From diagnosis to treatment to recovery, your dedicated Houston Methodist cancer center team uses leading research, cutting-edge technology and the latest treatments to create a personalized care plan for you. At eight cancer center locations throughout the Greater Houston area, you’ll find the cancer expertise to help you feel whole again.
That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. For you.
There’s something about August that brings a mix of back-to-school anticipation and a final burst of summer fun. It’s the season of last-minute adventures, fresh notebooks, and soaking up every bit of sunshine before routines return in full swing.
This month, we’re celebrating two things that always bring joy to our lives: kids and pets.
Whether it’s a giggle from the backseat on the way to practice or a child bonding with their cat, dog, hamster, or goldfish, kids and pets have a special way of reminding us to live in the moment. Their curiosity, energy, and sometimes total chaos create the memories we cherish most.
In this issue, you’ll find stories of local young changemakers, creative kids, and snapshots of playful summer moments. We’re also sharing practical tips, fun activities, and a peek at some pet-friendly places right here in East Montgomery County—because no matter the size, species, or number of legs, our pets add something special to our everyday lives.
August may signal a season of transition, but it also offers a fresh start, a time to try something new, explore with your kids (and maybe your pets), and enjoy the sweet simplicity of a community that shows up, supports, and smiles together.
Here’s to new beginnings, muddy paws, messy backpacks, and memories in the making.
STACY LEACH, EDITOR @PORTERCITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Rachel Burk | rachel.burk@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stacy Leach | stacy.leach@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jamie Allgood | jamie.allgood@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rachel Burk, Amber Dobyns, Stacy Leach
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
HB 2012 aims to give law enforcement the necessary tools to address safety and nuisance concerns caused by roadside vendors and panhandlers. The increase in individuals selling goods and soliciting money from medians and intersections creates dangerous conditions for both pedestrians and drivers. Additionally, temporary roadside vendors often operate without proper food safety protocols or tax compliance, undercutting established local businesses.
HB 2012 was introduced by State Representative Cecil Bell during the 89 Texas Legislative Session and signed by Governor Abbott on June 22, 2025. th This piece of legislation goes into effect September 1, 2025.
Prohibits roadside vendors in rights-of-way (ROW) in unincorporated areas of the county.
Limits solicitation of money in roadways from panhandlers.
Restricts the placement of pop up stands and temporary structures in ROW and medians.
Provides additional tools for law enforcement to enforce the law with violators.
Regulates the sale of food, merchandise, and live animals.
“Every day, we see more individuals panhandling or selling unregulated food and merchandise from the median of busy county roads. This law gives our county the tools to protect drivers, reduce traffic hazards, and crack down on vendors who ignore health, tax, and safety rules. Let Montgomery County
“It gives me great pleasure to announce that there are still banks, like The MINT National Bank, that continue to provide a sense of security in this insecure world,”
- Karen Dorway, president
of BauerFinancial.
The MINT National Bank, Kingwood’s only hometown bank, is proud to announce being awarded a 5-star rating by Bauer Financial, a leading independent evaluator of bank financial health.
This prestigious rating signifies exceptional performance and positions The MINT National Bank among the strongest financial institutions in the country.
359-6468
1: Building community together—Porter City Lifestyle and partners at the EMC Chamber gathering. 2: Commissioner Gray hosted County 101, connecting realtors with key departments and resources for local clients. 3: Dave Roach, owner of Mud and Merlot, pictured with his charming sidekick, Betty the pig. 4: A few amazing partners enjoyed casual conversation, great networking, and delicious food at Italiano’s Restaurant. 5: Breaking ground on Highlands Middle School—opening Fall 2027 and bringing new opportunities to our community! 6: Summer camp at Ms. Kathleen’s Riding was a blast—horses, laughter, and memories for all! 7: “Mid-Day in Paris” Senior Prom was magnifique—full of joy, dancing, and unforgettable moments!
We care as much about why you're investing as what you invest in. Our personalized approach to investing is what sets us apart. And we'll work with you every step of the way to help you build the future you desire. So you can enjoy all the special moments life has to offer.
