Thank you to our ad partners, readers, staff, and community for your unwavering support! Our purpose remains to tell the great, eclectic stories of The Woodlands!
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Stunning remodel overlooking the 9th Fairway of the Oaks Golf Course in Grogan's Point! Such a fantastic location - close to I-45, shops and restaurants at Market Street, Whole Foods at Hughes Landing, and the Woodlands Medical Center! Circular drive, 3 car attached garage with epoxy flooring, sky high ceiling heights with wood beams, designer light fixtures, hardwood flooring, and serene fairway views through the many large windows. Private study; formal dining; open and airy kitchen with huge island overlooks the sunny breakfast room and two story den with fireplace; primary suite down offers a sitting area with cozy fireplace, and an amazing bath with 2 walk-in closets. 3 bedrooms, 2 remodeled baths and game room up + bonus room. The picturesque backyard provides a park-like setting with a gorgeous pool, spa, pool bath, newly added pavilion with outdoor fireplace and kitchen.
Letter From the Editor
With the turning of the leaves and hoped-for cooling of temperatures, the season of celebrated thankfulness has finally arrived. Whether you trace the origins of Thanksgiving to President Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 proclamation, the 1621 harvest feast in Plymouth Colony, or traditions of gratitude among friends and family that go back even further than our nation’s founding, Thanksgiving offers each of us an annual opportunity to welcome gratitude and grace into our homes.
In recent months, I have been especially grateful for community—for family, for friends who feel like family, for neighbors who take the time to stop and connect with one another, and for coworkers—our remarkable The Woodlands City Lifestyle editorial and writing teams—who recognize the privilege of living, working, playing, and worshiping together in a place as safe and beautiful as The Woodlands.
A recent encounter reminded me of this truth: my husband and I met a new neighbor, and through an hour of conversation, we realized the threads of our pasts overlapped again and again in the quilt of Houston. We met as strangers, but by the time we walked home, it felt as though we were longtime friends.
This November issue celebrates that spirit of connection and the importance of giving back. Remarkably, this month also marks our fifth anniversary—sixty issues since our founding! In celebration, the pages ahead feature a brief history of “Friendsgiving,” a profile of business owner and youth advocate Lindsay Dawson, and a round-up of essential Thanksgiving kitchenware, among other timely stories.
Our cover story spotlights the philanthropic heart behind The John Cooper School’s approach to raising the next generation of young leaders—an ethos that emphasizes community engagement in students’ lives as it also becomes “something that will stay with them forever.”
We are deeply thankful for the local individuals and businesses who support our publication, and for readers like you.
As you prepare to gather with loved ones for Thanksgiving, we hope our anniversary issue inspires you to reflect on all there is to be grateful for this season.
Thankfully, until next month,
ALEX GRAY, MANAGING EDITOR @THEWOODLANDSCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Tonya Butler | tonya.butler@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Alison Bridges | alison.bridges@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Alex Gray | alex.gray@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Dawn Allen
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
The Woodlands City Lifestyle woodlands@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Laura L. Green, Lana Wilkens, Travis Hager, Michelle Leigh Smith, Heather Davis, Aunika Anderson, Dawn Allen
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
3:5-6
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1: Inspiration Ranch board member Elijah Wood and Dr. Diana Wandix-White attended the Inspiration Ranch gala. 2: Mike Maher with gala honorees Jim and Michelle Little and President and CEO MG Tindall. 3: Ovintiv’s Mike Schmidt and Brandon and Jessica Brame enjoyed the Denim and Diamonds themed event. 4: Megan Bruegger, Courtney Reneau, and Crystal Sled from gala honoree Western Midstream. 5: Taryn Leto, Arie Muniz, Alaina Muniz, Amerigo’s Grille’s Tina Kosh-Goodson, and Brandon Goodson. 6: Judge John Hafley, board member Carol Watford, Dina Hafley. 7: Inspiration Ranch client parent, Leah Domangue, gave testimony about her son Cullen.
Photography by Inspiration Ranch
1: Christian Collins, Founder of Texas Youth Summit, saw 3,500 people gather for Day One. 2: One young attendee kneeled down by her seat to pray at the Summit. 3: Commentator, podcast host, and author Allie Beth Stuckey shared the gospel with attendees.
Photography by Sara Quinnett
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At The Spine Center, Dr. Saqib Siddiqui provides advanced orthopedic and spinal care tailored to each patient's needs. Whether you're struggling with localized pain or complex cases such as scoliosis or other spinal deformities, Dr. Siddiqui focuses on minimally invasive and effective surgical solutions that relieve pain and restore mobility. Additional procedures offered include artificial disc replacement, microdiscectomy, fusion, and spinal injections.
Excellence in Dentistry
Dr. Leah has taken over 140 hours of continuing education with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) and is working on her Fellowship distinction. Dr. Leah Zils is set to take over Dr. Cagle’s dental practice, dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of exceptional dental care established by her predecessor. Dr. Zils attended the University of Arkansas on a soccer scholarship before finishing her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at Texas A&M University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She then graduated from UT School of Dentistry in Houston and hit the ground running with her dental career.
