Porter, TX February 2026

Local Love Issue F E B R UA RY 2 02 6

STREET SWEEPING IN PRECINCT 4

936-597-4444 mctxpct4.org contactp4@mctx.org 23628 Roberts Road, New Caney, 77357

Precinct 4 is the largest precinct in Montgomery County and is responsible for the maintenance of 33% of all roads in the county. With the goal of being a responsible steward of county funds in mind, how we maintain our roads determines the quality and lifespan of the roadway, and ultimately how much funding needs to be put towards repairing a road.

At the beginning of 2025, Commissioner Gray added a street sweeper to Precinct 4's fleet of equipment. Not only does street sweeping clean up the roadways, it helps prevent dirt and debris from accumulating and clogging storm drains. This maintenance ultimately prolongs the streets’ lifespan while also improving safety. If you see the sweeper out and about in your neighborhood, please avoid parking on the roadway and use caution when driving around the equipment!

“During my time in office, I have focused on improving our operational efficiency and ways to save tax payer dollars while providing top quality customer service to the constituents of East Montgomery County. Purchasing a street sweeper is just one more way we are improving the way we maintain our roads and cleaning up East Montgomery County.”

-Commissioner Matt Gray

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Community, Connection, and Care Hello Neighbors!

Local love isn’t loud. It doesn’t ask for attention. It shows up quietly, through small businesses built on faith and family, teachers who go beyond the lesson plan, neighbors who gather, serve, and support one another when it matters most.

In this issue of Porter City Lifestyle, we’re celebrating the people and places that make our community feel like home. The ones who pour their hearts into what they do, not for recognition, but because they believe our community is worth investing in. You’ll meet educators inspiring students to dream bigger, business owners creating spaces rooted in purpose, and families building meaningful connections one conversation, one cup of coffee, and one shared experience at a time. These stories remind us that love for a community isn’t just spoken; it’s lived.

Local Love is about showing up. It’s about choosing connection over convenience, people over profit, and intention over routine. It’s about the relationships that strengthen us and the passion that keeps our community growing. Thank you for supporting local, for sharing these stories, and for being part of what makes our community such a special place to live, work, and love.

It has been our pleasure to bring you moments each month, frozen in time and captured with the turn of each page. Every issue was created with love for those who are part of it. Telling your stories has been the magic that has spread through our little town, holding onto the nostalgia that we remember growing up here, but also celebrating the growth and changes we see every day. Rachel and I will be passing the torch to a new publisher and editor with the next issue, and we’re excited to see what’s ahead for Porter City Lifestyle. With a ton of Local Love and shared blessings, we are signing off.

R A C H E L B U R K A N D S TA C Y L E A C H @PORTERCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2026 PUBLISHER

Rachel Burk | rachel.burk@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Stacy Leach | stacy.leach@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Jamie Allgood | jamie.allgood@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Stacy Leach | stacy.leach@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amber Dobyns, Rachel Burk C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Unscripted Branding Co., George Dowdy, Shouting Grounds Coffee Company

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Porter City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Porter area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/PORTER

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Porter City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 6 | LOV E LO CA L

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Featured

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18 22 26 6

A Heartfelt Escape

How San Miguel de Allende Paints the Perfect Picture of Culture and Craft

Pages That Hold Us

A mother’s vision for connection, reflection, healing, and generational growth.

A Cup of Community

A cozy, faith-filled coffeehouse where worship, community, and hospitality meet.

Taking Learning to New Heights How hands-on aviation education is changing lives.

22 On the Cover

Departments

A fresh cup poured with purpose at Shouting Grounds Coffee Company, where bold brews, warm hands, and faithful hearts come together inviting the community to slow down, savor the moment, and gather around something meaningful.

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Travel Journal TRAVEL

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Must See WELLNESS

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Trend Setter FOOD + BEVERAGE

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Inspired By EDUCATION

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Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Photography: Shouting Grounds Coffee Company

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How To LIFE + CULTURE

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Events

“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.

Expect more from your bank.

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.

