Porter, TX June 2024

Here's to the Men!

As June graces us with its warmth, we proudly present our "Gentlemen's Issue,". Have you ever wondered, “Do fathers matter? What differences do I make in my home as a dad?” Let’s start with the simple answer — the importance of a father is tremendous! Fathers make countless differences in their homes and families.

One of my favorite things about my dad is watching and listening to how tickled he gets when one of his children succeeds. Even as my brothers have become grown men, he still likes to brag on their skills whether it be their recent promotions, plays in a game, or placing in a BBQ cook-off. His pride in us may be unspoken at times, but the warmth of his love shines through in every unspoken moment. In this issue, we're sharing one of my family's all-time favorite recipes for any gathering. Treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of brisket queso, a delicious blend of smoky richness and creamy decadence. Dive into the wonderful layers of flavor and texture in this elevated comfort food, ideal for enjoying with friends and loved ones on relaxed summer afternoons.

With the sun calling us outside, let's embrace the journey to fitness and well-being. Join us on the fairways as we delve into the intricacies of the golf swing, unlocking the secrets to precision and power. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an enthusiast, our expert tips and insights will elevate your game and ignite your passion for the sport.

We're highlighting inspirational men who have made a difference in shaping lives with their wisdom, courage, and resilience. From mentors and role models to fathers and friends, their stories serve as powerful reminders to pursue greatness and uphold the values of honor and integrity. Finally, we celebrate one of the truly great talents in our hometown, shining a spotlight on an amazing artist who enriches our community with his creativity and passion.

Dear readers, as you dive into our "Gentlemen's Issue," we hope you discover inspiration, enlightenment, and a fresh sense of purpose. Here's to honoring the gentlemen among us, embracing their values with grace and humility. And to all the dads out there, Thank You! Your presence is invaluable to those who know and rely on you, as well as the wider community.

Happy Father’s Day!

STACY LEACH, EDITOR @PORTERCITYLIFESTYLE

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Rachel Burk | rachel.burk@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Stacy Leach | stacy.leach@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jamie Allgood | jamie.allgood@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stacy Leach, Amber Dobyns, Kennedy Nobles, Rachel Burk

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Fireheart Photography & Three Little Chickadees

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh Learn

Manage your money 24/7 with MobileMINT. Whether you need to check your balance, pay a bill or transfer funds, MobileMINT has you covered. Discover the advantages of having your bank on your phone, wherever you go.

•

• It’s Convenient – Availability to your account information 24/7.

•

JUNE 2024

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Lots of families enjoy the hiking trails at the Lake Houston Wilderness Park. 2: Families love exploring the natural beauty of The Preserve at The Highlands. 3: Magnolia Patio + Pool celebrates their membership in the GEMC Chamber with a Ribbon Cutting. 4: Blo Bar Woodson’s Reserve celebrates their membership in the GEMC Chamber with a Ribbon Cutting. 5: Commissioner Gray’s annual State of the Precinct was a success. Thanks to all who attended! 6: The 4th Annual East Montgomery County Buyers Group crawfish boil was a huge success! 7: Hershell Golden Band performing for a huge crowd at the Cody Bassett Memorial.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

RAY VADEN

THE HIGHLANDS BY CALDWELL COMMUNITIES GEMCC

GEMCC

Dryer Vent Authority Expands Services

Exciting news! We’re expanding our services to include AC Air Duct Cleaning! Say goodbye to dust and allergens lurking in your vents. Keep your home’s air fresh and clean with our thorough and professional cleaning. Call/Text us today to schedule your appointment and breathe easier! houstondryerventauthority.com

Hardy Webster Dental Expands

Dr. Kirk Webster of Hardy Webster Dental is excited to announce the recent acquisition of Dr. Larry Kyte’s dental practice in Kingwood. Dr. Kyte has proudly served the community for over thirty years, and we are committed to continuing his legacy of excellent dental care. We warmly welcome all of Dr. Kyte’s patients and look forward to meeting new faces in our expanded office. humble-dental.com

Magnolia Patio + Pool Has a New

Face

Say Hello to Danielle Welsh, our new Client Loyalty Specialist! She will be cultivating strong relationships and ensuring client satisfaction through personalized care and exceptional service. Danielle brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our field of work and we are excited to have her on the team. coveredpatiosmagnoliatx.com

Scan to read more Scan to read more

HOT WHEEL DREAMS TO REAL WHEEL DREAMS ARE

SHARED AMONGST US.

