Northwest Houston Newcomer & Relocation Guide - 2019 Issue 2

We’ve been dedicated to the care of Texas’ children since 1954.

With Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands right in your community, we’ve got you covered, from specialties like radiology, renal and sports medicine to complex inpatient and emergency care. Our focus on kids means we’re able to treat more pediatric conditions than any other hospital in the region.

It’s our specialty.

Schedule online: texaschildrens.org

© 2019 Texas Children’s Hospital. All rights reserved. WLD_137833_19

contents | features 14

Shopping and Entertainment in Northwest Houston

22

SPOTLIGHT: Inner Loop Living in Houston

89

The Premier Wineries Near Houston

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Northwest Houston’s Delicious Dining Scene

PHOTOGRAPHY We would like to thank the following for their contributions: GHCVB Houston The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau - Derrick Bryant Photography Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Towne Lake-Caldwell Communities Cypress Christian School Land Tejas Lone Star College UH Downtown Houston Dynamo Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Patrinely Group Eric Pohl Annette Evans Lennar Homes Klein ISD Beazer Homes Busy Bee Realty Tomball ISD

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Salem Lutheran School

EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following

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22

writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Joy Oden Cecile Adams

Š WEB Media Group LLC 2019 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.

A U S T I N R E L O C AT I O N G U I D E . C O M

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contents | sections WELCOME TO NORTHWEST HOUSTON • 10

16

HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 16 17 Cities & Neighborhoods 19 C ost of Living 22 Inner Loop Living

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HOME FRONT • 26 28 Choosing A Realtor 30 Mortgage Options

EDUCATION IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON • 32 33 STAAR 34 Public Schools 40 Private Schools 45 Higher Education

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ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 48 51 Senior Housing Options 52 Assisted Living Communities

RELOCATION INFORMATION • 54 56 Utilities and Services 57 Public Transportation 62 Places of Worship

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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 64 66 Area Hospitals 66 Medical Moving Tips 68 Finding a Doctor

BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 70 72 North Houston Major Employers List 72 A rea Chambers of Commerce 74 H ouston by the Numbers

80

76 C ity of Conroe Top Employers

LEISURE + RECREATION • 78 80 Sports & Golf

Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

CEO Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Adams PROJECT MANAGER Jill Roe ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Paul Yarbrough Candi Thomas SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón Northwest Houston Newcomer Guide is published and distributed bi-annually

by WEB Media Group LLC. For advertising information, please call 713-952-1916.

Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication.

WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.

83 Parks & Attractions 86 Arts and Culture 89 Texas Wineries

4

300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752

90 Dining & Shopping

Phone: 512-266-2900

92 Calendar of Events

www.TexasRelocationGuides.com

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WELCOME FROM THE

WOODLANDS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Woodlands has one of the largest business communities in the north Houston area. Learn more about out business environment and friendly community, we welcome you!

Greetings from The Chamber!

The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing quality services, creating opportunities for business success and serving as an effective catalyst for the economic growth and prosperity of our community. Through the collective strength of over 2000 members and our staff, we are committed to legendary leadership, business advocacy, economic prosperity, partnerships, access to innovative resources and unprecedented service to our community.

The Woodlands Area offers extraordinary amenities, top-rated public and private schools, higher education institutions close to home and an exploding medical corridor.

We hope that you choose to be a part of the dynamic business community that The Woodlands Area has to offer. You will find that our community fosters business growth, embodies a welcoming attitude as well as a charitable spirit. We encourage you to join us in The Woods.

Sincerely,

JJ Hollie J.J. HOLLIE President and CEO The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce

9320 Lakeside Blvd The Woodlands, TX 77381 281-367-5777 info@woodlandschamber.org www.woodlandschamber.org

WELCOME FROM THE

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE The Northwest Houston area is full of excellent job opportunities with plenty of room for career growth. Come do business with us!

Dear Northwest Houston Newcomer,

8711 Highway 6 North Houston, TX 77095 (281) 373-1390 staff@cyfairchamber.com www.cyfairchamber.com

29201 Quinn Road., Suite B Tomball, TX 77375 (281) 351-7222 admin@tomballchamber.org www.tomballchamber.org

3920 Cypress Creek Pkwy.

(FM 1960 West) Suite 120 Houston, TX 77068 (281) 440-4160 www.houstonnwchamber.com

On behalf of the three area Chambers of Commerce, and all of their members, it is an honor to welcome you to Houston’s Great Northwest. You may be assured that you will find exactly what you are looking for within the region.

We are proud of our community, and we really do have it all. Outstanding retail centers, fine hotels and restaurants, and excellent recreational opportunities are close to home in Northwest Houston. Our highway and transportation infrastructure is ever-growing to meet the mobility needs of our residents and businesses. And of course, our trees, lakes, streams, and miles of greenbelt are there for your family to enjoy each and every day.

Business development along Highway 290 and SH 249 Technology Corridor provide unlimited opportunities for emerging, growing or relocating businesses. Additionally, commercial and residential growth is tremendous. In all parts of our Northwest Area, new homes, re-sale homes, apartments, and townhouses continue to meet the demands of families relocating to our area.

Educational options are a principle concern for our relocating families. Cypress-Fairbanks, Houston, Klein, Magnolia, Montgomery, Spring and Tomball Independent School Districts are among the very best in Texas. Additionally, there is an outstanding variety of private and parochial schools from which to choose.

We welcome you to our area and would like the opportunity to serve you personally.

Please do not hesitate to contact us or simply stop by our offices to see how we may be able to assist you in your relocation.

Sincerely,

Leslie Martone, President Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce

9320 Lakeside Blvd The Woodlands, TX 77381 281-367-5777 info@woodlandschamber.org www.woodlandschamber.org

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Bruce Hillegeist, President Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce

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JJ Hollie

J.J. Hollie, President and CEO The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce

Barbara Thomason, President Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce

WELCOME FROM

MONTGOMERY COUNTY Find all you are looking for in Montgomery, from beautiful homes to a strong economic structure. Quality of life is key to the success of our fast-growing area.

Dear Friend and Neighbor: Welcome to Montgomery County, the 7th - fasting growing county in the nation and a thriving community that has become a great place to raise families and run a business or develop a career. From The Woodlands to Willis to historic Montgomery and the waters of a sprawling Lake Conroe, welcome to the place where the words “quality of life” have kept their meaning.

As your County Judge, I preside over Commissioners’ Court and serve as the Chief Executive Officer for Montgomery County government. Having previously served as county commissioner of Precinct 2 since Aug. 2001, over that time I have learned that one of the keys to keeping our quality of life is our economic development program to attract new industries and corporations. That has enables us to broaden our county’s tax base and maintain an affordable cost of living for the residents of this community.

As a 4th generation Montgomery County resident, a husband and a father of three, it is as important to me as it is to you to have a community where our children are challenged to learn, encouraged to seek their dreams and are supported with facilities and services that are conducive to a safe and nourishing environment. If all of us work together we can accomplish these goals. Once again, welcome to Montgomery County.

Please feel free to contact me or my staff if you need assistance.

Warm Regards,

Craig Doyal County Judge Montgomery County

501 North Thompson, Suite 401 Conroe, Texas 77301 936-539-7812 | 281-364-4200 Fax: 936-760-6919 cojudge@mctx.org www.mctx.org

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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WELCOME TO

GREATER NORTHWEST HOUSTON Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in the Northwest Houston region and take advantage of what the community has to offer.

Welcome to Houston, Texas — one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, incredible cuisine, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation destinations.

As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll no doubt notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.

HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax: 713- 961-4869

BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax: 281-486-7530

MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760

The Houston real estate market has been among the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle — for those buying or renting. The more than 39,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR.com) help make the American Dream come true for individuals and families every day. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization, and our members appreciate that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make.

More than a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which actually showcases property listings for the entire state of Texas. Our site offers user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more.

Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more.

On behalf of HAR, it’s my distinct pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you take advantage of everything our incredible community has to offer.

Sincerely,

Fax: 936-273-0344

FORT BEND 6680 Greatwood Pkwy.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557

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Shannon Cobb Evans 2019 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS®/HAR.com

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In this section

Welcome Tourism & Culture City Summaries Houston by the Numbers

10

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to e m o c l We

NORTHWEST HOUSTON Thousands of newcomers relocate to Houston each year from all over the country and the world, today, it’s the fourth largest city in the U.S. As the city grows, so do its services and the Northwest Houston and Montgomery County area is home to world-class hospitals, leading- edge educational centers, and wonderful places to live.

Houston is the City with No Limits: the quality of life is wonderful; the culture is dynamic and the economy is stable. In the nine-county Houston metro area over 117,800 jobs were created from October 2017 through October 2018. Here, you’ll also find the most ethnically diverse population of any city in the U.S., and the vibrant arts and dining scenes reflect that. While it can get hot and humid in the summer, (that is when you’ll be enjoying that air-conditioning), the rest of the year is temperate and often sunny.

its excellent amenities, convenient businesses and retail centers, fine schools and leafy parkland, all within easy access to central Houston, it is easy to see why. The Northwest Houston area is more commonly identified by their great communities, such as Klein, Cypress, Tomball, Champions and Spring. The lush, rolling landscape of Northwest Houston as far out as the Montgomery County area, which becomes green with forest and trees lining the horizon as the community does all they can to maintain their natural landscape.

many other great communities.

Mont-

gomery County is economically strong, with companies such as ExxonMobil selecting this area to build their new headquarters.

The ExxonMobil campus is 385-acres and is located in Spring, just west of where I-45 and the Hardy Toll Road meet.

Already,

the

“ExxonMobil

effect”

is

becoming evident in new planned communities breaking ground throughout the Montgomery

County

area.

Established

communities such as The Woodlands Increasingly, the Northwest Houston area is a popular choice for new residents. With

The Montgomery County area is comprised of The Woodlands, Conroe, Willis and

continue to thrive and enhance their appeal to residents and visitors alike. The region

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WELCOME TO NORTHWEST HOUSTON

Photo Courtesy of Visit Houston

is enjoying a new focus on quality of life and transportation, with projects such as the exciting Spring Creek Greenway and the Grand Parkway, now open all the way from U.S. 59 South (aka the Southwest Freeway) to U.S. 59 North in the northeast Houston region.

Montgomery County has always been a region on the move, from the days of stage- coaches to today’s super jets and express roadways. And it’s always looked to the future, from the railroad and sawmill pioneers of the 1800s, to the leading scientists at the Houston Advanced Research Center today.

The Northwest Houston region has homes available that are suitable for anyone. From custom residences to townhomes, rental and resale homes, finding something to suit a budget and a preference is well within the realm of possibilities. People relocating can choose from the many golf course neighborhoods with luxury houses lining the fairways, or master-planned communities with wonderful amenities, to the outlying acreages offering pastoral living. Increasingly popular are the select neighborhoods built with the environment

12

Lake Conroe - Photo Courtesy of Annette Evans

in mind, where harmonious ecological balance and quality of life for residents are the goals. Whatever the housing dream may be, it can come true here.

Your children can get an excellent education. Northwest Houston and Montgomery County area is served by multiple effective independent public school districts and a variety of private schools. Many of the schools are award-winning and, on their reputations alone, draw new residents to the area.

The Houston area teems with options and opportunity. And Northwest Houston extending into Montgomery County, with its strong schools and excellent medical facilities, is an ideal choice for growing families.

RECREATION The rolling, treed terrain of Northwest Houston was a draw to the first inhabitants of the area, and still is today. There are many parks, green spaces and waterways where you can escape the city’s bustle and ground yourself in nature. Here, you can play a world-class golf course, paddle down a bubbling bayou, listen to the trill

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of a cardinal, then enjoy an internationally famous dining experience. If you’re a hunter, fisherman or birder, you’ll find lots in the area to excite you. If you like to watch, you can take in your child’s baseball game or a major-league one at Minute Maid park, home to the World Champion Houston Astros. Most of the year, Houston’s mild climate means that you can enjoy the many outside attractions almost every day.

Montgomery County plays an important role in the area’s quality of life today, providing recreational opportunities and beautiful backdrops for homes and communities. One of the area’s most exciting and ambitious projects is the Spring Creek Greenway, which preserves some of the pristine forests seen by the Akokisa Indians, who roamed the land more than 200 years ago. The Spring Creek Greenway conserves 12,000 acres of forest on both sides of the creek, making it the longest contiguous forested urban corridor in the nation.

Several large anchor parks along the Spring Creek Greenway are ready to enjoy, including 55-acre Dennis Johnston Park,

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WELCOME TO NORTHWEST HOUSTON

Photo Courtesy of The Boardwalk - Caldwell Companies

Photo Courtesy of Houston Dynamo

featuring a popular loop trail, a fishing

with public art, cinemas, and

a Wi-Fi

schools, there are excellent musical and dance

pond, a butterfly and hummingbird garden,

enabled Central Park. Old Town Spring is a

performances all around the area. Symphony

and Big Stone Lodge, available for rental.

historic, turn-of-the-last-century collection

North performs throughout the year. The

The Greenway also connects many of the

of Victorian-era shops and restaurants. The

Cypress Creek Foundation for the Arts

area’s existing natural jewels, including

many and varied shopping experiences in

(FACE) stages concerts by inter- nationally

Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens

Houston mean that most anything can be

acclaimed performers, soloists, ensembles

and Jesse Jones Park. The area is home to

found right here.

and multicultural groups. The Cynthia

many large natural areas, such as 163,000-

Woods Mitchell Pavilion, one of the nation’s

acre Sam Houston National Forest and

When finished shopping, there’s still plenty

premier outdoor entertainment venues, pres-

1,722-acre W. G. Jones State Forest.

to do.

There are any number of events,

ents between 50 and 65 events every March

festivals, wine-tastings, barbeques, concerts,

through December, ranging from rock to

Lake Conroe, a 21,000-acre lake mean-

celebrations and parades to keep you

classical, jazz to county, and modern opera to

dering along 21 miles, is the reserve

intrigued and entertained. And the greater

contemporary American ballet.

drinking water supply for the City of

Houston area, the most diverse collection of

Houston and offers clean, clear water for

people in the country, has culinary treats for

The Pearl Fincher

recreation,

fishing,

every palate and pocket- book. Experience

Arts brings world-class art exhibitions to

hunting, hiking, golfing, swimming, water

the rich collection of food trucks, cafes, and

northwest Houston, and has exhibited

skiing and much more. Its shores are lined

restaurants that Houston and its northwest

everything from European masterworks

with prestigious communities and resorts.

corner have to offer.

to contemporary art glass. This museum,

SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT

Not only that, but area residents are handy

Bush Library, form the growing Cypress

to exciting horseracing at the Sam Houston

Creek Cultural District.

Indoors, patrons can find an amazing array

Race Park, water-sliding thrills at Wet

of items in the many quaint shops, small

‘n’ Wild SplashTown, the region’s largest

The area’s many museums, galleries and

retail centers, several large malls, or the

water amusement park, themed attractions

artistic displays are sure to impress and

major outlet mall in Cypress which offers

and entertainments that are part of

the

inspire. n addition, just down the road, are

merchandise from well-known designers.

Texas Renaissance Festival, and much,

the constantly changing, world-class offer-

Market Street in The Woodlands is an

much more.

ings of Houston’s cultural scene.

and one of the region’s finest shopping

CULTURE

TRANSPORTATION

and entertainment destinations. Market

Culture and the arts are celebrated in north-

Even though the city stretches over 627

Street has more than 75 national and

west Houston. Not only are there many

square miles, it’s easy to get around using the

specialty retailers and restaurants, along

dramatic

freeways, toll roads, HOV lanes and METRO

including

boating,

Museum

of

Fine

along with the Centrum and the Barbara

award-winning

14

mixed-use

town

center

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2020

companies

and

routes which have been recently extended adding greater mobility. Many businesses are located in outlying hubs, so you can choose to live close to work. For Northwest area residents, the Exxon Mobil campus, and the Energy Corridor are very handy. So too, is the George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Northwest Houston is intersected with a growing network of highways and transit options providing residents with convenient access to the Houston region and the world.

The Grand Parkway, also known as State Highway 99, is Houston’s third loop and has opened all the way from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59 North, bisecting the region on a southwest-to-northeast axis, and making it possible to drive nonstop from Fort Bend County to Montgomery County. The Grand Parkway passes right by the newly opened ExxonMobil campus and many new developments in the area. Any of the Texas-based tags (the HCTRA EZTag, TxDOT TxTAG or NTTA TollTag) will work on the Grand Parkway and on the rest of the toll roads in Houston and across Texas.

The new Tomball Tollway, Hardy Toll Road and I-45 North provide more critical transportation links for Houston’s northwest.

Now in the final design phase, the Hardy

She has a sleek and contemporary exterior coupled with sophisticated and luxurious finishes that emphasize Hotel Alessandra’s beautiful simplicity interwoven with a sense of timelessness and sophistication. Located in the Greenstreet development of downtown Houston, our newest hotel transforms this urban area into a vibrant and well - rounded environment.

Designer Lauren Rottet, Founder for Rottet Studio says “Alessandra transplants old world luxury to blend seamlessly with southern charm, sophistication, and a business savvy mindset:’ INDULGE ALL THE SENSES: • 223 elegantly appointed rooms and suites • Custom Valencia Bed with luxurious linens • Complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access in all guest rooms and public areas • 50 inch LED Televisions

DELIVERING THE EXPERIENCE: • Valencia VIP progam • Spa & swimming pool • Fitness center • Complimentary Maserati car service, within the downtown area, based on demand

Downtown Connector will extend the Hardy Toll Road from its current terminus at the 610 Loop all the way into downtown Houston, alleviating congestion at the Loop.

When this connector is completed, the Hardy Toll Road will be an approximately 25-mile express route from downtown Houston to just south of The Woodlands.

Improvements to I-45 between the Sam Houston Tollway and Downtown are also in the works and will be a great benefit for Northwest Houston residents who work in central Houston. METRO Park & Ride services and even water taxis in The Woodlands round out the area’s diverse mobility infrastructure. 

1070 Dallas Street, Houston, Texas 77002 Reservation 844.204.5851 | Direct 713.242.8555

HOTELALESSANDRA-HOUSTON.COM HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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In this section

Cities & Neighborhoods Master Planned Communities Cost of Living Inner Loop Living

Miramesa Amenities Photo Courtesy of Land Tejas

16

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HOUSING &

NEIGHBORHOODS Home to lakes, forests, gently rolling hills, and all the conveniences, Northwest Houston and Montgomery County delight newcomers with historic small-town charm and leading-edge master-planned communities.

Northwest Houston and Montgomery County are a vibrant mosaic of old towns abuzz with renewed vitality and new communities. With its beautiful environment, highly regarded schools, convenient network of roadways and growing number of major employers such as ExxonMobil new residents from all over are making the area home.

Newcomers will find a tremendous variety of homes and neighborhoods to choose from – including large-lot communities, lakefront and golf course developments, and master- planned communities of all sizes.

Here are brief profiles of some of the most appealing neighborhoods and communities.

More information is available at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.

ALDINE

CHAMPIONS/ 1960

Situated just north of Beltway 8 and

Champions takes its name from the

handy to the George Bush Intercontinental

Champions Golf Club and its prestigious

Airport is Meadowview Farms, a Trailwood

golf course, which has been home to the

Community by Friendswood Development

Ryder Cup, the United States Open, The

Company. New, affordable homes, priced

TOUR Championship and others. Settled

from the $150s to $230s make this commu-

between Highway 249 and Interstate 45,

nity a great choice. School-aged children

the slightly rolling, leafy terrain features

are served by Aldine ISD.

