION
STEM EDUCATION
than 70,000 students. This ethnically diverse
that time employed eight teachers. Today,
STEM, an acronym for science, tech-
district is the second best large school district
the district employs the finest employees
nology, engineering and math education,
in Texas for educating African American
that are committed to making certain that
is
applied
students and is ranked third among large
every child in Channelview receives the
approach that is coupled with hands-on,
school districts in Texas in educating Latino
best education possible.
problem-based learning.
students, according to recent studies by
an
interdisciplinary
and
Texas A&M University and the University The Texas science, technology, engineering initiative
and
mathematics
provides
a
of Texas – Pan American.
(T-STEM) foundational
approach to empower teachers, inspire students and advance STEM education. There are 70 T-STEM Academies and seven blended Early College High School/ T-STEM Academies serving more than 40,000 students across the state.
PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS Aldine Independent School District www.aldineisd.org The Aldine Independent School District
The district has 79 campuses: one Even Start center, seven Early Childhood/ Pre-Kindergarten centers, 35 elementary schools (grades K-4), 11 intermediate schools (grades 5-6), 10 middle schools (grades 7-8), five ninth-grade schools, five traditional high schools (grades 10-12), one Magnet high school, one night high school, one early college high school, one alternative education center and one dropout prevention center. Aldine ISD is driven by the goal of increasing student achievement and providing better educational opportunities for all students.
ranks among the state’s high-performing school districts according to data from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). It has earned seven recognized ratings since 1996. Aldine ISD covers 111 square miles in North Harris County and educates more
Channelview Independent School District www.cvisd.org
Crosby Independent School District www.crosbyisd.org Crosby ISD is nestled in the forested area east of Lake Houston, and is large enough to offer an excellent academic program yet small enough to identify and meet the needs of each of its over 6,200 students. In its 7 campuses -one kindergarten, four elementary, a middle and a high school -the district is working hard to provide education that “produces literate, responsible citizens capable of learning and applying academic and social skills successfully in any life setting.” More and more families are choosing to settle in the area because of its quality of life and convenience to major work centers, and so Crosby ISD continues to grow. With its dedicated and experienced teaching staff, the district is well suited to keep on
Channelview Independent School District (CISD) is a known for its reputation of outstanding student achievement. The district has an enrollment of 9,500 students and is located approximately 15 miles east of downtown Houston.
providing topflight education. Galena Park Independent School District www.galenaparkisd.com The mission of the educators of Galena Park Independent School District is to
The district has 12 campuses, including a Pre-K center, six elementary schools, one sixth grade center, two junior high campuses, one ninth grade center, one high school an alternative high school and an alternative discipline school. The district has earned the Met Standard rating under the Texas Education Agency’s accountability system for five consecutive years. Seven Channelview campuses also received special recognition for their exemplary performance in different academic areas.
Photo Courtesy of St. Martha Catholic School
30
CISD has a rich history of being “actively engaged in the future of the community”. The district was established in 1937 and at
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
|
2020
prepare students to become productive citizens and lifelong learners. Over 22,000 students are taught in 24 campuses situated along the Houston Ship Channel in east Harris County. The Galena Park ISD Education Foundation works to enrich, enhance and maximize the quality of education for all students. With its community, local business and in the district, it has raised over one million dollars since its inception. The foundation has funded innovative teaching grants and furnished student scholarships. With
its
growing,
diverse
population
Galena Park ISD is leading students to a brighter future.
Goose Creek CISD www.gccisd.net
through high-standard academic instruc-
NCISD graduates will be equipped to thrive
tion, a variety of learning opportunities and
in the REALITY of their future: all third
extra-curricular participation.
to twelfth grade students are equipped with
One of the largest and fastest-growing districts
Chrombooks, teachers have on average
in Texas, Goose Creek CISD serves 22,748
Humble Independent School District
10 years or more of teaching experience;
students in the communities of Baytown and
www.humbleisd.net
and more than 20 percent have a Master
Highlands. The district’s one primary school,
or Doctorate degree. All schools achieved
16 elementary schools, five junior schools and
Humble ISD students have a long history
three high schools, as well as IMPACT Early
of outperforming students in Texas and
College High School, John M. Stuart Career
the nation; once again, the district’s latest
Center, POINT Alternative Center and the
accountability rating was Met Standard, the
New Caney ISD seeks to provide an
Peter E. Hyland Center, provide resources to
highest possible rating.
exemplary educational experience in an
equip students to be 21st century learners.
An important component in Humble ISD’s
GCCISD’s Career and Technical Educa-
success is the support it receives from local
tion (CTE) program is rapidly expanding
businesses and families. The Humble ISD
to meet student and workforce needs and
Education Foundation has raised more
to help students obtain credentialing and
than $6.74 million to provide innovative
certifications. Technology is also a priority
the met standard seal of approval from the Texas Education Agency.
environment that fosters positive and collaborative relationships between students, staff, families and community members. Sheldon Independent School District www.sheldonisd.com
and enriching classroom projects. The most significant of these projects is the
Sheldon ISD serves a diverse student popu-
Humble ISD Insperity Observatory which
lation of around 8,000 students on 12
houses space telescopes under a retractable
campuses in northeast Harris County. By
roof for scientific education and research.
Texas school district standards, it’s small,
In addition, the district benefits from the
but it’s growing and the district is working
involvement of its parents. All campuses
hard to meet the needs of its developing
of classroom learning.
have active PTA/PTO or PTSA organiza-
community and continue to prepare its
tions and engaged booster clubs for sports
students to excel as productive individuals
Huffman Independent School District
and fine arts groups.
in the ever-changing global society. Sheldon
in Goose Creek CISD. High school students have access to iPads, and teachers use Promethean Boards and iPads to enhance instruction. Robert E. Lee High School was recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for making technology a major part
administrators and educators do this by
www.huffmanisd.net Located 21-miles northeast of Houston, it has
providing personalized learning experi-
The quiet bedroom community of Huffman
43 campuses more than 40,000 students and
ences in partnership with school, family and
is located on farm roads 2100 and 1960,
over 5,000 employees, who are all working to
community. Despite the challenges that an
thirty miles northeast of Houston in the
“develop each child intellectually, artistically,
expanding student body presents, Sheldon
piney woods of eastern Harris County.
emotionally, physically, and socially so that
ISD strives to maintain an equitable teach-
Huffman ISD’s enrollment is approximately
all students are life-long learners, complex
er-to-student ratio in core content areas
3,600 students, and they are spread across
thinkers, responsible global citizens and effec-
and is continuing to close the performance
4 campuses: Huffman Elementary School, Falcon Ridge Elementary School, Huffman Middle School, and Hargrave High School. Students achieve success both in the classroom and in today’s interconnected world because Huffman ISD’s campuses feature a robust technology environment that continues to be updated and expanded. Students benefit daily from schools blanketed in wireless coverage, high-speed Internet access, interactive whiteboards, mobile devices, and a district wide 2:1
tive communicators.”
gap between the demographic populations
New Caney Independent School District
Standard” rating from the Texas Education
www.newcaneyisd.org
Agency, the highest rating given.
The New Caney Independent School District
Thinking of every child, every day, Sheldon
is “a shining star in Texas education,” and
ISD provides personalized learning opportu-
has been the fastest growing Houston-area
nities to ensure all students graduate college
district for the last 3 years. Located approx-
and career ready.
imately 25 miles northeast of downtown Houston in Montgomery and Harris counties, the district’s students attend classes in
that it serves. The district received a “Met
Splendora Independent School District www.splendoraisd.org
nine elementary schools, four middle schools,
With over 4,100 students in 5 schools,
two high schools, one early college high
Splendora ISD is the smallest school
Huffman ISD prides itself on instilling
school, and one alternative education center
district in the county, but can provide
strong character values in their students
with students in grades first through twelfth.
an
student to computer ratio.
education
as
individual
as
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
each
31
NORTHEAST HOUSTON EDUCATION
child through its numerous educational opportunities in its Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways and early college high school. The district’s
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
difference. Visit www.covenantknights.org/
The Covenant Preparatory School 281-359-1090 • www.covenantknights.org
admissions or call 281-359-1090 Crossroads Early Learning Center 713-455-1661 ext. 1
personal graduation plan (PGP) initiative
The Covenant Preparatory School is the
allows 5th – 12th grade students, their
premier Christian college preparatory school
“Connecting Young Minds to Bright
parents, and a counselor the opportunity
in the northeast Houston area. Covenant
Futures”
to discuss and investigate future career
is a school committed to engaging minds,
Center is a state licensed learning center,
and educational opportunities. The initia-
cultivating virtue and purposefully and
serving children ages 6 weeks through 12
tive also allows district administrators
consistently implementing rigorous stan-
years of age. They provide transportation
to anticipate students’ interest levels for
dards through a liberal arts curriculum in a
to Humble ISD and Sheldon ISD Elemen-
courses being offered and plan according
distinct classical, Christian and college-pre-
tary Schools. Crossroads ELC teaches the
to those interests. Additionally, Splendora
paratory
the
ABEKA (a recognized Christian based)
High School offers 11 career pathways
2015-2016 academic year, Covenant opened
Curriculum, Spanish, Music, and Art.
providing students numerous skills and
the Upper School Campus for students in
The children attend chapel weekly and
grades seven through twelve. The Upper
bible study daily. Crossroads ELC’s main
School Campus is located at 3939 Glade
focus is to encourage children to learn,
Valley Drive in Kingwood. The Lower
grow, and enjoy being a kid. CELC also
School Campus for students in grades PK4
partners with the Case for Kids Program
through sixth grade is currently located at
that focuses on integrating literacy and
1711 Hamblen Road in Kingwood.
numeracy into project based activities:
certifications. Maintaining small-school charm, the district provides large-school technology and success. Splendora ISD is looking to become a district of innovation, creating an educational setting where every student is empowered to be self-mo-
culture.
Beginning
with
tivated, confident, an adaptable learner, a
The mission at The Covenant Preparatory
critical thinker and a productive citizen.
School is to assist parents in developing
Crossroads
Early
Learning
interactive learning, field experiences, and enrichment programs.
individuals of strong intellect, spirit, body,
Including Kids, Inc.
and heart by providing a college prepara-
281-852-0501 • www.includingkids.org
tory education to pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade students grounded in Chris-
The Center for Community Inclusion
tian values and Biblical principles. Dually
(CCI) is a unique program started by the
accredited by the Association of Chris-
Including Kids Autism Center to serve
tian Schools International (ACSI) and
young adults aged 16 to 30 in a centralized
AdvancED (formerly SACS), Covenant is
community setting. CCI focuses on helping
a distinguished school in a number of ways.
young adults with autism acquire or
The school seeks to cultivate young minds
generalize the necessary life skills to be as
through a rigorous academic curriculum
independent in life as possible, while being
rooted firmly in a biblical worldview and
an active member of their community. CCI
upholds a student culture that promotes a
addresses communication and social skills
love for learning. Graduates are prepared
through applied academics, prevocational/
to think critically at the highest academic
vocational skills, domestic skills, leisure
levels with the ability to effectively engage
skills, safety skills and community skills.
the great issues of the day in a manner that
Additionally, Including Kids offers weekly
is informed, articulate and biblical. Chal-
seminars and monthly socials for young
lenging academics and sound theology
adults on the autism spectrum.
impart an understanding and love for all
32
truth by demonstrating the interrelatedness
Including Kids, Inc. in Humble, Texas, is
of every academic discipline as a reflection
a 501(c)3 nonprofit, therapeutic clinic that
of Gods’ objective, unchanging nature.
serves the special needs community of King-
Discover Covenant through Admissions,
wood, Humble, Houston and its surrounding
Curriculum, Fine Arts, Athletics and Clubs
areas. Including Kids provides children,
and Enrichment. Schedule a personal tour
young adults and families with autism and
and discover for yourself the Covenant
other related delays the wraparound support
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
|
2020
they need for not only the child, but for the
of their program is love. It’s intertwined
their children are getting the very best in
whole family. Whether it is through full
through every aspect of the center and
childcare including an exemplary curriculum,
time programming at a one to one student
comes to life in an overriding commitment
secure facilities, age appropriate activities,
to teacher ratio, or through after school
to care for each child, the whole child. Love,
safe and clean play spaces and most of all
programming, new technology initiatives,
along with a deep understanding of the indi-
compassionate teachers giving your children
family training, young adult programs and
vidual educational and emotional needs of
the personal attention they deserve.
community outreach endeavors, Including
each child, is what sets Kids ‘R’ Kids apart.
Kids and CCI are making strides for the 1
It’s clear that this is a place where students
The teaching staff are required to attend
in 59 children diagnosed with autism in the
are part of an extended family, learning and
continual training and education opportuni-
United States. Including Kids is a Texas
having a great time in the process. Here, the
ties to keep current and fresh on best practices
Education Agency approved, non-public
philosophy of “Hug First, Then Teach” is
and new insights to learning and care giving.
facility and has received the Award of
lived out by the staff of the school.
The lead teachers for the classrooms either
Distinction from the Behavioral Health
have their CDA (Child Development AssoToday childcare centers and preschools are
ciates) or are in the process of completing it.
an essential part of your child’s education.
