We’ve been dedicated to the care of Texas’ children since 1954. With Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands right in your community, we’ve got you covered, from specialties like radiology, renal and sports medicine to complex inpatient and emergency care. Our focus on kids means we’re able to treat more pediatric conditions than any other hospital in the region.
It’s our specialty.
Schedule online: texaschildrens.org
© 2019 Texas Children’s Hospital. All rights reserved. WLD_137833_19
contents | features 14
Shopping and Entertainment in Northwest Houston
22
SPOTLIGHT: Inner Loop Living in Houston
89
The Premier Wineries Near Houston
90
Northwest Houston’s Delicious Dining Scene
PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: GHCVB Houston The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau - Derrick Bryant Photography Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Towne Lake-Caldwell Communities Cypress Christian School Land Tejas Lone Star College UH Downtown Houston Dynamo Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Patrinely Group Eric Pohl Annette Evans Lennar Homes Klein ISD Beazer Homes Busy Bee Realty Tomball ISD
90
Salem Lutheran School
EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following
89
22
writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Joy Oden Cecile Adams
Š WEB Media Group LLC 2019 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.
A U S T I N R E L O C AT I O N G U I D E . C O M
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contents | sections WELCOME TO NORTHWEST HOUSTON • 10
16
HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 16 17 Cities & Neighborhoods 19 C ost of Living 22 Inner Loop Living
26
HOME FRONT • 26 28 Choosing A Realtor 30 Mortgage Options
EDUCATION IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON • 32 33 STAAR 34 Public Schools 40 Private Schools 45 Higher Education
32
ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 48 51 Senior Housing Options 52 Assisted Living Communities
RELOCATION INFORMATION • 54 56 Utilities and Services 57 Public Transportation 62 Places of Worship
70
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 64 66 Area Hospitals 66 Medical Moving Tips 68 Finding a Doctor
BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 70 72 North Houston Major Employers List 72 A rea Chambers of Commerce 74 H ouston by the Numbers
80
76 C ity of Conroe Top Employers
LEISURE + RECREATION • 78 80 Sports & Golf
Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com CEO Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Adams PROJECT MANAGER Jill Roe ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Paul Yarbrough Candi Thomas SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón Northwest Houston Newcomer Guide is published and distributed bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC. For advertising information, please call 713-952-1916. Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication. WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.
83 Parks & Attractions 86 Arts and Culture 89 Texas Wineries
4
300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752
90 Dining & Shopping
Phone: 512-266-2900
92 Calendar of Events
www.TexasRelocationGuides.com
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WELCOME FROM THE
WOODLANDS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Woodlands has one of the largest business communities in the north Houston area. Learn more about out business environment and friendly community, we welcome you! Greetings from The Chamber! The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing quality services, creating opportunities for business success and serving as an effective catalyst for the economic growth and prosperity of our community. Through the collective strength of over 2000 members and our staff, we are committed to legendary leadership, business advocacy, economic prosperity, partnerships, access to innovative resources and unprecedented service to our community. The Woodlands Area offers extraordinary amenities, top-rated public and private schools, higher education institutions close to home and an exploding medical corridor. We hope that you choose to be a part of the dynamic business community that The Woodlands Area has to offer. You will find that our community fosters business growth, embodies a welcoming attitude as well as a charitable spirit. We encourage you to join us in The Woods.
Sincerely,
JJ Hollie J.J. HOLLIE President and CEO The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce
9320 Lakeside Blvd The Woodlands, TX 77381 281-367-5777 info@woodlandschamber.org www.woodlandschamber.org
WELCOME FROM THE
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE The Northwest Houston area is full of excellent job opportunities with plenty of room for career growth. Come do business with us!
Dear Northwest Houston Newcomer,
8711 Highway 6 North Houston, TX 77095 (281) 373-1390 staff@cyfairchamber.com www.cyfairchamber.com
29201 Quinn Road., Suite B Tomball, TX 77375 (281) 351-7222 admin@tomballchamber.org www.tomballchamber.org
3920 Cypress Creek Pkwy. (FM 1960 West) Suite 120 Houston, TX 77068 (281) 440-4160 www.houstonnwchamber.com
On behalf of the three area Chambers of Commerce, and all of their members, it is an honor to welcome you to Houston’s Great Northwest. You may be assured that you will find exactly what you are looking for within the region. We are proud of our community, and we really do have it all. Outstanding retail centers, fine hotels and restaurants, and excellent recreational opportunities are close to home in Northwest Houston. Our highway and transportation infrastructure is ever-growing to meet the mobility needs of our residents and businesses. And of course, our trees, lakes, streams, and miles of greenbelt are there for your family to enjoy each and every day. Business development along Highway 290 and SH 249 Technology Corridor provide unlimited opportunities for emerging, growing or relocating businesses. Additionally, commercial and residential growth is tremendous. In all parts of our Northwest Area, new homes, re-sale homes, apartments, and townhouses continue to meet the demands of families relocating to our area. Educational options are a principle concern for our relocating families. Cypress-Fairbanks, Houston, Klein, Magnolia, Montgomery, Spring and Tomball Independent School Districts are among the very best in Texas. Additionally, there is an outstanding variety of private and parochial schools from which to choose. We welcome you to our area and would like the opportunity to serve you personally. Please do not hesitate to contact us or simply stop by our offices to see how we may be able to assist you in your relocation.
Sincerely,
Leslie Martone, President Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce
9320 Lakeside Blvd The Woodlands, TX 77381 281-367-5777 info@woodlandschamber.org www.woodlandschamber.org
6
Bruce Hillegeist, President Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce
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JJ Hollie
J.J. Hollie, President and CEO The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce
Barbara Thomason, President Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce
WELCOME FROM
MONTGOMERY COUNTY Find all you are looking for in Montgomery, from beautiful homes to a strong economic structure. Quality of life is key to the success of our fast-growing area.
Dear Friend and Neighbor: Welcome to Montgomery County, the 7th - fasting growing county in the nation and a thriving community that has become a great place to raise families and run a business or develop a career. From The Woodlands to Willis to historic Montgomery and the waters of a sprawling Lake Conroe, welcome to the place where the words “quality of life” have kept their meaning. As your County Judge, I preside over Commissioners’ Court and serve as the Chief Executive Officer for Montgomery County government. Having previously served as county commissioner of Precinct 2 since Aug. 2001, over that time I have learned that one of the keys to keeping our quality of life is our economic development program to attract new industries and corporations. That has enables us to broaden our county’s tax base and maintain an affordable cost of living for the residents of this community. As a 4th generation Montgomery County resident, a husband and a father of three, it is as important to me as it is to you to have a community where our children are challenged to learn, encouraged to seek their dreams and are supported with facilities and services that are conducive to a safe and nourishing environment. If all of us work together we can accomplish these goals. Once again, welcome to Montgomery County. Please feel free to contact me or my staff if you need assistance. Warm Regards,
Craig Doyal County Judge Montgomery County
501 North Thompson, Suite 401 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-7812 | 281-364-4200 Fax: 936-760-6919 cojudge@mctx.org www.mctx.org
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WELCOME TO
GREATER NORTHWEST HOUSTON Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in the Northwest Houston region and take advantage of what the community has to offer.
Welcome to Houston, Texas — one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, incredible cuisine, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation destinations. As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll no doubt notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.
HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax: 713- 961-4869
BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax: 281-486-7530
MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760
The Houston real estate market has been among the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle — for those buying or renting. The more than 39,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR.com) help make the American Dream come true for individuals and families every day. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization, and our members appreciate that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make. More than a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which actually showcases property listings for the entire state of Texas. Our site offers user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more. Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more. On behalf of HAR, it’s my distinct pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you take advantage of everything our incredible community has to offer. Sincerely,
Fax: 936-273-0344
FORT BEND 6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557
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Shannon Cobb Evans 2019 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS®/HAR.com
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In this section
Welcome Tourism & Culture City Summaries Houston by the Numbers
10
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to e m o c l We
NORTHWEST HOUSTON Thousands of newcomers relocate to Houston each year from all over the country and the world, today, it’s the fourth largest city in the U.S. As the city grows, so do its services and the Northwest Houston and Montgomery County area is home to world-class hospitals, leading- edge educational centers, and wonderful places to live.
Houston is the City with No Limits: the quality of life is wonderful; the culture is dynamic and the economy is stable. In the nine-county Houston metro area over 117,800 jobs were created from October 2017 through October 2018. Here, you’ll also find the most ethnically diverse population of any city in the U.S., and the vibrant arts and dining scenes reflect that. While it can get hot and humid in the summer, (that is when you’ll be enjoying that air-conditioning), the rest of the year is temperate and often sunny.
its excellent amenities, convenient businesses and retail centers, fine schools and leafy parkland, all within easy access to central Houston, it is easy to see why. The Northwest Houston area is more commonly identified by their great communities, such as Klein, Cypress, Tomball, Champions and Spring. The lush, rolling landscape of Northwest Houston as far out as the Montgomery County area, which becomes green with forest and trees lining the horizon as the community does all they can to maintain their natural landscape.
many other great communities.
Mont-
gomery County is economically strong, with companies such as ExxonMobil selecting this area to build their new headquarters. The ExxonMobil campus is 385-acres and is located in Spring, just west of where I-45 and the Hardy Toll Road meet. Already,
the
“ExxonMobil
effect”
is
becoming evident in new planned communities breaking ground throughout the Montgomery
County
area.
Established
communities such as The Woodlands Increasingly, the Northwest Houston area is a popular choice for new residents. With
The Montgomery County area is comprised of The Woodlands, Conroe, Willis and
continue to thrive and enhance their appeal to residents and visitors alike. The region
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WELCOME TO NORTHWEST HOUSTON
Photo Courtesy of Visit Houston
is enjoying a new focus on quality of life and transportation, with projects such as the exciting Spring Creek Greenway and the Grand Parkway, now open all the way from U.S. 59 South (aka the Southwest Freeway) to U.S. 59 North in the northeast Houston region. Montgomery County has always been a region on the move, from the days of stage- coaches to today’s super jets and express roadways. And it’s always looked to the future, from the railroad and sawmill pioneers of the 1800s, to the leading scientists at the Houston Advanced Research Center today. The Northwest Houston region has homes available that are suitable for anyone. From custom residences to townhomes, rental and resale homes, finding something to suit a budget and a preference is well within the realm of possibilities. People relocating can choose from the many golf course neighborhoods with luxury houses lining the fairways, or master-planned communities with wonderful amenities, to the outlying acreages offering pastoral living. Increasingly popular are the select neighborhoods built with the environment
12
Lake Conroe - Photo Courtesy of Annette Evans
in mind, where harmonious ecological balance and quality of life for residents are the goals. Whatever the housing dream may be, it can come true here. Your children can get an excellent education. Northwest Houston and Montgomery County area is served by multiple effective independent public school districts and a variety of private schools. Many of the schools are award-winning and, on their reputations alone, draw new residents to the area. The Houston area teems with options and opportunity. And Northwest Houston extending into Montgomery County, with its strong schools and excellent medical facilities, is an ideal choice for growing families.
RECREATION The rolling, treed terrain of Northwest Houston was a draw to the first inhabitants of the area, and still is today. There are many parks, green spaces and waterways where you can escape the city’s bustle and ground yourself in nature. Here, you can play a world-class golf course, paddle down a bubbling bayou, listen to the trill
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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of a cardinal, then enjoy an internationally famous dining experience. If you’re a hunter, fisherman or birder, you’ll find lots in the area to excite you. If you like to watch, you can take in your child’s baseball game or a major-league one at Minute Maid park, home to the World Champion Houston Astros. Most of the year, Houston’s mild climate means that you can enjoy the many outside attractions almost every day. Montgomery County plays an important role in the area’s quality of life today, providing recreational opportunities and beautiful backdrops for homes and communities. One of the area’s most exciting and ambitious projects is the Spring Creek Greenway, which preserves some of the pristine forests seen by the Akokisa Indians, who roamed the land more than 200 years ago. The Spring Creek Greenway conserves 12,000 acres of forest on both sides of the creek, making it the longest contiguous forested urban corridor in the nation. Several large anchor parks along the Spring Creek Greenway are ready to enjoy, including 55-acre Dennis Johnston Park,
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WELCOME TO NORTHWEST HOUSTON
Photo Courtesy of The Boardwalk - Caldwell Companies
Photo Courtesy of Houston Dynamo
featuring a popular loop trail, a fishing
with public art, cinemas, and
a Wi-Fi
schools, there are excellent musical and dance
pond, a butterfly and hummingbird garden,
enabled Central Park. Old Town Spring is a
performances all around the area. Symphony
and Big Stone Lodge, available for rental.
historic, turn-of-the-last-century collection
North performs throughout the year. The
The Greenway also connects many of the
of Victorian-era shops and restaurants. The
Cypress Creek Foundation for the Arts
area’s existing natural jewels, including
many and varied shopping experiences in
(FACE) stages concerts by inter- nationally
Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens
Houston mean that most anything can be
acclaimed performers, soloists, ensembles
and Jesse Jones Park. The area is home to
found right here.
and multicultural groups. The Cynthia
many large natural areas, such as 163,000-
Woods Mitchell Pavilion, one of the nation’s
acre Sam Houston National Forest and
When finished shopping, there’s still plenty
premier outdoor entertainment venues, pres-
1,722-acre W. G. Jones State Forest.
to do.
There are any number of events,
ents between 50 and 65 events every March
festivals, wine-tastings, barbeques, concerts,
through December, ranging from rock to
Lake Conroe, a 21,000-acre lake mean-
celebrations and parades to keep you
classical, jazz to county, and modern opera to
dering along 21 miles, is the reserve
intrigued and entertained. And the greater
contemporary American ballet.
drinking water supply for the City of
Houston area, the most diverse collection of
Houston and offers clean, clear water for
people in the country, has culinary treats for
The Pearl Fincher
recreation,
fishing,
every palate and pocket- book. Experience
Arts brings world-class art exhibitions to
hunting, hiking, golfing, swimming, water
the rich collection of food trucks, cafes, and
northwest Houston, and has exhibited
skiing and much more. Its shores are lined
restaurants that Houston and its northwest
everything from European masterworks
with prestigious communities and resorts.
corner have to offer.
to contemporary art glass. This museum,
SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Not only that, but area residents are handy
Bush Library, form the growing Cypress
to exciting horseracing at the Sam Houston
Creek Cultural District.
Indoors, patrons can find an amazing array
Race Park, water-sliding thrills at Wet
of items in the many quaint shops, small
‘n’ Wild SplashTown, the region’s largest
The area’s many museums, galleries and
retail centers, several large malls, or the
water amusement park, themed attractions
artistic displays are sure to impress and
major outlet mall in Cypress which offers
and entertainments that are part of
the
inspire. n addition, just down the road, are
merchandise from well-known designers.
Texas Renaissance Festival, and much,
the constantly changing, world-class offer-
Market Street in The Woodlands is an
much more.
ings of Houston’s cultural scene.
and one of the region’s finest shopping
CULTURE
TRANSPORTATION
and entertainment destinations. Market
Culture and the arts are celebrated in north-
Even though the city stretches over 627
Street has more than 75 national and
west Houston. Not only are there many
square miles, it’s easy to get around using the
specialty retailers and restaurants, along
dramatic
freeways, toll roads, HOV lanes and METRO
including
boating,
Museum
of
Fine
along with the Centrum and the Barbara
award-winning
14
mixed-use
town
center
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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presentations,
2020
companies
and
routes which have been recently extended adding greater mobility. Many businesses are located in outlying hubs, so you can choose to live close to work. For Northwest area residents, the Exxon Mobil campus, and the Energy Corridor are very handy. So too, is the George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Northwest Houston is intersected with a growing network of highways and transit options providing residents with convenient access to the Houston region and the world. The Grand Parkway, also known as State Highway 99, is Houston’s third loop and has opened all the way from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59 North, bisecting the region on a southwest-to-northeast axis, and making it possible to drive nonstop from Fort Bend County to Montgomery County. The Grand Parkway passes right by the newly opened ExxonMobil campus and many new developments in the area. Any of the Texas-based tags (the HCTRA EZTag, TxDOT TxTAG or NTTA TollTag) will work on the Grand Parkway and on the rest of the toll roads in Houston and across Texas. The new Tomball Tollway, Hardy Toll Road and I-45 North provide more critical transportation links for Houston’s northwest. Now in the final design phase, the Hardy
She has a sleek and contemporary exterior coupled with sophisticated and luxurious finishes that emphasize Hotel Alessandra’s beautiful simplicity interwoven with a sense of timelessness and sophistication. Located in the Greenstreet development of downtown Houston, our newest hotel transforms this urban area into a vibrant and well - rounded environment. Designer Lauren Rottet, Founder for Rottet Studio says “Alessandra transplants old world luxury to blend seamlessly with southern charm, sophistication, and a business savvy mindset:’ INDULGE ALL THE SENSES: • 223 elegantly appointed rooms and suites • Custom Valencia Bed with luxurious linens • Complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access in all guest rooms and public areas • 50 inch LED Televisions
DELIVERING THE EXPERIENCE: • Valencia VIP progam • Spa & swimming pool • Fitness center • Complimentary Maserati car service, within the downtown area, based on demand
Downtown Connector will extend the Hardy Toll Road from its current terminus at the 610 Loop all the way into downtown Houston, alleviating congestion at the Loop. When this connector is completed, the Hardy Toll Road will be an approximately 25-mile express route from downtown Houston to just south of The Woodlands. Improvements to I-45 between the Sam Houston Tollway and Downtown are also in the works and will be a great benefit for Northwest Houston residents who work in central Houston. METRO Park & Ride services and even water taxis in The Woodlands round out the area’s diverse mobility infrastructure.
1070 Dallas Street, Houston, Texas 77002 Reservation 844.204.5851 | Direct 713.242.8555
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15
In this section
Cities & Neighborhoods Master Planned Communities Cost of Living Inner Loop Living
Miramesa Amenities Photo Courtesy of Land Tejas
16
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS Home to lakes, forests, gently rolling hills, and all the conveniences, Northwest Houston and Montgomery County delight newcomers with historic small-town charm and leading-edge master-planned communities.
Northwest Houston and Montgomery County are a vibrant mosaic of old towns abuzz with renewed vitality and new communities. With its beautiful environment, highly regarded schools, convenient network of roadways and growing number of major employers such as ExxonMobil new residents from all over are making the area home. Newcomers will find a tremendous variety of homes and neighborhoods to choose from – including large-lot communities, lakefront and golf course developments, and master- planned communities of all sizes. Here are brief profiles of some of the most appealing neighborhoods and communities. More information is available at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
ALDINE
CHAMPIONS/ 1960
Situated just north of Beltway 8 and
Champions takes its name from the
handy to the George Bush Intercontinental
Champions Golf Club and its prestigious
Airport is Meadowview Farms, a Trailwood
golf course, which has been home to the
Community by Friendswood Development
Ryder Cup, the United States Open, The
Company. New, affordable homes, priced
TOUR Championship and others. Settled
from the $150s to $230s make this commu-
between Highway 249 and Interstate 45,
nity a great choice. School-aged children
the slightly rolling, leafy terrain features
are served by Aldine ISD.
Champion Forest, Olde Oaks and Northgate Forest, neighborhoods which offer
Another Trailwood Community, Mount
homes for empty nesters or large fami-
Royal Village, sits at Hwy 249 at West
lies; prices range from the $200,000 up
Mount Houston. Beautiful homes are priced
to several million. Area students attend
from the $140s to $210s. Situated in the
schools in the Klein and Cy-Fair Indepen-
heart of Houston, residents have easy access
dent School Districts. Shop- ping, dining
to work and play; students attend Aldine
and entertainment options are many and
ISD schools.
varied along FM 1960.
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HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Miramesa Community; Photo Courtesy of of Land Tejas
The Boardwalk - Photo Courtesy of Caldwell Companies
CONROE
plenty of entertainment. Part of the highly
The largest city and county seat of Montgomery County is named after lumberman Isaac Conroe, who founded a sawmill there in 1881. The new city was originally called Conroe’s Switch, since it sat at the junction of two railroads. Shortened to Conroe, the city prospered because of its thriving lumber and oil industries, and for one brief period it boasted more millionaires per capita than another other U.S. city.
regarded Conroe ISD, homes in the commu-
Today, Conroe is booming like never before, as Houston’s growth continues its northward march, and ExxonMobil’s new campus opens and fills up. The city is home to two craft beer breweries and a distillery, and it shows off its proud history at the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park. Conroe has 24 city parks and a lively historic downtown filled with two antique malls, two live performance theaters, art galleries, eateries and much more. Several new communities have recently opened in the Conroe area, including Grand Central Park. Located just 5 miles north of The Woodlands, Grand Central Park is a master-planned community that is growing quickly due to their proximity to the Montgomery County energy corridor. The community has any inviting amenities, such as a dog park, a lake house, trails and pathways, everything to ensure residents have
18
nity are within close proximity to schools at every grade level.
CYPRESS FAIRBANKS Encompassing Cypress and the city of Jersey Village, Cy-Fair is one of the largest communities
in
Northwest
Houston.
Cypress Creek meanders through neighborhoods like Copperfield, Steeplechase and Vintage Woods which offer single-family homes on tree-lined streets from the low $100s. Rental homes can be found in the area for monthly rates of around $1000 to
Bridgeland, a premier master-planned community, is made up of four distinct villages; each will offer residents easy access to parks and trails, playgrounds, pool complexes, schools, shopping, places of work and places of worship. Price points begin in the $220s and exceeds $1 million. Rock Creek is a touch of the hill country at the big city’s doorstep. It is an upscale development designed for quality living and featuring exciting amenities, like five connected lakes, streams and extensive jogging paths. The main lake is stocked with fish and ready for boats. Prices begin in the $400s.
