REAL ESTATE
CHECK OUT THE NEW PICKLEBALL SOCIAL IN CYPRESS
TRAVEL
INSIDE: OFFBEAT TEXAS ROADTRIP SIGHTS
HOME + DESIGN
EXPLORE SMART HOMES BY FULLY AUTOMATED
Letter from the Editor
I KNOW IT'S HOT--BUT IT'S ROADTRIP SEASON!
Grab your people, pack some snacks, and fill up your tank! Get on the road under the vast Texas sky! In this issue—dedicated to Exploring–we’ve compiled not only the best and quirkiest Offbeat Texas Sights for you to see, but other ways you can explore new things in your day-to-day!
Try new things–make your daily life simpler with Fully Automated's expertise in smart homes. This dedicated, locally and veteran-owned company is going the extra mile to meet the needs of their customers.
Don’t miss our feature on Hardcore Kustoms , a restoration shop with a reputation built on integrity, excellence and an extensive understanding of automotive artistry.
Speaking of new things, gear-up for a fun social experience at the new Cypress location of Pickleball Social. With an emphasis on social –it’s in the name after all! I had the opportunity to chat with the dynamic owners of this family-friendly locale; gathering friends and family together for good times, good food and good games!
Enjoy!
LAURA SANCHEZQUAN, MANAGING EDITOR
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Peggy Garner | peggy.garner@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Laura SanchezQuan
laura.sanchezquan@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Sunny Rajabi | hello@sunburstphotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Stephanie Parnell, Laura SanchezQuan, Kaylee Dusang, Yocheved with Texas Wanderers, Bailey Hall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sunny Rajabi, Yocheved with Texas Wanderers, Victoria Ditkovsky, Joseph Haubert
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Meets
city scene
1: Sprague MS student Taylor Jo Gavin won Silver at the Taekwondo World Championship tournament in Dubai. 2: Superior Subaru of Houston donated to Cy-Fair Helping Hands through its Share the Love campaign. 3: Cy-Fair’s Chloe Lee, Empty Streets founder, donated with team to Constable Rosen for trafficking survivors. 4: LSC-CyFair student Desiree Calderon de Fawaz’s piece “Despised” was displayed at the Pearl Fincher MFA. 5: LSC-Cy-Fair student Solomon Rowry’s artwork “Visionary” was displayed at the Pearl Fincher MFA. 6: LSC-Cy-Fair student Sarah Silver’s pieces “Echoes of Folklore” was displayed at the Pearl Fincher MFA. 7: LSC-Cy-Fair student Sydney Tran’s “Something Akin to Holiness” was displayed at the Pearl Fincher MFA.
8:
for Lightbridge Academy. 12:
UIL state
Cy-Ranch seniors Bitian Binoj, Chloe Nillas, and Elena Trevino painted a mural for Space City Orthodontics. 9: Cy-Fair senior Nicholas Oliver received a surprise $2,500 KPRC Senior Scholarship. 10: Cy-Springs’ Paris Melvin, Yogi Martin, Kam Roberson, and Sam Onwuchekwa won UIL State 4x100 relay. 11: Arturo and Liz Neto and Center Director Suzanne Jacobs at the groundbreaking ceremony
Bridgeland junior Rowan Saacke won gold in the girls’ 3,200-meter run at
meet. 13: Dawn Tryon, Sunny Rajabi, Leslie Martone and Nicole Travis at the Cy-Fair Chamber Business After Hours. 14: Michele and Jason Fortenberry and Nicole Travis at the Cy-Fair Chamber Business After Hours.