The school has a full time cook on staff whose
Kids ‘R’ Kids
It’s where kids begin to develop social skills
sole focus is to prepare nutritious meals that
281-446-0063 • www.krkfallcreek.com
and introduces them to classroom learning.
will give the students the energy to learn and
281-454-4244 • www.krkoflakeshore.com
Where you enroll your children is a big deci-
develop in a healthy way. Transportation
sion that will impact your child for years to
safety is important and as such, no vans are
Treating Your Kids Like Family - While
come. With Kids ‘R’ Kids, families with
used to transport children, but instead buses
nobody cares for your kids more than family,
children from 6 weeks to 12 years old in the
equipped with seat belts. Drivers are care-
Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy comes
Humble, Fall Creek, Summerwood, Park
fully screened and have a CDL (Commercial
close. Maybe that’s because at the very heart
Lakes and Lakeshore areas can be confident
Drivers License).
Center of Excellence.
• PK4 through 12th grade • Dually accredited by ACSI & AdvancED • Classical education • Biblical study throughout the curriculum • Highly-qualified faculty • AP classes at the high school level • Championship athletics—16 TAPPS state championships • Broad offering of enrichment and co-curricular activities at all grade levels • Bus service to Atascocita, Benders Landing , Fall Creek area and Summerwood
UPPER SCHOOL CAMPUS Grades 7 - 12th 3939 Glade Valley Drive Kingwood, TX 77339
LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS Grades PK4 - 6th 1711 Hamblen Road Kingwood, TX 77339
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
33
NORTHEAST HOUSTON EDUCATION
The framework in the classroom that sets
success.
call
Research shows the most significant brain
the atmosphere of learning is upholding
today or visit www.krkfallcreek.com or
development milestones occur from birth
three principles. One, they protect the
www.krkoflakeshore.com.
to age 5. Babies are born with more than
safety of children at all times. Learning cannot take place until safety is established. Two, they educate every child to the best of their ability to help them reach their potential. Using an age targeted curriculum helps in this effort. Three, they protect the dignity of every child so they feel loved and cared for. It says something
For
more
information
100 billion nerve cells in their brains. These
Primrose Schools www.primroseschools.com
neurons must connect and communicate with each other in order to form the circuits
The Leader in Early Education and Care
needed to think, learn and succeed – some-
They are a private preschool providing
thing neurons do at the remarkable rate of
premier early education and care for families
700 connections per second in the first five
by building a strong foundation for future
years of life.
learning and in life. Learn more.
significant about an organization with the way they go about teaching.
According to The Center on the DevelHigh-quality
early
childhood
education
provides children with the foundation they What makes Kids ‘R’ Kids stand apart
need to lead healthy, safe and productive lives.
is that it is family owned and operated
At Primrose Schools®, The Leader in Educa-
offering not only all-inclusive tuition, but
tional Child Care®, their exclusive Balanced
oping
Child
at
Harvard
University,
“The strength and efficiency of these connections is greatly affected by social interactions
that
involve
an
active
back-and-forth – or ‘serve and return’ –
also an accredited and age appropriate
Learning® curriculum blends purposeful play
curriculum that focuses on maximizing
with nurturing guidance from Teachers with
exchange of information.” Parents and
brain function and development providing
a special emphasis on character develop-
educators play a critical role in creating
a strong foundation in science, tech-
ment to build the right foundation for Active
these new and repeated experiences that
nology, art, and math; the blocks upon
Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts in
lay the foundation for a wide range of
which your child will build their academic
the first five years of a child’s life.
developmental outcomes later in life.
®
St. Martha Catholic School carries dual accreditation, by the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department (TCCB ED) and AdvancED. We hold membership in the National Catholic Education Association. Our academic standards are rigorous and aligned with TCCB ED expectations.
34
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
|
2020
“Serve and return” can be implemented with children of all ages to promote a
St. Martha Catholic School 281-358-5523 • www.stmarthacs.org
variety of positive learning outcomes, such
The students of the prestigious St. Martha’s Catholic School will receive a top tiered education for the most formative years
as literacy and language skills, social and
St. Martha Catholic School provides an excel-
beginning in Pre-Kindergarten and through
emotional confidence, and executive func-
lent Catholic education by developing mind,
the 8th Grade.
tioning skills, such as team-building and
heart, and spirit as they share in community
leadership skills.
to form witnesses who transform the world.
At Primrose Schools, the team of leading
The staff of St. Martha’s Catholic School
(4th-5th grade) follow a curriculum consisting
early childhood educators has created an
located at 2411 Oak Shores Drive in King-
of
integrated curriculum that carefully balances
wood, Texas proudly serves students all over
Science, and Social Studies, as well as
social, emotional, physical and academic
the Northeast side of Houston. They also
numerous ancillary classes such as Art, P.E.,
learning based on age and development
acknowledge that parents are the primary
Music, Spanish and Technology. The educa-
levels. For example, during story time,
educators of their children. So through collab-
tion of these students conforms carefully to
teachers engage students in different back-
orative efforts between the home, school, and
their stages of natural development, to lead
and-forth interactions by age, including:
parish communities, a positive atmosphere
them gently to encounter Jesus Christ through
• Ages 6 weeks to 1-year-old: cooing and making facial expressions
is created for each student to grow with the
Scripture, the Liturgy and the Sacraments.
• Ages 1-3: asking questions and using different character voices
itual, moral, intellectual, social, cultural, and
Finally, the transition to middle school at St.
physical development of their students.
Martha’s is an exciting time as the students
Students in the lower elementary school (K – 3rd grade) and upper elementary school Religion, Language Arts, Mathematics,
Gospel messages. The core purpose is the spir-
will become much more submerged into the
• Ages 4-5: discussing feelings By frequently and deliberately pairing words with objects and actions to create meaning, Primrose students begin to learn language to its fullest extent. Addition-
They believe that as an integral ministry of
highest academic levels of their core subjects as
the faith community of St. Martha Catholic
well as religion. St. Martha’s encourages these
Parish, learners follow religious truths and
students to take part in athletic teams, Band as
live Catholic values and ethics. St. Martha
well as numerous clubs and organizations.
Catholic School promotes a setting “Where Faith and Knowledge Meet” as students
The time students spend at St. Martha’s
and discussing problems and feelings
develop a personal relationship with Christ
Catholic School far exceeds the expectations
during playtime, children begin to develop
and come to know Him as their Model.
of their parents by truly developing them in
ally, by implementing “serve and return”
important life skills, such as playing well
mind, heart and spirit. These children are St. Martha’s administration and staff believe
extremely prepared academically as well as
that a solid foundation of educational skills
spiritually for High School and beyond. They
following
curriculum
invite you to visit the website to learn more or
The rapid development that takes place
provides educational and spiritual expe-
call 281-358-5523 to schedule a tour. Finan-
during the first five years of a child’s life is
riences for students to grow and become
cial assistance is available to those in need.
critical to success in life, and early educators
successful, active, lifelong learners. The
play a pivotal role in fostering this growth.
exceptional learning environment empha-
with others, thinking outside the box and learning to cope with failures.
the
Archdiocesan
sizes the importance of self-confidence, Primrose Schools is the nation’s leader in
respect, self-discipline, and responsibility as
providing a premier educational child care
each person cultivates God’s gifts of mind,
experience in more than 300 schools in 27
heart, and spirit.
states – seven Primrose Schools serve the
HIGHER EDUCATION Lone Star College www.LoneStar.edu Houston and the gulf coast region can be
Northeast Houston area: Primrose School
The core values of St. Martha’s Catholic
of Atascocita, Primrose School of Eagle
School is centered in that an educational
star restaurants and star studded entertain-
Springs, Primrose School at Fall Creek,
program within an ordered, safe, caring, and
ment are just some of the amenities that
Primrose School of Kingwood, Primrose
disciplined environment, based on Catholic
attract people from all over the world.
School at Lakeshore, Primrose School
teachings and values enables each child to
of Kingwood at Oakhurst and Prim-
grow in better understanding of self in rela-
Another benefit the area enjoys is Lone Star
rose School at Summerwood.
To learn
tionship to God and others. Students are then
College. Many people are surprised to learn
more about the many lifelong benefits of
encouraged to go beyond self and become
that LSC has more than 99,000 credit and
enrolling your child at Primrose Schools,
aware of the needs of others as Jesus did and
non-credit students walk through its doors
please visit www.PrimroseSchools.com.
learn to serve in the larger community.
each semester. LSC is today’s smart choice
full of surprises: world class museums, five
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON EDUCATION
LSC students can also take advantage of the Honors College at LSC for high achieving students and study abroad and international programs, programs not commonly associated with a community college. In addition, they have access to many extracurricular activities and exciting ways to get involved with their campus, other students and even the community. LSC has a comprehensive schedule of both intramural and club sports, as well as many clubs and student organizations. High school students can get a jump-start on college with Dual Credit classes which allow them to earn high school and college credit simultaneously. Students save money on college tuition, complete their degrees quicker and build confidence by easing the
Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training and certifications for top technology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being an authorized partner ensures that the students have the highest quality training materials and train on the latest products and technologies available. Courses provided fall into categories like desktop applications, technical training and professional development. Flexible Training Approach Based on Learner Needs - They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability
transition to college.
to customize dedicated classes to satisfy
LSC is a Top 10 degree producer for minori-
Online
ties, ranking fifth nationally for awarding
private classes and Online LIVE. Online
for students looking to earn an undergraduate
Liberal Arts & Sciences, General Studies and
Live
degree, start a new career or update their skills.
Humanities degrees. LSC is a proud member
from learning by bringing students and
of the community and a major contributor
instructors together synchronously in a
to the local and regional economy with an
virtual real-time classroom environment.
annual economic impact of nearly $3 billion.
This program provides students all of the
Students choose LSC because of the extra attention they get thanks to the small class sizes, averaging only 23 students per class,
specific needs. Learning methods include ANYTIME,
removes
on-site
geographical
training, boundaries
benefits of being in a dynamic interactive
the convenient campus locations that are
Affordable, close to home, world class.
classroom – enabling students to study from
close to home and the flexible schedules
When you add up all the benefits, you can
work, home or a New Horizons center.
LSC offers. No matter what their goals,
see why more than 99,000 students choose
Lone Star College is ready to help them
Lone Star College. Visit LoneStar.edu to
New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based
learn more about the significant role LSC
lab solutions as well, allowing students to
plays in the community.
access their labs anytime and anywhere.
realize their dreams. LSC is recognized as a world leader in workforce training and helps build a strong regional workforce in industries like health care,
construction,
accounting,
energy,
computer technology and transportation. LSC also helps qualified students find financial aid and grant funding options that can provide training at little or no cost. Many students interested in a four-year degree start at LSC, then transfer to the university of their choice, saving thousands of dollars without sacrificing quality. In fact, nearly 17,000 students transferred in 2016-17 to four-year colleges such as the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M, Rice, Stanford, Princeton and Baylor.
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New Horizons - Your Partner in Training 713-552-1414 • www.nhhouston.com For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been a leader in IT training. With over 100 locations worldwide, they have grown to become the largest independent training company in the industry. Their career and corporate training solutions help turn ambitious personal and business goals into results. They use varying training methods for virtually every schedule and learning style, along with vendor-approved learning tools and expert instruction. They have trained more than 30 million people to make the most of technology, and they feel like they are just getting started.
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The
state-of-the-art,
fully-configured
live lab environment provides students hands-on access to the systems and applications taught in the classrooms, empowering them to learn on their own schedules. A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for training quality and customer satisfaction as reported by an independent third-party learning and quality assurance
company,
Knowledge
Advisors.
Plus, research shows that New Horizons training yields a 4:1 benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager surveys regarding the improved performance and productivity of their employees immediately following New Horizons training.
We know you have places to be.
YOUR COMPUTER. YOUR CAMPUS.
Visit LoneStar.edu/Online
In this section
moving companies services & utilities public transportation international relocation places of worship
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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RELOCATION INFORMATION
Obtaining as much information as possible in advance about the Houston area 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
Moving is never without its headaches and hassles, but the more you know about the process, and your new environment, the easier the move will be and the faster you can enjoy your new home. Be better prepared to minimize and resolve difficulties quickly by reviewing this section. Here, you’ll find an overview of Northeast Houston’s local services and contacts, as well as state, county and local ordinances and information. There are nuts-and-bolts details on utilities, mail delivery, transportation and other basics. Online, you’ll find moving-related services like temporary housing, real estate professionals, mortgage officers, apartment locators and insurance agents. Find the people who are ready to welcome and assist newcomers at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
USING A MOVING COMPANY OR DOING IT YOURSELF? If you’re not moving far, or don’t have much stuff, you may want to move yourself, but there are costs associated with that, like time and effort. So, most people choose to hire a reputable moving company which is in the business of transferring belongings efficiently and carefully. Moving companies will give free estimates, which are usually based on the distance to be traveled and the weight of the household contents. Some companies include the cost of boxes, wrappings and supplies in their bids; others break out these costs separately. Packing services, fuel, wait time, and storage costs may vary dramatically, so be sure ask about all charges. In a binding estimate, the items to be moved and the services to
be performed are all listed on the estimate, and unless the customer makes changes, the price quoted will be the amount due. A non-binding estimate is not guaranteed. The cost of the move is determined after the truck is loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20%. In this case, be sure to attend both the before and after furniture weigh-ins. In the not-to-exceed estimate, the mover provides a binding estimate, then weighs the loaded truck and reduces the estimate if the vehicle is lighter than anticipated. It’s best to hire a company that guarantees the pickup and delivery date; make sure these are included in the contract. On the day of delivery, you must be at your new home to receive the goods and direct movers to the placement of larger furniture
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RELOCATION INFORMATION
ENERGY STAR Meeting the strict requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ENERGY STAR certified new homes are designed for energy efficiency, delivering energy savings of up to 30 percent compared to most other new homes. There are many Houston-area builders building ENERGY STAR homes. Learn more about buying an ENERGY STAR home at www.energystar.gov. CenterPoint Energy’s ENERGY STAR for New Homes Program provides incentives and training to homebuilders to encourage the construction of ENERGY STAR certified homes. This award-winning program has helped reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. Go to www.centerpointenergy.com to learn more.
items. If you are not at home, your goods will go into storage and you may end up paying additional charges before the movers will unload it. Although moving companies provide liability insurance on household belongings by the pound, it is wise to buy extra insurance that gives additional coverage, especially for those very special or very valuable items. A broken television is more costly to replace than a vacuum cleaner even though they weigh the same. Before the movers come, get prepared. Take inventory of your belongings and note their condition. If the moving company completes its own inventory, check it against your own before you sign it. If any of your items arrive at your new home with damage, photographic evidence will facilitate a claim, so consider taking pictures or video of valuable items before the movers arrive. Tax deductions may apply to your move, so keep the appropriate records and consult a tax professional. To find out more about your rights and responsibilities before you move, go to www.fmcsa.dot.gov.