Champion Forest, Olde Oaks and Northgate Forest, neighborhoods which offer

Another Trailwood Community, Mount

homes for empty nesters or large fami-

Royal Village, sits at Hwy 249 at West

lies; prices range from the $200,000 up

Mount Houston. Beautiful homes are priced

to several million. Area students attend

from the $140s to $210s. Situated in the

schools in the Klein and Cy-Fair Indepen-

heart of Houston, residents have easy access

dent School Districts. Shop- ping, dining

to work and play; students attend Aldine

and entertainment options are many and

ISD schools.

varied along FM 1960.

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HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

Miramesa Community; Photo Courtesy of of Land Tejas

The Boardwalk - Photo Courtesy of Caldwell Companies

CONROE

plenty of entertainment. Part of the highly

The largest city and county seat of Montgomery County is named after lumberman Isaac Conroe, who founded a sawmill there in 1881. The new city was originally called Conroe’s Switch, since it sat at the junction of two railroads. Shortened to Conroe, the city prospered because of its thriving lumber and oil industries, and for one brief period it boasted more millionaires per capita than another other U.S. city.

regarded Conroe ISD, homes in the commu-

Today, Conroe is booming like never before, as Houston’s growth continues its northward march, and ExxonMobil’s new campus opens and fills up. The city is home to two craft beer breweries and a distillery, and it shows off its proud history at the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park.

Conroe has 24 city parks and a lively historic downtown filled with two antique malls, two live performance theaters, art galleries, eateries and much more.

Several new communities have recently opened in the Conroe area, including Grand Central Park. Located just 5 miles north of The Woodlands, Grand Central Park is a master-planned community that is growing quickly due to their proximity to the Montgomery County energy corridor.

The community has any inviting amenities, such as a dog park, a lake house, trails and pathways, everything to ensure residents have

18

nity are within close proximity to schools at every grade level.

CYPRESS FAIRBANKS Encompassing Cypress and the city of Jersey Village, Cy-Fair is one of the largest communities

in

Northwest

Houston.

Cypress Creek meanders through neighborhoods like Copperfield, Steeplechase and Vintage Woods which offer single-family homes on tree-lined streets from the low $100s. Rental homes can be found in the area for monthly rates of around $1000 to

Bridgeland, a premier master-planned community, is made up of four distinct villages; each will offer residents easy access to parks and trails, playgrounds, pool complexes, schools, shopping, places of work and places of worship. Price points begin in the $220s and exceeds $1 million.

Rock Creek is a touch of the hill country at the big city’s doorstep. It is an upscale development designed for quality living and featuring exciting amenities, like five connected lakes, streams and extensive jogging paths. The main lake is stocked with fish and ready for boats. Prices begin in the $400s.

$2000. Attractive new apartments with stateof-the-art amenities are available throughout the Cy-Fair area. Monthly rental

rates

range from $850 to $3500.

The City of Jersey Village is a home-rule City, operating under a Council-Manager

Located around Houston’s largest private recreational lake, Towne Lake is at the heart of Cypress-Fairbanks. On the water, residents can water ski, sail or fish; beside the water, they can stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy a meal, or relax with neighbors.

form of government. Situated at the cross roads of US 290 and Highway 6, careful and

KLEIN AREA

deliberate planning has made this one of the

In between Houston and Tomball lies Klein, an unincorporated community which has thrived since the mid 1800s when German immigrants made it their home. You can still hear the influence of these early settlers in the street names like Kaiserhoff, Kuykendahl, and Wunderlich.

In 1938, the Klein Independent School District was established and it is still

area’s premier communities.

Featuring new homes by some of Houston’s finest builders, Cypress Creek Lakes is only 24-miles from downtown and is built around an outstanding complex of schools served by the award-winning Cypress Fairbanks independent School District.

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flourishing today, emphasizing community

by adding golf courses, tennis courts,

communities, especially those that can

and progress, and offering excellent educa-

country clubs and other upscale amenities.

accommodate horses.

Texas Historical Foundation was estab-

A manmade lake that opened in 1973, Lake Conroe is fairly built out in terms of

MONTGOMERY

lished to preserve the community’s heritage.

Unincorporated designations often trans-

development along its shoreline, but its

late to lower taxes and fewer municipal

communities are still highly sought after

regulations, and housing options are many

for permanent and vacation homes. Public

and varied, with a range of traditional resi-

access and public boat launching is available

tion to students K-12. 1n 1988, the Klein One of the oldest towns in the state, Montgomery is the birthplace of the Lone Star flag of Texas. It began as a trading post in 1826, and while the city itself hasn’t grown much, the area is still popular with

dences, new developments and multi-family

newcomers.

from several parks, including Lake Conroe

housing complexes.

Park, Scott’s Ridge Swim Area and the vast This 22,000-acre lake is one of the natural

outside

Montgomery,

new and established communities, drawn

Sam Houston National Forest.

LAKE CONROE

Just

tens of thousands of homeowners reside in by the area’s natural beauty, proximity to commerce, and enduring small-town charm.

crown jewels of Montgomery County, along

MAGNOLIA

with its pristine national and state forests.

Adjacent to The Woodlands, Magnolia

One of the area’s newest and most innova-

The 157 miles of shoreline surrounding this

was settled in the late 1840s and today

tive communities is Woodforest, a 3,000-acre

scenic lake are ringed by some of the area’s

calls itself “the community of unity.” It

development that ranks among the top 20

most beautiful communities, including April

has been awarded Recognized Scenic City

communities in the U.S. for new-home sales.

Sound, Bentwater and Walden on Lake

Certification by Scenic Texas. Magnolia

Nestled in a heavily wooded environment

Conroe. Many of these communities have

retains its small-town charm even as it

between The Woodlands and Lake Conroe,

enhanced their gorgeous natural back- drop

becomes a popular location for large-lot

Woodforest has a 27-hole championship

COST OF LIVING When it comes to overall cost of living, Houston is still an affordable place to live and work. Here’s how the Houston area ranked in a comparison to other major U.S. cities (2019 1st Quarter) CITY

COMPOSITE 100%

GROCERY 13.40%

HOUSING 29.34%

UTILITIES 8.94%

Atlanta

102.3

101.8

104.2

85.7

100.6

107

105.1

Austin

99.5

89.7

103.1

95.6

91.2

106.2

102.6

Boston

153.5

110.5

227.2

119.6

121.4

117

129.6

Chicago

120

96.8

150.9

93.6

128

100.9

109.8

Cleveland

95.7

106.4

81.7

96.9

92.3

104.2

103

Dallas/Fort Worth

106.7

101.9

112.8

107.9

93.5

105.2

106.7

Denver

111.1

98.6

137

83.6

102

102.6

104.5

Houston

95.4

87.1

90.7

107.3

96.3

92.3

99.6

NYC (Manhattan)

238.4

139.7

487.6

123

142.2

111.9

136.9

Phoenix

97.4

97

96

109.2

113.2

92.9

92

Pittsburgh

102.2

111.3

103.9

110.4

111.4

98.8

93.2

Raleigh

94.5

90.8

85

96.3

97.7

101.3

101.7

San Francisco

200.1

135.6

359.4

122.2

150

130.5

132.4

Seattle

159.4

128.6

225.7

107.9

143.6

130

136.4

Tuscon

96.7

98.8

87

98.6

109.9

99.3

99.8

TRANSPORTATION

9.22%

HEALTHCARE 4.26%

MISC. 34.84%

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HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

Woodlands, Conroe and Houston, residents of Oak Ridge North can easily take advantage of the entertainment, shopping, colleges and universities, and other offerings in the surrounding cities.

SHENANDOAH Shenandoah is a small city of about 2,200 that connects The Woodlands to Conroe along I-45 North. The west side of the city is almost entirely residential while commercial and retail property is zoned to the east side of I-45. The Conroe Independent School District sports complex is there and hosts events year-round.

Miramesa Community; Photo Courtesy of of Land Tejas

golf course, parks, playgrounds, a splash park, and miles of hike-and-bike trails.

Unique amenities include Forest Island, a 16-acre tennis and aquatics center, and Admiral Bark Park, named after the community’s first resident canine. Nestled beneath a canopy of oak trees, Lily Pad Park is an awesome water park for the entire family.

Overall,

Woodforest

devotes

700

acres to recreation and natural open space.

Homesites

include

golf

course

and

lake frontage, and are as large as one acre.

Woodforest also includes a 90-acre retail and mixed-use area, so residents will be able to shop and work where they live and play.

OAK RIDGE NORTH Oak Ridge North is situated just north of Spring and south of Conroe along I-45, with The Woodlands and Shenandoah as close neighbors to the west. It is home to just over 3,000 residents who affectionately refer to it as “What a Hometown Should Be.” The community manages to maintain the hometown feel it was originally known for, with friendly, close-knit neighbors who can walk to schools and the two city parks.

And because of

20

its proximity to The

One of the first new developments to open in years will give newcomers an opportunity to enjoy the laidback Shenandoah lifestyle. Planned for 92 homes by Pelican Builders, Boulevard Green is located on a 12-acre site at Vision Park Boulevard and Pine Forest Drive. Hallmarks of this gated community include distinctive architecture, low-maintenance living, elegant interiors and affordability – all in a convenient location only minutes from I-45 North and all of the attractions in The Woodlands.

SPRING About 55,000 people reside in Spring, which maintains its small-town appeal while welcoming newcomers to several growing master-planned communities. Spring is known throughout Houston for its quaint, vibrant Old Town Spring shopping and entertainment district, and the Spring Creek Greenway is enhancing the area’s already considerable natural appeal.

Area schools are highly regarded, and major roadways including I-45 North, the Hardy Toll Road and Grand Parkway add to the area’s vitality. The new ExxonMobil campus is located right across I-45 from Spring, and this mega-development has had a huge and positive impact on growth in Spring.

Harmony is a popular Spring community that embraces the 12,000-acre Spring Creek Greenway as its veritable back- yard. Situated just minutes from I-45 North and the Hardy Toll Road, this wooded 1,000-acre

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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community offers unique amenities such as Barefoot Park, where residents are encouraged to kick off their shoes and enjoy the outdoors. The park has a resort-style pool with a beach-entry lagoon, a splash pad, and a community pavilion with an outdoor fireplace. Coordinated by a dedicated lifestyle director, the community presents events all years, like Pumpkin Fest and Pictures with the Easter Bunny. Harmony is planned for 2,600 homes, with a variety of award-winning homebuilders and homesites ranging from 55 to 75 feet wide.

TOMBALL Once called Peck, Tomball was renamed in 1907 in honor of its local congressman, Thomas Henry Ball, who played a major role in the development of the Port of Houston.

Today, Tomball is home to about 11,000 residents who appreciate its small- town atmosphere and proximity to The Woodlands and other fast-growing communities in the Montgomery County area.

Bounded by State Highway 249 and FM 2978 - with FM 2920 as Main Street –Tomball is ideally located just 28 miles northwest of downtown Houston. With one of the highest elevations in the region, Tomball has fertile, forested land that drew farmers and ranchers in the early 19th century. Later, railroads and then oil and gas brought more prosperity to Tomball. Today, the area is home to thriving master-planned communities.

Adjacent to The Woodlands, just off Huffsmith and Wiseman Roads, is Lakes Surrounded by wooded beauty and eight lakes, and just minutes from the Grand Parkway, The Woodlands and the new ExxonMobil campus, this master-planned community is wonderfully welcoming. Lakes of Creekside is comprised of just over 600 home sites, and has a tremendous array of amenities not usually offered in a close-knit community such as bike paths, splash pads, a pavilion and more. Lakes of Creekside is located within both the Tomball and Klein Independent School Districts.

Willowcreek Ranch, a development of Caldwell Communities, is another popular Tomball community.

This gated

community has a sparkling 50-acre lake as its centerpiece, with more amenities including an Equestrian Center, miles of hike and bike trails, and numerous parks and green spaces.

Overlooking the main lake, The Lakehouse Lodge offers residents a place to play, entertain, work out, and enjoy life, unbridled.

WILLIS When the Willis brothers donated land to the Great Northern Railroad for a track from Houston to Chicago, a town was born. The railway and fertile land to grow watermelon, cotton and other cash crops, as well as trees for a thriving timber industry allowed the community to grow. Straddling I45 and north of Conroe, today Willis is the gateway to Lake Conroe and the home of a highly rated school district.

THE WOODLANDS Opened in 1974, The Woodlands has reigned for decades as one of the top-selling master- planned communities in the U.S., widely admired for its beautifully preserved

environment and quality amenities.

In

Waterway at the heart of the commercial

recent years, The Woodlands has come into

district. The 1.4-mile long waterway links

its own as a total community where people

office buildings, shops, restaurants and

live, work and play, with the flourishing of

plaza areas, with water taxis providing

The Woodlands Town Center, the Market

transportation between these areas and

Street shopping and entertainment district

more

and other key components. The Wood-

million square-foot The Woodlands Mall

lands has also become a major employment

and Market Street. The Cynthia Woods

center, and without doubt the community’s

Mitchell Pavilion, one of

success and quality of life drew the attention

popular outdoor amphitheaters

of Exxon- Mobil, which built its new campus

world, hosts national touring shows and

just south of the 28,000-acre community.

cultural performances.

destinations

including

the

1.3

the most in the

An exceptional

collection of larger-than-life sculptures Now home to nearly 100,000 residents,

and outdoor art installations adorns

The Woodlands offers amenities including

public spaces.

190 miles of hike and bike trails, 121 parks and seven golf courses. The Wood-

Three highly rated school districts – Conroe,

lands will ultimately include 8,000 acres

Magnolia and Tomball ISD – along with

of natural undeveloped land in parks and

acclaimed private and preparatory schools

nature preserves.

give residents access to excellent choices for education. The Woodlands is also home

The Woodlands lifestyle

is

centered

to Lone

Star

College-

Montgomery,

on the environment, the arts, technology

and two renowned healthcare campuses,

and

Memorial Hermann The Woodlands and

healthy

living.

The

Woodlands

Town Center features The Woodlands

St. Luke’s. 

The Lipton Agency Get a quick, personalized insurance quote.

Larry Lipton

2611 Cypress Creek Pkwy.

Suite D-100, Houston, TX 77068

281-580-2510

LarryLipton@Allstate.com

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21

SPOTLIGHT:

INNER LOOP g n i v i L

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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With 92 consulates, a dynamic multi-lingual population, two international airports and a top ranked port, Houston attracts newcomers from around the globe who bring with them a world view of business, opportunity and life style.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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SPOTLIGHT: INNER LOOP LIVING

“We Love Houston.” The 28-foot welcoming

firms, including 40 of the nation’s 145

Due to Houston’s sheer enormity – the

sign says it all. Open and friendly Housto-

publicly traded oil and gas exploration and

8,929-square-mile metro area is larger than

nians embody a boisterous spirit of growth

production companies.

the state of New Jersey – most of its growth takes place outside of the 610 Loop, the

and optimism – a can-do attitude – and celebrate individuality and quirky creativity.

Houston, the city with no limits, is America’s most diverse city. Whatever their

Houston’s Texas Medical Center is the

innermost of the three highway rings around

largest in the

Houston. But inside 610, the living is good

world,

employing

more

than 106,000 people and welcoming 10 million patient visits each year. The Port of

and getting better.

Houston is the nation’s top seaport by many

WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT LIVING IN CENTRAL HOUSTON?

measures, and ranks as one of the busiest

Living in Central Houston means easy

ports in the world by cargo tonnage. NASA’s

access to Houston’s rich cultural scene. The

Houston’s status as the Energy Capital of

Johnson Space Center adds to Houston’s

Theatre District in Downtown Houston has

the World remains unrivaled. The city is

economic diversity, and the city has consular

the largest concentration of seats outside of

home to more than 3,700 energy related

offices from 92 countries.

New York. This 17-block district is home to

backgrounds, newcomers from around the nation and the world come to Houston in huge numbers.

nine performing arts organizations that wow audiences in venues including Jones Hall, the Hobby Center, the Wortham Theater

Considerations When Searching for a Home in Central Houston:

Center and the Alley Theater. Overall,

• While much of Houston is unzoned, check out potential restrictions such as deed restrictions and historic district status – the latter has been spreading through Central Houston. While restrictions can be very beneficial for neighborhood preservation, they might not be compatible with a buyer’s future vision for their new property.

Just southwest of downtown, in the pedes-

• It’s relatively quick and easy to check the reputation of volume builders in large suburban communities, but inner city builders and renovators may be very small or even brand-new. Real estate agents and previous buyers can be good sources to check with.

radius of the iconic Mecom Fountain, are

• If schools are a consideration, keep in mind that the reputations of inner city schools can vary widely from campus to campus, even within a small geographic area. Urban districts such as HISD have many outstanding magnet and neighborhood schools, however, attendance boundaries are not often flexible.

museums such as the Houston Center for

• When moving into a transitional neighborhood, keep in mind that problems such as crime, litter and rundown or abandoned properties may still take several more years to turn around. Redevelopment, while sometimes fast, can also progress very slowly.

• If it’s important to you, consider that large tracts of open or industrial land, especially if they border a major street, can be redeveloped as multifamily residential, commercial or other.

• If a home or neighborhood is located near a major freeway, keep in mind that urban freeways are always candidates for expansion. Do your research on projects that have been announced or talked about. The expansion of I-45 North and the proposed Houston-Dallas high-speed rail line may impact a number of Central Houston neighborhoods.

• A s with high-rise and mid-rise living anywhere, keep in mind that a great view is never guaranteed to last forever, unless your building looks onto a park or other green space.

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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Houston has more than 500 arts organizations – most of them in Central Houston.

trian-friendly Museum District, more than 8.7 million visitors explore the 19 museums that make up the tree-lined, culture-filled neighborhood each year. Within a 1.5-mile such famous institutions as the Museum of Fine Arts-Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and more more specialized Contemporary Craft, the Holocaust Museum, and the Asia Society Texas Center.

For sports fans, all of Houston’s professional teams are rooted in the central city. The Astros baseball team play downtown at Minute Maid Park, built around the historic Union Station railroad depot. Also, downtown, the Rockets play basketball at Toyota Center, next to the incredibly popular Discovery Green, which has quickly become Houston’s own people-filled version of Central Park. On the exciting east side of Downtown, BBVA Compass Stadium is home to the Houston Dynamo soccer team. Reliant Stadium, home to the Houston Texans football team, is just inside the 610 Loop.

Downtown Houston is fast transforming itself

into a 24/7 place where people

live, work and play. More than a dozen

At Westheimer and Kirby, West Ave is an

Central Houston residents

new residential towers are sprouting up all

example of several large mixed-use develop-

a growing number of options for getting

over downtown, and a host of new hotels

ments coming onboard in Central Houston.

around without cars. A decade ago, Hous-

opened in time to welcome fans to Houston

West Ave has shopping and dining on its

ton’s first light rail line opened along Main

for Superbowl LI. The largest of these, the

lower floors, including big draws like Toot-

Street, taking riders through Down- town,

1,000-room Marriott Marquis, is one of

sies for fashion, and restaurants including

Midtown, the Museum District, the Medical

many new towers ringing Discovery Green

Pondi- cherry and Eddie V’s. On top of it all

Center and to NRG Stadium. Known as the

and it features a Texas-shaped lazy river.

are 400 apartments.

Red Line, this popular rail line also created a

For Downtown entertainment, Green Street

Another new mixed-use complex, the River

Houston is home to the House of Blues,

especially in Midtown, which has boomed

Oaks District, has opened on the site of

with new midrise residential buildings,

a former car lot on Westheimer, between

townhomes eateries and arts centers.

the Lucky Strike bowling alley, a growing array of stores and restaurants, and new luxury hotel Hotel Alessandra. Bayou Place,

are

enjoying

catalyst for new development along the way,

The Galleria and Highland Village. The vision is to offer an urban experience with

Bike trails are an increasingly popular way to

high-end retail, street-side cafes, office space,

get around in Houston. The frequently used

a cinema and 279 residential units. Just

Heights trail opened a few years ago, and a

inside the Beltway at I-10 West, City Centre

new Downtown connection links it to East

is another growing concentration of retail,

End trails. The trail has also been expanded

It‘s well known that Houstonians eat out

office, residential and entertainment with a

to the west, connecting it to Timbergrove

more than residents of any other city,

walkable urban feel.

and other hot neighborhoods along White

Houston’s original downtown entertainment complex - offers movies at Sundance Cinemas, concerts at Bayou Music Center, and a variety of restaurants.

and with 11,000 eateries to choose from, who could blame them? Central Houston

Oak Bayou.