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Johnson Land Ventures Announces plans for new Community: Everly
With a grand opening slated for 2026 Johnson Land Ventures announces the name of its new 318 acre community, Everly, located on Grand Parkway off Hopfe Road. Anticipating 1,000 homes, the first phase consists of 308 homes by builders Drees Custom Homes, Perry Homes and Westin Homes. The community will have 11 acres of amenities with an amenity complex. johnsondevelopment.com
read more
Cy-Fair Fire Department Opens Stations 1 & 6
Cy-Fair Fire Department excitedly announces that Fire Stations 1 and 6 are now officially open and ready to serve! These new stations are fully operational and here to proudly protect and support the growing Cy-Fair community. These stations are topof-the-line state-of-the-art buildings and CFFD invites the community to stop by and see them. cyfairfd.org
Scan to read more
Urban Skillet brings Award-Winning Halal Burgers to Cypress
Omar Qureshi brings Californiabased burger joint, Urban Skillet, to Cy-Fair to their first Texas location. Their halal meat is processed in a unique way to create the distinct juicy flavor of their award winning burgers. All their meat is slaughtered humanely and processed with care and respect for the animal and consumer. Halal meat is considered to have a pure and fresh taste due to the animals’ diet. urbanskilletla.com
DON’T LET FIREWORKS SPARK AN EMERGENCY
FOLLOW THESE SAFETY TIPS
Fireworks are a fun Fourth of July tradition, but every year they lead to thousands of fires, burns, and traumatic injuries—especially to the hands, face, and eyes. To stay safe, follow these guidelines:
Handle fireworks responsibly. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions, light only one at a time, and never hold lit fireworks in your hands. Don’t attempt to re-light “duds.”
Light them in a safe place. Light fireworks only outdoors on a flat, hard surface away from people, buildings, and flammable material. Dry grass is a big risk!
Dispose of them properly. Soak them in water overnight to be sure they are out. Keep pets and children away from residue and sweep it up when cool—it is toxic.
Find an alternative to sparklers. They burn at over 2,000 degrees and are dangerous to young children. Glow sticks are a safer alternative.
The safest option is to attend a professional display, but if you use fireworks at home, these precautions will reduce your risk.
Scan here for more fireworks safety tips.
CONTINUED
Connie’s Frozen Custard Expands with Second Location
Connie’s Frozen Custard, known for its rich, frozen custard and award-winning treats located off of Jones Rd for the last quarter- century is excited to expand and open a second location. To be located at 11231 Greenhouse Road in the Towne Lake Market, with an anticipated opening planned for later this year. conniesfrozencustard.com
Photography by Sunny Rajabi
Cake Fine Pastry Wins Prestigious Bakery Award
Locally-owned Cake Fine Pastry was named the Houston Bakers Guild 2025 Boutique Bakery of the Year. Chef Elizabeth Hale, owner of the bakery and previous Food Network Champion, received the honor at the 4th Annual Bakers Guild Awards Gala held in May. The BGA spotlights Houston's best culinary experts and aims to foster the growth of young chefs and bakers by funding culinary scholarships for students. cakefinepastry.com
Lightbridge Academy Opening Late Fall
Lightbridge Academy is a one-ofa-kind educational experience. Playing a transformative role though their proprietary early childhood education curriculum impacts the "whole" child in a multitude of ways. By embracing every moment as an opportunity to learn, all developmental areas are met, unlocking every child's potential including academic success. Their state-ofthe-art child care center provides a professional yet nurturing homeaway-from-home environment where children will feel safe and comfortable. lightbridgeacademy.com
the WIGXPERTS In The Heart Of
Two sisters—also known as “the WigSters” have turned their passion into a purpose. Sheri Marie & Kelli Michelle are dedicated to helping individuals facing hair loss regain their confidence and feel beautiful once again. Hair loss, whether from natural thinning, medical conditions, chemotherapy & countless other reasons, can be an emotional experience. We understand the deep impact it has, which is why we offer customized hair toppers and wigs that restore not just hair but also self-assurance. Every client we meet has a unique story, and we consider it an honor to be a part of their transformation. From the moment you step into The WIGXPERTS, we provide a warm, supportive space where you can explore options that suit your style and needs. With a turnaround time of anywhere from the same day to 72 hours, we ensure that your new look is both seamless and stunning. Our mission goes beyond providing hair solutions—we’re here to uplift, empower, and remind every client that beauty isn’t just about hair; it’s about confidence, resilience, and feeling like the best version of yourself. Come visit The WIGXPERTS today and leave with the hair of your dreams. With Love~ The WIGXPERTS
WHERE Grit Meets GLOSS
Tucked away in the heart of Cypress, Hardcore Kustoms has been a cornerstone of the local automotive scene since its establishment in 2005. Founded by passionate car enthusiast Josh Hendon with the support of his wife, Bonnie, the shop has grown into a premier destination for vehicle restoration and customization, serving the local community and beyond.
