Conroe, TX August 2023

For Our Kids and Pets

Haley Jamison Realtor®

Neal Hogg Realtor®

Steven Paul Boll Realtor®

Myka Zito Realtor®

Ute Busse Realtor®

Lisa Gregory Founder | Broker | Realtor®

Cheryl VanBebber Realtor®

Kids and Pets, Enjoy Them Both!

Ask what is near and dear to most people’s hearts, and the unsurprising and overwhelmingly most common answer is their children and pets. Few things in life cause us to feel such pure unconditional love. We only need to take the time to appreciate it, but who can take the time in this hurried, unbelievable world? You’ve got to be quick to win the day.

This issue, dedicated to all things kids and pets, offers stories for parents looking for extracurricular activities for their children and obedience from their dogs. We also have information about navigating technology and how to become a mama bear on the rise. We’ve even got stories about kids raising animals for the fair and one about animals, though fascinating and beautiful, that make terrible pets. As the summer marches on, you are bound to find something that piques your interest on our pages.

However, in addition, I’d like to share a little advice.

My daughters are now grown, but no matter how old they get, I will always cherish the time I spend with them. So many of my fondest memories are with them. Often doing the silliest of things in the most mundane moments are what sticks out. Our little wheaten terrier Scooby was there for 16 and a half years of those memories as well. Year after year, he was their best playmate. Across all the miles our little family unit traveled, through all the tennis matches and volleyball games, stories written and charms sculpted, laughter and tears intertwined amongst the littlest things are to form the most significant memories.

I know how tired and weary you get, but take it from a mom who has slogged through the messy front lines of raising a family, and hear me when I say, try to savor every moment, for in a blink, one chapter will close and the next will rush in.

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Alison Kartevold | Alison.Kartevold@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Margie Taylor | margie.taylor@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Morgan Freeman, Melanie Saxton, Gayle Cheatham, Kimberly Sutton, Margie Taylor

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shannon Matlock

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

ALISON KARTEVOLD, PUBLISHER @CONROECITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

1: Waste Connections was the Presenting Sponsor celebrating the 50th Birthday of Meals on Wheels. 2: Beat the Heat Weatherization with Entergy Texas contributing towards Habitat MCTX’s Home Repair Program. 3: Tony Gullo, donates $300,000 for a memorial honoring the Dallas Air Show Victims at MCVMP. 4: The luncheon honoring Notable Woman of Montgomery County included Dr. Ann Snyder, The Woodlands Township. 5: Ladies of our May issue-who do you recognize? 6: Our Notable Woman’s Luncheon, co-sponsored with The Woodlands City Lifestyle, was a hit! 7: Ladies of our May issue enjoy themselves at our Luncheon at 202 Main.

ENTERGY, TEXAS

JOHN LYNCH

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK

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Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @conroecitylifestyle

8: Women leaders in our community gather for pictures after lunch. 9: Our speaker for the luncheon, Rita Santamaria, founder/CEO of Champions School of Real Estate. 10: Did you recognize Kristine Marlow of the Montgomery County Food Bank at our Luncheon? 11: Lyn Hawthorne Howard shares a laugh at our Notable Woman of Montgomery County Luncheon. 12: Judge Kathleen Hamilton joined Conroe City Lifestyle as we honored her and the other woman. 13: We saw Jenny Ibarra Rosales with Kelly Blum of The Woodlands City Lifestyle. 14: Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs joined us from The Woodlands Township Board of Directors for our luncheon.

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Montgomery Grove

Opens Family Friendly Eatery in Montgomery

After operating the food trucks, “Whiches on Wheels” and “Dizzy Pies,” serving pizza and desserts, Mike and Kristen Anderson opened their brick-and-mortar restaurant at 22016 Eva Street in Montgomery recently, serving family-friendly choices of burgers, sandwiches, tacos, pizza, and salads.

Open Tuesday through Sunday, Thursday is cornhole night. Eat inside or outside among the trees where your dog can join you. Women and minority-owned, come for the food but stay for the fun! themontgomerygrove.com

Photography Montgomery Grove

Woodforest Dance Company Offers Dance for Everyone

The newly opened Woodforest Dance Company is located at 859 Pine Market Ave in Woodforest, instructing ages 18 months to adults with a focus on building confidence and strength in youth through movement. Classes include ballet/tap/jazz combo, hip hop, and advanced classes to be on a college dance team. Boys enjoy core strength classes for endurance.

Dance for everyone! WoodforestDance.com

Visit Conroe Hires

Sherry Morgan as Manager

Sherry Morgan has returned to Conroe as the new Manager of Tourism with Conroe’s Convention and Visitors Bureau. Sherry is a Conroe native, serving as Conroe’s CVB Tourism Coordinator from 2012-2017 and recently as Executive Director at Visit Nacogdoches. She is a Certified Tourism Executive via the Texas Tourism Alliance and a Certified Texas Friendly hospitality specialist through Texas AgriLife.

Photography City of Conroe

Photography Woodforest Dance Company

Pierson & Pierson Rebrands as The Pierson Firm

The Pierson Firm celebrates its new name with a party at The Honor Cafe August 11th. Founder Gladys Pierson says it is time to update her company’s image to reflect the services her people provide to long-time and new clients alike. Clients have come to the firm since 1989 for personalized financial guidance for individuals and businesses. Their expertise ranges from basic tax accounting to more in-depth services such as audits and financial statements.