As Central Houston continues to improve, Houston

Houston has plenty of parks off the bayous.

has more than 40 colleges, universities and

Hermann Park, between Downtown and

other institutions of higher learning. Rice

the Medical Center is home to the Houston

University is consistently hailed as one of

Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theater and Japa-

belly in Montrose. In a city where more

the nation’s finest, and the University of

nese Gardens, which recently

than 90 languages are spoken, great ethnic

Houston has earned Tier One status, placing

its 100th birthday with new public art and

food is everywhere, from the many Viet-

it in

the same league as the University

the McGovern Centennial Gardens. A new

namese restaurants along Milam Street in

of Texas and Texas A&M University for

master plan is also underway to renovate

Midtown, to the original Ninfa’s Mexican

advanced research.

and improve Memorial Park. 

is home to many of the nation’s most acclaimed

new

restaurants,

including

Oxheart in the Warehouse District, Reef in Midtown, and Hugo’s, Uchi and Under-

so does its offering of schools.

celebrated

restaurant on the recently-beautified Navigation Boulevard.

Central Houston is a shopper’s paradise that includes funky fashion boutiques in Montrose, antiques stores in the Heights, and a large cluster of art galleries and home decor stores along Kirby and Richmond.

Westheimer is the undisputed champion of Houston’s shopping streets, crowned by The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping center with 400 fine stores and restaurants, and over 30 million shoppers every year. Located right outside the 610 Loop, The Galleria has everything from Neiman-Marcus,

Gucci

and Saks Fifth Avenue for uber-luxury, to Macy’s for moderately priced fashion. Just inside the Loop on Westheimer, Highland Village has everything from Pottery Barn to Williams-Sonoma.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

25

In this section Home Ownership Choosing a Realtor Rent or Buy Mortgage Options Credit Reports

26

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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The

HOME FRONT The rapid growth of the Northwest Houston and Montgomery County area means newcomers can find everything they need for a smooth move – from abundant temporary housing choices, to skilled Realtors and custom builders who are eager to help.

TEMPORARY LODGING

Consider the location and style of housing

RENT OR BUY?

Sometimes, newcomers need temporary

that would best suit you during your tempo-

There can be advantages to both renting or

housing while they continue their home

rary stay. Is proximity to work the top

buying a new home, depending on one’s imme-

search, or while they wait for their new home

consideration during this hectic period? Or

diate priorities and long-term goals. According

to be built or renovated. Like most big cities,

it might be most important to stay near an

to Freddie Mac, renting can make more sense if

Houston has many options for temporary

airport if you’ll be doing a lot of traveling

you have a career or life- style that requires you

housing, but perhaps it’s even

during the transition. Would you be most

to move frequently, if one prefers a set monthly

comfortable in a hotel or apartment, or

budget and cannot afford unforeseen main-

would you prefer a single-family

tenance expenses, or if they don’t have the

because

companies

are

truer here,

experienced

at

serving the historically heavy influxes of newcomers who work in Houston’s thriving energy, medical and aerospace sectors.

time or desire for home maintenance.

HOME OR TOWNHOME? Good sources for locating temporary housing

More reasons to rent: if the thought of having amenities such as a pool, gym, concierge and

Many multifamily complexes have corpo-

include your company’s human resources

rate programs with fully furnished

tennis courts sound enjoyable; if the plan is

department, your Realtor and/or builder, and

to downsize living space or retire soon; and if

the Internet.

one is experiencing a financial setback and/

units

and short-term leases available. Hotels are another option, including the growing

or rebuilding their credit. Freddie Mac says

number of extended-stay hotels in the area.

Bottom line: the rapid growth of Northwest

When staying in a hotel for 30 days or

Houston and Montgomery County means

income, good credit and documentation for

longer, Texas law allows for an exemption of

that newcomers will find plenty of temporary

their assets; if they can afford at least a 5%

the 6% state hotel tax; see the hotel manage-

housing options throughout the area – from

down payment and closing costs; and if they

ment for information on how to apply for

extended-stay hotels and corporate lodging,

are financially able to take on home mainte-

this exemption.

to single-family homes and condos for rent.

nance and improvements.

buying may be best if someone has reliable

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

27

Choosing a Realtor

It may also be better to buy if you want to

The right realtor can save you thousands.

breaks and credits; if you have an adequate

build equity and qualify for homeowner tax cash reserve to withstand loss of employment

Buying or selling a house involves real estate law, title insurance policies, home warranties, home-lending practices, appraisals, inspections, hazard insurance, surveys and other issues; the services of a realtor are highly recommended. Especially for people new to the area, a realtor can save time and money and provide local knowledge. A realtor can swiftly locate homes that fit with your lifestyle, price range, educational needs, and location.

or another financial setback; and if you plan on staying in your home at least four years.

NEW HOME VS. EXISTING HOME Advantages of buying a new home include “new” everything – from carpets to appliances. Energy efficiency is another big consideration. New homes can include the

How do you choose the right realtor?

First, understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® cannot discriminate against someone based on race, religion, gender, handicap, family status or national origin.

Talk to a number of realtors before making your decision, talk to some of their previous clients and review their current and recent listings. You might want to ask the following:

latest high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, along with advanced insulation and window products that weren’t available 10 or 20 years ago.

A new home will require less maintenance in the short term, and new homes are wired and capable of accommodating the latest technologies.

There are also advantages to buying an existing home, especially in Northwest Houston and Montgomery County, which

• How long have you worked in real estate?

• Is real estate your full-time job?

• Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers?

old. Existing homes might be less expen-

• Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood?

sive, have established landscaping, or other

• What is the average price of properties that you close?

• How many closings do you have each year?

traditional floor plans.

• Do you work on a team?

Used homes may also have a track record of

• D o you have any designations, cer tifications, awards or special training?

offers plenty of resale homes ranging from historic farmhouses to homes just a few years

SPECIALTY CERTIFICATIONS Realtors with the CBR (Certified Buyer Representative) are exclusively committed to providing excellent buyer representation and know current real-estate practices. Realtors can also be certified as Texas Affordable Housing Specialists, which recognizes training in green technologies that can make a home more affordable.

Realtors certified by Earth Advantage are trained to spot and understand the advantages of green construction. An EcoBroker designation means a realtor has extensive training in conservation and green energy.

Your realtor should be someone who is an expert on the area and the industry. But she should also be easy to work with and willing to listen – the process should be enjoyable as well as productive.

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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“extra” features, such as window coverings, that may not be included in new homes, and

appreciation over the years, although Realtor. com cautions that past performance does not guarantee future market appeal.

CUSTOM HOME BUILDING One of the great things about Northwest Houston or the Montgomery County area is the diversity of communities and homesites to choose from for building the custom home of your dreams. The

choices are almost

endless. Anyone can find an acreage homesite in a community that still feels rural and pastoral, or they can tap into the increasingly urban vibe of places like The Woodlands Town Center and build a townhome that might look a home in New Orleans or Charleston. Homesite can be found with

views of the area’s many golf courses, lakes

get a mortgage with only 3 percent down

considerations for unique circumstances in

and parks. And almost everywhere, home

payment and a minimum FICO credit score

The Northwest Houston and Montgomery

buyers will find the beautiful trees the area is

of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are

County markets.

known for.

also offered by various government agencies.

Some groups, including teachers, police offi-

Also in Northwest Houston and Mont-

cers and firefighters, may also qualify for

gomery County, relocation candidates will

special assistance programs.

find a wide selection of homebuilders and

OBTAINING A HOME MORTGAGE More good news comes in the form of relaxed

Realtors who are extremely knowledgeable

The following pages cover the basics of

lending standards that could benefit first-time

and experienced in building custom homes in

financing a home, along with some special

buyers. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the

the region.

The benefits of building a custom home are getting exactly is what is wanted – from the location of the lot, to the design of the

Call (281) 376-9900

exterior style and interior floor plan. Many buyers have extended

multi-generational

families or adult children living at home, and garage apartments and ground floor “casitas” (small houses) are popular options for accommodating these family members.

Inside, too, a custom home allows for a personalization of every aspect of every room – from countertops and flooring, to paint colors and lighting and plumbing fixtures. And if there is desire to create a special place to incorporate an architectural element that’s a family treasure or recent discovery, that’s very easy to do when building custom.

MANAGEABLE, AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLE Although home prices have risen in Houston, it still ranks as one of the most affordable big cities in the U.S. for home- ownership.

Despite a flattening economy, Houston home sales stayed stable in 2018 and even gained momentum toward the end of the year, ultimately closing more than 82,000 home sales over the year – which was up 20 percent from the prior year.

Are you moving to Houston?

Over 90 top agents ready to help you find your next home!

OUR SERVICES: RESIDENTIAL SALES, PURCHASES, AND LEASING RELOCATION PROPERT MANAGEMENT COMMERCIAL Each office is independently owned and operated.

More good news comes in the form of relaxed lending standards that could benefit first-time home buyers. A few years ago,

FOR MORE INFO CONTACT US: (800) 621-7253 | (281) 376-9900

10130 Louetta Road Suite J Houston, TX 77070

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered mortgage corporations, relaxed lending guidelines that were tightened after the national housing crisis that began in 2008.

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29

NORTHWEST HOUSTON HOME FRONT

“

The Alternative Mortgage Instrument (AMI)

The Greater Houston Builders Association works to ‘provide advocacy, education and meaningful services to benefit its members and the housing industry.’

is a loan in which at least one of the four components varies. The most common AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins low and periodically

”

adjusts either up or down

within

limits

based on a pre-specified

index.

The

initial

low

rate, and therefore, the lower

monthly payment, enables the buyer to meet the income and debt-ratio requirement.

two federally chartered mortgage corpora-

ratio of median household income required

tions, recently relaxed lending guidelines that

to buy a median-priced home, using a 30-year

DOWN PAYMENT

were tightened after the national housing

mort- gage with a 20 percent down payment

The down payment is the cash committed

crisis that began in 2008. Now, some buyers

as its model. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that

toward the purchase of a home. For most

can get a mortgage with only 3 percent down

the median

just

loans, a down payment of 20 percent of the

payment and a minimum FICO credit score

enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the

of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are

purchase price is required to avoid paying

median-priced home. The Northern region

also offered by various government agen-

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), although

of Houston’s most recent THAI was an

cies. Some groups, including teachers, police

it is possible to take out a secondary loan to

impressive 1.96, which makes the area more

officers and firefighters, may also qualify for

avoid PMI.

affordable than the overall Houston region,

special assistance programs.

state and nation based on THAI averages.

HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?

MORTGAGE OPTIONS

Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to home ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that Houston area residents spend typically about 30 percent of their incomes on housing, so the city overall is right in line with that advice, albeit slightly on the high side.

Experts also suggest that household expenses not exceed 43 percent of personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insur-

household

income

is

INTEREST RATES Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year

Several different types of mortgages are

fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different

common today. A standard 30-year fixed

from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate

rate mortgage is the most common way

mortgages reset according to the terms of

to

the lender.

finance

a

home;

15-year fixed rate

mortgages are another option. The 40-year mortgage has become more popular in some

CLOSING COSTS

parts of the country where home prices are

Between 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price

rising fast, but many experts agree that the

of a home, closing costs include related fees

tradeoff of a slightly lower monthly payment

such as costs for running credit reports, loan

for much more interest paid over the life of

origination, appraisal, survey, title insurance,

the loan does not make economic sense.

and discount points paid to lower the interest rate. Closing costs are typically paid by the

For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the

buyer at the time of closing.

mortgage, payment, the interest rate and the

ance, credit card balances, utilities, food

term of the loan are fixed and fully self-amor-

CREDIT REPORT

and health care as well as any payments on

tizing, which means at the end of the term,

Lenders will require a credit report from

outstanding loans and leases are expenses,

the principal has been repaid.

the credit bureau that has collected your

while household income includes salary and other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of townhomes, condos and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be

The purchase price less the down payment is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing the principal by the number of payments in a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding

credit history for the past seven to 10 years.

Credit reports document your financial history and reflect the amount of credit you have, the timeliness with which you pay your bills, if you have declared bank-

considered in the overall expenses.

the interest determines the monthly house

Developed by the Real Estate Center at

ance is added to the payments according to

Texas A&M University, the Texas Housing

the terms of the lender, and the amounts are

Traditional mortgage lenders require an

Affordability Index (THAI) measures the

recalculated annually.

established credit history, but some lenders

30

payment. Escrow money for taxes and insur-

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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2020

ruptcy and other factors that give the lender a financial snapshot.

may offer more flexible mortgage programs

rates. Historically, credit unions have been

that may be needed. In the Houston and

for people with limited or no established

employer-based financial institutions but

Montgomery County areas, flood insurance

credit record.

today it is common for credit unions to be

is required or recommended by mortgage

community-based, meaning that anyone can

companies in some neighborhoods. Check

use a credit union as their primary financial

with your builder, Realtor or lender to deter-

institution. Members are insured for up to

mine the status of your property. Visit www.

$250,000 per account by the National Credit

tdi.texas.gov for more information.

outstanding debt, length of credit history,

Union

new credit and the sources of credit in use. In

FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS

tion about credit unions is available from the

addition to informing lenders of credit-wor-

A variety of programs are designed to help

Texas Credit Union League and the Credit

thiness, your credit score can also determine

first-time buyers, including FHA loans with

Union National Association.

a 3 percent down payment discussed at the

Credit reports also carry your credit score, a numeric ranking between 300 and 850 that many lenders use. It is calculated using five factors: payment history, amount of

Administration.

More informa-

the interest rate you pay. The better the credit

beginning of this article.

score, the lower the interest rate. More infor-

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE

mation on credit scoring is at myfico.com.

Homeowner insurance is required by mort-

Montgomery County, Harris County and

gage lenders, and is essential even if a home

other governmental entities also offer home-

is paid for. Buyers are typically asked to

buyer assistance programs that can provide

pay one year of insurance at closing, with

down

premiums included in monthly mortgage

financing for buyers who meet certain house-

payments. Selecting an insurance company

hold income and purchase price criteria.

and deter- mining coverage is the respon-

Other programs include Southeast Texas

sibility of the buyer, and should begin as

Housing Finance - www.sethfc.com, and

soon as the contract to purchase a house is

the Harris County Downpayment Assis-

accepted by the seller.

tance Program – csd.harriscountytx.gov.

PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is beneficial because it gives sellers a level of assurance that the prospective buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big plus in a competitive market. Pre-approval requires the completion of a loan application and sometimes a fee. Pre-qualification, on the other

payment

assistance

and

special

Information is also available from the Texas

hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a

The Texas Board of Insurance is a valuable

Department of Housing & Community

prospective buyer might qualify for.

source of information. Many companies

Affairs - www.tdhca.state.tx.us. Realtors,

offer discounts when home insurance is

mortgage lenders and builders are also good

combined with auto coverage, life insurance,

sources of information about available home-

health insurance and other types of insurance

buyer assistance programs. 

TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. For more information, visit irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.

BANKS Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competitive rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services, different

accounts,

minimum

balance

requirements, ATM charges, availability of funds policy, direct deposit and other options.

Contact the Texas Department of Banking at www.dob.texas.gov.

CREDIT UNIONS Credit unions are a good source to check for mortgage loans because they may offer lower

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

31

Photo Courtesy of Cypress Christian School

In this section STAAR public schools private schools higher education

32

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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EDUCATION IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON Home to some of the largest and most highly rated public school districts in Texas and the U.S., Northwest Houston and Montgomery County offer its residents an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities. Higher education is another strength.

Along with beautiful lakes, forests and a

grades 3-8; writing at grades 4 and 7; science

STEM occupation paid about $80,000 annu-

thriving economy, Montgomery County

at grades 5 and 8; social studies at grade 8;

ally; roughly 1.7 times the average yearly

offers excellent educational opportuni-

and end-of-course assessments for English

U.S. wage.

ties. There is a variety of highly regarded

1, English 11, Algebra 1, biology, and U.S.

public school districts, ranging from small-

history.

The Texas science, technology, neering

town gems to some of the largest in the

and

mathematics

engi-

(T-STEM)

Houston area. The region also has a wide

For more information and

complete

initiative provides a foundational approach

range of private and parochial

schools,

district and individual school information,

to empower teachers, inspire students and

along with a growing list of opportunities

visit the Texas Education Association at

advance STEM education. There are 70

for higher Education.

www.tea.texas.gov

T-STEM Academies and seven blended Early College High School/T-STEM Acad-

STUDENT ASSESSMENT TESTING: STAAR The

State

of

Texas

Assessments

STEM EDUCATION

emies serving more than 40,000 students

STEM, an acronym for science, technology,

across the state.

of

engineering and math education, is an interdis-

Academic Readiness (STAAR) measures

ciplinary and applied approach that is coupled

TEXAS CHARTER SCHOOLS

a child’s performance, as well as academic

with hands-on, problem-based learning.

Charter schools were authorized by the Texas Legislature in 1995 to provide an

growth, college and career readiness. Results from STAAR calculate annual school and

According to a recent poll of U.S. CEOs,

alternative to traditional public schools.

district performance ratings. Annual Assess-

employers will need 1.6 million new STEM

Open-enrollment charter schools are public

ments cover: reading and mathematics,

employees by the end of 2019. The average

schools that have the flexibility to adapt to

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

33

NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION

the educational needs of individual students.

Charter schools provide a personalized learning environment that promotes greater student achievement.

In the State of Texas, charter schools operate under and receive academic accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency.

All charter students in Texas take the same STAAR test as traditional public school students. Charter schools receive state funds based on the average daily attendance of students (same as traditional public schools); however, they do not receive funds from local tax revenue.

Photo Courtesy of Cypress Christian School

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Conroe ISD www.conroeisd.net • 936-709-7752 Conroe ISD is a 348-square mile school district that is geographically diverse and includes The Woodlands, Shenandoah, Oak Ridge North, Conroe, and Caney Creek, as

well as several other smaller towns, communities, and unincorporated areas. As the 11th largest district in Texas and the 65st largest in the U.S., Conroe ISD serves over 63,000 students across 63 campuses and is one of the fastest growing districts in the State.

Conroe ISD is a community of individuals working together to achieve the best for students. The District is proud of the accomplishments of students, teachers and administrators who have helped make Conroe ISD a great school

WE’RE ALL ABOUT ALL STUDENTS. From academics and hands-on learning experiences to renowned athletic programs, every child in CFISD is empowered to expand their horizons, encouraged to explore new interests, and provided a wealth of opportunities FULL COLOR to CONDENSED - CMYK helpSTACKED themWIDEmaximize their true potential.

Learn more at CFISDspirit.com.

OPPORTUNITY

FOR ALL CFISD-074 NW Newcomers Guide Half Page Ad 7.875x4.75_MECH.indd 1

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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2020

district. Achievement scores continue to increase and are well above the State and national averages.

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD www.cfisd.net • 281-897-4000 Twenty miles northwest of downtown Houston, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is one of the fastest-growing school districts in the nation, with a student enrollment of over 117,000. It is the second-largest district in the Houston area, the thirdlargest in the state, and is the only district in the state to rank among the top 3 by the ERG (Education Resource Group) as the most effective and efficient district in Texas for each of the last six years.