$2000. Attractive new apartments with stateof-the-art amenities are available throughout the Cy-Fair area. Monthly rental
rates
range from $850 to $3500. The City of Jersey Village is a home-rule City, operating under a Council-Manager
Located around Houston’s largest private recreational lake, Towne Lake is at the heart of Cypress-Fairbanks. On the water, residents can water ski, sail or fish; beside the water, they can stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy a meal, or relax with neighbors.
form of government. Situated at the cross roads of US 290 and Highway 6, careful and
KLEIN AREA
deliberate planning has made this one of the
In between Houston and Tomball lies Klein, an unincorporated community which has thrived since the mid 1800s when German immigrants made it their home. You can still hear the influence of these early settlers in the street names like Kaiserhoff, Kuykendahl, and Wunderlich. In 1938, the Klein Independent School District was established and it is still
area’s premier communities. Featuring new homes by some of Houston’s finest builders, Cypress Creek Lakes is only 24-miles from downtown and is built around an outstanding complex of schools served by the award-winning Cypress Fairbanks independent School District.
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flourishing today, emphasizing community
by adding golf courses, tennis courts,
communities, especially those that can
and progress, and offering excellent educa-
country clubs and other upscale amenities.
accommodate horses.
Texas Historical Foundation was estab-
A manmade lake that opened in 1973, Lake Conroe is fairly built out in terms of
MONTGOMERY
lished to preserve the community’s heritage. Unincorporated designations often trans-
development along its shoreline, but its
late to lower taxes and fewer municipal
communities are still highly sought after
regulations, and housing options are many
for permanent and vacation homes. Public
and varied, with a range of traditional resi-
access and public boat launching is available
tion to students K-12. 1n 1988, the Klein One of the oldest towns in the state, Montgomery is the birthplace of the Lone Star flag of Texas. It began as a trading post in 1826, and while the city itself hasn’t grown much, the area is still popular with
dences, new developments and multi-family
newcomers.
from several parks, including Lake Conroe
housing complexes.
Park, Scott’s Ridge Swim Area and the vast This 22,000-acre lake is one of the natural
outside
Montgomery,
new and established communities, drawn
Sam Houston National Forest.
LAKE CONROE
Just
tens of thousands of homeowners reside in by the area’s natural beauty, proximity to commerce, and enduring small-town charm.
crown jewels of Montgomery County, along
MAGNOLIA
with its pristine national and state forests.
Adjacent to The Woodlands, Magnolia
One of the area’s newest and most innova-
The 157 miles of shoreline surrounding this
was settled in the late 1840s and today
tive communities is Woodforest, a 3,000-acre
scenic lake are ringed by some of the area’s
calls itself “the community of unity.” It
development that ranks among the top 20
most beautiful communities, including April
has been awarded Recognized Scenic City
communities in the U.S. for new-home sales.
Sound, Bentwater and Walden on Lake
Certification by Scenic Texas. Magnolia
Nestled in a heavily wooded environment
Conroe. Many of these communities have
retains its small-town charm even as it
between The Woodlands and Lake Conroe,
enhanced their gorgeous natural back- drop
becomes a popular location for large-lot
Woodforest has a 27-hole championship
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%
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HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Woodlands, Conroe and Houston, residents of Oak Ridge North can easily take advantage of the entertainment, shopping, colleges and universities, and other offerings in the surrounding cities.
SHENANDOAH Shenandoah is a small city of about 2,200 that connects The Woodlands to Conroe along I-45 North. The west side of the city is almost entirely residential while commercial and retail property is zoned to the east side of I-45. The Conroe Independent School District sports complex is there and hosts events year-round.
Miramesa Community; Photo Courtesy of of Land Tejas
golf course, parks, playgrounds, a splash park, and miles of hike-and-bike trails. Unique amenities include Forest Island, a 16-acre tennis and aquatics center, and Admiral Bark Park, named after the community’s first resident canine. Nestled beneath a canopy of oak trees, Lily Pad Park is an awesome water park for the entire family. Overall,
Woodforest
devotes
700
acres to recreation and natural open space. Homesites
include
golf
course
and
lake frontage, and are as large as one acre. Woodforest also includes a 90-acre retail and mixed-use area, so residents will be able to shop and work where they live and play.
OAK RIDGE NORTH Oak Ridge North is situated just north of Spring and south of Conroe along I-45, with The Woodlands and Shenandoah as close neighbors to the west. It is home to just over 3,000 residents who affectionately refer to it as “What a Hometown Should Be.” The community manages to maintain the hometown feel it was originally known for, with friendly, close-knit neighbors who can walk to schools and the two city parks. And because of
20
its proximity to The
One of the first new developments to open in years will give newcomers an opportunity to enjoy the laidback Shenandoah lifestyle. Planned for 92 homes by Pelican Builders, Boulevard Green is located on a 12-acre site at Vision Park Boulevard and Pine Forest Drive. Hallmarks of this gated community include distinctive architecture, low-maintenance living, elegant interiors and affordability – all in a convenient location only minutes from I-45 North and all of the attractions in The Woodlands.
SPRING About 55,000 people reside in Spring, which maintains its small-town appeal while welcoming newcomers to several growing master-planned communities. Spring is known throughout Houston for its quaint, vibrant Old Town Spring shopping and entertainment district, and the Spring Creek Greenway is enhancing the area’s already considerable natural appeal. Area schools are highly regarded, and major roadways including I-45 North, the Hardy Toll Road and Grand Parkway add to the area’s vitality. The new ExxonMobil campus is located right across I-45 from Spring, and this mega-development has had a huge and positive impact on growth in Spring. Harmony is a popular Spring community that embraces the 12,000-acre Spring Creek Greenway as its veritable back- yard. Situated just minutes from I-45 North and the Hardy Toll Road, this wooded 1,000-acre
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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community offers unique amenities such as Barefoot Park, where residents are encouraged to kick off their shoes and enjoy the outdoors. The park has a resort-style pool with a beach-entry lagoon, a splash pad, and a community pavilion with an outdoor fireplace. Coordinated by a dedicated lifestyle director, the community presents events all years, like Pumpkin Fest and Pictures with the Easter Bunny. Harmony is planned for 2,600 homes, with a variety of award-winning homebuilders and homesites ranging from 55 to 75 feet wide.
TOMBALL Once called Peck, Tomball was renamed in 1907 in honor of its local congressman, Thomas Henry Ball, who played a major role in the development of the Port of Houston. Today, Tomball is home to about 11,000 residents who appreciate its small- town atmosphere and proximity to The Woodlands and other fast-growing communities in the Montgomery County area. Bounded by State Highway 249 and FM 2978 - with FM 2920 as Main Street –Tomball is ideally located just 28 miles northwest of downtown Houston. With one of the highest elevations in the region, Tomball has fertile, forested land that drew farmers and ranchers in the early 19th century. Later, railroads and then oil and gas brought more prosperity to Tomball. Today, the area is home to thriving master-planned communities. Adjacent to The Woodlands, just off Huffsmith and Wiseman Roads, is Lakes Surrounded by wooded beauty and eight lakes, and just minutes from the Grand Parkway, The Woodlands and the new ExxonMobil campus, this master-planned community is wonderfully welcoming. Lakes of Creekside is comprised of just over 600 home sites, and has a tremendous array of amenities not usually offered in a close-knit community such as bike paths, splash pads, a pavilion and more. Lakes of Creekside is located within both the Tomball and Klein Independent School Districts. Willowcreek Ranch, a development of Caldwell Communities, is another popular Tomball community. This gated
community has a sparkling 50-acre lake as its centerpiece, with more amenities including an Equestrian Center, miles of hike and bike trails, and numerous parks and green spaces. Overlooking the main lake, The Lakehouse Lodge offers residents a place to play, entertain, work out, and enjoy life, unbridled.
WILLIS When the Willis brothers donated land to the Great Northern Railroad for a track from Houston to Chicago, a town was born. The railway and fertile land to grow watermelon, cotton and other cash crops, as well as trees for a thriving timber industry allowed the community to grow. Straddling I45 and north of Conroe, today Willis is the gateway to Lake Conroe and the home of a highly rated school district.
THE WOODLANDS Opened in 1974, The Woodlands has reigned for decades as one of the top-selling master- planned communities in the U.S., widely admired for its beautifully preserved
environment and quality amenities.
In
Waterway at the heart of the commercial
recent years, The Woodlands has come into
district. The 1.4-mile long waterway links
its own as a total community where people
office buildings, shops, restaurants and
live, work and play, with the flourishing of
plaza areas, with water taxis providing
The Woodlands Town Center, the Market
transportation between these areas and
Street shopping and entertainment district
more
and other key components. The Wood-
million square-foot The Woodlands Mall
lands has also become a major employment
and Market Street. The Cynthia Woods
center, and without doubt the community’s
Mitchell Pavilion, one of
success and quality of life drew the attention
popular outdoor amphitheaters
of Exxon- Mobil, which built its new campus
world, hosts national touring shows and
just south of the 28,000-acre community.
cultural performances.
destinations
including
the
1.3
the most in the
An exceptional
collection of larger-than-life sculptures Now home to nearly 100,000 residents,
and outdoor art installations adorns
The Woodlands offers amenities including
public spaces.
190 miles of hike and bike trails, 121 parks and seven golf courses. The Wood-
Three highly rated school districts – Conroe,
lands will ultimately include 8,000 acres
Magnolia and Tomball ISD – along with
of natural undeveloped land in parks and
acclaimed private and preparatory schools
nature preserves.
give residents access to excellent choices for education. The Woodlands is also home
The Woodlands lifestyle
is
centered
to Lone
Star
College-
Montgomery,
on the environment, the arts, technology
and two renowned healthcare campuses,
and
Memorial Hermann The Woodlands and
healthy
living.
The
Woodlands
Town Center features The Woodlands
St. Luke’s.
The Lipton Agency Get a quick, personalized insurance quote.
Larry Lipton
2611 Cypress Creek Pkwy. Suite D-100, Houston, TX 77068
281-580-2510
LarryLipton@Allstate.com
24-HR CUSTOMER SERVICE HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
21
SPOTLIGHT:
INNER LOOP g n i v i L
22
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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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.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
23
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 Housto-
publicly traded oil and gas exploration and
8,929-square-mile metro area is larger than
nians embody a boisterous spirit of growth
production companies.
the state of New Jersey – most of its growth takes place outside of the 610 Loop, the
and 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
Houston’s Texas Medical Center is the
innermost of the three highway rings around
largest in the
Houston. But inside 610, the living is good
world,
employing
more
than 106,000 people and welcoming 10 million patient visits each year. The Port of
and getting better.
Houston is the nation’s top seaport by many
WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT LIVING IN CENTRAL HOUSTON?
measures, and ranks as one of the busiest
Living in Central Houston means easy
ports in the world by cargo tonnage. NASA’s
access to Houston’s rich cultural scene. The
Houston’s status as the Energy Capital of
Johnson Space Center adds to Houston’s
Theatre District in Downtown Houston has
the World remains unrivaled. The city is
economic diversity, and the city has consular
the largest concentration of seats outside of
home to more than 3,700 energy related
offices from 92 countries.
New York. This 17-block district is home to
backgrounds, newcomers from around the nation and the world come to Houston in huge numbers.
nine performing arts organizations that wow audiences in venues including Jones Hall, the Hobby Center, the Wortham Theater
Considerations When Searching for a Home in Central Houston:
Center and the Alley Theater. Overall,
• 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.
Just southwest of downtown, in the pedes-
• 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.
radius of the iconic Mecom Fountain, are
• 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.
museums such as the Houston Center for
• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Houston has more than 500 arts organizations – most of them in Central Houston.
trian-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 such famous institutions as the Museum of Fine Arts-Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and more more specialized 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 Maid Park, built around the historic Union Station railroad depot. Also, downtown, the Rockets play basketball at Toyota Center, next to the incredibly popular Discovery 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 Dynamo soccer team. Reliant Stadium, home to the Houston Texans football team, is just inside the 610 Loop. Downtown Houston is fast transforming itself
into a 24/7 place where people
live, work and play. More than a dozen
At Westheimer and Kirby, West Ave is an
Central Houston residents
new residential towers are sprouting up all
example of several large mixed-use develop-
a growing number of options for getting
over downtown, and a host of new hotels
ments coming onboard in Central Houston.
around without cars. A decade ago, Hous-
opened in time to welcome fans to Houston
West Ave has shopping and dining on its
ton’s first light rail line opened along Main
for Superbowl LI. The largest of these, the
lower floors, including big draws like Toot-
Street, taking riders through Down- town,
1,000-room Marriott Marquis, is one of
sies for fashion, and restaurants including
Midtown, the Museum District, the Medical
many new towers ringing Discovery Green
Pondi- cherry and Eddie V’s. On top of it all
Center and to NRG Stadium. Known as the
and it features a Texas-shaped lazy river.
are 400 apartments.
Red Line, this popular rail line also created a
For Downtown entertainment, Green Street
Another new mixed-use complex, the River
Houston is home to the House of Blues,
especially in Midtown, which has boomed
Oaks District, has opened on the site of
with new midrise residential buildings,
a former car lot on Westheimer, between
townhomes eateries and arts centers.
the Lucky Strike bowling alley, a growing array of stores and restaurants, and new luxury hotel Hotel Alessandra. Bayou Place,
are
enjoying
catalyst for new development along the way,
The Galleria and Highland Village. The vision is to offer an urban experience with
Bike trails are an increasingly popular way to
high-end retail, street-side cafes, office space,
get around in Houston. The frequently used
a cinema and 279 residential units. Just
Heights trail opened a few years ago, and a
inside the Beltway at I-10 West, City Centre
new Downtown connection links it to East
is another growing concentration of retail,
End trails. The trail has also been expanded
It‘s well known that Houstonians eat out
office, residential and entertainment with a
to the west, connecting it to Timbergrove
more than residents of any other city,
walkable urban feel.
and other hot neighborhoods along White
Houston’s original downtown entertainment complex - offers movies at Sundance Cinemas, concerts at Bayou Music Center, and a variety of restaurants.
and with 11,000 eateries to choose from, who could blame them? Central Houston
Oak Bayou. As Central Houston continues to improve, Houston
Houston has plenty of parks off the bayous.
has more than 40 colleges, universities and
Hermann Park, between Downtown and
other institutions of higher learning. Rice
the Medical Center is home to the Houston
University is consistently hailed as one of
Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theater and Japa-
belly in Montrose. In a city where more
the nation’s finest, and the University of
nese Gardens, which recently
than 90 languages are spoken, great ethnic
Houston has earned Tier One status, placing
its 100th birthday with new public art and
food is everywhere, from the many Viet-
it in
the same league as the University
the McGovern Centennial Gardens. A new
namese restaurants along Milam Street in
of Texas and Texas A&M University for
master plan is also underway to renovate
Midtown, to the original Ninfa’s Mexican
advanced research.
and improve Memorial Park.
is home to many of the nation’s most acclaimed
new
restaurants,
including
Oxheart in the Warehouse District, Reef in Midtown, and Hugo’s, Uchi and Under-
so does its offering of schools.
celebrated
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 Village has everything from Pottery Barn to Williams-Sonoma.
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25
In this section Home Ownership Choosing a Realtor Rent or Buy Mortgage Options Credit Reports
26
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
The
HOME FRONT The rapid growth of the Northwest Houston and Montgomery County area means newcomers can find everything they need for a smooth move – from abundant temporary housing choices, to skilled Realtors and custom builders who are eager to help.
TEMPORARY LODGING
Consider the location and style of housing
RENT OR BUY?
Sometimes, newcomers need temporary
that would best suit you during your tempo-
There can be advantages to both renting or
housing while they continue their home
rary stay. Is proximity to work the top
buying a new home, depending on one’s imme-
search, or while they wait for their new home
consideration during this hectic period? Or
diate priorities and long-term goals. According
to be built or renovated. Like most big cities,
it might be most important to stay near an
to Freddie Mac, renting can make more sense if
Houston has many options for temporary
airport if you’ll be doing a lot of traveling
you have a career or life- style that requires you
housing, but perhaps it’s even
during the transition. Would you be most
to move frequently, if one prefers a set monthly
comfortable in a hotel or apartment, or
budget and cannot afford unforeseen main-
would you prefer a single-family
tenance expenses, or if they don’t have the
because
companies
are
truer here,
experienced
at
serving the historically heavy influxes of newcomers who work in Houston’s thriving energy, medical and aerospace sectors.
time or desire for home maintenance.
HOME OR TOWNHOME? Good sources for locating temporary housing
More reasons to rent: if the thought of having amenities such as a pool, gym, concierge and
Many multifamily complexes have corpo-
include your company’s human resources
rate programs with fully furnished
tennis courts sound enjoyable; if the plan is
department, your Realtor and/or builder, and
to downsize living space or retire soon; and if
the Internet.
one is experiencing a financial setback and/
units
and short-term leases available. Hotels are another option, including the growing
or rebuilding their credit. Freddie Mac says
number of extended-stay hotels in the area.
Bottom line: the rapid growth of Northwest
When staying in a hotel for 30 days or
Houston and Montgomery County means
income, good credit and documentation for
longer, Texas law allows for an exemption of
that newcomers will find plenty of temporary
their assets; if they can afford at least a 5%
the 6% state hotel tax; see the hotel manage-
housing options throughout the area – from
down payment and closing costs; and if they
ment for information on how to apply for
extended-stay hotels and corporate lodging,
are financially able to take on home mainte-
this exemption.
to single-family homes and condos for rent.
nance and improvements.
buying may be best if someone has reliable
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
27
Choosing a Realtor
It may also be better to buy if you want to
The right realtor can save you thousands.
breaks and credits; if you have an adequate
build equity and qualify for homeowner tax cash reserve to withstand loss of employment
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.
or another financial setback; and if you plan on staying in your home at least four years.
NEW HOME VS. EXISTING HOME Advantages of buying a new home include “new” everything – from carpets to appliances. Energy efficiency is another big consideration. New homes can include the
How do you choose the right realtor?
First, understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® cannot discriminate against someone based on race, religion, gender, handicap, family status or national origin. Talk to a number of realtors before making your decision, talk to some of their previous clients and review their current and recent listings. You might want to ask the following:
latest high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, along with advanced insulation and window products that weren’t available 10 or 20 years ago. A new home will require less maintenance in the short term, and new homes are wired and capable of accommodating the latest technologies. There are also advantages to buying an existing home, especially in Northwest Houston and Montgomery County, which
• How long have you worked in real estate?
• Is real estate your full-time job?
• Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers?
old. Existing homes might be less expen-
• Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood?
sive, have established landscaping, or other
• What is the average price of properties that you close?
• How many closings do you have each year?
traditional floor plans.
• Do you work on a team?
Used homes may also have a track record of
• D o you have any designations, cer tifications, awards or special training?
offers plenty of resale homes ranging from historic farmhouses to homes just a few years
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. 28
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
“extra” features, such as window coverings, that may not be included in new homes, and
appreciation over the years, although Realtor. com cautions that past performance does not guarantee future market appeal.
CUSTOM HOME BUILDING One of the great things about Northwest Houston or the Montgomery County area is the diversity of communities and homesites to choose from for building the custom home of your dreams. The
choices are almost
endless. Anyone can find an acreage homesite in a community that still feels rural and pastoral, or they can tap into the increasingly urban vibe of places like The Woodlands Town Center and build a townhome that might look a home in New Orleans or Charleston. Homesite can be found with
views of the area’s many golf courses, lakes
get a mortgage with only 3 percent down
considerations for unique circumstances in
and parks. And almost everywhere, home
payment and a minimum FICO credit score
The Northwest Houston and Montgomery
buyers will find the beautiful trees the area is
of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are
County markets.
known for.
also offered by various government agencies. Some groups, including teachers, police offi-
Also in Northwest Houston and Mont-
cers and firefighters, may also qualify for
gomery County, relocation candidates will
special assistance programs.
find a wide selection of homebuilders and
OBTAINING A HOME MORTGAGE More good news comes in the form of relaxed
Realtors who are extremely knowledgeable
The following pages cover the basics of
lending standards that could benefit first-time
and experienced in building custom homes in
financing a home, along with some special
buyers. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the
the region. The benefits of building a custom home are getting exactly is what is wanted – from the location of the lot, to the design of the
Call (281) 376-9900
exterior style and interior floor plan. Many buyers have extended
multi-generational
families or adult children living at home, and garage apartments and ground floor “casitas” (small houses) are popular options for accommodating these family members. Inside, too, a custom home allows for a personalization of every aspect of every room – from countertops and flooring, to paint colors and lighting and plumbing fixtures. And if there is desire to create a special place to incorporate an architectural element that’s a family treasure or recent discovery, that’s very easy to do when building custom.
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 home- ownership. Despite a flattening economy, Houston home sales stayed stable in 2018 and even gained momentum toward the end of the year, ultimately closing more than 82,000 home sales over the year – which was up 20 percent from the prior year.
Are you moving to Houston? Over 90 top agents ready to help you find your next home!
OUR SERVICES: RESIDENTIAL SALES, PURCHASES, AND LEASING RELOCATION PROPERT MANAGEMENT COMMERCIAL Each office is independently owned and operated.
More good news comes in the form of relaxed lending standards that could benefit first-time home buyers. A few years ago,
FOR MORE INFO CONTACT US: (800) 621-7253 | (281) 376-9900
10130 Louetta Road Suite J Houston, TX 77070
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
Outstanding agents, outstanding results!
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON HOME FRONT
“
The Alternative Mortgage Instrument (AMI)
The Greater Houston Builders Association works to ‘provide advocacy, education and meaningful services to benefit its members and the housing industry.’
is a loan in which at least one of the four components varies. The most common AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins low and periodically
”
adjusts either up or down
within
limits
based on a pre-specified
index.
The
initial
low
rate, and therefore, the lower
monthly payment, enables the buyer to meet the income and debt-ratio requirement.
two federally chartered mortgage corpora-
ratio of median household income required
tions, recently relaxed lending guidelines that
to buy a median-priced home, using a 30-year
DOWN PAYMENT
were tightened after the national housing
mort- gage with a 20 percent down payment
The down payment is the cash committed
crisis that began in 2008. Now, some buyers
as its model. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that
toward the purchase of a home. For most
can get a mortgage with only 3 percent down
the median
just
loans, a down payment of 20 percent of the
payment and a minimum FICO credit score
enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the
of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are
purchase price is required to avoid paying
median-priced home. The Northern region
also offered by various government agen-
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), although
of Houston’s most recent THAI was an
cies. Some groups, including teachers, police
it is possible to take out a secondary loan to
impressive 1.96, which makes the area more
officers and firefighters, may also qualify for
avoid PMI.
affordable than the overall Houston region,
special assistance programs.
state and nation based on THAI averages.
HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?
MORTGAGE OPTIONS
Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to home ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that Houston area residents spend typically 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, insur-
household
income
is
INTEREST RATES Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year
Several different types of mortgages are
fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different
common today. A standard 30-year fixed
from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate
rate mortgage is the most common way
mortgages reset according to the terms of
to
the lender.
finance
a
home;
15-year fixed rate
mortgages are another option. The 40-year mortgage has become more popular in some
CLOSING COSTS
parts of the country where home prices are
Between 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price
rising fast, but many experts agree that the
of a home, closing costs include related fees
tradeoff of a slightly lower monthly payment
such as costs for running credit reports, loan
for much more interest paid over the life of
origination, appraisal, survey, title insurance,
the loan does not make economic sense.
and discount points paid to lower the interest rate. Closing costs are typically paid by the
For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the
buyer at the time of closing.
mortgage, payment, the interest rate and the
ance, credit card balances, utilities, food
term of the loan are fixed and fully self-amor-
CREDIT REPORT
and health care as well as any payments on
tizing, which means at the end of the term,
Lenders will require a credit report from
outstanding loans and leases are expenses,
the principal has been repaid.
the credit bureau that has collected your
while household income includes salary and other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of townhomes, condos and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be
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
credit history for the past seven to 10 years. Credit reports document your financial history and reflect the amount of credit you have, the timeliness with which you pay your bills, if you have declared bank-
considered in the overall expenses.
the interest determines the monthly house
Developed by the Real Estate Center at
ance is added to the payments according to
Texas A&M University, the Texas Housing
the terms of the lender, and the amounts are
Traditional mortgage lenders require an
Affordability Index (THAI) measures the
recalculated annually.
established credit history, but some lenders
30
payment. Escrow money for taxes and insur-
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
|
2020
ruptcy and other factors that give the lender a financial snapshot.
may offer more flexible mortgage programs
rates. Historically, credit unions have been
that may be needed. In the Houston and
for people with limited or no established
employer-based financial institutions but
Montgomery County areas, flood insurance
credit record.
today it is common for credit unions to be
is required or recommended by mortgage
community-based, meaning that anyone can
companies in some neighborhoods. Check
use a credit union as their primary financial
with your builder, Realtor or lender to deter-
institution. Members are insured for up to
mine the status of your property. Visit www.
$250,000 per account by the National Credit
tdi.texas.gov for more information.
outstanding debt, length of credit history,
Union
new credit and the sources of credit in use. In
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS
tion about credit unions is available from the
addition to informing lenders of credit-wor-
A variety of programs are designed to help
Texas Credit Union League and the Credit
thiness, your credit score can also determine
first-time buyers, including FHA loans with
Union National Association.
a 3 percent down payment discussed at the
Credit reports also carry your credit score, a numeric ranking between 300 and 850 that many lenders use. It is calculated using five factors: payment history, amount of
Administration.
More informa-
the interest rate you pay. The better the credit
beginning of this article.
score, the lower the interest rate. More infor-
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE
mation on credit scoring is at myfico.com.
Homeowner insurance is required by mort-
Montgomery County, Harris County and
gage lenders, and is essential even if a home
other governmental entities also offer home-
is paid for. Buyers are typically asked to
buyer assistance programs that can provide
pay one year of insurance at closing, with
down
premiums included in monthly mortgage
financing for buyers who meet certain house-
payments. Selecting an insurance company
hold income and purchase price criteria.
and deter- mining coverage is the respon-
Other programs include Southeast Texas
sibility of the buyer, and should begin as
Housing Finance - www.sethfc.com, and
soon as the contract to purchase a house is
the Harris County Downpayment Assis-
accepted by the seller.
tance Program – csd.harriscountytx.gov.
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
payment
assistance
and
special
Information is also available from the Texas
hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a
The Texas Board of Insurance is a valuable
Department of Housing & Community
prospective buyer might qualify for.
source of information. Many companies
Affairs - www.tdhca.state.tx.us. Realtors,
offer discounts when home insurance is
mortgage lenders and builders are also good
combined with auto coverage, life insurance,
sources of information about available home-
health insurance and other types of insurance
buyer assistance programs.
TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. For more information, visit irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.
BANKS Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competitive rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services, different
accounts,
minimum
balance
requirements, ATM charges, availability of funds policy, direct deposit and other options. Contact the Texas Department of Banking at www.dob.texas.gov.
CREDIT UNIONS Credit unions are a good source to check for mortgage loans because they may offer lower
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
31
Photo Courtesy of Cypress Christian School
In this section STAAR public schools private schools higher education
32
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
EDUCATION IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON Home to some of the largest and most highly rated public school districts in Texas and the U.S., Northwest Houston and Montgomery County offer its residents an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities. Higher education is another strength.
Along with beautiful lakes, forests and a
grades 3-8; writing at grades 4 and 7; science
STEM occupation paid about $80,000 annu-
thriving economy, Montgomery County
at grades 5 and 8; social studies at grade 8;
ally; roughly 1.7 times the average yearly
offers excellent educational opportuni-
and end-of-course assessments for English
U.S. wage.
ties. There is a variety of highly regarded
1, English 11, Algebra 1, biology, and U.S.
public school districts, ranging from small-
history.
The Texas science, technology, neering
town gems to some of the largest in the
and
mathematics
engi-
(T-STEM)
Houston area. The region also has a wide
For more information and
complete
initiative provides a foundational approach
range of private and parochial
schools,
district and individual school information,
to empower teachers, inspire students and
along with a growing list of opportunities
visit the Texas Education Association at
advance STEM education. There are 70
for higher Education.
www.tea.texas.gov
T-STEM Academies and seven blended Early College High School/T-STEM Acad-
STUDENT ASSESSMENT TESTING: STAAR The
State
of
Texas
Assessments
STEM EDUCATION
emies serving more than 40,000 students
STEM, an acronym for science, technology,
across the state.
of
engineering and math education, is an interdis-
Academic Readiness (STAAR) measures
ciplinary and applied approach that is coupled
TEXAS CHARTER SCHOOLS
a child’s performance, as well as academic
with hands-on, problem-based learning.
Charter schools were authorized by the Texas Legislature in 1995 to provide an
growth, college and career readiness. Results from STAAR calculate annual school and
According to a recent poll of U.S. CEOs,
alternative to traditional public schools.
district performance ratings. Annual Assess-
employers will need 1.6 million new STEM
Open-enrollment charter schools are public
ments cover: reading and mathematics,
employees by the end of 2019. The average
schools that have the flexibility to adapt to
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
33
NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION
the educational needs of individual students. Charter schools provide a personalized learning environment that promotes greater student achievement. In the State of Texas, charter schools operate under and receive academic accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency. All charter students in Texas take the same STAAR test as traditional public school students. Charter schools receive state funds based on the average daily attendance of students (same as traditional public schools); however, they do not receive funds from local tax revenue. Photo Courtesy of Cypress Christian School
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Conroe ISD www.conroeisd.net • 936-709-7752 Conroe ISD is a 348-square mile school district that is geographically diverse and includes The Woodlands, Shenandoah, Oak Ridge North, Conroe, and Caney Creek, as
well as several other smaller towns, communities, and unincorporated areas. As the 11th largest district in Texas and the 65st largest in the U.S., Conroe ISD serves over 63,000 students across 63 campuses and is one of the fastest growing districts in the State.
Conroe ISD is a community of individuals working together to achieve the best for students. The District is proud of the accomplishments of students, teachers and administrators who have helped make Conroe ISD a great school
WE’RE ALL ABOUT ALL STUDENTS. From academics and hands-on learning experiences to renowned athletic programs, every child in CFISD is empowered to expand their horizons, encouraged to explore new interests, and provided a wealth of opportunities FULL COLOR to CONDENSED - CMYK helpSTACKED themWIDEmaximize their true potential. Learn more at CFISDspirit.com. OPPORTUNITY
FOR ALL CFISD-074 NW Newcomers Guide Half Page Ad 7.875x4.75_MECH.indd 1
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
5/21/19 3:26 PM
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2020
district. Achievement scores continue to increase and are well above the State and national averages. Cypress-Fairbanks ISD www.cfisd.net • 281-897-4000 Twenty miles northwest of downtown Houston, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is one of the fastest-growing school districts in the nation, with a student enrollment of over 117,000. It is the second-largest district in the Houston area, the thirdlargest in the state, and is the only district in the state to rank among the top 3 by the ERG (Education Resource Group) as the most effective and efficient district in Texas for each of the last six years. Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is a destination district for its college/career preparation, extracurricular prowess and award-winning programs. With a diverse student population (students speak more than 100 languages or dialects), it is proof of the visionary work of educators, businesses, organizations and taxpayers who believe in making life better for the next generation: Cypress-Fairbanks ISD offers an unparalleled universal public education experience for all children.
The district has at least 27,000 full-time employees, educates more than 209,000 students in 280 schools spread out over 334 square miles. Houston Independent School District’s property tax rate is the lowest in Harris County and the second lowest among the state’s 12 largest school districts, but 96% of rated Houston Independent School District schools met state student progress standards, and Houston Independent School District has reduced students’ drop-out rate by 43% in the last 8 years.
Klein Independent School District
Houston Independent School District stands out as a district of choice with a robust portfolio of schools, including strong neighborhood campuses, magnet and vanguard schools, charter schools, fine arts and language programs, early college high schools and career academies, and other specialized programs. The district has placed an emphasis on ensuring all students have access to a global education and are prepared to compete and be successful in a global society upon graduation.
The first strategic priority is Reimagine
www.kleinisd.net • 832-249-4000 At Klein Independent School District (Klein ISD), every student enters with a promise and exits with a purpose. Klein ISD achieves this vision by centering on the
following five targets: pathways,
challenge, equity, leadership, and continuous improvement. As Promise2Purpose investors, district staff focus resources and relationships on three strategic priorities.
Learning. This priority is defined as personalized learning, a flexible and challenging curriculum, as well as standardized evaluation. Cultivate Talent is our second priority and is achieved through a best-inclass leadership pipeline, feedback loops and self-reflection, as well as targeted professional
learning.
The
final
stra-
tegic priority is Build Community. They achieve this via relationships, mentoring and partnerships, engaging, educating and
A fiscal leader in Texas, the district is one of only three to earn a five-star rating from Texas Smart Schools for all nine years of the program. The professionals at Cypress-Fairbanks ISD work to maximize every student’s potential through rigorous and relevant learning experiences preparing students to be 21st Century global leaders. The Cypress-Fairbanks ISD vision is LEAD: Learn. Empower. Achieve. Dream. Houston Independent School District www.houstonisd.org • 713-556-6000 The Houston Independent School District is the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh largest in the United States. Houston Independent School District is focused on providing safe, secure schools where students can excel and prepare for college and careers.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION
Photo Courtesy of Tomball ISD
equipping families, and through cultural
programs, active volunteer programs, and
responsiveness.
emphasis on student safety.
Ensuring that every student has a clear
Magnolia ISD
pathway to success allows the district to
www.magnoliaisd.org • 281-356-3571
personalize learning and ensure that all graduates have a bright future ahead of
Located 45 miles north of Houston and to
them. Before graduation, Klein ISD prom-
the west of The Woodlands, the Magnolia
ises students the opportunity to explore and
Independent School District provides an
experience various pathways that include
outstanding learning environment offering
not only successful mastery of a guaranteed
innovative programs, modern facilities and
and viable curriculum, but also coursework
exceptional teachers.
and experiences that appeal to students’ unique talents, interests, and abilities.
The district serves approximately 13,200 students and provides a well-balanced
Klein ISD is comprised of six high schools,
curriculum to meet the needs of all
10 intermediate schools, 32 elementary
students
schools, one early childhood/ pre-kinder-
dual credit programs, Career and Technical
garten school, one high school of choice,
Education career paths and certifications,
and two specialized campuses. High school
Early Child- hood, and full-day Kinder-
students may also choose to attend the
garten. Magnolia ISD is the only public
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
school district in Montgomery County
Programme or the International Business
to offer the International Baccalaureate
Academy (IBA) housed on two of the high
Diploma Programme. This prestigious,
school campuses.
challenging academic program prepares
offering
advanced
academics,
junior and senior students for the rigor Considered a fast-growth district, each year
of college course work and is recognized
hundreds of new families choose to live in
by elite universities around the world
Klein because they appreciate its excep-
as an excellent preparatory curriculum.
tional staff, excellent facilities, outstanding
One of
academics, exceptional sports and fine arts
the state among comparable size districts,
36
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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the fastest growing districts
2020
in
Magnolia’s campuses include eight elementary schools, two intermediate schools, two 7th and 8th grade junior high schools, two comprehensive high schools and one alternative high school. This growth has been met with excellent facilitates and increased community support. Students in the district are recognized for national and state accolades in academics, athletics, agriculture, health science, career and technology, fine arts programs, and the Navy Junior ROTC. District honors include National Merit Scholars and above average SAT and ACT scores. The mission of Magnolia ISD is to provide an educational environment that will enable all students to develop essential academic skills for a lifetime of learning and to be responsible, contributing citizens in a diverse and changing world. Montgomery ISD www.misd.org • 936-582-1333 Montgomery ISD educates over 8,997 students who live within the 231 squaremile boundary. The district instructional
employs an outstanding staff of 617 certified
teachers. Of these educators, 61 percent of teachers also have more than 10 years of teaching experience and 142 teachers hold advanced degrees Montgomery ISD class sizes are small and average about 14.9 students for each teacher, which enables them to give their students individualized attention and in-depth instruction. Montgomery ISD maintains an environment rich in opportunities for their students to engage in and develop their passions. In addition, Montgomery High School was named one of Newsweek’s “Best High Schools in America”. With an unyielding commitment to excellence, Montgomery ISD seeks to provide a premier academic program that recognizes the unique potential of each student and integrate the intellectual, social, cultural and physical aspects of learning. Staff and educators work to empower each student to become an eager lifelong learner committed to academic excellence, integrity, responsible citizenship and service to others.
The district tracks its students’ progress through the Texas Academic Performance Reports (TAPR). Details about the district’s involvement in these programs can be found on the Texas Education Agency’s School Performance page, www.tea.state.tx.us. Spring ISD www.springisd.org • 281 891-6000 Spring ISD is focused on its students and grounded in its community partnerships. It serves over 35,000 pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade students in a diverse district located 20-miles north of central Houston. Its vision states: Spring Independent School District will be a district of choice known for high-quality academics with innovative and specialized programs that meet the needs of all students in a positive learning environment. Guided by its strategic plan, Every Child 2020, the district supports the growth and development of all students.
Every learner can succeed in Spring, with academic acceleration and enrichment available for the gifted and talented, while special education services are provided for those with disabilities. Bilingual instruction and English as a Second Language programs are also offered. A renewed focus on literacy for all and an expansion of
early childhood programs are
both part of the district’s commitment to prepare graduates who are college and career ready. In addition, student athletes from the district have made their mark at all levels of their chosen sports. Meanwhile, through district art, dance, music, theater, and speech programs, Spring ISD students have been recognized regionally and nationally for achievement in the arts. The district’s 38 campuses include 18 schools built within the last decade, as well as numerous renovated ones, ensuring that students have secure, modern facilities in which to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens – ready
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION
to contribute, compete, and lead in today’s global society.
the future, Tomball ISD offers high-quality academic learning to ensure students are college and workforce ready.
academics and finances while still fostering
Educating over 18,000 students at 20 campuses that spans across 83 square miles in northwest Harris County and southwest Montgomery County, Tomball ISD is considered a fast-growth district that has maintained a standard of excellence in
Tomball ISD offers Year-Round Limited
a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Tomball ISD www.tomballisd.net • 281-357-3100 Tomball ISD is an ‘A’ district that embodies a reputation of
excellence, all while
holding true to its small-town feel. With a vision that students will lead in creating
Open Enrollment, enabling families living outside the district boundaries, a chance to attend a Tomball ISD school free of charge. Along with offering rigorous college, career and military readiness curriculum that is responsive to the needs of individual learners, Tomball ISD boasts 25 Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathways
WHY TOMBALL?
district-wide all while enhancing its robotics and STEM programs, providing every student an opportunity to find their place. Tomball Star Academy, the district’s early
BACK-TO-BACK
A A
2018-19 2017-18 *new A-F rating system
college high school, continues to thrive in
HIGHEST RATED SCHOOL DISTRICT
its third year offering students a rigorous, supportive learning environment and an opportunity to earn an Associates of Arts degree by the time they graduate from high school free of charge.
in NW Harris County
The district recently launched its Two-Way Dual Language Academy, a biliteracy program at Rosehill Elementary, that inte-
20
1 8,000+
TAX RATE: $1.29
CAMPUSES
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
grates native English and native Spanish speakers in one classroom setting to encourage students to become bilingual, biliterate and bicultural.
25
CTE PATHWAYS
RANKED #1
The district’s success not only stems from
FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY
the academic content offered but from the
BY TXSMARTSCHOOLS
support of its community stakeholders. Because of the overwhelming support, the district passed Bond 2017, which addresses improvements in all areas of academic
6.4% GROWTH
success from fine arts, technology and
IN STUDENT POPULATION
athletics
to
renovations
of
existing
campuses and the construction of a new elementary school, junior high school,
REPUTATION OF EXCELLENCE
INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATIONS
HIGHLY RATED
district stadium, natatorium and agricul-
OUTSTANDING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT SMALLER SCHOOL COMMUNITY ENGAGED FAMILIES A DESTINATION DISTRICT OF INNOVATION
tural science project center.
STATE-OF-THE-ART STADIUM COMING SOON
Tomball ISD makes sure every student finds a place to belong, a passion to pursue, and a love for learning that will @TOMBALLISD
www.tomballisd.net
serve them well beyond the years they spend in Tomball as it is not just a district, but a destination.
38
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
Willis ISD www.willisisd.org • 936-856-1200 Education is exciting for the more than 7,000 Willis Wildkats who attend one of
business management, health science, hospitality services and information technology. Individual talents and valuable life skills are enriched through the athletic, fine arts and extracurricular programs.
five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Willis ISD is a growing K-12 district nestled between the
Sam
Houston National Forest and Lake Conroe. Higher expectations for student achievement are set every year and are complimented by a comprehensive array of rigorous academic programs including Gifted and
Willis ISD honors small-town values and traditions. It is a community that pulls together for the kids and develops personal connections with them and their families. At the same time, staff and educators are focused on preparing the students to live and work successfully in the global community of the 21st century.
Talented, Career and Technology, Advanced Placement,
and
Dual
Credit
courses.
College-ready juniors and seniors can take Lone Star College courses in their high school classrooms, with some students graduating with more than 40 hours of college credit. Through the Career and Technology program, students can get a quick start on their career by acquiring skills in a variety of areas including architecture and construction, agriculture, audio/video technology,
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Covenant Christian School www.covenantonline.com • 936-890-8080 Covenant Christian School is an interdenominational, Christ-centered, college-preparatory school situated on a 35 acre facility serving students in Pre-K through grade 12. The school is nationally accredited by the
Photo Courtesy of Cypress Christian School
Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS). Covenant’s mission is for students to develop a sincere desire to impact the world with excellence and to glorify God in every area of life.
I Am A
Warrior Are You?
Serving grades K-12 throughout northwest Houston.
est. 1978
11123 Cypress N. Houston Road, Houston, TX 77065 | 281.469.8829 | CypressChristian.org
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
39
NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION
Photo Courtesy of Tomball ISD
Photo Courtesy of Tomball ISD
Teachers challenge students to succeed and
travels to New York performing at Carnegie
Fusion Academy, The Woodlands
stand behind them with the support needed
Hall in alternating years. In junior high,
www.fusionacademy.com • 281-419-1436
to fulfill their potential and reach their
creative drama teachers instruct students
dreams using faith-based college-prepara-
in performance and production, serving as
Fusion Academy is a fully accredited private
tory curriculum and experiential learning
a springboard for the annual Junior Class
middle school and high school where all
opportunities. Not surprisingly, Covenant
Play at the historic Crighton Theater.
classes are one –to-one: one student and one
is
known
for
teacher per classroom. This unique educa-
its consistently high
scores on standardized achievement tests.
A heartfelt and unwavering commitment to
tional model was born over 28 years ago out
More than 95 percent of graduates attend
excellence underlies all that Covenant does
of frustration with the status quo and the
colleges and universities throughout Texas
with every student. Covenant is located
passionate belief in the power of positive
and across the nation.
at 4503 I-45 North, Conroe, TX 77304.
relationships to unlock academic potential.
For more information and to schedule
Fusion’s school model isn’t solely about the
Sportsmanship and competition acquire
a tour, contact the Admissions Office at
smallest class size possible; it’s about helping
deeper meaning at Covenant. Coaches
936-890-8080.
kids flourish not only academically, but
encourage and train athletes to compete at
socially and emotionally, too.
high levels while instilling Godly character
Cypress Christian School
– on and off the field and court. Students
www.CypressChristian.org • 281-469-7745
in grades 6 thru 12 compete on a variety of
Many of their students feel like they don’t “fit” at a traditional school. That sense of
Cypress Christian School is a K-12 college
not belonging can make school an unin-
preparatory private school founded in
spiring place to be. Fusion serves kids who
1978, where students are challenged to
aren’t flourishing in a conventional envi-
develop their full potential, taught by
ronment, and offers them a community
expression
teachers committed to academic excel-
where they feel connected, supported, and
through art, music and drama. Starting in
lence and the Christian faith. CCS offers
understood. This creates a perfect solution
Pre-K, students receive instruction from art
STEM, Honors and AP courses and as
for kids who have mild learning difference,
teachers who offer children an awareness of
an AP Capstone school, provides the
ADHD, social anxiety or school avoidance;
beauty and detail found in God’s creation.
academic opportunities to ensure our
those who have a demanding extracurricular
The unparalleled music department stirs
100% college acceptance rate. CCS also
schedule; and those who are gifted and need
a lifelong appreciation for musical expres-
provides robust K-12 co-curricular offer-
more challenging material.
sion beginning with the youngest students
ings and award-winning programs in both
continuing through senior year. Cove-
athletics and fine arts including 3 state
Fusion Academy is so much more than a
nant’s championship Choral Praise Group
championships in 2018!
school. Along with being
championship teams throughout the school year allowing them to explore and develop God-given strengths and talents. Covenant
40
inspires
artistic
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
|
2020
CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 >
Fusion Academy The Woodland
One to One works
The value of fusion
You can't hide in a one-to-one classroom. You aren't competing with 40 other students to be heard. You aren't afraid to speak up because it's just you and the teacher. And there is no possibility of falling through the cracks.