“I grew up on a farm in west Texas and was always fascinated by anything that had the potential to go fast. While completing my undergrad in mechanical engineering at Texas Tech, I was fortunate enough to be around individuals who were deeply involved in the automotive aftermarket industry,” said Josh. “I filed for a DBA in 2005 and built cars for enjoyment until 2016, when I started taking on private customers from word of mouth. In 2021 there was an unfortunate layoff in the oil and gas sector due to Covid. This push forced me to focus on building the business in my backyard.”
Fast forward to present day, and Hardcore Kustoms celebrated the grand opening of a commercial location in Tomball in 2024 with three employees and a regular book of business and will be launching a new location next year. Hardcore Kustoms specializes in restoring all makes and models of cars, offering services
From Custom Paint to Full Restorations, Hardcore Kustoms Turns Raw Metal into Rolling Masterpieces
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUNNY RAJABI
Josh & Bonnie Hendon
that range from body repair and custom paint to fullscale restorations.
“I find significant satisfaction in the meticulous process of historical recreation,” remarked Josh. “I am particularly motivated by the opportunity to exercise artistic discretion in incorporating subtle yet impactful details that enrich the overall authenticity and can offer a deeper layer of appreciation for those who take the time to observe them closely.”
The shop's reputation is built on a foundation of excellence and an extensive understanding of automotive artistry. Whether it's a classic muscle car in need of a revival or a modern vehicle seeking a unique custom touch, Hardcore Kustoms approaches each project with the same level of dedication and precision.
“Founded on the core principles of uncompromising quality, unwavering integrity, and transparent honesty, Hardcore Kustoms reflects these values in every facet of our operation,” added Josh. “This commitment is evident in the meticulous craftsmanship of our work, our proactive and clear communication with each client, and the exceptional character of our talented
“I find significant satisfaction in the meticulous process of historical recreation.”
Josh Hendon
team members: Brock, Brian, and Aaron. We prioritize treating every customer with the respect and consideration we ourselves expect, fostering relationships built on trust and mutual understanding. While Hardcore Kustoms continues to evolve, our foundational commitment to integrity and the highest standards of quality remains constant and guaranteed.”
Over the years, Hardcore Kustoms has become more than just a restoration shop; it's a hub for car enthusiasts and a testament to the enduring appeal of custom automotive work. Their presence in the community is marked by participation in local events and a commitment to supporting fellow car lovers in the Cypress area.
“We focused on LS/LT and Coyote swaps early on. Scott Baccus at Tejas Steelworks was a big supporter of our C10
work and pushed customers to us,” said Josh. “We typically work on projects that no one else wants to. Either because parts were lost or damaged by another shop, not available at all, or it requires system integration (resto-mod). Problem-solving isn't just a service we offer; it's the driving passion behind our work. We excel where others find roadblocks, meticulously engineering solutions to bring even the most demanding visions to life.”
As they continue to evolve and take on new challenges, Hardcore Kustoms remains true to their roots, delivering high-quality restorations and customizations that reflect the individuality of each client. Their work not only preserves the legacy of classic vehicles but also contributes to the vibrant automotive culture of Cypress.
“What makes us extremely unique amongst other shops is that quality and consistency are not just goals; they are the foundation of our service, applied rigorously to every task,” said Josh.