When quality matters, and your car holds your dreams, there’s no better company to care for it like you do than Leading Edge. Contact us today to schedule your mobile detailing service or for a ceramic coating appointment to protect that dream.

Meet Melissa Reyes: The Skincare Maven at Health in Progress

Health in Progress offers a haven where beauty meets wellness, led by esthetician Melissa Reyes. With cutting-edge techniques and a passion for holistic skincare, Melissa redefines beauty norms and empowers clients through personalized treatments. From truSculpt ID for body sculpting to Glacial Rx CryoAesthetics and MiraDry for underarm sweat, Melissa’s expertise and genuine care create transformative experiences, fostering selflove and acceptance in every client journey. healthinprogress.net

The Operator’s TRAINING

PEAK FITNESS FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE

ARTICLE BY RACHEL BURK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THREE LITTLE CHICKADEES

Television has been such a proponent in exemplifying what the community thinks a S.W.A.T. team does. In 2007, The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, commissioned a full time team for our county. Comprised of twelve full time team members, with an additional sixteen as collateral duty, their responsibilities include special threat situations, such as barricaded subjects, hostage rescue, acts of terrorism, high-risk warrant service, and fugitive apprehension 365 days a year.

Full-time members are also Task Force Officers, attached to the United States Marshal Service - Gulf Coast Violent Offender and Fugitive Task Force, a multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional approach of enhanced violent crime enforcement for the Gulf Coast Region. It is designed to investigate, locate and apprehend potentially violent suspects. S.W.A.T., along with three permanently assigned United States Deputy Marshals, targets for arrest those individuals who represent the most danger to the community on a daily basis.

The full time S.W.A.T. team must be ready 24/7 should any situation arise, and that means staying in peak condition both mentally and physically. The men of the team focus on a multifaceted approach to training.

STRENGTH

Physical strength is crucial for enhancing physical capabilities, improving resilience, and ensuring optimal performance in highstress situations, promoting operational effectiveness and safety.

ENDURANCE

Endurance for the teams builds stamina, enhances cardiovascular health, and fosters sustained performance during prolonged missions, ensuring operational effectiveness and the ability to handle challenging scenarios. When those suspects run, the guys have to be ready.

MARKSMANSHIP

Being an expert marksman is imperative. This competency hones precision, enhances firearm skills, and fosters critical decision-making under pressure, ensuring accuracy, safety, and effectiveness in high-risk situations.

AGILITY

Agility training for the teams fosters quick reactions, enhances mobility, and improves flexibility, enabling swift and adaptive responses in dynamic, high-intensity environments, crucial for mission success and personnel safety.

SUNDANCE HEAD’S JOURNEY THROUGH MUSIC AND MEMORIES

Echoes of Resilience

ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIREHEART PHOTOGRAPHY

““He continues to reinvent himself, each transformation marking a step in his ongoing journey of growth and change.”

In the heart of Porter, Texas, where the San Jacinto River winds its way through the town, Sundance Head's journey began. Born in 1978, he was raised amidst the familiar sights and sounds of the River Club and River Ridge neighborhoods, off the beaten path of Sorters Road. Sundance's childhood was shaped by the rhythm of his father's career, spending many nights at his bar, Roy Head's Branding Iron Saloon, a local landmark that welcomed friends and neighbors. From an early age, Sundance was immersed in the harmonies of music and the warmth of community.

While relishing the laughter and camaraderie of small-town life, Sundance faced his share of challenges. At just nine years old, tragedy struck with the loss of his older brother, Mike, in a car accident. Yet, music became his refuge amidst the grief Sundance faced. He found comfort in the melodies that echoed through the woods and the lyrics that poured from his soul. With each chord strummed and each lyric penned, Sundance found a way to navigate the depths of his emotions, with guidance from his mom, channeling his experiences into melodies. His friend Kevin Walker's home became a sanctuary for creativity. But tragedy struck once again when Kevin passed, leaving Sundance grappling with yet another loss. Memories of childhood friends lost too soon, like Lori Caldwell, and the losses endured from the flood of ‘94 lingered in the air, forever connecting him to the neighborhood.

Through the highs and lows, Sundance found unwavering support in his parents, Roy and Carolyn Head. Their love and encouragement in the darkest times nurtured his musical talent, shaping him

into the artist he is today. From early performances at the Nowhere Lounge to the solemn serenity of being baptized at the Victorian Christian Center, Sundance's journey was marked by the enduring presence of family and faith.