Let’s Connect 1213 Kingwood Drive Kingwood, Texas 77339 Tel (281) 359-6468 themint.bank

FEBRUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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MONTGOMERY COUNTY PRECINCT 4

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H-TOWN DREAM CENTER

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PORTER CITY LIFESTYLE

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DONNIE LEACH

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JAMIE ALLGOOD

VALLEY RANCH

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VALLEY RANCH

1: PCL enjoyed a great lunch alongside our valued partners. 2: Commissioner Gray shares one of his favorite books with students at Crippen Elementary. 3: Over 1,000 gifts given at the MoCo Christmas Bash, spreading smiles, hope, and community joy. 4: Porter High School brought the sparkle to the 4th Annual NCISD Holiday Parade. 5: PCL’s Jamie Allgood honored as 2025 Diplomat of the Year by Greater EMC Chamber proudly. 6: The Jingle & Mingle Night Market was unforgettable thanks to our community and amazing music. 7: The Jingle & Mingle Night Market brought neighbors together for a festive night of laughter.

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C I T Y SC E N E

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FEBRUARY 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Beth Wood steps in to GM Role at Club Studio

LTW Travel Grows Team Across Houston

Beth Wood is welcomed as the new General Manager of Club Studio. With a passion for people, leadership, and wellness, Beth brings a strong vision for creating an elevated fitness experience and a supportive community.

Her dedication to member success and team development makes her an exciting addition, and we look forward to the positive impact she will have on Club Studio.

Hope Pullen is welcomed to the LTW Travel team. With extensive experience planning all-inclusive resort vacations, Disney trips, and cruises, Hope brings valuable expertise and a passion for creating memorable travel experiences. Her attention to detail and personalized approach help clients travel with confidence and ease.

We’re excited to see how her knowledge enhances the LTW Travel team and supports unforgettable journeys.

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H O W S A N M I G U E L D E A L L E N D E PA I N T S T H E P E R F E C T P I C T U R E O F C U LT U R E A N D C R A F T ARTICLE BY RACHEL BURK

A HEARTFELT

ESCAPE This February, as the air fills with the warmth of Valentine’s Day and love is on our minds, let’s look beyond our community borders to a place that embodies the spirit of romance in every colorful cobblestone, every culinary delight, and every stroke of an artist’s brush: San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

A relatively easy trip south, this UNESCO World Heritage city in the heart of Mexico is more than a destination; it's a sensory pilgrimage for the soul. It is a city that doesn’t just host art—it is a work of art, a place that truly understands what it means to cherish its own unique culture. If you’re looking for a future travel idea that marries breathtaking beauty, deep culture, and incredible food, continue reading as the picture is painted of this magical place.

THE PALETTE OF A CITY

Imagine stepping onto streets paved with ancient cobblestones, where the colonial architecture is a riot of warm, autumnal hues—ochres, rust reds, deep oranges, and cheerful yellows. Here, the buildings are not merely painted; they are dressed in bold, vibrant colors that seem to glow under the perpetually sunny, clear sky.

The centerpiece of this vibrant tableau is the magnificent Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. Its soaring, pink neo-Gothic spires rise dramatically above the central plaza, El Jardín, looking like something plucked from a European fairy tale. This is the heart of the city—a bustling square shaded by Laurel of India trees, where locals and visitors mingle, get their shoes shined, and simply watch the world go by. It’s where the pulse of San Miguel de Allende beats slowest and truest.

As the day unfolds, San Miguel shifts with the light. Morning casts a gentle glow over the cobblestones, softening the city’s bold colors. By midday, the sun sharpens every hue, bringing warmth and energy to the streets. In the evening, lanterns flicker on, music drifts from open doors, and the city settles into a quieter rhythm—inviting you to linger, wander, and simply be present.

But the real magic happens in the details.

Every corner is a mini gallery. Wrought-iron gates offer tantalizing glimpses into hidden courtyards, where bougainvillea in shocking magenta and fiery red cascades over stone walls, turning private spaces into lush, secret gardens. Even small alleyways beckon, revealing tiny cafes tucked behind arched doorways or quiet plazas where locals play dominoes and share stories.

CONTINUED >

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A CULTURE STEEPED IN CRAFT

San Miguel de Allende has long been a haven for artists, writers, and creative spirits from around the globe, yet it remains fiercely dedicated to its Mexican heritage.

It’s felt in the air—an inspiring energy that encourages creation.

The first stop must be Fabrica La Aurora, a former textile mill transformed into a sprawling, inspiring art and design center. As you wander through its sunlit industrial spaces, you'll discover over 40 galleries and studios showcasing everything from contemporary painting and glass sculpture to beautiful furniture and folk art. You can watch artists at work, chat about their process, and perhaps bring home a piece that holds the soul of Mexico.

