The Importance of Dental Health for the Whole Family
Kelly Thomas
DIRECTOR
Layna
CONTENT
Mike
Fountainwood at Lake Houston: Where Vibrant Senior Living Meets Community Care
Kelly Thomas Kelly Thomas
National Food Bank Day: A Call to End Hunger in Our Community
Hunger in America: Food Insecurity
Family
The Village Centers 2024 Gala: There’s No Place Like The Village
Claire Brown
Celebrating Grandparents Day
Kelly Thomas
Kingwood Women’s Club Presents: A Sweet Shopping Experience September Events Calendar
Kingwood Women’s Club
Kelly Thomas
DIRECTOR
Taylor Netek
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Kelly Thomas/Designed by Kelly
PHOTOGRAPHER
Visibly Illustrated Photography and Videography
Our orthopedic and sports medicine specialists can help keep your body in motion.
Whether you’re suffering from simple aches and pains or recovering from a complex injury, our board-certified specialists develop treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. From diagnosis and treatment through physical therapy and rehabilitation, we have the expertise to get you back on your feet and keep you moving.
Schedule an appointment:
houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics 713.790.3333
Estate Planning When Beneficiaries are Minors
Minors (those persons under the age of 18 in Texas) generally cannot inherit or receive property of a loved one directly. Moreover, a surviving parent(s) typically cannot collect property or assets on behalf of the minor. Thus, without proper planning, getting assets to minors after the death of a loved one can lead to lengthy delays and avoidable legal fees.
The situations where we typically see this happen: (1) where a minor is designated as an outright beneficiary on a bank and/or other financial account; (2) where a parent, with minor children, dies without having a will or trust in place; and (3) where a grandparent, with minor grandchildren of a deceased child, dies without having a will or trust in place.
In these situations, a surviving parent or relative is often required to petition the court to either (1) place the funds into the registry of the court until the child reaches the age of 18 (where the funds typically remain inaccessible until the minor reaches age 18), (2) petition to become appointed guardian of the minor’s estate, which is expensive and requires yearly reporting to the courts (and usually more legal fees), or (3) petition the court to establish a management trust appointing a bank or financial institution to serve as trustee of the trust.
(1) UTMA Custodial Designation – if you want to name a minor as a beneficiary on a bank or other financial account, you can designate an adult to serve as custodian under UTMA (the Uniform Transfer to Minors Act) for the benefit of the minor. You can even nominate back-up custodians in the event the adult you name predeceases you.
(2) Last Will and Testament – you can either make an UTMA custodial designation within your Will or provide that a testamentary trust (one that is created out of your Last Will and Testament) be created for any minors who might receive property from your Estate. Neither of these additions to a Will is complex nor must you be wealthy for these cost-effective solutions – they are typically standard provisions in a well-crafted Will.
(3) Living Trust – you can establish a living trust that holds some or all of your assets while you are alive and which provides for the establishment of an irrevocable trust for minor beneficiaries upon your death.
There is no hard and fast rule about which option is best. It often depends on the value of the property/assets to be passed on to the minor, the ability of the minor’s relatives to manage the property/assets, and your personal preferences for how the property is managed for the minor. As always, it is often well worth talking through your particular situation with an attorney.
The information provided in this article is general and not designed or intended to be exhaustive or case specific, and it should not be considered or used as legal advice. If you have questions regarding this article or other matters, contact Hubbard & Rotthier, Attorneys at Law at 281-358-7035. You can also visit their website at www. hubbardrotthierlaw.com.
AREAS OF PRACTICE:
Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning
Probate & Estate Administration
Powers of Attorney Guardianships
Real Estate Transactions Business Matters
Hubbard & Rotthier can help you with your estate planning needs, whether it is developing a comprehensive plan or simply addressing an immediate need.
1525 Lakeville Drive, Suite 133 Kingwood, TX 77339
If you’re planning to retire in a few years, are you looking forward to it? Or are you somewhat apprehensive? Are you asking yourself: “What sort of retirement can I afford?”