Scan to read more.

City of Conroe Opens Westside Recreation Center

The City of Conroe Parks and Recreation celebrated the Grand Opening of the Westside Recreation Center and Owen Park (previously the Conroe YMCA) on Tuesday, June 20th.

Amenities include:

• Fitness room equipped with free weights and cardio machines

• 2 Racquetball Courts

• Spin Room

• Kidzone

• Gymnasium

Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm, and Saturday, 7:00 am-5:00 pm. Visit the Westside Recreation Center at 10245 Owen Drive, Conroe.

Asian Cafe Open in Downtown Conroe

San Cheng has opened his second restaurant in downtown Conroe located at 330 N. Main in the venue previously occupied by Vernele’s Bakery. The menu specializes in craft coffee and milk tea (boba) with a selection of unique, flavorful food mixing culture and Conroe lifestyle with banh mi, boba, bao, rice bowls, soft shell crab, spicy kofe chicken, and chicken wings.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Conroe

Photography City of Conroe

Photography Kofe Num Pang

local experiences

SHERRY MORGAN

Grab the kids and hit the town for some end of summer fun. Enjoy a few of the local establishments chosen by me, Visit Conroe Manager, Sherry Morgan, of the City of Conroe’s Convention and Visitors Bureau. Often, the town we live in takes on a new life when viewed through the lens of a visitor. Take in the sites around us before the transition back to school. Dress for the weather. Stay hydrated and seek shade as much as possible. Be ready for adventure!

Our Picks for Family-Friendly Fun

VISIT CONROE: Celebrating its 50th anniversary Lake Conroe is available for fishing, a lake-side lunch, kayaking, swimming, or a sunset cruise on the historic Southern Empress.  505 West Davis Street Conroe, TX

VISIT CONROE: Pickleball and Disc Golf are experiencing extreme popularity everywhere. Don’t forget the Aquatic Center with its Family Fun Pool.

300 West Davis St. Conroe, TX

VISIT CONROE: My daughters are avid geocachers and have made memories seeking out treasures. Check out geocaching.com for treasure hunts. Your smart phone is all you need. 300 West Davis St. Conroe, TX

ST. FRANCIS WOLF SANCTUARY: Animal lovers will love St. Francis Wolf Sanctuary to see rescued wolves. 7 Acre Wood and see petting zoo, games, and entertainment. 6731 Pavlock Rd, Navasota, TX 77868

CALICO FRESH MARKET: Take a quick trip to Calico Dairy on League Line Rd to highlight a fresh array of dairy products not often found or experienced. 9950 League Line Road, Conroe, Texas 77304

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Sherry Morgan | @VisitConroe

Sherry Morgan is a native of Conroe who loves to keep the story of Conroe alive for future generations. She previously worked at the Conroe Visitors Bureau as the tourism coordinator and left in 2017 to take the role of executive director at Visit Nacogdoches in East Texas.

She attended Conroe High School and grew up near Downtown Conroe. Sherry loves everything about tourism and is passionate about sharing her community with everyone. She shares places to make memories- as she has done over the years with her two daughters.

The best part of these potential memory makers is the time spent with those we love. For more ideas for fun in Conroe follow visitconroe.com.

The best places and things to do in our area.

DR. GUY BURROWS M. D. is a board-certified neurologist with fellowship training in peripheral nerve disorders and neuromuscular diseases. In 2006, Dr. Burrows established a neuromuscular and peripheral nerve disorder medical practice in Beverly Hills and Palm Springs, California, with hospital affiliations at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs.

For five years prior to opening the Burrows Muscle and Nerve Center, Dr. Burrows M.D. provided neuromuscular and peripheral nerve disorders care and served as the Director of Infusions at Mischer Neuroscience AssociatesThe Woodlands.

WE TREAT THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS AND MORE

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

• Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)

• Guillain-Barre syndrome

• Inflammatory myopathies

• Mitochondria disorders

• Multi-focal motor neuropathy (MMN)

• Muscle disease disorders

• Muscular dystrophy (MD)

• Myasthenia gravis (MG)

• Myopathy/inflammatory myopathy

• Myositis immune-related polyneuropathy

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Polymyositis

• Unexplained numbness and tingling

OFFERING THE FOLLOWING CLINICAL SERVICES:

• EMG Studies/Nerve Conduction Studies

• Neuromuscular and Peripheral Nerve Disorder Evaluations

• Muscle, Nerve and Skin Biopsies

• IVIG and Biologic Infusion Services

• Botox Injections for spasms

For a full spectrum of services and diagnoses, visit our website www.BurrowsMuscleAndNerve.com

ARTICLE BY MORGAN FREEMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

KIDS PREPARE PETS FOR THE FAIR

for those with limited space or HOA restrictions. Rabbits have a lower investment point, you can house them in your garage or backyard, and they make almost no noise.

YOU

NEVER KNOW WHERE THE NEXT CHAMPION WILL COME FROM!

Driving along the manicured streets of most Conroe neighborhoods, you would never guess that the brick facades might be hiding a prize-winning fair operation. This is precisely the case at the Lillard residence. Despite the suburban confines, Morghan Lillard, an incoming junior at Conroe High School, managed to win her first showmanship competition with her rabbits.