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SERVICES AND UTILITIES Forwarding Mail To schedule a change of address, simply go to www.USPS.com or pick up a change of address form from your local United States Post Office. Electricity and Gas CenterPoint Energy is the regulated utility in the Houston area and owns and maintains the electricity delivery system. It is also the primary provider of natural gas in the Northeast Houston area. For information, visit www.centerpointenergy.com. However, Houstonians have the power to buy their electricity from several companies. Retail Electric Providers (REPs) compete to sell electricity to homes and businesses and may offer lower prices, renewable energy options, added customer services and other offers. Before settling on a supplier, follow the three C’s: Contact, Compare, and Choose. Be sure to allow several days for the ordering process so electricity can be connected before the move-in date. If you are establishing service for a new home or building, a permit or inspection may be required. Visit www.powertochoose.org to compare prices.
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Water and Sewer Water, sewer and drainage services are typically provided by the public works department of each city or municipal utility district (MUD), which are divisions of the State of Texas. There are a number of districts in Northeast Houston and services vary. Contact your city of residence or homeowners’ association for detailed information. In the City of Houston, call 713-371-1400. Trash Pickup and Recycling Most Northeast Houston municipalities provide trash pickup. Call the Solid Waste Management Department or your homeowner’s association to find out which day trash is collected in your area and what fees to expect. Curbside recycling is offered in most neighborhoods and drop-off recycling centers are located throughout the area. For information about Houston’s Curbside Automated Recycling Program and a Recycling Calendar, visit www.houstontx.gov. Telephone, Cable and Internet Service Northeast Houston and East Montgomery County have five area codes – 713, 832, 346, 936, and 281. All ten digits are required when making phone calls. Help stop telemarketing calls by calling 1-888-382-1222 or by visiting www.donotcall.gov.
There are several providers offering satellite and cable television services, as well as high-speed Internet. Ask about bundled services, special promotional rates and discounts for newcomers.
Houston area. The Montgomery County Fire Marshall can direct you to your local fire department - call 936-538-8288 – or check with your city hall or homeowner’s association.
An EZ TAG or other interoperable Texas toll payment tag is required. The four Katy Managed lanes run from SH 6 to IH 610 down the middle of I10 and are free to carpoolers and vehicles with two or more people during
PUBLIC SAFETY Police For emergencies only, call 911. The Houston Police Department, other municipal police departments and the Harris County Sherriff ’s Department serve the greater Houston area. Crime Watch programs operate in neighborhoods across Northeast Houston; contact your homeowner’s association or civic club to find out more. Crime Stoppers offers rewards for information that leads to an arrest and can be reached at 713-222-TIPS. Fire For emergencies only: call 911. The Houston Fire Department operates several stations within the Northeast
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Harris County Toll Road Authority HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes are available on some freeways during peak periods to vehicles with two or more riders. Visit www.ridemetro.org or call 713-635-4000. The Harris Country Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) operates approximately 132 miles of roadway in the greater Houston area. The Westpark Tollway, the Katy Freeway Managed Lanes, the Hardy Toll Road and the Sam Houston Tollway all have electronic tolling – there are no tollbooths, and no cash is accepted. Major sections of the Grand Parkway are also tolled.
peak
times;
single
drivers
can
use
these lanes by paying a toll. For maps, rates and more, go to www.HCTRA. org. For real-time traffic reports visit www. houstontranstar.org.
AUTOMOBILES Buckle up in Texas. Children up to nine, or shorter than 4-feet-9-inches, must be secured in an approved car seat. Texas law also requires people who drive in Texas to pay for any accidents they may cause. So, you must have and carry automobile liability insurance. The minimum liability limits are $30,000 for each injured person, up to a total of $60,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage per accident (30/60/25).
Public Transportation PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION METRO is the primary public transportation service in the Greater Houston area. METRO has launched several initiatives in the Houston and surrounding area to make commuting around the city quick and easy for their customers. For more information, visit RideMetro.org.
• Local Bus METRO Local bus service runs mostly along city streets, making stops at every other corner along the designated route.
• METRORail The light-rail network features 23 miles of service stretching from the Texas Medical Center, Downtown, the Museum District. This efficient system even goes as far as Northline with numerous stops inbetween.
• Park & Riders METRO This service offers 27 Park & Ride facilities that are spread throughout Houston, offering direct, nonstop service to downtown, the Texas Medical Center and other major employment centers across the region.
• METROlift METROlift is the transit companies curb-to-curb shared-ride paratransit service. This services provides transportation for persons with disabilities who cannot be facilitated on the traditional METRO buses or light rail systems.
•M ETRO STAR METRO STAR STAR vanpool provides transportation directly to and from work and offers more than 700 routes in an eight-county area. Register online to find a match for your commute, or call 713-224-RIDE to help start a vanpool for your route.
+ HOV / Hot Lanes + Bike & Ride + Transit Centers
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RELOCATION INFORMATION
here, passengers can travel to many destinations, including international. For more information about Houston’s airports and flight information, go to www. fly2houston.com.
TEXAS GOVERNMENT Voter Registration You must be 18 years old, a resident of the county in which you’re registering and a U.S. citizen to vote. Simply fill out a voter registration application, which is available at a Voter Registrar’s Office, the Secretary of State’s Office, many post offices, libraries and high schools. You must submit your application no later than 30 days prior to an election in order to vote in that election. Call 1-800-252VOTE or visit www.votetexas.gov.
You have 30 days to register your vehicle after establishing residency, which you can do at your local County Tax Office. Visit www.txdmv.gov. New Texas residents who hold a driver’s license from another state, U.S. territory, Canadian province can legally drive for 90 days after establishing residency, but must get a Texas Driver’s License before that period ends. Visit www.dpstx.gov to learn more. The Motorist Assistance Program (MAP) helps stranded motorists on Houston area roads. Offered by The Harris County Sherriff ’s Department and METRO, specially marked MAP vehicles are available and equipped to handle minor emergencies. Call 713-225-5627. Vehicle Registration: Two Steps, One Sticker Vehicle registration must be renewed annually, and the vehicle must pass inspection in order to qualify for renewal. The blue-bordered registration sticker serves as a combined proof of registration and inspection with one expiration date.
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Vehicles may be registered for license plates at district field offices in the county of residence. The cost is based on the model and year for cars and gross weight for trucks. Go to: www.registeredtexan.com to learn more. Harris County Tax Assessor 1001 Preston St., Houston 77002 www.hctax.net Montgomery County Tax Assessor 400 N. San Jacinto St., Conroe 77301 www.mctx.org
AIRPORTS Bush Intercontinental Airport With over 800 departures each day to hundreds of domestic and international locations, Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is one of the busiest airports in the country and serves over 40 million passengers each year. www.airport-houston.com William P. Hobby Airport Serving Houston travelers for more than 80 years, Hobby Airport (HOU) served more than 12 million passengers last year. From
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Legal Records Legal records maintained by Harris County include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings, taxes and more. Call the Harris County Court House at 713-755-6411 or go to www.harriscountytx.gov. Liquor Laws The minimum age to buy or order liquor is 21. Liquor stores are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with no sales on Christmas, New Year’s Day or Thanksgiving. Drivers are prohibited from consuming alcoholic beverages while operating a vehicle. DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws are strictly enforced and carry a sentence of jail time and a fine, even for first-time offenders.
PET LICENSING AND LEASH LAWS Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Any veterinarian can administer vaccinations and provide license tags, as well as information on keeping your pet healthy in Texas. In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing license tags and/or a leash can be impounded.
CONNECT CITY OF HOUSTON HELP Line............................................... 311 City Hall ....................................713-247-1000 900 Bagby, Houston 77002 Office of Mayor Annise Parker ...713-837-0311 Office of the City Controller Ronald Green.............................832-393-3460 Central Library...........................832-393-1313 METRO.....................................713-635-4000 Parks and Recreation..................713-845-1000 Property Information..................713-837-7719 Property Tax...............................713-368-2000 Water/Sewer/Garbage ...............713-837-9100 Vital Statistics.............................713-247-1686
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS District A –Brenda Stardig..........832-393-3010 District B - Jerry Davis ...............832-393-3009 District C - Ellen Cohen............. 832-393-3004 District D - Dwight Boykins .......832-393-3001 District E – Dave Martin.............832-393-3008 District F - Steve Le................... 832-393-3002 District G - Greg Travis ..............832-393-3007 District H - Karla Cisneros..........832-393-3003 District I - Robert Gallegos .........832-393-3011 District J - Mike Laster................832-393-3015 District K - Larry Green..............832-393-3016
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS AT-LARGE Position 1 - Mike Knox ..............832-393-3014 Position 2 - David W. Robinson ..832-393-3013 Position 3 - Michael Kubosh .......832-393-3005 Position 4 - Amanda Edwards ....832-393-3012 Position 5 - Jack Christie ...........832-393-3006
HARRIS COUNTY Auto Registration........................713-368-2000 County Clerk Stan Stanart ..........713-755-6411 Clerk’s Office – Marriage license.713-755-6436
Clerk’s Office –Real Property......713-755-6439 Constable Ron Hickman.............281-376-3472 County Judge Ed Emmett...........713-755-4000 Driver’s License..........................713-224-1919 Library ......................................713-749-9000 Main Telephone..........................713-755-5000 Precinct 1 El Franco Lee, Commissioner.....713-755-6111 Precinct 3 Steve Radack, Commissioner 713-755-6306 Precinct 4 R. Jack Cagle, Commissioner......281-353-8100 Permits.......................................713-956-3000 Property Tax...............................713-368-2000 Vital Statistics.............................713-755-6382 Voter Registration.713-368-2200/713-224-1919
Furniture Bank...........................713-842-9771 Girl Scouts..................................713-292-0300 Houston Area Women’s Center...713-528-6798 Interfaith Ministry......................713-522-3955 Junior Achievement....................713-682-4500 Licensed Day Care List ..............713-940-5200 Medicare....................................800-442-2620 Mental Health Association..........713-523-8963 Neighborhood Centers Inc. (Day Care Information)...............713-667-9400 Poison Control............................713-654-1701 Sheltering Arms Sr. Services........713-956-1888 United Way................................713-685-2300 Y.M.C.A.....................................713-659-8501 Y.W.C.A.....................................713-868-9922
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
CONSUMER RESOURCES
TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVES Patricia Harless, District 126.......281-376-4114 Allen Fletcher, District 130..........281-373-5454 Debbie Riddle, District 150.........281-257-4222 Armando Walle, District 140.......713-694-8020 TEXAS STATE SENATORS Paul Bettencourt, District 7 ........713-464-0282 John Whitmire, District 15 .........713-864-8701 UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Kevin Brady................................936-441-5700 John Culberson ..........................713-682-8828 Al Green....................................713-383-9234 Sheila Jackson Lee ....................713-861-4070 Ted Poe..............281-446-0242 / 866-447-0242 Gene Green................................281-999-5879 UNITED STATES SENATORS John Cornyn...............................713-572-3337 Ted Cruz....................................713-718-3057
Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500 Consumer Credit Counseling......713-923-2227 CSC Credit Service.....................800-753-1312 Consumer Fraud – Harris County................... 713-755-5836 Texas Consumer Protection – Attorney General........................713-223-5886 Texas Taxpayers & Research.......512-472-8838 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.....................800-638-2772 U.S. Consumer Information........800-688-9889
ART Cultural Arts Council of Houston & Harris County...........713-527-9330 Society for the Performing Arts...713-227-5134 Texas Commission on the Arts....512-463-5535
BUSINESS RESOURCES Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500 Small Business Administration....713-773-6500 State Comptroller of Public Accounts..........................713-868-9112 Texas Dept. of Economic Dev. ...512-936-0101 Texas Railroad Commission........713-869-5001 U.S. Customs..............................281-985-6700 U.S. Dept. of Commerce.............800-872-8723
FAMILY RESOURCES AARP – National Office.............800-424-3410 AARP – Southwest Region.........214-265-4060 Amigos de las Americas..............713-782-5290 Boy Scouts..................................713-659-8111 Child Care Council ....................713-266-6045 Children’s Protective Services......713-394-4000 Crisis Hotline..............................713-468-5463 Family Service Center.................713-861-4849 Food Bank..................................713-223-3700
HOUSING INFORMATION Houston Apartment Assoc..........281-933-2224 Houston Assoc. of REALTORS..713-629-1900 Houston Relocation Professionals www.houstonrelopros.org
LEGAL RESOURCES Houston Bar Association.............713-759-1133 Houston Lawyer Referral Ser. .....713-237-9429 Texas Lawyer Referral Ser. .........800-252-9690
MISC. Harris County Dem. Party..........713-802-0085 Harris County Rep. Party............713-838-7900 Houston Chronicle .....................713-220-7171 Houston ISD..............................713-892-7700 Internal Revenue Service.............800-829-1040 League of Women Voters............713-784-2923 National Weather Service............281-337-5074 Social Security Administration....800-772-1213 Texas Environmental Quality Commission...................713-767-3500 Yellow Cab.................................713-236-1111
SPORTS AND TICKET INFORMATION Houston Astros....800-ASTROS-2/713-627-9622 Houston Dynamos ....................713-276-7500 Houston Rockets.........................713-627-9622 Houston Texans..........................832-662-2000 NRG Stadium ............................713-289-2002
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INTERNATIONAL RELOCATION INFORMATION
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
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.