It’s a good question — because the answer can make a big difference in your ability to enjoy life as a retiree.
And retirement can indeed be enjoyable, exciting and fun. Consider this from a recent survey by Edward Jones and AgeWave: A majority of respondents said retirement should be looked at as a whole new chapter of life, and not just a time for rest and relaxation. In other words, people are viewing retirement as a chance for new experiences and new opportunities, rather than a time to simply wind down. But if you’re going to make the most of your retirement — which could last two or even three decades — you need to be financially prepared.
This preparation can involve many steps, but here are some of the key ones:
• Decide what your retirement lifestyle will look like. How you choose to spend your retirement years can make a big difference in the financial resources you’ll need. For example, if you plan on traveling the world, you might need more income than if you were to stay close to home and pursue your hobbies. If you can envision your retirement lifestyle and estimate how much money you’ll need to support it, you can help reduce some of the uncertainties you might face once you do retire.
• Review your income sources. During retirement, you’ll likely need to draw on all your income sources, so it’s a good idea to know what you’ll have available, such as your IRA, 401(k) and other investment accounts. You’ll also need to decide when to take Social Security — if you wait until your full retirement age (probably between 66 and 67), you’ll get much larger monthly benefits than if you started taking them at 62. And here’s another variable: earned income. Even if you’ve retired from your career, you might, if you desire, use your acquired skills in a consulting or part-time position. The more you can earn, the less you may have to withdraw from your investment accounts and the better position you’ll be in to delay taking Social Security.
• Consider adjusting your investment portfolio. For most of your working years, you may have invested mostly for growth — to increase your assets as much as possible. But growthoriented investments are also, by nature, riskier, so when you retire, you should review your portfolio to determine whether you need to move it toward a more conservative position. Also, more conservative investments may provide more current income in the form of interest payments. However, even in retirement, you may need some investments with growth potential if you want to keep ahead of inflation.
Retirement is certainly a major milestone in your life — and adjusting to it can take some time. But there will be much less to fear — and much more to enjoy — if you’ve done what you can to prepare yourself financially.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Be Proactive to Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes
Millions of Americans are at risk for life-threatening cardiovascular events due to high cholesterol, a condition nearly everyone has heard of yet just a fraction fully understand. In fact, many don’t realize they have high levels of harmful cholesterol until they experience a heart attack or stroke.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 71 million adults in the United States have high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol. Of these, nearly 50 million Americans do not have LDL cholesterol levels under control and are at higher risk for cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke.
Protecting yourself and your loved ones from the effects of high LDL cholesterol starts by arming yourself with key information.
What is High LDL Cholesterol?
“Your body needs cholesterol – a waxy, fat-like substance – to work properly,” said Stephen Pinkosky, PhD, vice president, drug discovery and early development at Esperion. “However, having too much LDL cholesterol can lead to blockages in your arteries. Often impacted by both lifestyle choices and genetics, it’s important to maintain an LDL cholesterol level recommended by your health care provider.”
What are the Risks of High LDL Cholesterol?
“It’s often not until there may be a large blockage of the artery that you notice something is wrong, such as chest pain, pain in the arms or jaw, nausea, sweating, shortness of breath or weakness,” Pinkosky said. “These symptoms can occur when blood supply to the heart or brain is being slowed or blocked.”
These blockages, which may not have previously caused symptoms, can rupture and cause major problems, including heart attack or stroke. According to the American Heart Association, the first sign of elevated LDL cholesterol may be a deadly cardiovascular event for some people.
According to the World Health Organization, elevated LDL cholesterol causes more deaths than all forms of cancer combined and accounts for around 1 in 3 deaths in the U.S. and Europe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates heart disease deaths will increase 25% by 2030.
What Can People Do to Get Cholesterol in Check?