At the start of their rabbit-raising journey, Morghan's mother, Amy, remembers asking herself, "How are we going to pull this off?" The family had no experience with the animals. Even finding out that raising rabbits for the Montgomery County Fair required breeding rather than just caretaking was a surprise.

Morghan keeps her rabbits in the backyard in about 100 square feet of space. While she says her favorite part of raising the New Zealand Whites is playing with them, there have been a lot of challenges along the way, from babies being born during the last freeze to adult rabbits who have made a name for themselves as escape artists.

Brian Hayes, executive director of the Montgomery County Fair, recommends rabbits

On the other side of town, just outside the city limits, the Cox family home sits nestled beneath towering trees with bright pastureland surrounding the property. While their setting might be more traditional for agricultural pursuits than the Lillard's, the land doesn't come with experience. When Meredith Cox participated in the scramble program at the fair, no one in the family knew that meant they'd be receiving a certificate for a calf.

Meredith says it has been a learning process aided by much research and the help of mentors and friends in their 4H community. At their calf's first show, the family showed up with one of their own hairbrushes and a Shop-Vac outfitted to serve as a make-shift blower. Melissa, Meredith's mother, says the Shop-Vac didn't work, but they soon found themselves receiving help from other competitors.

Meredith isn't the only Cox who spent the past year learning the ropes of fair competition. Eleven-year-old Madelyn Cox, Meredith's younger sister, tried her hand at raising chickens. She says the work never stops, and, in the beginning, the birds have to be attended to every two to three hours.

Chickens are another animal Hayes recommends for those with limited space, but he notes that living in a neighborhood doesn't necessarily preclude kids from raising larger animals like heifers. Many schools in Montgomery County have space available for kids who would like to raise a cow, or another hoofed animal, that

Morghan Lillard winning first time entry!

doesn't have a place at home. Brian Hayes grew up in a neighborhood and kept his goats and heifers at the school barn.

While all three girls acknowledge the challenges that come along with raising their animals for the fair, each of the girls agrees the rewards are worth the effort. Meredith says learning that she has the willpower to work hard every single day was her favorite part of the experience. Morghan says the friends she has made in FFA is the thing she'll remember from her time as a student.

What was most surprising about the experience? The harmonious answer from all three girls is the amount of poop involved. Madelyn recalls her little sister Myla helping her out by holding a chicken during her competition (the chickens are held upside down) and being hit with projectile poop.

With that full disclosure out of the way, if you want to start your own fair journey with your kids, both families give the same advice: join a local 4H or FFA chapter. There you can find an experienced mentor to help you through the process.

Madelyn Cox raising chickens for competition at the Fair.

Morghan Lillard all smiles at the Montgomery County Fair.

Meredith Cox with her calf.

Kids’ Extracurricular Activities Develop Character

ARTICLE BY MELANIE SAXTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

GEAR UP FOR MUSIC, SPORTS, AND OTHER ACTIVITIES THIS FALL

After-school extracurricular activities allow your child to develop friendships outside of the school realm while increasing confidence, ethics, and good sportsmanship, often working together as a team to accomplish a goal. Montgomery County has options from team sports to music lessons to fill your needs.

Involvement in a league or club can help boys and girls form ethical views about winning, losing, and competition in general. Participation in the arts inspires creative, academic, and social achievement. There's no better time to explore which extracurriculars fit your child's interests.

Football, Cheerleading, Triathlons, and More

Chad Johnson of the North County Football League (NCFL) in Montgomery also serves as Commissioner of the Lone Star Youth Football Alliance (LSYFA). Sports are great for harnessing energy and boosting the skillsets of five to twelve years olds. "They're all from different backgrounds, and when they get in that huddle, they learn to work together." The NCFL also offers cheerleading activities that encourage movement, coordination, and teamwork. northcountyfootball.org

SelecTRI , led by Amie Quinn, has a youth triathlon team for kids ages 6 to 18 and a competitive team for athletes ages 10 to 18. Training is in The Woodlands. "If your child enjoys swimming, biking, and running, our organization is committed to building lifetime athletes," says Amie. "A team atmosphere promotes camaraderie, spirit, and accepting the responsibility

KIDS CORNER | ARTS + CULTURE

North County Football League in Montgomery

Madison Challis of SelectTri The Woodlands

SelecTRI The Woodlands

of working towards individual and team goals." Learn more at SelectTri.org.

There is one young athlete. Madison, who joined SelectTri a year ago after leaving competitive soccer. SelecTri was a very welcoming team from the start as a complete novice to triathlete sports and quickly advanced to the top group with her background in swim team and running clubs. June 11, 2023, almost exactly one year from starting the sport, she attempted her first ever adult triathlon super sprint race at the encouragement of her coach, Aime Quinn.

Madison had the determination to attend all the pre-race meetings, train three times a week, participate in set ups, and to ask questions surrounded by adults attempting the same feat. The hills on this course are nothing like she had ever seen before. The open water swim was something she had ever only experienced one time and the run was on a path blocked off only by cones from cars. But there she was, 12 years old and getting on the shuttle bus at 5 am to head the first transition.