She has taken over 140 hours of continuing education with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) and is working on her Fellowship distinction. She is certified in laser dentistry as well as oral sedation. She is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Zils looks forward to welcoming new clients into the practice, where she can apply her extensive education and experience to provide top-notch dental care.
Welcoming New Patients.
The Woodlands Area Business Summit to be held November 7th
The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce will host their Woodlands Area Business Summit on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Conroe. The purpose of the conference is to provide leading edge information about our area to local companies to help them remain competitive and productive. The one-day conference will provide opportunities for chamber members to connect with each other and learn strategies for the development, management and success of their businesses. woodlandschamber.org/ the-woodlands-area-business-summit
Photography by The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce
New Fitness Studio, FS8 The Woodlands, Opening this Fall
A new fitness studio focused on combining the best elements of Pilates, tone and yoga for a full-body group training experience is opening this fall in our area. FS8 provides a low impact and high sweat workout focused on firing up your muscles which builds strength, stability and flexibility. FS8 is for everybody and every body! Their group fitness classes encourage community connection. FS8 will be located at 30428 FM 2978 in The Woodlands.
Photography by Stock Photo
Two New Chef-Driven Restaurants Opening in 2026 in The Woodlands
Foodies rejoice as two new chefdriven restaurants are coming to The Woodlands! Charolais by Chef Austin Simmons and Bar Bludorn The Woodlands by Chef Aaron Bludorn, are both planned to open next year. Charolais, a beef-forward restaurant utilizing high-quality beef from Simmons' genetics-driven cattle venture, will open in early 2026 in Hughes Landing. Bar Bludorn, The Woodlands debut for Bludorn's Houston-favorite tavern, will open in Summer 2026 at 25 Waterway.
Photography by Stock Photo
OMEGA BOUTIQUE
CRAFTING TIME, HONORING LEGACY
ARTICLE BY TRAVIS HAGER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS HAGER AND ADOBE STOCK
In moments that define history, time is often the unsung hero. In April 1970, when Apollo 13’s mission turned perilous after an oxygen tank explosion crippled the spacecraft, the astronauts had only one dependable instrument left to guide them home: the OMEGA Speedmaster.
PERFECT TIMING
With power systems shut down and digital timers dark, astronaut Jack Swigert relied on his Speedmaster chronograph to time a critical
14-second engine burn while Jim Lovell steered the crippled craft. The flawless precision of that maneuver altered their trajectory just enough to ensure safe reentry to Earth. If that approach had been too steep or too shallow, this chapter in space history would have had a very different ending. That act of timing, courage, and trust earned OMEGA NASA’s Silver Snoopy award—the ultimate thank you from those whose lives depended on it, and a distinction reserved only for the most extraordinary contributions to human spaceflight safety.
The Silver Snoopy award, a cherished emblem of NASA since the 1960s, honors contributions that safeguard astronauts and mission success. For OMEGA, it became a symbol not only of technical excellence, but of human connection and gratitude.
A TIMEKEEPER'S LEGACY
This Thanksgiving season, as our community reflects on what it means to give thanks, OMEGA Boutique in The Woodlands celebrates that same spirit. From life’s greatest milestones to the silent rituals of every day, OMEGA stands ready to mark time with us.
For years, the boutique has been a place where watchmaking artistry meets personal memory, and as the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games since 1932, OMEGA has measured the very fractions that separate gold from silver. In fact, this February, just three months away, OMEGA proudly takes on that role again for the XXV Winter Olympic Games in Cortina and Milan, ensuring every record and triumph is captured with absolute precision.
At OMEGA Boutique on Market Street, we can all be reminded that time is not only about hours and minutes. It is about gratitude—for trustworthy timepieces, renowned legacies, and the chance to be part of stories that last.
“The OMEGA Speedmaster didn’t just measure time. It measured survival.”
When you stop into OMEGA Boutique, discover timepieces built not only to endure history, but to honor it.
OMEGA BOUTIQUE OF THE WOODLANDS
Where time is measured and thankfulness endures. Visit them at 9595 Six Pines Dr., #625, The Woodlands, TX 77380.
OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra.
OMEGA Speedmaster Moon Watch Professional.
Merci, Mahalo, Muchas Gracias!
The Must-Have Tools to Make Your Thanksgiving Dinner Magnificent
Thanksgiving is more than a meal—it’s a tradition that brings family and friends together around a table filled with warmth, gratitude, and abundance. Whether you’re preparing a feast for six or thirty, the right tools can elevate the entire experience, from the roasting pan that carries your turkey to perfection, to the bakeware that makes your pies shine as brightly as the conversation. We asked seasoned hosts, designers, and culinary experts what essentials they reach for when crafting a memorable holiday gathering.
HOSTESS TIP: LARGE COOKWARE
“For Thanksgiving we entertain from 18-30 people, so we prepare all of the food in a large quantity,” says hostess Emely McHattie. Large cookware makes this a snap. “I use two Le Creuset casserole dishes for the stuffing, so it goes easily from oven to table and looks beautiful.” For hosts, four cooking tools stand out among the rest: a roaster, cassadou, rectangular baker, and pie dish.