One of the best ways to take care of your health is to be proactive. Even if you’re feeling fine, it’s a good idea to get your LDL cholesterol levels checked and discuss the results with your health care provider to determine the best treatment option for you, if needed. Your care team will consider your LDL cholesterol level, along with any
other factors that make a heart attack or need for a heart procedure more likely to occur, such as your age, sex, family history (genetics), presence of diabetes or high blood pressure and lifestyle (like whether or not you smoke and your diet).
For those with high LDL cholesterol, there are options to get your level under control. Studies show reducing LDL-C levels with certain cholesterol lowering medications may reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events.
Consult your health care provider if you are unsure of your LDL cholesterol level or want to discuss options to lower your level. To learn more about high LDL cholesterol risks and management, visit cardiosmart.org.
COMPASSIONATE CARE
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock. Editorial by Family Features.
The Importance of Dental Health for the Whole Family
Dental health is more than just a bright smile; it’s a critical component of overall well-being for every member of the family, from toddlers to grandparents. The mouth is a gateway to the body, and maintaining it can prevent a host of health issues that go far beyond cavities. By prioritizing regular dental care, families can enjoy not only healthier teeth but also improved physical health, self-esteem, and quality of life.
Good dental health is a family affair. When everyone is committed to maintaining their teeth and gums, it sets a positive example and creates a supportive environment that encourages healthy habits.
Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining oral health. The ADA recommends that both children and adults visit the dentist at least twice a year for a routine check-up and cleaning. However, those with specific dental issues, such as gum disease, or certain medical conditions, may need to visit more frequently.
These biannual appointments are crucial because they allow dentists to catch problems early when they are easier and less expensive to treat. During these visits, dentists can remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing might miss, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Tips for Taking Children to the Dentist
Taking children to the dentist can be a challenge, but it’s vital to start them on the right path to oral health early. The ADA recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits help familiarize children with the dental environment and allow the dentist to monitor their oral development.
Here are some tips to make your child’s dental visits smoother:
Start Early: The earlier you start, the better. Early visits help children get used to the dentist and can prevent the fear that sometimes develops when dental visits are delayed.
Be Positive: Children often mirror their parents’ attitudes. If you are positive and upbeat about dental visits, your child is more likely to be as well.
Educate Through Play: Use books, videos, or role-playing games to help children understand what to expect. Let them play dentist with their toys, examining teeth and practicing good oral hygiene habits. Choose a Pediatric Dentist: Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children and are trained to handle their fears and anxieties. Their offices are usually more child-friendly, with decorations and activities that make kids feel comfortable. Reward Good Behavior: Consider offering a small reward for a successful visit, such as a sticker or a fun activity afterward. This positive reinforcement can make future visits easier.
While dental care for children is critical, it’s equally important for adults and seniors. For adults, maintaining oral health can prevent the progression of gum disease, which affects nearly half of all adults over 30 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss and has been linked to other health problems, including heart disease and diabetes.
For seniors, dental health can be particularly challenging due to issues like dry mouth, medications, and mobility problems that make oral hygiene difficult. Regular dental visits are crucial for detecting and managing these issues. Dentures and dental implants require care and check-ups to ensure they fit properly and remain in good condition.
Community programs that promote dental health can make a significant difference, especially in underserved areas. Fluoride treatments, school-based dental screenings, and public health campaigns can help ensure that all families have access to the care they need. Supporting these programs, whether through participation or advocacy, is a way to contribute to the overall health of the community.
Dental health is an integral part of overall wellness for every member of the family. By prioritizing regular dental visits, fostering good oral hygiene habits, and supporting community dental health initiatives, families can prevent disease, avoid costly treatments, and ensure that everyone enjoys a lifetime of healthy smiles. Remember, the foundation of good dental health is built at home, with the entire family working together to make oral care a priority.
Start early, stay consistent, and your family will be on the path to bright smiles and better health for years to come.