Her family eagerly waited to see her after the swim and the curvy hills on her bike. She finally made it to the second transition to finish the race running never getting off her bike to walk up the hills like she saw other competitors do. It was a tough race and Madison wanted to cry and instead began praying out loud for Jesus to help her. Running comes easy to Madison so she easily passed other athletes winning the top female overall winner spot in the super sprint race category.

Madison's Mom noted Coach Quinn, was right by Madison's side for the duration of the race. "Coach Quinn brought in a 2nd place overall win for the race and 1st place coach award in our hearts", said Courtney Challis.  "While we are proud of her win, we are more proud of the determination and courage she displayed and the lessons she continues to learn through this sport and her SelecTri team."

Majestic Youth Sports Center in Willis offers after-school gym time as well as cheerleading, dance, tumbling,

gymnastics, ballet, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and ninja classes. The classes build strength, agility, self-awareness, and self-discipline. Visit majesticsports.com for times and schedules.

“We were amazed by Madison’s ability to compete with adults as a 12 year old”, said Madison’s mom Courtney Challis.

Bravo Company at the Crighton Theatre

Majestic Youth Sports Center

School of Rock Conroe

Music and The Arts

Kate Wishman, General Manager at the School of Rock , welcomes students age three and beyond to experience music lessons and programs. "Some children have never touched an instrument before, and others have years of experience. We meet them where they are and place them in bands divided by age level rather than skill level," she says. Kate aims to build them up as musicians and teach them the skills they need to grow in their musical journeys. "We definitely encourage students to participate in School of Rock performances. Our house band, all under 14 years old, appears at Margaritaville, Downtown

the DETAILS

Learn about School of Rock at the Summer Showcase

August 26th from 5:30pm 9:30pm, at Southern Star Brewing Company, 3525 N. Frazier in Conroe. The Summer Showcase will feature Southern Rock and Indie Rock from the School of Rock Performance Group.

The School of Rock teaches kids how to play together as a band with their patented Performance Based Music Education combining one-onone instruction with group rehearsals and live performances, teaching students how to play together as a band. Their version of recitals are real rock shows at real venues in front of live audiences.

Conroe, and Willis." Learn more at schoolofrock.com/ locations/conroe.

The Bravo Company Performing Arts School is the youth theater program at the historic Crighton Theatre that offers classes from September to May. Youth can audition for the visiting Missoula Children's Theatre in "Beauty Lou and the Country Beast" on October 2, with a performance at the end of the week! Check out the classes and audition information at crightontheatre.org/mct.

Cheers to a new school year of exploration and adventure off their devices!

Youth are encouraged to attend classses to "Be in the Band" with School of Rock.

NAVIGATING TECHNOLOGY FOR KIDS

"Don't sit so close to that screen!"

"Your eyes will turn square or go blind!"

My parents' comments about television are seared into my brain. New things have always been met with some trepidation! (Remember when rock and roll would lead to sex and drugs?!) So, it's no surprise that we wonder whether today's technology is good for our kids.

We, parents, have infinite love for our children. We hurt when they hurt. We carry their scars of being left out or bullied. We grew up during stranger danger, where men in white vans would kidnap using promises of puppies or candy! We want the best opportunities for our kids. It's no wonder why many of us succumbed to purchasing a smart device for our 12-, 10-, 6- or 4-year-old! Everyone has one! We need "to keep up with technology"! And let's face it, it's not like we could ask our parents how they handled this situation. And honestly, it makes my life easier, keeping my child entertained. I get more work done in peace and quiet. No one says, "I'm bored," and sometimes they don't even get hungry because they're so focused on their device! Okay, maybe that last comment is a red flag for technology use.

We've all been doing our best to parent in a challenging world. Technology has advanced at such a rapid pace, legislation and safeguards have not kept up. We brought devices into our homes, and maybe we wonder, what have we done? I don't blame parents, me included, but it's time to get honest. As Maya Angelou said, "When we know better, do better."

So, what do we know?

We know these apps are free, meaning the value isn't in their purchase like a car; the value is our attention. The more time we spend on a platform, the more we can be sold. It's with this in mind that the creators tapped into our brains. Every scroll, notification, like, or friend request feels like a reward. It triggers the release of dopamine, which feels good and leaves us wanting more. This itself isn't bad, but spending hours a day reinforcing dopamine hits can lead to addiction and little joy from other activities. Our children's brains are developmentally more reward sensitive, with their decision and consequence function only maturing in their mid-twenties.

True connection with others occurs with eye contact and touch (like a hug). This produces endorphins and oxytocin, which improves mood, reduces stress, and helps us feel loved and that we belong. We cannot get this via digital connection,

ARTICLE

BY GAYLE CHEATHAM

IS THERE A HEALTHY PATH TO GUIDE KIDS ON THEIR DEVICES?

Does this look familiar? Children are fascinated by technology.

I’M CONCERNED WE’RE GOING TO HAVE A GENERATION WHO FEELS ALONE BUT DOESN’T KNOW WHY. “MY PARENT(S) WERE PHYSICALLY PRESENT, PHYSICAL NEEDS WERE MET. WHY DO I FEEL EMPTY?” BECAUSE SPIRITUALLY, EMOTIONALLY, AND MENTALLY THEY WEREN'T PRESENT BECAUSE THEY WERE FOCUSED ON A DEVICE.

and the lack of eye contact and connection makes it easier to say hurtful things (bully), hide our true selves, and feel isolated.

