Porter, TX November 2025 by City Lifestyle

LEADING ORTHOPEDIC CARE KEEPS YOU MOVING

When an injury puts you on the sidelines, your Houston Methodist orthopedic team puts expertise into play. We’ll customize a minimally invasive treatment plan to get you back out there — doing the things you love.

That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. For you.

houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics 936.321.8000

Gratitude in Every Page

As we welcome November and the season of thankfulness, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to our readers and partners. Every issue of Porter City Lifestyle is made possible because of your support, your stories, and your willingness to share your passions with us.

This month, we are especially excited to celebrate the amazing things happening in our community. From small businesses making big impacts to everyday neighbors showing extraordinary kindness, the creativity, dedication, and heart around us are truly inspiring. Highlighting these moments is what drives us, and we feel honored to help bring them into the spotlight.

Your trust in allowing us to feature your journey, your work, and your vision is something we deeply value. Sharing these stories not only celebrates the people behind them but also reminds all of us of the power of connection, generosity, and purpose.

Thank you for reading, supporting, and inspiring us. Together, we celebrate the people and moments that make this community extraordinary. We look forward to continuing to share your stories, spotlight local businesses, and showcase all the ways our neighbors are making a meaningful difference.

Stay cozy, stay thankful, and enjoy every special moment this season brings.

STACY LEACH, EDITOR

November 2025

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

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Brooke Madl Photography

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

If you’ve found yourself here, maybe something inside you is wondering if things could feel different. Maybe you’ve been holding it all together for too long. Maybe the anxiety, the sadness, the overwhelm — it’s starting to wear you down. Or maybe you’re simply feeling stuck, and you don’t know where to turn next.

Whatever brought you here, I want you to know this: You don’t have to carry it alone. Therapy isn’t about being broken — it’s about being human. It’s a space where you’re allowed to feel what you feel, explore what’s holding you back, and begin to move forward with greater clarity, peace, and strength.

I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, grief, trauma, and more. Together, we’ll create a space where healing feels possible — and hope feels real again. If you're thinking about reaching out, that’s a powerful first step. I’d be honored to walk the next part of the journey with you. You deserve support. You deserve healing. You deserve to feel better.

inside the issue

Eric Ellenberger

How

Where Houston builds, The MINT Bank

NOVEMBER 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: PCL partners Mach One and NMW Law, supporting community growth at the Chambers luncheon. 2: Congrats to Jacques Verron on his award, honored for his consistent support of our kids. 3: PCL and partners joined Taste of Town, savoring local dishes and supporting the community. 4: Another great East Montgomery County Cook-off Fair & Rodeo in the books! 5: Commissioner Gray was this year’s Grand Marshal in the EMC Fair & Rodeo Parade. 6: Head Up Heels Down placed 6th overall at the 40th Annual EMC Fair & Rodeo. 7: Olivia and her friend attended NCHS mini cheer clinic, learning routines, teamwork, and shared smiles.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

JAMIE ALLGOOD MONTGOMERY

JAMIE ALLGOOD

AMBER DOBYNS

Skero's Furniture: Where Service Meets Speed

Skero’s Furniture is raising the bar yet again with the opening of their brandnew distribution center, conveniently located next to their Northpark store. This exciting addition allows for same or next-day delivery, making it easier than ever for customers to enjoy their new furniture without the wait. Paired with Skero’s already exceptional customer service and commitment to value, the distribution center further cements their reputation as a trusted local favorite.

Calling all parents of Homeschool and After-School Students! Are you looking for a structured, fun, and educational fitness program for your child? Our Youth Fitness & Development Program is enrolling. We focus on Plyometrics, Hand-Eye Coordination, Balance and Mobility, Speed and Agility, and Full Body Strength. Your child will gain confidence, athletic ability, and lifelong healthy habits, all while having a blast in a safe and encouraging environment. Mon & Wed | 5:30PM & 6:30PM

A Fresh Blend at Hope Media

Located inside Hope Media Group Headquarters in New Caney, the new coffee shop invites you to savor fresh flavors in a warm, welcoming space. Enjoy locally roasted, expertly crafted coffee, gourmet sandwiches, and more. Open Tuesday through Friday, 8 AM - 4 PM, it’s the perfect spot to recharge, connect, and experience community over every sip and bite. www.citizenscoffeeandcatering.com/ newcaneycoffeeshop

Purpose, Perseverance, Impact

FROM SOLDIER TO ENTREPRENEUR, HEATHER HERLONG TRANSFORMS CHALLENGES INTO EMPOWERMENT.