BEHIND EACH DISH
In the end, Thanksgiving isn’t just about what’s on the menu—it’s about the thought and care behind each dish, the beauty of a well-set table, and the joy of sharing time together. With a few timeless tools and meaningful touches, you can create a feast that feels effortless, elegant, and truly unforgettable. After all, as McHattie reminds us, this holiday is about more than cooking; it’s about giving thanks for the blessings that bring us together.
“We entertain from 18–30 people, so we prepare all of the food in large quantity,” says hostess Emely McHattie. “I use two Le Creuset casserole dishes for the stuffing, so it goes easily from oven to table and looks beautiful.”
For the centerpiece of the holiday—the turkey—nothing beats a sturdy, generous roaster. The wide handles make it easy to transfer from oven to table, even when you’re wearing bulky oven mitts, and the cast iron distributes heat evenly so the bird stays juicy while the skin crisps beautifully. After the turkey is carved, the low sides allow you to whisk up gravy directly in the pan.
Signature Roaster
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE
Inspired by the rustic stews of Provence, this versatile pan is just as comfortable simmering sauces as it is frying or braising. With its deep bowl and long handle, it feels like a cross between a Dutch oven and a sauté pan—perfect for sides like green beans, mushroom gravy, or even a small batch of soup to start the meal.
For stuffing, casseroles, or bubbling sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows, a rectangular baker is the quiet workhorse of the kitchen. Its clean lines and vibrant glaze mean you can bring it directly to the table without worrying about presentation—it’s functional and elegant all at once.
No Thanksgiving table is complete without pie. This fluted dish doesn’t just bake evenly—it turns out crusts with that golden, bakery-style finish. The scalloped edges make each pie look like it came straight out of a patisserie, while the sturdy stoneware holds heat long enough to keep slices warm for seconds (and thirds).
3.75 qt Signature Cassadou
Heritage Fluted Pie Dish
Heritage Rectangular Baker
First Circle: Le Creuset’s Signature Roaster 37cm in Flint. | Second: Le Creuset’s Signature Cassadou 26cm Artichaut SS Knob. Third: Le Creuset’s Heritage 33cm/3.8L Rect Dish in Meringue. | Fourth: Le Creuset’s Heritage Fluted Pie Dish.
Erica K. Cummings, DDS, MAGD, D-ABDSM is a board-certified general and cosmetic dentist crafting gorgeous smiles throughout The Woodlands. With 18 years of experience as a dentist, Dr. Cummings is proud to own a practice that treats its patients like family.
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A SEAT AT the table
THE SPIRIT OF “FRIENDSGIVING”
ARTICLE BY HEATHER DAVIS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK
As the leaves turn golden, the air grows crisp, and storefronts fill with pumpkins and turkeys, families begin preparing for the long-cherished Thanksgiving traditions. For many, it’s a season of returning home, sharing family recipes, and carrying on traditions passed down through generations.
Yet for others—those who may not have family nearby or who simply wish to extend the season of gratitude— Friendsgiving has become a beloved addition to the holiday. Blending the warmth of friendship with the spirit of Thanksgiving, it offers a space to gather, share a meal, and celebrate chosen family, making the holiday feel even more meaningful.
WHERE DID THE TERM “FRIENDSGIVING” COME FROM?
Many assume the idea came from the popular television show Friends, with its iconic holiday episodes that center around friends sharing a meal. MerriamWebster notes that the word itself didn’t originate there: Internet sleuths traced the first online usage of “Friendsgiving” to a Twitter (now X) post in 2007 and speculated that the word was probably used in spoken language first. The tradition quickly caught momentum, and in 2011, Bailey’s Irish Cream featured the word in an advertising campaign, helping propel it into the cultural spotlight. “Though the term ‘Friendsgiving’ seems to be everywhere, it’s surprisingly new,” records Merriam-Webster. By January 2020, “Friendsgiving” had officially entered the dictionary, solidifying itself
as a recognized tradition. Since then, lifestyle magazines, food blogs, and social media creators have embraced it—sharing menus, planning tips, and creative new ways to celebrate.
FRIENDSGIVING “RULES”
Though it’s less formal than Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving often follows some unofficial guidelines meant to simplify planning and make the event enjoyable for all. According to The Kitchn, Food Network, and Southern Living, there are a few general “rules” that hosts and guests alike can follow:
1. Make It a Potluck
The heart of Friendsgiving lies in shared responsibility. Guests bring dishes, which lightens the host’s load and ensures a variety of flavors. While some prefer to stick with classics— like green bean casserole or canned cranberry sauce—Friendsgiving is the perfect opportunity to debut a treasured family recipe or something entirely new.
2. Ensure Variety
recommended to take responsibility for the turkey and the gravy. Guests can then fill in the table with complementary sides and desserts.
4. Celebrate Before Thanksgiving Day
While there’s no official Friendsgiving date, most celebrate in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. Hosting earlier ensures friends can attend without conflicting family commitments. Since the holiday season gets busy quickly, it’s wise to set a date and send invitations early.
Though the term “Friendsgiving” is widely employed today, it’s surprisingly new—as recent as 2007, according to some internet sleuths.