Madison Duxbury, CFP®, CRPC™
Financial Advisor
21383 Valley Ranch Blvd Suite 500 New Caney, TX 77357 281-358-2187
Cameron Hayes, ChFC®, AAMS®, CRPC™
Financial Advisor
19701 Kingwood Dr Bldg 1, Suit A Kingwood, TX 77339
832-644-2117
Jim Carranza, ChFC ®, AAMS®
Financial Advisor
855 Rockmead Dr Unit 405 Kingwood, TX 77339
281-359-7455
LoneStar Pet Grooming is excited to now offer professional pet training in addition to their expert grooming services! With over 50 years of combined experience, their team is committed to helping your furry friend look great and behave their best. Whether it's basic obedience or more specialized support, LoneStar’s positive, caring approach builds lasting results. Call or visit today to learn more and schedule your pet’s first session!
Please welcome Tracey to LashKind Kingwood! Tracey has been a lash and brow artist for 5+ years. She specializes in lash extensions, brow services, and facial threading! Book your appointment with Tracey and enjoy our new stylist specials: booking.lashbar.com
Elite Hospital Kingwood has once again been recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the 2025 Best Places to Work in Healthcare. This honor reflects the hospital’s strong culture, focus on employee satisfaction, and commitment to excellence in patient care. Voted on by employees, this marks the fourth time Elite has received the award, highlighting their dedication to both their team and the Kingwood community.
ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS
LoneStar Pet Grooming is more than just a grooming shop—it’s a place where pets are treated like family, where tails wag with delight, and every furry friend receives the care they truly deserve. Located in Porter, Texas, Barbara and Keith Lupardus have poured a lifetime of passion and expertise into creating a space that transforms not only the pets they groom but also the lives of their owners.
For Keith, grooming has been a journey spanning more than 55 years. What started as a summer job became a lifelong calling, shaping his deep respect for the craft and love for animals. Barbara shared that passion, and together, they dedicated their lives to raising, showing, and caring for dogs. Retirement was meant to be a time to slow down, but instead, it became an opportunity to deepen their connection to the pets and people they’ve always loved. With support from their daughter Fawn and close friend Justin MaddenRhinehart, LoneStar Pet Grooming was born—a business rooted in trust, transformation, and a strong commitment to pet wellness.
“FROM ANXIOUS PUPS TO show-ready companions , LONESTAR’S
Justin brought more than encouragement—he brought over 20 years of professional experience and a compassionate heart for grooming. Certified through NDGAA, ISCC, and TPPGA, he is known for his work with Cocker Spaniels and Australian Cattle Dogs, as well as his ability to connect with dogs of all temperaments. His calm, skillful approach helps even the most anxious pets feel safe, making him an essential part of LoneStar’s mission to provide respectful, individualized care.
While grooming techniques remain timeless, modern tools have elevated the experience. Today’s equipment is lighter, stronger, and more precise, allowing groomers to create stunning transformations with efficiency and care. Products have evolved as well, offering eco-conscious, coat-specific solutions that support healthier skin and coats. At LoneStar, every groom is more than a routine cleanup—it’s an art form, where pets leave feeling refreshed and confident.
What truly sets LoneStar apart is its dedicated team of highly trained groomers who prioritize ongoing education to stay ahead of industry trends while maintaining the highest standards of safety and care. From anxious pups to show-ready companions, LoneStar’s expert grooming transforms every visit into a moment of trust, confidence, and joy—for both the pets and the people who love them. Private grooming rooms provide a peaceful, one-on-one environment where nervous dogs become confident friends—proof that patience and kindness can work magic.
LoneStar has recently expanded to include professional dog training, helping pets not only look great but feel great too. Led by seasoned trainer Abbott R. Castle, the program offers everything from basic manners and puppy training to advanced obedience and service dog preparation. With years of hands-on experience and continued education, Abbott’s training methods emphasize confidence, communication, and positive reinforcement. Grooming and training go hand-in-hand at LoneStar. A well-trained dog is easier to groom, more relaxed during appointments, and enjoys better long-term health. The team believes in cooperative care—building trust between pets, their people, and professionals for a lifetime of wellness.