September 2024 Monthly Events
HOLOCAUST GARDEN OF HOPE TOURS
Every Sunday In September
5 PM - 7 PM
Kings Harbor
1660 W. Lake Houston Pkwy, Kingwood
TASTE OF THE TOWN LAKE HOUSTON
Thursday, September 5, 2024
5 PM - 8 PM
Humble Civic Center
8233 Will Clayton Pkwy., Humble
HUMBLE AREA RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION MEETING
Monday, September 9, 2024
5 PM - 8 PM
Instructional Support Center
4810 Magnolia Cove Kingwood 77345
LAKE HOUSTON GARDENERS MONTHLY MEETING
Monday, September 9, 2024
6:30 PM
Good Shepherd Episcopal Church
2929 Woodland Hills, Kingwood 77339
HUMBLE NOON LIONS CLUB
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
12 PM - 1 PM
Lake Houston Family YMCA
2420 Lake Houston Pkwy. 77339
SUICIDE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION WALK
Thursday, September 12, 2024
6 PM - 8 PM
Turner Stadium
1700 Wilson Rd. Humble 77396
LAKE HOUSTON LADIES CLUB LUNCHEON
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
10 AM - 1 PM
The Bridge at Lake Houston 1105 South Rd, Huffman 77336
Randall Reed Stadium Community Room 23160 Valley Ranch Pkwy New Caney, TX 77357
CHICKS AND HOGS BBQ COOK-OFF & BREW-FEST
October 4-5, 2024
A.V. “Bull” Sallas Park 21675 McCleskey Rd. New Caney 77357
For more information contact maddie@FPLH.ORG
Interested in having your event listed on our Monthly Events page? Contact Layna Netek, Director of Sales and Marketing at lnetek@forestimage.com. Events are included as space allows.
MONTHLY
SPECIAL EVENTS
THURSDAYS IN SEPTEMBER
Kingwood Farmers Market
3 PM - 7 PM Rain or Shine
Kingwood Town Center 8 N. Main St, Kingwood
No Sunday Farmers Market kwdfarmersmarket.com
THURSDAYS IN SEPTEMBER
Rosati’s Karaoke Night
8 PM - 12 PM
Rosati’s Pizza 25661 US-59 North, Kingwood
FRIDAYS IN SEPTEMBER
Valley Ranch Cruise-In 6:30 PM-11PM
Valley Ranch Town Center 22296 Market Place Dr., New Caney
WEEKLY MEETINGS
Kingwood Rotary
Mondays 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Union Kitchen 23918 Hwy 59, Kingwood
Rotary Club at Lake Houston Area
Wednesdays 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM
Lake Houston Family YMCA 2420 W. Lake Houston Pkwy, Kingwood
Discover Your Perfect Home at Fountainwood at Lake Houston: Northeast Houston’s Premier Resort-Style Luxury Senior Living Community
Nestled in the serene surroundings of Atascocita, Texas, Fountainwood at Lake Houston is more than just a senior living community; it’s a vibrant, welcoming home where residents can truly thrive. Whether you’re seeking independent living, assisted living, or memory care, Fountainwood offers a lifestyle that combines comfort, care, and community. The picturesque setting, coupled with an array of amenities, creates a perfect environment for seniors looking to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
From the moment you step onto the grounds of Fountainwood, you’ll be struck by the sense of warmth and hospitality that permeates the community. The beautifully appointed apartments, lush landscapes, and tranquil walking paths invite you to slow down and savor each day. Residents are greeted by a dedicated team of caring professionals who go above and beyond to make everyone feel at home. This is a place where friendships are formed over shared meals, and new interests are discovered through engaging activities.
For those who value independence, Fountainwood’s independent living options are designed to offer a carefree lifestyle. Imagine waking up each morning with the freedom to plan your day as you wish. Whether it’s taking a trip with friends, exploring a new hobby, or
volunteering in the community, Fountainwood provides the support you need to focus on what matters most to you. The spacious one and two bedroom apartments come with all the modern conveniences you could want, including individual climate control, weekly housekeeping, and laundry services. You’ll have more time to enjoy life, knowing that the details are taken care of.