To avoid a table full of desserts and no sides, some organizers use sign-up sheets or shared documents to help guests coordinate meals. Assigning general categories—like appetizers, sides, mains, or desserts—keeps the spread well-balanced and delicious.
3. Leave the Turkey to the Host Turkey is a centerpiece dish that does not travel well, and it requires preparation space that most guests will not have access to. For this reason, hosts are
5. Focus on Connection
More than food or decorations, Friendsgiving is about gratitude and togetherness. Extending an invitation to a coworker, neighbor, or classmate who might otherwise spend the holiday alone captures the very essence of the season.
6. Make Friendsgiving Your Own
The beauty of Friendsgiving is its flexibility and creativity. Some groups host themed meals, swapping turkey for tacos or pot roast.
Others add games or a “gratitude circle” to share thanks. In a rushed and disconnected world, Friendsgiving reminds us to slow down and savor community. It’s proof that traditions aren’t just inherited—they’re created.
Whether your table has childhood friends, new neighbors, or coworkers who feel like family, the act of coming together over food and gratitude is timeless.
TRIALS TO TRIUMPH
ARTICLE BY DAWN ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
LINDSAY DAWSON EMPOWERS
AMERICA’S YOUTH TO OVERCOME CHALLENGES AND BUILD BRIGHTER FUTURES
Lindsay Dawson's story begins where many young people fear theirs might end: facing adult responsibilities with limited resources. Today, she’s transforming her hard-won lessons into real change for America’s youth through education and advocacy—starting right here in The Woodlands.
FROM STRUGGLE TO STRENGTH
Born in Amarillo, Texas, Dawson’s early years changed course when she and her divorced mother settled in Edmond, Oklahoma. At just 13, she faced another life-altering shift: her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis. As an only child, Dawson shouldered burdens far beyond her years, helping her mother navigate both illness and financial hardship as they moved from one modest apartment to the next—her mother working through treatments with unwavering determination.
Dawson’s father remained a steady influence, instilling the financial literacy principles that would one day define her career. His lessons in household budgeting and financial planning planted the seeds for Dawson’s work that would eventually impact thousands of students.
"My dad taught me early on to have three different accounts, one checking, one savings, and one for investing, and all the life skills,” says Dawson.
She credits both parents with shaping her resilience and strong work ethic, each in their own way, and with teaching her how to persevere through adversity.
High school could have steered Dawson in the wrong direction, but faith, a close-knit church community, and steadfast friends kept her grounded. Though basketball ignited her passion, she understood that education would open the doors to her future.
Honoring Snyder Elementary students with Conroe ISD Ambassador Awards.
With focus and drive, she graduated salutatorian and became the first in her family to attend college. Those years shaped more than her academic success—they honed the fortitude and inner drive her parents had instilled.
Dawson would go on to forge a career as remarkable and unconventional as the path that brought her there.
A CAREER FORGED IN SERVICE
With degrees in finance and international business, Dawson’s career took her from economic analysis for the federal government to diplomatic service in the Middle East. There, as an economic officer, she watched bright young graduates struggle with unemployment and a glaring skills gap—a problem that struck her as both urgent and universal.
Back in the U.S., she confronted a different, but equally pressing, challenge: working with survivors of sex trafficking, she saw how quickly vulnerable youth could be exploited, often through the very phones teens carry in their pockets. The two experiences converged, sharpening her focus and sparking a mission: equipping young people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to navigate life safely and successfully.
THE BIRTH OF UTHRIVE ACADEMY
Dawson’s mission took shape in the form of uThrive Academy, her comprehensive solution to the growing crisis among American youth. First, the sobering statistics: one in five Generation Z individuals—roughly 4 million young people—are classified as NEETs: Not in Education, Employment, or Training—actively disengaged from society. They're facing a perfect storm of economic uncertainty, inflation, mental health challenges, and what researchers call "the anxious generation" phenomenon.
uThrive Academy addresses these challenges head-on with what Dawson calls "a crash course in adulting." The curriculum covers career readiness and financial literacy but goes deeper into the interpersonal skills that employers desperately need. Students learn not just how to get a job, but how to keep it. The program transitions into comprehensive financial literacy: budgeting, saving, investing, smart borrowing, asset protection, understanding health insurance, preventing identity theft, managing finances in relationships, and harnessing the power of compound interest.
LEGISLATIVE VICTORY
Dawson's impact extends beyond her academy to the halls of the Texas Legislature. Working with Senator Brandon Creighton, she played a direct role in passing legislation requiring Texas students to pass a personal financial literacy course to graduate high school. After two years of advocacy, Texas joined the ranks of the roughly half of U.S. states that already mandated financial literacy for graduation.
"I never thought I would cry over legislation," Dawson admits, "but this is a game changer for Texas and for our economy. No longer will half of Texans be living paycheck to paycheck and feeling hopeless about their financial situation long-term.”
AN IMPACT ON OUR COMMUNITY
Dawson's commitment to youth extends beyond programs and policies, reaching directly into her community. This past summer, she partnered with local business people, including Joe's Italian
Lindsay Dawson.
Lindsay with her husband Michael, daughter Juliana, and son Jeremiah.