For those looking to transform their vehicle into a personalized masterpiece, Hardcore Kustoms offers the expertise, passion, and craftsmanship to make it happen. Their dedication to excellence ensures that every project they undertake is a rolling testament to their skill and commitment to the art of automotive customization.
hardcore-kustoms.com
Brian Mattison
Brock Bullock
Aaron Horsley
Brock Bullock, Josh Hendon, Brian Mattison, and Aaron Horsley.
PICKLEBALL
SOCIAL
A Perfect Blend of Friendly Competition and Social Gathering
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUNNY RAJABI
The unique family- and pet-friendly social hot spot and pickleball venue, Pickleball Social, offers seven indoor courts and six outdoor courts as well as a sports bar, food trucks, huge TV screens, Karaoke rooms and a pro shop with pickleball gear.
I had the opportunity to sit down with owners Juan Carlos Flores and Ivan Alvarez to get to know them and discover what Pickleball Social is all about.
LSQ: How did the two of you meet?
JUAN CARLOS: We met in San Antonio during college many moons ago (30 years ago) and we have been hanging out ever since.
IVAN: And now we live close by and our kids go to the same schools.
LSQ: What led to you opening Pickleball Social?
IVAN: We had talked about opening an entertainment place together for a few years, but didn't know what. We visited our friend, who is now our manager, at a pickleball club and we fell in love with the game.
JUAN CARLOS: A few weeks later we went skiing in Vail and on the way back a snow storm delayed our flight for five hours. That’s where we decided to open Pickleball Social.
IVAN: We were immediately drawn to the game. The five-hour flight delay was what gave us the perfect opportunity to solidify our decision.
LSQ: Share a little about what you offer at Pickleball Social?
JUAN CARLOS: Entertaining and spending quality time with friends and family has always been important to both of us. From the very beginning, our vision for Pickleball Social was to create a place where people could not only enjoy playing pickleball but also socialize and have a great time.
IVAN: Pickleball is such a naturally social sport, offering the perfect mix of friendly competition and interaction. We've aimed to create a family-friendly environment where everyone, regardless of their skill level, can enjoy a bit of competition along with good food and drinks, karaoke, and we always have sports playing on our screens.
"WE'VE AIMED TO CREATE A FAMILY-FRIENDLY
WHERE EVERYONE, REGARDLESS OF THEIR SKILL LEVEL, CAN ENJOY A BIT OF COMPETITION
ALONG WITH GOOD FOOD AND DRINKS."
LSQ: Do you offer classes for those who've never played Pickleball?
IVAN: Yes, we offer group and private classes as well as summer camps for kids.
LSQ: What can be expected in terms of community events and special offerings?
JUAN CARLOS: We offer specials for our armed forces, weekly specials on open play for players 55+, and from time to time we will have free live music.
LSQ: How many locations do you have?
IVAN: We opened our first location in 2023 on Conrad Sauer Drive. Cypress will be our second location and we have a third, San Antonio location (where we met), in the works in The Rim area.
LSQ: What would you say sets you apart from other Pickleball clubs or venues?
JUAN CARLOS: We are different from other Pickleball clubs where their main focus is pickleball and the players tend to be super competitive and want to be the best player. We are more of an entertainment facility where the main attraction is Pickleball, but our focus is on creating a fun experience for all levels of players.
IVAN: We believe Pickleball Social offers a different experience compared to other pickleball clubs. Our primary focus is on creating a fun and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their skill level. Instead of a focus solely on elite performance, at Pickleball Social the social experience is just as important as the game itself.
Juan Carlos Flores & Ivan Alvarez
Choose Smartly
Explore Fully Automated Custom Solutions; Bringing Advanced Smart Home Technology to Your Doorstep
Local, family and veteran owned and operated, Fully Automated Custom Solutions provides smart home integration for any type of control system within the home or office space. Interior and exterior lighting, shades, security, and multi-audio systems, among others. Not only does the company specialize in durable and reliable technology, but they also strive to form a personal connection with their clients. “Our goal is to create environments that support our clients' lifestyles without detracting from it,” said Jason Fortenberry, President and CEO of Fully Automated Custom Solutions. “There's so many little tasks that we do every day that most people may not think about, but in the grand scheme of things, it adds up.”