A device doesn't come locked down or with a warning label when purchased. It can reach everything on the internet as soon as it's connected. Would you let your 10-year-old watch an R-rated movie or, worse, pornography? We've accepted that it's the parent's job to figure it out.

Comparison is human nature, but now we're comparing our real life to edited social media posts and contrasting our human bodies to edited images of "perfection." Even when we know it's edited, like our own touched-up image, our brain compares the two and believes we're not good enough.

This is just the tip of the iceberg, but if we adults are aware of how we feel after too much screen time, it's common sense to know our children will struggle with it.  cambelyn.com

The Surgeon General’s advisory regarding social media reported 40% more high school students reported feelings of sadness and hopelessness between 2009 and 2019.

Gayle Cheatham is a mother of two, certified coach, and published children’s book author. She founded Cambelyn Coaching to help families live healthier lives while finding increased connection. She encourages open communication, family technology plans, device protection, boundary setting, and more through coaching sessions and speaking events. Recently she co-founded Look Up Nonprofit, hoping to empower more families with mindful tech use and increased connection.

ABOUT THE PERSON

Are we tied to our devices?

Gayle Cheatham

Training your Dog - Do’s and Don’ts

I never thought I would be a full-fledged "dog person," but I have recently found myself owning three dogs that I never asked for! I know some of our readers own more than three, but you most likely chose them. I didn't get to choose my dogs. I inherited them. All three of them.

I own a Miniature Pinscher named Trixie, a Siberian Husky named Kodah, and a Terrier/ Yorkie mix named Mandy. Trixie was my

daughter's dog, left to us when she got married ten years ago. Eight years ago, my husband chose and brought home Kodah on Christmas Eve, and a couple of years ago, we inherited Mandy from my mother-in-law, who went to live in an assisted living facility.

So, due to my kind heart, I have officially rescued three dogs from unknown futures. What came next was learning, the hard way, how to care for these dogs. Luckily, my three

ARTICLE

BY KIMBERLY SUTTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

OBEDIENT DOGS SPELL FREEDOM FOR THE OWNER

Sit Means Sit Dog Training Obedience

children are grown, or I wouldn't have the time or the energy to care for these pets.

The smaller dogs are easy to care for on a daily basis. It is the Husky that has brought the need for training and obedience to my attention.

I recently met Lynda Smith, the owner of Happy & Behaved Dog in Conroe, known for being this area's female dog whisperer.

"Too many people think that the dog is the problem," Smith said. "When truly it is the dog owner who needs the training of how to handle their own dog. A pack leader is everything, caretaker, and corrector. As pack leader, you have to lead the dogs to participation, and if one dog in a pack turns its cheek to the participation in the pack, a pack member will correct."

Smith teaches people how to be the Pack Leader. Their posture, position, tone, and timing are essential to care for and correct the dog properly. Her other priority is to teach people how to satisfy the dog's nature.

"The purpose of and meaning of how their brains think, their lives should be lived, and the importance of how to allow the dog to utilize their senses with their nose, eyes, and ears," Smith said.

By using these methods, Smith can correct household behaviors and manners, how to walk the dog and socialize your pet with other animals.

Aaron Tolman, the  Sit Means Sit Dog Training owner, is located in Conroe. He began his dog training business five years ago after being in the restaurant industry.

"I knew next to nothing about dog training," Tolman said. "I had used some other trainers to train my dogs in the past with unsatisfying results. After another disappointing experience with a trainer, I was trying to do it myself by watching YouTube videos."

As he was looking for another business to start, he came upon Sit Means Sit dog training. "I fell in love with their training and jumped in feet first and have loved every minute since," Tolman said.

Since he began training pet owners and their dogs five years ago, Tolman says that "trained dogs have a much better quality of life and are significantly happier than dogs without training. Obedience equals freedom. The better behaved your dog is, the greater freedom it enjoys."

Both Smith and Tolman love what they do, and they get to be part of the transformation of each dog. Smith helped me transform my Husky in just four hours. I still have to work with him daily, but he is a better dog, and I am a better Pack Leader because of her training.

"I love training dogs with aggression and reactivity issues," Tolman said. "You get to see and be part of the transformation of a fearful and mean dog that learns to relax and turns into a cuddle bug typically. Seeing the client and dog's life improve for the better is the most rewarding part of the day."

Both Smith and Tolman agree that all bad behavior from dogs circles back to a lack of leadership, aka "The Pack Leader."

When I first spoke to Smith, she said, "I'm not going to train your dog. I am going to train YOU! I am going to train you to become the Pack Leader." I was floored. But it made sense. I was not being a very good Pack Leader by allowing Kodah to pull me all over my neighborhood after a long day at the office. From the time I arrived at Happy and Behaved Dog, Smith taught me how to approach Kodah and speak, handle, and walk him. He began making behavioral changes within the first 30 minutes.