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS

We're not all born with an innate sense of altruism. Sometimes, that's a learned behavior, and even then, it is not always sincere. But there are people who bear the heart of a servant, and owner of Heather Herlong Events, Heather, is one of them.

Raised in Texas and shaped by a legacy of military service, Heather embraced the values of discipline and dedication early in life. Her time in the U.S. Army as a Medical Specialist took her across the country, from Fort Bragg to West Point, from Texas to South Carolina to New York- supporting elite units and readiness task forces. But her commitment to service didn’t end with her uniform; it became a lifelong mission to uplift others, especially her family and fellow veterans.

After the military, Heather's focus turned to nursing, determined to build a better future for her two sons. Balancing motherhood, school, and work was a daily challenge. Her faith became her anchor, with early morning prayer and Bible study providing strength through exhaustion and uncertainty. Despite academic struggles intensified by undiagnosed learning disabilities and light sensitivity, she persevered. Eventually, she received a proper diagnosis that brought clarity and opened the door to therapy and adaptation.

Just as her nursing dream neared completion, Heather faced a crushing setback—the denial of an in-person meeting with the Director of Nursing, offering only a letter... rejection. The disappointment was profound, but it became a catalyst for transformation. In a moment of despair, she found spiritual reassurance and a renewed sense of direction. She stopped clinging to a single plan and began embracing new possibilities.

Seeing the silence around the struggle and the blanket of isolation, Heather chose to bring light to the topic - especially in business. By being honest about challenges, she built solutions others could use. That transparency became the foundation of her company, Heather Herlong Events. Her first client needed help managing growth, and Heather applied a strategic plan of action to turn their events into engines of impact. From one successful client, she launched a career helping leaders nationwide transform their events into assets that drive clarity, strategy, and results.

The same perseverance, creativity, and resilience that carried her through nursing school now fuel her work. Guiding clients through uncertainty, helping them turn breakdowns into breakthroughs, Heather empowers others to build legacies with purpose, transforming events from simple logistics into milestones that create lasting impact.

Heather’s influence extends beyond entrepreneurship. As a Founding Member and Past President of Blue Star Mothers of America, TX18, and a board member of the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce and Gold Star Advocates, she champions causes that support community, local businesses, and honor fallen soldiers, and improve safety protocols for active military. Her advocacy is rooted in faith and a commitment to serve with integrity. “I want others to know they’re not alone, and their story isn’t over,” Heather says. “The very thing that feels like it might break you can become the foundation for your greatest impact.” Her journey from soldier to single mother, from heartbreak to business owner, is a powerful reminder that gratitude is more than a feeling. It’s a way of life that turns pain into purpose and setbacks into strength.

Life is for living. Let’s partner to help you make every single moment matter.

Investing is about more than just creating wealth. It’s about making your money work for you to live life on your terms. We focus on helping you achieve what’s most important to you. And we do that by building a personal connection.

Madison Duxbury, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPC® Financial Advisor

21383 Valley Ranch Boulevard, Suite 500 New Caney, TX 77357 281-358-2187

Jim Carranza, ChFC®, AAMS® Financial Advisor 855 Rockmead Drive, Unit 405 Kingwood, TX 77339 281-359-7455

@myavenuechurch

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS

Connection The Power of

MARINE VETERAN ERIC ELLENBERGER TURNED STRUGGLE INTO SERVICE, INSPIRING OTHERS THROUGH HIS WORK WITH WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT.

Growing up in a small town, residents quickly learn the value of connection, patriotism, and community pride. For local Marine Eric Ellenberger, those lessons became the foundation of a life built on service. From his earliest days at Porter Elementary through graduation from New Caney High School in 2003, Eric was surrounded by friendships that stood the test of time and a town that quietly modeled respect for those in uniform.