Every student's path is different and we partner with others to help them achieve their goals, whatever they may be. Many of our students go on to attend a college or university, while some pursue a trade school, gap year, or another option.
Students and teachers spend their 50 minute class period together working through the material at a pace that works for the students. Our teachers work to first build trust with their students as a foundation for learning. We believe in the model "love, motivate, teach." Students aren't going to care about the material, if they don't feel connected with their teacher. A mentorship naturally forms, and that positive relationship drives student success.
While other schools may be cutting their art and music programs, we have a robust roster of electives for students to explore and pursue their creativity. We also have a wellness program that includes art and music, along with physical wellness and healthy habits. Students learn healthy self- expressions and how to deal effectively with stress, anxiety, low self- esteem, body image issues and social pressure.
beyond the classroom
Homework doesn't go home. Yes, you read that correctly. All students complete their homework in one of our Homework Cafe spaces on campus. Here, they have access to teacher help, and are kept accountable to finish their homework before leaving campus that day . No more nightly homework battles!
Schedule a tour to come see customized education in action! Call us at 281.419.1436 or visit us at fusionacademy.com
W H EN T R A DI T I ONA L SCHO OL S DO N ' T W O RK . ..
WE D O.
Fusion Academy is a fully accredited private middle and high school where positive relationships, one-to-one classrooms and customized education unlock the academic potential of every student.
fusionacademy.com Full-Time Academy
Hybrid Programs
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
Class for Credit
Tutoring/ Mentoring
NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION
a full time, accredited academy, they also
through an empowering, dynamic educa-
provide class for credit, hybrid programming,
tion within a spiritual world- view. Houston
and tutoring/mentoring. They work to find the
Christian is an independent, nonprofit,
right “Fusion Fit” for every family that walks
coed day school accredited by Independent
through their door. They support students
Schools Association of the Southwest and
currently enrolled at Fusion Academy, and
serves nearly 500 students in ninth through
also support students attending local public
twelfth grades. Its method of encouraging
and private schools over the summer and
student inquiry has produced National
throughout the school year.
Merit Scholars, Fulbright Scholars, perfect
Their commitment to customized education for every student is at the core of what they do at Fusion. They offer rolling admissions to get students back in school quickly; they have extended hours to meet student scheduling needs; and they are year round, which means they can get a student back on track for the upcoming school year or fulfill a course requirement in one summer.
SAT and ACT scores, an average of $7 million per year offered in college scholarships, and graduates who attend the most esteemed universities in the country. Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy www.legacypca.org • 936-337-2000 Founded in 2005, Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy is a private Christian school comprised of grades Pre-K through
Houston Christian High School
12th. Legacy Prep prepares students to be
www.houstonchristian.org
successful in college and life by providing a
Houston Christian High School engages
rigorous academic background that is rich
students
in opportunities.
to
become
impactful
leaders
The school strives to develop a biblical worldview combined with community service, a strong work ethic, and study habits critical to college-worthy students. The vision of
Teaching What Matters 2700 W Sam Houston Pkwy N | Houston, Texas 77043 | 713-580-6000 | www.houstonchristian.org HCHS_NW-RelocationAd-HalfPage_April17.indd 1
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Legacy Prep is to cultivate parental involvement in the educational process of their children and to come alongside parents to prepare the students to be college-worthy, character witnesses for Christ. Legacy Prep is a University Model School certified by the National Association of University Model Schools (NAUMS), headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. The school attained NAUMS certification in July 2008 and was recertified in April of 2014. Legacy Prep is also accredited by AdvancEd/SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools). The school participates in ASCI and TAPPS. Primrose School of Barker Cypress www.primrosebarkercypress.com 281-225-0123 Primrose School of Barker Cypress is a private preschool that provides an exclusive early learning approach that balances purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers to encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion. They believe who children become is as important as what they know. Primrose Schools is accredited by the early education division of AdvancED, a national academic accreditation agency. “How does Primrose do it?� Their research-informed approach to teaching, learning and care is unparalleled. They deliver more than a curriculum; it’s a lifechanging early learning experience for children and their families. The adventure of discovery and unparalleled learning that Primrose children experience comes from progressing through their comprehensive and connected Balanced Learning approach. “What is Balanced Learning?� Balanced Learning is Primrose’s exclusive, time-tested approach which nurtures intellectual, creative, physical and social-emotional development. It balances play and guidance to appeal to different learning styles; uses an inquiry-based early learning cycle; and enables teachers to focus on each child. Balanced Learning is created and regularly
reviewed by early childhood experts, and is time-tested. The mission of Primrose Schools is to forge a path that leads to a brighter future for all children, and their vision is to deliver the best and most trusted early education and care for children and families across America. These are high standards, but necessary for the Primrose experience. “What is the Primrose experience?â€? It is the peace of mind that their people, their Balanced Learning approach, and their commitment to service excellence foster in those who interact with Primrose Schools. Stop by Primrose School of Barker Cypress for a tour so you can experience the Primrose difference for yourself. The John Cooper School www.johncooper.org • 281-367-0900 An independent, PK-12, college preparatory school, located on 43 acres that were set aside for an independent school by Woodlands founder George Mitchell. The school opened in 1988 and has grown to become one of the premier independent schools in the Houston area. Cooper provides a challenging education in a caring environment. Traditional educational practices combined with innovative new teaching methods enable students to become critical and creative thinkers, effective communicators, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifetime learners. The Woodlands Prep International School woodlandsprep.org • 281-516-0600
From Curiosity to Wisdom A recognized leader in independent school education, The John Cooper School is celebrating 31 years of providing a challenging education in a caring environment.
Traditional educational practices combined with innovative programs teach students to become critical and creative thinkers, effective communicators, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifetime learners.
Join Us For An Admission Event JOHNCOOPER.ORG/ADMISSION
The Woodlands Prep is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, authorized to offer the IB programs across all grade levels for students ranging from 3 to 19 years old. Our school is widely recognized as the IB school of choice in The Woodlands and one of the leading international schools in the region. Our 20-acre campus is located in The Woodlands, TX, which is a master planned community North of Houston, ranked in 2018 as #2 Best City to raise a family in the US and #4 Best City to live in the US (Niche).
JOHNCOOPER.ORG ONE JOHN COOPER DRIVE THE WOODLANDS, TX 77381
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION
At the heart of our own philosophy is the desire to provide a global learning experience that nurtures diversity and promotes a global mindset. We strive to develop students who will build a better world through intercultural understanding, respect and multilingualism. As an international school, we have the knowledge and experience to assist families when relocating and settling into our community. We understand the specific needs of expats and local or international transfers, and our aim is to make their transitions as smooth as possible. Our unique English as a Second Language Program remains a particular highlight of the school, as we are the only school in The Woodlands to offer the program with such a diverse community. Our language program offers three core languages: Spanish, French, and Mandarin and supports more than 14 mother tongues, while still offering English-speaking
44
students a high-level Language Arts program. Other highlights of our holistic education include our TV Studio, Green Learning Spaces, Service and Action programs, and arts, sports, tech and innovation, and other extracurricular activities.
to learn that LSC has more than 99,000 students walk through its doors each semester. LSC is today’s smart choice for students looking to earn an undergraduate degree, start a new career or update their skills.
For more information contact our Admissions Office at admissions@woodlandsprep. org. We would love for you to be part of our wonderful community.
Students choose LSC because of the extra attention they get thanks to their small class sizes, averaging only 23 students per class, the convenient campus locations that are close to home and the flexible schedules LSC offers. No matter what their goals are, Lone Star College is ready to help them realize their dreams.
HIGHER EDUCATION Lone Star College www.LoneStar.edu Houston and the Gulf Coast Region can be full of surprises. World class museums, five-star restaurants and star-studded entertainment are just some of the amenities that attract people from all over the world. Another benefit the area enjoys is Lone Star College. Many people are surprised
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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. CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 >
LONE STAR COLLEGE
Reinventing the community college experience
Enrolling in a community college used to mean having to settle for less, but Lone Star College is changing that perception with a forward thinking approach to higher education.
Many LSC students take advantage of the Honors College at LSC. These high achieving students get the opportunity to study abroad and take part in international programs, curriculums not commonly associated with a community college.
Many people are surprised to l e a r n t h at L SC h a s a d i ve r se group of more than 99,000 credit and non - credit students walk through its doors each semester. LSC is today’s smart choice for s t u d e nt s l o o k i n g to e a r n a n undergraduate degree, start a new career or update their skills.
They also have access to many e x t ra c u r r i c u l a r a c t i v i t i e s a n d exciting ways to get involved with their campus and other students with a comprehensive schedule of both intramural and club sports, as well as many clubs and student organizations.
Students choose LSC because of the convenient campus locations that are close to home and the flex ible schedules L SC of fers. Plus they enjoy small class sizes, averaging only 23 students per class which offers greater attention given to their school work.
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
LSC is recognized as a world leader in workforce training and helps build a strong regional workforce in exciting 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.
easing the transition to college.
Students interested in a four-year degree make the smart choice of starting at LSC before transferring to the university of their choice, saving thousands of dollars without sacrificing quality.
the benefits, you can see why Lone Star College is changing
Student success is our top pr ior it y. LSC is a top degree producer in the nation, ranking fourth overall and sixth in conferring degrees to minority students. Affordable, close to home, world class. When you add up all the way people think about communit y colleges. Visit LoneStar.edu to learn more about the significant role LSC plays in the community. ď Ź
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION
Many students interested in a four-year degree start at LSC, then transfer to the university of their choice, saving thousands
For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been a leader in IT training. With over
of dollars without sacrificing quality. LSC students can also take advantage of the Honors College at LSC for high achieving students and study abroad and international programs, programs not commonly associated with a community college. 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 transition to college. LSC was recently recognized as a Top 5 producer of associate degrees, ranking fourth nation- ally among all community colleges in the U.S. by Community College Week magazine. LSC is a proud member of the community and a major contributor to the local and regional economy with an annual economic impact of nearly $3 billion. Affordable, close to home, world class. When you add up all the benefits, you can
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.
learn more about the significant role LSC plays in our community. New Horizons - Your Partner in Training 713-552-1414 • www.nhhouston.com
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Online ANYTIME,
on-site
training,
private classes and Online LIVE. Online Live removes geographical
boundaries
from learning by bringing students and instructors together synchronously in a virtual real-time classroom environment. This
program
provides
students
all
of the benefits of being in a dynamic interactive classroom – enabling students to study from work, home or a New Horizons center. New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based lab solutions as well, allowing students to access their labs anytime and anywhere.
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.
The state-of-the-art, fully-configured live
Flexible Training Approached Based on Learner Needs – They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy
that New Horizons training yields a 4:1
see why more than 99,000 students choose Lone Star College. Visit LoneStar.edu to
specific needs. Learning methods include
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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 benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager surveys
regarding
the
improved
performance and productivity of
their
employees immediately following New Horizons training.
IT’S TIME
LoneStar.edu/Register
04.23.19.01
Get your pick of spring classes before they fill.
in this section
Continuing Care Retirement Communities Senior Housing Options Assisted Living Communities
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ACTIVE ADULTS +senior living
The times of aging in America, they are changing – and many senior Northwest Houston and Montgomery County residents couldn’t be happier about it. Long gone are the days of mandatory retirement at age 65, and with it, the idea that one’s golden years were to be spent simply sitting quietly on the front porch in a rocking chair as they watch life go by.
More and more seniors don’t see them-
put out to pasture to watch the rest of the
selves as seniors (unless they get a discount
world go by. Today’s seniors now have
if they do). Increasingly, the years after age
many options, dreams and plans, and
65 are more numerous and more active.
very often, the energy to pursue them. Of
According to the U.S. Department of
course, people with more leisure time can
Health and Human Services, Americans’ life expectancy in 2000 was 76.8 years; in 2018, it was 78.7. One of the reasons is that Americans are healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor and emergency
perfect their golf swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas, but these days, they’re also choosing to go back to school, learn a new language, run marathons, volunteer,
room less, spend fewer days in hospital
or take up a new hobby. More people are
and exercise more.
opting to burn out rather than rust out.
Turning 65 no longer means receiving
And the options for living and playing are
a watch, a party and hearty congratula-
also evolving to meet the changing demands
tions for years spent at a job, only to be
of this growing group of people.
From upscale retirement communities that offer an array of housing, activity, exercise and social options, to full-care facilities that care for people with mental and physical disabilities, and every-thing in between, there is a senior living solution to fit every desire and need.
TAKING STOCK In order to narrow your options in what could be an overwhelming list of choices and to help seniors choose the best option, put some time into the stock-taking process by taking an inventory of living expenses, health, interests and expectations. Budget Inventory: what does it cost
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ACTIVE ADULTS & SENIOR LIVING
convert a portion of the equity in the home into cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD offers this federally insured private loan which can give people greater financial security to supplement social security, meet unexpected medical expenses, make home improvements and more. And, unlike a traditional home equity loan or second mortgage, seniors usually do not have to repay the loan until they no longer use the home as their principal residence, sell it, or pass away. The money from a reverse loan may be paid out in a variety of ways: a lump sum, a regular monthly cash advance, as a credit line account, or any combination of the above. To qualify, people must be at least 62, and own the home outright or carry a mortgage small enough to be paid off by the proceeds; there are no income or credit qualifications or monthly payments, but homeowners are responsible to pay the annual taxes, property insurance and maintenance of the home. to live every month? What will be spent on housing or rental; how much does it cost to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a mortgage on it? What other expenses may there be? Food, entertainment, transportation? What medical expenses should be put into consideration? Being as thorough and honest in the assessment one can will help those looking for senior housing make a more informed decision later. Lifestyle inventory: How does one want to live? Need more time for golf ? If so, choosing a golf course to live on might be the right fit. How about volunteering? Deciding to move closer to the city, school or community center may be best. Want to make new friends? Many senior’s communities are set up to allow residents to do just that. Again, the more careful seniors are in their analysis, the more prepared they will be to make the right decisions.
STAY PUT Seniors can retire in their own home by with- drawing some of the equity they have built up with a reverse mortgage, which is a special type of home loan that lets you
50
The best way to determine if a reverse mortgage is the best fit for your retirement plan is to honestly assess the following: • H ow much would the home sell for on today’s market?
seniors choose a new home, once again, take stock. Be realistic about the situation, the expectations, the finances and health. It’s as important to consider access to medical doctors and facilities as it is to think about fun and leisure pursuits. Make sure the new community is one that will be enjoyable, that it has convenient amenities and access to services, and that a new house will be a good investment.
ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES Healthy, independent seniors may find that they simply want to live in a community where they can enjoy the company of others and their own personal interests. Moving to an active independent living retirement community might be the best fit for the budget and lifestyle, where options include renting an apartment or purchasing a property. Many active senior communities have information packets and offer tours. A personal visit will give valuable, firsthand information and an opportunity to meet current residents who can share their own experience and insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness programs, organized activities, sporting options, and social opportunities. Other day-to-day living arrangements should also
• W hat would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home? • W ould there be any money left over from the purchase of a new home that could be safely invested? • W hat are the options for downsizing into a less expensive home, renting an apartment, or moving into an assisted living or alternative senior housing situation? (Visit AARP’s website and use their Reverse Mortgage Calculator: www.aarp.com).
be considered, such as shopping centers and grocery stores within easy walking distance, and
the
availability
of
transportation
services. Where is the community located in proximity to major health care providers? What security measures are in place for residents? For ultimate peace of mind, seniors might opt to rent a home under a short-term agreement at first to make sure the community provides for their needs and lives up to your expectations.
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
PACK IT UP
A Continuing Care Retirement Community
But maybe, it’s time for a move. Perhaps the 30-year family home is too big and they are rattling around it like a marble in a shoe box, or they are tired of the outdoor upkeep, or they want to be closer to the place or activities that they now have time for. Before
(CCRC) offers care in a residential facility
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for seniors, with a full menu of services and living situations. Residents may go from independent living, to assisted living and nursing home care, depending on their individual, changing needs and abilities.
A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or Communities) generally offers a contract that covers a continuum of care, including access to housing, services, and health care for more than one year, or the balance of one’s life. It is a wise idea to move into a CCRC sooner rather than later, as most require that new residents live independently when they first move in. There is a range of contract options offered by CCRCs. An extensive-care contract is the most expensive, but carries the least risk, providing unlimited long-term nursing care at little or no additional cost for as long as nursing-home services are required. A modified-care contract comes with medium financial risk, and provides long-term health or nursing services for a specified period, after which, the senior or guardian is responsible for additional costs. A fee-for-service contract offers an a-la-carte approach, requiring that residents pay separately for all health and medical services provided by the facility, as well as long-term care. Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus monthly fees thereafter. Some require an equity agreement where seniors purchase a condominium or co-op apartment on the property instead of paying an entrance fee.
Less commonly found are CCRC contracts where residents pay monthly fees only. Before signing a contract with a CCRC, conduct a thorough review of the facility’s
services, operations and finances, and determine if it is appropriate to your needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also a good idea to ask a family attorney or accountant to review the contract. If the contract is
SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS “The time to begin thinking about a retirement community isn’t when you have to have it,” advises Terry Martinez with Parmer Woods Retirement & Assisted Living. “Think about it when you don’t need it. There are a wide variety of alternatives available for every level of activity, health and need. Today’s Baby Boomers who are in or approaching their retirement years are taking advantage of active retirement communities where residents are vigorous and involved. Or, they are finding senior-care housing communities that em-ploy medically trained staff, provide housekeeping and meal preparation services, as well as transportation for shopping, medical visits, and social outing. Or, they are seeking a more physically and medically sup-portive environment. Whatever choice is best for you, it’s out there, but should be considered without stress.
And the prices vary. “When you’re trying to stay within a particular price range, you want to match your living requirements with services offered,” says Martinez. “If you are very independent and don’t need assistance – just want a meal plan, for example – then the associated costs are much less than for someone who requires more care.” Also, Medicare generally does not pay for long-term care, only for services deemed medically necessary that are provided by a skilled facility or home health care center. Medicaid will pay for certain health services and nursing home care for older people with low incomes and limited assets. The place you choose should facilitate life at a level of independence that is comfortable for you or for your loved one.
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ACTIVE ADULTS & SENIOR LIVING
dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities. As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions: • Are the grounds well maintained? • Is the staff friendly? • Are the residents properly dressed? • What activities are available? ALCs that competently provide required services without forgetting about little details will give the same care and attention to residents.
NURSING CARE FACILITIES A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a state licensed, private-care facility that provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home. found agreeable, ask to spend at least one night and two days at the facility, to test drive the community and make sure it is a good fit. Some points to consider include: • Are pets allowed in your residence? • W hat social, recreational and cultural activities are offered? • Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it?
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES An Assisted Living Community (ALC) bridges the gap for those who need assistance with daily activities a nursing home might offer, but wish to live independently. Residents in an ALC are unable to live completely by themselves, but don’t need constant supervision. An ALC offers its residents assistance with eating, bathing, dressing, laundry,
• Are there fitness facilities onsite?
housekeeping, and keeping track of
• Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable?
medications. They often have centers for
• W hat healthcare and personal care services are available?
the extensive medical services provided
medical care, but typically do not offer by a nursing home. An ALC is not a
• W hat preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations?
substitute for a nursing home, but rather
• I s there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided?
nursing home.
CCRCs can be anything from high-rise apartments, to cottages, townhouses or single-family homes, and are an excellent option for those who are independent and in good health, but might need some assistance with daily living needs or require skilled nursing care.
admission, detailing personal services that
52
is a stepping stone between complete independence and services provided by a
Often, an ALC will create an individualized service plan for seniors upon will be provided. This plan is then periodically reviewed and updated to ensure changing needs are met. Housing in an ALC may be studios or one-bedroom apartments with small kitchen facilities. Typically, ALC housing units have group
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It pays to shop around when selecting an NCF. Consult with a trusted doctor or health care practitioner for recommendations of nearby facilities. Plan on visiting at least four or five area facilities, and make an appointment with the administrator or director of nursing. Check to make sure that information provided is consistent with information gathered during the facility tour. The home should have clean floors and smell fresh. Ask to see the compliance survey report prepared by the State of Texas. It will list deficiencies found in resident care during routine inspections, and the facility’s effort to correct them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must make this and other survey compliance reports available upon request, as well as a well-lit place for review. Another option available is to contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) at 800-4589858 or www.hhs.texas.gov. While state law prohibits agency employees from recommending one facility over another, they can answer the following
recommended
questions
about
any
facility: • Have there been any proposed license terminations in the past two years?
ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES Seniors
diagnosed
specialized care.
• How many complaints have been filed in the past year?
with
Alzheimer’s
disease or another form of dementia need While some Assisted
Living Communities offer services and separate facilities for residents with
• How many complaints in the past year have been found to be valid? • How many deficiencies have been cited in the past two years?
early onset symptoms, because of the progressive nature of the disease, it may become necessary to transfer the resident to another facility that can give the right level of service.
• How many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years? • When did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit? • Has the owner of this
facility
had
Facilities specializing in the care of Alzheimer’s
and
dementia
patients
should provide a treatment plan that considers not
only
the
resident’s
medical needs, but also the needs
of
other facilities recommended for license
the entire family with social services,
termination?
professional consultations and individuquestions,
alized treatment reviews, all set within a
combined with observations and impres-
calm, soothing environment that is sensi-
sions made during facility tours and staff
tive to the needs of the patient. Please visit
interviews will allow you to select the
www.agingcare.com for additional infor-
right nursing care facility.
mation on care for the elderly.