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. 44
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.
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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 • 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.
NEW HOMES/BUILDERS/ COMMUNITIES www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com Realtors are independent and can help you locate a newly constructed home available from a variety of builders. Builder sales reps. work for the builder. If you are working with a Realtor, you should register your Realtor with the homebuilder when you arrive.
TAXES STATE OF TEXAS Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax and property tax only.
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.
EDUCATION DAY CARE: www.childcarecenter.us • Some centers only care for children until they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5. Other schools offer Kindergarten. • Will need your child’s birth certificate, social security number, passport, application. • Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different times of the day. Ask for referrals.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS PK-12 Texas Education Association: tea.texas.gov • Required for children 6-18 years of age in USA. • Child’s birth certificate, passport, social security number, transcript, doctor’s statement. • The Houston area has excellent public
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.
schools which serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade. • You can research individual school districts, schools, ratings and test scores at the Texas Education Association web site. •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
PRIVATE SCHOOLS • HoustonNewcomerGuides.com • Houstonprivateschools.com • 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 International Baccalaureate program and might be better suited for children planning to later attend university outside the US.
RELOCATOIN IMMIGRATION VISA Most questions are answered on the United States Citizenship & Immigration web sites below. Contact your Consulate about your country’s requirements. General How Do I Guides: • www.uscis.gov | www.uscitizenship.info Employment Visas: • www.travel.state.gov | www.uscis.gov Green Card: www.uscis.gov/greencard Permanent Residents: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov
PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.state.tx.us • Dogs & cats must be vaccinated by 4 months of age followed by booster shots every couple of years. • Pets not wearing license tags and/or leashed can be impounded.
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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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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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APOSTOLIC Apostolic Life Tabernacle ..............................281-852-2276 ASSEMBLIES OF GOD Dayspring Church ...........................................281-354-3558 Embrace Fellowship Church .........................281-689-8383 Gospel Assembly Church ...............................281-446-0004 Gospel Assembly Porter .................................281-354-1744 Humble First Assembly of God .......................281-446-7215 Kingwood First Assembly of God ...................281-446-7215 Kingwood Assembly of Christ ........................281-359-3004 New Life Assembly of God .............................281-689-7558 New Life Church on Northpark ......................281-360-7766 Pinecrest Assembly of God ............................281-354-3332 Porter First Assembly of God ..........................281-354-3558 BAPTIST Atascocita First Baptist Church.......................281-852-2620 Berean Baptist Church ...................................281-441-3292 Bread of Life Baptist Church ..........................281-441-2506 Community Baptist Church ............................281-324-3871 Cornerstone Baptist Church ..........................281-354-4660 Cypress Point Baptist Church .........................281-360-8922 Deerbrook Baptist Church ............................281-446-2790 Evergreen Missionary Baptist .........................281-354-5055 First Baptist Church Porter ..............................281-354-3339 Faith Family Baptist Church ............................281-360-7576 Heritage Baptist Church .................................936-588-6964 Humble Area’s First Baptist Church ...............281-446-8168 Iglesia Cristiana la Cosecha ..........................281-540-2506 Kingwood First Baptist Church .......................281-358-4266 Lakeland Baptist Church.................................281 441-9473 Landmark Missionary Baptist Church ............281-354-3134 North Belt Baptist Church ...............................281-441-2254 Northeast Houston Baptist Church ................281-812-8688 North Harris County Baptist Temple...............281-441-3529 North Park Baptist Church ..............................281-821-2258 Northview Baptist Church ..............................281-446-3513 Northway Baptist Church ...............................281-713-9468 Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church ............281-548-2001 Second Baptist Church ..................................713-465-3408 Suburban Wood Baptist Church....................281-441-3959 Woodridge Baptist Church.............................281-361-6800 CATHOLIC Our Lady of St. John Church ..........................713-631-0810 Resurrection Catholic Church .......................713-675-5333 Sacred Heart Catholic Church .....................281-328-4871 St. Martha’s Catholic Church ........................281-358-6637 St. Martin De Porres Church ...........................281-328-4451 St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church..........281-446-8211 St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church ..........281-324-1478
CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Deerbrook ......................281-540-1205 Church of Christ at Lake Houston .................281-852-7946 Church of Christ in Humble ............................281-446-2562 Church of Christ Kingwood ............................281-358-3865 Lake Houston Church of Christ ......................281-852-7946 Porter Church of Christ ................................. 281-572-2388 EPISCOPAL Christ the King Episcopal Church ..................281-852-1990 Church of the Resurrection ............................832-661-9693 Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd....281-358-3154 ISLAM Ghous-e-Azam Masjid ....................................832-366-4476 Islamic Society of Greater HoustonNorthshore Masjid Isa ibn Maryam ................713-455-0786 JEHOVAH’S WITNESS Kingdom Hall ...................................................281-324-1297 Kingdom Hall ..................................................281-441-7214 Kingdom Hall ...................................................713-330-0686 Kingdom Hall ...................................................281-399-7137 Kingdom Hall ...................................................281-354-2945 JEWISH Gethsemani Temple Northshore....................713-674-2872 Shalom Hebraic Christian Congregation .....281-348-7807 Temple Beth Torah ..........................................281-446-5611 LUTHERAN Atascocita Lutheran Church..........................281 852-7333 Christ the King Lutheran Church ...................281-360-7936 Holy Comforter Lutheran Church ..................281-358-6500 Lamb of God Lutheran Church .....................281-446-8427 METHODIST Atascocita United Methodist Church ...........281-852-1000 First United Methodist Church ........................281-446-2332 Friendship United Methodist Church .............281-354-2326 Kingwood United Methodist Church ............281-358-2137 Strawbridge United Methodist Church .........281-360-4500 MORMON Church of Jesus Christ.....................................281-360-7875 Church of Jesus Christ.....................................281-361-8710 Church of Jesus Christ.....................................281-852-8901 NON DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Christian Fellowship ..........................281-354-2464 Christian Life Community Church .................713 631-4851 Community Christian Fellowship ...................281-358-0160 Crossroads Fellowship .....................................713-455-1661 Elijah Fire Church .............................................832-598-8747 Evangelical Christian Ministries.......................281-312-3262
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PLACES OF WORSHIP
Family Christian Academy..............................713 455-4483 Grace Family Church .....................................832-476-3184 In Christ Ministries International ......................281 446-3808 Lord’s Glory Church ........................................281-446-0091 Maximized Life Christian Center International ....................................................281-457-5683 New Covenant Church of Humble ...............281-312-0139 Restoration House Church .............................281-843-4000 River Crest Church .........................................281- 446-8591 River of God Church .......................................281 358-7770 Rock of Ages Church .................................... 281-462-0531 The Church of Foundation of Truth ...............281-319-4008 The Daily Bread ...............................................832-249-0100 The Lighthouse Church of Houston................281-741-3693 The Lighthouse Church South ........................281-741-3693 Tribe of Judah Ministries ..................................281-358-7770 Nuevo Pacto Church .....................................281-548-2098 Victory Outreach Church ............................. 713-742-9000 Worldwide Prayer and Revival Center .........281-548-7262 NAZARENE Lake Houston Church .....................................281-852-6273 North Belt Church of Nazareneq....................281-441-4466 Woodsdale Church of the Nazarene ...........281-442-4107 PENTECOSTAL The Pentecostal Church of Atascocita ........281-852-0147 The Church of Humble ...................................281-540-7729
Christian Life Center ........................................281-319-4673 Centro De Fe Poder Y Milagros......................832-644-9117 Souls Harbor Pentecostal Church..................281-446-9595 United Church of God ....................................281-446-1510 PRESBYTERIAN Atascocita Presbyterian Church....................281-852-8990 First Presbyterian Church of Kingwood .........281-360-5555 Soldiers of the Cross – Christ ...........................281-359-0009 OTHERS Atascocita Community Church.....................281-852-2900 Chapel in the Forest .......................................281-360-5433 Christian Tabernacle ......................................713-453-7000 Companions of the Lamb ..............................281-852-4743 Discovery Church ...........................................281-652-6039 Forestwood Bible Church ..............................281-358-6161 Gospel Assembly Church ...............................281 446-0004 Grace Church .................................................281-441-1111 Grace Fellowship Bible Church......................281-852-5298 Kingwood Bible Church ..................................281-360-5231 Kingwood Christian Church ...........................281-360-7910 Maranatha Temple ........................................281-354-3558 North Forest Christian Fellowship ...................281-359-1490 The Church of Humble....................................281-540-7729
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
THE LIGHTHOUSE CHURCH EXPANDS TO REACH RESIDENTS IN HOUSTON AND SURROUNDING AREAS
said Pastor Keion Henderson. “Houston is a great place to live and we are blessed to expand in this region.” Recognized around the world for its unwav-
Founded in 2009 by Pastor Keion Henderson,
Katy area in order to meet the needs of local
ering commitment to global evangelism,
The Lighthouse Church began with less than
residents. From vibrant children and youth
philanthropy and missions, The Lighthouse
100 members and has become one of the
ministries to small groups and programs, The
Church continues to empower countless lives
fastest growing churches in North America
Lighthouse Church offers a myriad of oppor-
for the glory of God.
with more than 10,000 members who
tunities centered around its five core values
attend weekly worship experiences across
of anticipation, atmosphere, acceptance,
To learn more about The Lighthouse Church,
four campuses.
authenticity, and action.
visit https://lhhouston.church/.
The church has expanded to open locations in
“We look forward to impacting families and
Instagram - @lhhoustonchurch | @pastorkeion
Central Houston, Humble, Sugar Land and the
children in Houston and surrounding areas,”
Facebook – The Lighthouse Church
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
In this section area hospitals moving medical tips
50
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Northeast Houston have grown over the years to meet the healthcare needs of the communities they serve. Patients now have the opportunity to heal closer to home, work and family.
AREA HOSPITALS
Medical services have kept pace with
addition, wellness centers situated in hospi-
northeast Houston’s growing population,
tals or affiliated with a physician’s practice
and residents find family doctors, special-
support patients in weight or stress reduc-
Memorial Hermann
ists, emergency clinics and several large,
tion, physiotherapy, mental health and
713-222-2273; www.memorialhermann.org
award-winning hospitals close to home. Since
lifestyle practices for general wellbeing.
many facilities are new, they offer the latest
Advancing Health in Houston - Memorial Hermann has created Houston’s largest,
in advanced cardiac care, cancer research and
PHYSICIAN REFERRAL
healing, trauma care, sports medicine and
Asking friends and neighbors for recom-
treatment in many other areas. Neighbor-
mendations is a good way to find doctors
hood emergency centers and clinics provide
and
prompt care, treating injuries, illnesses and
sometimes you need help more quickly.
giving evaluations and physicals, often with
Physician referral services are available
extended hours and minimal wait times.
throughout the greater Houston area and
the best health care possible by harnessing
work with new families to match their
leading-edge technology and using the safest
For more extensive medical treatment, the
specific needs and location with doctors
methods. For patients, it means having
world-renowned Texas Medical Center is
and services in the area. After answering
the best tools to prevent health problems
only an hour’s drive away.
questions about the type of care you
as well as the best chance to regain their
require, your location and your avail-
health following an illness or injury. It’s
Specialty care centers that handle substance
ability, several recommendations will be
no wonder Memorial Hermann is the only
abuse, smoking cessation, weight loss and
provided. There is no charge for this confi-
Houston health system to receive both
eating disorders are also located nearby. In
dential service.
the National Quality Forum’s National
other
health
professionals,
but
full-service, integrated health system focused on advancing the health of the community. For the system’s 6,700 affiliated physicians and 27,000 employees, it means exercising uncompromising commitment to deliver
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
Quality Healthcare Award in 2009 and the 2012 John M. Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and Quality from The Joint Commission and the National Quality Forum, the nation’s guardians of health and safety.