Reading to children is one of Dawson's favorite things to do.
Restaurant in Conroe, to distribute meals and school supply backpacks, drawing lines of local residents that stretched all the way to Interstate 45. In just 30 minutes, over 800 backpacks and 1,200 meals were handed out—yet many families were still turned away. Given the event's success and the high demand, Dawson and her partners hope to make it an annual tradition. The experience was both heartbreaking and inspiring for Dawson, reinforcing her belief that lasting solutions require more than temporary relief.
"How do we give them a hand up and not just a handout?" Dawson asks, reflecting on her years in humanitarian aid work. "How do we put together sustainable processes that will help people thrive on their own and not just rely on assistance?"
FURTHER SERVICE: CONROE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
This conviction led her to seek election to the Conroe Independent School District Board of Trustees, where she advocates for programs that give students tangible skills for productive adulthood. Under her influence, CISD has implemented a multi-layered approach to student support, including counseling services (with required parental notification as per state law), speakers focused on resilience and character building during Suicide Awareness Month, and a chaplain rotation program providing spiritual and moral support across campuses.
VISION FOR THE FUTURE
When Dawson meets with young people today, she sees intelligence and capability, but also a generation struggling with self-doubt amplified by social media comparison. "They're impressive, very smart, capable, but they need to see it within themselves," she explains. "They need support; they need adults telling them they can do this. They need to stop believing the lies from social media, stop comparing themselves and feeling not good enough."
A LEGACY IN THE MAKING
Lindsay Dawson's journey from a 13-year-old caring for her cancer-stricken mother to a recognized advocate for youth empowerment demonstrates the transformative power of turning personal trials into purposeful action. Through uThrive Academy, legislative advocacy, school board service, and community engagement, she's creating systematic change that reaches thousands of young people. Dawson is living proof that trials, when met with determination and faith, can indeed be transformed into triumph.
Providing students with back-to-school supplies.
We’re excited to welcome you! Sushi Central is officially open, bringing fresh flavors, creative rolls, and an unforgettable dining experience to The Woodlands. Come celebrate with us and taste sushi like never before.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4
At The John Cooper School, students take the lead in planning ways to help the community.
LADDER SUCCESS RE-ENVISIONING THE OF
The John Cooper School Teaches Students to Lead Through Service
A heart for others makes all the difference in the world— to those who are facing struggle, to those lending a hand, and to the community at large. Finding effective ways to serve requires creativity, persistence, and doing the hard work, but most of all, it requires compassion as a starting point, says Dr. Stephen Popp, who heads The John Cooper School, an independent K-12 college preparatory school in The Woodlands.
Founded in 1988 to further the vision of The Woodlands’ founder George Mitchell, Popp says community service involvement is deeply ingrained in the school’s ethos.
“These experiences teach our students that leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about showing up for others and building a shared sense of purpose,” says Popp.
What’s most inspiring about the service work these students are doing, explains Popp, is that the school does not require it as part of the curriculum.
“It’s all volunteer,” says Popp. “They’re not just trying to accrue hours or reach an extrinsic goal.”
The role of teachers and administrators is to open the door. Students are eager to cross the threshold and turn their ideas into action.
Projects range from simple acts of giving to complex multi-year initiatives. Many are set in motion through the school’s local chapter of the service and leadership club, Interact. Marivi Mata, one of the club’s faculty sponsors, says students take the lead in planning ways to help the community, and they generate tons of ideas.
“They design every aspect of the project,” says Mata. “They learn that the vision needs to transform into a road map of scaffolded steps to bring the vision to life. To have a long-lasting impact, they have to advocate for what they care about.”
THE HABITAT PROJECT
One of the most comprehensive projects is the Habitat Project, a student-led, faculty-sponsored partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County that began during the 1999-2000 school year with a student proposal, explains Samir Muhith, the school’s Habitat Project faculty sponsor.
From its very beginning, the project has been a schoolwide effort, engaging students at all grade levels, along with support from their families and the wider community. Lower school and middle school students raise and donate funds and participate in Paint Day, says Muhith. Upper school students and parents work alongside other volunteers to build affordable housing in Conroe’s Cedar Creek neighborhood. Donning hard hats and wielding hammers and other tools, they help at every phase of construction, building more than two dozen single-family homes over the years.
Muhith says the lasting impact of the Habitat Project extends to the continuing bond between Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County and the John Cooper community, with alumni and parents playing key roles in the Habitat MCTX mission and growth.
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY LAURA L. GREEN
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“The experience of community engagement becomes part of them,” says head of The John Cooper School Dr. Stephen Popp.
THE FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER
Another area of focus, says Mata, is the effort to alleviate hunger. Many students commit to helping Montgomery County Food Bank, says Mata, volunteering at the organization’s main distribution center to sort fresh and shelf-stable foods. Others work with the Montgomery County-based Keep US Fed initiative to collect fresh food each week from Whole Foods and other grocers. Students sort and weigh the food and then deliver it to local food pantries. Still other students are creating humanitarian aid kits for the RISE Against Hunger program and collecting healthy snacks and decorating bags that go to poverty-stricken school-aged children through the nonprofit Kids Meals, Inc. program. The time-honored tradition of donating canned goods is taken to a new level when students come together in teams to plan and
construct elaborate structures on campus. These structures are made entirely of cans for an annual project held by the international relief organization Canstruction, collecting thousands of cans of food in the process.