Though his family didn’t have a military background, the deep admiration shown to veterans sparked something within him, along with a desire to protect his young family ultimately led him to enlist in the United States Marine Corps at the onset of the Iraq War, a decision rooted in love, responsibility, and a calling to serve something greater than himself.

Eric credits his high school football coach, Casey Hubble, as one of the greatest leaders he’s ever known. Coach Hubble led with love, consistency, and full commitment, and those are lessons Eric carried through deployments and continues to guide him today. His time in the Marines taught him three enduring principles: be present for others, lead by example, and serve out of love without expecting anything in return.

These values became the foundation of his life after service, but transitioning to civilian life was far more difficult than he anticipated. Though he returned to the New Caney area, settled in Kingwood, and enrolled his children in the same schools he once attended, Eric struggled privately with deep despair and, at one point, felt he had nowhere to turn. A simple decision to walk into the Veterans Center at Lone Star College Kingwood changed everything. Surrounded by fellow veterans, he found hope, community, and the strength to keep going.

“We’re RESILIENT,

ADAPTABLE,

and

EAGER to CONTINUE SERVING, just in DIFFERENT WAYS.”

That moment led Eric to the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), where he now works leading a team that helps veterans connect in the community. WWP was founded over 20 years ago with a promise to always be there for post-9/11 warriors and families. Its mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors, and its vision is to foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of veterans in our nation’s history. For Eric, WWP gave him back his purpose and provided a platform to serve every single day.

WWP offers a holistic approach to recovery, supporting veterans across five key areas: physical, mental, financial, social, and spiritual well-being. From mental health programs and career counseling to peer support events and fitness challenges, WWP meets veterans where they are and walks alongside them. Eric believes deeply in the power of connection, saying, “It’s not just about changing lives—it’s about saving them.”

Eric wants people to understand that veterans are more than their service. “We’re not broken,” he says. “We’re resilient, adaptable, and eager to continue serving, just in different ways.” His own healing has been supported by his community through coaching youth sports, including his youngest daughter’s travel softball team, to mentoring young athletes, and serving on local boards. Eric has found ways to give back while staying connected, passing on life lessons from the Marines, and showing young people the importance of lifelong service.

Eric’s story is a testament to the strength of service, the healing power of connection, and the enduring support of a community that never stops giving back. His journey reminds us that purpose doesn’t end when the uniform comes off—it simply finds new ways to shine. For local veterans and families in the area, getting involved, helping raise awareness, and showing support is just a click away at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Investing in the Future

How Shoot for Scholarships is Creating Pathways Beyond the Classroom

A quiet but powerful movement is taking root in our hometown, changing lives, reshaping futures, and redefining what success looks like. At the heart of this movement is Shoot for Scholarships, a newly established nonprofit founded by Wayman Biles, a lifelong resident of East Montgomery County (EMC) and a passionate advocate for youth opportunity. With a bold mission to empower local students through education, Shoot for Scholarships is built on gratitude, fueled by community, and driven by the belief that every young person deserves a chance to thrive.

Shoot for Scholarships was born from a legacy of giving. Though the organization is new, its leadership has spent nearly two decades raising scholarship funds for students in New Caney and Splendora. Now, that passion has found a new home—a focused effort to support students who are ready to learn, work hard, and give back to the area that supported them. The goal is clear: to provide opportunities, mentorship, and hope to the next generation. But the mission doesn’t stop there. The organization is also committed to standing alongside other local nonprofits, offering support wherever it’s needed to strengthen the entire community.

Students are increasingly embracing vocational education, pursuing hands-on careers in welding, HVAC, healthcare, cosmetology,

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS

IT, and other skilled trades. These careers offer not only financial stability but also a profound sense of purpose and pride in creating something tangible. Beyond immediate job opportunities, competitive wages, and practical skills, they signal a deeper shift, a redefinition of success that celebrates craftsmanship, community impact, and personal fulfillment. Supported by schools, businesses, and organizations like Shoot for Scholarships, this movement demonstrates that true success is measured not by a diploma but by dedication, heart, and a willingness to serve.