MOVING MEDICAL TIPS
52
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 for you to take with you. Pack these records in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency.
5
It is extremely important that you get the immunization records for your children before you move. You cannot enroll your children in local schools without these records. You will also need certified copies of your children’s birth certificates as well as the addresses of your children’s former schools.
6
If you are a member of a healthcare HMO/PPO plan, or have a prescription drug card, be sure to notify the company of your moving plans. The insurance company should be able to provide you with a list of physicians/ healthcare facilities in the area.
7
Pack an emergency first aid kit to take en route to your new home. Items such as bandages, thermometer, pain killers or aspirin, antihistamine, firstaid ointment, tweezers and decongestant can come in handy.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
One of the largest not-for-profit health systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann is an integrated system serving Southeast Texas and the Greater Houston community with more than 300 care delivery sites. A 19-hospital system, Memorial Hermann owns and operates 14 hospitals and has joint ventures with five other hospital facilities. The Memorial Hermann network includes the country’s busiest Level I trauma center, an academic medical center affiliated with McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) and numerous specialty programs and services. The system also operates four Heart & Vascular Institute locations; the Memorial Hermann Mischer Neuroscience Institute at the Texas Medical Center; the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute at four locations; eight Memorial Hermann Joint Centers offering advanced treatment options for joint pain; Women’s Memorial Hermann; Memorial Hermann Life Flight® – the largest and busiest air ambulance service in the United States; the Prevention and Recovery Center for chemical dependency treatment; and a comprehensive array of home health services, rehabilitation centers, outpatient imaging and laboratory services. The system’s ambulatory care network also includes Memorial Hermann Urgent Care and Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Centers. Using its resources to advance the health of the community, Memorial Hermann contributes in excess of $451 million annually in uncompensated care and community benefit programs, including an award-winning network of public school-based health centers. A premier healthcare provider for the Lake Houston area and surrounding communities, Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital is the primary hospital for passengers at Bush Intercontinental Airport. Memorial Hermann Northeast provides a full array of
high-quality services, patient-centered care and leading-edge technology. The hospital’s trained and experienced staff and affiliated doctors span a diverse range of medical specialties and disciplines to offer area residents quality care close to home, including interventional cardiology, wound care, spine surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, robotic surgery and women’s services. A collaboration with UT Physicians brings additional specialists to the campus in cardiothoracic
and
vascular
surgery,
orthopedics and oncology. The hospital offers Houston’s longest-accredited Cancer Center outside the Texas Medical Center. The
Imaging
Center
features
top-of-
the-line imaging technologies including tomosynthesis (3D mammography). In order to better meet the needs of loweracuity
patients,
Memorial
Hermann
Northeast opened a $2.93 million Clinical Decision Unit where patients can receive dedicated monitoring following a procedure or Emergency Center visit. The hospital recently broke ground on a new 123,000-square foot patient tower with 90 updated patient rooms and dining services that will provide an enhanced experience for patients, visitors, and staff. The hospital is a strong supporter of the community and serves as the official healthcare provider for three area school district athletic programs. Affiliated with Memorial Hermann Northeast, the Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Center in Summer Creek, located at Beltway 8 and W. Lake Houston Parkway, provides
highly
coordinated
access
to
adult and pediatric primary care, specialty services,
outpatient
imaging
and
lab
services, sports medicine and rehabilitation, women’s services and 24-hour emergency care - all under one roof. Same-day appoint-
HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood has provided the community with high quality, cost-effective healthcare for more 25 years. As part of Houston’s largest healthcare system, HCA Houston Healthcare, the employees of HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood are dedicated to living out the HCA Healthcare mission statement: “Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.” Conveniently located at the intersection of Highway 59 and Kingwood Drive, the full-service 411-bed acute-care hospital has 500 physicians and 1,500 healthcare professionals on staff to care for residents in the Northeast Houston area, including North Harris, East Montgomery and Liberty counties. HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood was one of four hospitals in Texas to receive the 2018 Top General Hospital award. This award is only give to the nation’s highest performing hospitals that have met the high standards defined in the Leapfrog Group’s Top Hospital Methodology. The hospitals must also have received a Leapfrog “A” Hospital Safety grade, which HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood has earned for three consecutive grading periods. The hospital is home to award-winning programs that improve the health of patients and our community, such as the Brain & Spine Center, which is a DNV-certified Comprehensive Stroke Center. HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood is the leader in northeast Houston in treating patients suffering from stroke, aneurysm, brain tumors and spinal injuries. Neuro-endovascular procedures such as mechanical thrombectomy offer hope to those suffering from a large vessel stroke. The rehabilitation unit provides care close to home for patients to assist in recovery and recuperation.
ments often available and extended evening and weekend hours make it even more convenient for area residents to get the highquality care they need close to home. A second Lake Houston area Convenient Care Center opened in Kingwood in late 2018. HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood www.kingwoodmedical.com
HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood’s Cardiovascular Center was the first in northeast Houston to provide an interventional cardiology program. The center continues to be a leader in prompt, evidence-based cardiovascular care and offers the area’s only open-heart surgery and electrophysiology programs. HCA
Houston Healthcare Kingwood’s Accredited Chest Pain Center provides pulmonary diagnostics and stress testing for early diagnosis of cardiac disease. In order to provide complete
recovery
to
patients,
HCA
Houston Healthcare Kingwood’s cardiac rehabilitation center exists to ease patients into a healthy lifestyle after a cardiac event. The woman’s tower boasts a Labor & Delivery unit that is able to care for all types of pregnancies and deliveries. The unit includes high-risk OB and Level II and III neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in order for our patients and their babies to receive acute care in their community. The neonatal transport team brings babies by ground or air to the NICU when specialized care is needed.
HCA
Houston Healthcare Kingwood offers the only Pediatric Emergency Department in the Lake Houston area, which is staffed 24/7 with pediatricians and pediatric registered nurses experienced in emergency medicine. Because of the prevalence of breast cancer in women, HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood has recently expanded and renovated its breast care program with Solis Mammography. The Solis Breast Center at HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood is a comprehensive center providing patients with advanced technology and expertise in breast imaging; including full field digital, tomosynthesis (3-D), diagnostic ultrasound, stereotactic and ultrasound breast biopsies and bone density studies. HCA
Houston
Healthcare
Kingwood
also offers an Accredited Sleep Disorder Center, a 24-Hour Emergency Care Center in Fall Creek, with a second freestanding emergency center opening in Cleveland in summer 2019, and is affiliated with CareNow Urgent Care to provide convenient care in Kingwood and Atascocita.
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In this section
Photo courtesy of Uptown Park
area associations houston by the numbers major employers
54
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
BUSINESS &
COMMUNITY Northeast Houston is a significant part of the dynamic business environment and has seen tremendous growth in corporate relocations, business development and new residents in recent years. As the population in the area grows, demand has been created for more offices, hotels, restaurants, shops and mixed-use developments.
NORTHEAST HOUSTON IS WORKING
and information technology, the Houston
for the likes of Amazon, GE Oil and Gas,
region will offer a strong infrastructure to
and Koch Industries. Lake Houston, the
creates
support these growing industries, plus a
city’s main source of water, has a signifi-
opportunities. According to the Greater
highly trained and skilled workforce. And
cant effect on the local economy through
residents will continue to arrive from other
vendors, service companies and tourism.
states and other countries.
It’s no wonder that the area’s housing starts
Houston’s Houston
diversified Partnership,
economy
Metro
Houston
added 14,800 jobs last year and that trend
are up significantly, too.
is expected to continue. More than 200 million short tons of international cargo
Many of them will settle in Northeast
were handled in 2018 alone. The Texas
Houston, which has seen tremendous growth
AREA ASSOCIATIONS
Medical Center will handle another
in corporate relocations, business develop-
8 million patient visits. Area refiners
ment and job growth in recent years. The
North Houston District www.northhouston.org
will continue to supply one-fourth of
region is close to key employers such as Bush
the nation’s gasoline, diesel and jet fuel
Intercontinental Airport, and FMC Tech-
needs. More than 230,000 Houstonians
nologies at the Generation Park campus,
will hold jobs in manufacturing. More
the ExxonMobil Corp. campus, the Port of
tinental Airport and the Port of Houston,
than 5,700 Houston firms will engage in
Houston, as well as many companies and
making it an ideal place to conduct busi-
international business. From energy to
facilities in the petrochemical industry,
ness locally and around the globe. Over
health care, nanotechnology, aerospace
and warehouses and distribution centers
4,000 companies call North Houston
The North Houston District is a dynamic community 15 miles north of downtown Houston and minutes from Bush Intercon-
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salar y 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.
home, including industry leaders like Halliburton Co., Baker Hughes, Honeywell, and Amazon. Truly the downtown of Houston’s north side, North Houston is a thriving business center and offers a variety of retail, residential, dining and recreation options. Each of these areas has unique needs and the District serves as an advocate on behalf of the area. The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com The Grand Parkway is a 180-mile loop
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
around metropolitan Houston. In 2016, the highway was completed from U.S. 59 South in Fort Bend County, all the way to U.S. 59
Phoenix
61,439
New York City
25,910
Detroit
61,826
Los Angeles
41,996
of the Grand Parkway are now tolled. Work
Austin
61,375
Chicago
50,705
completed as Houston’s third highway ring.
San Francisco
33,401
Las Vegas
54,455
The North Houston Association
Boston
40,832
Portland
45,498
www.north-houston.com
Denver
53,759
St. Louis
63,697
The North Houston Association advocates
Miami
52,467
Raleigh
65,105
advance the business environment and
Pittsburgh
59,757
Cincinnati
64,818
improve the quality of life in North Harris
Dallas
61,311
Charleston
58,336
organization works with its members to
North in Northeast Houston. Many portions will continue until the Grand Parkway is
and supports projects and initiatives which
and Montgomery counties. The non-profit consider issues of mobility, education, workforce training, the environment, and quality of life, all of which have a profound and lasting effect on the economic development of
the business climate and
community of the area. For over 35 years, the mission of the North Houston Association has been to build strong alliances with partners that share common goals and together they have been able to achieve milestones such as building grassroots support for the Hardy Toll Road, advocating for the Grand Parkway, establishing the Greens Bayou Corridor Coalition, developing the Aerial Land Use Map, creating a Strategic Mobility Plan and many other initiatives..
56
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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AREA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Crosby-Huffman Chamber of Commerce www.crosbyhuffmancc.org The Crosby-Huffman Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer-run resource that seeks to advance civic, commercial, industrial and agricultural interests and promote the general welfare and prosperity of the community. It is an organization that is working to preserve the
has offices in Mexico City, Malta, Panama
With
City, Dubai, Rio and Beijing.
networking opportunities, as well as a
The Greater East Montgomery County Chamber works to provide local business owners with assistance with the growth of their businesses. Serving the communities of Kingwood, Porter, New Caney, Splendora, Roman Forest, Patton Village, Woodbranch and Grangerland, the chamber has many networking activities and annual events where members can connect with other businesses and potential new customers. With
the
East
Montgomery
events
and
multitude of services, the Chamber gears all efforts toward developing a healthy
www.kwchamber.org
economic climate for citizens and the busi-
The Kingwood Chamber of Commerce
nesses that operate in the area.
works to encourage healthy commercial
With its members, the Chamber is focused on
activity in the Kingwood area, seeking to
job creation, transportation, community devel-
be the front door to the beautiful commu-
opment and quality of life and is diligently
nity, while encouraging residents to “shop at
working to preserve the Lake Houston area as
home before they roam.”
a great place to work, live, play and succeed.
The Chamber serves to enhance business
North Channel Area Chamber of Commerce www.northchannelarea.com
success and ensure the economic future of the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber www.gemcchamber.com
programs,
Kingwood Chamber of Commerce
eastern lake Houston area’s proud past, while providing for its citizen’s future.
various
area. It provides a strong connection to the local customer base, promotes local business and gives a voice to area businesses in polit-
This active Chamber of Commerce is all about
ical activities and conversations. Through its
making the North Channel Area a better place
Information Center, the Chamber publicizes
to live and work. Representing almost 800
events and organizes special projects. It offers
businesses, the chamber publishes a monthly
members many advantages and opportunities
newsletter that spotlights local businesses;
to get involved and meet people.
it has many networking events, sponsorship opportunities, and ways to get involved. The
The Lake Houston
Chamber also provides referrals and cost-effec-
Area Chamber of Commerce
tive advertising to member businesses.
www.lakehouston.org A non-profit, non-government entity, the
County
Improvement District and the Small Business Development Center of the Lone Star College System, the Chamber and its
The Lake Houston Area Chamber of
North Channel Area Chamber of Commerce
Commerce is the organized voice for the
operates on membership dues and funds
quality of life and business in Atascocita,
raised by business-related programs and
Humble, Kingwood and Summer Creek.
special events.
members have been striving since 1990 to promote the economic well-being and quality of life of its businesses and residents.