TURNING IDEAS INTO ACTION
The annual upper school “Cooper Cares Day” is a full academic day set aside specifically for putting service projects into action through school clubs and organizations, says Mata.
On this special day and throughout the year, she explains, wherever there is a need, John Cooper students are finding ways to get to work: ensuring that Christmas gifts are under the tree for those in need as part of the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program; sponsoring an annual fundraising event for the Empty Bowls Project of Interfaith Ministries of The Woodlands; providing creative art outreach
Research indicates that young people who volunteer and continue to do so into adulthood are building crucial life skills that lead to greater satisfaction.
One of the most comprehensive projects students work on is the Habitat Project.
at senior living facilities through the school’s chapter of the National Art Honor Society; teaching STEM skills to preschoolers at The Woodlands Children’s Museum; and collecting and packing medical supplies through the school’s Medical and Professionals Club.
Some of the most important impacts are apparent in the area of mental health, says Mata. John Cooper’s learning framework combines the RULER emotional intelligence model with the work of Active Minds, a leading nonprofit that promotes mental health awareness and education. Students meet regularly throughout the
Founded in 1988, The John Cooper School's community service involvement is deeply engrained in the school’s ethos.
year and host events that bring mental health needs to light and strengthen support among students, parents, and teachers.
All of these efforts are making an impact, says Popp, and the community recently expressed its appreciation when, in 2024, The John Cooper School was honored with the prestigious Hometown Hero award by Interfaith Ministries, acknowledging the school’s deep commitment to service and academic excellence.
MORE THAN WORDS ON A WALL
Popp says that John Cooper’s mission of creating the leaders of tomorrow is exemplified by the time, energy, and creativity that students put into their service commitments.
“Our mission statement is not simply words on a wall,” says Mata.
He said the school’s philosophy reaches back to its namesake, longtime educator and founder, Dr. John Cooper, who believed that service should stand alongside academics, the arts, and athletics as a cornerstone of
educating the whole child. In fact, research indicates that young people who volunteer and continue to do so into adulthood are building crucial life skills that lead to greater personal and career satisfaction, according to work published by the American Medical Association.
There may be no better symbol of the exuberant nature of student generosity and service than the annual Lower School John Cooper Day celebration, says Jessica Holloway, the school’s director of marketing and communications, who helps to organize the event.
Many alumni make a point of returning for the festivities, which in recent years have included a pet food and supply drive for Abandoned Animal Rescue, assembling breakfast bags for Meals on Wheels of Montgomery County, and creating artwork to express appreciation to school staff. Holloway says the day culminates with the Kinder-Senior Procession, a cherished tradition that signifies the journey from elementary student to high school graduate, from curiosity to wisdom, the ongoing quest to reach higher and to help others do the same.
“The experience of community engagement becomes part of them,” says Popp, “something that will stay with them forever.”
At The John Cooper School, projects range from simple acts of giving to complex multi-year initiatives.
The John Cooper School’s philosophy reaches back to its namesake, longtime educator and founder, Dr. John Cooper.
"As an employer, I'm really taken back by the education and hands on training this school provides. I have hired two newly graduated estheticians and after I interviewed the first one, I had to ask for a tour and see how the applicant was so knowledgeable and confident. It has been such a great employment decision for both candidates and they are thriving in their profession! Highly recommend this school for looking to get into esthetics as well as employers looking to build their teams and can feel confident that the applicant is thoroughly trained
~ Kingwood Hand & Stone Spa Manager
A Helping Hand
3 Meaningful Ways to Give Back This Fall
ARTICLE BY LANA WILKENS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK
Mitch Albom wrote, “Sometimes when you sacrifice something precious, you’re not really losing it. You’re just passing it on to someone else.” Where can we invest, even the simple gestures like showing up, a smile, or time? From lending a hand to sharing your unique skills, fall in The Woodlands is the perfect season to turn generosity into action—and feel the joy it brings.
Looking to help children?
The Champion Project partners with churches to facilitate mentorship, book buses, tutoring, and more. Audra Simpson, co-founder, says these programs “give the kids pathways” toward a successful future. Many have parental rights terminated, so the needs are broad, but the commitment on the part of volunteers is accessible, as mentoring a child means meeting twice a month. Even showing up in these kids’ lives for a day can shift the course of their lives for the better. For more information, go to thechampionproject.org.
Want to ease another’s burden?
At The Montgomery County Women’s Center, local women in need who have suffered in a variety of ways enter transitional housing, gather needed items, and receive legal counsel, along with other services. Taking a lovingly prepared casserole to the Women’s Center could be a great way to love on them. Consider a role in the office helping with clerical duties or even staffing a store that gives these women the chance to begin their next phase in life, with all their practical needs met. Ways to give or volunteer can be found at mcwctx.org
S eeking to encourage the disadvantaged?