The
answers
to
these
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In this section
Moving Companies Forwarding Mail Utilities Public Transportation International Relocation
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RELOCATION INFORMATION
No one likes to move and it’s never without its headaches and hassles, but the more you understand the process, and your new environment, the easier the move will be and the faster you can start enjoying your new home.
MOVING COMPANIES If you are moving from out of state, it may be necessary to hire a moving company. The best time to move is the middle of the month rather than the end or during summer vacation, when moving companies are busiest. If the move is less than 250 miles away, consider making the move yourself. Compare the relative costs of moving yourself versus using the services of a moving company, and be sure to take into consideration your time and effort, as well as your physical ability. At the other extreme, the global economy of Houston and Montgomery County draws newcomers from all over the world, and there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when moving from overseas. If your overseas move is work-related, find out how much of the expense will be covered. As a general rule, many experts recommend scaling the move down to essential items and those with emotional value. Find out about import fees and duty costs, especially for items you may have purchased overseas.
Also consider the size of your new space: will it be larger or smaller than the home you’re leaving? If you’re a U.S. citizen who is moving back from overseas, then you might have many items in U.S. storage, so you’ll need to plan the logistics of getting these to your new home as well.
so that if an item is added or deleted, it is
TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES
The non-binding estimate, which is the
Most companies give free estimates based on distance and the weight of household contents. Some moving companies include the costs of packing materials in their bid while others break out supplies separately. Packing services, fuel charges, wait time and temporary storage costs may vary considerably so be sure to ask about all charges. Moving companies offer three types of estimates: the binding estimate, non-binding estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate.
only type of estimate offered in some
The binding estimate lists all items to be shipped and the required services on the estimate form, and the price quoted is the binding price. Every charge is itemized,
prepared by the mover, including orders
easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving company must also specify the length of time the price quote is in effect, which is usually 60 days. This type of estimate does not require additional payment over the amount of the estimate.
intrastate situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost of services is determined after the truck is loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20 percent. Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both before and after furniture and household items are loaded to accurately calculate the total weight. The estimated amount of your move should be entered on each form that is for special services and bills of lading. If the amounts are not included, do not sign or accept the document.
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RELOCATION INFORMATION
FURNITURE AND APPLIANCE RENTAL In some cases, it may be necessary to rent furniture or appliances while waiting for your old ones to be delivered, or while shopping for new items that will fit your new space perfectly. Some companies specialize in renting furniture to newcomers and offer packages by the household, the room or by the piece. They also offer different styles, along with accessories such as artwork, lighting, rugs and indoor plants. Flexible lease terms, quick delivery and professional setup and removal are some of the services offered by rental companies. If you decide you like a particular item or items, purchase is usually available. The third type of estimate, called the not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best. The mover gives a binding estimate, then weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all movers if they offer this type of service.
It is important to be sure you will be at your
FORWARDING MAIL
new home on the date the moving company
To submit your change of address, go to www.usps.com.
MORE CONSIDERATIONS
Tax deductions may apply to your move so
Be aware that many moving companies fall behind schedule, so consider hiring a moving company that will guarantee a pickup and delivery date. Make sure those dates are in the contract. Pick-up and delivery dates should not be open-ended.
keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S.
Although moving companies provide liability insurance on household belongings by the pound, it is wise to purchase extra insurance that provides additional coverage, especially for those items that are more valuable.
• Select a moving company carefully and
Before the movers arrive, get prepared. Take an inventory of your belongings and note their condition. If the moving company performs their own inventory, check it carefully against your own before signing anything. Should any of your belongings arrive with scratches, dents or other damages, photographs will help verify a claim so consider taking pictures of valuable items or making a video inventory before the movers arrive.
www.mytexasmover.com or 512-476-0107,
56
is scheduled to deliver. If no one is home to receive the delivery, your belongings will go into storage, and the moving company may
LEGAL RECORDS
require payment in cash before unloading.
Legal Records maintained by Harris County and Montgomery County include birth certificates,
death
certificates,
marriage
licenses, automobile licenses, fees and
at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov, or ask your
inspections, divorce proceedings, DBAs,
tax preparer or attorney.
taxes, and more. Contact the county of resi-
TIPS FOR HIRING A MOVING COMPANY visit www.protectyourmove.gov to confirm their license. • The Southwest Association is another resource for information about moving
dence for specific services offered. The Harris County Civil Court House 20l Caroline, Houston, TX, 77002 713-755-6411; www.harriscountytx.gov The Montgomery County Court House 210 W. Davis, Conroe, TX, 77301 281-689-3133; www.mctx.org
companies and they can be reached at Toll Free: 800-759-2305 • Contact the Better Business Bureau for any complaints that might be on file at www. houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500.
UTILITIES ELECTRICITY Retail Electric Providers compete to sell electricity, allowing consumers to compare
• The Interstate Commerce Commission
plans, pricing and features. The Public
offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and
Utility Commission recommends the three
Responsibilities When You Move.” You
“C’s” before selecting a provider: contact,
can also find the brochure on many
compare, and choose. Allow several days for
websites by searching for its title.
the order to process. If establishing service
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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for a new home or building, a permit or
department in each city, or by a munic-
communications and entertainment system.
inspection may be required.
ipal utility district (MUD). There are
Plans from 6 Mbps up to 1 Gig, free wireless
a number of these districts throughout
router, no data cap and contract buyouts are
Select electricity, natural gas, local phone
Montgomery County and services vary
available. Consolidated also offers Digital
and long distance, cable or satellite televi-
by district. Contact your local city or
sion, and high-speed Internet services at
TV, Digital Phone and Home Security and
home owner’s association for detailed
www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.
Automation services. Learn more at www.
information.
consolidated.com or call 844.YOUR.CCI.
GAS CenterPoint Energy is the major provider
TELEPHONE, CABLE, AND INTERNET SERVICE
for natural gas in the greater Houston and
Greater Houston and Montgomery County
Montgomery County areas. As the regulated
have four area codes: 713, 281, 832, and
utility in the Houston area, CenterPoint
936. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing
Energy owns and maintains the electric
is required. The many telephone service
delivery system as well as sells natural gas.
providers to choose from also offer satel-
Visit CenterPointEnergy.com to learn more.
lite and cable television services, along
The ENERGY STAR program supports
with bundled services, special promotional
Terms and conditions apply. Services are not available in all areas.
TRASH PICKUP The Cities of Houston, Conroe, Humble, The Woodlands and Spring, along with many other municipalities, provide trash pick-up. Call the solid waste department in your jurisdiction to find out which day
rates and discounts for newcomers.
garbage and light trash are collected.
more about buying an ENERGY STAR
Consolidated Communications
Some subdivisions opt to contract with
home at www.energystar.gov.
As more of us buy items requiring Internet
local collection companies, and fees
service and create home networks, the
for these services are typically included
WATER AND SEWER
demand for faster Internet increases. Consol-
in the homeowner’s association dues.
Water, sewage and drainage services are
idated Communications can now offer you
Contact your homeowner’s association
typically provided by the public works
the speed you need to run a complete home
for information.
energy efficiency in new homes. Learn
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
Curbside recycling is offered in most neigh-
METRO offers curb-to-curb service for
borhoods, and drop-off recycling centers are
mobility impaired and disabled passengers.
located throughout the area.
Call 713-658-0180 or visit their website www.ridemetro.org.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION The Metropolitan Transit Authority of
OWNING A VEHICLE
Harris County, also known as METRO, is
New residents must obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of establishing residency. Texas residents moving to a new address within the state must update their license as well.
recognized as one of the best and safest bus systems in the nation offering an extensive system of bus routes and a growing network of light-rail lines. Express bus service is available to downtown Houston and other select shopping centers and business districts from the Greenspoint Transit Center, located near Interstate 45 North and Greens Road. For
commuting
alternatives,
METRO
provides Park and Ride services from transit facilities in Spring, and at Kuykendahl and I-45 North. The Harris County Motorist Assistance Program (MAP), sponsored in part by METRO, sends specially marked MAP vehicles to motorists who are experiencing car trouble on Houston area freeways. They are equipped to handle minor repairs and automotive emergencies. Houston’s major highways have High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes for vehicles with two or more passengers during peak travel periods. To share a ride, contact the METRO Carpool Matching Service, 713-635-4000.
To obtain a Texas driver license, take proof of registration, proof of insurance, a Social Security card or a current W-2 form, and a valid out-of-state license to the nearest Department of Public Safety office. For license requirements including fees and locations, visit www.txdps.state.tx.us. 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. Subsequent registration may be handled by mail or in person. Motor vehicle registration renewals may be purchased at various locations. Harris County 713-224-1919 • www.hctax.net Montgomery County 936-756-0571 or 281-364-4200 www.montgomerytexas.gov Texas law requires that the driver and front seat passenger wear seat belts. Children
eight years of age or younger or less than 4 feet nine inches tall must be secured in an approved car seat. Texas also has a mandatory automobile liability insurance law, and if a driver is stopped for any reason, proof of liability insurance coverage will be necessary. The insurance required must provide: $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000 per person per accident and $25,000 property damage. A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is available at www.txdmv. gov.
VOTING Texas voters must be 18 years old and register at least 30 days prior to an election. Those already registered to vote but who change precincts need to file an address change. For information, go to www.votetexas.gov. In Harris County, call 713-368-VOTE. In Montgomery County, call 936-756-0571 or 281-364-4200.
FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS For emergencies only: 911 For non-emergencies: 311 The Conroe Police Department and municipal police departments, the Montgomery County Sheriff, and Constables serve the region. The Houston Police Department or the Harris County Sheriff may have jurisdiction in some areas. Active Crime Watch programs operate in numerous neighborhoods, and another very valuable program known as Crime Stoppers accepts anonymous tips and offers rewards for information leading to an arrest. Houston Crime Stoppers 713-222-TIPS (8477) Montgomery County Crime Stoppers 1-800- 392-STOP (7867)
PETS In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing licenses and/or on a leash can be impounded. Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Boosters are given one year after the initial vaccination, and pets will need to be vaccinated at one- to three-year intervals depending on local requirements.
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LIVE THE GIG
Delivering 1 Gig speed to your home through fiber-to-the-home technology. Discover new and exciting things the Internet has to offer with CCI! If your home is like most, you have multiple devices tied to one Internet connection in your home. These devices can be TVs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, printers, home security systems or game consoles. The more devices you have connected to your Internet connection, the more overall speed you need to support them.
Consolidated Communications, Inc. (CCI) offers 1 Gig service*, which is equivalent to 1,000 Mbps, and is among the fastest connections available to residential customers across the nation. The 1 Gig service gives you the freedom to do more.
CUSTOMERS WITH A 1 GIG CONNECTION CAN EXPERIENCE: - Use multiple devices at once without sacrificing speed - S tream movies, download videos and upload photos with virtually no buffering or waiting - Experience online gaming with a fast, stable connection - R un multiple security cameras and use “smart home� technology with remote access to video, locks, lights, thermostat and other household devices -W ork from home with a reliable connection that supports VPN access and video conferencing -W ith no data caps you never have to worry about tracking your usage
*SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE IN ALL AREAS
TO FIND OUT MORE PLEASE CALL 844.YOUR.CCI OR VISIT CONSOLIDATED.COM.
ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION
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. 60
BANKS www.findabetterbank.com • A checking account can be opened individually or jointly. • A debit card will give you immediate access online and at ATMs. • Social Security number, driver’s license, proof of residence, photo ID (passport), pay stub or utility bill and a minimum opening deposit. • International banks in the USA include HSBC, Citigroup, Barclays, Deustche Bank and Credit Suisse. An account at one of these banks can usually be opened in the US.
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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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
There are a lot of decisions to make when establishing your new life in a new city, and one of the most important might be where to worship. Your new neighbors might be a great source of information: “Have y’all found a church yet?” they’ll say and they will be happy to help with directions and introductions.
And while it’s possible to find God (or Allah or Budda) in other places, church offers a community of like-minded and similar-spirited people to build relationships with. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship can also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, even groups with common interests to join. If you’re looking to settle in and get to know new friends, a congregation might be the perfect group in which to find them. Luckily in Houston, every spiritual need can be met. It is the most diverse city in the country and home to a variety of religious traditions – a reflection of the rich, international cultural mosaic that
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makes up the city. It is also home to what is by far the biggest church congregation in America – Lakewood Church, a nondenominational charismatic Christian megachurch, which has an average weekly attendance of more than 52,000. But there are many options of all sizes and styles, and West Houston offers a variety of churches ranging from Non-Denominational to Methodist to Baptist. Not to be overlooked, there are also several mosques and synagogues. All places of worship should allow a haven for people to come together and connect over their common beliefs. If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should be able to easily find your spiritual home here.
*Pew Research 2015
ASSEMBLIES OF GOD
HINDU
Harvest Family Church
harvestfamilychurch.tv
Hindu Temple of The Woodlands
Living Waters Assembly of God
livingwatersonline.org
ISLAM
Living Word World Outreach
livingwordwoc.org
Cypress Islamic Center
Spring First Church
springfirst.org
JEWISH
The River Assembly of God
theriverag.org
Chabad of The Woodlands
jewishwoodlands.com
Congregation Beth Shalom
cbsw.org
Congregation Jewish
cfccnet.org
Community North
cjcn.org
Jewish Community North
cjcn.org
BAPTIST Champion Forest Baptist
championforest.org
Clay Road Baptist Church
gocrbc.org
Community Baptist Church
cbcwoodlands.org
Copperfield Church
copperfieldchurch.com
Cornerstone Baptist Church
cstonebaptist.org
Crossroads Baptist Church
crbctw.org
Cypress Creek Baptist
cypresscreekbaptist.church
Fairfield Baptist Church
fairfieldbaptist.com
First Baptist Church of Tomball
fbctomball.org
First Baptist Conroe
woodlandshindutemple.org
cypressislamiccenter.org
LUTHERAN Epiphany Lutheran
elcsh.org
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
gslcthewoodlands.org
Grace Lutheran Church
graceconroe.org
Living Savior Lutheran Church
livingsaviortexas.org
fbcconroe.org
Living Word Lutheran Church
lwlc.org
First Baptist Church of Cypress
fbccypress.org
Prince of Peace Lutheran
popcopperfield.org
First Baptist Church Montgomery
fbcmontgomery.com
Resurrection Lutheran Church
churchthatcares.org
Houston Northwest Church
hnw.org
Salem Lutheran Church
salem4u.com
Jersey Village Baptist
jvbc.org
St. John Lutheran
stjohn-lutheran.net
Louetta Road Baptist
louettaroadbaptist.net
St. Paul Lutheran
saintpaulmagnolia.org
Spring Baptist Church
springbaptist.org
St. Timothy Lutheran
thirstyforjesus.org
Woodlands First Baptist Church
thewoodlandsfirst.org
Trinity Lutheran Church
TrinityKlein.org
BUDDHIST Texas Buddhist Association
METHODIST jadebuddha.org
CATHOLIC Christ The Redeemer
ctrcc.com
Prince of Peace
pophouston.org
Sacred Heart Church
shconroe.org
St. Anne Community
stanne-tomball.org
St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church
staoptw.org
St. Edward Catholic
saintedward.org
St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic
seascatholic.org
St. Matthew the Evangelist
stmatthewhou.org
CHRISTIAN Cy-Fair Christian Church
cfccnet.org
Cypress Creek Christian
cypresscreek.cc
CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ in Champions
championschurch.org
Cy-Fair Church of Christ
cyfairchurch.org
Jersey Village Church of Christ
jvcoc.org
Kleinwood Church of Christ
kleinwood.com
Magnolia Church of Christ
magnoliachurchofchrist.com
West Houston Church of Christ
westhoustonchurch.org
EPISCOPAL
Christ Church United Methodist
cc-um.org
Cornerstone United Methodist
cornerstoneumc.org
Faith United Methodist Church
faithumcspring.org
First United Methodist Church
fumc-conroe.org
Foundry United Methodist
foundrychurch.org
Klein United Methodist Church
kleinumc.org
Lakewood United Methodist
lakewoodumc.org
Spring Woods United Methodist
springwoodsumc.org
The Woodlands United Methodist Church
thewoodlandsumc.org
NON DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Community Church
calvaryhouston.com
Conroe Community Church
conroecommunitychurch.org
First Assembly of God
conroefirst.org
Living Branch Church
lbclife.org
The Crossing Church
thecrossing.cc
Vineyard Church of Conroe
conroevineyard.org
Woodlands Church
woodlandschurch.tv
ORTHODOX St. Cyril Orthodox Church
stcyril.us/orthodox-houston
saintjonah.org
Good Shepherd Tomball
goodshepherdtomball.org
St Jonah Orthodox
Holy Comforter Episcopal Church
holycomforterspring.org
PRESBYTERIAN
St. Aidan’s Episcopal
aidanschurch.org
First Presbyterian Church Conroe
fpcconroe.org
St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal
stcuthbert.org
Heritage Presbyterian Church
heritagepresbyterian.org
St. Dunstan’s Episcopal
saintdunstans.org
OTHERS
St. James the Apostle Episcopal Church
stjta.org
Hope City Church
yourhopecity.com
St. Mary’s Episcopal
stmaryscypress.org
Woodlands Church
wc.org
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In this section
Hospitals & Major Medical Facilities Medical Moving Tips Finding a Doctor
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Northwest Houston and Montgomery County have grown over the years to meet the healthcare needs of the communities they serve. Patients now have the opportunity to heal closer to home, work and family.
The city of Houston is world-famous for
expertise in cardiovascular disease, cancer,
tests. Some clinics are located within stores
medical care. At the forefront of advancing
children’s medical
life sciences, Texas Medical Center is one
ence,
of the world’s most respected medical
areas. More heart surgeries are performed
state-of-the-art
centers. Each year, the Texas Medical
here
cardiac care, cancer research and therapy,
Center receives 10 million patient visits. It
Visit them at www.tmc.edu.
problems,
neurosci-
or shopping centers and have extended
strokes, rehabilitations
and other
hours to accommodate their patients. These
than anywhere else in the world.
facilities
offer
advanced
trauma care, sports medicine, and many
has 106,000 employees, 50,000 life science
other innovative treatments. Staffs include
students and thousands of volunteers. It is
In addition to the most modern and
home to 21 renowned hospitals, 14 support
comprehensive healthcare
organizations, and a myriad of academic
the Greater Houston region,
and research institutions, and specialty
of Northwest Houston and Montgomery
schools. As the largest medical complex in
County areas can find family doctors and
the world with 9,200 beds, it is busy; a baby
specialists, as well as neighbor- hood emer-
is born here every 20 minutes and a surgical
gency clinics that are equipped to treat most
conditions such as smoking cessation and
procedure begins every three.
illnesses, minor injuries and other health-re-
weight loss. Wellness Centers affiliated with
facilities
in
residents
top ranking physicians, quality nursing care and highly skilled support services. Recent additions to personal health care options include specialty clinics that treat
lated needs. With little or no waiting, walk-in
hospitals or a physician’s practice frequently
The dedicated scholars collaborating at
patients can get a routine physical, school
offer weight reduction, health management
the Texas Medical
immunizations, and standard screening
programs and medical spa treatments.
Center
have
great
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
65
HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
AREA HOSPITALS CHI St. Luke’s Health CHI St. Luke’s Health is dedicated to a mission of enhancing health through high-quality,
cost-effective
care.
In
conjunction with physicians and community partners, CHI St. Luke’s Health is committed to excellence and compassion in caring for the whole person. Health is not merely the absence of illness or the presence of physical well-being, and our team of experienced, compassionate physicians and staff understands that it’s the result of achieving a balance between the elements found within each patient and in our greater communities as a whole.
MOVING MEDICAL TIPS 1
If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in this publication to get information.
2
Call the offices of all your current physicians/dentists and tell them that you are moving. Ask for referrals they might be willing to make.
3
If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of the records of each of your family members to your new doctor.
4
If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/ dentist to make copies of pertinent records of all your family members 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.
Our
North
Houston
community
is
constantly growing, and it’s part of our healing mission to grow with it. We’re dedicated to bringing well- ness to every member of our community by providing expert resources at convenient locations. With hospitals in The Woodlands and Springwoods Village, plus freestanding ERs and specialist clinics, we have you covered, no matter where you are or what you need. CHI St. Luke’s Hospital at The Vintage CHI St. Luke’s Health is dedicated to a mission of enhancing health through highquality, cost-effective care. In conjunction with physicians and community partners, CHI St. Luke’s Health is committed to excellence and compassion in caring
for
the whole person. Health is not merely the absence of illness or the presence of
5 6
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. 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
physical well-being, and their team of experienced, compassionate
physicians
and staff understands that it’s the result of achieving a balance between the elements found within each patient and in the greater communities as a whole. As part of the CHI St. Luke’s Health System, they are backed by one of the nation’s top
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.
health care providers to bring you access to incredible hospitals and emergency centers throughout the Greater Houston area and the expertise of the most compassionate caregivers in the region. A reason the families
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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here choose CHI St. Luke’s Health—The
staffed on-site by neonatologists
Vintage to keep them healthy. Make an
nurse practitioners from Texas Children’s
Advancing Health in Houston - Memorial
appointment with one of their experienced
Hospital; Midwifery services for expectant
Hermann has created Houston’s largest,
physicians at ApptASAP.org
mothers seeking “high-touch, low inter-
full-service, integrated health system focused
vention” care.
on advancing the health of the community.
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital
and
Memorial Hermann
For the system’s 5,500 affiliated physicians • Comprehensive Cancer Center including a
and 26,000 employees, it means exercising
Providing top-notch healthcare to the North-
Breast Care Center, an Infusion Center for
uncompromising commitment to deliver
west Houston area since 1983, Cypress
outpatient chemotherapy and an oncology
the best health care possible by harnessing
Fairbanks Medical Center is a community
nurse navigation program to guide patients
leading-edge technology and using the safest
cornerstone when it comes to health and
from diagnosis through survivorship.
methods. For patients, it means having the
care for families. Cy-Fair Hospital has 180 beds and nearly 500 doctors and skilled staff
best tools to prevent health problems as well • Full
spectrum
of
orthopedic,
as the best chance to regain their health
members. They offer a 24-hour emergency
medicine and
services
following an illness or injury. It’s no wonder
care facility, a Primary Stroke Center, an
from Houston Methodist Orthopedics &
Memorial Hermann is the only Houston
accredited Chest Pain Center, pediatric care,
Sports Medicine at Willowbrook; Sports
health system to receive both the National
bariatrics, ob-gyn services and much more.