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is a destination district for its college/career preparation, extracurricular prowess and award-winning programs. With a diverse student population (students speak more than 100 languages or dialects), it is proof of the visionary work of educators, businesses, organizations and taxpayers who believe in making life better for the next generation: Cypress-Fairbanks ISD offers an unparalleled universal public education experience for all children.

The district has at least 27,000 full-time employees, educates more than 209,000 students in 280 schools spread out over 334 square miles. Houston Independent School District’s property tax rate is the lowest in Harris County and the second lowest among the state’s 12 largest school districts, but 96% of rated Houston Independent School District schools met state student progress standards, and Houston Independent School District has reduced students’ drop-out rate by 43% in the last 8 years.

Klein Independent School District

Houston Independent School District stands out as a district of choice with a robust portfolio of schools, including strong neighborhood campuses, magnet and vanguard schools, charter schools, fine arts and language programs, early college high schools and career academies, and other specialized programs. The district has placed an emphasis on ensuring all students have access to a global education and are prepared to compete and be successful in a global society upon graduation.

The first strategic priority is Reimagine

www.kleinisd.net • 832-249-4000 At Klein Independent School District (Klein ISD), every student enters with a promise and exits with a purpose. Klein ISD achieves this vision by centering on the

following five targets: pathways,

challenge, equity, leadership, and continuous improvement. As Promise2Purpose investors, district staff focus resources and relationships on three strategic priorities.

Learning. This priority is defined as personalized learning, a flexible and challenging curriculum, as well as standardized evaluation. Cultivate Talent is our second priority and is achieved through a best-inclass leadership pipeline, feedback loops and self-reflection, as well as targeted professional

learning.

The

final

stra-

tegic priority is Build Community. They achieve this via relationships, mentoring and partnerships, engaging, educating and

A fiscal leader in Texas, the district is one of only three to earn a five-star rating from Texas Smart Schools for all nine years of the program. The professionals at Cypress-Fairbanks ISD work to maximize every student’s potential through rigorous and relevant learning experiences preparing students to be 21st Century global leaders.

The Cypress-Fairbanks ISD vision is LEAD: Learn. Empower. Achieve. Dream.

Houston Independent School District www.houstonisd.org • 713-556-6000 The Houston Independent School District is the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh largest in the United States.

Houston Independent School District is focused on providing safe, secure schools where students can excel and prepare for college and careers.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION

Photo Courtesy of Tomball ISD

equipping families, and through cultural

programs, active volunteer programs, and

responsiveness.

emphasis on student safety.

Ensuring that every student has a clear

Magnolia ISD

pathway to success allows the district to

www.magnoliaisd.org • 281-356-3571

personalize learning and ensure that all graduates have a bright future ahead of

Located 45 miles north of Houston and to

them. Before graduation, Klein ISD prom-

the west of The Woodlands, the Magnolia

ises students the opportunity to explore and

Independent School District provides an

experience various pathways that include

outstanding learning environment offering

not only successful mastery of a guaranteed

innovative programs, modern facilities and

and viable curriculum, but also coursework

exceptional teachers.

and experiences that appeal to students’ unique talents, interests, and abilities.

The district serves approximately 13,200 students and provides a well-balanced

Klein ISD is comprised of six high schools,

curriculum to meet the needs of all

10 intermediate schools, 32 elementary

students

schools, one early childhood/ pre-kinder-

dual credit programs, Career and Technical

garten school, one high school of choice,

Education career paths and certifications,

and two specialized campuses. High school

Early Child- hood, and full-day Kinder-

students may also choose to attend the

garten. Magnolia ISD is the only public

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

school district in Montgomery County

Programme or the International Business

to offer the International Baccalaureate

Academy (IBA) housed on two of the high

Diploma Programme. This prestigious,

school campuses.

challenging academic program prepares

offering

advanced

academics,

junior and senior students for the rigor Considered a fast-growth district, each year

of college course work and is recognized

hundreds of new families choose to live in

by elite universities around the world

Klein because they appreciate its excep-

as an excellent preparatory curriculum.

tional staff, excellent facilities, outstanding

One of

academics, exceptional sports and fine arts

the state among comparable size districts,

36

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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the fastest growing districts

2020

in

Magnolia’s campuses include eight elementary schools, two intermediate schools, two 7th and 8th grade junior high schools, two comprehensive high schools and one alternative high school. This growth has been met with excellent facilitates and increased community support.

Students in the district are recognized for national and state accolades in academics, athletics, agriculture, health science, career and technology, fine arts programs, and the Navy Junior ROTC. District honors include National Merit Scholars and above average SAT and ACT scores.

The mission of Magnolia ISD is to provide an educational environment that will enable all students to develop essential academic skills for a lifetime of learning and to be responsible, contributing citizens in a diverse and changing world.

Montgomery ISD www.misd.org • 936-582-1333 Montgomery ISD educates over 8,997 students who live within the 231 squaremile boundary.

The district instructional

employs an outstanding staff of 617 certified

teachers. Of these educators, 61 percent of teachers also have more than 10 years of teaching experience and 142 teachers hold advanced degrees Montgomery ISD class sizes are small and average about 14.9 students for each teacher, which enables them to give their students individualized attention and in-depth instruction. Montgomery ISD maintains an environment rich in opportunities for their students to engage in and develop their passions. In addition, Montgomery High School was named one of Newsweek’s “Best High Schools in America”.

With an unyielding commitment to excellence, Montgomery ISD seeks to provide a premier academic program that recognizes the unique potential of each student and integrate the intellectual, social, cultural and physical aspects of learning. Staff and educators work to empower each student to become an eager lifelong learner committed to academic excellence, integrity, responsible citizenship and service to others.

The district tracks its students’ progress through the Texas Academic Performance Reports (TAPR). Details about the district’s involvement in these programs can be found on the Texas Education Agency’s School Performance page, www.tea.state.tx.us.

Spring ISD www.springisd.org • 281 891-6000 Spring ISD is focused on its students and grounded in its community partnerships. It serves over 35,000 pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade students in a diverse district located 20-miles north of central Houston.

Its vision states: Spring Independent School District will be a district of choice known for high-quality academics with innovative and specialized programs that meet the needs of all students in a positive learning environment.

Guided by its strategic plan, Every Child 2020, the district supports the growth and development of all students.

Every learner can succeed in Spring, with academic acceleration and enrichment available for the gifted and talented, while special education services are provided for those with disabilities. Bilingual instruction and English as a Second Language programs are also offered. A renewed focus on literacy for all and an expansion of

early childhood programs are

both part of the district’s commitment to prepare graduates who are college and career ready. In addition, student athletes from the district have made their mark at all levels of their chosen sports. Meanwhile, through district art, dance, music, theater, and speech programs, Spring ISD students have been recognized regionally and nationally for achievement in the arts.

The district’s 38 campuses include 18 schools built within the last decade, as well as numerous renovated ones, ensuring that students have secure, modern facilities in which to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens – ready

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION

to contribute, compete, and lead in today’s global society.

the future, Tomball ISD offers high-quality academic learning to ensure students are college and workforce ready.

academics and finances while still fostering

Educating over 18,000 students at 20 campuses that spans across 83 square miles in northwest Harris County and southwest Montgomery County, Tomball ISD is considered a fast-growth district that has maintained a standard of excellence in

Tomball ISD offers Year-Round Limited

a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Tomball ISD www.tomballisd.net • 281-357-3100 Tomball ISD is an ‘A’ district that embodies a reputation of

excellence, all while

holding true to its small-town feel. With a vision that students will lead in creating

Open Enrollment, enabling families living outside the district boundaries, a chance to attend a Tomball ISD school free of charge.

Along with offering rigorous college, career and military readiness curriculum that is responsive to the needs of individual learners, Tomball ISD boasts 25 Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathways

WHY TOMBALL?

district-wide all while enhancing its robotics and STEM programs, providing every student an opportunity to find their place.

Tomball Star Academy, the district’s early

BACK-TO-BACK

A A

2018-19 2017-18 *new A-F rating system

college high school, continues to thrive in

HIGHEST RATED SCHOOL DISTRICT

its third year offering students a rigorous, supportive learning environment and an opportunity to earn an Associates of Arts degree by the time they graduate from high school free of charge.

in NW Harris County

The district recently launched its Two-Way Dual Language Academy, a biliteracy program at Rosehill Elementary, that inte-

20

1 8,000+

TAX RATE: $1.29

CAMPUSES

STUDENT ENROLLMENT

grates native English and native Spanish speakers in one classroom setting to encourage students to become bilingual, biliterate and bicultural.

25

CTE PATHWAYS

RANKED #1

The district’s success not only stems from

FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY

the academic content offered but from the

BY TXSMARTSCHOOLS

support of its community stakeholders.

Because of the overwhelming support, the district passed Bond 2017, which addresses improvements in all areas of academic

6.4% GROWTH

success from fine arts, technology and

IN STUDENT POPULATION

athletics

to

renovations

of

existing

campuses and the construction of a new elementary school, junior high school,

REPUTATION OF EXCELLENCE

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATIONS

HIGHLY RATED

district stadium, natatorium and agricul-

OUTSTANDING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT SMALLER SCHOOL COMMUNITY ENGAGED FAMILIES A DESTINATION DISTRICT OF INNOVATION

tural science project center.

STATE-OF-THE-ART STADIUM COMING SOON

Tomball ISD makes sure every student finds a place to belong, a passion to pursue, and a love for learning that will @TOMBALLISD

www.tomballisd.net

serve them well beyond the years they spend in Tomball as it is not just a district, but a destination.

38

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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Willis ISD www.willisisd.org • 936-856-1200 Education is exciting for the more than 7,000 Willis Wildkats who attend one of

business management, health science, hospitality services and information technology.

Individual talents and valuable life skills are enriched through the athletic, fine arts and extracurricular programs.

five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Willis ISD is a growing K-12 district nestled between the

Sam

Houston National Forest and Lake Conroe.

Higher expectations for student achievement are set every year and are complimented by a comprehensive array of rigorous academic programs including Gifted and

Willis ISD honors small-town values and traditions. It is a community that pulls together for the kids and develops personal connections with them and their families.

At the same time, staff and educators are focused on preparing the students to live and work successfully in the global community of the 21st century.

Talented, Career and Technology, Advanced Placement,

and

Dual

Credit

courses.

College-ready juniors and seniors can take Lone Star College courses in their high school classrooms, with some students graduating with more than 40 hours of college credit. Through the Career and Technology program, students can get a quick start on their career by acquiring skills in a variety of areas including architecture and construction, agriculture, audio/video technology,

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Covenant Christian School www.covenantonline.com • 936-890-8080 Covenant Christian School is an interdenominational, Christ-centered, college-preparatory school situated on a 35 acre facility serving students in Pre-K through grade 12.

The school is nationally accredited by the

Photo Courtesy of Cypress Christian School

Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS). Covenant’s mission is for students to develop a sincere desire to impact the world with excellence and to glorify God in every area of life.

I Am A

Warrior Are You?

Serving grades K-12 throughout northwest Houston.

est. 1978

11123 Cypress N. Houston Road, Houston, TX 77065 | 281.469.8829 | CypressChristian.org

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

39

NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION

Photo Courtesy of Tomball ISD

Photo Courtesy of Tomball ISD

Teachers challenge students to succeed and

travels to New York performing at Carnegie

Fusion Academy, The Woodlands

stand behind them with the support needed

Hall in alternating years. In junior high,

www.fusionacademy.com • 281-419-1436

to fulfill their potential and reach their

creative drama teachers instruct students

dreams using faith-based college-prepara-

in performance and production, serving as

Fusion Academy is a fully accredited private

tory curriculum and experiential learning

a springboard for the annual Junior Class

middle school and high school where all

opportunities. Not surprisingly, Covenant

Play at the historic Crighton Theater.

classes are one –to-one: one student and one

is

known

for

teacher per classroom. This unique educa-

its consistently high

scores on standardized achievement tests.

A heartfelt and unwavering commitment to

tional model was born over 28 years ago out

More than 95 percent of graduates attend

excellence underlies all that Covenant does

of frustration with the status quo and the

colleges and universities throughout Texas

with every student. Covenant is located

passionate belief in the power of positive

and across the nation.

at 4503 I-45 North, Conroe, TX 77304.

relationships to unlock academic potential.

For more information and to schedule

Fusion’s school model isn’t solely about the

Sportsmanship and competition acquire

a tour, contact the Admissions Office at

smallest class size possible; it’s about helping

deeper meaning at Covenant. Coaches

936-890-8080.

kids flourish not only academically, but

encourage and train athletes to compete at

socially and emotionally, too.

high levels while instilling Godly character

Cypress Christian School

– on and off the field and court. Students

www.CypressChristian.org • 281-469-7745

in grades 6 thru 12 compete on a variety of

Many of their students feel like they don’t “fit” at a traditional school. That sense of

Cypress Christian School is a K-12 college

not belonging can make school an unin-

preparatory private school founded in

spiring place to be. Fusion serves kids who

1978, where students are challenged to

aren’t flourishing in a conventional envi-

develop their full potential, taught by

ronment, and offers them a community

expression

teachers committed to academic excel-

where they feel connected, supported, and

through art, music and drama. Starting in

lence and the Christian faith. CCS offers

understood. This creates a perfect solution

Pre-K, students receive instruction from art

STEM, Honors and AP courses and as

for kids who have mild learning difference,

teachers who offer children an awareness of

an AP Capstone school, provides the

ADHD, social anxiety or school avoidance;

beauty and detail found in God’s creation.

academic opportunities to ensure our

those who have a demanding extracurricular

The unparalleled music department stirs

100% college acceptance rate. CCS also

schedule; and those who are gifted and need

a lifelong appreciation for musical expres-

provides robust K-12 co-curricular offer-

more challenging material.

sion beginning with the youngest students

ings and award-winning programs in both

continuing through senior year. Cove-

athletics and fine arts including 3 state

Fusion Academy is so much more than a

nant’s championship Choral Praise Group

championships in 2018!

school. Along with being

championship teams throughout the school year allowing them to explore and develop God-given strengths and talents.

Covenant

40

inspires

artistic

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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2020

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 >

Fusion Academy The Woodland

One to One works

The value of fusion

You can't hide in a one-to-one classroom. You aren't competing with 40 other students to be heard. You aren't afraid to speak up because it's just you and the teacher. And there is no possibility of falling through the cracks.

Every student's path is different and we partner with others to help them achieve their goals, whatever they may be. Many of our students go on to attend a college or university, while some pursue a trade school, gap year, or another option.

Students and teachers spend their 50 minute class period together working through the material at a pace that works for the students. Our teachers work to first build trust with their students as a foundation for learning. We believe in the model "love, motivate, teach." Students aren't going to care about the material, if they don't feel connected with their teacher. A mentorship naturally forms, and that positive relationship drives student success.

While other schools may be cutting their art and music programs, we have a robust roster of electives for students to explore and pursue their creativity. We also have a wellness program that includes art and music, along with physical wellness and healthy habits. Students learn healthy self- expressions and how to deal effectively with stress, anxiety, low self- esteem, body image issues and social pressure.

beyond the classroom

Homework doesn't go home. Yes, you read that correctly. All students complete their homework in one of our Homework Cafe spaces on campus. Here, they have access to teacher help, and are kept accountable to finish their homework before leaving campus that day .

No more nightly homework battles!

Schedule a tour to come see customized education in action!

Call us at 281.419.1436 or visit us at fusionacademy.com

W H EN T R A DI T I ONA L SCHO OL S DO N ' T W O RK . ..

WE D O.

Fusion Academy is a fully accredited private middle and high school where positive relationships, one-to-one classrooms and customized education unlock the academic potential of every student.

fusionacademy.com Full-Time Academy

Hybrid Programs

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Class for Credit

Tutoring/ Mentoring

NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION

a full time, accredited academy, they also

through an empowering, dynamic educa-

provide class for credit, hybrid programming,

tion within a spiritual world- view. Houston

and tutoring/mentoring. They work to find the

Christian is an independent, nonprofit,

right “Fusion Fit” for every family that walks

coed day school accredited by Independent

through their door. They support students

Schools Association of the Southwest and

currently enrolled at Fusion Academy, and

serves nearly 500 students in ninth through

also support students attending local public

twelfth grades. Its method of encouraging

and private schools over the summer and

student inquiry has produced National

throughout the school year.

Merit Scholars, Fulbright Scholars, perfect

Their commitment to customized education for every student is at the core of what they do at Fusion. They offer rolling admissions to get students back in school quickly; they have extended hours to meet student scheduling needs; and they are year round, which means they can get a student back on track for the upcoming school year or fulfill a course requirement in one summer.

SAT and ACT scores, an average of $7 million per year offered in college scholarships, and graduates who attend the most esteemed universities in the country.

Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy www.legacypca.org • 936-337-2000 Founded in 2005, Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy is a private Christian school comprised of grades Pre-K through

Houston Christian High School

12th. Legacy Prep prepares students to be

www.houstonchristian.org

successful in college and life by providing a

Houston Christian High School engages

rigorous academic background that is rich

students

in opportunities.

to

become

impactful

leaders

The school strives to develop a biblical worldview combined with community service, a strong work ethic, and study habits critical to college-worthy students. The vision of

Teaching What Matters 2700 W Sam Houston Pkwy N | Houston, Texas 77043 | 713-580-6000 | www.houstonchristian.org HCHS_NW-RelocationAd-HalfPage_April17.indd 1

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Legacy Prep is to cultivate parental involvement in the educational process of their children and to come alongside parents to prepare the students to be college-worthy, character witnesses for Christ.

Legacy Prep is a University Model School certified by the National Association of University Model Schools (NAUMS), headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. The school attained NAUMS certification in July 2008 and was recertified in April of 2014. Legacy Prep is also accredited by AdvancEd/SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools). The school participates in ASCI and TAPPS. Primrose School of Barker Cypress www.primrosebarkercypress.com 281-225-0123 Primrose School of Barker Cypress is a private preschool that provides an exclusive early learning approach that balances purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers to encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion.

They believe who children become is as important as what they know. Primrose Schools is accredited by the early education division of AdvancED, a national academic accreditation agency. “How does Primrose do it?� Their research-informed approach to teaching, learning and care is unparalleled. They deliver more than a curriculum; it’s a lifechanging early learning experience for children and their families. The adventure of discovery and unparalleled learning that Primrose children experience comes from progressing through their comprehensive and connected Balanced Learning approach. “What is Balanced Learning?� Balanced Learning is Primrose’s exclusive, time-tested approach which nurtures intellectual, creative, physical and social-emotional development. It balances play and guidance to appeal to different learning styles; uses an inquiry-based early learning cycle; and enables teachers to focus on each child.

Balanced Learning is created and regularly

reviewed by early childhood experts, and is time-tested. The mission of Primrose Schools is to forge a path that leads to a brighter future for all children, and their vision is to deliver the best and most trusted early education and care for children and families across America. These are high standards, but necessary for the Primrose experience. “What is the Primrose experience?� It is the peace of mind that their people, their Balanced Learning approach, and their commitment to service excellence foster in those who interact with Primrose Schools. Stop by Primrose School of Barker Cypress for a tour so you can experience the Primrose difference for yourself.

The John Cooper School www.johncooper.org • 281-367-0900 An independent, PK-12, college preparatory school, located on 43 acres that were set aside for an independent school by Woodlands founder George Mitchell. The school opened in 1988 and has grown to become one of the premier independent schools in the Houston area.

Cooper provides a challenging education in a caring environment. Traditional educational practices combined with innovative new teaching methods enable students to become critical and creative thinkers, effective communicators, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifetime learners.

The Woodlands Prep International School woodlandsprep.org • 281-516-0600

From Curiosity to Wisdom A recognized leader in independent school education, The John Cooper School is celebrating 31 years of providing a challenging education in a caring environment.