Navigating the twists and turns of adulthood, Sundance embraced the responsibilities of parenthood with the same devotion and dedication he learned from his parents. He strives to be the kind of parent his children can admire and respect. You can get a glimpse of that in the song he wrote for his daughter Percy, Baby (My Girl). When he is home, you will catch him cheering on The Eagles watching both Levi and Percy. Embarking on 26 years together, Sundance finds inspiration in his wife Misty, she is the true catalyst of his being. He pours his heart and soul into his music, using each song as a canvas to express his deepest emotions and experiences. With each note breathed, he wears his heart on his sleeve, creating music that speaks to the soul and touching hearts, inspiring listeners to embrace the beauty of life's journey.

As he looks to the future, Sundance is ready to write the next chapter of his story with a renewed passion for music and art. He continues to reinvent himself, each transformation marking a step in his ongoing journey of growth and change. From the depths of grief to the heights of joy, his music reflects his life's memories – raw, honest, and undeniably powerful. Supported by family and friends, Sundance forges his musical legacy. His youngest son Brazos shines brightly, destined to leave his mark on this world by following in his dad’s footsteps.

From the depths of grief to the heights of joy, his music reflects his life’s memories.

SMOKY TEXAN DELIGHT

ARTICLE BY BILLY JOE WOLSEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROGER WOLSEY

Brisket Queso

ingredients:

• 1 pound of cooked brisket

• 1 block of Velveeta cheese

• 1 medium white onion

• 2-3 cloves of garlic

• Bushel of cilantro – Use to your preference

• 1-3 jalapenos – Use to your level of desired spiciness

• 1 can of Rotel spicy or medium

directions:

Step 1. Get your smoker temperature to 250 degrees.

Step 2. Cube the block of Velveeta cheese, deseed and dice your jalapenos, mince 2-3 cloves of garlic, and rough chop 1/2-1 cup of cilantro after removing the stems. Add ingredients to the aluminum pan in sections and toss in the can of Rotel.

Step 3. Chop up your brisket into small chunks and add to the pan.

Step 4. Place the pan with all of your ingredients into your smoker and smoke for 30-40 minutes.

Step 5. After 30-40 minutes, stir your smoked dip until it is all evenly mixed. Continue cooking for another 25 minutes.

From left to right: Mario A. Moya / Cynthia N. Moya / Mario Moya (Sr.) Samantha Orellana / Martha A. Moya / Katrina Boxley / Roger Moya

Men of Influence

INSPIRING ENTREPRENEURS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THREE LITTLE CHICKADEES

David Mills

Magnolia Patio + Pools

David Mills began working in residential construction as a teenager but had a dream alongside his wife and business partner to launch Magnolia Patio + Pool. After the housing market collapse in 2009, David found himself out of a job and eager to take his future into his own hands by starting his own business. With hard work, dedication, and what he calls laser-focused goals, David has kept passion and aggressive goals at the forefront of his business model.

In 2017, David lost his daughter in a tragic car accident which made him realize “life is precious and short. You only get one shot at this life, and second chances aren’t always in the cards.” He wanted to make an impact on people’s lives and honor his daughter by founding the Kailee Mills Foundation. Through his charity work, he found similarities in missions for both Magnolia Patio + Pool and the Kailee Mills Foundation: to help improve the quality of people’s lives. Hearing stories of how these businesses have changed people’s lives is David’s fuel to find more ways to expand.

Looking back on his journey, David attributes his success to the company’s reputation, customer service, culture, and quality of work, as a direct result of his team. He strives to find team members who are goal-orientated, have positive attitudes, and are driven by a purpose greater than money. David believes in the power of passion, networking, and “taking care of the people you are currently doing projects for, and you won’t have to chase down business. No matter what you do, always do it with integrity.” If you are interested in getting a pool or outdoor living space, contact Magnolia Patio + Pool.

Nicholas Wills, known to many as Nick, grew up playing America’s favorite pastime, learning about teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, all qualities he transferred while making the decision to trade out his baseball glove for law books. From a young age, Nick knew he wanted to be in control of his time and grow a business. Shaped by a series of small yet significant moments, help from great mentors such as his dad and former boss, and the ability to lean on God, Nick opened The NMW Law Firm as an Attorney at Law.