But what truly sets Fountainwood apart is the sense of community. Here, neighbors quickly become friends, and there’s always something to do, whether it’s a fitness class in the well-equipped gym, a game of billiards in the activity room, or a swim in the pool. The resident-inspired social calendar is packed with leisure, educational, and social activities tailored to a wide range of interests. The staff at Fountainwood take pride in creating an environment where residents can live vibrant, fulfilling lives.
For those who need a bit more assistance, Fountainwood’s assisted living program offers personalized care tailored to each resident’s needs. Whether it’s helping with daily tasks like dressing and bathing, or managing medication, the compassionate staff is there to support residents while encouraging them to maintain as much independence as possible. The goal is to provide care that allows residents to feel confident and empowered, knowing that help is always nearby.
The community’s memory care program, Oasis Memory Care, is another standout feature. Designed specifically for residents living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, this program emphasizes a person-centered approach that respects the individuality of each resident. The philosophy behind Oasis Memory Care is simple yet profound: residents are viewed as whole people first, not defined by their disease. This approach ensures that each person’s abilities and strengths are celebrated, and their dignity is preserved.
Respite care is also available at Fountainwood, offering temporary stays for seniors who need support following a hospital visit or for caregivers who need a break. It’s an ideal way to experience all that Fountainwood has to offer before making a long-term decision. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or simply looking to try out the community, respite care provides the perfect introduction to the Fountainwood lifestyle.
Dining at Fountainwood is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Residents can enjoy a variety of dining venues, each designed to cater to different tastes and occasions. Whether it’s a casual coffee at the Fountainwood Coffee Bar & Bistro, a relaxing glass of wine at the Cork Wine Bar & Veranda, or a gourmet meal at the Lake Houston Terrace Dining Room, the focus is on quality, freshness, and hospitality. The community also offers a private dining room for family gatherings, ensuring that special moments can be celebrated together.
At Fountainwood, residents are encouraged to fill their days with activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. The campus offers something for everyone, from quiet moments in the library to lively social events and everything in between. The outdoor patios and walking paths provide the perfect setting for enjoying the beauty of nature, while the entertainment room and lounges offer comfortable spaces to relax and unwind. For those who enjoy staying active, the fitness center and pool are popular spots for exercise and recreation.
Fountainwood at Lake Houston is more than just a place to live; it’s a place to call home. The community’s commitment to providing exceptional care and a vibrant lifestyle shines through in everything they do. Whether you’re an active senior looking for independent living or someone in need of a bit more support, Fountainwood offers a range of options to meet your needs. And with its welcoming atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and dedicated staff, it’s no wonder so many people have found their forever home here.
So, if you or a loved one are considering a move to senior living, come visit Fountainwood at Lake Houston. Experience the warmth, the care, and the community for yourself. You just might find that this is the place you’ve been looking for—a place where you can truly live life to the fullest. Welcome home to Fountainwood at Lake Houston, where every day is an opportunity to thrive.
Fountainwood at Lake Houston
17990 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Atascocita, TX 77346
fountainwoodatlakehouston.com
National Food Bank Day: A Call to End Hunger in Our Communities
The scale of food insecurity in the United States is staggering. According to Feeding America, one of the largest hunger-relief organizations in the country, more than 34 million people, including 9 million children, are food insecure. This means that they lack consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. Food banks serve as a vital lifeline for these individuals, ensuring that they have access to nutritious meals even during difficult times.
Every year, on the first Friday of September, communities across the United States come together to observe National Food Bank Day. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against hunger and the critical role that food banks play in feeding those in need. As we mark this day, we are encouraged to commit to the cause that believes no one should go to bed hungry.
The first food bank in the United States was established in 1967 by John van Hengel in Phoenix, Arizona. Van Hengel, a retired businessman, was volunteering at a soup kitchen when he learned about the vast amounts of food that went to waste from grocery stores, restaurants, and farms. Determined to find a solution, he started collecting surplus food and distributing it to those in need. His initiative laid the foundation for what would become a nationwide network of food banks, providing hope and sustenance to millions of Americans.