What makes the creative culture here so compelling is its reverence for process. Many artisans work using techniques passed down through generations, valuing patience over speed. Each piece reflects intention and care, a reminder that true craftsmanship isn’t rushed. In San Miguel, creativity is not just expression—it’s preservation, storytelling, and love for tradition.

Beyond the galleries, the city’s heart is on display at the Mercado de Artesanías (Artisan Market). Here, local vendors fill stalls with exquisite handicrafts: hand-blown glass, intricate silver jewelry, colorful textiles, and the famed mojigangas—giant, whimsical papier-mâché puppets that are iconic to local celebrations. Taking home a piece of artisanal pottery isn't just a souvenir; it's an investment in the skill and tradition of the local community. The mojigangas aren’t just for show—they’re a living part of celebrations, paraded through the streets during festivals, adding movement, humor, and storytelling to the city’s vibrant culture.

TASTES THAT TELL A STORY

And then there is the food. San Miguel is not just an art city; it's a culinary powerhouse.

The commitment to “Love Local” extends wonderfully to the kitchen, with a vibrant

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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

farm-to-table movement that honors regional flavors while embracing global innovation.

You can start your day with a classic Mexican breakfast at a local cafe, enjoying conchas (fluffy, sweet bread) with a cup of rich, locally sourced coffee. For lunch, nothing beats the authentic, sizzling street tacos found late in the evening at spots favored by locals.

Meals in San Miguel are rarely hurried.

Tables become gathering places where conversations stretch, plates are shared, and time seems to slow. Food here is an act of connection, honoring family recipes, local farmers, and the joy of being together—an experience as nourishing as it is memorable.

San Miguel’s dining scene is famous for its stunning rooftop terraces – a true experience. Imagine sipping a glass of local Mexican wine or a perfectly crafted margarita while the setting sun bathes the Parroquia’s pink stone in a golden light. Rooftop spots like Luna or La Azotea offer not just a meal, but a show—a truly romantic and unforgettable way to connect with the city. For a deeper dive, consider a hands-on cooking class, learning to master the complex, rich flavors of traditional Mexican sauces like mole.

YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

San Miguel de Allende is an invitation to slow down, wander, and let the colors, the history, and the warmth of the people fill your heart. The gentle rhythms of daily life here, the artistry woven into every corner, and the culinary delights that celebrate both innovation and tradition—these combine to create a destination that is unforgettable in every sense of the word. Long after you return home, the feeling stays with you—an echo of beauty, presence, and connection that calls you back again. It’s a place that asks you to fall in love—with its beauty, its culture, and the art of living well. It’s a profound reminder of how deeply one can love a place that cherishes its own local heart and soul.

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HOLD US

PAGES THAT

A MOTHER’S VISION FOR CONNECTION, REFLECTION, HEALING, A N D G E N E R AT I O N A L G R O W T H .

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS PHOTOGRAPHY BY UNSCRIPTED BRANDING CO.

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M UST SE E | W EL L NES S

There’s a quiet kind of magic that happens when a mother and daughter slow down together. In a world of school schedules, work deadlines, endless notifications, those moments of stillness can feel almost impossible... but they matter. They matter because they’re where trust grows, where voices are heard, and where relationships become something deeper than logistics and carpool conversations. That’s the heartbeat behind Angela Pointer Hare’s two journals: Dare to Dream for adolescent girls, and The Mama Manual for moms. The journals can be used in combination or alone.

Angela’s vision began at home when her oldest daughter was eight. She noticed a bright, capable child holding so much inside, and recognized her own hesitations in big, face-to-face conversations. To bridge the gap, they tried a shared journal. A quiet exchange left under pillows that gradually shifted everything.

Written words lowered the pressure, nudged courage forward, and gave both Angela and her daughter the space to think and respond with intention. What began as a simple tool became a connection, first on paper and then beyond the pages in real life.

That experience inspired Dare to Dream, crafted for girls ages seven to thirteen as a space that belongs entirely to them. As the journal took shape, another truth surfaced: daughters often grow within the limits of their mothers’ unhealed stories. The Mama Manual emerged as a parallel path, inviting women to rediscover their voice so their daughters can trust, communicate, and flourish. Each journal is complete on its own, while offering a richer experience when used together.