Traditional educational practices combined with innovative programs teach students to become critical and creative thinkers, effective communicators, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifetime learners.

Join Us For An Admission Event JOHNCOOPER.ORG/ADMISSION

The Woodlands Prep is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, authorized to offer the IB programs across all grade levels for students ranging from 3 to 19 years old. Our school is widely recognized as the IB school of choice in The Woodlands and one of the leading international schools in the region.

Our 20-acre campus is located in The Woodlands, TX, which is a master planned community North of Houston, ranked in 2018 as #2 Best City to raise a family in the US and #4 Best City to live in the US (Niche).

JOHNCOOPER.ORG ONE JOHN COOPER DRIVE THE WOODLANDS, TX 77381

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON EDUCATION

At the heart of our own philosophy is the desire to provide a global learning experience that nurtures diversity and promotes a global mindset. We strive to develop students who will build a better world through intercultural understanding, respect and multilingualism.

As an international school, we have the knowledge and experience to assist families when relocating and settling into our community. We understand the specific needs of expats and local or international transfers, and our aim is to make their transitions as smooth as possible.

Our unique English as a Second Language Program remains a particular highlight of the school, as we are the only school in The Woodlands to offer the program with such a diverse community. Our language program offers three core languages: Spanish, French, and Mandarin and supports more than 14 mother tongues, while still offering English-speaking

44

students a high-level Language Arts program. Other highlights of our holistic education include our TV Studio, Green Learning Spaces, Service and Action programs, and arts, sports, tech and innovation, and other extracurricular activities.

to learn that LSC has more than 99,000 students walk through its doors each semester. LSC is today’s smart choice for students looking to earn an undergraduate degree, start a new career or update their skills.

For more information contact our Admissions Office at admissions@woodlandsprep. org. We would love for you to be part of our wonderful community.

Students choose LSC because of the extra attention they get thanks to their small class sizes, averaging only 23 students per class, the convenient campus locations that are close to home and the flexible schedules LSC offers. No matter what their goals are, Lone Star College is ready to help them realize their dreams.

HIGHER EDUCATION Lone Star College www.LoneStar.edu Houston and the Gulf Coast Region can be full of surprises. World class museums, five-star restaurants and star-studded entertainment are just some of the amenities that attract people from all over the world.

Another benefit the area enjoys is Lone Star College. Many people are surprised

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LSC is recognized as a world leader in workforce training and helps build a strong regional workforce in industries like health care, construction, accounting, energy, computer technology and transportation. LSC also helps qualified students find financial aid and grant funding options that can provide training at little or no cost.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 >

LONE STAR COLLEGE

Reinventing the community college experience

Enrolling in a community college used to mean having to settle for less, but Lone Star College is changing that perception with a forward thinking approach to higher education.

Many LSC students take advantage of the Honors College at LSC. These high achieving students get the opportunity to study abroad and take part in international programs, curriculums not commonly associated with a community college.

Many people are surprised to l e a r n t h at L SC h a s a d i ve r se group of more than 99,000 credit and non - credit students walk through its doors each semester.

LSC is today’s smart choice for s t u d e nt s l o o k i n g to e a r n a n undergraduate degree, start a new career or update their skills.

They also have access to many e x t ra c u r r i c u l a r a c t i v i t i e s a n d exciting ways to get involved with their campus and other students with a comprehensive schedule of both intramural and club sports, as well as many clubs and student organizations.

Students choose LSC because of the convenient campus locations that are close to home and the flex ible schedules L SC of fers.

Plus they enjoy small class sizes, averaging only 23 students per class which offers greater attention given to their school work.

High school students can get a jump-start on college with Dual Credit classes which allow them to earn high school and college credit simultaneously. Students save money on college tuition, complete their degrees quicker and build confidence by

LSC is recognized as a world leader in workforce training and helps build a strong regional workforce in exciting industries like health care, construction, accounting, energy, computer technology and transportation. LSC also helps qualified students find financial aid and grant funding options that can provide training at little or no cost.

easing the transition to college.

Students interested in a four-year degree make the smart choice of starting at LSC before transferring to the university of their choice, saving thousands of dollars without sacrificing quality.

the benefits, you can see why Lone Star College is changing

Student success is our top pr ior it y. LSC is a top degree producer in the nation, ranking fourth overall and sixth in conferring degrees to minority students.

Affordable, close to home, world class. When you add up all the way people think about communit y colleges. Visit LoneStar.edu to learn more about the significant role LSC plays in the community. ď Ź

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Many students interested in a four-year degree start at LSC, then transfer to the university of their choice, saving thousands

For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been a leader in IT training. With over

of dollars without sacrificing quality. LSC students can also take advantage of the Honors College at LSC for high achieving students and study abroad and international programs, programs not commonly associated with a community college.

High school students can get a jump-start on college with Dual Credit classes which allow them to earn high school and college credit simultaneously. Students save money on college tuition, complete their degrees quicker and build confidence by easing the transition to college. LSC was recently recognized as a Top 5 producer of associate degrees, ranking fourth nation- ally among all community colleges in the U.S. by Community College Week magazine.

LSC is a proud member of the community and a major contributor to the local and regional economy with an annual economic impact of nearly $3 billion.

Affordable, close to home, world class.

When you add up all the benefits, you can

100 locations worldwide, they have grown to become the largest independent training company in the industry. Their career and corporate training solutions help turn ambitious personal and business goals into results. They use varying training methods for virtually every schedule and learning style, along with vendor-approved learning tools and expert instruction. They have trained more than 30 million people to make the most of technology, and they feel like they are just getting started.

learn more about the significant role LSC plays in our community.

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Online ANYTIME,

on-site

training,

private classes and Online LIVE. Online Live removes geographical

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This

program

provides

students

all

of the benefits of being in a dynamic interactive classroom – enabling students to study from work, home or a New Horizons center.

New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based lab solutions as well, allowing students to access their labs anytime and anywhere.

Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training and certifications for top technology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being an authorized partner ensures that the students have the highest quality training materials and train on the latest products and technologies available. Courses provided fall into categories like desktop applications, technical training and professional development.

The state-of-the-art, fully-configured live

Flexible Training Approached Based on Learner Needs – They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy

that New Horizons training yields a 4:1

see why more than 99,000 students choose Lone Star College. Visit LoneStar.edu to

specific needs. Learning methods include

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lab environment provides students hands-on access

to the systems and applications

taught in the classrooms, empowering them to learn on their own schedules.

A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for training quality and customer satisfaction as reported by an independent third-party learning and quality assurance company, Knowledge Advisors. Plus, research shows benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager surveys

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in this section

Continuing Care Retirement Communities Senior Housing Options Assisted Living Communities

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ACTIVE ADULTS +senior living

The times of aging in America, they are changing – and many senior Northwest Houston and Montgomery County residents couldn’t be happier about it. Long gone are the days of mandatory retirement at age 65, and with it, the idea that one’s golden years were to be spent simply sitting quietly on the front porch in a rocking chair as they watch life go by.

More and more seniors don’t see them-

put out to pasture to watch the rest of the

selves as seniors (unless they get a discount

world go by. Today’s seniors now have

if they do). Increasingly, the years after age

many options, dreams and plans, and

65 are more numerous and more active.

very often, the energy to pursue them. Of

According to the U.S. Department of

course, people with more leisure time can

Health and Human Services, Americans’ life expectancy in 2000 was 76.8 years; in 2018, it was 78.7. One of the reasons is that Americans are healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor and emergency

perfect their golf swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas, but these days, they’re also choosing to go back to school, learn a new language, run marathons, volunteer,

room less, spend fewer days in hospital

or take up a new hobby. More people are

and exercise more.

opting to burn out rather than rust out.

Turning 65 no longer means receiving

And the options for living and playing are

a watch, a party and hearty congratula-

also evolving to meet the changing demands

tions for years spent at a job, only to be

of this growing group of people.

From upscale retirement communities that offer an array of housing, activity, exercise and social options, to full-care facilities that care for people with mental and physical disabilities, and every-thing in between, there is a senior living solution to fit every desire and need.

TAKING STOCK In order to narrow your options in what could be an overwhelming list of choices and to help seniors choose the best option, put some time into the stock-taking process by taking an inventory of living expenses, health, interests and expectations. Budget Inventory: what does it cost

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ACTIVE ADULTS & SENIOR LIVING

convert a portion of the equity in the home into cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD offers this federally insured private loan which can give people greater financial security to supplement social security, meet unexpected medical expenses, make home improvements and more. And, unlike a traditional home equity loan or second mortgage, seniors usually do not have to repay the loan until they no longer use the home as their principal residence, sell it, or pass away. The money from a reverse loan may be paid out in a variety of ways: a lump sum, a regular monthly cash advance, as a credit line account, or any combination of the above. To qualify, people must be at least 62, and own the home outright or carry a mortgage small enough to be paid off by the proceeds; there are no income or credit qualifications or monthly payments, but homeowners are responsible to pay the annual taxes, property insurance and maintenance of the home. to live every month? What will be spent on housing or rental; how much does it cost to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a mortgage on it? What other expenses may there be? Food, entertainment, transportation? What medical expenses should be put into consideration? Being as thorough and honest in the assessment one can will help those looking for senior housing make a more informed decision later.

Lifestyle inventory: How does one want to live? Need more time for golf ? If so, choosing a golf course to live on might be the right fit. How about volunteering?

Deciding to move closer to the city, school or community center may be best. Want to make new friends? Many senior’s communities are set up to allow residents to do just that. Again, the more careful seniors are in their analysis, the more prepared they will be to make the right decisions.

STAY PUT Seniors can retire in their own home by with- drawing some of the equity they have built up with a reverse mortgage, which is a special type of home loan that lets you

50

The best way to determine if a reverse mortgage is the best fit for your retirement plan is to honestly assess the following: • H ow much would the home sell for on today’s market?

seniors choose a new home, once again, take stock. Be realistic about the situation, the expectations, the finances and health. It’s as important to consider access to medical doctors and facilities as it is to think about fun and leisure pursuits. Make sure the new community is one that will be enjoyable, that it has convenient amenities and access to services, and that a new house will be a good investment.

ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES Healthy, independent seniors may find that they simply want to live in a community where they can enjoy the company of others and their own personal interests. Moving to an active independent living retirement community might be the best fit for the budget and lifestyle, where options include renting an apartment or purchasing a property.

Many active senior communities have information packets and offer tours. A personal visit will give valuable, firsthand information and an opportunity to meet current residents who can share their own experience and insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness programs, organized activities, sporting options, and social opportunities. Other day-to-day living arrangements should also

• W hat would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home?

• W ould there be any money left over from the purchase of a new home that could be safely invested?

• W hat are the options for downsizing into a less expensive home, renting an apartment, or moving into an assisted living or alternative senior housing situation?

(Visit AARP’s website and use their Reverse Mortgage Calculator: www.aarp.com).

be considered, such as shopping centers and grocery stores within easy walking distance, and

the

availability

of

transportation

services. Where is the community located in proximity to major health care providers?

What security measures are in place for residents? For ultimate peace of mind, seniors might opt to rent a home under a short-term agreement at first to make sure the community provides for their needs and lives up to your expectations.

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES

PACK IT UP

A Continuing Care Retirement Community

But maybe, it’s time for a move. Perhaps the 30-year family home is too big and they are rattling around it like a marble in a shoe box, or they are tired of the outdoor upkeep, or they want to be closer to the place or activities that they now have time for. Before

(CCRC) offers care in a residential facility

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for seniors, with a full menu of services and living situations. Residents may go from independent living, to assisted living and nursing home care, depending on their individual, changing needs and abilities.

A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or Communities) generally offers a contract that covers a continuum of care, including access to housing, services, and health care for more than one year, or the balance of one’s life. It is a wise idea to move into a CCRC sooner rather than later, as most require that new residents live independently when they first move in.

There is a range of contract options offered

by CCRCs. An extensive-care contract is the most expensive, but carries the least risk, providing unlimited long-term nursing care at little or no additional cost for as long as nursing-home services are required. A modified-care contract comes with medium financial risk, and provides long-term health or nursing services for a specified period, after which, the senior or guardian is responsible for additional costs. A fee-for-service contract offers an a-la-carte approach, requiring that residents pay separately for all health and medical services provided by the facility, as well as long-term care.

Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus monthly fees thereafter. Some require an equity agreement where seniors purchase a condominium or co-op apartment on the property instead of paying an entrance fee.

Less commonly found are CCRC contracts where residents pay monthly fees only.

Before signing a contract with a CCRC, conduct a thorough review of the facility’s

services, operations and finances, and determine if it is appropriate to your needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also a good idea to ask a family attorney or accountant to review the contract. If the contract is

SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS “The time to begin thinking about a retirement community isn’t when you have to have it,” advises Terry Martinez with Parmer Woods Retirement & Assisted Living. “Think about it when you don’t need it. There are a wide variety of alternatives available for every level of activity, health and need.

Today’s Baby Boomers who are in or approaching their retirement years are taking advantage of active retirement communities where residents are vigorous and involved.

Or, they are finding senior-care housing communities that em-ploy medically trained staff, provide housekeeping and meal preparation services, as well as transportation for shopping, medical visits, and social outing. Or, they are seeking a more physically and medically sup-portive environment.

Whatever choice is best for you, it’s out there, but should be considered without stress.

And the prices vary. “When you’re trying to stay within a particular price range, you want to match your living requirements with services offered,” says Martinez. “If you are very independent and don’t need assistance – just want a meal plan, for example – then the associated costs are much less than for someone who requires more care.” Also, Medicare generally does not pay for long-term care, only for services deemed medically necessary that are provided by a skilled facility or home health care center. Medicaid will pay for certain health services and nursing home care for older people with low incomes and limited assets.

The place you choose should facilitate life at a level of independence that is comfortable for you or for your loved one.

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ACTIVE ADULTS & SENIOR LIVING

dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities.

As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions: • Are the grounds well maintained?

• Is the staff friendly?

• Are the residents properly dressed?

• What activities are available?

ALCs that competently provide required services without forgetting about little details will give the same care and attention to residents.

NURSING CARE FACILITIES A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a state licensed, private-care facility that provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home. found agreeable, ask to spend at least one night and two days at the facility, to test drive the community and make sure it is a good fit. Some points to consider include: • Are pets allowed in your residence?

• W hat social, recreational and cultural activities are offered?

• Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it?

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES An Assisted Living Community (ALC) bridges the gap for those who need assistance with daily activities a nursing home might offer, but wish to live independently. Residents in an ALC are unable to live completely by themselves, but don’t need constant supervision.

An ALC offers its residents assistance with eating, bathing, dressing, laundry,

• Are there fitness facilities onsite?

housekeeping, and keeping track of

• Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable?

medications. They often have centers for

• W hat healthcare and personal care services are available?

the extensive medical services provided

medical care, but typically do not offer by a nursing home. An ALC is not a

• W hat preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations?

substitute for a nursing home, but rather

• I s there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided?

nursing home.

CCRCs can be anything from high-rise apartments, to cottages, townhouses or single-family homes, and are an excellent option for those who are independent and in good health, but might need some assistance with daily living needs or require skilled nursing care.

admission, detailing personal services that

52

is a stepping stone between complete independence and services provided by a

Often, an ALC will create an individualized service plan for seniors upon will be provided. This plan is then periodically reviewed and updated to ensure changing needs are met. Housing in an ALC may be studios or one-bedroom apartments with small kitchen facilities.

Typically, ALC housing units have group

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It pays to shop around when selecting an NCF. Consult with a trusted doctor or health care practitioner for recommendations of nearby facilities. Plan on visiting at least four or five area facilities, and make an appointment with the administrator or director of nursing. Check to make sure that information provided is consistent with information gathered during the facility tour. The home should have clean floors and smell fresh.

Ask to see the compliance survey report prepared by the State of Texas. It will list deficiencies found in resident care during routine inspections, and the facility’s effort to correct them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must make this and other survey compliance reports available upon request, as well as a well-lit place for review.

Another option available is to contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) at 800-4589858 or www.hhs.texas.gov. While state law prohibits agency employees from recommending one facility over another, they can answer the following

recommended

questions

about

any

facility: • Have there been any proposed license terminations in the past two years?

ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES Seniors

diagnosed

specialized care.

• How many complaints have been filed in the past year?

with

Alzheimer’s

disease or another form of dementia need While some Assisted

Living Communities offer services and separate facilities for residents with

• How many complaints in the past year have been found to be valid?

• How many deficiencies have been cited in the past two years?

early onset symptoms, because of the progressive nature of the disease, it may become necessary to transfer the resident to another facility that can give the right level of service.

• How many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years?

• When did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit?

• Has the owner of this

facility

had

Facilities specializing in the care of Alzheimer’s

and

dementia

patients

should provide a treatment plan that considers not

only

the

resident’s

medical needs, but also the needs

of

other facilities recommended for license

the entire family with social services,

termination?

professional consultations and individuquestions,

alized treatment reviews, all set within a

combined with observations and impres-

calm, soothing environment that is sensi-

sions made during facility tours and staff

tive to the needs of the patient. Please visit

interviews will allow you to select the

www.agingcare.com for additional infor-

right nursing care facility.

mation on care for the elderly. 

The

answers

to

these

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In this section

Moving Companies Forwarding Mail Utilities Public Transportation International Relocation

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RELOCATION INFORMATION

No one likes to move and it’s never without its headaches and hassles, but the more you understand the process, and your new environment, the easier the move will be and the faster you can start enjoying your new home.

MOVING COMPANIES If you are moving from out of state, it may be necessary to hire a moving company. The best time to move is the middle of the month rather than the end or during summer vacation, when moving companies are busiest. If the move is less than 250 miles away, consider making the move yourself. Compare the relative costs of moving yourself versus using the services of a moving company, and be sure to take into consideration your time and effort, as well as your physical ability.

At the other extreme, the global economy of Houston and Montgomery County draws newcomers from all over the world, and there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when moving from overseas. If your overseas move is work-related, find out how much of the expense will be covered.

As a general rule, many experts recommend scaling the move down to essential items and those with emotional value. Find out about import fees and duty costs, especially for items you may have purchased overseas.

Also consider the size of your new space: will it be larger or smaller than the home you’re leaving? If you’re a U.S. citizen who is moving back from overseas, then you might have many items in U.S. storage, so you’ll need to plan the logistics of getting these to your new home as well.

so that if an item is added or deleted, it is

TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES

The non-binding estimate, which is the

Most companies give free estimates based on distance and the weight of household contents. Some moving companies include the costs of packing materials in their bid while others break out supplies separately.

Packing services, fuel charges, wait time and temporary storage costs may vary considerably so be sure to ask about all charges.

Moving companies offer three types of estimates: the binding estimate, non-binding estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate.

only type of estimate offered in some

The binding estimate lists all items to be shipped and the required services on the estimate form, and the price quoted is the binding price. Every charge is itemized,

prepared by the mover, including orders

easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving company must also specify the length of time the price quote is in effect, which is usually 60 days. This type of estimate does not require additional payment over the amount of the estimate.

intrastate situations, is not guaranteed.

The real cost of services is determined after the truck is loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20 percent. Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both before and after furniture and household items are loaded to accurately calculate the total weight.

The estimated amount of your move should be entered on each form that is for special services and bills of lading. If the amounts are not included, do not sign or accept the document.

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RELOCATION INFORMATION

FURNITURE AND APPLIANCE RENTAL In some cases, it may be necessary to rent furniture or appliances while waiting for your old ones to be delivered, or while shopping for new items that will fit your new space perfectly.

Some companies specialize in renting furniture to newcomers and offer packages by the household, the room or by the piece. They also offer different styles, along with accessories such as artwork, lighting, rugs and indoor plants. Flexible lease terms, quick delivery and professional setup and removal are some of the services offered by rental companies. If you decide you like a particular item or items, purchase is usually available.