Performance services including sports
Quality Forum’s National Quality Health-
Cy-Fair Hospital also has received advanced
nutrition, strength and conditioning, sports
care Award in 2009 and the 2012 John M.
Level
psychology and exercise physiology
Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and
III
Trauma Facility Designation
rehabilitation
sports
Quality from The Joint Commission and the
from the Texas Department of State Health Services, making their facility the first in the Cy-Fair area to receive this honor.
• A collaborative approach to treating back and neck pain, which includes orthopedic,
National Quality Forum, the nation’s guardians of health and safety.
neurological and rehabilitation services. One of the largest not-for-profit health
Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Leading Medicine in Northwest Houston
• Minimally invasive robotic surgery options
systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann
- Since opening in 2000, Houston Meth-
for conditions across a variety of special-
serves Southeast Texas and the Greater
odist Willowbrook Hospital has grown
ties including bariatric, cardiac, colon and
Houston community with 17 hospitals,
to serve the comprehensive health care
rectal, gynecologic, thoracic, urogyneco-
including four in the Texas Medical Center, a
needs of Northwest Houston. The not-for-
logic and urologic surgeries.
level I trauma center, a hospital for children,
profit, faith-based hospital, which is part of Houston Methodist, has 312 licensed beds and a medical staff that exceeds 900 physicians. “At Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, our mission is to offer leading medicine care where research, innovation, personalized care and service, and spiritual care and compassion all merge to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients,” says Keith Barber, chief executive officer at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital and senior vice president of Houston Methodist. The hospital’s comprehensive services include: • Accredited Chest Pain Center and certified Primary Stroke Center • Freestanding emergency care centers in Spring and Cypress • Award-winning maternity services with a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES
an orthopedic and spine hospital, and one of the top two rehabilitation hospitals in the United States, along with 10 suburban hospitals and two surgery centers. Building on a strong relationship with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, the system also operates three Heart & Vascular Institute locations; the Mischer Neuroscience Institute at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center; the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute at four locations; Women’s Memorial Hermann. Additionally, the system operates Memorial Hermann Life Flight® – the largest and busiest air ambulance service in the United States; the Prevention and Recovery Center for chemical dependency
treatment;
and a comprehensive
array of home health services, rehabilitation centers, outpatient imaging and laboratory services including The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Breast Care with Memorial Hermann. The system’s comprehensive ambulatory care network also includes Memorial Hermann Urgent Care and Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Centers. Everyday Well.com connects you to Memorial Hermann’s comprehensive
FINDING A DOCTOR Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also requires finding the grocery store you like, the schools your kids will attend - and the healthcare practitioners that fit the needs of your family. The following is list of local and national physician resource, including the American Medical Association - where you can search for general practice physicians by location, specialty, and more.
network of care, with convenient physical locations, virtual care and easy-to-use online tools for managing your health. The Woodlands - Since 1985, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital has provided high quality, patient- and family-centered care. It is the first and only hospital in Montgomery County to be granted Magnet® status for nursing
American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician resource under the
excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. And it is also the first and
“Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org
only hospital in the county to earn the
American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s
Baby-Friendly® designated birth facility
health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is comprehen-
by Baby-Friendly USA, Inc. for providing
sive site for health-related news, questions, and other topics. www.aap.
optimal care for breastfeeding mothers
org • www.healthychildren.org
and their babies. Memorial Hermann The
prestigious international recognition as a
Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across the state, as well as information on general health resources; go to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org
Wood- lands has 351 beds and is a primary stroke center and part of a citywide, accredited Chest Pain Center network and features open-heart surgery, complex arrhythmia services and cardiac rehabilitation. It is home to a Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Medicine Institute and TIRR Memorial Hermann rehabilitation services. CYPRESS - Located in the dynamic and fastgrowing Cypress area, Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital brings the expertise of the Memorial Hermann Health System, including the region’s top medical specialists, to families in the Cypress and Northwest Houston area. Their affiliated, board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals employ advanced medical equipment and state-of-the-art technology to address the community’s healthcare needs, from routine outpatient
visits
to
complex
inpatient
procedures. Opened in Spring 2017, the 81-bed Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital offers eight
Coronary Intervention” by Healthgrades
Outpatient services are now offered
operating rooms, 16-bed intensive care
and also recognized by WomenCertified as
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands.
unit, labor & delivery, NICU, cardiac cath-
One of “America’s Best Stroke Centers”.
The Outpatient Building houses 72 exam
eterization lab, a Life Flight helipad and
The hospital was located and designed to be
rooms and nearly 20 areas of specialized
24-hour, state-of-the-art emergency care by
a staple in the Cypress/Northwest Houston
care including cardiology, sports medicine,
board-certified emergency medicine physi-
area, located off highway 290 and accessible
diabetes and endocrinology, neurology and
cians affiliated with Memorial Hermann and
to the entire Northwest Corridor.
hematology/oncology.
nurses specially trained in emergency care.
Inpatient
at
services,
including the emergency center, will open in
On the same campus, a new 125,000-square-
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
2017. The hospital will house 32 inpatient
foot medical plaza houses physician offices
As Houston and its surrounding commu-
rooms, 25 emergency center exam rooms,
for a variety of affiliated specialists as well
nities grow, Texas Children’s Hospital
four operating rooms, 12 radiology rooms
as adult and pediatric health care provided
continues to expand as well. Texas Chil-
and 28 critical care rooms, with plans to
by Memorial Hermann Medical Group.
dren’s is not only committed to meeting
add up to 200 additional beds in the future to
The medical plaza also includes outpatient
the needs of patients and families we serve,
meet community needs.
lab and comprehensive imaging services (including mammography by MD Anderson Breast Care with Memorial Hermann) and sports medicine and rehabilitation. Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital is located at 27800 Northwest Freeway (Hwy 290), Cypress, Texas, 77433, east of the Grand Parkway between Mueschke and Mason. North Cypress Medical Center North Cypress Medical Center is a 175-bed
but we are committed to doing that in a way that works for them. For so many, this means providing care close to home. That’s exactly why we are building Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands. The communities in this area are some of the fastest-growing in the nation, with a combined population already exceeding 1.1 million. The pediatric population alone
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands is led by Michelle Riley-Brown, president, Dr. Charles Hankins, chief medical officer and Dr. Jeffrey Shilt, chief surgical officer. Texas Children’s anticipates serving families in counties throughout Greater North Houston including Montgomery, Walker, Grimes, Liberty, Harris, Polk, San Jacinto and Hardin counties and beyond. The hospital building project is part of
physician-owned, general acute care hospital.
is projected to grow to more than 350,000
Their services include the absolute latest
in the next three years. In order to meet this
including state-of-the-art equipment and
need, Texas Children’s Hospital The Wood-
technology, fantastic physician on staff and a
lands, a 560,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art
$475 million fundraising effort is to help
beautiful upscale building, much like a 5-star
facility, is being designed specifically to serve
ensure that Texas Children’s continues to meet
hotel. Northwest Cypress Medical Center
children and families. We are proud that the
the needs of the patients it serves 5, 10 and
has achieved many accolades including
hospital will be the first dedicated to chil-
even 20 years from now. For more informa-
falling in America’s “Top Best Hospitals for
dren’s care in The Woodlands community.
tion, visit texaschildrens.org/woodlands.
Promise: The Campaign for Texas Children’s Hospital. The goal of the comprehensive
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69
In this section
North Houston Major Employers Local Chambers of Commerce Houston by the Numbers City of Conroe Top Employers
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BUSINESS &
COMMUNITY If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a newcomer relocating to the Houston region for the city’s tremendous employment opportunities – some of the best in the nation.
Within
the
600-square-mile
Houston
The
city’s
diversified
economy means
public education), leisure and hospitality
region, no area shines brighter than the
opportunities always exist. If energy is
Northwest
Montgomery
floundering, other sectors sail on. More
County area, home to one of the largest
than 8,200 vessel calls and 215,000 barges
Northwest Houston is a significant part
recent corporate relocations anywhere in
pass through the Port of Houston in annu-
of this dynamic business environment and
the nation. Houston is still the place for
ally. One of the region’s largest employers,
continues to see growth in corporate relo-
the Texas Medical Center should handle
cations,
another 10 million patient-visits. Area
new residents. With the opening of
refiners will continue to supply one-fourth
Houston campus of Exxon Mobil near I-45
of the nation’s gasoline, diesel and jet fuel
and the Hardy Toll Road, this trend will
needs. International trade will continue
continue. The state-of- the-art campus will
to be a significant contributor to Hous-
house its Upstream, Downstream, Chem-
Houston
and
business and work. A year after the
oil
bust reached its bottom, the city’s economy is recovering, but slowly. From October 2017 to October 2018, the Houston metropolitan area added about 117,800 jobs. The unemployment by the end of March 2019
and health care.
business
development
and the
ton’s economy; more than 5,000 Houston
ical companies and associated service
was 3.7 percent, lower than it has ever been
firms will engage in international business.
groups and will ultimately accommodate
in more than a decade. If the price of oil
Another new Houstonian will arrive about
10,000 workers. Other prestigious compa-
continues to rise, the Houston area will see
every 4 minutes, and this population growth
nies located in Northwest Houston are
a possible increase of 71,000 or more in
will continue to drive job gains in a number
Sysco, Friendswood Development, and
jobs for the year 2019.
of sectors, including government (especially
Hewlett-Packard.
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
Area businesses run the gamut with auto
NORTH HOUSTON
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
and any other service or product a thriving city requires. Tech companies
have
lined
Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce www.conroe.org
up along SH 249 and the Vintage Park is an
First organized as the Montgomery County
Anadarko Energy Svc. Co.
84-acre complex of high-end shopping, enter-
Chamber of Commerce in 1934, the Greater
Anadarko Petroleum Corp.
tainment, restaurants and professional office
Conroe/Lake Conroe Area Chamber of
Archrock Inc
space. Newcomers can expect to find clusters
Commerce is celebrating 83 years of service
Baker Hughes
of office
warehouses and light
to the Montgomery County area, having
manufacturing facilities. Service companies,
grown from three members to more than
building
construction companies,
1,100 today. This dynamic organization
related business groups
works to generate awareness, create partner-
BP Bredero Shaw Broadcom Corp.
suppliers,
buildings, and and
continue to fill the existing commercial spaces.
ships and provide leadership for progressive
Callfasst International Corp
In fact, this part of Houston is known for its
development and growth while enhancing
CB&I Inc.
distribution facilities due to its handy location.
the quality of life in Montgomery County.
While all of Northwest Houston is benefit-
Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce www.CyFairChamber.com
Conroe Regional Medical Ctr. Criminal Justice Dept. DB Schenker USA
Source: SalesGenie InfoUSA and information provided by area chambers of commerce and economic development agencies
dealerships, grocery stores, hotels, eateries,
ting from the new ExxonMobil campus, The Woodlands, Spring and I-45 North areas are
Estelle Unit
also undergoing major change. ExxonMobil
Express Jet Airlines Inc.
has grabbed the headlines lately – and rightly
ExxonMobil Downstream
so – but Montgomery County is also home
ExxonMobil Upstream Research
to a growing number of major companies,
Fleetpride Inc FMC Material Handling System FMC Tech Measurement Solutions
including Anadarko Petroleum, with its 2,400 employees in The Woodlands. With other big employers including Hewitt Associates, Baker Hughes and Huntsman, The Woodlands has
FMC Technologies Inc.
become one of Houston’s biggest employment
GE Oil & Gas
centers and is sprouting an impressive skyline
George Bush Intercontinental Airport
visible along I-45 North. There’s already talk
Halliburton Co.
of this region emerging as Houston’s second
Houston Methodist Willowbrook
“Energy Corridor.”
Cy-Fair boasts a favorable business climate in which to live and grow. Since 1986, the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce has represented business in one of the fastest growing areas of Texas, providing a voice for the over 500 members to establish strategic partnerships in transportation, education
and
infrastructure. Members
include small to medium organizations to Fortune 500 companies, and benefits include mentoring new businesses, exclusive sponsorship and marketing opportunities, instructive seminars, workshops and valuable data resources.
Houston Northwest Medical Ctr.
As the need for more employees and
Kingwood Emergency Hospital
houses grow, so too, does the need for
The Chamber is also active in growing
Lone Star College-Cy Fair
buildings and facilities for businesses
economic development, facilitating trans-
Montgomery County Courthouse
serving them. The Northwest Houston
portation, as well as supporting schools
Mrs. Baird’s Bakeries Inc.
and
and educators to ensure a skilled or highly
MS Energy Svc. Nabors Drilling USA LP New Caney ISD NOV Nova Health Care Ctr.
Montgomery
County
areas
are
hopping and full of energy.
trained work force for the future. Members of this dynamic network take advantage of
City of Willis Economic Development Council www.visitwillis.com The Willis Economic Development Corpora-
opportunities to grow their businesses, build relationships and interact with the community. The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com
PCS-CTS
tion (EDC) provides assistance and resources
Ricoh USA
to business owners in the City of Willis. The
The Grand Parkway (SH99) is a proposed
Schlumberger
Willis EDC offers resources, incentives, and
180+-mile circumferential scenic highway
TAS Commercial Concrete
information that help business owners make a
traversing seven counties and encircling
good decision about where to locate their busi-
the Greater Houston region. This third
ness, and serve as an advocate as businesses
outer highway loop is funded by various
get up and running in the community.
sources, and its first segment, from US-59
Tomball Regional Med. Ctr. Wood Group Mustang Engineering
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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to north of IH-10W, was opened to traffic
Mont- gomery County since 1982, supporting
leaders, work to generate publicity about
in August 1994. Two new sections through
area businesses and giving back to the
their own business through active involve-
north Houston from US-290 to US-59 have
community. The Chamber’s leadership has
ment in Chamber activities or have a role
just been opened. Development on the
succeeded in providing answers to members
in community affairs. In addition, members
highway continues.
and the community, increasing mobility and
can take advantage of many events organized
improving environmental quality.
by the Chamber, like Business After Hours,
Greater Conroe Economic Development Council www.gcedc.org
Greater Tomball Chamber of Commerce www.tomballchamber.org
The Greater Conroe Economic Develop-
The Greater Tomball Area Chamber of
ment Council works to link new or relocating
Commerce provides resources and fosters
businesses to all the resources they need,
relationships so businesses can prosper. First
allowing them to make informed decisions
organized in the 1920s, the Greater Tomball
and enjoy a seamless transition experience.
Chamber of Commerce has since grown
Their mission is to enhance the strength and stability of the greater Conroe economy by supporting existing businesses and industries and attracting new ones, bringing in new capital and employment opportunities.
Greater
Commerce
Magnolia has
served
reputation for representing the interests of
others. The golf classic, the Chairman’s Ball, Tomball Night, Tomball Holiday Parade and Miss Tomball Pageant are major events in the City of Tomball. GTACC and its partners work together to ensure spirit of community and quality of life are more than just phrases in this city with a heart.
its members, while providing passionate
The Greens Bayou Corridor
advocacy for the community. The Chamber’s
www.greensbayou.org
Program of Work is divided into four categories: Economic Development, Community
The Greens Bayou Corridor Coalition seeks to
Service, Special Events and Membership
benefit the economy and enhance the quality
Development. Through these initiatives,
of life for the more than 500,000 residents in
of
members have the opportunity to network
the Greens Bayou water- shed through flood
Southwest
with other business people and community
mitigation, parks and trails development, and
Greater Magnolia Chamber of Commerce www.magnoliatexas.org The
into a vital organization with an excellent
Networking Luncheons and Breakfasts and
Chamber
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73
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
economic growth. Greens Bayou meanders
HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house here, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help figure out the rest. If you made $53,759 in Denver, for example, your salary could decrease to $41,995 in Houston - and you’d still maintain the same standard of living. See the table below for the results from a sampling of other cities.
approximately 45 miles from Jersey Village, across north Houston, through Greenspoint and down to the Houston Ship Channel. The variety of scenery and wildlife of the bayou is as diverse as the neighborhoods through which it runs. Working with partners and stakeholder groups, the Coalition’s mission is to develop Greens Bayou Corridor as: an essential, attractive and well-planned multi-use waterway; a linear park and trail system; a utility corridor; and a high-capacity cross-country transit/highway link. The Coalition also seeks to improve the viability of
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
MOVING FROM HERE
SALARY
businesses along the bayou corridor by fostering economic development, minimizing flooding, preserving desirable green space and providing
Phoenix
61,439
New York City
25,910
transportation and utility services.
Detroit
61,825
Los Angeles
41,995
Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce
Austin
61,375
Chicago
50,705
San Francisco
33,401
Las Vegas
54,454
Boston
40,831
Portland
45,498
nesses and a thriving community, on a variety
Denver
53,759
St. Louis
63,697
lative issues, connectivity events, workforce
Miami
52,466
Raleigh
65,104
Pittsburgh
59,756
Cincinnati
64,818
expect unique marketing and visibility through
Dallas
61,311
Charleston
58,336
customers to help their businesses grow.
www.houstonnwchamber.org The
Houston
Northwest
Chamber
of
Commerce works to develop successful busiof fronts, including road access projects, legisdevelopment projects or economic development initiatives. Membership businesses can the chamber, as well as access to products and
In addition to advocating for area business, the Chamber is also interested in maintaining livability and, in the last few years, has hosted, sponsored or supported at least eight different community grass roots initiatives including the Cypress Creek Greenway Case Study, a Livable Center Study Grant and several crime prevention
task forces.
A
key initiative, Grow
Northwest is a strategic plan to build upon the community’s successes and to advance the local economy. Learn more at www.GrowHoustonNW.com Magnolia Parkway Chamber of Commerce
www.magnoliaparkwaycc.org The
Magnolia
Parkway
Chamber
of
Commerce promotes member businesses and
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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Visit us today at
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75
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
encourages economic development in their service area
along
FM
CITY OF CONROE TOP EMPLOYERS
1488, FM 2978
and beyond. Calling itself “the Chamber without borders,” it hosts monthly meetings and events throughout the year for members and prospective members. Montgomery County Hispanic Chapter www.mchchamber.org
Conroe Independent School District
Medivators Inc
Elementary And Secondary Schools
Mckesson Pharmaceutical
Conroe Independent School District
Ball Corporation
Montgomery County
Huntsman Petrochemical Llc
Conroe Regional Medical Center
Ms Energy Services
Nov Downhole
Protect Controls Inc
City Of Conroe
Anyone with an interest in supporting or
Consolidated Communications Services
developing a relationship with the Hispanic
Wal-Mart Stores Inc
business community in Montgomery County
Nov Fluid Control 3 Locations
and surrounding area is welcome to join the
Professional Directional
MCHC. Not only do they work to help busi-
Tri-County Services Inc
nesses penetrate the growing Hispanic market,
Gullo Cars Of Conroe, Inc
but they are also involved with issues important
Crown Beverage Packaging Team Oil Tools San Jacinto River Authority Nexeo Solutions Llc Bauer Manufacturing Streater-Smith Honda Nissan
to the Hispanic community, such as immigra-
Jyoti International Inc
Hempel Coatings USA Inc
tion, day labor, education and health.
Milk Products Lp Dba Borden
Lone Star Family Health Clinic
Nov Texas Oil Tools
Conroe Machine LLC
Turbo Drill
Tony Gullo Motors I, LP
Russell Construction Company
John Wiesner Inc
North Houston District www.northhouston.org The North Houston District is a dynamic community 15 miles north of downtown Houston and minutes from Bush Intercontinental Airport and the Port of Houston. It is
the environment, and quality of life, all of
The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce
which have a profound and
www.woodlandschamber.org
lasting effect
home to some of Houston’s most prominent
on the economic development of the busi-
companies. In fact, more than 100 energy-re-
ness climate and community of the area.
lated companies and thousands of non-energy
Building strong alliances with partners, they
businesses are located here. The prime loca-
have been able to achieve milestones like
tion makes the District ideal for companies
gaining grass roots support for the Hardy Toll
conducting business locally and around the
Road, advocating for the Grand Parkway,
corporations. The Chamber continuously
globe. With excellent hotels and restaurants,
establishing the Greens Bayou Corridor
cultivates new and innovative ways for
many parks, with miles of walking or hiking
Coalition, developing the Aerial Land Use
members to market themselves, their prod-
trails, and a commitment to attracting the best
Map, creating a Strategic Mobility Plan and
ucts and services to fellow members and the
in commercial and residential life, the North
many other endeavors
community. It is working to be an effective
Houston District works hard to create an Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce
center in which to work, live and play.
www.springkleinchamber.org
The North Houston Association advocates and supports projects and initiatives
business associations in the Houston region, the Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce represents small and emerging businesses, mid-market companies and industry leading
catalyst for the economic growth and pros-
appealing, safe, accessible and green activity
The North Houston Association www.north-houston.com
As one of the largest and most influential
The Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization with a mission to connect businesses within the Spring-Klein area, which in turn will allow the growing
perity in the Woodlands area. The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership www.edpartnership.net The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership can help existing companies
which advance the business environment
community to thrive. Through a variety of
and improve the quality of life in North
networking events and programs, executives,
and families to this dynamic community
Harris and Montgomery counties. Estab-
business owners and like-minded profes-
where they can live, work and grow. It is a
lished in 1982, the non-profit organization
sionals can succeed, while contributing to
direct link to all the area has to offer, allowing
works with its members to consider issues
the success of others and the overall business
business people to make informed decisions
of mobility, education, workforce training,
climate of the Spring and Klein areas.
and smooth transitions.
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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expand or help move a company, its employees
Harris County
The largest county in the eastern half of state; level; typically coastal surface and soils; many bayous, canals for artificial drainage; Lake Houston, Sheldon Reservoir; partly forested.
1876
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LR
521
Harris County © Texas Almanac
South Houston
William P. Hobby Airport
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LR LR
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288
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Retail Sales..............$88,892,139,887
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LR
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59
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BN
GRIMES
Rolling, half timbered; Sam Houston National Forest; loam, sandy, alluvial soils; Lake Conroe and Lewis Creek Reservoir.