The Mama Manual was created because Angela recognized that mothers need a space of their own. While Dare to Dream is a girl-led journal that can open communication with mom, The Mama Manual is designed exclusively for mothers, focusing on inner work, healing, and personal transformation. Its tone is tender yet direct, guiding women through self-reflection, healing, and gentle goal-setting with prompts that explore triggers, childhood influences, and the kind of relationship they dream of building. It is less about doing and more about becoming.

Becoming grounded, compassionate, and emotionally available.

Ten minutes a day offers something rare: a pause, a reconnection with the woman behind the title mom. At its core, when a mother grows, the whole family grows with her.

A girl’s confidence grows in the ordinary rhythm of these pages.

A daily coloring space provides younger girls a soothing way to settle their nervous systems and ease into reflection; it turns big feelings into something manageable and even comforting. Playful prompts like imagining a day as President stretch agency and possibility, inviting girls to see themselves as leaders whose ideas matter. Other questions, such as identifying qualities that feel good in a friend, quietly build discernment, offering a compass for relationships and the permission to choose connections that nourish rather than drain.

Families using the journals often discover more than they expected. Hidden fears surface gently, forgotten memories return like soft light, and small, hard-won victories finally find their way onto the page. Girls practice courage in handwriting, CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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“These journals aren’t about perfection or Pinterest-worthy parenting; they are about presence. They invite families to slow down, to write instead of rushing, to listen instead of assuming, and create a private space where honesty feels safe...”

pride in small moments, and clarity about boundaries. Mothers gain language for old patterns, notice the origins of their triggers, and feel steadier guiding hard conversations. Over time, the dialogue that starts in the journal migrates into everyday life in car rides, bedtime chats, and kitchen-table moments, creating a feeling that the relationship itself is a living, breathing thing worthy of care.

These journals aren’t about perfection or Pinterest-worthy parenting; they are about presence. They invite families to slow down, to write instead of rushing, to listen instead of assuming, and create a private space where honesty feels safe and vulnerability feels possible. For girls, that doorway can be transformative; for moms, the quiet reflection nurtures clarity and compassion.

Angela’s hope is generational healing: girls who grow up knowing their voice matters at home and mothers who feel supported rather than weighed down by guilt or performance.

The legacy she envisions is a new emotional foundation, a

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M UST SE E | W EL L NES S

connection that lasts, confidence that sticks, and a relationship that truly feels like home. Dare to Dream meets a girl exactly where she is, whether coloring through big feelings at eight or exploring identity at thirteen. The Mama Manual meets a mother in her own season of becoming, helping her lead with heart. Side by side, they form a practice of mutual respect: two journals, two voices, one shared table.

Across our community, the journals become small rituals; a notebook slid across the kitchen island, a colored page on a nightstand, a question answered after practice. Simple in form, they compound in impact. Page by page, mothers and daughters build a shared language and steady, trusting connection day by day.

If there is one message to carry forward, it is this: your connection is worth protecting, and your voices matter. Slow down, grab a pen, and write it down. The story you build now becomes the foundation she carries into the rest of her life, and the one you carry back to yourself.

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A CUP OF

COMMUNITY A cozy, faith-filled coffeehouse where worship, community, and hospitality meet.

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHOUTING GROUNDS COFFEE COMPANY In a world that moves fast, Shouting Grounds Coffee Company invites you to slow down, sip deeply, and savor something special. This cozy corner of New Caney was brewed from a calling to create a space where neighbors could gather, friendships could flourish, and

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T R E N D SE T T E R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

every cup poured with purpose. From the very first day, the prayer has been simple: that every guest who walks through these doors feels the warmth of Christ’s love in every smile, every conversation, and every beverage.

Inspired by Psalm 100:1, “Shout for joy to the Lord all the earth,” Shouting Grounds is steeped in worship and joy. The vintage instruments and hymnals scattered throughout the shop remind us that this isn’t just a coffeehouse; it’s a place where faith and fellowship blend like the perfect roast. And while the coffee is bold and beautiful, the scratch-made cinnamon rolls have been a crowd-pleaser, selling out almost daily.

Community is the heartbeat at Shouting Grounds with coffee beans sourced by Vertere Coffee in Porter, pastries crafted by a local Cypress bakery, and shelves lined with handmade treasures from nearby artisans.

Every sip and every purchase supports our neighbors, making Shouting Grounds a true labor of local love.