Along with lighting solutions, automated products like blinds and shades can also help regulate the temperature within the home, creating a more energy efficient space, offering private residents and commercial businesses a more convenient option for their security, lighting, energy use, and more. “These solutions can help control the environment, to make it more conducive for living, but less maintenance, less time out of your day, and ultimately saves you money on your power and utility bills,” Jason said.
ARTICLE BY KAYLEE DUSANG
Jason said one of the most popular items is their permanent holiday lights. While they are a convenient addition for the Christmas season, the lights can be used for any event or holiday throughout the year. “If you wanted to celebrate the Astros game day, you could put in the Astros colors and have a pattern just for that game,” he said. Beyond aesthetic purposes, the automated lights can also perform security functions by highlighting darkened parts of the property. It also improves safety for the homeowners since they do not need to install them on their own. “This is one of the ways where we can integrate the different technologies together so that they work cohesively and improve the overall product of each individual item,” Jason said.
“The
thing that really sets us apart is that every customer is like family, and every customer gets a custom solution. Everything is tailor-made to their needs and their specific wants, it’s our responsibility to guide our clients to the most beneficial solution.”
Jason said their ultimate goal is to meet the individual wants and needs of each client. For example, if a homeowner wants lighting control in a single room, the company will review the space to determine what kind of lighting would be beneficial for that room. “We're not really about just selling a product,” he said. “It's about making a solution to fit their current needs.”
Jason explains that he and his family started Fully Automated Custom Solutions as a way to support their community after he retired from the military in 2015. The company was initially based out of Virginia until the COVID19 pandemic. Following the outbreak, Jason and his family moved to Houston and opened the business in Cypress in 2021.
While the company no longer markets in Virginia, they still support their original client base there. “Our clients appreciate the personal touch of having somebody that they can go to,” Jason said. The company prides themselves on knowing every single one of their customers and interacting with each of them during the installation process.
“I think the thing that really sets us apart is that every customer is like family, and every customer gets a custom solution,” said Michelle Fortenberry, Vice President of Administration. “Everything is tailor-made to their needs and their specific wants, it's our responsibility to guide our clients to the most beneficial solution.”
Michelle said the business serves as a one-stop-shop, where they take care of every client’s smart home needs. “It limits the amount of contractors in your home, and I just think it makes it a little bit more personal,” Michelle said. “That’s the one thing that I really love about our company – building relationships with our clients.”
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OFFBEAT
TEXAS SIGHTS
Unique and Quirky Attractions to Explore on Your Next Road Trip
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN
1.
CADILLAC RANCH | AMARILLO
Created by Stanley Marsh 3 (an American artist, businessman, philanthropist, and prankster from Amarillo) and The Ant Farm group, Cadillac Ranch is a quirky yet charming public art installation and sculpture in Amarillo paying homage to the American automobile culture. Inspired by the aesthetics and symbolism of Route 66 the installation consists of a row of ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground, since 1974.
2. LARGEST COWBOY BOOTS | SAN ANTONIO
The World’s Largest Cowboy Boots turned forty-five this year. Verified by the Guinness Book of World Records, this 10,000-pound sculpture stands thirty-five feet and 3 inches tall and is thirty feet long! In 1979, Bob 'Daddy O' Wade was commissioned by the Washington Project for the Arts in D.C. to create a Texas-themed sculpture to be featured near the White House. The Rouse Company, who owned North Star Mall at the time, won the bid at $20,000. The boots arrived in San Antonio in 1980 and have remained here ever since.
3. TRAVELING MAN | DALLAS
Located on the east side of downtown Dallas, the Traveling Man is a three-site installation featuring this guitar-shaped-headed character with his bird friends. Named the best public artwork by several national publications and has appeared on many national TV programs and was included in the Americans for the Arts 'Year in Review' program in 2010 for best public art in North America.