As LoneStar Pet Grooming celebrates its one-year anniversary, its vision for the future is bright. Barbara and Keith plan to expand services, welcome more talented professionals, and introduce curated wellness products to further enhance the lives of their clients’ beloved pets. Growth is exciting, but maintaining the personalized, heartfelt care that defines LoneStar will always be their top priority. For the Lupardus family, LoneStar is more than a business—it’s a dream fulfilled, a labor of love, and a place where pets—and their people—always leave with shear joy in their hearts.
This is more than a role; it’s a platform for purpose. City Lifestyle publishers step into something bigger: the freedom to lead, the fulfillment of impact, and the pride of building something that matters. The opportunity to lead with meaning is calling. Could your next chapter begin here?
Published by Rachel Loved by Porter
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SEBASTIAN RODRIGUEZ PROVES SMALL-TOWN BEGINNINGS CAN LEAD TO BIG-LEAGUE FUTURES.
ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH
When Sebastian Rodriguez steps onto the field in Houston Dynamo orange, he carries more than just talent; he carries a town. Raised in Riverwalk and shaped by the quiet grit of Porter, Sebastian’s story is rooted in small-town values: family, hard work, and heart. Long before signing as a Homegrown Player with the Dynamo, he was a kid riding to practices with parents who never missed a game, training on fields where dreams felt far away, but never out of reach.
“Porter’s not the biggest place,” Sebastian says, “but there’s a lot of heart here. I learned how to stay grounded and work for everything.” That mindset, planted early by coaches and mentors at Porter High School, pushed Sebastian to dream big. Their belief in him, even before he believed in himself, laid the foundation for the athlete and role model he’s become. He even committed to play at UCLA, but when the Houston Dynamo offered him a professional contract, he chose to follow the dream he’d had since childhood.
Sebastian’s journey began with Texanitos, a youth club based in Aldine. He joined the Dynamo Academy at age 10 and spent the next seven years working his way up. In 2023, at just 16 years old, he played 19 matches for Houston Dynamo 2—starting 12, logging over 1,000 minutes, and helping the team secure its second straight playoff run. He’s also been called up four times to the Mexican U18 National Team, proudly representing his heritage on an international stage.
But ask Sebastian what the highlight was, and he’ll tell you: signing day. “I’ve been wearing orange since I was 10,” he says. “To sign with the Dynamo, it was a dream come true.” For his parents, Patricia and Salvador, the moment was emotional. After years of sacrifice and support, it felt like a shared victory. “That was our win,” he says. “Not just mine.” The significance wasn’t lost on the Porter community either. Former coaches, friends, and mentors watched with pride as one of their own rose to the professional level, not just because of talent, but because of humility, discipline, and heart.
Now juggling online classes and professional training, Sebastian continues to push himself with the same determination that got him here. “Every tough practice is a step closer,” he says. “And someone out there is working just as hard, so I can’t slow down.”
His advice to young athletes? “Don’t let your zip code define your ceiling. Work like nobody sees you because one day they will.” “If a kid came up to me and said, ‘I want to be like you,’ I’d say, ‘Be better than me.’”
To the kids who dream of backyard goals and small-town sidelines, Sebastian is proof that where you start doesn’t limit where you can go. For the families in East Montgomery County searching for inspiration for their own children, his story is proof that big dreams can grow in small towns, especially when they’re rooted in love, hustle, and a whole lot of heart.
In a world that’s constantly connected and always buzzing, the East Montgomery County (EMC) Little Libraries offer a sweet pause—a chance to grab a book, share a story, and spread the love of reading. What began as a heartfelt 20th anniversary project by the local Rotary Club has blossomed into a joyful literacy movement across the county. The idea was sparked by then-president Melecio C. Franco, who wanted to commemorate the club’s two decades of service with a project that would give back in a lasting way. His vision? Twenty Little Libraries for twenty years—a goal that continues to grow, one small box of books at a time.