But the richest offering isn’t on the menu; it’s the free Bibles available for anyone who wants one. It’s the free drip coffee for first responders in uniform who serve

“Because at Shouting Grounds, community isn’t just the flavor of the month; it’s the whole blend of what happens when faith, fellowship, and a really good cup of coffee come together.” sacrificially. It’s the countless prayers whispered behind the counter for the people who walk in weary and leave refreshed.

And it’s the overwhelming support from locals who share, tag, and spread the word.

Through every challenge, the owners have leaned on the Lord, trusting His provision for every bean and blessing, encouraging others to start with prayer and let God pour into their plans. Looking ahead, they dream of creating more space for gatherings, because at Shouting Grounds, community isn’t just the flavor of the month; it’s the whole blend of what happens when faith, fellowship, and a really good cup of coffee come together. Here, joy is brewing, and there’s always room at the table.

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TA K ING L E A R NING T O NE W HE IGH T S HOW HANDS-ON AVIATION EDUCATION IS CHANGING LIVES.

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE DOWDY

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I NSP IR E D BY | EDUCATI ON

When George Dowdy walked into his classroom at Porter High School (PHS), he carried more than textbooks; he carried a vision ready for takeoff. As a lifelong student of flight, inspired by everything from Leonardo Da Vinci’s early sketches to the daring Wright Brothers, Dowdy dreamed of giving his students an aviation experience that soared beyond theory. Recognizing that few young people are exposed to opportunities in aviation, he set out to change that. His solution was bold and hands-on: build a real aircraft, piece by piece, right in the classroom.

This ambitious idea didn’t just taxi down the runway; it climbed to cruising altitude thanks to a partnership with Tango Flight, a nonprofit that provides schools with the resources to construct airworthy planes. This project was transforming education. Students enter the program with aerospace engineering prerequisites, giving them the foundation to transition from classroom concepts to hands-on construction. Over five semesters, three groups of students built the first plane. The second, recently completed, involved four groups, and the third begins in January.

Planning was meticulous, with months of meetings with district stakeholders. Mr. Dowdy helped lay the groundwork, while Tango Flight handled logistics like ordering parts and managing insurance. Community mentors, airline captains, mechanics, and private pilots joined the effort, offering expertise and real-world insight to the PHS students. These relationships became a cornerstone of the project, giving students more than just wind beneath their wings, but role models and perspectives beyond the classroom.

The build itself was no small feat. One of the toughest challenges came with crafting the canopy. Students had to hand-lay 15 layers of fiberglass onto an aluminum frame, which demanded both precision and artistry. This step required an exceptional eye for detail and patience, pushing students beyond basic skills. Watching them progress from having no experience with riveted sheet metal construction to becoming highly competent builders capable of leading their peers was the most rewarding part of the process. By the end, their confidence had truly taken flight.

Beyond technical prowess, the project instilled resilience. Students didn’t just learn persistence; they powered through challenges that once looked like mountains at cruising altitude, proving they could climb higher than they ever imagined. Each rivet and every layer of fiberglass became a lesson in grit. By the time the wheels were up, their confidence was soaring, ready to break through the clouds. Many alumni have pursued aviation careers, spreading their wings to become pilots, mechanics, and aerospace engineers.

Now, the second plane is ready for certification, and Mr. Dowdy will log the test flight hours, then give each student the ultimate reward: a chance to take the controls. “They’ll experience their hard work coming to life,” he says with pride. That’s a moment guaranteed to leave the students' spirits sky-high.

This project is more than an aircraft; it’s a testament to what education can be. New Caney ISD champions project-based learning, and this plane sets a new standard. Mr. Dowdy extends special thanks to mentors Richard Baltera, Tim Grassman, John Leon, and Gregory Sokoloski. When students are given the tools to soar, they don’t just build planes—they build futures.

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PERMISSION to be

cheesy

VALENTINE’S DAY CHEESECAKE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE SUPPES Valentine’s Day is all about showing your loved one just how much you care. Rather than opting for the predictable chocolates and flowers, why not showcase your culinary prowess and create a one-of-a-kind cheesecake? Not only will this delectable treat demonstrate your affection, but it will also add a personal and luxurious touch

to the holiday celebration. Make this Valentine’s Day truly memorable by going above and beyond with a heartfelt, homemade gift. Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for two because it’s both rich and indulgent, but not too heavy. Plus, it can be easily customized to fit your own personal taste and it’s much easier than you think!