His father instilled the value of hard work in him, and Nick has navigated the balance of effective time management by setting boundaries to give his best at work and in his personal life. Having a dedicated team with a positive and nurturing culture has contributed to Nick’s success. His goals and inspirations to

Nick Wills

The NMW Law Firm

continue growing his business directly connect with his goal of helping people. Nick has learned that nothing is guaranteed, and everything is a risk, so he prioritizes making time for his passions for playing baseball and classical music, to be the best version of himself for his clients. Outside of the courtroom, Nick enjoys working out, spending quality time with loved ones, and hanging out at his family ranch.

Nick believes that starting a business is fun, maintaining a business is hard, and growing a business is even harder. He offers three pieces of advice for future business owners: 1) perfect your craft, 2) do the right thing, and 3) do your best to make your clients happy, because 'if you want it, you can do it.' If you need a model Personal Injury Attorney, reach out to The NMW Law Firm.

Shane Harper

Porter Insurance Agency

Meet Shane Harper, a local self-starting Insurance Agent who traveled through various roles of Farmers Insurance training and management in Texas and Oklahoma, to gain knowledge and experience to take over the Harper family business of Porter Insurance Agency. Through determination to be the decision-maker in his career, sourced mentorship from his father, and continuous support from his family, Shane believes in being fair with customers and employees to build trust and a personable network.

“You only live once (YOLO!)” is a phrase Shane uses when making decisions, especially when working to attain a work/life balance. He feels that by empowering his staff, they can replicate tasks, bring in more customers, build stronger relationships, continue achieving goals with their clients, and boost the agency's overall productivity. Shane leads by example in his goal of avoiding burnout by staying focused on work during business hours and clocking out for downtime so everyone can enjoy the fruits of their labor. He values his hardworking and dependable team and believes they are the most important asset to his company, so he works hard to ensure they are relaxed, happy, and able to share creative ideas for his goals of expanding the business.

Shane believes in the phrase “teamwork makes the dream work” in both his home life and his business. He wants readers who aspire to grow their own business to remember that 'nothing worth having in this world is easy.' With the right team in place, prioritizing revenue-generating tasks, and taking care of your people (and yourself), it is possible and worth the risk! When you are ready to start saving on your home, auto, or commercial rates, contact Porter Insurance Agency.

Bourbon: America’s Spirit

ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH

In the late 18th century, settlers in Kentucky began distilling whiskey, giving birth to bourbon. Reverend Elijah Craig is often credited with aging whiskey in charred oak barrels, a defining characteristic of bourbon. Prohibition dealt a blow to bourbon production, but its repeal in 1933 sparked a resurgence. Today, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail showcases the artistry behind bourbon-making. With its smooth taste and rich history, bourbon has captivated palates worldwide. More than a drink, it symbolizes American tradition, craftsmanship, and resilience. From its humble beginnings to global acclaim, bourbon remains a cherished part of the American story—a true embodiment of the nation's spirit.

FROM PIONEERING

SPIRIT TO GLOBAL ICON—A TASTE OF AMERICAN HERITAGE AND TRADITION

Pain Train Salsa

A Family’s Journey from the Gridiron to Grocery Shelves

Fifteen years ago, if you wanted to experience 'The Pain Train,' you would've had to strap on your helmet and fearfully head towards the field. Today, you can find it all over Texas. From blitz to boss, Shane Nobles has remained prepared for setbacks and victories, but from a different field. Located on Main Street is the foundation of Pain Train Salsa, once a local farmers market favorite has grown bigger than the Nobles family could have hoped. Known for the creamy avocado salsa, which never contains anything you can't spell, can be found in stores such as H-E-B, Whole Foods, Costco, and Brookshire Brothers. With almost a whole avocado in every jar and without any additives, preservatives, or added sugars, it's a crowd pleaser. While we tend to believe teachers know best, who knew it could be about salsa?

My father and mother, Shane and Bianca Nobles, have dedicated over 20 years to the classroom, learning skills that have helped

develop their dream. My father's passion started in his hometown of Porter/New Caney, and continues to fuel his ventures, driving him to tackle challenges head-on and rally his team to victory. Just as he once analyzed opposing teams, he now assesses marketing and growth, always seeking the winning strategy. His coaching background instilled in him the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, values that remain central to his approach to business. As an old player and youngest business partner, he's taught ME the power of resilience in the face of obstacles and the rewards of hard work. In every endeavor, my father continues to embody the spirit of a coach, inspiring those around him to reach their highest potential and never lose sight of the goal. As Pain Train Salsa continues to thrive and expand, my sisters and I find ourselves grateful for this experience and lessons that continue to guide us on this remarkable journey that's just begun.