The very first Little Library was built with care by Porter High School students under the guidance of engineering teacher Robert Barham and found its home at Bull Sallas Park. A public ceremony introduced the concept to the community, and ever since, these colorful, book-filled boxes have become beloved local treasures.
Today, five vibrant libraries are tucked into high-traffic spots like King’s Colony, Patton Village, J&R’s Ace Hardware, Splendora City Park, and the original at Bull Sallas Park. While local Rotarians help stock the shelves, it’s the community that keeps them alive—neighbors drop off books, borrow novels, and sometimes keep a
ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS
favorite. That’s the magic of these Little Libraries: a give-and-take that keeps the pages turning.
Funding for the books has come from generous support, including a Rotary District Grant and a 2024 East Montgomery County Improvement District (EMCID) grant of $5,000, entirely dedicated to keeping the shelves full of great reads.
In a time when literacy often takes a back seat, these tiny libraries serve a big purpose. They’re a symbol of what happens when students, teachers, Rotarians, and neighbors come together to build something meaningful. Literacy remains a top priority for New Caney ISD, and with every book shared, the Rotary Club is helping grow a community of young readers and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.
ARTICLE BY RACHEL BURK
Before the highways and high schools, before chain restaurants and traffic lights, there was a quiet little building tucked off Loop 494, nestled among the pine trees. It didn’t look like much, just a modest daycare run by a young dad with a big heart. But over time, that little place would grow into something extraordinary. Founded in 1970 by Jacques Verron, Rocking Horse Daycare Centers is more than just the oldest locally-owned business still operated by its original founder—it’s a generational legacy woven into the fabric of East Montgomery County. What started as a solution for working families has become a place where thousands of children have learned, laughed, and been lovingly cared for.
Back then, Jacques was a father of two who saw a need— and chose to meet it with action. Local kids had no safe place to swim, so he built a pool. That single decision became symbolic of everything Rocking Horse stands for: see the need, lead with heart, and always do what’s best for the children. Today, that same heart guides all four Rocking Horse locations—Porter, New Caney, Splendora, and Kings Manor. Each center includes a swimming pool, and every enrolled child has the opportunity to receive swimming lessons. It’s a tradition rooted in Jacques’s original vision: keep kids safe, give them more, and meet every need with care and intention. That’s the kind of thoughtfulness that threads through every part of Rocking Horse’s mission.
“Founded in 1970 by Jacques Verron, Rocking Horse Daycare Centers is more than just the oldest locally-owned business still operated by its original founder— it’s a generational legacy woven into the fabric of East Montgomery County.”
But the impact stretches far beyond water safety. The Verron family has deep roots in the community. Four generations are now involved with the Porter location, whether through work or enrollment. Jaques is a lifetime member of the East Montgomery County Fair Association. The Verron family continues to give back to the community and the young people currently raising animals allowing them to learn the values of responsibility, discipline, and dedication. All sports programs are also supported in addition to other community engagement efforts. Both of Jacques’s sons, Jimmy and Michael, have served on their local school boards as well. This isn’t just a business, it’s a cornerstone of the community.
Step inside any Rocking Horse Center and you’ll feel it immediately—the joy. Classrooms are vibrant, filled with laughter, play, and age-appropriate learning activities. Kids are not just watched; they’re cherished, honored, and uplifted. With over 100 staff members, some of whom have been with Rocking Horse for 10 or even 20+ years, it’s a family, both in name and in practice.
Each location is thoughtfully built on 1.5 acres to provide children with space to explore and grow. There are indoor gyms, openair playgrounds, and a fleet of nine school buses that safely transport students to and from school or field trips. The centers even host a graduation ceremony that rivals any high school send-off, complete with caps, gowns, diplomas, slideshows, and celebrations for families to enjoy.