The third type of estimate, called the not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best.

The mover gives a binding estimate, then weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all movers if they offer this type of service.

It is important to be sure you will be at your

FORWARDING MAIL

new home on the date the moving company

To submit your change of address, go to www.usps.com.

MORE CONSIDERATIONS

Tax deductions may apply to your move so

Be aware that many moving companies fall behind schedule, so consider hiring a moving company that will guarantee a pickup and delivery date. Make sure those dates are in the contract. Pick-up and delivery dates should not be open-ended.

keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S.

Although moving companies provide liability insurance on household belongings by the pound, it is wise to purchase extra insurance that provides additional coverage, especially for those items that are more valuable.

• Select a moving company carefully and

Before the movers arrive, get prepared.

Take an inventory of your belongings and note their condition. If the moving company performs their own inventory, check it carefully against your own before signing anything. Should any of your belongings arrive with scratches, dents or other damages, photographs will help verify a claim so consider taking pictures of valuable items or making a video inventory before the movers arrive.

www.mytexasmover.com or 512-476-0107,

56

is scheduled to deliver. If no one is home to receive the delivery, your belongings will go into storage, and the moving company may

LEGAL RECORDS

require payment in cash before unloading.

Legal Records maintained by Harris County and Montgomery County include birth certificates,

death

certificates,

marriage

licenses, automobile licenses, fees and

at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov, or ask your

inspections, divorce proceedings, DBAs,

tax preparer or attorney.

taxes, and more. Contact the county of resi-

TIPS FOR HIRING A MOVING COMPANY visit www.protectyourmove.gov to confirm their license.

• The Southwest Association is another resource for information about moving

dence for specific services offered.

The Harris County Civil Court House 20l Caroline, Houston, TX, 77002 713-755-6411; www.harriscountytx.gov The Montgomery County Court House 210 W. Davis, Conroe, TX, 77301 281-689-3133; www.mctx.org

companies and they can be reached at Toll Free: 800-759-2305 • Contact the Better Business Bureau for any complaints that might be on file at www. houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500.

UTILITIES ELECTRICITY Retail Electric Providers compete to sell electricity, allowing consumers to compare

• The Interstate Commerce Commission

plans, pricing and features. The Public

offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and

Utility Commission recommends the three

Responsibilities When You Move.” You

“C’s” before selecting a provider: contact,

can also find the brochure on many

compare, and choose. Allow several days for

websites by searching for its title.

the order to process. If establishing service

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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2020

for a new home or building, a permit or

department in each city, or by a munic-

communications and entertainment system.

inspection may be required.

ipal utility district (MUD). There are

Plans from 6 Mbps up to 1 Gig, free wireless

a number of these districts throughout

router, no data cap and contract buyouts are

Select electricity, natural gas, local phone

Montgomery County and services vary

available. Consolidated also offers Digital

and long distance, cable or satellite televi-

by district. Contact your local city or

sion, and high-speed Internet services at

TV, Digital Phone and Home Security and

home owner’s association for detailed

www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.

Automation services. Learn more at www.

information.

consolidated.com or call 844.YOUR.CCI.

GAS CenterPoint Energy is the major provider

TELEPHONE, CABLE, AND INTERNET SERVICE

for natural gas in the greater Houston and

Greater Houston and Montgomery County

Montgomery County areas. As the regulated

have four area codes: 713, 281, 832, and

utility in the Houston area, CenterPoint

936. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing

Energy owns and maintains the electric

is required. The many telephone service

delivery system as well as sells natural gas.

providers to choose from also offer satel-

Visit CenterPointEnergy.com to learn more.

lite and cable television services, along

The ENERGY STAR program supports

with bundled services, special promotional

Terms and conditions apply. Services are not available in all areas.

TRASH PICKUP The Cities of Houston, Conroe, Humble, The Woodlands and Spring, along with many other municipalities, provide trash pick-up. Call the solid waste department in your jurisdiction to find out which day

rates and discounts for newcomers.

garbage and light trash are collected.

more about buying an ENERGY STAR

Consolidated Communications

Some subdivisions opt to contract with

home at www.energystar.gov.

As more of us buy items requiring Internet

local collection companies, and fees

service and create home networks, the

for these services are typically included

WATER AND SEWER

demand for faster Internet increases. Consol-

in the homeowner’s association dues.

Water, sewage and drainage services are

idated Communications can now offer you

Contact your homeowner’s association

typically provided by the public works

the speed you need to run a complete home

for information.

energy efficiency in new homes. Learn

Public Transportation PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION METRO is the primary public transportation service in the Greater Houston area. METRO has launched several initiatives in the Houston and surrounding area to make commuting around the city quick and easy for their customers. For more information, visit RideMetro.org.

• Local Bus METRO Local bus service runs mostly along city streets, making stops at every other corner along the designated route.

• METRORail The light-rail network features 23 miles of service stretching from the Texas Medical Center, Downtown, the Museum District. This efficient system even goes as far as Northline with numerous stops inbetween.

• Park & Riders METRO This service offers 27 Park & Ride facilities that are spread throughout Houston, offering direct, nonstop service to downtown, the Texas Medical Center and other major employment centers across the region.

• METROlift METROlift is the transit companies curb-to-curb shared-ride paratransit service. This services provides transportation for persons with disabilities who cannot be facilitated on the traditional METRO buses or light rail systems.

•M ETRO STAR METRO STAR STAR vanpool provides transportation directly to and from work and offers more than 700 routes in an eight-county area. Register online to find a match for your commute, or call 713-224-RIDE to help start a vanpool for your route.

+ HOV / Hot Lanes + Bike & Ride + Transit Centers

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

57

RELOCATION INFORMATION

Curbside recycling is offered in most neigh-

METRO offers curb-to-curb service for

borhoods, and drop-off recycling centers are

mobility impaired and disabled passengers.

located throughout the area.

Call 713-658-0180 or visit their website www.ridemetro.org.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION The Metropolitan Transit Authority of

OWNING A VEHICLE

Harris County, also known as METRO, is

New residents must obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of establishing residency. Texas residents moving to a new address within the state must update their license as well.

recognized as one of the best and safest bus systems in the nation offering an extensive system of bus routes and a growing network of light-rail lines. Express bus service is available to downtown Houston and other select shopping centers and business districts from the Greenspoint Transit Center, located near Interstate 45 North and Greens Road.

For

commuting

alternatives,

METRO

provides Park and Ride services from transit facilities in Spring, and at Kuykendahl and I-45 North.

The Harris County Motorist Assistance Program (MAP), sponsored in part by METRO, sends specially marked MAP vehicles to motorists who are experiencing car trouble on Houston area freeways. They are equipped to handle minor repairs and automotive emergencies.

Houston’s major highways have High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes for vehicles with two or more passengers during peak travel periods. To share a ride, contact the METRO Carpool Matching Service, 713-635-4000.

To obtain a Texas driver license, take proof of registration, proof of insurance, a Social Security card or a current W-2 form, and a valid out-of-state license to the nearest Department of Public Safety office. For license requirements including fees and locations, visit www.txdps.state.tx.us.

Vehicles may be registered for license plates at district field offices in the county of residence.

The cost is based on the model and year for cars and gross weight for trucks. Subsequent registration may be handled by mail or in person. Motor vehicle registration renewals may be purchased at various locations.

Harris County 713-224-1919 • www.hctax.net Montgomery County 936-756-0571 or 281-364-4200 www.montgomerytexas.gov Texas law requires that the driver and front seat passenger wear seat belts. Children

eight years of age or younger or less than 4 feet nine inches tall must be secured in an approved car seat. Texas also has a mandatory automobile liability insurance law, and if a driver is stopped for any reason, proof of liability insurance coverage will be necessary. The insurance required must provide: $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000 per person per accident and $25,000 property damage.

A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is available at www.txdmv. gov.

VOTING Texas voters must be 18 years old and register at least 30 days prior to an election. Those already registered to vote but who change precincts need to file an address change. For information, go to www.votetexas.gov. In Harris County, call 713-368-VOTE. In Montgomery County, call 936-756-0571 or 281-364-4200.

FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS For emergencies only: 911 For non-emergencies: 311 The Conroe Police Department and municipal police departments, the Montgomery County Sheriff, and Constables serve the region. The Houston Police Department or the Harris County Sheriff may have jurisdiction in some areas.

Active Crime Watch programs operate in numerous neighborhoods, and another very valuable program known as Crime Stoppers accepts anonymous tips and offers rewards for information leading to an arrest.

Houston Crime Stoppers 713-222-TIPS (8477) Montgomery County Crime Stoppers 1-800- 392-STOP (7867)

PETS In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing licenses and/or on a leash can be impounded.

Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Boosters are given one year after the initial vaccination, and pets will need to be vaccinated at one- to three-year intervals depending on local requirements. 

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LIVE THE GIG

Delivering 1 Gig speed to your home through fiber-to-the-home technology.

Discover new and exciting things the Internet has to offer with CCI! If your home is like most, you have multiple devices tied to one Internet connection in your home.

These devices can be TVs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, printers, home security systems or game consoles. The more devices you have connected to your Internet connection, the more overall speed you need to support them.

Consolidated Communications, Inc. (CCI) offers 1 Gig service*, which is equivalent to 1,000 Mbps, and is among the fastest connections available to residential customers across the nation. The 1 Gig service gives you the freedom to do more.

CUSTOMERS WITH A 1 GIG CONNECTION CAN EXPERIENCE: - Use multiple devices at once without sacrificing speed - S tream movies, download videos and upload photos with virtually no buffering or waiting - Experience online gaming with a fast, stable connection - R un multiple security cameras and use “smart home� technology with remote access to video, locks, lights, thermostat and other household devices -W ork from home with a reliable connection that supports VPN access and video conferencing -W ith no data caps you never have to worry about tracking your usage

*SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE IN ALL AREAS

TO FIND OUT MORE PLEASE CALL 844.YOUR.CCI OR VISIT CONSOLIDATED.COM.

ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION

INTERNATIONAL RELOCATION INFORMATION

TRANSPORTATION

MOVING TIPS What to do Social Security Number 1-800-772-1213 Information/ Application www.ssa.gov/forms Physical locations: 8989 Lakes at 610 Drive, 77054 16200 Dillard Drive, 77040 5414 Aldine Mail Road, 77039

Texas Drivers License Application & Locations: www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/movingtotexas.htm • Texas has a 90-day grace period.

• A written & driving skills test required.

• Credit cards, cash, checks, and money orders.

• Take your passport, social security number, proof of residency, lawful presence, status.

• Proof of vehicle registry.

• Completed application.

BANKING CREDIT UNIONS www.findabetterbank.com • Credit unions are owned by members. If your company has a credit union, you can easily set up an account and get a credit card.

• Social Security number, a photo ID (passport), minimum deposit required.

THINGS TO KNOW Wait 10 days after your arrival to apply for a social security number.

Takes approximately 2 weeks for the card to arrive.

No fee for the application.

Take original or certified copies of immigration documents, passport & biographical information & photo.

60

BANKS www.findabetterbank.com • A checking account can be opened individually or jointly.

• A debit card will give you immediate access online and at ATMs. • Social Security number, driver’s license, proof of residence, photo ID (passport), pay stub or utility bill and a minimum opening deposit.

• International banks in the USA include HSBC, Citigroup, Barclays, Deustche Bank and Credit Suisse. An account at one of these banks can usually be opened in the US.

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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CREDIT CARD www.creditcards.com • Request a credit card & debit card (ATM) when opening a bank account.

• You will need a residential address, phone & place of employment, credit history.

HOUSING APARTMENT www.haaonline.org • Prices for apartments are based on apartment size and number of bedrooms Rates typically include basic utilities • Rental requirements include: a credit & security check. Texas Drivers license, passport, bank statement, proof of employment, and a deposit.

• Rental applications may require your credit history, employment history, rental history and criminal history, and disclosure of legal status or proof of legal residency.

• You are responsible for your lease for the entire term of your contract.

• If you terminate your lease contract early, rent may be accelerated and additional charges can be levied against you.

• Get any changes to your lease contract or term in writing.

• Be sure to ask about pet deposits.

• Apartment locators will help you find an apartment and their services are free.

LEASING A HOME • Leasing a home is much like renting an apartment.

• You might be expected to take care of the yard on a weekly basis, maintain the property and abide by homeowner regulations.

• You will pay all the utility bills (water, power, trash pickup & cable).

• You will need a TX driver’s license, proof of employment, credit & personal references & a deposit consisting of the first & last month’s rent.

BUYING A HOME • You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.

REALTOR/HOMES FOR SALE & LEASE www.HAR.com • You can check your credit score through your bank.

• To purchase a home you will need a good credit score based on your credit history.

• Report all of your income on your tax return as mortgage loans require proof of income - typically your IRS return.

• You do not need a Realtor to purchase a home, but Realtors are trained to help you with pricing and other legal responsibilities.

• Realtors use various sources including Multiple Listing Service to find homes.

• Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.

NEW HOMES/BUILDERS/ COMMUNITIES www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com Realtors are independent and can help you locate a newly constructed home available from a variety of builders. Builder sales reps. work for the builder. If you are working with a Realtor, you should register your Realtor with the homebuilder when you arrive.

TAXES STATE OF TEXAS Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax and property tax only.

INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov • Federal income tax for most workers is filed on April 15 of each year.

• T here are numerous rules and regulations for expatriates, the following are resources to get you started. Your employer can also assist you.

EDUCATION DAY CARE: www.childcarecenter.us • Some centers only care for children until they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5.

Other schools offer Kindergarten.

• Will need your child’s birth certificate, social security number, passport, application.

• Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different times of the day. Ask for referrals.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS PK-12 Texas Education Association: tea.texas.gov • Required for children 6-18 years of age in USA. • Child’s birth certificate, passport, social security number, transcript, doctor’s statement.

• The Houston area has excellent public

HEALTHCARE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT www.healthcare.gov • If you are relocating to the United States for a job, the HR department will assist you with health insurance for your family.

• To shop and compare health insurance visit the Affordable Care Act web page.

• You will need your social security number, passport, health history, employer information, and a credit card.

schools which serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade.

• You can research individual school districts, schools, ratings and test scores at the Texas Education Association web site.

•E lementary school (grade 1 through 5 or 6), Middle school or junior high (up to grade 8 or 9), High school or senior high (up to grade 12).

COLLEGE www.petersons.com Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools

PRIVATE SCHOOLS • HoustonNewcomerGuides.com • Houstonprivateschools.com • Privateschoolreview.com • There are a variety of independent and faith-based private schools in the Houston area.

• Enrollment is most cases is based on openings in certain grades.

• Check with each school for enrollment requirements as they vary from school to school.

• International schools offer the International Baccalaureate program and might be better suited for children planning to later attend university outside the US.

RELOCATOIN IMMIGRATION VISA Most questions are answered on the United States Citizenship & Immigration web sites below. Contact your Consulate about your country’s requirements.

General How Do I Guides: • www.uscis.gov | www.uscitizenship.info

Employment Visas: • www.travel.state.gov | www.uscis.gov

Green Card: www.uscis.gov/greencard

Permanent Residents: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov

PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.state.tx.us • Dogs & cats must be vaccinated by 4 months of age followed by booster shots every couple of years.

• Pets not wearing license tags and/or leashed can be impounded.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

61

PLACES OF

WORSHIP

There are a lot of decisions to make when establishing your new life in a new city, and one of the most important might be where to worship. Your new neighbors might be a great source of information: “Have y’all found a church yet?” they’ll say and they will be happy to help with directions and introductions.

And while it’s possible to find God (or Allah or Budda) in other places, church offers a community of like-minded and similar-spirited people to build relationships with. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship can also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, even groups with common interests to join. If you’re looking to settle in and get to know new friends, a congregation might be the perfect group in which to find them.

Luckily in Houston, every spiritual need can be met. It is the most diverse city in the country and home to a variety of religious traditions – a reflection of the rich, international cultural mosaic that

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makes up the city. It is also home to what is by far the biggest church congregation in America – Lakewood Church, a nondenominational charismatic Christian megachurch, which has an average weekly attendance of more than 52,000.

But there are many options of all sizes and styles, and West Houston offers a variety of churches ranging from Non-Denominational to Methodist to Baptist. Not to be overlooked, there are also several mosques and synagogues. All places of worship should allow a haven for people to come together and connect over their common beliefs. If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should be able to easily find your spiritual home here.

*Pew Research 2015

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

HINDU

Harvest Family Church

harvestfamilychurch.tv

Hindu Temple of The Woodlands

Living Waters Assembly of God

livingwatersonline.org

ISLAM

Living Word World Outreach

livingwordwoc.org

Cypress Islamic Center

Spring First Church

springfirst.org

JEWISH

The River Assembly of God

theriverag.org

Chabad of The Woodlands

jewishwoodlands.com

Congregation Beth Shalom

cbsw.org

Congregation Jewish

cfccnet.org

Community North

cjcn.org

Jewish Community North

cjcn.org

BAPTIST Champion Forest Baptist

championforest.org

Clay Road Baptist Church

gocrbc.org

Community Baptist Church

cbcwoodlands.org

Copperfield Church

copperfieldchurch.com

Cornerstone Baptist Church

cstonebaptist.org

Crossroads Baptist Church

crbctw.org

Cypress Creek Baptist

cypresscreekbaptist.church

Fairfield Baptist Church

fairfieldbaptist.com

First Baptist Church of Tomball

fbctomball.org

First Baptist Conroe

woodlandshindutemple.org

cypressislamiccenter.org

LUTHERAN Epiphany Lutheran

elcsh.org

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

gslcthewoodlands.org

Grace Lutheran Church

graceconroe.org

Living Savior Lutheran Church

livingsaviortexas.org

fbcconroe.org

Living Word Lutheran Church

lwlc.org

First Baptist Church of Cypress

fbccypress.org

Prince of Peace Lutheran

popcopperfield.org

First Baptist Church Montgomery

fbcmontgomery.com

Resurrection Lutheran Church

churchthatcares.org

Houston Northwest Church

hnw.org

Salem Lutheran Church

salem4u.com

Jersey Village Baptist

jvbc.org

St. John Lutheran

stjohn-lutheran.net

Louetta Road Baptist

louettaroadbaptist.net

St. Paul Lutheran

saintpaulmagnolia.org

Spring Baptist Church

springbaptist.org

St. Timothy Lutheran

thirstyforjesus.org

Woodlands First Baptist Church

thewoodlandsfirst.org

Trinity Lutheran Church

TrinityKlein.org

BUDDHIST Texas Buddhist Association

METHODIST jadebuddha.org

CATHOLIC Christ The Redeemer

ctrcc.com

Prince of Peace

pophouston.org

Sacred Heart Church

shconroe.org

St. Anne Community

stanne-tomball.org

St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church

staoptw.org

St. Edward Catholic

saintedward.org

St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic

seascatholic.org

St. Matthew the Evangelist

stmatthewhou.org

CHRISTIAN Cy-Fair Christian Church

cfccnet.org

Cypress Creek Christian

cypresscreek.cc

CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ in Champions

championschurch.org

Cy-Fair Church of Christ

cyfairchurch.org

Jersey Village Church of Christ

jvcoc.org

Kleinwood Church of Christ

kleinwood.com

Magnolia Church of Christ

magnoliachurchofchrist.com

West Houston Church of Christ

westhoustonchurch.org

EPISCOPAL

Christ Church United Methodist

cc-um.org

Cornerstone United Methodist

cornerstoneumc.org

Faith United Methodist Church

faithumcspring.org

First United Methodist Church

fumc-conroe.org

Foundry United Methodist

foundrychurch.org

Klein United Methodist Church

kleinumc.org

Lakewood United Methodist

lakewoodumc.org

Spring Woods United Methodist

springwoodsumc.org

The Woodlands United Methodist Church

thewoodlandsumc.org

NON DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Community Church

calvaryhouston.com

Conroe Community Church

conroecommunitychurch.org

First Assembly of God

conroefirst.org

Living Branch Church

lbclife.org

The Crossing Church

thecrossing.cc

Vineyard Church of Conroe

conroevineyard.org

Woodlands Church

woodlandschurch.tv

ORTHODOX St. Cyril Orthodox Church

stcyril.us/orthodox-houston

saintjonah.org

Good Shepherd Tomball

goodshepherdtomball.org

St Jonah Orthodox

Holy Comforter Episcopal Church

holycomforterspring.org

PRESBYTERIAN

St. Aidan’s Episcopal

aidanschurch.org

First Presbyterian Church Conroe

fpcconroe.org

St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal

stcuthbert.org

Heritage Presbyterian Church

heritagepresbyterian.org

St. Dunstan’s Episcopal

saintdunstans.org

OTHERS

St. James the Apostle Episcopal Church

stjta.org

Hope City Church

yourhopecity.com

St. Mary’s Episcopal

stmaryscypress.org

Woodlands Church

wc.org

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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In this section

Hospitals & Major Medical Facilities Medical Moving Tips Finding a Doctor

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Northwest Houston and Montgomery County have grown over the years to meet the healthcare needs of the communities they serve. Patients now have the opportunity to heal closer to home, work and family.