Photo Credit: Joseph Haubert
Photo Credit: Nick Fox - stock.adobe.com
Stonehenge II in Ingram was created as an art project by Al Shepperd and Doug Hill. It took nine months to build and is 90 percent the height and 60 percent the width of the original. Giving free range to his fanciful notion, Shepperd added two thirteen-foot Easter Island head replicas for good measure.
The World's First Bumble Bee themed gas station and convenience store. It's a gas station with a full-service pump, a restroom, and a replica of the Bumblebee Transformer—plus “the best burgers in town” inside the Chevron station–with friendliest staff around.
Originally the World's Largest Fire Hydrant, this twenty-four-foot, 4,500 pound Dalmatian-spotted fire hydrant at the Fire Museum of Texas was donated to the City of Beaumont by Walt Disney in 1999 for the re-release of the animated movie 101 Dalmatians. Stretch your legs and walk through Fire Museum of Texas while you're there.
4. THE BEE MART | TERRELL
5. STONEHENGE II | INGRAM
Photo by Chris Wise via Fotospot
6. GIANT DALMATIAN FIRE HYDRANT | BEAUMONT
Photo Credit: Yocheved of Texas Wanderers
The world’s largest spur, in Lampasas stands at about thirty-five feet tall and weighs about 10,000 pounds! Wayland Dobbs was commissioned by Leah Carruthers and it was erected in 2016–it even had a police escort from Cherokee Texas. It took several years, but it was approved through the The Guinness Book of World Records and is verified that the spur is the largest in the world.
Erected in 1993, this scale model is about one-tenth the height of the French original but needed its own Texan signature - a bright red cowboy Stetson-style hat. The local iron workers' union welded this sixty-foot masterpiece and the added cowboy hat (which adds another 5 feet). It also includes twenty-seven LED lights that are light up in seasonal colors.
The world’s largest shovel, located in Creedmor was constructed out of recycled material – a utility pole and a dumpster. It stands forty-one feet high and weighs 5,000 pounds. It was created by Texas Disposal Systems, a family-run company with a mission to take Austin’s trash and turn it into treasure. The company claims it's a testament to its commitment to the environment.
7. WORLD’S LARGEST SPUR | LAMPASAS
8. EIFFEL TOWER | PARIS (PARIS, TEXAS, OF COURSE)
9. WORLD’S LARGEST SHOVEL | CREEDMOR
Photo Credit: Yocheved of Texas Wanderers
Photo Credit: Yocheved of Texas Wanderers
10.
In 1927, E.F. Boydston built a gas station in Decatur and eight years later covered its exterior with chunks of petrified wood and didn’t stop. He even covered the walls of his cafe and motor court next door as well. Closed up since the 80s, it passed into the hands of one of E.F. 's grandchildren who spent a decade restoring the entire complex to its 1945 glory. Stop by and snap a picture in front of the historical marker.
11.
The Pease Park Conservancy is the only place in Texas to have a troll sculpture from the Danish artist in its Thomas Dambo’s Malin Fountain. More than 80% of Malin the Troll is made of recycled, repurposed or found materials, including wood from an old research test tank. Malin’s core is made from about 1,800 linear feet of Eastern Red Cedar from the local Wampler sawmill in Bastrop County. The tank was constructed from Douglas fir in 1976-1979 and was deconstructed in 2021. About 7,500 linear feet of the wood is now being used for the exterior cladding of the troll.
12.
While it is no longer the World’s Largest Rocking Chair, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, it’s now dubbed the Worlds Largest Cedar Rocking Chair. The twenty-six-foot tall cedar chair outside the Texas Hill Country Furniture in Lipan is a fun stop and a sight to see.