Today, the United States is home to more than 200 food banks, each working tirelessly to combat hunger in their communities. These food banks are part of a larger network that includes over 60,000 food pantries and meal programs across the country. Together, they provide billions of meals annually to individuals and families who might otherwise go hungry.
Food banks play a crucial role in supporting local families by providing them with the resources they need to thrive. These organizations collect and distribute food to those who need it most, partnering with grocery stores, farms, restaurants, and other donors to rescue surplus food that would otherwise go to waste. By leveraging these partnerships, food banks can offer a wide variety of fresh produce, dairy products, meat, and non-perishable items to their clients.
In addition to providing food, many food banks offer programs designed to address the root causes of hunger.
These programs may include nutrition education, job training, financial literacy courses, and assistance with accessing public benefits like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). By offering a holistic approach to hunger relief, food banks empower families to achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency.
As we observe National Food Bank Day this September, let’s remember that hunger is a problem we can solve—if we work together. By supporting our local food banks and addressing the root causes of food insecurity, we can ensure that no one in our community has to go to bed hungry. Let’s make a commitment today to fight hunger and build a brighter future for all.
To help fight food insecurity in America, Whirlpool Corp., in collaboration with meal kit company HelloFresh and logistics firm TQL, is expanding the “Feel Good Fridge” program to an additional 13 U.S. markets. Launched in 2021, the program provides refurbished refrigerators to food pantries and nonprofit organizations across the county to deliver free, fresh food for anyone in need with a target of placing 3,000 refrigerators by 2030. Find more information at whirlpoolcorp.com/feel-goodfridge.these individuals, ensuring that they have access to nutritious meals even during difficult times. Image by Family Features.
PROCEEDS FROM THIS EVENT WILL BENEFIT THE NEEDY PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY OF 11 ZIP CODES
Location
RANDALL REED STADIUM COMMUNITY ROOM
23160 VALLEY RANCH PKWY. NEW CANEY, TX 77357
MISSION STAR SPONSORS: MISSION NORTHEAST INVITES YOU TO OUR
Event Date
MONDAY, SEP 30, 2024
LUNCH PROVIDED BY: AMEDEO'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Information
CHECK-IN & SILENT AUCTION BEGIN AT 11 AM WITH EMCEES JJ MOSES AND MARK LINABURY
SPONSOR:
VIP SPONSORS:
Golden Jean Wallace
The Village Centers 2024 Gala: There’s No Place Like The Village J
oin The Village Centers for the 2024 “There’s No Place Like The Village” Gala, which will be held on Saturday, October 19th from 6-10 PM at Hidden Pines | Lake Houston, formerly The Overlook in Atascocita.
The event, co-chaired by Jay and Sally Mincks, will honor Peter W. Mantell, a longtime champion of The Village Centers. Throughout his accomplished career as a leader in business development, Peter has also demonstrated an unfaltering dedication to community service and engagement, including many years of board service to The Village and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those with special needs.
Proceeds from the gala will benefit The Village Centers’ mission to enhance the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and support them in reaching their full potential.
The “There’s No Place Like The Village” Gala will feature fantastic food by The Hometown Chef at the newly renovated Hidden Pines venue and include silent and live auctions offering many coveted items including a vacation stay at Orange Beach and a painting by renowned artist Kathy Womack.
Support this year’s gala, The Village’s largest fundraiser of the year, and positively impact the lives of adults with disabilities by underwriting the programs that provide daily opportunities for community inclusion, job training, socialization, and more.
Details on sponsorships and tickets are available at www.thevillagecenters. org/2024gala.
Questions? Please contact Claire Brown at cbrown@thevillagecenters.org.
Celebrating Grandparents Day
Grandparents Day is an opportunity to express gratitude and love for the older generations. The influence of grandparents extends far beyond individual families. According to AARP, grandparents contribute over $70 billion annually to the U.S. economy through spending on grandchildren. This spending includes everything from school supplies to vacations, highlighting the significant economic role they play.