The city of Houston is world-famous for

expertise in cardiovascular disease, cancer,

tests. Some clinics are located within stores

medical care. At the forefront of advancing

children’s medical

life sciences, Texas Medical Center is one

ence,

of the world’s most respected medical

areas. More heart surgeries are performed

state-of-the-art

centers. Each year, the Texas Medical

here

cardiac care, cancer research and therapy,

Center receives 10 million patient visits. It

Visit them at www.tmc.edu.

problems,

neurosci-

or shopping centers and have extended

strokes, rehabilitations

and other

hours to accommodate their patients. These

than anywhere else in the world.

facilities

offer

advanced

trauma care, sports medicine, and many

has 106,000 employees, 50,000 life science

other innovative treatments. Staffs include

students and thousands of volunteers. It is

In addition to the most modern and

home to 21 renowned hospitals, 14 support

comprehensive healthcare

organizations, and a myriad of academic

the Greater Houston region,

and research institutions, and specialty

of Northwest Houston and Montgomery

schools. As the largest medical complex in

County areas can find family doctors and

the world with 9,200 beds, it is busy; a baby

specialists, as well as neighbor- hood emer-

is born here every 20 minutes and a surgical

gency clinics that are equipped to treat most

conditions such as smoking cessation and

procedure begins every three.

illnesses, minor injuries and other health-re-

weight loss. Wellness Centers affiliated with

facilities

in

residents

top ranking physicians, quality nursing care and highly skilled support services.

Recent additions to personal health care options include specialty clinics that treat

lated needs. With little or no waiting, walk-in

hospitals or a physician’s practice frequently

The dedicated scholars collaborating at

patients can get a routine physical, school

offer weight reduction, health management

the Texas Medical

immunizations, and standard screening

programs and medical spa treatments.

Center

have

great

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

65

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES

AREA HOSPITALS CHI St. Luke’s Health CHI St. Luke’s Health is dedicated to a mission of enhancing health through high-quality,

cost-effective

care.

In

conjunction with physicians and community partners, CHI St. Luke’s Health is committed to excellence and compassion in caring for the whole person. Health is not merely the absence of illness or the presence of physical well-being, and our team of experienced, compassionate physicians and staff understands that it’s the result of achieving a balance between the elements found within each patient and in our greater communities as a whole.

MOVING MEDICAL TIPS 1

If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in this publication to get information.

2

Call the offices of all your current physicians/dentists and tell them that you are moving. Ask for referrals they might be willing to make.

3

If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of the records of each of your family members to your new doctor.

4

If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/ dentist to make copies of pertinent records of all your family members for you to take with you. Pack these records in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency.

Our

North

Houston

community

is

constantly growing, and it’s part of our healing mission to grow with it. We’re dedicated to bringing well- ness to every member of our community by providing expert resources at convenient locations.

With hospitals in The Woodlands and Springwoods Village, plus freestanding ERs and specialist clinics, we have you covered, no matter where you are or what you need.

CHI St. Luke’s Hospital at The Vintage CHI St. Luke’s Health is dedicated to a mission of enhancing health through highquality, cost-effective care. In conjunction with physicians and community partners, CHI St. Luke’s Health is committed to excellence and compassion in caring

for

the whole person. Health is not merely the absence of illness or the presence of

5 6

It is extremely important that you get the immunization records for your children before you move. You cannot enroll your children in local schools without these records. You will also need certified copies of your children’s birth certificates as well as the addresses of your children’s former schools.

If you are a member of a healthcare HMO/PPO plan, or have a prescription drug card, be sure to notify the company of your moving plans. The insurance company should be able to provide you with a list of physicians/ healthcare facilities in the area.

7

physical well-being, and their team of experienced, compassionate

physicians

and staff understands that it’s the result of achieving a balance between the elements found within each patient and in the greater communities as a whole.

As part of the CHI St. Luke’s Health System, they are backed by one of the nation’s top

Pack an emergency first aid kit to take en route to your new home. Items such as bandages, thermometer, pain killers or aspirin, antihistamine, firstaid ointment, tweezers and decongestant can come in handy.

health care providers to bring you access to incredible hospitals and emergency centers throughout the Greater Houston area and the expertise of the most compassionate caregivers in the region. A reason the families

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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here choose CHI St. Luke’s Health—The

staffed on-site by neonatologists

Vintage to keep them healthy. Make an

nurse practitioners from Texas Children’s

Advancing Health in Houston - Memorial

appointment with one of their experienced

Hospital; Midwifery services for expectant

Hermann has created Houston’s largest,

physicians at ApptASAP.org

mothers seeking “high-touch, low inter-

full-service, integrated health system focused

vention” care.

on advancing the health of the community.

Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital

and

Memorial Hermann

For the system’s 5,500 affiliated physicians • Comprehensive Cancer Center including a

and 26,000 employees, it means exercising

Providing top-notch healthcare to the North-

Breast Care Center, an Infusion Center for

uncompromising commitment to deliver

west Houston area since 1983, Cypress

outpatient chemotherapy and an oncology

the best health care possible by harnessing

Fairbanks Medical Center is a community

nurse navigation program to guide patients

leading-edge technology and using the safest

cornerstone when it comes to health and

from diagnosis through survivorship.

methods. For patients, it means having the

care for families. Cy-Fair Hospital has 180 beds and nearly 500 doctors and skilled staff

best tools to prevent health problems as well • Full

spectrum

of

orthopedic,

as the best chance to regain their health

members. They offer a 24-hour emergency

medicine and

services

following an illness or injury. It’s no wonder

care facility, a Primary Stroke Center, an

from Houston Methodist Orthopedics &

Memorial Hermann is the only Houston

accredited Chest Pain Center, pediatric care,

Sports Medicine at Willowbrook; Sports

health system to receive both the National

bariatrics, ob-gyn services and much more.

Performance services including sports

Quality Forum’s National Quality Health-

Cy-Fair Hospital also has received advanced

nutrition, strength and conditioning, sports

care Award in 2009 and the 2012 John M.

Level

psychology and exercise physiology

Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and

III

Trauma Facility Designation

rehabilitation

sports

Quality from The Joint Commission and the

from the Texas Department of State Health Services, making their facility the first in the Cy-Fair area to receive this honor.

• A collaborative approach to treating back and neck pain, which includes orthopedic,

National Quality Forum, the nation’s guardians of health and safety.

neurological and rehabilitation services.

One of the largest not-for-profit health

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Leading Medicine in Northwest Houston

• Minimally invasive robotic surgery options

systems in the nation, Memorial Hermann

- Since opening in 2000, Houston Meth-

for conditions across a variety of special-

serves Southeast Texas and the Greater

odist Willowbrook Hospital has grown

ties including bariatric, cardiac, colon and

Houston community with 17 hospitals,

to serve the comprehensive health care

rectal, gynecologic, thoracic, urogyneco-

including four in the Texas Medical Center, a

needs of Northwest Houston. The not-for-

logic and urologic surgeries.

level I trauma center, a hospital for children,

profit, faith-based hospital, which is part of Houston Methodist, has 312 licensed beds and a medical staff that exceeds 900 physicians. “At Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, our mission is to offer leading medicine care where research, innovation, personalized care and service, and spiritual care and compassion all merge to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients,” says Keith Barber, chief executive officer at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital and senior vice president of Houston Methodist. The hospital’s comprehensive services include: • Accredited Chest Pain Center and certified Primary Stroke Center • Freestanding emergency care centers in Spring and Cypress • Award-winning maternity services with a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

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HEALTHCARE RESOURCES

an orthopedic and spine hospital, and one of the top two rehabilitation hospitals in the United States, along with 10 suburban hospitals and two surgery centers. Building on a strong relationship with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, the system also operates three Heart & Vascular Institute locations; the Mischer Neuroscience Institute at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center; the IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute at four locations; Women’s Memorial Hermann. Additionally, the system operates Memorial Hermann Life Flight® – the largest and busiest air ambulance service in the United States; the Prevention and Recovery Center for chemical dependency

treatment;

and a comprehensive

array of home health services, rehabilitation centers, outpatient imaging and laboratory services including The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Breast Care with Memorial Hermann. The system’s comprehensive ambulatory care network also includes Memorial Hermann Urgent Care and Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Centers. Everyday Well.com connects you to Memorial Hermann’s comprehensive

FINDING A DOCTOR Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also requires finding the grocery store you like, the schools your kids will attend - and the healthcare practitioners that fit the needs of your family. The following is list of local and national physician resource, including the American Medical Association - where you can search for general practice physicians by location, specialty, and more.

network of care, with convenient physical locations, virtual care and easy-to-use online tools for managing your health.

The Woodlands - Since 1985, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital has provided high quality, patient- and family-centered care. It is the first and only hospital in Montgomery County to be granted Magnet® status for nursing

American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician resource under the

excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. And it is also the first and

“Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org

only hospital in the county to earn the

American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s

Baby-Friendly® designated birth facility

health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is comprehen-

by Baby-Friendly USA, Inc. for providing

sive site for health-related news, questions, and other topics. www.aap.

optimal care for breastfeeding mothers

org • www.healthychildren.org

and their babies. Memorial Hermann The

prestigious international recognition as a

Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across the state, as well as information on general health resources; go to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org

Wood- lands has 351 beds and is a primary stroke center and part of a citywide, accredited Chest Pain Center network and features open-heart surgery, complex arrhythmia services and cardiac rehabilitation. It is home to a Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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Medicine Institute and TIRR Memorial Hermann rehabilitation services.

CYPRESS - Located in the dynamic and fastgrowing Cypress area, Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital brings the expertise of the Memorial Hermann Health System, including the region’s top medical specialists, to families in the Cypress and Northwest Houston area. Their affiliated, board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals employ advanced medical equipment and state-of-the-art technology to address the community’s healthcare needs, from routine outpatient

visits

to

complex

inpatient

procedures.

Opened in Spring 2017, the 81-bed Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital offers eight

Coronary Intervention” by Healthgrades

Outpatient services are now offered

operating rooms, 16-bed intensive care

and also recognized by WomenCertified as

Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands.

unit, labor & delivery, NICU, cardiac cath-

One of “America’s Best Stroke Centers”.

The Outpatient Building houses 72 exam

eterization lab, a Life Flight helipad and

The hospital was located and designed to be

rooms and nearly 20 areas of specialized

24-hour, state-of-the-art emergency care by

a staple in the Cypress/Northwest Houston

care including cardiology, sports medicine,

board-certified emergency medicine physi-

area, located off highway 290 and accessible

diabetes and endocrinology, neurology and

cians affiliated with Memorial Hermann and

to the entire Northwest Corridor.

hematology/oncology.

nurses specially trained in emergency care.

Inpatient

at

services,

including the emergency center, will open in

On the same campus, a new 125,000-square-

Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands

2017. The hospital will house 32 inpatient

foot medical plaza houses physician offices

As Houston and its surrounding commu-

rooms, 25 emergency center exam rooms,

for a variety of affiliated specialists as well

nities grow, Texas Children’s Hospital

four operating rooms, 12 radiology rooms

as adult and pediatric health care provided

continues to expand as well. Texas Chil-

and 28 critical care rooms, with plans to

by Memorial Hermann Medical Group.

dren’s is not only committed to meeting

add up to 200 additional beds in the future to

The medical plaza also includes outpatient

the needs of patients and families we serve,

meet community needs.

lab and comprehensive imaging services (including mammography by MD Anderson Breast Care with Memorial Hermann) and sports medicine and rehabilitation.

Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital is located at 27800 Northwest Freeway (Hwy 290), Cypress, Texas, 77433, east of the Grand Parkway between Mueschke and Mason.

North Cypress Medical Center North Cypress Medical Center is a 175-bed

but we are committed to doing that in a way that works for them. For so many, this means providing care close to home. That’s exactly why we are building Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands.

The communities in this area are some of the fastest-growing in the nation, with a combined population already exceeding 1.1 million. The pediatric population alone

Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands is led by Michelle Riley-Brown, president, Dr. Charles Hankins, chief medical officer and Dr. Jeffrey Shilt, chief surgical officer. Texas Children’s anticipates serving families in counties throughout Greater North Houston including Montgomery, Walker, Grimes, Liberty, Harris, Polk, San Jacinto and Hardin counties and beyond.

The hospital building project is part of

physician-owned, general acute care hospital.

is projected to grow to more than 350,000

Their services include the absolute latest

in the next three years. In order to meet this

including state-of-the-art equipment and

need, Texas Children’s Hospital The Wood-

technology, fantastic physician on staff and a

lands, a 560,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art

$475 million fundraising effort is to help

beautiful upscale building, much like a 5-star

facility, is being designed specifically to serve

ensure that Texas Children’s continues to meet

hotel. Northwest Cypress Medical Center

children and families. We are proud that the

the needs of the patients it serves 5, 10 and

has achieved many accolades including

hospital will be the first dedicated to chil-

even 20 years from now. For more informa-

falling in America’s “Top Best Hospitals for

dren’s care in The Woodlands community.

tion, visit texaschildrens.org/woodlands. 

Promise: The Campaign for Texas Children’s Hospital. The goal of the comprehensive

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

69

In this section

North Houston Major Employers Local Chambers of Commerce Houston by the Numbers City of Conroe Top Employers

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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BUSINESS &

COMMUNITY If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a newcomer relocating to the Houston region for the city’s tremendous employment opportunities – some of the best in the nation.

Within

the

600-square-mile

Houston

The

city’s

diversified

economy means

public education), leisure and hospitality

region, no area shines brighter than the

opportunities always exist. If energy is

Northwest

Montgomery

floundering, other sectors sail on. More

County area, home to one of the largest

than 8,200 vessel calls and 215,000 barges

Northwest Houston is a significant part

recent corporate relocations anywhere in

pass through the Port of Houston in annu-

of this dynamic business environment and

the nation. Houston is still the place for

ally. One of the region’s largest employers,

continues to see growth in corporate relo-

the Texas Medical Center should handle

cations,

another 10 million patient-visits. Area

new residents. With the opening of

refiners will continue to supply one-fourth

Houston campus of Exxon Mobil near I-45

of the nation’s gasoline, diesel and jet fuel

and the Hardy Toll Road, this trend will

needs. International trade will continue

continue. The state-of- the-art campus will

to be a significant contributor to Hous-

house its Upstream, Downstream, Chem-

Houston

and

business and work. A year after the

oil

bust reached its bottom, the city’s economy is recovering, but slowly. From October 2017 to October 2018, the Houston metropolitan area added about 117,800 jobs. The unemployment by the end of March 2019

and health care.

business

development

and the

ton’s economy; more than 5,000 Houston

ical companies and associated service

was 3.7 percent, lower than it has ever been

firms will engage in international business.

groups and will ultimately accommodate

in more than a decade. If the price of oil

Another new Houstonian will arrive about

10,000 workers. Other prestigious compa-

continues to rise, the Houston area will see

every 4 minutes, and this population growth

nies located in Northwest Houston are

a possible increase of 71,000 or more in

will continue to drive job gains in a number

Sysco, Friendswood Development, and

jobs for the year 2019.

of sectors, including government (especially

Hewlett-Packard.

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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

Area businesses run the gamut with auto

NORTH HOUSTON

MAJOR EMPLOYERS

and any other service or product a thriving city requires. Tech companies

have

lined

Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce www.conroe.org

up along SH 249 and the Vintage Park is an

First organized as the Montgomery County

Anadarko Energy Svc. Co.

84-acre complex of high-end shopping, enter-

Chamber of Commerce in 1934, the Greater

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

tainment, restaurants and professional office

Conroe/Lake Conroe Area Chamber of

Archrock Inc

space. Newcomers can expect to find clusters

Commerce is celebrating 83 years of service

Baker Hughes

of office

warehouses and light

to the Montgomery County area, having

manufacturing facilities. Service companies,

grown from three members to more than

building

construction companies,

1,100 today. This dynamic organization

related business groups

works to generate awareness, create partner-

BP Bredero Shaw Broadcom Corp.

suppliers,

buildings, and and

continue to fill the existing commercial spaces.

ships and provide leadership for progressive

Callfasst International Corp

In fact, this part of Houston is known for its

development and growth while enhancing

CB&I Inc.

distribution facilities due to its handy location.

the quality of life in Montgomery County.

While all of Northwest Houston is benefit-

Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce www.CyFairChamber.com

Conroe Regional Medical Ctr. Criminal Justice Dept.

DB Schenker USA

Source: SalesGenie InfoUSA and information provided by area chambers of commerce and economic development agencies

dealerships, grocery stores, hotels, eateries,

ting from the new ExxonMobil campus, The Woodlands, Spring and I-45 North areas are

Estelle Unit

also undergoing major change. ExxonMobil

Express Jet Airlines Inc.

has grabbed the headlines lately – and rightly

ExxonMobil Downstream

so – but Montgomery County is also home

ExxonMobil Upstream Research

to a growing number of major companies,

Fleetpride Inc FMC Material Handling System FMC Tech Measurement Solutions

including Anadarko Petroleum, with its 2,400 employees in The Woodlands. With other big employers including Hewitt Associates, Baker Hughes and Huntsman, The Woodlands has

FMC Technologies Inc.

become one of Houston’s biggest employment

GE Oil & Gas

centers and is sprouting an impressive skyline

George Bush Intercontinental Airport

visible along I-45 North. There’s already talk

Halliburton Co.

of this region emerging as Houston’s second

Houston Methodist Willowbrook

“Energy Corridor.”

Cy-Fair boasts a favorable business climate in which to live and grow. Since 1986, the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce has represented business in one of the fastest growing areas of Texas, providing a voice for the over 500 members to establish strategic partnerships in transportation, education

and

infrastructure. Members

include small to medium organizations to Fortune 500 companies, and benefits include mentoring new businesses, exclusive sponsorship and marketing opportunities, instructive seminars, workshops and valuable data resources.

Houston Northwest Medical Ctr.

As the need for more employees and

Kingwood Emergency Hospital

houses grow, so too, does the need for

The Chamber is also active in growing

Lone Star College-Cy Fair

buildings and facilities for businesses

economic development, facilitating trans-

Montgomery County Courthouse

serving them. The Northwest Houston

portation, as well as supporting schools

Mrs. Baird’s Bakeries Inc.

and

and educators to ensure a skilled or highly

MS Energy Svc. Nabors Drilling USA LP New Caney ISD NOV Nova Health Care Ctr.