TO MAKE THE PERFECT CHEESECAKE, YOU’LL NEED: • • • •

1 pound cream cheese, softened • 1/2 cup sour cream 1 cup sugar • 1/2 cup heavy cream 3 eggs • 1 prepared graham cracker crust 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Next, add in the sour cream and heavy cream and mix until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is set. Let cool completely before serving.

For this recipe, we decided to add berries and honey to the top of our cheesecake. Take the time to make yours special to your relationship. With toppings such as chocolate, jelly, whip cream, berries, fruit, or whatever your partner’s favorite is you’re sure to make them smile. Make things colorful by adding food coloring to the mix, it can even be made in their

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

favorite color. You can also change things up by making your own crust with Oreos or cinnamon crackers.

To elevate this recipe to the next level, consider using high-quality ingredients such as grass-fed cream cheese and locally sourced honey. For added luxury, try using a blend of different types of berries, or even substituting the graham cracker crust with a crust made of crushed pistachios or hazelnuts.

In addition to adding a variety of toppings, you can also get creative with the presentation. For example, try using a springform pan to create a heart-shaped cheesecake, or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes out of the cheesecake slices. You can also garnish the cheesecake with edible flowers or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a truly indulgent experience.

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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Date Night AT HOME THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL

Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.

ROMANTIC PICNIC UNDER THE STARS

PAINT AND CREATE TOGETHER

Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance.

A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.

Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water.

Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting stars. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.

Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!

• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.

• Work on a collaborative painting each person adds their own touch to a single canvas.

• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.

Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at painting - it’s all about enjoying the process together.

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H OW TO | L I FE + C ULTUR E

BREAKFAST IN BED

Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board.

Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.

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FEBRUARY 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

F EB RUA RY 1 ST

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! Www.newcaneymarket.com F EB RUA RY 7 T H

Montgomery County Market Days Strawberry Festival Bull Sallas Park - 21675 McCleskey Rd, New Caney, TX 77357 | 10:00 AM Strawberry season meets Valentine’s vibes at Montgomery County Market Days. Shop incredible local vendors, find gift-worthy treasures, enjoy live music, food trucks, and fun contests all day. This family-friendly festival invites couples, friends, and families to come early, stay late, shop small, and soak in festive energy. Claim your free tickets: https://MCMD-StrawberryFestival.eventbrite.com F EB RUA RY 1 3T H

Women's Wellness Event Industrious Spring - 4489 Riley Fuzzel, Spring, TX 77386 | 5:30 PM Designed to welcome the strong community of women to gather and discuss whole-body health in a fun and informative way. Attendees will learn key info about women’s hormones, explore services by Pout Medspa, discuss mental health milestones, and possibly find a new gym home for the new year in an empowering, educational setting.

RE!

O NEW ST

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EVE N TS

281.506.4006 | PoutMedSpa.com F E BRUA RY 2 0 T H

Valley Ranch Round Up The Grove - 11985 N Grand Parkway E, New Caney, TX 77357 | 3:00 PM Giddy up for family fun at the Valley Ranch Round Up! Kick off the season with a free, Texas-style afternoon of western-themed excitement at The Grove. Enjoy live music, photo-ops, a petting zoo, face painting, balloon twisting, and a mechanical bull. Connect with neighbors, celebrate community, and make lasting memories.

F E BRUA RY 2 1 ST

Nature's Recyclers Lake Houston Wilderness Park 25840 FM 1485, New Caney, TX 77357 | 1:30 PM Ever wonder what happens to fallen trees or leftover leaves? Discover the world of decomposers, how they break down organic matter, and meet the “fun-guys” that make it happen.

Join this hands-on public program at Joe Turner Nature Center in Lake Houston Wilderness Park. Groups under 15 welcome; larger groups should contact Teresa Holbrook to schedule a private program.

F E BRUA RY 2 3 RD

EMCID's Officers of the Year Ceremony The Nathaniel Center - 804 Russell Palmer, Kingwood, TX 77339 | 6:00 PM Former Navy SEAL Will Chesney, handler of military working dog Cairo and veteran of elite missions including the Bin Laden operation, will headline EMCID’s Police Appreciation Dinner. The evening honors Chesney’s service and recognizes local law enforcement officers for their courage, dedication, and commitment to community safety.

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