Moreover, the bond between grandparents and grandchildren has been shown to provide emotional stability, resilience, and a sense of belonging. A study by Boston College found that emotionally close ties between grandparents and grandchildren reduced depressive symptoms in both groups, demonstrating the profound impact these relationships have on mental health.
Grandparents Day is more than just a holiday; it is a celebration of the enduring connection between generations. Whether through storytelling, caregiving, or simply offering a listening ear, grandparents play a vital role in nurturing and supporting their families. As we celebrate this special day, let us remember the countless ways grandparents enrich our lives and ensure that their wisdom, love, and legacy continue to be cherished for generations to come.
There are many meaningful ways to celebrate this day:
Family Gatherings: Organizing a family meal or picnic is a wonderful way to bring everyone together. Grandparents can share stories from their past, creating a bridge between generations and fostering a sense of family history.
Creative Projects: Encourage children to create homemade cards, drawings, or crafts for their grandparents. Personalized gifts, such as a photo album filled with memories or a family tree, can be cherished for years to come.
Storytelling Sessions: Grandparents often have a wealth of stories to share. Hosting a storytelling session where grandparents recount their experiences can be both entertaining and educational for younger family members.
Acts of Service: For those whose grandparents are in nursing homes or live far away, consider acts of service like volunteering at a local senior center or donating to organizations that support the elderly.
Virtual Celebrations: In our increasingly digital world, virtual celebrations are a great way to connect with grandparents who live far away. Video calls, digital photo albums, or even a virtual game night can make the day special, even from a distance.
Honoring Late Grandparents: For those whose grandparents have passed away, Grandparents Day can be a time for reflection. Lighting a candle, sharing stories, or visiting their resting place can be a meaningful way to honor their memory.
Kingwood Women’s Club Presents: A Sweet Shopping Experience
Are you craving something extra sweet this holiday season? Then Kingwood Women’s Club will surely satisfy your sweet tooth with their annual Holiday Marketplace scheduled for October 28th and 29th at the Humble Civic Center.
This year, A Sweet Shopping Experience will offer even more with a new look and new Vendors. This year marks the 26th year for Kingwood Women’s Club annual Holiday Marketplace. This highly anticipated and fun-filled event features wine, food and a large variety of shopping choices while raising money for the community’s local charities.
Back by popular demand will be their Parade of Fashions featuring the latest looks from Vendors at the Marketplace as well as the return of their Bistro Café for coffee and lite bites while shopping.
The fun will begin on Monday evening with their Preview Party from 6:00pm until 9:00pm. Wine, Beer and appetizers add to the excitement of shopping and seeing friends. Tuesday, doors will open at 9:00am. Vendor’s fashions will be featured throughout the day highlighting the newest look for fall and holiday parties.
Fabulous Silent Auction and Raffle prizes will tempt you to purchase tickets for a chance to win one or more of the many items that will be available. Monday, October 28th, Preview Party Tickets are $40.00 advance purchase only. Ticket sales will benefit Program Mammogram. General Admission tickets for Tuesday, October 29th are $10.00 in advance and $15.00 at the door. All proceeds benefit local charities.
Tickets may be purchased at Ava Wray Boutique, Pretty Little Things, Cyrese & Company and Ace Hardware in both Kingwood and Atascocita. See you there!
It’s Fall Y’all!!
all is finally here, y’all! It’s time for pumpkin spice everything you make its grand return! While we might not be pulling out our sweaters just yet or watching the leaves turn bright red and gold here in Houston, there’s still plenty to celebrate. From pumpkin patches to porch decor, let’s dive into how we can make the most of this Texas-style fall. The first day of fall, known as the autumnal equinox, is when day and night are nearly equal in length. This year, it falls on September 23rd, officially kicking off the season of football, festivals, and pumpkin-spice everything!
Fun Fall Facts to Leaf You Smiling
Did you know that fall is also known as “harvest season”? That’s why we see so many festivals and fairs this time of year. People have been celebrating the bounty of the season for centuries, and it’s a tradition we happily carry on today. Here are a few more fun facts to impress your friends:
Pumpkins are technically a fruit. Yep, that jack-o’-lantern you’re carving is in the same botanical category as a watermelon!