"When we don't provide the leadership the dog needs, we leave the decision-making up to our

“Seeing the client and dog’s life improve for the better is the most rewarding part of the day.”

dog," Tolman said. "Being in charge and making every decision is stressful for our dogs. They are pack animals, and they want to follow someone else's lead. The stress of being in charge leads to anxiety, aggression, or both."

Tolman took on a German Shepard that had bit several people and wouldn't allow anyone to touch her. "She now snuggles and loves affection from people. It's the greatest thing to get to see those dogs change like that," he said.

Tips from the experts:

Structure, boundaries, and rules are your dog's best friend.

• Provide guidelines on correct behavior. Don't tell your dog what behavior you want when training your dog.

• If your dog jumps on people, don't tell it no, off, or down.

• Teach your dog to sit.

“Trained dogs have a much better quality of life and are significantly happier than dogs without training. Obedience equals freedom. The better behaved your dog is, the greater freedom it enjoys.”

Aaron Tolman, owner of Sit Means Sit

"Unfortunately, we all know what we don't want our dogs to do, but we need to take it one step farther and teach it the correct behavior," Tolman said.

Smith has had successful stories of transformation, as well.

Because I learned how to be a better Pack Leader, I now know how to handle my Husky, which gives him the freedom to be a dog and not be aggressive during our walks. It gives me the freedom not to worry about him attacking another dog because I am the one in charge. I AM the Pack Leader.

To learn more about these two dog trainers, visit SitMeansSitTX. com or Happy & Behaved Dog on Facebook.

Before purchasing a new dog, consider adopting a dog in need from the Montgomery County Animal Shelter. Many of the dogs and cats are in urgent need of placement based on the length of time at the shelter. Space is limited at the shelter, and sometimes they must make difficult decisions. The MCAS now offers wellness services by appointment on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm. Volunteers are always needed to walk dogs.

MCASPets.org

Lynda Smith, owner of Happy and Behaved Dog

Kodah, the Siberian Husky owned by the author Kimberly Sutton. Now well behaved!

IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

Animals

THAT ARE NOT PETS!

LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS! OH MY!

The exotic pet trade is a $3 billion-a-year industry in the United States, with anything from parrots, fish, tigers, monkeys, and bears available to purchase. But just because you can doesn't mean you should buy one. Many people don't know that anyone can purchase a tiger, a bear, or other critically endangered species for $300 to $500," says Kati Krouse, the Executive Director of Bears Etc.

Krouse strongly advises against owning exotic animals, such as monkeys, big cats, tropical birds, large reptiles, and of course, bears.

"These animals are not taken from the wild; they are bred and sold, selling baby animals to the public," Krouse says. "Breeders will do anything."

Researching exotic animals and understanding their cost of care is particularly important. Krouse says people do not realize the time, energy, space, and costs of caring for wild animals. They have extremely specific diets, enrichment, and housing needs that are expensive and will consume a lot of time for their care. As babies, they are cute and sweet, but once they get older, their demeanor will completely change, becoming unpredictable, aggressive, and dangerous.

"No one researches an animal before going and getting a pet," Krouse says. "Not all make great pets. Parrots and tortoises can live 70 to 100 years. Who will take care of these pets when you pass?"

Five years ago, she met a man who used five trained bears as entertainment for shows, rodeos, and circuses. They were not in the best health, and all five lived in

Bears can cost $20,000 per year to take care of and feed, eating 40 pounds of produce and 5 pounds of protein every day!

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a 20 x 30-foot cage, but they still outlived their owner. Krouse was called to transfer the animals because the man had become critically ill and could no longer care for them. He died two weeks later, and she notes that "rehoming" bears isn't the same as rehoming a dog.

"Bears can cost $20,000 per year to take care of and feed, consuming 40 plus pounds of fruits and vegetables along with fish, nuts, bugs, and other animals (including feral hog piglets) per day when preparing for hibernation in the winter months," Krouse says.

Recent estimates say that one thousand bears bought through the exotic pet trade live in substandard conditions in residential backyards as pets or roadside attractions needing placement. Animal facilities across the country housing large exotic animals and wildlife have closed due to a lack of finances. This leads to a lack of proper care and neglect.

The community does not realize how easy it is to buy an exotic animal. Currently, there are exotic animal sales north of Huntsville and through exotic pet stores in the Greater Houston area selling bears, tigers, lemurs, and other wild animals that only require a low-cost permit to have at your residence. You can buy a bear cub from a breeder for $500 and have it as a pet in your home!

In 2016, the Conroe Police Department received a report of a tiger found wandering near Longmire and League Line Road. Animal control officers located it and captured it. Later, it was transported to an animal sanctuary near Fort Worth.

"These large, dangerous carnivores are not domesticated and are really not tame," Krouse said. "They are a living, breathing, walking time bomb."

That's why Krouse backed the Big Cat Public Safety Act in 2022. She was so concerned that she sat down with Congressman Kevin Brady to explain the

BY KIMBERLY SUTTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Cute monkeys can grow into larger monkeys.

Kati Krouse and Congressman Kevin Brady

opposition and her qualms about the public's safety and that of the exotic animals, and he voted to pass the law the next legislative session. However, only ownership of big cats was outlawed. This law did not include or cover small cats, bears, and hyenas.