1791
149
Wages................................$2,191,523,418 Per Capita Inc...............................$60,490 Prop. Value......................$54,317,835,443 Retail Sales.........................$7,833,735,189
LR
494
Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.
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In this section Sports and Golf Parks and Attractions Arts and Culture Dining and Shopping Calendar of Events
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LEISURE & RECREATION
In the Northwest Houston and Montgomery County area, you’re only minutes away from a world-class culinary, arts and cultural scene. Houston’s live theater, music, and opera are highly regarded; and the fine arts, both classic and contemporary, are on display at the many galleries and museums. There are sporting events year-round and the city’s parks welcome picnickers, hikers, bicyclists, boaters and pets.
From art fairs to crawfish festivals, from live music to rodeos, there’s always a reason to get out and enjoy yourself in Montgomery County. And when you want to venture a little further from home, all the attractions of the Greater Houston region are right next door. Conroe Convention and Visitors Bureaus Discover all the entertainment treasures Conroe has to offer, including concerts, restaurants, golf courses, a calendar of events and more. You’ll also find travel planning and professional planners for business groups. Several helpful publications are offered at www.playinconroe.com or call 936-522-3500. Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau Discover the fun side of the fourth largest city in America. The Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau (GHCVB) is the principal marketing organization for the city of Houston and Harris County and highlights all the venues, events, museums and fun things to do. It offers itinerary planning, information
for business travelers and conventions, a list of free stuff, and much more. Discounts and coupons are available on their interactive web site in both English and Spanish along with comprehensive information including an online events calendar, maps, video gallery, city blog. Visitor information packets and a Meeting Planners guide can be found at www.VisitHoustonTexas.com. Citypass Adventures See five of the most popular one-of-a-kind sights Houston offers at a discount with CityPASS: Adults -$59 – Children $49. You have nine days to use them and they save you nearly half off regular ticket pricing. Available at the Houston Visitor’s Center www.VisitHoustonTexas.com. Old Town Spring Visitor Bureau Enjoy a stroll back in time among more than 150 shops, galleries, museums and restaurants that line the shady lanes of Old Town Spring. Take in one of the many events and festivals held year-round, or just relax in one
of the gazebos. For accommodations, tours and a map, visit at www.shopspringtexas. com or call 281-288-2355. The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau is always ready to share information about fun things to do and is a great resource for visitors, newcomers and residents. Whether it’s just the two of you, a getaway with the family, a reunion or large gathering, or a business meeting, there’s something for everyone in The Woodlands. Try award winning restaurants, wine bars and world-class entertainment in Town Center. Or enjoy the great outdoors by renting a kayak or strolling along The Woodlands Waterway, taking in an outdoor concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion or hiking through the winding trails at the George Mitchell Preserve. Request a free visitor’s guide and map at www.visitthewoodlands.com or call 877-963-2447 or 281-363-2447.
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SPORTS
& GOLF
Northwest Houston offers a wide variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone: couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scenes. With year-round mild temperatures, getting up and getting out has become a way of life.
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SPECTATOR SPORTS The Houston Astros www.astros.com Part of the West Division of Major League Baseball’s American League, the Houston Astros are on a roll. Currently the winningest team in baseball, the team and its fans are having a lot of fun. Playing in Minute Maid Park, one of the country’s few stadiums with a retractable roof, the team serves up entertaining baseball action at home about 80 times over the course of the season. Fans enjoy gourmet hot dogs, handmade hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex fare and many other delectable choices while enjoying the game. Around the park, many restaurants, clubs and music venue hop, especially on game day. The Houston Dynamo www.houstondynamo.com Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Houston’s Major Soccer League club. The team name is reflective, in part, of Houston,
Photos courtesy of the Houston Texans
an energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, fans have lots to cheer about as this team continues to rank well both at home and internationally. The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass Stadium, an architecturally acclaimed venue, located east of downtown.
The Houston Rockets 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
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LEISURE & RECREATION
an exciting roster that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and new up-and-comers, like Deshaun Watson. Sunday football is celebrated in NRG stadium cheering on the team, tailgating with friends in the parking lot before and after the game, at many sports bars around town, or in front of your own television. Go Texans!
GOLF
Buffalo Bayou - Photo courtesy of Visit Houston
basketball champions, the Rockets are
The Houston Texans
regular challengers in playoff action and
www.houstontexans.com
always provide exciting end-to-end action in the Toyota Center. Many star players
Football is huge in Texas and the Texas are
have passed through the team’s roster over
huge in Houston. In their 16th season, this
its almost-fifty-year history and now James
NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012
Hardin and the rest have launched the
and 2015 AFC South Division Champions.
Rockets back into competitive contention.
Head coach Bill O’brien has put together
Houston is a golfer’s paradise with over 200 days of sunshine. And in Northwest Houston, a wide range of municipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Fazio. Or watch the professionals grip it and rip it at the nearby Houston Open. In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA professionals and First Tee Programs are offered throughout the area.
GOLF COURSES April Sound Country Club
aprilsoundcountryclub.com
Houston Oaks Country Club
houstonoaks.com
Bear Creek Golf World
bearcreekgolfworld.com
Jersey Meadows Golf Course
jerseymeadow.com
BlackHorse Golf Club
blackhorsegolfclub.com
Lake Windcrest Golf Club
thegolftrails.com
Cypresswood Golf Course
cypresswood.com
Longwood Golf Club
longwoodgc.com
Del Lago Golf Resort
latorettalakeresort.com
Memorial Park Golf Course.
houstonmunicipalgolf.org
Gleannloch Pines Golf Club
golfgleannlochpines.com
River Plantation Country Club
riverplantationcc.com
High Meadow Ranch Golf Club
highmeadowranchgolf.com
The Village Golf Club
thevillagegc.com
Heron Lakes Golf Club
heronlakesgc.com
WindRose Golf Club
windrosegolfclub.com
Houston National Golf Club
houstonnationalgolf.com
Woodforest Golf Club
woodforestgolf.com
PRIVATE Bentwater Yacht & Country Club
bentwater.com
Bluejack National Golf Club
bluejacknational.com
Lake Windcrest Golf Club
lakewindcrestgc.com
Canongate at the Woodlands
canongatetexas.com
Northgate Country Club
northgatecountryclub.com
The Clubs of Kingwood - Kingwood theclubsofkingwood.com
Raveneaux Country Club
raveneaux.com
The Clubs of Kingwood - Deerwood theclubsofkingwood.com
River Plantation Country Club
riverplantationcc.com
The Club at Carlton Woods
carltonwoods.com
Walden on Lake Conroe Golf Club
playwalden.com
Champions Golf Club
championsgolfclub.com
The Woodlands Country Club
thewoodlandscc.com
Hearthstone Country Club
clubcorp.com/clubs/hearthside-country-club
Willow Creek Golf Club
willowcreekclub.com
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The Golf Trails of The Woodlands thegolftrails.com
Photo courtesy of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce
PUBLIC
2020
PARKS Bane Park
fields, four lighted softball fields, one regula-
Dennis Johnston Park
tion lighted football field and covered horse
Dennis Johnston Park is a 45-acre facility with
arena with concession stands and restrooms.
a pavilion and picnic tables, a small pond,
Bane Park is a 18.2-acre facility with barbecue
pergola, walking trails, a butterfly and huming-
grills, picnic pavilions, picnic tables, two
Collins Park
bird garden, and access to Spring Creek. Also,
lighted ball fields, a five-acre wheelchair-ac-
Collins Park is a 55-acre facility with five
the park is home to Big Stone Lodge, which
cessible fishing
horseshoe
lighted softball fields, four lighted base-
is a shared use facility that serves as the Parks
pits, paved walking trail, playground, rock
ball fields, one unlighted soccer field, one
Department administrative headquarters and
climbing wall, sand volleyball court, splash
sand volleyball court, two playgrounds,
a Precinct 4 community center.
pad, and rest room facilities.
a skate park, nature trails, picnic tables,
lake,
gazebo,
barbecue grills, rest room facilities, a
Doss Park
Burroughs Park
canoe launch, and limited access to fishing
Doss Park is a 33-acre facility with five
Experience the lush landscape, winding
along Cypress Creek.
lighted softball fields, two lighted tennis
trails, and lakefront views at this 320-acre
courts,
three
pavilions,
batting
cages,
splendid park in Tomball. Amenities at
Cypress Creek Greenway
picnic tables, barbecue grills, a playground,
this facility include sports fields, a seven-
The Cypress Creek Greenway Project
walking trails, and rest room facilities.
acre fishing lake, five playgrounds, over
is underway and will ultimately create
eight miles of nature trails, picnic areas, an
a continuous 40-mile greenbelt along
Gene Campbell Sports Complex
observation deck and boardwalk, rest room
Cypress and Little Cypress Creeks. The
Gene Campbell Sports Complex, located
facilities, a dog park, and an award-winning
greenway will feature a multi-use trail
at 3200 FM 1484, Conroe, Texas 77303, is
barbecue pavilion that seats over 250 people.
system that will pass through parks and
a 60-acre facility with six lighted baseball
link to trails that extend into communi-
fields, six lighted softball fields, conces-
Charles Traylor Memorial Park
ties. In addition, the Bayou Preservation
sions and restrooms. Sports programs are
Charles Traylor Memorial Park, located at
Association (BPA) is leading the effort on
offered through Conroe Area Youth Base-
13551 Rogers Road, Willis, Texas 77378, is
Cypress Creek to develop a paddling trail
ball (CAYB) and Conroe Area Girls Softball
a 61 acre facility with eight lighted baseball
that will extend 30 miles.
Association (CAGSA). Private use of the
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83
LEISURE & RECREATION
Photo Courtesy of Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
fields requires prior permission from Montgomery County and the ball association and is subject to availability. Gwen Hruska Park Gwen Hruska Park is located on Brandon
Water Wall Galleria - Photo Courtesy of GHCVB
Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve is an 80-acre property featuring Marshall Lake, which spans approximately 40 acres, plus a staff building, paved roads and parking lots, restroom facilities, and 1.7 miles of trails.
Road in the unincorporated area of River Plantation three miles south of Conroe on Interstate 45. The park includes 5,022 linear feet of concrete trails funded by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Grant Assistant Program. The park consists of 12 acres of land acquired through Federal Emergency Management
Agency
(FEMA)
buyout
properties and land donations after the 1994 flood disaster. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is a premier 312-acre Harris County Precinct 4 nature preserve open daily to visitors free of charge. The park features a variety of plant and wildlife species, white sand beaches along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs with century-old cypress trees, and a pristine floodplain located in a hardwood and pine forest. All features are accessible by over eight miles of paved, handicap-friendly pedestrian trails and several unpaved primitive trails. The Spring Creek Greenway, with over 12 miles of paved trail system along Spring Creek, is also accessible from the park’s Judy Overby Bell Trail.
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Lake Conroe Park Lake Conroe Park, located at 14968 Hwy 105 West, Montgomery, Texas 77356, sits on the west shores of Lake Conroe and offers 13 acres of grounds, barbeque pits, picnic facilities and restrooms as well as swimming areas and fishing piers. Additional amenities include two covered pavilions available for rent, a softball field and volleyball areas. Admission is $2.00 per person, kids 5 and under are free. Lindsay/Lyons Park and Sports Complex Lindsay/Lyons Park and Sports Complex is a 136-acre facility with 10 lighted baseball fields and four lighted softball fields, two lighted football fields, 18 unlighted soccer fields, two lighted soccer fields, a barbecue pavilion, two playgrounds (including one all-inclusive playground and rest room facility for children of all physical abilities), picnic tables, barbecue grills, rest room facilities, and a concession stand with a pavilion. Matzke Park Matzke Park, a 19.4-acre facility, includes a multiuse trail with water fountains, rest
NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
room facilities, one cricket field, an all-inclusive barrier-free playground, two picnic pavilions, one gazebo, and a butterfly and sensory garden. Memory Park Memory Park is alive with native and naturalized Texas trees and plants, and there are walking trails, benches for relaxing, pavilions, a fountain, bridges, rainwater projects, a duck nesting area, specialized gardens, a naturalized area and waterfalls surrounding a large pond. The park contains a Shakespeare garden featuring a bust of the bard, signage in braille donated by the Lions Club, and various statues including the Honor Flight Eagle dedicated to the local veterans of World War II. Many of the plants and items in the park have been purchased and donated by families in memory of their loved ones. Mercer Botanic Gardens The arboretum and botanic gardens are divided by Aldine Westfield Road. On the east side is the botanic gardens where over 20 acres of beautifully maintained gardens feature bamboo, color displays, daylilies, endangered species, ferns, gingers, herbs, tropicals, to name a few. The east side also has an extensive walking trail system, a Remembrance Walk for memorials and honorariums, ponds, a visitors’ center, courtyard plaza, plus much more.
Meyer Park Meyer Park is a 180-acre facility with 26 soccer fields (ten are lighted), two unlighted softball fields, a basketball court, barbecue pavilion, gazebo, paved trails, nature trails, duck pond*, a threeacre fishing lake, picnic tables, barbecue grills, two age-specific play- grounds, 15 exercise stations, recycling bins, and rest room facilities. Mussel Pond Preserve Mussel Pond Preserve is a 22 acre conservation easement under Legacy Land Trust located on FM 2854 in Montgomery County Precinct Two. The site is named for the unique native Texas freshwater mussels (Unionidae) found along the edge of the ten acre pond located on the preserve. The formal opening of the preserve was in 2009. Montgomery County War Memorial Park Montgomery County War Memorial Park is located in downtown Conroe on Highway 105 in front of the Montgomery County Tax Office. The Veteran’s Park,
as it is commonly called, was dedicated
ORWALL Sports Complex
April 29, 1976 by Gerald Ford, President
The Woodlands Sports Park, located on
of the United States in memory of those
Pruitt Road in south Montgomery County,
who served our country. The Veterans of
is a 27-acre park consisting of softball, foot-
Foreign War, Montgomery County Demo-
ball, and baseball fields with concession
cratic Party, The Patriotic and Historical
stands and restrooms. The Park property
Society as well as various other organiza-
is owned by the Woodlands Corporation
tions, hosts ceremonies on Memorial Day
and leased to Montgomery County who
each year commemorating fallen soldiers
subleases with Oak Ridge – Woodlands
of Montgomery County.
Area Little League, Inc. (ORWALL). ORWALL maintains the park and facili-
Montgomery County Nature Preserve
tates the recreational programs. Private use
The
of the fields requires prior permission from
Montgomery
County
Preserve,
located at 1122 Pruitt Road in south
the association.
Montgomery County behind the Recycling Facility, provides a wonderful area for
Spring Creek Greenway
birdwatching, native plant observation and
Explore over 12 miles of natural forests and
hiking. The 71-acre green way, free to visit
white sandy beaches along the creek from
and open to the public daily, brings many
Harris County Precinct 4’s Dennis Johnston
ecotourists
Montgomery
Park in Spring, Texas to Jesse H. Jones Park
to
southern
Naturalists as
and Nature Center in Humble, Texas. Along
well as Butterfly Enthusiasts of Southeast
the way, stop in for a picnic by Hart Lake
Texas (B.E.S.T.) hosts official national
at the 380-acre Pundt Park or discover local
butterfly counts, monitors water quality,
wildlife and plant species at the 120-acre
and provides educational programs for
Stahl Preserve. Also nestled between Pundt
area citizens.
Park and Jones Park is Carter Park, a
County.
Local
Master
115-acre facility featuring a canoe launch, a 12-lane archery shooting range with Olympic-level target distances, and nature trails for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Tamina Park Tamina Park is a four acre parcel of land located approximately one half mile east of Interstate 45 in South Montgomery County on Main Street. The site contains a small community building, a softball field and covered basketball court with four goals, picnic tables and benches, playground equipment, barbeque grills, and bike racks. West Montgomery County Park West Montgomery County Park, located at 16716 FM 149, Montgomery, Texas, 77356, is a 50 acre park with five lighted baseball fields, four lighted softball fields, two football fields, restrooms, two concession stands and picnic areas. West Park is maintained by Montgomery Youth Sports Houston Museum of Natural Science - Photo courtesy of Visit Houston
Association and Montgomery Girls Softball Association.
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ARTS, CULTURE s n o i t c a r t & At
The theater district is an impressive cultural and entertainment center; features nine world renowned performing arts organizations, and many smaller ones, in four venues – Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.
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THEATER DISTRICT Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002
levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers.
and adults and hold performances by both
Houston Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org
Stages Repertory Theatre 3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com
local authors and established writers.
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. Bayou Place 500 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.bayouplace.com Bayou Place is Houston’s premier destination for great food and good times. Popular venues such as the Revention Music Center and Sundance Cinemas are located here as well as many dining options – most popular is Houston’s own Hard Rock Café. This mosaic of entertainment options makes Bayou Place a prime spot for the Houston Theater District. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings first-class entertainment and cultural enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series. Houston Ballet 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as works.
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.
Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in
Houston Symphony 615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org
The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest
the region that offers year-round employment for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres. Society for FINE the Performing Arts 615 Louisiana St., Ste. 100, Houston, 77002 www.spahouston.org
nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed
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.
artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class
www.thehobbycenter.org
contemporary
This
Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually. Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com
company
attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy whose instruction
Founded in 1975 and has been opening doors for locals of all ages to engage in the performing arts. They offer classes for children
musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities. Wortham Theater Center 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.
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LEISURE & RECREATION
MUSEUM DISTRICT The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com Otherwise known as the “Garage Mahal”, The Art Car Museum is dedicated to contemporary art. It is an exhibition forum for local, national and international arts with an emphasis on art cars, other fine arts and artists that rarely, if ever, are acknowledged by other cultural institutions. Most popular to Houstonians is the annual Art Car Parade. Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is proud to educate the public and preserve and promote the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America’s Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present. Here, you can find workshops, youth outreach programs and exhibits about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service.
anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place
The
for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.
dedicated to educating people about the Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors’ legacy. The Holo-
The
Contemporary
Arts
Museum
caust Museum Houston has a permanent of
Houston is an institution dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Patrons of every age will appreciate the collections of work and dynamic exhibitions on display. CAMH also offers special programs and educational opportunities. Admission is Free.
exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers,” as well as other pieces of history. The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org The Menil Collection is an art museum that houses both permanent collection and welcomes special exhibitions. Making art
The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org
accessible to all is vital to their mission, so no admission fee is charged and all public programs are free. They hope to educate and inspire by being readily accessible to future
The Health Museum is Houston’s most
generations.
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
The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org
dren’s Museum of Houston will not leave
is
5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org
A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store,
fun-filled hands on experience at the Chil-
Houston
Holocaust, remembering the 6 million
in the country. Popular exhibits include:
infant play area are all under one roof. The
Museum
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org
Mexican village, puppet show and an
Holocaust
DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion and the McGovern 4D Theater.
The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org The Museum of
Fine Arts, Houston
presents its exceptional exhibitions and installations to Houston residents and visitors alike. The Museum has numerous collections that fill the galleries year-round embracing every era of history from across the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou
As one of the most heavily attended
Bend Collection not too far away. From
museums in the United States, the Houston
2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum
Museum of Natural Science (HMNS)
of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a
seeks to enhance knowledge and delight
magnificent two new buildings.
in natural science and related subjects. It houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permanent exhibit areas that examine astronomy, space science, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and minerals, Texas wildlife and more. www.hmns.org Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org Photos Courtesy of Children’s Museum
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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. This art museum is free, and open to the public in an effort to promote participation in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.
TEXAS
Wineries
will not offer tours when it hosts any type of event, public or private. Call Haak Vineyards to verify that it will be having a tour on the Friday, Saturday or Sunday you plan to visit. www. haakwine.com
RANCHER’S DAUGHTER Rancher’s Daughter was once a boutique in Western Winery; today it’s a boutique in downtown Montgomery with its own winery. Celebrating everything Texas, the shop sells 275 varietals of wine, while the winery produces wines with names like Highway 105, Spotted Mule, and Cowgirl Blush. Wine enthusiasts and friends gather on the third Wednesday of the month for Wine Down Wednesdays that feature
THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF SOME OF THE PREMIER WINERIES NEAR HOUSTON BERNHARDT WINERY This down-home Texas winery is set in the rolling hills near Plantersville. Here, award-winning small-batch wines of classic varietals and unique blends are created, and visitors are treated to a fun tasting experience in a warm environment. But there’s much more here, too. The winery hosts many events, like the Summer Sunset Lawn Concert Series, the Vino Piazza Primavera – an artisan marketplace – weddings and other private functions. Plus, visitors can stay at The Loft Bed and Breakfast. www.bernhardtwinery.com
CORK THIS! WINERY Started by a former business executive that wished for greener grass (or vineyards), the people at Cork This! make wine fun and have fun making wine, producing wines with names like “Party on your Palate,” “Rich Urban Biker,” and “Irreconcilable Differences.” It’s a favorite place for locals and travelers alike because wine tasters are made to feel comfortable and welcome. Cork This! Has a strong Groupies Wine Club and hosts numerous events. www.corkthiswinery.com
from Texas wildflower honey sourced from a farm on the nearby Texas gulf coast prairies, which was selected for its location far from sources that could affect the taste of the naturally flavorful and nuanced honey. www.enchantedmanormeadery.com
GRIFFIN MEADERY Griffin Meadery is located in Willis and is producing small-batch, premium quality wine and liquid gold. Meads range from a cinnamon and vanilla combo with a festive flair, to ones that taste of black current, chocolate or even jalapeno, but beware: the last one has a kick! You can also learn how to make your own mead. The legendary griffin is known as the guardian of treasure, and that’s what they’re producing here. www.griffinmeadery.com.
HAAK VINEYARDS AND WINERY Though Haak Vineyards and Winery is not on the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail, it is close to home. This is the only vineyard that
speakers, wine and music.