PETRIFIED WOOD GAS STATION | DECATUR
MALIN'S FOUNTAIN BY THOMAS DAMBO | AUSTIN
WORLD’S LARGEST CEDAR ROCKER | LIPAN
Photo Credit: Yocheved of Texas Wanderers
Photo Credit: Pease Park Conservancy
Photo Credit: Victoria Ditkovsky - stock.adobe.com
A unique outdoor museum setting with realistic life-size dinosaur exhibits that show skin and color variations to give a better understanding of how they looked. The static statues range in size from the two-foot long Compsognathus to the 123-foot-long Diplodocus. As you walk through a tree-lined nature trail, the dinosaurs are situated among plants, trees and rocks, making it easy to imagine real dinosaurs in a natural environment. Fun and educational, other activities include a fossil-dig, playground, picnic area, and a Dinosaur Store stocked with an array of gift choices.
| HALLETSVILLE
This giant soup can in Eastland is painted on a 210-gallon oil field tank and was originally part of the 2002 Outdoor Art Museum (OAM). Its inception was by Cathi Ball, a former Eastland High School art teacher. The guiding mission of OAM is to make art history accessible to the rural community. Because of this, each famous artwork reproduction includes information about the artist's background or the style of art.
Located in Halletsville the statue is pretty much an hour and fifty minutes from Houston, Austin, and San Antonio! This statue is apparently a marketing piece created by a financial services company in the strip mall behind the statue. Fun for a photo op!
Special thanks to Yocheved of Texas Wanderers for being the inspiration behind this article. She is Texan by choice if not by birth and has been living in Texas with her family for over a decade, loving every minute of it. She spends her free time exploring Texas and sharing the best of Texas nature, historic towns, and unique lodging accommodations. texaswanderers.com
13. THE DINO PARK | BASTROP
14. GIANT SOUP CAN | EASTLAND
15. MINI STATUE OF LIBERTY
Photo Credit: Yocheved of Texas Wanderers
Photo Credit: Yocheved of Texas Wanderers
Photo Credit: The Dino Park
Restoring Commercial Real Estate Value
ICE CUBES ICE CUBES ICE CUBES ICE CUBES ICE CUBES
CreativeIceCubes FOR SUMMER
Stay Cool with Fun Infused Ice Recipes
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summer can be sweltering, but you can beat the heat with these fun and refreshing infused ice recipes. Not only are they a great way to stay cool, but they also add a delightful twist to your favorite beverages.
CONTINUED >
Coffee Ice Cubes for Iced Coffee
Transform your iced coffee experience by using coffee ice cubes. This simple trick ensures your drink stays strong and flavorful without getting watered down.
Ingredients:
• Freshly brewed coffee
Instructions:
1. Brew Coffee: Make a pot of your favorite coffee.
2. Cool and Freeze: Allow the coffee to cool, then pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze.
3. Serve: Add the coffee ice cubes to your iced coffee for a rich, undiluted flavor.
Edible Flower Ice
Create stunning and elegant ice cubes using edible flowers. These pretty ice cubes are perfect for special occasions or adding a touch of beauty to everyday drinks.
Ingredients:
• Edible flowers
• Water
Instructions:
1. Prep the Flowers: Rinse the edible flowers thoroughly.
2. Fill the Tray: Place the flowers in an ice cube tray, filling each compartment halfway with water.
3. Freeze Partially: Freeze until the water is just starting to set, then fill the rest of the tray with water to fully submerge the flowers. This helps keep the flowers centered in the cubes.
4. Freeze Completely: Freeze until solid.
5. Serve: Use these beautiful ice cubes in your favorite drinks for a floral touch.
These infused ice recipes are not only practical but also add an extra layer of enjoyment to your summer beverages. Enjoy these refreshing and creative ways to stay cool all season long!