But make no mistake—while the heart is big, the standards are high. Rocking Horse is a proud member of Texas Rising Star, a quality rating program recognizing early learning centers that exceed state standards in health, safety, and education. Each staff member is CPR and First Aid certified, background-checked, drug-screened, and trained extensively in age-specific care, growth and development, and recognizing signs of abuse or neglect. The classrooms are clean, self-contained, and safe, with secure entry points, bathrooms with easy access for little ones, and toys and learning stations thoughtfully crafted for every age group.
Nutrition is another core value. As a participant in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), Rocking Horse provides full breakfasts, hot lunches, and afternoon snacks, all balanced across a four-week rotating menu that meets daily caloric and nutritional requirements for growing minds and bodies.
“Step inside any Rocking Horse Center and you’ll feel it immediately— the joy. Classrooms are vibrant, filled with laughter, play, and ageappropriate learning activities.”
More than a daycare, Rocking Horse is a true early learning center. Children are assessed on developmental milestones from birth to age four, and the curriculum is both fun and challenging—building not just academic skills, but also confidence, kindness, and a love for lifelong learning. Every day at Rocking Horse feels like a celebration of childhood—because it is.
When you walk through the doors, you’re not just enrolling your child; you’re joining a legacy built on love, learning, and community. You’re becoming part of something generations have trusted, grown up with, and come home to.
To learn more or to enroll your child in a location nearest you, visit www.rockinghorsecenters.com or call 281-354-3212
Come see why Rocking Horse is more than a daycare—it’s where childhood begins.
When the waters rise, so do we.
When disaster strikes, we show up for each other. Flooding across Texas has uprooted lives but hope is never far when neighbors come together ity ifestyle is helping identify and support those most affected Nominate
Paisley Russell’s Creative Spark
Paisley Russell never imagined that a classic car would unlock her confidence as an artist. When she entered the Leading Edge Art Contest, she wasn’t just putting her work on display; she was taking a leap into the unknown, trusting her instincts, and seeing where creativity could take her. Inspired by her parents' 1968 Ford Mustang, she transformed a cherished family memory into an award-winning piece that merged personal history with artistic exploration.
Classic cars had always been a part of Paisley’s life, but blending them with her artwork was something new. With encouragement from her art teachers and her dad, she crafted a design that wasn’t just visually striking but deeply meaningful. Every line and every shade was carefully considered—not just for accuracy, but to create an emotional connection. The process was both exciting and challenging, requiring her to refine each detail and ensure her vision translated onto the canvas. Through the ups and downs, she discovered that trusting her instincts was just as important as technical skill.
Winning the Leading Edge Art Contest was unexpected, but the moment she heard the news, everything changed. It wasn’t just about receiving an award—it was proof that stepping out of her comfort zone and creating without boundaries was worth the risk. This victory wasn’t just a recognition of her talent; it was a reminder that personal stories, when embraced fully, can lead to powerful artistic expression.
The experience has fueled Paisley’s passion for art and motivated her to keep pushing her creative limits. Next year, she’ll be taking two art classes at Porter High School and entering more contests to continue challenging herself. To young artists hesitant to share their work, she offers simple advice: “Fear is part of the process, but taking chances leads to incredible growth. Art thrives in courage, and the journey is always worth it.”
ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS
RIDING WITH HEART AT KISMET FARMS
Whether you’re stepping into the stirrups for the first time or returning to a lifelong passion, Kismet Farms offers more than riding lessons—it offers connection, confidence, and a welcoming place to grow. Nestled in a supportive, family-friendly environment, Kismet blends expert instruction with a deep love for horses, helping riders of all ages discover the joy of horsemanship from the ground up.
1. WHAT DOES THAT PROCESS LOOK LIKE FOR NEW RIDERS OR HORSE OWNERS COMING TO KISMET FARMS?
Our personalized training program begins with a guided tour of the facility. This allows prospective riders and horse owners to explore the grounds, learn about our programs, and ask questions before getting started.
ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE WILLIAMS & JERRY MOHME PHOTOGRAPHY
2. FOR THOSE NEW TO RIDING, WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT FROM THEIR FIRST LESSON AT KISMET FARMS?