MAJOR NORTHEAST AREA EMPLOYERS
Houston International Chamber of Commerce www.houstonicc.org
George Bush Intercontinental Airport
Weatherford
Humble Independent School District
Empire Steel
Insperity
Expeditors International
The Houston International Chamber of
Kingwood Medical Center
Commerce helps newcomers grow their
Memorial Hermann Hospital Northeast
businesses. For almost 35 years, the orga-
FMC Technologies
Jetco Delivery
nization has motivated, organized and
Alorica Customer and Financial
Texas Steel Conversion
directed efforts in the business community
Care Services Center
Forged Components
and helped many businesses from small
Kroger
entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies
Panalpina
Tenaris Coiled Tubes
with thousands of employees. The member-
CDI Energy Products
ship includes several foreign consulates
Lawler Foods
and people from many countries, such as
Dangerous Goods Management
Chevron Phillips
Mexico, Canada, China, Japan, and United
Union Tank Car Co.
Humble Surgical Hospital
Aspen Manufacturing
Faith Manufacturing Orion Engineered Carbons
Kingdom, to name a few. In addition, HICC
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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In this section parks & attractions arts and culture sports and golf calendar of events
58
NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
LEISURE & RECREATION
With natural beauty, temperate climate, diverse cultures and lots of fun folks, Houston offers plenty of amusing entertainment.
In
only
One of the best websites for finding out about
at a young age, they will be more likely
minutes away from a world-class arts and
Northeast
Houston,
you’re
special events in Houston is www.visithouston.
to finish school and maybe even develop
cultural scene. Houston’s live theatre,
com, the official site of the Greater Houston
their own talents and career potential.
music, and opera are highly regarded;
Convention and Visitors Bureau.
and the fine arts, both classic and contemporary, are on display for all to enjoy at galleries and museums in the Museum District. There are sporting events all year, and the city’s parks welcome picnickers, hikers, bicyclists, boaters and pets. But there are creative enjoyments to be found in Northeast Houston, too. Houston also hosts many annual events including the world’s largest rodeo and art car parade. The city’s diverse personality shines through with buoyant annual events such as the Chinese New Year,
NECAC’s major project, the Summer The website includes a visitor’s guide, inter-
Arts Enrichment Program, seeks to create
active maps, coupons and discounts, and
cultural awareness and appreciation for the
itinerary ideas. One of its most popular features is the Houston CityPass, which allows holders to skip lines and get in to 5 of Houston’s must-see attractions at a discount. These include Space Center Houston, the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science and others.
a
community
bitions, events and museums, provide a diversified choice for career considerations and enhance the self-esteem and confidence of the young participants.
the arts at www.summerarts-houston.org.
The Northeast Cultural Arts Council is
talents, expose students to a variety of exhi-
See how NECAC is transforming lives through
THE NORTHEAST CULTURAL ARTS COUNCIL (NECAC)
classical arts, nurture participants’ artistic
based,
THE ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth and GLBT
non-profit organization that works to
The arts reach deep into the fabric of life in
Pride Celebration. It’s often said that
provide children with exposure to the arts
Northeast Houston. From dramatic work-
Houston doesn’t cherish its history, but
and humanities in a safe, creative learning
shops and partnerships between schools
that’s not the case with traditions like the
environment. The people at NECAC
and arts organizations, to support for
80-year-old Azalea Trail and numerous
believe that when people are given the
at-risk youths by giving incentives to attend
historic home tours.
opportunity to develop creative interests
concerts, the arts touch lives in many ways.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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LEISURE & RECREATION
and wildlife species, white sand beaches along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs with ancient cypress trees and a pristine hardwood and pine forest. There are more than eight miles of pedestrian trails and many more primitive trails. The nature center has permanent and rotating displays of local flora and fauna. Redbud Hill Homestead is a re-creation of an 1820s-30s Texas colonization era homestead and it sits beside a recreated Akokisa-Ishak Indian Village. There are also playgrounds, picnic facilities, and a wide variety of innovative, educational and entertaining programs.
LAKE HOUSTON WILDERNESS PARK
PARKS & ATTRACTIONS
for the geologist who donated the 309 acres) has boat ramps, fishing piers, jogging trails,
The land of Houston’s Northeast is slightly
picnic areas, pavilions, playgrounds, a senior
rolling and covered by an extensive forest
center, a duck pond and a water gazebo.
made up primarily of pine. Settled on the watershed of the San Jacinto River and
CARTER PARK
beside the vast Lake Houston, the people of
Located near Spring, Carter Park is a lovely
Houston’s Northeast have a wide array of
spot to get away from the urban clamor. Visi-
green spaces to enjoy. Within the many parks
tors can practice archery, ride a bicycle, walk
dotted around the area are opportunities for
a lovely nature trail, share a picnic at one of
canoeing, fishing, cycling, playing sports or
the many tables or in the pavilion, launch a
just relaxing and appreciating nature.
canoe or fish in Spring Creek.
Texas Parks and Wildlife oversees the Texas
DENNIS JOHNSON PARK
Pineywoods and provides information and a list of parks and amenities on their website, at www.tpwd.texas.gov. The following is a sampling of the many parks and recreation areas in the area. For more information like hours, specific amenities, maps and reservations, contact
Dennis Johnson Park is part of the Spring Creek Greenway and connects to Pundt Park, the Jesse H. Jones Park and Stahl Preserve. In this lovely, leafy gem, visitors can access Spring Creek. There are also picnic tables, a pavilion, a pergola, a small pond, walking trails and a butterfly and
the park directly.
hummingbird garden. Big Stone Lodge is
City of Houston Parks
center that is available for private functions
www.houstontx.gov/parks
on some Friday and Saturday evenings.
Harris County Parks
JESSE H. JONES PARK AND NATURE CENTER
www.harriscountytx.gov/parks
ALEXANDER DEUSSEN PARK
located within the park and is a community
The Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center helps visitors relax, have fun and get a
Situated on the south shore of Lake
glimpse of the area’s history all at the same
Houston, Alexander Deussen Park (named
time. The park features a variety of plant
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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In Lake Houston Wilderness Park’s almost 5,000 acres of wooded parkland, visitors can hike, bike, kayak, horseback ride and even stay overnight in cabins or walk-in campsites. The heavily forested park also houses the Pine Grove Dining Hall and a nature center with displays of forest and wetland habitats, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates. Guests young and old can learn about deer, snakes, turtles, even dissect an owl pellet. Or they can go geo-caching, scavenger hunting, fishing, orienteering and more.
LINDSAY/LYONS PARK AND SPORTS COMPLEX This park is all about sports and it features 10 baseball, four softball, two football and two soccer fields – all lighted. In addition, there are 18 unlighted soccer fields, a barbecue pavilion, three 30-seat picnic pavilions, picnic tables and two playgrounds. For those not playing or watching the game, there is a paved walking trail and a sensory garden for sight-impaired children.
MERCER ARBORETUM AND BOTANIC GARDENS Along the banks of Cypress Creek and divided by Aldine Westfield, nationally recognized Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens has beautiful, well-maintained gardens that feature bamboo, color displays, daylilies, endangered species, ferns, gingers, herbs, tropical and much more. There are also two playgrounds, a picnic area,
a hickory bog and boardwalk, a cypress swamp and maple collection and several miles of walking trails. Many on-going programs connect people to plants, like the Chrysanthemum Society, Stroller Strolls, and Children’s Story Time in the Garden. There are many educational programs and tours offered at the center and the team of experienced botanists, horticulturist and gardeners offer a wealth of knowledge and information; they are happy to welcome you and assist you in any way they can.
STAHL PRESERVE The large, pristine fishing lake of Stahl Preserve sits tranquilly among magnificent magnolia, ancient cypress trees and many other wildlife and plant species. Along the lake’s edges are paved hike and bike, natural surface and equestrian trails. The 5.5 mile section of paved trail that connects Pundt Park to Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is part of the Spring Creek Greenway Trail.
a refuge for 370 species of birds, mammals,
Battleship Texas became the first memorial
reptiles and amphibians including white-
museum of its kind in the United States and
tailed deer, armadillos, swamp rabbits,
is permanently anchored on the Houston
bobcats, coyotes, venomous and non-ven-
Ship Channel. The Battleship Texas program
omous snakes, turtles, alligators and frogs.
provides many recreational and educational
Visitors enjoy the melody of songbirds,
experiences for visitors as well as numerous
such as warblers, flycatchers, orioles and
programs and self-guided tours.
painted buntings, and the cry of birds-ofprey, such as osprey, owls and kites. The broad diversity of flora and fauna is due to the intermingling of three distinct ecosystems – forest, prairie and bayou. Visitors can escape the stress of urban life by hiking six trails, delighting in the joys of bird watching or reliving the past at a recreated farm.
dence from Mexico. The world’s largest masonry structure invites visitors to learn about events that shaped Texas history. 281-479-2421 Gulf Greyhound Park www.gulfgreyhound.com At Gulf Greyhound Park, the world’s largest
NORTHEAST HOUSTON & SURROUNDING AREA ATTRACTIONS Bayou Wildlife Park Bayouwildlifezoo.com | 281-337-6376 Feed animals and birds from Africa, India,
TURKEY CREEK PARK
Asia, Australia and South America. An
Turkey Creek Park is an equestrian throughway in Cypress Creek Greenway. It connects riders to more than 80 miles of equestrian trails surrounding George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Note: the trails at IAH are open only to riders certified through the Houston Airport System’s Airport Ranger program. However, with Turkey Creek Park and the Cypress Creek Greenway, full-day excursions are readily available to horses and their riders.
adventure-filled tram ride takes you over 86
Armand Bayou Nature Center www.abnc.org | 281-474-2551
Site of the battle that won Texas indepen-
acres of natural habitat. Battleship Texas and San Jacinto Monument Museum www.sanjacinto-museum.org 281-479-2431
and
most
successful
greyhound
racing
complex (just south of Clear Lake), the fastpaced action runs all year, rain or shine, with air-conditioned comfort on all four levels. This unique entertainment offers the thrill of greyhound racing and the excitement of pari-mutual wagering (for those 21 and older). Kemah Boardwalk www.kemahboardwalk.com “The Fun Never Stops” at the Kemah Boardwalk. A carnival midway filled with rides and amusements, great restaurants, a hotel, and marina are the main attractions. The interesting shops that line the boardwalk
Battleship Texas is anchored at the 1,200-
offer everything from souvenirs to fine art.
acre San Jacinto Battleground State Historic
Holiday events, festivals, exhibits, and live
Site where visitors can experience history
entertainment throughout the year draw an
first-hand. The only surviving combat ship
estimated 3 million visitors. Experience the
to have served in both World Wars, the
excitement of Stingray Reef, where you can
Kemah Boardwalk
Armand Bayou Nature Center, the largest urban wildlife refuge and wilderness preserve in the U.S. covers 2,500 acres adjacent to NASA/JSC. One of the last undeveloped bayous in Texas, Armand Bayou is one of only four Texas Coastal Preserves. Some 40,000 visitors annually benefit from educational tours, exhibits, events and classes. More than 1,000 acres of wetland habitat and approximately 600 acres of prairie offer
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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LEISURE & RECREATION
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. Kings Harbor www.kings-harbor.com Kings Harbor is a 20 acre mixed-use development, which provides the Kingwood / Atascocita market with an upscale development with a real sense of place. Kings Harbor includes a number of uses, including retail, restaurants, office and residential, planned into one cohesive development. Kings Harbor has the unique distinction of being the only commercial development within the market located directly on Lake Houston. The Lake Houston Wilderness Park Nature Center www.houstontx.gov/parks | 281-354-0173 A fun educational place for young and old alike. It is open from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. The center
Center offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and the opportunity to experience the natural world – all in the center of town. Visitors can explore nature by walking on five miles of trails, take classes and visit the Discovery Room and the Nature Shop at the Nature Shop.
Port of Houston Boat Tour www.porthouston.com sam-houston-boat-tour | 713-670-2416 The Port of Houston offers free, 90-minute round-trip, educational cruises along the Houston Ship Channel. Embarking from the port’s Sam Houston Landing, visiting sightseers can enjoy passing views of international
Houston Center for Photography
cargo vessels, and operations at the port’s
www.hcponline.org
Turning Basin Terminal. Measuring 95 feet
The Houston Center for Photography is
in length and 24 feet in width, the boat carries
an organization dedicated to the art of
a maximum capacity of 100 passengers, with
photography.
air-conditioned lounge seating and additional
Their
exhibition
gallery
is free to the public, and features some of the finest works of contemporary photography.
HCP also offers over 300
photography
classes
and
workshops
year-round. 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
standing room on the boat’s rear deck. Sam Houston Race Park www.shrp.com Sam Houston Race Park is one of Houston’s premier racing, dining and entertainment destinations, located just 15 minutes from Downtown. Sam Houston Race Park have a variety of exciting sports and entertainment in addition to live horse racing as well. The Park features two major racing seasons – Thorough-
opened its doors on November 9, 2007. It
position as the second-most-attended US
bred Season (January through March) and
offers displays of forest and wetland habitats,
zoo with a paid admission.
Quarter Horse Season (March through May).
a mural depicting the life cycle of butterflies.
The zoo’s multiple seasonal and permanent
The mural was created through a collabo-
attractions like holiday Zoo Lights and the
Space Center Houston www.spacecenter.org | 281-244-2105
ration between the Artist Boat, the M.D.
Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit have
Anderson YMCA, and H.P.A.R.D. It was
helped drive attendance. Gorillas of The
funded by a United Way Kids Way grant. The
African Forest gives visitors the oppor-
Lake Houston Wilderness Park Nature Center
tunity to observe gorillas in a lush forest
was made possible through the generosity of
setting adjacent to the existing chimpanzee
George Mitchell.
habitat. The Houston Zoo is open seven
amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates, and
days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. and
Space 183,000
Center
Houston,
square-foot
a
$70-million,
entertainment
and
educational complex designed by Disney Imagineering, offers hands-on, space-related experiences to visitors. In addition to a fullsize reproduction of the space shuttle, guests can use computer trainers to perform opera-
The Water Wall Galleria
is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive.
Designed by architect Philip Johnson more
Moody Gardens www.moodygardens.org | 800-582-4673
to launch a satellite or land a shuttle.
A tropical destination for families and
ings about current activities, visitors observe
groups. Explore the all new Rainforests
scientists and mission specialists at work
of the World along within the Aquarium
and in training via live video hookups. The
Pyramid®, the Discovery Museum & the
theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature
action of the IMAX® 3D, 4D or Ridefilm
space flight films. Exhibits include thousands
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
theaters. Cruise aboard the Colonel Paddle-
of space artifacts, the Skylab space station
www.houstonarboretum.org
wheel Boat, tee off at the new Moody
and the largest collection of moon rocks on
Gardens Golf Course and relax at the
display anywhere on earth. A 60-minute tram
Nestled along the western edge of Memorial
Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention
tour of the JSC complex is another source of
Park, the Houston Arboretum and Nature
Center for an ideal getaway.
entertainment and education for JSC guests.
than 20 years ago, the Galleria-area Water Wall offers a refreshing respite for visitors seeking a mid-afternoon break. The 64-foottall fountain - built to look like a “horseshoe of running water” - sits among 186 oak trees at the base of the 64-story Williams Tower.
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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tions similar to the ones the astronauts used
NASA scientists and astronauts give brief-
ARTS &
Culture
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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LEISURE & RECREATION
THEATER DISTRICT 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
including the availability of thrilling live
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.
Society for FINE the Performing Arts
Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com
performing arts spectrum, and has been doing
performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres.
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 so for over 50 years. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS)
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.
800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002
Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com
initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into
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,
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 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
64
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. NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
MUSEUM DISTRICT programs and educational opportunities.
The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com
Admission is Free.
Otherwise known as the “Garage Mahal”, The Art Car Museum is dedicated to contemporary art. It is an exhibition forum for local, national and international arts with an emphasis on art cars, other fine arts and artists that rarely, if ever, are acknowledged by other cultural institutions. Most popular to Houstonians is the annual Art Car Parade.
The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org The Health Museum is Houston’s most interactive science learning center and a member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind in the country.
Popular exhibits include:
DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com
and the McGovern 4D Theater. welcomes special exhibitions. Making art
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,
The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org
accessible to all is vital to their mission, so
As one of the most heavily attended
and inspire by being readily accessible to
museums in the United States, the Houston
future generations.
Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) seeks to enhance knowledge and delight in natural science and related subjects. It houses
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents its exceptional exhibitions and installations
nent exhibit areas that examine astronomy,
to Houston residents and visitors alike. The
space science, Native American culture,
Museum has numerous collections that fill
paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and
the galleries year-round embracing every era
minerals, Texas wildlife and more.
of history from across the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou Bend Collection not too far
The fun-filled hands on experience at the
5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org
the place for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.
away. From 2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a magnificent two new buildings.
The
Holocaust
Museum
Houston
is
dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
and other innocent victims and honoring the
5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org
survivors’ legacy. The Holocaust Museum Houston has a permanent exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remem-
Contemporary
Arts
Museum
of
Houston is an institution dedicated to
The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org
Center and a fascinating variety of perma-
Holocaust Museum Houston
leave anyone bored. For nearly 30 years,
programs are free. They hope to educate
GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly
infant play area are all under one roof. Children’s Museum of Houston will not
no admission fee is charged and all public
the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham
Mexican village, puppet show and an
The
Photos Courtesy of Children’s Museum
bers,” as well as other pieces of history.
Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg. Houston, 77204 www.blafferartmuseum.org Blaffer Art Museum helps the community to engage in contemporary art through exhibitions, publications and public programs.
The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org
This art museum is free, and open to the
collections of work and dynamic exhibi-
The Menil Collection is an art museum
gateway between the University of Houston
tions on display. CAMH also offers special
that houses both permanent collection and
and the City of Houston.
presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Patrons of every age will appreciate the
public in an effort to promote participation in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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LEISURE & RECREATION
PROFESSIONAL SPORT TEAMS Northeast Houston offers a wide variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone: couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scenes. With year-round mild temperatures, getting up and getting out has become a way of life. The Houston Astros www.astros.com
Sunday football is celebrated in NRG stadium cheering on the team, tailgating with friends in the parking lot before and after the
Winters in Houston are mild and temperate,
game, at many sports bars around town, or in
with the average high in January (the coldest
front of your own television. Go Texans!
month) at 62.9°F and the average low at
The Houston Rockets
so Houston is a golfer’s paradise.
43.2°F. There are over 200 days of sunshine,
www.houstonrockets.com The Houston Rockets are the city’s professional
National
Basketball
Association
team playing in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. Two-time world
Part of the West Division of Major League Baseball’s American League, the Houston Astros are on a roll. The Houston Astros hold the 2017 World Series title. Playing in Minute Maid Park, one of the country’s few stadiums with a retractable roof, the team serves up entertaining baseball action at home about 80 times over the course of the season. Fans enjoy gourmet hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex fare and many other delectable choices while enjoying the game. Around the park, many restaurants, clubs and music venues hop, especially on game day.
basketball champions, the Rockets are regular challengers in playoff action and always provide exciting end-to-end action in the Toyota Center. Many star players its almost-fifty-year history and now James
In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA
Hardin and the rest have launched the
professionals and First Tee Programs are
Rockets back into competitive contention.
offered throughout the greater Houston area.
The Houston Dynamo
The Clubs of Kingwood Country Club www.theclubsofkingwood.com
www.houstondynamo.com Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Housteam name is reflective, in part, of Houston: an energetic, hard-working, risktaking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, and more recently winners of the 2018 U.S. Open Cup, fans have lots to cheer about as this team continues to rank
The Clubs of Kingwood offer something for everyone! Join them and enjoy the many benefits and privileges of club life, as well as the lifelong friendships and fond memories you’ll create there. They have created a unique resort lifestyle that centers around quality family time, relaxation, enjoyment and business networking.
well both at home and internationally. The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass Stadium, an
architecturally
acclaimed
venue,
located east of downtown.
Photos Courtesy of the Houston Texans
Football is huge in Texas and the Texans are huge in Houston. In their 17th season, this NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016 and 2018 AFC South Division Champions. Head coach Bill O’Brien has put together an exciting roster that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, Deshaun Watson and plenty of new up-and-comers.
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.
have passed through the team’s roster over
ton’s Major League Soccer Team. The The Houston Texans www.houstontexans.com
GOLF
With something for everyone, their Club offers an array of first-class amenities and fun, including championship golf and pristine practice facilities. Members there enjoy rallying on the tennis courts, getting fit in the fitness center, swimming in the gorgeous pools and relaxing with indulgent spa treatments. In addition to all of this, they also have programs, lessons, leagues and teams across all sports, levels and ages. Tour 18 Golf Club www.tour18golf.com/humble Tour 18 Golf Club was founded in 1992 featuring replicated holes from 16 of America’s top rated country clubs who play host to annual PGA tour events or major golf CONTINUED PAGE 68 >
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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THE NEW KINGWOOD EXPERIENCE DISCOVER THE PRESTIGIOUS CLUBS OF KINGWOOD WITH AMENITIES AT THE PINNACLE OF REFINEMENT AND MILLIONS INVESTED TO ELEVATE THE CLUB EXPERIENCE. THE MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR REINVENTION FEATURES: • T he FIELD – Play a variety of your favorite games and activities like soccer, football and more, or even watch a movie under the stars on this multipurpose field • Sports Courts – Enjoy basketball, volleyball, bocce ball and especially pickleball • Poolside Bar and Grill – Relax and kick back with comfy places to lounge and talk, large screens for watching the game, fire pits, and favorite food and drinks • Golf Improvements – Elevate your golf experience with a new lighted driving range and ice shed, Golf Advantage School and junior golf programs The new Kingwood Fitness & Sports Center, with an upscale and modern design, offers the latest in equipment and technology. Energize your workouts with Power Plate, Matrix row machines, Free Motion high incline treadmill and Espresso interactive cycle bikes. For your mind and body, enjoy Specialty Yoga, Barre, Pilates Reformer & Mat Pilates and Body Flow. Interval training is also available including Matrix M4 classes, TRX Golf, PLYO Escape Training and Tabata High Intensity Bootcamps. The new indoor cycle studio offers group classes, themed rides, endurance rides and Wexer virtual classes. Along with ever ything that’s new, The Clubs of Kingwood continues to provide 90 holes of championship golf on five incredible courses, including the prominent Deerwood Course designed by golf legend Byron Nelson along with Joe Finger and Ken Dye. Recent improvements include a new golf experience on the Championship course, selected among the “Top 50 Golf Courses in Texas” by the Dallas Morning News, plus new men’s and women’s locker rooms, golf shops, personalized arrival experience and golf carts. In the summertime, families splash and play in the resort-style water park, with adult and family pools, a water slide, a splash pad and a laz y river. New cabanas, a poolside bar and additional activities make it the perfect place to relax with a
drink while the kids play. Tennis enthusiasts take part in a variety of programs for adults and juniors, pickleball and more at the tennis complex with 26 of the best hard courts in Houston. Indulge your culinary curiosity in the new upscale Deerwood Clubhouse. Relish chef-crafted creations with good friends in the new DW Grille & Bar or add a side of magnificent view to your meal on the Southern plantation-style outdoor veranda overlooking the 18-green and Lake Houston. After your round, explore bold flavors, watch the game on the big screens and socialize with friends over cocktails in the diverse atmosphere of the new Men’s Locker Room. The recently renovated Kingwood Clubhouse features a new member dining area and grand private event space with expansive windows showcasing golf course and water views. Membership is not a requirement for hosting events, and The Clubs of Kingwood offers the distinguished experience only a private club can provide for your special occasions in an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Beyond the Club, enjoy access to more than 300 private golf and country clubs, city clubs and stadium clubs. You can also participate in national events and tournaments, and enjoy discounts and benefits with renowned hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues and more. We invite you to become a part of the Kingwood legacy. Contact the membe r ship of f ice at 281- 3 5 8 -2171 o r visit theclubsofkingwood.com.
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
LEISURE & RECREATION
championships.
This collaboration of
incredible replicas offers players a memo-
bar atmosphere with a cold drink and dine
and swimming. Activities are available year
from an upscale grill menu.
round for the whole family!
Walden on Lake Houston
Members
rable experience of walking in the footsteps of some of the legends of the game.
www.waldencc.com Imagine yourself
also
enjoy
practice
facilities
including a full driving range, vast putting
playing on carefully
simulated holes that have determined the
Walden on Lake Houston Country Club,
green, and a chipping green with sand
outcome of tournaments like the U.S.
founded in 1984, features a Robert Von
bunker.
Open, Masters, PGA Championship, or
Hagge/Bruce
golf
facility, and Clubhouse provide an ideal
your favorite annual Tour event.
course.
The layout features 5 sets of
backdrop for golfers to congregate, the Club
Devlin
designed
playing tees and Champion Tifdrawrf
While the golf courses, practice
is really all about the Members.
Tour 18 Houston is open to the public
Bermuda Greens.
for daily fee golf, fundraising or corpo-
years the Club has received a facelift
rate
events.
It’s about fellowship, community, family,
as renovations to the Bunkers, Course
The club offers an 18-hole champion-
fun, good times, and of course the love of
Restrooms and Par 3 Tee Boxes have
ship golf course, a full service golf shop,
been completed.
tournaments
and
special
Over the last 5
the game. Golf and Social member events fill the calendar throughout the year and
great practice facilities, event space in the Legends Hall, and the Scoring Tent
Walden on Lake Houston Country Club
provide an array of formats for Members to
Bar&Grill where you can enjoy the sports
has golf, tennis, racquetball, fitness facilities
enjoy themselves. ď Ź
GOLF COURSES PUBLIC Brock Park Golf Course
281-458-1350
highmeadowranchgolf.com
Indian Shores Golf Course
281-324-2592
www.indianshoresgolf.com
Kingwood Cove Golf Club
281-358-1155
kingwoodcove.com / Kingwood
Links at West Fork
936-760-1776
westforkgolf.com / Conroe
Newport Golf Club
281-328-3576
newport-tx.com / Crosby
Oakhurst Golf Club
281-354-4653
oakhurstgolfclub.com / Porter
Red Wolf Run Golf Club
281-324-1841
www.redwolfgolf.com
River Terrace Golf Club
281-452-2183
Tour 18
281-540-1818
www.tour18golf.com/humble
Village Golf Club
936-228-0161
thevillagegc.com / Conroe
Wedgewood Golf Club
936-441-4653
wedgewoodgolfclub.com / Conroe
The Clubs of Kingwood Kingwood Country Club
281-358-2171
theclubsofkingwood.com
The Clubs of Kingwood Deerwood Club
281-360-1060
theclubsofkingwood.com
Golf Club of Houston
281-454-6590
golfclubofhouston.com
River Plantation Country Club
936-321-5833
www.riverplantationcc.com
Walden on Lake Houston
832-445-2105
waldencc.com
PRIVATE
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CALENDAR of EVENTS Houston & Surrounding Area events you will not want to miss
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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LEISURE & RECREATION
JANUARY Chevron Houston Marathon
nightlife featuring everything from Cajun
will compete in a traditional Texas
and salsa to jazz and rock and roll.
cook-off. While most team tents are
www.mardigrasgalveston.com
invitation-only, visitors can enjoy the public venues including the Miller Lite
Established in 1972, the Houston Marathon Committee, Inc. (HMC), a Running USA Founding Member,
FEBRUARY
annually organizes the nation’s premier
Texas Home & Garden Show
winter marathon, half-marathon and 5K.