Shoot for Scholarships is building a network of support, connecting students with mentors, internships, apprenticeships, and career guidance. By partnering with local schools and businesses, the organization is creating pathways to success that go far beyond the classroom, helping students not only reach their goals but thrive in their chosen fields.

Every event isn’t just a gathering; it’s an investment in brighter futures. Shoot for Scholarships hosts a variety of fun, family-friendly activities that bring everyone together in celebration and support. Seasonal cook-offs, like the Fall Chili & Bean and Spring Bar-B-Que, highlight local talent and generosity. Game nights, dances, and tournaments turn gatherings into opportunities to make a difference. Through sponsorships, auctions, and raffles, local businesses and individuals invest in the future, with each dollar bringing a student closer to their dreams. The response from the community has been nothing short of inspiring. From the ribbon-cutting hosted by the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber to the growing excitement around occupational education, the momentum is real. People are showing up, giving generously, and believing in the power of education to transform lives. While President Wayman Biles is honored to lead, he emphasizes that none of this would be possible without the dedicated team beside him. Their commitment and passion fuel the organization’s growth, proving this vision is bigger than any one person—it’s a community effort.

“The goal is clear: to provide opportunities, mentorship, and hope to the next generation.”

As the organization prepares to award its first scholarships in 2026, the vision is clear: build a lasting legacy of opportunity, mentorship, and shared pride that uplifts generations to come. For the dedicated team of founding members behind Shoot for Scholarships, this is more than a nonprofit; it’s a heartfelt promise to the next generation that their dreams matter, their hard work is valued, and their future is worth investing in. To learn more or get involved, reach out to shootforscholarships@gmail.com and follow the journey on Facebook: Shoot for Scholarships www.facebook.com/shootingforscholarships .

H O P E

with YOU

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

HOW 89.3 KSBJ TURNS MUSIC INTO MINISTRY AND HOPE INTO ACTION.

Spreading Hope

Beyond the Airwaves

ARTICLE BY RACHEL BURK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE MADL PHOTOGRAPHY

It’s felt the moment the dial is turned: a vibrant, hopeful current flowing through the Houston airwaves. It’s more than just music; it’s a mission. For over 40 years, 89.3 KSBJ, a part of Hope Media Group, has been a steadfast voice in the community, dedicated to "spreading hope" through a blend of faith-based music and ministry. While you might know them for the songs that get you through your commute, the real story of KSBJ goes far beyond the radio.

THE ON-AIR CONNECTION

Every morning, millions of Houstonians wake up to the familiar, friendly voices of Rachelle and Carder, co-hosts of KSBJ’s morning show. Their on-air dynamic is a perfect blend of humor, genuine conversation, and heartfelt encouragement. As they share personal stories and connect with listeners, it’s clear they aren’t just reading scripts; they’re building a family.

"My family and I were called to Texas in 2014," Rachelle says, reflecting on her journey to KSBJ. "Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to lean into God’s understanding, and that’s what we did when we didn’t fully understand the 'why' in moving." Her leap of faith led her to a station where she quickly felt at home.

Carder, who started at KSBJ’s sister station, NGEN Radio, in 2015, also speaks to the station’s deep roots in the community. "People know that KSBJ brings hope, and they never forget it," he notes. "I was amazed that people called us for prayer, even if they hadn't listened to our station since they were kids."

The impact of their work is tangible and immediate. Rachelle recalls a powerful story of a father named Benjamin who called in, unsure about faith. "He prayed on the phone with us and accepted Jesus into his life that very day," she shares. "The first thing he said after we had finished praying was, 'And I can talk to Him anytime I want to?' Precious faith!"

These are the moments that define the KSBJ experience—not just a one-way broadcast, but a constant, two-way conversation with listeners who become family. For Rachelle and Carder, it’s not about filling airtime; it’s about walking alongside listeners in their everyday lives. And for people like Benjamin, it’s a reminder that hope is only ever a phone call or a prayer away.

THE IMPACT BEYOND THE AIRWAVES

KSBJ’s ministry extends well beyond the studio walls and into the heart of the community. What listeners hear on the radio reflects the station’s commitment to action, with several key initiatives making a profound difference. What listeners hear on the radio is just one part of a larger mission, living out faith through action.