Our lessons go beyond riding—they focus on full horsemanship and horse care. New students learn barn safety, grooming, and tacking up before riding. Instruction covers mounting, proper seat position, reins, and foundational skills like walking and steering. Each session ends with post-ride care and connection.
3. DO YOU WORK WITH ALL AGES AND SKILL LEVELS? IS THERE A GOOD AGE TO START RIDING?
Yes! We welcome riders of all experience levels, starting at age 6. Whether someone is brand new, returning after time away, or transitioning from another barn, we’re here to support them.
4. HOW DO YOU BALANCE COMPETITIVE GOALS WITH THE HAPPINESS AND WELL-BEING OF THE HORSES?
We prioritize exceptional horse care—premium nutrition, expert veterinary, dental, chiropractic, and farrier services. Our horses receive individualized attention, especially those in training or competition programs. After each show, they enjoy well-deserved time off to relax in the pasture.
5. DO YOUR RIDERS PARTICIPATE IN SHOWS OR COMPETITIONS?
Many riders choose to compete, but it’s always optional. We attend local and “A” rated shows across Texas, giving all skill levels a chance to grow, challenge themselves, and have fun.
6. IS OWNING A HORSE REQUIRED TO RIDE OR TRAIN WITH KISMET FARMS?
Not at all! We provide horses for our full-service program. As riders advance, they may choose to lease or eventually own, but we make starting out easy and accessible.
7. CAN STUDENTS LEASE HORSES THROUGH YOUR PROGRAM?
Yes—leasing is a great option for riders wanting more time in the saddle without full ownership responsibilities.
• Half Lease: Ride 2–3 times per week; horse stays in our lesson program.
• Full Lease: Ride 4–5 times weekly with full access to a horse in our training program; includes board, care, and training.
8. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE WHO’S ALWAYS DREAMED OF RIDING BUT IS NERVOUS TO START?
It’s normal to be nervous. Horses are big, and riding is new—but with patient instructors and calm horses, we’ll meet you where you are. You don’t need to be fearless—just willing to try.
9. HOW INVOLVED ARE PARENTS OR FAMILY MEMBERS IN THE LESSON/TRAINING EXPERIENCE?
We encourage families to stay involved and ask questions. Designated viewing areas are available for those who enjoy watching lessons, though we ask that parents not coach during trainer-led sessions to support focused learning.
10. HOW CAN SOMEONE SCHEDULE A VISIT AND SIGN UP FOR LESSONS?
For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact our Barn Manager at (346) 539-7691
Summertime is busy time, and that often means eating on the go. Whether you’re at constant baseball games or meeting up for a regular play date, you’re probably bringing food along with you to feed your crew. And there’s no meal that’s as on-the-go friendly as the peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
And don’t get me wrong — I love a PB&J. But months of eating anything can get a little old, and this summer, I started to wonder if there was a way to zhuzh up the ol’ standby.
I was actually inspired by a sandwich at one of my favorite places to eat. All the restaurant’s sandwiches feature cheese. So color me surprised when I found that they had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the menu — with the addition of sheep’s cheese. And cue more surprise when I discovered that it was absolutely delicious.
CHANGE UP YOUR PB&J GAME BY DISCOVERING NEW WAYS TO ENJOY THE OL’ STANDBY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE CURRID
All summer, I was craving this sandwich, a fresh PB&J sandwich on sourdough. I decided to try my own at home with what I had on hand, which was goat cheese. And it opened up a whole new world for me.
The PB&J with goat cheese started being my standard poolside sandwich this summer, and then I started talking to other people about it, spreading the gospel of the PB&J with cheese, and they would share their PB&J innovations with me. You could toast them! Put chips on them! Add bacon! The possibilities were endless.
The PB&J is so nostalgic and, yeah, sometimes, you just want a really basic one on white bread with grape jelly and creamy Jif like you had when you were a kid. But it’s also fun to be playful about it, which is nostalgic in its own way, too — being innovative and doing something a little weird or against the rules, just like when you were a kid.