Squirrels get extra busy. Those cute critters are hard at work gathering and storing food for the winter. They might even forget where they buried some of their stash, leading to new trees sprouting up next spring!
Fall is a season bursting with opportunities for family fun, there’s something for everyone:
Visit a Pumpkin Patch: Find the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating your porch. Make it a family competition to see who can find the roundest, tallest, or wackiest-looking pumpkin.
Have a Fall Craft Day: Gather some leaves, pinecones, and acorns from the yard and get creative. From homemade wreaths to painted pumpkins, the possibilities are endless!
Bake Together: Nothing says fall like the smell of cinnamon and apples baking in the oven. Try making an apple pie, pumpkin bread, or some spiced cookies with the kids.
Host a Backyard BBQ: Who says fall can’t be celebrated outdoors? Fire up the grill, make some s’mores, and enjoy the cooler evenings with friends and family.
Host a Family Movie Night: Snuggle up with blankets, popcorn, and some classic fall movies. Think “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” or a cozy family-friendly Halloween flick.
Pumpkins and Decor: Gourd-geous Ideas
Pumpkins aren’t just for pies and jack-o’-lanterns. They’re the ultimate fall decoration! Line your porch with a mix of traditional orange pumpkins, white “ghost” pumpkins, and even some funky gourds for a stylish autumn display. Pair them with mums, hay bales, and a scarecrow or two, and you’ll have the most festive house on the block.
Inside, go for a cozy vibe with plaid throws, rustic signs, and candles that remind you of a bakery in fall. Try filling a vase with sunflowers or placing a bowl of fresh Texas-grown apples on your table. And don’t forget to hang a welcoming fall wreath on your door—it’s the perfect way to invite autumn into your home.
So, even if the thermometer still reads 100 degrees, fall is here and ready to be enjoyed! From pumpkin patches to porch decor, there are so many ways to make this season special. Grab your favorite iced coffee (pumpkin spice, of course), and get ready to celebrate everything that makes fall in Houston unique. Happy fall, y’all!
A Grilled Side Dish for Your Next Cookout
Grilling is a great way to feed a crowd, but that doesn’t have to be limited to just the main dish. Fresh veggies like asparagus are a perfect accompaniment to grilled favorites and can be placed on the grates right next to the protein you’re serving to make hosting a cinch and avoid heating up the kitchen. Before your next gathering, visit Culinary.net for more recipe inspiration.
Grilled Asparagus
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
1bundle fresh asparagus
1 package (3-4 ounces) prosciutto
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons butter
Preheat grill to medium heat.
Wash and cut asparagus spears to equal sizes.
Wrap four asparagus spears with prosciutto. Repeat until all asparagus and prosciutto are used, about six bundles. Place in cast-iron skillet or disposable aluminum pan. Cover bundles with garlic powder, onion powder, pepper and butter.
Place skillet or pan on grill. Grill 15 minutes, turning bundles halfway through cooking. Recipe by Family Features.
September 2024 Advertisers Map
1: Brian A. Leatherwood-Edward Jones AAMS® 2273 Northpark Drive, Kingwood 77339
2: Daniel P. Hemberger Edward Jones 2218 Northpark Drive Ste. 110, Kingwood 77339
3: Darst Funeral Home 796 Russell Palmer Road, Kingwood 77339
4: Designed by Kelly Kingwood 77345
5: Diana G. Van Horn-Edward Jones CFP® 20121 West Lake Houston Parkway, Ste. 800 Kingwood 77346
6: Don R Gaddy-Edward Jones AAMS 12230 West Lake Houston Parkway Ste. 185 Humble 77044
7: East Montgomery County Improvement District 22296 Marketplace Dr., New Caney 77357
8: Elite Hospital of Kingwood 23330 US Highway 59 North Kingwood 77339