One of the most heartwarming examples is KSBJ’s Biggest Baby Shower EXPO, an annual event dedicated to new and expecting mothers in need. At a recent event, the KSBJ family helped collect and distribute 17,000 diapers and 61,000 baby wipes, along with other essentials. For families facing uncertainty, those donations became more than supplies; they

became hope, relief, and a reminder that they weren’t alone. By partnering with nonprofits like PACN Pregnancy Assistance Center North and Texas Children’s Hospital, the station ensures these resources reach the families who need them most.

The spirit of generosity continues throughout the year. Whether it’s collecting food through the 2024 Christmas Food Drive, showing up with sweet surprises every summer through Ice Cream Emergency, or creating spaces for prayer and connection, KSBJ consistently demonstrates that their ministry is not confined to the airwaves. It’s an active, compassionate presence in Houston. Their work is a testament to the belief that faith is more than words or feelings; it’s action, lived out through serving others.

THE DIGITAL LIFELINE

In a world that often feels busy and disconnected, KSBJ has discovered a powerful way to bring people together: the KSBJ Prayer Wall. This 24/7 digital lifeline allows anyone, anywhere, to submit prayer requests, join in praying for others, and experience the comfort of a supportive community—all from the palm of their hand.

The vision behind the Prayer Wall was simple yet profound: extend the ministry beyond the airwaves and create a space where prayer never stops. "It’s not just an extension of our on-air ministry," KSBJ staff explains. "It’s an interactive experience that brings listeners closer together through prayer."

The impact is best seen through the stories of those who use it. One listener shared, "I've been listening to KSBJ for years, and the music, the prayers, the messages have touched me in ways I never thought possible and have helped me to survive through depression and so much more." Another user, who endured the heartbreak of losing a twin during pregnancy and the uncertainty of a sudden layoff, described how the app became a source of strength. After countless prayers, they found renewed hope—and a new job—giving "all the credit to God."

These stories highlight how the KSBJ Prayer Wall has transformed KSBJ from a one-way broadcast into a dynamic, interactive community, providing a source of hope and encouragement in moments of crisis.

THE HEART OF THE MISSION

Ultimately, Hope Media Group and 89.3 KSBJ are far more than a radio station. While the music is the heart of their identity, their mission is a full-fledged ministry powered by a team of staff and volunteers who are "courageously sharing their own stories on-air" and "praying for listeners."

When asked about the legacy of KSBJ, the response is simple but profound: "Our hope is that decades from now, people will say, 'KSBJ was there for me when I needed hope most.' That our legacy will be more than songs on the radio—it will be engaging people to love Jesus, serve others & spread hope."

That legacy is already unfolding. In every song played, every prayer shared, and every community event hosted, KSBJ is faithfully living out its mission. They are faithful friends in the Greater Houston area, consistently pointing people to a place of peace and hope, showing that faith isn't just something you listen toit's something you live.

Believing in the Impossible

EMPOWERING STUDENTS TO GROW, DREAM BIG, AND EMBRACE EVERY CHALLENGE.

ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH

For 14 years, Richard A. Smith, known to students as “Coach Smith”, has dedicated his life to teaching, building relationships, and inspiring young minds across Spring, Porter, and New Caney. He believes every student has potential waiting to be unlocked through encouragement, hard work, and self-belief, and he strives to create a classroom environment where curiosity and confidence thrive. Recently, Richard became a published author with The Adventures of Super Techno: Anything is Possible!, a story that teaches children how perseverance, gratitude, and supportive friends can help them achieve their dreams. Drawing on years of experience guiding students in both academics and in life, he hopes to leave a lasting impact on the next generation, showing that dedication, kindness, and imagination can truly change lives.

1. What are you most thankful for in your 14 years of teaching?

I’m most thankful for the relationships I’ve built with my students and the opportunity to inspire and impact their lives. Every year, I’m encouraged to do more and grow alongside them.

2. Can you share a moment when you felt especially grateful to be an educator?

In my first year, a young 2nd grader who struggled a lot wrote me a letter saying, “Thank you for putting up with me and teaching me. You really cared about me.” Reading it brought me to tears—I was truly grateful for the chance to teach.