Houston’s Premier “One Stop Shopping
Over 250,000 participants, volunteers and
Opportunity” for all your home &
spectators make this marathon largest
garden needs. From Windows and
single-day sporting event in the city.
Doors to Ceilings and Floors over 700
www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com
experts, products, services and ideas all under one roof. This event is one
Mlk Grande Parade
of Texas homeowners best resource for
Held in Midtown, this parade is devoted
advice, money saving tips, remodeling
to promoting racial harmony through
ideas and landscape features needed to
education and building awareness. The
make a home and garden.
MLK Grande Parade attracts more than
www.texashomeandgarden.com
300,000 spectators with 15 professionally designed floats, 30 marching bands, and over 150 performing groups. www.mlkgrandeparade.org Mardi Gras Galveston Island Don’t miss the revelry at Mardi Gras!
Annual Houston Brazilian Carnaval Celebrate Carnaval in true Brazilian style, straight from the streets of Rio, with live drummers, 2 DJ’s, and dancers covered in beads and feathers. This colorful Houston-based bash celebrates Carnaval in Houston, including the
Galveston! The island comes alive with
rhythms of Samba School Drums.
extravagant parades, more than 50 galas
www.houstonbraziliancarnaval.com
and festive events, bead throwing, exhibits, live entertainment in local clubs, and the best Gulf Coast cuisine in the world.
Garden, Rockin’ Bar-B-Que Saloon and the Chuck Wagon, where you receive a complimentary chopped beef sandwich plate. Come enjoy three days of cooking, competition, eating and dancing! www.rodeohouston.com Houston Livestock Show And Rodeo™ The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ was organized for charitable, educational and scientific purposes to encourage and promote the breeding, raising and marketing of better livestock and farm products at public fairs and to promote and maintain research and educational functions within the livestock industry. It is the general policy of the Show to utilize, in the fiscal year subsequent to which it is earned, the excess of its revenue over expenses for the furtherance of its exempt purpose, including the granting and/or funding of scholarships, educational endowments, agricultural research projects and other similar programs and the funding of related capital additions and improvements.
MARCH
One of the most popular annual events to
World’s Champion Bar-B-Que Cookoff
take place in Texas, the event is rich with
You won’t want to miss the biggest
laughter, celebration and people watching.
pre-party to the world’s largest live-
There is something for everyone including
stock show and rodeo. More than 250
a beachfront carnival, shopping, and
teams led by barbecue aficionados
www.rodeohouston.com
APRIL The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival It is among the top art festivals in the country, featuring over 200 international, national and regional fine artists displaying their original works in a wide variety of mediums at The Woodlands Waterway and in Town Green Park. The festival includes five entertainment stages, hands-on art activities and plenty of great food and beverages. www.woodlandsartsfestival.com Magnolia Historical Depot Day Live Entertainment and children’s activities, barbecue and other great food, a car show and Live and Silent Auctions. Depot Day serves as the Magnolia
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NORTHEAST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Historical Society’s annual fundraiser.
out to live music from a variety of
than a dozen artists from around the
Help support the Historic Depot building,
“island vibe” bands, and nosh at one
world will be featured.
the Pavilion, Dr. Ware’s Office and the
of the food trucks on the site. Free
www.jazzeducation.org
Replica of the first Magnolia Post Office.
parking, this is a 21+event only.
www.magnoliatxhistoricalsociety.com
www.ShowcaseKingwood.com
Bridgeland Nature Fest Bridgeland’s annual Nature Fest showcases this award-winning master-
Hunters Extravaganza Taking place at NRG Park, this is the place where hunters from across
JULY
Texas and beyond gather each year to get ready for hunting season.
planned community’s commitment to the
Freedom Over Texas
environment and ecosystem. Highlights
Located in the newly renovated
include food trucks, roaming entertainers,
Eleanor Tinsley Park on Buffalo Bayou,
clothing, rifles, knives, archery or
educational animal demos, unique crafts
Freedom Over Texas has become Hous-
any other hunting gear-hunters know
from artists and nature vendors, and a
ton’s signature annual Independence
they’ll find it at the Hunters Extrav-
kid’s zone with rides and activities.
Day celebration and attracts nationally
aganza. Plus, hunters enter great
www.bridgeland.com
recognized recording artists as well as
contests, see exciting attractions,
regional and local talent.
meet their favorite hunting and sports
www.freedomeovertexas.org
celebrities and more! www.ttha.com
MAY Beyond The Pints – Craft Beer And Music Festival Sample more than 40 local and national craft breweries while listening to live music. East from locally owned and operated food trucks. Family friendly, with a Kids Zone, retail vendors and entertainment for all. www.beyondthepints.com
JUNE Texas Music Festival Each year, the Texas Music Festival provides close to 100 young professional musicians with a challenging
Enjoy vendor booths, great food, children’s activities and entertainment on multiple stages. This event in The Woodlands culminates with one of the largest fireworks displays in the greater Houston area. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov
KidFish is a non-profit outreach program designed to educate and provide a hands-on fishing experience and memories for children and families. Limited poles and bait are provided, but partic-
And Fireworks
gear. Prizes and trophies will be awarded
Celebrate in Kingwood with live music,
following the final measure of the fish.
craft and food booths. Plenty of activ-
www.cityofconroe.org
ities for children – come out and enjoy the fireworks! www.kingwood.com www.towncenterevents.com
The Annual Houston World Series of
music, and solo performance. Lucky
Dog Shows by the American Kennel
participants range in age from junior
Club is one of the finest and largest
high to adult and specialize in a
indoor dog shows in the world that
variety of areas. Each institute is led
attracts more than 40,000 spectators, participants and vendors. houstondogshows.com
throughout the world. www.uh.edu Summer Showdown
Kidfish
ipants are welcome to bring their own
Houston World Series Of Dog Shows
and teachers from Houston and
SEPTEMBER
Kingwood July 4Th Festival
develop skills in orchestral, chamber
of Music faculty, expert performers
ment, hunting accessories, hunting
Red, Hot And Blue Festival
musical environment in which to
by Moores and Shepherd Schools
Whether its deer hunting equip-
AUGUST
Taste Of The World Houston Food And Wine Festival The Houston World Food & Wine Festival celebrates food, drink, music and dance from around the world. The festival has a globe-trotting theme that invites attendees to try out a new variety of food and arts and enjoy an international experience. It provides a feast for the senses and reflects the multicultural diversity of Houston. www.latinolearningcenter.org Texas Renaissance Festival Plantersville - Based on travel-worthiness,
Margarita Festival
Houston International Jazz Festival
chance to broaden horizons and the
Soak up the summer fun at the
The Houston International Jazz
ability to introduce people to try new
Summer Showdown Margarita Fest
Festival showcases Jazz, Rhythm and
things and connect with others, the Texas
hosted by Showcase Kingwood. Jam
Blues, Soul and Latin Fusion. More
Renaissance Festival has been voted the
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
71
best cultural festival in the country by
run, live music, a marketplace, local
things Houston, including a salute to
USA Today and 10Best. Enjoy magi-
artists, tasty food and much more.
the world-acclaimed Texas Medical
cians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours,
www.creekfesthouston.com
Center. The Fun begins at 9am when
comedians, food, arts and crafts that all celebrate life in the 16th Century. www.texrenfest.com
the downtown streets come alive with
NOVEMBER
The Texas Taco Tequila
Home For The Holidays
& Margarita Festival
The local shops and businesses come
Held in Conroe, Texas – come out and
alive with the Spirit of the Season,
enjoy over thirty different taco vendors.
offering a variety of local, unique
Enjoy live music reggaton, mariachi,
holiday gift ideas and treasures. Holi-
giochamba and more. There is a kid-zone
day-makers stroll the winding paths,
with family friendly activities as well as
enjoy the thousands of twinkling
VIP area. Plenty of artisan and boutique
lights, hot chocolate and other holiday
vendors, make a day of it and come out
lights and a visit with Santa.
and bring your family and friends!
www.oldtownspring.com
www.inspiredprod.com
OCTOBER Petfest – Old Town Spring PetFest is a weekend event dedicated to finding homes for animals in shelters and rescue groups. It’s a fun-filled festival of entertainment and education that raises money, volunteers and foster homes. Bring your pet! www.petfestoldtownspring.com
zesty marching bands, imaginative floats and colorful balloons. Bring the family. Annual Home For The Holidays In Old Town Spring Old Town Spring’s shops and restaurants come alive with spectacular displays of holiday lights, plus strolling performers, festive exhibits and family friendly activities. www.oldtownspring.com Annual Children’s Festival Fun takes center stage at The Cynthia
Houston Galleria -
Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s 20th Annual
Uptown Holiday Lighting
Children’s Festival. Entertainment spans
The annual holiday tradition flips the
from local community performances to
switch on a half-million twinkling
awarding-winning children’s performers,
lights along with music, holiday char-
meaning you are sure to enjoy the show!
acters, and a special appearance by
www.woodlandscenter.org
Santa. Fireworks grand finale. www.uptownhouston.com Nutcracker Market The Houston Ballet’s major fundraiser, the Nutcracker Market is a shopping
DECEMBER Jingle Bell Run Join Towne Lake for a family-friendly
Bridgeland Annual Howloween Fest
wonderland. This year’s market will
and festive Jingle Bell Run! The race
Watch the Canine Frisbee Disc Club,
feature more than 325 national and
will begin at 8:00 am and start at The
Splash Dogs and the popular doggie
international merchants carefully
New Boardwalk. Pre-race festivities
fashion show. Enjoy the many crowd-
selected for their unique offerings.
begin at 7:00 am and include a DJ,
and-canine approved activities. You and
Look for gourmet food, home décor,
Christmas music, bouncy houses, hot
your pet will have a dog-gone good time.
garden accessories, clothing, novelties
chocolate, face painting, and pictures
www.bridgeland.com
and the perfect gift.
with Santa. All racers will receive
www.houstonballet.org
jingle bells for their shoes and a red
Creekfest
long-sleeved t-shirt.
CreekFest is a one-day festival held in
H-E-B Holiday Parade
northwest Houston to celebrate the
The Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving
arts and outdoors in the Cypress Creek
Day Parade will welcome the
community. Highlights include a 5k fun
holiday season by celebrating all
JUNE: CARNIVAL HOUSTON www.carnivalhouston.com Carnival Weekend in Houston: This event celebrates the cultural diversity of the Caribbean and Central and South America with a masquerade ball, street parade and festival, and much more. Street Parade: Be there early, bring your chair, enjoy the street parade, music, masqueraders, floats, food, Carnival Rides for the kids.
www.townelaketexas.com
YOUR ULTIMATE
HOME AWAY FROM HOME AT THE CLUBS OF KINGWOOD
You and your family can tee it up on our 5 championship golf courses, work out in the brand new Kingwood Fitness & Sports complex, enjoy country club casual dining and social events, plus play tennis and pickleball throughout the year.
We are excited to announce that The Field, our new multipurpose play area, is now open and ready for soccer, football and your favorite games, movies under the stars and more!
Memberships available for golf, tennis and fitness.
Come for the experience, stay for the fun! LORI BECKNELL 214.212.6433 | lori.becknell@clubcorp.com
THECLUBSOFKINGWOOD.COM *Membership is contingent on successful completion of the Club’s enrollment process. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. See Club for details. © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved. 47140 0120 CA
HOMES FROM THE $200 S - $600 S TOLL BROTHERS G AT E D C O M M U N I T Y Opening in 2020
AT T H E G R O V E S , W E R E S I D E I N A C O M M U N I T Y O U T S I D E T H E O R D I N A R Y. We believe in comfortable living amongst the trees, fresh air and flowing creeks. We believe in creating new opportunities for outdoor play and exploration rooted in nature. We believe in constant innovation to make sure our residents have everything they need and some that they didn’t know they wanted. And we believe that once you come and see it, you won’t want to live in any other neighborhood.
Come discover our newest additions.
WOODLAND HILLS DRIVE + MADERA RUN PA R K WAY CONNECTION 5 minutes to Beltway 8 NEW INTERACTIVE PA R K S Discover your child’s imagination LIFESTYLE DIRECTOR Planning 75+ exciting events per year THE HEARTH AMENITY CENTER Open for relaxation GROVES E L E M E N TA R Y Shaping young minds WEST LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL S.T.E.A.M. campus
THeGROVEStx.COM