Change up your bread: One easy way to liven up your sandwich is to use different bread. That sourdough you may have learned to make during the pandemic is a perfect bread to use, or you could opt for milk bread, a Japanese option that is fluffier and sweeter than white bread.
Get nutty: While most toddlers would balk at crunchy peanut butter, you’re an adult! You can try new things! If you don’t have the crunchy type on hand, you can also just add peanuts between your layers of peanut butter and jelly to get that crunchy fix.
Toast it: One of my favorite ways to make an “elevated” PB&J is to simply toast it. It’s really similar to grilled cheese — make your PB&J, and then spread some butter on the outside on both sides. Melt some butter in a pan and add your sandwich, flipping once browned. If you want to get really fancy, sprinkle some powdered sugar on before you cut into it. I promise it will be your new late-night craving.
Fresh fruit: This is probably the simplest way to up your PB&J game, since technically, you’ve already got fruit on your sandwich in the form of jelly. Try adding some smashed raspberries or cut strawberries to yours next time you make one!
Say cheese: As I said earlier, you’ve gotta try cheese on your PB&J. I’m a fan of goat cheese, specifically the honey variety, but plain versions or those with dried fruit are great, too. The trick is to set it out for 15-20 minutes before making your sandwich to soften it a bit, so it’s easier to spread on delicate bread.
AUGUST 1ST
All Trails Lead Home
21875 Zion Dr., Porter, TX 77365 | 10:00 AM
The Highlands Summer Home Tour begins 8/1 - 8/31. Find your way home! Tour an exciting selection of move-in ready homes. Stop by the visiting center fore more information.
AUGUST 2ND
Lake Houston Wilderness Park - 25840 FM 1485, New Caney, TX 77357 | 1:30 PM
Discover fascinating facts about North America’s largest reptile—the alligator! Join us at Joe Turner Nature Center for an educational presentation and meet live alligator ambassadors from Brazos Bend State Park. Free for kids under 13. $3 entrance fee for adults, unless military with ID or over 65.
AUGUST 3RD
New Caney Community Market
Valley Ranch Town Center - 11985 N Grand Parkway E, New Caney, TX 77357 | 11:00 AM
Visit New Caney Community Market in the Valley Ranch Town Center parking lot every 1st and 3rd Sunday, 11AM-3PM! We'll have local produce, meats, honey, baked goods, artisan-made goods, and so much more! newcaneymarket.com
AUGUST 9TH
Bull Sallas Park - 21675 McCleskey Rd., New Caney, TX 77357 | 10:00 AM
Shop, snack, and celebrate the community this weekend! Explore artisan goods, handmade quilts, boutique finds, farm-fresh eats, sweet treats, and more. From vintage boots to custom woodwork, there's something for everyone—plus handcrafted coffee, cool frozen desserts, and boba! Don’t miss this fun-filled market eve. Bring the family and support local makers! Saturday 10–5 & Sunday 10–4
AUGUST 14TH
R.B. Tullis Branch Library - 21569 U.S. Hwy 59, New Caney, TX | 10:00 AM
Who said coloring was only for kids? Come join us as we socialize and color together. All supplies provided. Require accommodations? Please ask at a service desk. All MCMLS Library programs are free and open to the public
AUGUST 23RD
Bull Sallas Park Show Barn - 21675 McCleskey Rd., New Caney, TX 77357 | 5:00 PM
Get ready for a powerful night of live music, family fun, and community impact - featuring performances by Sundance Head, Sunny Sauceda, and Ryder Grimes. All proceeds benefit the Flooded with Love Relief Disaster Fund, helping families recover from floods, fires, and other disasters - big or small. givebutter.com/c/FloodedWithLove25
1 ST - 31 ST
Buy a home in August and The Highlands will donate $200 to one of two charities: Your name will also be entered into the Grand Prize drawing for your choice of:
GRAND$10,000PRIZE VALUE BRAND-NEW GOLF CART or a LANDSCAPE PACKAGE for your new home