“He’s taught ME the power of resilience in the face of obstacles and the rewards of hard work.” “

LOVE YOUR LAZY LAWN

An easy way to help the ecosystem

Give some thought to this. Almost all US fruit and grain crops depend on pollination, yet our insect population has declined by 75% in the last 25 years - and most pollinators are insects.  Fortunately, keeping pollinators (and our local farms) alive couldn’t be easier. Just get lazy about your lawn!

Lawns mowed every two weeks offer more food for pollinators than lawns mowed weekly. So, while you’re lounging on the couch every other Saturday, your longer grass will be supporting American food systems. As a bonus, longer lawns also need less water, so being lazy saves you money, too.

Perfect lawns are literally the empty calories of the ecosystem. By letting go of that green-carpet ideal, you’ll add color to your landscape by allowing dandelions, violets, and white clover to decorate your grass. More important, these “weeds” feed pollinators which, in turn, feed us.

Here’s one more way being lazy can save the world: skip the pesticides. Pesticides kill pollinators, and they’re hardly health food for humans, birds, and pets, either. In fact, research shows that when bees visit plants treated with neonicotinoids (a chemical in most pesticides), even small amounts can build up over time and kill the hive. Neonicotinoids disorient bees and disrupt their fertility. Worse, they can linger in plants and pollen for 2-4 years.

So be a hero. Stay in bed this weekend and stop fussing over your lawn.

For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/ treesearch/pubs/55816

ARTICLE BY ANDREA BUGBEE

Perfecting Your Golf Swing

ARTICLE BY DANIEL SCHOWENGERDT

Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.

01.

Get fit for equipment.

If you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.

On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.

As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.

02.

Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.

There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads:

Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)

03.

Practice your short game every day.

You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.

Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green.

JUNE 1ST

Incredible Insects

Lake Houston Wilderness Park - 25840 FM 1485, New Caney, TX 77357 | 1:30 PM

Join us every Saturday in June at the Joe Turner Nature Center in Lake Houston Wilderness Park to discover the vital role insects play in our ecosystem. Learn about bug and insect distinctions and explore other essential groups. Children under 13 enter free, while adults pay $3, except for military personnel and those over 65. Don't miss this educational adventure!

JUNE 2ND

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

JUNE 7TH

Tullis Library: Family Movie Friday

R. B. Tullis Branch - MCMLS - 21569 U.S. Hwy 59, New Caney, TX 77357 | 2:00 PM

We will be showing movies from the Marvel Cinematic Universe in order of release. All movies are rated PG-13, Every Friday at 2:00pm. countylibrary.org

JUNE 16TH

Celebrate & Treat Dad!

Three B's Grill - 4590 Kingwood Dr, Kingwood, TX 77345 | 11:00 AM

Treat your dad and join us on Father's Day! threebsgrill.com

JUNE 16TH

Father's Day at Big Rivers

Big Rivers Water Park - 23101 Highway 242, New Caney, TX 77357 | 11:00 AM

This Father's Day, Sunday, June 16th from 11 AM to 7 PM, bring the whole family to Big Rivers Waterpark and Adventures! There will be activities for the whole family. Check our events page for more fun events in June! bigriverswaterpark.com

JUNE 21ST

Cheers to 20 Years!

Her Healthcare - 23802 Highway 59 North, Kingwood, TX 77339 | 3:00 PM

It's time to celebrate 20 years of exceptional care and unwavering dedication at Her Healthcare. Join us as we toast to two decades of empowering women's health. Save the date and get ready to raise a glass to many more years or caring, compassion, and community.  www.myprivia.com/herhealthcare

“Working with Toni is a

She is very committed to the projects and takes the time to walk alongside from start to finish.”

Early Detection Starts With Your ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM

The recommended age to start your annual mammogram is 40. Schedule yours today.

At Houston Methodist Breast Care Centers, our board-certified experts use the latest imaging technology to provide you with cutting-edge breast screenings — such as 3D mammograms — to detect even the smallest lumps and abnormalities with accuracy. We offer:

• 10+ convenient locations across Houston

• Online scheduling with readily available appointments

• Expanded hours available at most locations

• Access to medical records and test results through MyChart

Visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care or call The Woodlands: 936.270.3600 | Conroe: 713.363.8650 to schedule your mammogram today. We do not require a doctor’s order for your annual screening mammogram.

*Conroe