Krouse's knowledge of exotics comes from years of experience as a vet tech, groomer, wildlife rehabilitator, and a manager of a rescue organization as well as being a successful executive director of her own nonprofit organization. She is a member of the Texas Black Bear Alliance and serves on its Board of Directors, promoting the restoration of black bears in proper habitats throughout Texas through cooperative partnerships using education, research, and habitat management.

Kati Krouse's primary goal is to build the nation's first Bear-focused sanctuary for bears rescued from the exotic pet

The Big Cat Public Safety Act prohibits tigers as pets.

trade. The state-of-the-art facility would house neglected, rescued, and abandoned wildlife and exotic animals "close for people to bring their kids to see animals without fighting the Houston traffic," she said.

Much of Krouse's time is spent rescuing exotic animals, specifically bears, out of the exotic pet trade and educating the public by connecting people with nature. The organization exists to supply a permanent, community-based, self-sustainable refuge for displaced exotic and wild animals and educate others about the natural world. Krouse often speaks to civic organizations, clubs, and schools educating the community about wildlife, exotic animals, and of course Bears, Etc.

"I love sharing my passion with others and encouraging them to leave our planet better than we found it," she says.

For more than 20 years, Kati Krouse has been caring for and rescuing neglected and abandoned exotic animals. “Saving, changing lives, and speaking up for those who don’t have a voice is very important to me,” Krouse says. This is why she was compelled to form BEARS Etc. as a 501(c)3 in 2017 and to build the nation’s first Bear-focused sanctuary for bears rescued from the exotic pet trade.

One of her main priorities besides caring for exotics is educating the public and fundraising to purchase 20 acres in Montgomery County for the bears. The sanctuary will be open to the public, and Krouse expects 50,000 visitors a year, which will bring economic value to the community.

For more information on Bears Etc. follow bearsetc.org.

Cool Treats for the Heat

ARTICLE BY MARGIE TAYLOR | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The warmest and most humid month of the year is August. School starts August 9th for Conroe ISD, and the average temperature (not factoring in humidity) is 95 degrees. It helps to have cool refreshing ice cream, popsicles, fruity smoothies, yogurt, or an icy lemonade

to cool you down while sitting in the air conditioning or the pool.

We have selected a few images worth trying when you need a break from the heat. We can’t wait for Poppa’s Parlor and Popcorn to open their Conroe venue in 2024!

Lavender Latte from Juice Freaks, they recently moved to 525 Woodland Square Blvd.

Chiller Bee frozen yogurt with your choice of toppings.

Try Frio’s Gourmet Pops in most flavors with and without sugar.

The Cookie Monster Milkshake from Popps Parlor and Popcorn.

Fabulous Flatbread

This dish is from Chef Evon Profitt, the director of culinary operations for all of Westside Concepts in Arizona. This flatbread with grilled peaches, house-made rosemary paneer cheese, soppressata, fresh mint, and pistachios with a balsamic drizzle is to die for.

Grilled Peach Flatbread with House-Made Rosemary Paneer Cheese

Yield: 4 flatbreads

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 peaches cut into 8 pieces each

• 12 slices soppressata or any salami

• Fresh mint

• 1 tbsp. olive oil

• ¼ cup pistachios, chopped

• Balsamic reduction

• 4 baked naan bread

FOR

THE PANEER CHEESE:

• 6 cups whole milk

• 2 tbsp. rice wine vinegar

• ½ tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tsp. kosher salt

HOW TO MAKE PANEER CHEESE:

Paneer cheese is made by curdling milk using an acidic additive such as lemon juice or vinegar. Paneer cheese does not use any kind of rennet, nor fermentation or aging.

In a pot, bring 6 cups of whole milk to 200 degrees. Once milk has reached temp., stir in the 2 tbsp. of vinegar and turn off heat; milk will begin to separate. Allow milk to curd for 5 minutes, strain whey and curds into a cheesecloth-lined colander. Transfer curds to a mixing bowl and add chopped rosemary and 1 tsp. kosher salt, mix ingredients together, reserve the cheesecloth for the next step. Place the curds back into the cheesecloth, pull the corners of the cloth together, ring out excess whey from the curds, and hang for 30 minutes to continue draining. Once the curds have drained, place cheesecloth-wrapped curds back into the colander and place a heavy item on top, in order to press the curds into shape and press more of the whey from the cheese, for 3-4 hours. Use cheese fresh or keep refrigerated up to 4 days.

FLATBREAD:

Brush olive oil onto both sides of naan flatbread, and place in oven on rack for 10 minutes at 400 degrees, or grill for 2 minutes each side. Grill peach slices for 2 minutes each side, or place in oiled sauté pan till each side begins to caramelize. On a cutting board, lay flatbread down, and place grilled peach slices around flatbread. Take small pieces of Paneer cheese and place throughout over the peaches. Be creative and find place for the soppressata or salami of your choice. Garnish with crushed pistachios and torn fresh mint. Cut flatbread, transfer to serving plates, and drizzle with balsamic reduction.

“I love the use of fresh, locally sourced peaches, and giving people the chance to make an easy, versatile cheese at home with ingredients that many already have in their refrigerators and pantries.”

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 2ND

Conroe Founder's Day

202 AVE A, CONROE | 5:30 PM

Celebrate the City of Conroe and its founder Isaac Conroe on Wednesday, August 2nd, at 5:30 pm. Isaac Conroe left our world on August 2nd, 1897, and is given undisputed credit for naming Conroe.