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR • DRYWALL REPAIR
CABINET REFINISHING • LIME-WASHING
PRESSURE WASHING • STUCCO REPAIR
CEILING POPCORN REMOVAL
FENCE & DECK STAINING WALLPAPER REMOVAL
that1painter.com/cypress-katy/ (281) 214-2091
U NMATCH E D BE UT Y
If Switzerland is not on your bucket list, put it on there now! Switzerland is awash in beautiful mountains, hiking trails, the alps, villages and lakes. It truly captures the heart the second the plane lands. The train system is easy and affordable and a great way to see the countryside, so be sure to plan some day trips using their easy transportation systems. Don’t be afraid to visit with the locals to hear where they would go to base some of your day trips on their recommendations. They are generally spot on every time.
ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPHY
BY JANIE JONES
WHERE TO EXPLORE:
• Appenzell and Lake Constance is surrounded by Switzerland, Austria and Germany. An easy and short train ride to Appenzell and a quick gondola ride up the mountain boasts a beautiful view of the lake and surrounding areas.
• Ticino is where the locals suggest to visit and holiday. It is known for its waterfront promenade, bridges, castles, historical buildings and stunning landscape.
• Take in the sights of Zurich and its magnificent lakeside views. This spectacular city boasts amazing views, food and locals.
• Take a short three hour train ride to Paris to explore the gorgeous city and delectable French food.
WHERE TO EAT:
• To indulge in the traditional treat that Switzerland is known for, visit Sprungli which serves the best chocolate in Switzerland.
• To treat yourself to a Michelin restaurant, head to Zurich and eat at Kronenhalle.
• Aperol spritz and local craft beer is readily served at almost every cafe to enjoy.
• When in doubt, ask the locals, as they are happy to suggest their favorite eateries.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 4TH
July 4th Celebration & Street Fest
Business Highway 249 just north of FM 2920 in Tomball | 6:00 PM
This annual July 4th Celebration & Street Fest in Tomball features live music, food, local vendors, and one of the biggest fireworks shows around. It'll be a patriotic birthday celebration in Tomball as the City stages the biggest Independence Day event in northwest Harris County. Free admission and parking. There will be food vendors to satisfy your taste buds, craft vendors to find unique gifts and custom items, and water inflatables along with a cool zone to beat the heat. tomballtx.gov
JULY 7TH - 18TH
Playhouse 1960 Legally Blonde Jr. Summer Camp
Playhouse 1960 | 6814 Gant Road 1:00 PM
During the two-week summer camp productions, students aged 5-16 participate in acting games, exercises and improvisations. With a performance at the end of camp. Legally Blonde Jr. follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Befriending classmate, Emmett, and spunky hairdresser, Paulette, along the way she realizes that law may be her natural calling after all. playhouse1960.com
JULY 12TH
Christmas in July Car Show
Mo's Irish Pub Cypress | 14002 Mueschke Rd | 9:00 AM
Christmas in July car show continuing the tradition at a new venue, Mo's Irish Pub in Cypress. This event is open to ALL makes & models and will feature
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summer Santa photo ops, music, drink specials and great food. Patio seating with outdoor TV's, and a raffle, benefiting the Marine Toys for Tots. There will be uniformed Marines on duty for photo ops. Take the family for a day of fun!
JULY 14TH - 18TH
Broadway Junior Summer Sessions with Bridgeland High School Theatre Company
Bridgeland High School Theatre Company | 10707 Mason Rd | 9:00 AM
Open to all current 1st - 7th grade students–a week learning all-things-theatre with award winning Bridgeland High School Thespians and directors! With a performance showcase on the final day for parents, family, friends, and neighbors to attend. Registration is open through July 11th. bridgelandhstheatre.org
JULY 25TH - AUGUST 17TH
Stageworks Theatre
Presents Annie
Stageworks Theater | 10760 Grant Rd | 7:00 PM
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-tonothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. stageworkshouston.org/annie
JULY 28TH - AUGUST 1ST
Painting with a Twist: Twist Kids Camp
Painting with a Twist | 12344 Barker Cypress Rd | 9:00 AM
This is a full week of art camp with a qualified Painting with a Twist instructor. Each day, students will work on that day's painting, then take a break and do some crafts. paintingwithatwist.com