WHITLEY VINEYARDS AND WINE BAR Whitley Vineyards and Wine bar is located in the heart of the historic district of Montgomery and features handcrafted wines. Owner Gina Whitley used to stroll through her 1/3 acre back-yard vineyard at sunset with a glass of wine, and dream about a future as a vintner. Today, that dream is coming true. A family operation, the vineyard and wine production creates quality reds, roses, and whites. Whitley hosts regular ladies’ nights and welcomes visitors as part of the annual Antiques Festival in the historic district of Montgomery. www.whitleyvineyards.com
WILD STALLION VINEYARDS Wild Stallion Vineyards began in 2008 with a small test planting of Blanc du Bois grapes, a variety most suited to the gulf coast region. The vineyard has grown to over three acres and a range of varieties. Both the 2014 Sweet Moscato and the 2014
produces commercial wine in Galveston
Blanc du Bois (Dry) were Southwest Wine
County, which is less than an hour from
Summit Silver Medal Winners. Located
ENCHANTED MANOR MEADERY
downtown Houston. Each $10 tour includes
near the Woodlands, The Wild Stallion
Enchanted Manor Meadery of Magnolia brews meads onsite at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Their meads are crafted
a Madeira tasting and samples of four other
Event Center hosts many events, like
wines from the vineyards. The tour times and
Sangria Saturdays, concerts and weddings.
availability dates may change as the vineyard
www.wildstallionvineyards.com
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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Delicious HOUSTON’S
DINING SCENE When it comes to restaurants, Northwest Houston has one of the best in the nation, according to a new Yelp ranking. Tony’s Italian Delicatessen at 16283 Highway 105 tops the list of the website’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the US for 2017. The eatery’s menu boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods.
Marvino’s Italian Kitchen 24002 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429-7312 www.marvinositaliankitchen.com Jaxton’s Bistro 9955 Barker Cypress Rd. #104 Cypress, 77433 www.jaxtonsbistro.com Gianna Italian Kitchen 28301 249 #100, Tomball, 77375 www.giannaitaliankitchen.com Mel’s Country Café 124814 Stanolind Rd.,Tomball, 77375 www.melscountrycafe.com Adriatic Cafe Italian Grill 17402 Northwest Fwy Jersey Village, 77040 www.adriaticcafe.com Punta Cana Caribbean Restaurant 17776 Tomball Pkwy, Houston, 77064 www.puntacanahouston.com Gauchos Do Sul 126 Vintage Park Blvd, Houston, 77070 www.gauchosdosul.com Thai Chefs 6965 Barker Cypress Rd Ste D Houston, 77084 www. thaichefshouston.com Banh Mi ETC 9211 West Rd Houston, 77064 www.banhmietc.com Mint Thai Kitchen 17513 Tomball Pkwy Houston, 77064 (Willowbrook) www.mintthai.kitchen Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen 10115 Louetta Rd Ste 400 Houston, 77070 www.ambriza.com Carriage House Café 9945 Barker Cypress Rd Ste 125 Cypress, 77433 www.thecarriagehousecafe.com Pecos Grilling Company 28900 Tomball Pkwy.,Tomball, 77375 www.pecosgrillingco.com Mezzanotte Ristorante 13215 Grant Rd Ste 1200 Cypress, 77429-4094 www.mezzanotte.tv Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen 27030 Northwest Freeway Cypress, 77433 www.gringostexmex.com Season’s Harvest Cafe 17303 Shaw Rd, Cypress, 77429-1321 Nyam Nyam Cafe 15201 Mason Rd, Cypress, 77433-5954 www.nyamnyamcafe.com Locatelli’s Pizza 13215 Grant Rd, Ste 500 Cypress, 77429-4093 www.locatellis.com
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Dario’s American Bistro 14315 Cypress Rosehill Rd Cypress, 77429-1013 www.dariossteakhouse.com
Guadalajara Hacienda 27885 Interstate 45 N. The Woodlands, 77380 www.guad.com
Newk’s Eatery 25712 Northwest Freeway, Suite A Cypress, 77429 www.newks.com
Hubbell & Hudson Bistro 4526 Research Forest Drive The Woodlands, 77381 www.hubbellandhudson.com
Cypress Breakfast House 12344 Barker Cypress Rd Cypress, 77429-8359 www.cypressbreakfasthouse.com
Jasper’s 9595 Six Pines Dr, Ste 900 The Woodlands, 77380 www.jaspersthewoodlands.com
Saltgrass Steak House 23952 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429-6173 www.saltgrass.com
Landry’s Seafood 1212 Lake Robbins Drive The Woodlands, 77380 www.landrysseafood.com
CorkScrew BBQ 26608 Keith St. Spring, 77373 www.corkscrewbbw.com
McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers 17099 Walden Road Montgomery, 77356 www.mckenziesbarbeque.com
Alicias Mexican Grille 26326 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429 www.aliciasmexicangrille.com
Nick’s Fish Dive & Oyster Bar 20 Waterway Ave., Ste 105 The Woodlands, 77380 www.nicksfishdive.com
Merche 21208 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429-5975 www.mercherestaurant.com
Ocean Boullevard Bistro & Martini Bar 1200 Marina Dr, Just off Highway 105 Montgomery, 77356 www.obbistro.com
MOD Pizza-Towne Lake 9925 Barker Cypress Rd Cypress, 77433-5314 www.modpizza.com
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen 18165 Interstate 45 S. Conroe, 77385 www.pappadeaux.com
Rice and Bean Cuban Cuisine 26281 Highway 290, Suite 212 Cypress, 77429-1055
www.riceandbeanscubancuisine.net
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 6700 Woodlands Pkwy., Ste. 300 The Woodlands, 77382 www.perrysrestaurants.com
Carl’s Barbecue 21920 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429-3377 www.carlsbbq.com
Ransom’s Steakhouse & Saloon 300 CB Stewart Drive Montgomery, 77356 www.ransomssteakhouse.com
7 leguas 15949 Highway 105 W, Suite 66 Montgomery, 77356 www.7leguasmex.com
Robard’s Steakhouse 2301 N Millbend Drive The Woodlands, 77380 www.robardssteakhouse.com
Black Walnut Cafe 9000 New Trails Drive The Woodlands, 77381-5208 www.blackwalnutcafe.com
Thai Wok In Resturant 15917 Highway 105 W Ste F Montgomery, 77356 www.thaiwokin.com
Caffe di Fiore 10110 Woodlands Pkwy. The Woodlands, 77382 www.caffe-di-fiore.com
The Big Sombrero 19402 Highway 105 W Montgomery, 77356 www.thebigsombrero.net
Cozy Grape Wine Bar and Bistro 14340 Liberty Street Montgomery, 77356 www.cozygrape.com
The Pizza Shack 20873 Eva St Ste G Montgomery, 77356 www.pizzashack.com
Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse 1900 Hughes Landing Blvd, Suite 400 The Woodlands, 77380-3794 www.fogodechao.com
The Republic Grille 4775 W. Panther Creek, Ste. 490 The Woodlands, 77381 www.therepublicgrille.com
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria 20 Waterway Ave Ste 100 The Woodlands, 77380-3442 www.grimaldispizzeria.com
The Toasted Yolk Cafe 2129 W Davis St, Suite c Conroe, 77304 www.thetoastedyolk.com
SHOPPING The Boardwalk Towne Lake 9945 Barker Cypress Rd. Cypress, 77433 www.boardwalktl.com The Galleria Houston 5058 Westheimer Rd. Houston, 77056 www.galleriahouston.com Houston Premium Outlets 29300 Hempstead Rd. Cypress, 77433 www.premiumoutlets.com Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir Katy, TX 77494 www.katymills.com Market Street 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands, 77380 www.marketstreet-thewoodlands.com Old Town Spring Spring Preservation League, 123-F Midway, Spring, 77373 www.oldtownspring.com Outlets at Conroe 1111 League Line Rd. Conroe, 77303 www.outletsatconroe.com Willowbrook Mall 2000 Willowbrook Mall Houston, TX 77070 www.shopwillowbrookmall.com The Woodlands Mall 1201 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands, 77380 www.thewoodlandsmall.com HHOOUUSST TOONNNNEEWWCCOOMMEERRGGUUI D I DEESS. C . COOMM
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CALENDAR of EVENTS Northwest Houston & Surrounding Area events you will not want to miss
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JANUARY
FEBRUARY
Challenge. Come join the excitement as we welcome close to 9,000 runners.
Chevron Houston Marathon
Texas Home & Garden Show
Established in 1972, the Houston
Houston’s Premier “One Stop Shopping
Marathon Committee, Inc. (HMC),
Opportunity” for all your home & garden
a Running USA Founding Member,
needs. From Windows and Doors to
annually organizes the nation’s premier
Ceilings and Floors over 700 experts,
winter marathon, half-marathon and 5K.
products, services and ideas all under
Over 250,000 participants, volunteers and
one roof. This event is one of Texas
spectators make this marathon largest
homeowners best resource for advice,
single-day sporting event in the city.
money saving tips, remodeling ideas and
raising and marketing of better livestock
www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com
landscape features needed to make a
and farm products at public fairs and
home and garden.
to promote and maintain research and
www.texashomeandgarden.com
educational functions within the livestock
Mlk Grande Parade Held in Midtown, this parade is devoted
www.thewoodlandsmarathon.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,
industry. It is the general policy of the
to promoting racial harmony through
Annual Houston Brazilian Carnaval
education and building awareness. The
Show to utilize, in the fiscal year subse-
Celebrate Carnaval in true Brazilian style,
MLK Grande Parade attracts more than
quent to which it is earned, the excess of
straight from the streets of Rio, with live
300,000 spectators with 15 professionally
drummers, 2 DJ’s, and dancers covered
its revenue over expenses for the further-
designed floats, 30 marching bands, and
in beads and feathers. This colorful
over 150 performing groups.
Houston-based bash celebrates Carnaval
www.mlkgrandeparade.org
in Houston, including the rhythms of
Mardi Gras Galveston Island Don’t miss the revelry at Mardi Gras! Galveston! The island comes alive with extravagant parades, more than 50
Samba School Drums. www.houstonbraziliancarnaval.com
MARCH
ance 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. www.rodeohouston.com
galas and festive events, bead throwing,
World’s Champion Bar-B-Que Cookoff
exhibits, live entertainment in local clubs,
You won’t want to miss the biggest
and the best Gulf Coast cuisine in the
pre-party to the world’s largest live-
The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival
world. One of the most popular annual
stock show and rodeo. More than 250
It is among the top art festivals in the
events to take place in Texas, the event
teams led by barbecue aficionados
country, featuring over 200 interna-
is rich with laughter, celebration and
will compete in a traditional Texas
tional, national and regional fine artists
people watching. There is something for
cook-off. While most team tents are
displaying their original works in a wide
everyone including a beachfront carnival,
invitation-only, visitors can enjoy the
variety of mediums at The Woodlands
shopping, and nightlife featuring every-
public venues including the Miller
Waterway and in Town Green Park. The
thing from Cajun and salsa to jazz and
Lite Garden, Rockin’ Bar-B-Que
festival includes five entertainment stages,
rock and roll.
Saloon and the Chuck Wagon, where you receive a complimentary chopped
hands-on art activities and plenty of great
www.mardigrasgalveston.com
beef sandwich plate. Come enjoy
APRIL
food and beverages. www.woodlandsartsfestival.com
Taste of the Town at The Woodlands
three days of cooking, competition,
Town Center
eating and dancing!
Taking place at The Woodlands
Magnolia Historical Depot Day
www.rodeohouston.com
Live Entertainment and children’s
Waterway Marriott, Taste of the Town
activities, barbecue and other great food,
is the premier culinary event of South
The Woodlands Marathon
Montgomery County. Enjoy mouth-wa-
The Woodlands Marathon is a BOSTON
tering appetizers, entrees, desserts,
QUALIFIER and has seen will traverse
Depot Day serves as the Magnolia
pastries, and beverages from some of
the streets of Town Center and the
Historical Society’s annual fundraiser.
the area’s finest restaurants, caterers,
community on a single-loop 26.2-mile
Help support the Historic Depot building,
bakeries, deli’s and beverage companies.
pretty flat course, finishing on the scenic
the Pavilion, Dr. Ware’s Office and the
Ticket includes food, beverages and
Waterway. Participants have the oppor-
Replica of the first Magnolia Post Office.
festivities. www.tasteofthetown.org
tunity to run for charities in the Charity
www.magnoliatxhistoricalsociety.com
a car show and Live and Silent Auctions.
HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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LEISURE & RECREATION
Bridgeland Nature Fest
Over Texas has become Houston’s
Hunters Extravaganza
Bridgeland’s annual Nature Fest
signature annual Independence Day cele-
Taking place at NRG Park, this is the
showcases this award-winning master-
bration and attracts nationally recognized
place where hunters from across Texas
planned community’s commitment to the
recording artists as well as regional and
and beyond gather each year to get
environment and ecosystem. Highlights
local talent.
include food trucks, roaming entertainers,
ready for hunting season. Whether
www.freedomeovertexas.org
its deer hunting equipment, hunting
educational animal demos, unique crafts from artists and nature vendors, and a
Red, Hot And Blue Festival
kid’s zone with rides and activities.
Enjoy vendor booths, great food,
www.bridgeland.com
children’s activities and entertainment
MAY
on multiple stages. This event in The Woodlands culminates with one of the
Beyond The Pints – Craft Beer And
largest fireworks displays in the greater
Music Festival
Houston area.
Sample more than 40 local and national
www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov
craft breweries while listening to live
accessories, hunting clothing, rifles, knives, archery or any other hunting gear-hunters know they’ll find it at the Hunters Extravaganza. Plus, hunters enter great contests, see exciting attractions, meet their favorite hunting and sports celebrities and more! www.ttha.com
SEPTEMBER
music. East from locally owned and oper-
Kingwood July 4Th Festival
ated food trucks. Family friendly, with a
And Fireworks
Taste Of The World Houston
Kids Zone, retail vendors and entertain-
Celebrate in Kingwood with live music,
Food And Wine Festival
ment for all. www.beyondthepints.com
craft and food booths. Plenty of activities
The Houston World Food & Wine
for children – come out and enjoy the
Festival celebrates food, drink, music
fireworks! www.kingwood.com
and dance from around the world. The
www.towncenterevents.com
festival has a globe-trotting theme that
JUNE Wine & Food Week in The Woodlands One of America’s largest and most
invites attendees to try out a new variety
comprehensive wine and food events.
Houston World Series Of Dog Shows
This festival features celebrity chefs,
The Annual Houston World Series of
more than 500 wines, 40+ events and
Dog Shows by the American Kennel
tastings from 50 restaurants. Join more
Club is one of the finest and largest
than 10,000 food and wine fans as The
indoor dog shows in the world that
Woodlands uncorks this event. www.
attracts more than 40,000 spectators,
wineandfoodweek.com
participants and vendors.
Montgomery Wine and Music Fest
houstondogshows.com
Event to be held in the streets of Historic
Texas Music Festival Each year, the Texas Music Festival provides close to 100 young professional
AUGUST
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
Montgomery. Discover Texas Wines, Texas Food, Texas Beer, and Great
musicians with a challenging musical
Houston International Jazz Festival
Texas Music!
environment in which to develop skills
The Houston International Jazz Festival
www.experiencemontgomery.com
in orchestral, chamber music, and solo
showcases Jazz, Rhythm and Blues,
performance. Lucky participants range
Soul and Latin Fusion. More than a
in age from junior high to adult and
dozen artists from around the world
specialize in a variety of areas. Each
will be featured.
institute is led by Moores and Shep-
www.jazzeducation.org
herd Schools of Music faculty, expert
Texas Renaissance Festival Plantersville - Based on travel-worthiness, chance to broaden horizons and the ability to introduce people to try new things and connect with others, the Texas
performers and teachers from Houston
Montgomery County Agricultural Fair
Renaissance Festival has been voted the
and throughout the world. www.uh.edu
Since 1945, Montgomery County has
best cultural festival in the country by
celebrated its agricultural traditions with
USA Today and 10Best. Enjoy magi-
this popular event. Come for toe-tapping
cians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours,
Freedom Over Texas
entertainment and feel good about
comedians, food, arts and crafts that all
Located in the newly renovated Eleanor
helping with community scholarships.
celebrate life in the 16th Century.
Tinsley Park on Buffalo Bayou, Freedom
www.mcagfair.com
www.texrenfest.com
JULY
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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE
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2020
Longhorn Rod Run
soft fall weather and a taste of wine.
by celebrating all things Houston,
Antique cars compete in various cate-
Stroll main street as you enjoy
including a salute to the world-acclaimed
gories for prizes in Old Town Spring.
gourmet foods and creative arts in
Texas Medical Center. The Fun begins
Stroll the streets and view these beautiful
painting, photography, clothing, jewelry
at 9am when the downtown streets come
vintage automobiles.
and crafts by talented artist.
alive with zesty marching bands, imagi-
www.oldtownspring.com
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER Home For The Holidays
native floats and colorful balloons. Bring the family. Annual Home For The Holidays
Petfest – Old Town Spring
The local shops and businesses come alive
PetFest is a weekend event dedicated to
with the Spirit of the Season, offering a
finding homes for animals in shelters and
variety of local, unique holiday gift ideas
rescue groups. It’s a fun-filled festival of
and treasures. Holiday-makers stroll the
entertainment and education that raises
winding paths, enjoy the thousands of
money, volunteers and foster homes.
twinkling lights, hot chocolate and other
Bring your pet!
holiday lights and a visit with Santa.
www.petfestoldtownspring.com
www.oldtownspring.com
Bridgeland Annual Howloween Fest
Houston Galleria -
Watch the Canine Frisbee Disc Club,
Uptown Holiday Lighting
Splash Dogs and the popular doggie
The annual holiday tradition flips the
Children’s Festival. Entertainment
fashion show. Enjoy the many crowd-
switch on a half-million twinkling lights
spans from local community perfor-
and-canine approved activities. You and
along with music, holiday characters, and
mances to awarding-winning children’s
your pet will have a dog-gone good time.
a special appearance by Santa. Fireworks
performers, meaning you are sure to
www.bridgeland.com
grand finale. www.uptownhouston.com
enjoy the show!
Creekfest
Nutcracker Market
CreekFest is a one-day festival held in
The Houston Ballet’s major fundraiser,
northwest Houston to celebrate the
the Nutcracker Market is a shopping
arts and outdoors in the Cypress Creek
wonderland. This year’s market will
community. Highlights include a 5k fun
feature more than 325 national and inter-
run, live music, a marketplace, local
national merchants carefully selected for
artists, tasty food and much more.
their unique offerings. Look for gourmet
www.creekfesthouston.com
food, home décor, garden accessories,
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 Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s 20th Annual
www.woodlandscenter.org
clothing, novelties and the perfect gift.
DECEMBER Jingle Bell Run Join Towne Lake for a family-friendly and festive Jingle Bell Run! The race will begin at 8:00 am and start at The New Boardwalk. Pre-race festivities begin at 7:00 am and include a DJ, Christmas
www.houstonballet.org
music, bouncy houses, hot chocolate,
October is Texas Wine Month and Old
H-E-B Holiday Parade
All racers will receive jingle bells for their
Town Spring with over 150 quaint
The Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day
shoes and a red long-sleeved t-shirt.
shops is the perfect place to enjoy the
Parade will welcome the holiday season
www.townelaketexas.com
Autumn Art and Wine Festival Old Town Spring
face painting, and pictures with Santa.
DECEMBER: CHRISTMAS IN CYPRESS www.gracesymphony.org Grace Symphony Orchestra is a unique performance ensemble that incorporates classical music, drama, dance and art into performances with an emphasis on inspiring a glorifying response to God. Join them for a heart-warming night of sing-a longs of Christmas favorites. Not to be missed! Benefits Cypress Assistance Ministries. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM
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B A N K S/ C R E DIT U N IO N S
Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union....................................................................................................................................................... 73
B UI L D ER S - N E W H O M E S LGI Homes - Terrata Homes........................................................................................................................................................... 9
E D UC A T I O N Cy-Fair ISD...................................................................................................................................................................................... 34 Cypress Christian School.............................................................................................................................................................. 39 Fusion Academy........................................................................................................................................................................... 41 Houston Christian High School.................................................................................................................................................... 42 The John Cooper School............................................................................................................................................................. 43 Klein ISD.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 35 Lone Star College................................................................................................................................................................... 45, 47 Magnolia ISD................................................................................................................................................................................. 37 Tomball ISD.................................................................................................................................................................................... 38 The Woodlands Preparatory International School.................................................................................................................... 44
E N T ER TA I NM E N T & R E CR E A T IO N Houston Rockets........................................................................................................................................................................... 81 Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Galveston............................................................................................................................................ 1 The Woodlands Country Club..................................................................................................................................................... 83
F OR T HE H O M E Floors and Beyond........................................................................................................................................................................ 13
F OOD & B E VE R A G E Real Ale Brewing Co....................................................................................................................................................................... 3 San Luis Spirits Distilling Co. LLC........................................................................................................................ Inside Back Cover
HEA L T HC A R E HCA Houston Healthcare®.......................................................................................................................................... Back Cover Texas Children’s Hospital®................................................................................................................................ Inside Front Cover
HOTEL S Hotel Alessandra........................................................................................................................................................................... 15
I N SUR A N C E The Lipton Agency........................................................................................................................................................................ 21
R E A L E STA T E A G E N T S / B R O KE R A G ES HAR.com........................................................................................................................................................................................ 53 RE/MAX Vintage........................................................................................................................................................................... 29
UTI L I TI E S & S E R VICE S Consolidated Communications ................................................................................................................................................. 59
To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com
Care has a new name in Northwest Houston.
Northwest Houston family includes: HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe
At our hospitals, we care like family. As a patient, you can expect high-quality
HCAhoustonhealthcare.com/conroe
care and a clinical team committed to your health, for all your needs.
936.539.1111
In addition, the hospitals within the HCA Houston Healthcare network will
HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest
continue to accept the same insurance plans.
Care. That’s why we’re here. Our goal is to provide exceptional care to every patient at every hospital. “Care. That’s why we’re here.” represents our commitment to patientcentered care through our communities, convenient and comprehensive care access points, industry-shaping advances and best practices, and collaboration with physicians and nursing.
HCAhoustonhealthcare.com/northwest 281.440.1000
HCA Houston Healthcare Tomball HCAhoustonhealthcare.com/tomball 281.401.7500
Learn more about our commitment to care. For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit HCAhoustonhealthcare.com NW-19-005_11.14.19