Isaac Conroe built a house for his wife in 1885. The home served as the Montgomery County Courthouse and US Post Office, with Isaac Conroe as the Postmaster.

AUGUST 7TH

20th Annual Golfers Against Cancer

WALDEN ON LAKE CONROE

GOLF CLUB | 7:30 AM

Golfers Against Cancer (GAC) Walden on Lake Conroe Golf Club is honored to host the 20th Annual Walden GAC Golf Tournament to raise funds in support of Golfers Against Cancer. Over the past 19 years, they have provided more than $2,000,000 to GAC, helping to fund over 100 specific cancer research projects at leading medical institutions around the nation.  waldengolf.com/walden/gac

AUGUST 12TH

YES to YOUTH Gala Bloom

THE WOODLANDS WATERWAY

MARRIOTT | 6:00 PM "To the world, you may just be one person, but to one person, you may be the world."

Dr. Seuss describes the positive impact each of us can have in our lifetime on those who need it the most, the vulnerable youth in our community. Be that person and stand for those who need your help most.

www.sayyestoyouth.org

AUGUST 17TH

Trivia Night benefitting Education for Tomorrow Alliance

DOSEY DOE BIG BARN | 6:00 PM

Join EfTA for an evening of brain-busting fun, and friendly competition where guests will be challenged with trivia ranging from biology to pop culture.

The mission of EfTA is to cultivate education and community partnerships that advance student success through programs offering students hands-on experience in the STEM fields and beyond. efta-us.org/trivia-night.html

AUGUST 19TH

Raising a Hand Volume Three Pre-Sale Party

DOSEY DOE BIG BARN | 8:30 PM

Raising a Hand Volume Three will be presented as a Tribute to Dosey Doe by Kevin Black and Dave Clements on Saturday, August 19th, at the Gary P Nunn show at Dosey Doe, with all proceeds of the sale of the book for Rett Syndrome research and family support featuring 338 musical artists that have played at Dosey Doe.  DoseyDoeTickets.com

AUGUST 24TH

Annual Sporting Clays Competition-Montgomery County Community Foundation

BLACKWOOD GUN CLUB | 4:00 PM

The 24th  annual Montgomery County Community Foundation’s Shoot Out includes teams of four in a multi-stationed sporting clays competition. Blackwood Gun Club, located at 11400 FM 2854, in Conroe, is the venue.

The Montgomery County Community Foundation was established to build a permanent fund that would provide for the present and future well-being of our community.  mccfoundation.org

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Conroe

The Mama Bears Rising Movement

Advocating health, family, faith, and freedom

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BY MELANIE SAXTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

When Jessica Martin-Brassington realized she was clueless about her role and responsibilities as a citizen, she looked into the legislative process and laws affecting her everyday life.

“Ignorance was no longer an option for this mama. It was time to rise up for my health, family, and faith and help other mamas grow on their journey as well.”

Founding a Movement

Jessica, a certified holistic health and wellness coach, met some amazing people in the trenches, including a mix of educators, students, parents, partner organizations, and government leaders. She discovered the best approach is to be respectful and professional in her encounters while wrestling with issues that keep her and other Mama Bears up at night.

The Mama Bears Rising movement launched in May of 2022 as a way for moms to learn about parental rights that deal with education and medical issues. They also encourage parents to get involved and remain aware of anything happening in their community that could potentially impact their children.

She began tackling tough topics through her Mama Bears Rising platforms to provide connection and community and inspire candid conversations that many think about but are reluctant to discuss. Her blogs, podcasts, social media, coaching, advocacy work, hosting, and community events provide safe spaces to discuss concerns and contemplate solutions.

Moving Forward

Mama Bear University (online courses), Mama Bear Mentors, and Mama Bear Meetups are in the works. As for concerned grandmothers, Nana Bears Rising is on the horizon and will launch soon.

Suppose you’re looking for a safe space to learn about topics affecting your life and family, ways to engage as a citizen, challenge yourself through thought-provoking discussions, and grow in all areas of your life at your own pace. In that case, she says Mama Bears Rising is for you. They walk alongside parents offering resources, solution-focused conversations, community, and support.

Jessica believes “uprising” is necessary for our children’s and the nation’s future. “We’re out of hibernation, and we’re not going back to sleep.” MamaBearRising.com

Tips to prepare for Back to School:

• Familiarize yourself with your school district’s website - registrations, calendar, policies, committees, school board meeting information, and important events

• Know your rights as a parent - Parental Rights Bills were passed during the recent legislative session. Among them were bills allowing parents to access and review instructional materials and the expansion of Supplemental Special Education Services to students.

• There will be a special session in the fall addressing education bills.

• View the Texas Education Agency site at tea.texas.gov for laws, testing, graduation requirements, grievances, curriculum standards, and student assessments.

• Communicate and partner with your child’s teachers.

• Know your options for opting out. You’re the parent, and you can make informed decisions regarding your child’s health and education.

• Approach this school year with a positive attitude and grace!

Jessica Martin-Brassington

“Mama Bears Rising”

Jessica Martin-Brassington believes it's important as a mother to be very involved in your child's education and ask questions.