Want to help those with mental health issues or physical disabilities? A unique organization, Inspiration Ranch, offers its herd to help with “learning and healing.” All ages can benefit, even those with mental decline have been known to benefit from equine-assisted therapy and interaction. One opportunity can be as simple as ambling alongside those in therapy, doing basic administrative work, or assisting in event planning. Giving the gift of time at the ranch. More information is available at inspirationranch.org.
There’s no better time than this holiday season to ask ourselves: What would it look like to pass along my gifts to those in need?
"A house is made of bricks and beams. A home is made of hopes and dreams."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
Congratulations to Beth Ferester on once again being named one of the top agents in the US by Real Trends!
Wheels | Watches | Whiskey
The Annual Celebration of Craft, Community, and Cause
The Stella Hotel and Lake Walk in Bryan once again became the stage for an unforgettable weekend as the third annual Wheels | Watches | Whiskey event unfolded in late September. Presented by The Gentleman Racer in partnership with McLaren, the gathering brought together more than 400 guests who shared an appreciation for fine automobiles, exceptional timepieces, and the art of a wellcrafted spirit.
The appeal of Wheels | Watches | Whiskey has always been its balance of indulgence and purpose. Beyond the shine of polished coachwork and the sparkle of jewels, the weekend carried a profound mission. Proceeds from the event supported OnRamp Texas, a Brazos Valley nonprofit dedicated to helping families in need secure reliable transportation. In many parts of Texas, where distances are vast and public transit limited, a dependable vehicle is not simply a convenience but a lifeline. By the close of the weekend, over $10,000 had been raised—enough to place a safe and dependable car in the hands of a deserving family.
That generosity gave the event a sense of weight beneath the glamor. Guests weren’t just perusing artwork, sipping whiskey or admiring supercars; they were contributing to a cause that changes lives in immediate, tangible ways. OnRamp’s mission resonates in a region where mobility often dictates opportunity, and the support shown underscored a shared belief in giving back.
A WEEKEND OF ELEGANCE
The event has quickly established itself as a fixture on the Texas luxury calendar, and this year’s edition proved why. The back lawn of The Stella Hotel shimmered beneath a soft autumn sky, lined with an enviable array of machinery. McLaren headlined the display, joined by Ferrari, Aston Martin, Lamborghini, and a number of bespoke Land Rovers from Helderburg. Collectors and enthusiasts mingled among the cars, drawn as much by the craftsmanship as the stories behind each machine.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY TRAVIS HAGER
Interior of a bespoke Defender 90 from Helderburg.
Inside, attention shifted to the wrist. Guests browsed curated displays from Bulova, Seaholm, and David Gardner’s Jewelers, the latter presenting an elegant line of Tudor watches. The atmosphere was less showroom and more salon, a chance for collectors to linger over dials and complications while sharing conversations with fellow connoisseurs.
No less thoughtfully curated was the selection at Hershel’s Whiskey Bar, where guests enjoyed tastings from distinguished houses. Tamdhu, The World Whiskey Society, Maverick Distilling, Four Roses, and Brazos Valley Vodka Company all poured their best, inviting exploration from the first neat sip to inventive cocktails. It was a setting that encouraged discovery, and more than a few new favorites were found.
LUXURY WITH A PURPOSE
Sunday brought a fitting coda in the form of the Round Top Rally. Nearly two dozen cars departed from The Stella, winding through the countryside toward the historic town of Round Top. Led by Michael Satterfield, the convoy arrived to a warm welcome and a special lunch at Royers Round Top Café, blending small-town charm with the weekend’s spirit of camaraderie.
Three years in, Wheels | Watches | Whiskey has proven to be more than an event. It is a celebration of heritage and craft, an ode to mechanical artistry, and a gathering of people who understand that luxury has greater meaning when paired with generosity. The cars gleamed, the watches ticked, and the glasses clinked, but the real triumph was measured in lives changed through OnRamp’s work. That is what makes this gathering not just successful, but significant.
A look inside The Stella Hotel.
Helderburg's Defender 90.
ARTICLE BY AUNIKA ANDERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Thanksgiving Done Your Way
DELICIOUS HOLIDAY DINING WITHOUT THE MESS
Azzurro Italian Coastal Cuisine
Say goodbye to holiday stress and hello to elegant cuisine! An alternative to traditional turkey, enjoy handcrafted pasta or fresh seafood instead. Open for dine-in from 12 p.m.–8 p.m.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Indulge in a 3-course special holiday meal, served from 11 a.m.–8 p.m., for dine-in or to-go. With housemade stuffing on the table, expect clean plates all around.
Grille
For a holiday free from cooking and hosting, enjoy a memorable dining experience from 11 a.m.–10 p.m., featuring their full dinner menu—from braised short rib to filet mignon.
Ocean Club
Savor the season with cinnamon and pecan butter cake and an elegant dinner menu, served from 1 p.m.–9 p.m. for dine-in or to-go, while live music fills the evening from 5 p.m.
Enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings, including a succulent smoked turkey breast and pumpkin cheesecake for pickup on November 26-27, or dine in from 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille
Del Frisco’s
Mastro’s
Meredith Boudousquié Founder | Editor-In-Chief
Cajun-Style Fried Turkey
ARTICLE BY TRAVIS
HAGER
| PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK A CHEF’S RECIPE
For decades, Clay Alling—former chef at Baker Street and Local Pour—has carried on a beloved tradition: Cajun-style fried turkey. Super juicy, slightly spicy, and utterly addictive, this festive centerpiece turns any Thanksgiving table into a celebration of flavor and heritage, reflecting the meticulous care and Southern roots that have defined Alling’s culinary career.
Tired of the traditional Thanksgiving fare? Look no further.
Optional Cajun Seasoning Mix:
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp cayenne
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
Servings: 8–10
Prep: 30 min + brining time (optional)
Cook: 45–60 min
Ingredients
Turkey & Marinade:
• 1 whole turkey, 12–14 lbs, thawed
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade; see below)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
For Frying:
• 3–4 gallons peanut oil (or another high smoke-point oil)
• 1 large stockpot or turkey fryer with thermometer
Instructions
1. Prepare the Turkey:
• Remove giblets and pat the turkey dry inside and out with paper towels.
• Rub the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic/ onion powders, cayenne, salt, and black pepper over the entire turkey.
• Optional: Marinate the turkey in buttermilk for 2–6 hours (or overnight) in the fridge—this adds moisture and mellows spice.
2. Heat the Oil:
• In a turkey fryer or large stockpot, fill with oil, leaving 3–4 inches of space at the top.
• Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer—this is critical.
3. Prepare for Frying:
• Ensure the turkey is completely dry if marinated, to prevent dangerous oil splatter.
• Slowly lower the turkey into the hot oil, breast side up.
4. Fry the Turkey:
• Fry for about 3–4 minutes per pound (so a 12-lb bird takes ~36–48 minutes).
• Maintain oil temperature around 325–350°F; adjust heat as needed.
5. Check for Doneness:
• Use a meat thermometer: breast should reach 165°F, thigh 175°F.
6. Rest the Turkey:
• Carefully remove from oil and let rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 20–30 minutes before carving.
CAJUN-STYLE
FRIED TURKEY
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
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.
WEEKENDS THROUGH NOVEMBER 30TH & THANKSGIVING FRIDAY
Texas Renaissance Festival
21778 Farm to Market 1774 in Todd Mission Huzzah! The Texas Renaissance Festival is back for another year of merriment. Each year local visitors are transported to an era of chivalry and enchantment at what has become the largest and most acclaimed Renaissance-themed attraction in the United States. The festival is a limited engagement, so don't miss your opportunity to visit the Renaissance era this fall! texrenfest.com
NOVEMBER 1ST
2025 Montgomery County Heart Walk
Northshore Park | 8:00 AM
The American Heart Association invites you to participate in the Montgomery County Heart Walk to broaden their impact by turning bystanders into lifesavers. Their goal is to have one person in every household confident and prepared to perform CPR. Every dollar raised through this walk means more people trained in lifesaving CPR and more research to save lives. www2.heart.org/site/TR/HeartWalk/ SWA-SouthWestAffiliate?fr_id=12035&pg=entry
NOVEMBER 8TH
The Woodlands Photography Club’s 2025 Exhibit and Award Ceremony
The Mink Street Community Center in Willis | 5:30 PM
All are welcome all to attend and enjoy a stunning photography exhibit at The Woodlands Photography Club's annual member exhibit and award ceremony. The event will take place Saturday, November 8th from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM at The Mink Street Community Center at 109 W. Mink Street in Willis.
NOVEMBER 21ST - 23RD
2025 Junior League Holiday Market
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center | 9:00 AM
Start your holiday shopping early at the Junior League Holiday Market — a shopping extravaganza featuring items from local boutiques. This event is a major fundraiser for Junior League of The Woodlands and all proceeds will benefit the programs they support. Hours: November 21 & 22: 9 AM - 6 PM | November 23: 10 AM - 4 PM
NOVEMBER 22ND
Lighting of The Doves
Town Green Park | 5:00 PM
Kick off the holiday season in The Woodlands at the annual Lighting of the Doves. The festival includes traditional and international performances, snow play areas, vendor booths, children’s activities and strolling entertainment. The evening culminates with a special appearance by Santa Claus all of the way from the North Pole and an awe-inspiring fireworks display. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ Departments/Parks-Recreation/Special-Events/Lighting-of-the-Doves
NOVEMBER 27TH
YMCA Run Thru The Woods 2025
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | 7:30 AM
Wake up early and get in a run before enjoying your Thanksgiving feast at the 36th annual YMCA Run Thru the Woods! With a variety of distance options, there is something for everyone at this family friendly event: 5 mile race, 3 mile race or walk, and a 1 mile kids race. Proceeds raised support the YMCA's Annual Campaign. runsignup.com/Race/TX/TheWoodlands/RunThruWoods
EVERY SHADE OF YOU
Your favourite colour. That’s a tricky one. Depends on the day, the light, the season, your mood. Chances are you have more than one. That’s why you should consider the Seamaster Aqua Terra Shades collection. There’s a dial for every shade of you. Here’s one of many. We call this colour Bay Green. You can call it what you like – and wear it whenever you please.