3. Who are the people you’re most thankful for in shaping your teaching journey?

My wife encouraged me to pursue teaching after being laid off, believing in my potential. I also credit my first two principals for guiding me to connect with students’ lives, not just teach lessons.

4. What inspired you to write The Adventures of Super Techno?

When my students were hesitant to write short stories, I created my own to inspire them. Techno’s adventures showed that self-belief and perseverance make anything possible.

5. What message do you hope kids take away from your story?

I hope kids and adults see that dreams are achievable with hard work, gratitude, and support from friends who believe in them.

6. How has the Porter community supported you as a teacher and author?

The community has been amazing. Students, parents, and fellow teachers eagerly read and shared the book. Their encouragement reinforces the connection between teaching and inspiring through storytelling.

7. What role does gratitude play in helping children learn and grow?

Gratitude nurtures resilience, empathy, and motivation. When children feel secure and appreciated, they’re better equipped to handle challenges, form positive relationships, and grow both academically and personally.

8. If you could thank your students for one thing, what would it be?

I’d thank them for trusting me, allowing me to inspire them, and taking lessons to heart to become better versions of themselves.

Get your copy of The Adventures of Super Techno: Anything is Possible! from over 15,000 online retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart.com, Books-a-Million, Mackin.com for bulk orders, and more.

“Gratitude nurtures resilience, empathy, and motivation. When children feel secure and appreciated, they’re better equipped to handle challenges, form positive relationships, and grow both academically and personally.”

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

NOVEMBER 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! www.newcaneymarket.com

NOVEMBER 8TH

Peggy Beyer 6th Annual Scholarship Event

Bull Sallas Park - 21681 McCleskey Rd., New Caney, TX 77357 | 8:00 AM

Join us for a Charity Chili Cook-Off and Cornhole Tournament, raising funds for scholarships benefiting New Caney ISD graduates.

NOVEMBER 15TH

Back Pew Brewing Co. 5K Beer Run

Back Pew Brewing - 26452 Sorters-McLellan Rd, Porter, TX 77365 | 8:00 AM

The Back Pew Brewery 5K kicks off and finishes at the brewery, winding through local neighborhoods. Finishers enjoy two 16-oz craft beers, a souvenir pint glass, and a tech T-shirt. With food trucks, stroller/dog-friendly vibes, and proceeds benefiting Family Promise of Lake Houston, this run is part of the Texas 5K 6-Pack Challenge.

NOVEMBER 22ND

Mike’s Toy Drive

Mikes Gulf Coast RC Raceway - 21768 E Knox Dr, Porter, TX 77365 | 10:00 AM

Come out, race RC cars, and help make a difference! Join us for an exciting few days of RC racing fun while supporting a great cause. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate and help brighten the holidays for less fortunate children in our community.

NOVEMBER 27TH

Addi's Faith 5K Turkey Trot

Town Center Park - 8 N Main St, Kingwood, TX 77339 | 8:30 AM

Come join us for the Thanksgiving morning Addi's Faith Turkey Day 5k & Kids Wishbone 1K as we celebrate a community in support of finding a cure for pediatric cancer! The Turkey Day 5K has become your family's Thanksgiving tradition, and we are excited to see you on Thanksgiving morning!! Help us lighten local cancer families' load a little during this holiday season.

NOVEMBER 28TH

Montgomery County Market Days – Black Friday Market

Bull Sallas Park - 21675 McCleskey Rd., New Caney, TX 77357 | 10:00 AM

Skip the chaos of big-box shopping and discover unique treasures in New Caney! From boutique fashion, artisan jewelry, leather goods, sweets, and handmade gifts to food trucks, art workshops, and festive photo ops, this three-day market has it all. Support local, find meaningful gifts, and make holiday shopping magical. November 28–30 | 10 AM – 4 PM daily

Want to be featured?

Liv ing Hole-In-One

New homes from the $350s

A social membership to Highland Pines Golf Club is included for residents, so you can start enjoying those special perks immediately! Find your dream home among 17 model homes – including a new model park – from 13 premier builders and swing into a life that shines brighter on and oﬀ the course.