Montgomery

County

areas

are

hopping and full of energy.

trained work force for the future. Members of this dynamic network take advantage of

City of Willis Economic Development Council www.visitwillis.com The Willis Economic Development Corpora-

opportunities to grow their businesses, build relationships and interact with the community.

The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com

PCS-CTS

tion (EDC) provides assistance and resources

Ricoh USA

to business owners in the City of Willis. The

The Grand Parkway (SH99) is a proposed

Schlumberger

Willis EDC offers resources, incentives, and

180+-mile circumferential scenic highway

TAS Commercial Concrete

information that help business owners make a

traversing seven counties and encircling

good decision about where to locate their busi-

the Greater Houston region. This third

ness, and serve as an advocate as businesses

outer highway loop is funded by various

get up and running in the community.

sources, and its first segment, from US-59

Tomball Regional Med. Ctr. Wood Group Mustang Engineering

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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to north of IH-10W, was opened to traffic

Mont- gomery County since 1982, supporting

leaders, work to generate publicity about

in August 1994. Two new sections through

area businesses and giving back to the

their own business through active involve-

north Houston from US-290 to US-59 have

community. The Chamber’s leadership has

ment in Chamber activities or have a role

just been opened. Development on the

succeeded in providing answers to members

in community affairs. In addition, members

highway continues.

and the community, increasing mobility and

can take advantage of many events organized

improving environmental quality.

by the Chamber, like Business After Hours,

Greater Conroe Economic Development Council www.gcedc.org

Greater Tomball Chamber of Commerce www.tomballchamber.org

The Greater Conroe Economic Develop-

The Greater Tomball Area Chamber of

ment Council works to link new or relocating

Commerce provides resources and fosters

businesses to all the resources they need,

relationships so businesses can prosper. First

allowing them to make informed decisions

organized in the 1920s, the Greater Tomball

and enjoy a seamless transition experience.

Chamber of Commerce has since grown

Their mission is to enhance the strength and stability of the greater Conroe economy by supporting existing businesses and industries and attracting new ones, bringing in new capital and employment opportunities.

Greater

Commerce

Magnolia has

served

reputation for representing the interests of

others. The golf classic, the Chairman’s Ball, Tomball Night, Tomball Holiday Parade and Miss Tomball Pageant are major events in the City of Tomball.

GTACC and its partners work together to ensure spirit of community and quality of life are more than just phrases in this city with a heart.

its members, while providing passionate

The Greens Bayou Corridor

advocacy for the community. The Chamber’s

www.greensbayou.org

Program of Work is divided into four categories: Economic Development, Community

The Greens Bayou Corridor Coalition seeks to

Service, Special Events and Membership

benefit the economy and enhance the quality

Development. Through these initiatives,

of life for the more than 500,000 residents in

of

members have the opportunity to network

the Greens Bayou water- shed through flood

Southwest

with other business people and community

mitigation, parks and trails development, and

Greater Magnolia Chamber of Commerce www.magnoliatexas.org The

into a vital organization with an excellent

Networking Luncheons and Breakfasts and

Chamber

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

73

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

economic growth. Greens Bayou meanders

HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house here, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help figure out the rest. If you made $53,759 in Denver, for example, your salary could decrease to $41,995 in Houston - and you’d still maintain the same standard of living. See the table below for the results from a sampling of other cities.

approximately 45 miles from Jersey Village, across north Houston, through Greenspoint and down to the Houston Ship Channel. The variety of scenery and wildlife of the bayou is as diverse as the neighborhoods through which it runs.

Working with partners and stakeholder groups, the Coalition’s mission is to develop Greens Bayou Corridor as: an essential, attractive and well-planned multi-use waterway; a linear park and trail system; a utility corridor; and a high-capacity cross-country transit/highway link. The Coalition also seeks to improve the viability of

MOVING FROM HERE

SALARY

MOVING FROM HERE

SALARY

businesses along the bayou corridor by fostering economic development, minimizing flooding, preserving desirable green space and providing

Phoenix

61,439

New York City

25,910

transportation and utility services.

Detroit

61,825

Los Angeles

41,995

Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce

Austin

61,375

Chicago

50,705

San Francisco

33,401

Las Vegas

54,454

Boston

40,831

Portland

45,498

nesses and a thriving community, on a variety

Denver

53,759

St. Louis

63,697

lative issues, connectivity events, workforce

Miami

52,466

Raleigh

65,104

Pittsburgh

59,756

Cincinnati

64,818

expect unique marketing and visibility through

Dallas

61,311

Charleston

58,336

customers to help their businesses grow.

www.houstonnwchamber.org The

Houston

Northwest

Chamber

of

Commerce works to develop successful busiof fronts, including road access projects, legisdevelopment projects or economic development initiatives. Membership businesses can the chamber, as well as access to products and

In addition to advocating for area business, the Chamber is also interested in maintaining livability and, in the last few years, has hosted, sponsored or supported at least eight different community grass roots initiatives including the Cypress Creek Greenway Case Study, a Livable Center Study Grant and several crime prevention

task forces.

A

key initiative, Grow

Northwest is a strategic plan to build upon the community’s successes and to advance the local economy. Learn more at www.GrowHoustonNW.com Magnolia Parkway Chamber of Commerce

www.magnoliaparkwaycc.org The

Magnolia

Parkway

Chamber

of

Commerce promotes member businesses and

74

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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Visit us today at

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

75

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

encourages economic development in their service area

along

FM

CITY OF CONROE TOP EMPLOYERS

1488, FM 2978

and beyond. Calling itself “the Chamber without borders,” it hosts monthly meetings and events throughout the year for members and prospective members.

Montgomery County Hispanic Chapter www.mchchamber.org

Conroe Independent School District

Medivators Inc

Elementary And Secondary Schools

Mckesson Pharmaceutical

Conroe Independent School District

Ball Corporation

Montgomery County

Huntsman Petrochemical Llc

Conroe Regional Medical Center

Ms Energy Services

Nov Downhole

Protect Controls Inc

City Of Conroe

Anyone with an interest in supporting or

Consolidated Communications Services

developing a relationship with the Hispanic

Wal-Mart Stores Inc

business community in Montgomery County

Nov Fluid Control 3 Locations

and surrounding area is welcome to join the

Professional Directional

MCHC. Not only do they work to help busi-

Tri-County Services Inc

nesses penetrate the growing Hispanic market,

Gullo Cars Of Conroe, Inc

but they are also involved with issues important

Crown Beverage Packaging Team Oil Tools San Jacinto River Authority Nexeo Solutions Llc Bauer Manufacturing Streater-Smith Honda Nissan

to the Hispanic community, such as immigra-

Jyoti International Inc

Hempel Coatings USA Inc

tion, day labor, education and health.

Milk Products Lp Dba Borden

Lone Star Family Health Clinic

Nov Texas Oil Tools

Conroe Machine LLC

Turbo Drill

Tony Gullo Motors I, LP

Russell Construction Company

John Wiesner Inc

North Houston District www.northhouston.org The North Houston District is a dynamic community 15 miles north of downtown Houston and minutes from Bush Intercontinental Airport and the Port of Houston. It is

the environment, and quality of life, all of

The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce

which have a profound and

www.woodlandschamber.org

lasting effect

home to some of Houston’s most prominent

on the economic development of the busi-

companies. In fact, more than 100 energy-re-

ness climate and community of the area.

lated companies and thousands of non-energy

Building strong alliances with partners, they

businesses are located here. The prime loca-

have been able to achieve milestones like

tion makes the District ideal for companies

gaining grass roots support for the Hardy Toll

conducting business locally and around the

Road, advocating for the Grand Parkway,

corporations. The Chamber continuously

globe. With excellent hotels and restaurants,

establishing the Greens Bayou Corridor

cultivates new and innovative ways for

many parks, with miles of walking or hiking

Coalition, developing the Aerial Land Use

members to market themselves, their prod-

trails, and a commitment to attracting the best

Map, creating a Strategic Mobility Plan and

ucts and services to fellow members and the

in commercial and residential life, the North

many other endeavors

community. It is working to be an effective

Houston District works hard to create an Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce

center in which to work, live and play.

www.springkleinchamber.org

The North Houston Association advocates and supports projects and initiatives

business associations in the Houston region, the Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce represents small and emerging businesses, mid-market companies and industry leading

catalyst for the economic growth and pros-

appealing, safe, accessible and green activity

The North Houston Association www.north-houston.com

As one of the largest and most influential

The Spring Klein Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization with a mission to connect businesses within the Spring-Klein area, which in turn will allow the growing

perity in the Woodlands area.

The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership www.edpartnership.net The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership can help existing companies

which advance the business environment

community to thrive. Through a variety of

and improve the quality of life in North

networking events and programs, executives,

and families to this dynamic community

Harris and Montgomery counties. Estab-

business owners and like-minded profes-

where they can live, work and grow. It is a

lished in 1982, the non-profit organization

sionals can succeed, while contributing to

direct link to all the area has to offer, allowing

works with its members to consider issues

the success of others and the overall business

business people to make informed decisions

of mobility, education, workforce training,

climate of the Spring and Klein areas.

and smooth transitions. 

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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expand or help move a company, its employees

Harris County

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Montgomery County © Texas Almanac

99

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San

LR

45

242

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2978

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59

2090

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1485

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8 MILES

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1774

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1488

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1484

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1484

336

LR

1774

2432

BN

F

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149

SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL FOREST Cr eek

LR

830

Panorama Village

Dobbin

105

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JA

Lake Conroe

Montgomery

Willis

a Pe

1486

Lewis Creek Reservoir

1097

N

149

1097

75

SA

SF

1097

Dacus

45

SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL FOREST

BN

GRIMES

Rolling, half timbered; Sam Houston National Forest; loam, sandy, alluvial soils; Lake Conroe and Lewis Creek Reservoir.

1791

149

Wages................................$2,191,523,418 Per Capita Inc...............................$60,490 Prop. Value......................$54,317,835,443 Retail Sales.........................$7,833,735,189

LR

494

Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.

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77

In this section Sports and Golf Parks and Attractions Arts and Culture Dining and Shopping Calendar of Events

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LEISURE & RECREATION

In the Northwest Houston and Montgomery County area, you’re only minutes away from a world-class culinary, arts and cultural scene.

Houston’s live theater, music, and opera are highly regarded; and the fine arts, both classic and contemporary, are on display at the many galleries and museums. There are sporting events year-round and the city’s parks welcome picnickers, hikers, bicyclists, boaters and pets.

From art fairs to crawfish festivals, from live music to rodeos, there’s always a reason to get out and enjoy yourself in Montgomery County. And when you want to venture a little further from home, all the attractions of the Greater Houston region are right next door.

Conroe Convention and Visitors Bureaus Discover all the entertainment treasures Conroe has to offer, including concerts, restaurants, golf courses, a calendar of events and more. You’ll also find travel planning and professional planners for business groups. Several helpful publications are offered at www.playinconroe.com or call 936-522-3500.

Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau Discover the fun side of the fourth largest city in America. The Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau (GHCVB) is the principal marketing organization for the city of Houston and Harris County and highlights all the venues, events, museums and fun things to do. It offers itinerary planning, information

for business travelers and conventions, a list of free stuff, and much more.

Discounts and coupons are available on their interactive web site in both English and Spanish along with comprehensive information including an online events calendar, maps, video gallery, city blog. Visitor information packets and a Meeting Planners guide can be found at www.VisitHoustonTexas.com.

Citypass Adventures See five of the most popular one-of-a-kind sights Houston offers at a discount with CityPASS: Adults -$59 – Children $49. You have nine days to use them and they save you nearly half off regular ticket pricing.

Available at the Houston Visitor’s Center www.VisitHoustonTexas.com.

Old Town Spring Visitor Bureau Enjoy a stroll back in time among more than 150 shops, galleries, museums and restaurants that line the shady lanes of Old Town Spring. Take in one of the many events and festivals held year-round, or just relax in one

of the gazebos. For accommodations, tours and a map, visit at www.shopspringtexas. com or call 281-288-2355.

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau is always ready to share information about fun things to do and is a great resource for visitors, newcomers and residents. Whether it’s just the two of you, a getaway with the family, a reunion or large gathering, or a business meeting, there’s something for everyone in The Woodlands.

Try award winning restaurants, wine bars and world-class entertainment in Town Center. Or enjoy the great outdoors by renting a kayak or strolling along The Woodlands Waterway, taking in an outdoor concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion or hiking through the winding trails at the George Mitchell Preserve.

Request a free visitor’s guide and map at www.visitthewoodlands.com or call 877-963-2447 or 281-363-2447.

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SPORTS

& GOLF

Northwest Houston offers a wide variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone: couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scenes. With year-round mild temperatures, getting up and getting out has become a way of life.

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SPECTATOR SPORTS The Houston Astros www.astros.com Part of the West Division of Major League Baseball’s American League, the Houston Astros are on a roll. Currently the winningest team in baseball, the team and its fans are having a lot of fun. Playing in Minute Maid Park, one of the country’s few stadiums with a retractable roof, the team serves up entertaining baseball action at home about 80 times over the course of the season. Fans enjoy gourmet hot dogs, handmade hot dogs, pork sliders, tex-mex fare and many other delectable choices while enjoying the game. Around the park, many restaurants, clubs and music venue hop, especially on game day.

The Houston Dynamo www.houstondynamo.com Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Houston’s Major Soccer League club. The team name is reflective, in part, of Houston,

Photos courtesy of the Houston Texans

an energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, fans have lots to cheer about as this team continues to rank well both at home and internationally. The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass Stadium, an architecturally acclaimed venue, located east of downtown.

The Houston Rockets www.houstonrockets.com The Houston Rockets are the city’s professional

National

Basketball

Association

team playing in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. Two-time world

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LEISURE & RECREATION

an exciting roster that includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and new up-and-comers, like Deshaun Watson.

Sunday football is celebrated in NRG stadium cheering on the team, tailgating with friends in the parking lot before and after the game, at many sports bars around town, or in front of your own television. Go Texans!

GOLF

Buffalo Bayou - Photo courtesy of Visit Houston

basketball champions, the Rockets are

The Houston Texans

regular challengers in playoff action and

www.houstontexans.com

always provide exciting end-to-end action in the Toyota Center. Many star players

Football is huge in Texas and the Texas are

have passed through the team’s roster over

huge in Houston. In their 16th season, this

its almost-fifty-year history and now James

NFL professional team are the 2011, 2012

Hardin and the rest have launched the

and 2015 AFC South Division Champions.

Rockets back into competitive contention.

Head coach Bill O’brien has put together

Houston is a golfer’s paradise with over 200 days of sunshine. And in Northwest Houston, a wide range of municipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Fazio. Or watch the professionals grip it and rip it at the nearby Houston Open.

In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA professionals and First Tee Programs are offered throughout the area.

GOLF COURSES April Sound Country Club

aprilsoundcountryclub.com

Houston Oaks Country Club

houstonoaks.com

Bear Creek Golf World

bearcreekgolfworld.com

Jersey Meadows Golf Course

jerseymeadow.com

BlackHorse Golf Club

blackhorsegolfclub.com

Lake Windcrest Golf Club

thegolftrails.com

Cypresswood Golf Course

cypresswood.com

Longwood Golf Club

longwoodgc.com

Del Lago Golf Resort

latorettalakeresort.com

Memorial Park Golf Course.

houstonmunicipalgolf.org

Gleannloch Pines Golf Club

golfgleannlochpines.com

River Plantation Country Club

riverplantationcc.com

High Meadow Ranch Golf Club

highmeadowranchgolf.com

The Village Golf Club

thevillagegc.com

Heron Lakes Golf Club

heronlakesgc.com

WindRose Golf Club

windrosegolfclub.com

Houston National Golf Club

houstonnationalgolf.com

Woodforest Golf Club

woodforestgolf.com

PRIVATE Bentwater Yacht & Country Club

bentwater.com

Bluejack National Golf Club

bluejacknational.com

Lake Windcrest Golf Club

lakewindcrestgc.com

Canongate at the Woodlands

canongatetexas.com

Northgate Country Club

northgatecountryclub.com

The Clubs of Kingwood - Kingwood theclubsofkingwood.com

Raveneaux Country Club

raveneaux.com

The Clubs of Kingwood - Deerwood theclubsofkingwood.com

River Plantation Country Club

riverplantationcc.com

The Club at Carlton Woods

carltonwoods.com

Walden on Lake Conroe Golf Club

playwalden.com

Champions Golf Club

championsgolfclub.com

The Woodlands Country Club

thewoodlandscc.com

Hearthstone Country Club

clubcorp.com/clubs/hearthside-country-club

Willow Creek Golf Club

willowcreekclub.com

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The Golf Trails of The Woodlands thegolftrails.com

Photo courtesy of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce

PUBLIC

2020

PARKS Bane Park

fields, four lighted softball fields, one regula-

Dennis Johnston Park

tion lighted football field and covered horse

Dennis Johnston Park is a 45-acre facility with

arena with concession stands and restrooms.

a pavilion and picnic tables, a small pond,

Bane Park is a 18.2-acre facility with barbecue

pergola, walking trails, a butterfly and huming-

grills, picnic pavilions, picnic tables, two

Collins Park

bird garden, and access to Spring Creek. Also,

lighted ball fields, a five-acre wheelchair-ac-

Collins Park is a 55-acre facility with five

the park is home to Big Stone Lodge, which

cessible fishing

horseshoe

lighted softball fields, four lighted base-

is a shared use facility that serves as the Parks

pits, paved walking trail, playground, rock

ball fields, one unlighted soccer field, one

Department administrative headquarters and

climbing wall, sand volleyball court, splash

sand volleyball court, two playgrounds,

a Precinct 4 community center.

pad, and rest room facilities.

a skate park, nature trails, picnic tables,

lake,

gazebo,

barbecue grills, rest room facilities, a

Doss Park

Burroughs Park

canoe launch, and limited access to fishing

Doss Park is a 33-acre facility with five

Experience the lush landscape, winding

along Cypress Creek.

lighted softball fields, two lighted tennis

trails, and lakefront views at this 320-acre

courts,

three

pavilions,

batting

cages,

splendid park in Tomball. Amenities at

Cypress Creek Greenway

picnic tables, barbecue grills, a playground,

this facility include sports fields, a seven-

The Cypress Creek Greenway Project

walking trails, and rest room facilities.

acre fishing lake, five playgrounds, over

is underway and will ultimately create

eight miles of nature trails, picnic areas, an

a continuous 40-mile greenbelt along

Gene Campbell Sports Complex

observation deck and boardwalk, rest room

Cypress and Little Cypress Creeks. The

Gene Campbell Sports Complex, located

facilities, a dog park, and an award-winning

greenway will feature a multi-use trail

at 3200 FM 1484, Conroe, Texas 77303, is

barbecue pavilion that seats over 250 people.

system that will pass through parks and

a 60-acre facility with six lighted baseball

link to trails that extend into communi-

fields, six lighted softball fields, conces-

Charles Traylor Memorial Park

ties. In addition, the Bayou Preservation

sions and restrooms. Sports programs are

Charles Traylor Memorial Park, located at

Association (BPA) is leading the effort on

offered through Conroe Area Youth Base-

13551 Rogers Road, Willis, Texas 77378, is

Cypress Creek to develop a paddling trail

ball (CAYB) and Conroe Area Girls Softball

a 61 acre facility with eight lighted baseball

that will extend 30 miles.

Association (CAGSA). Private use of the

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LEISURE & RECREATION

Photo Courtesy of Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

fields requires prior permission from Montgomery County and the ball association and is subject to availability.

Gwen Hruska Park Gwen Hruska Park is located on Brandon

Water Wall Galleria - Photo Courtesy of GHCVB

Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve is an 80-acre property featuring Marshall Lake, which spans approximately 40 acres, plus a staff building, paved roads and parking lots, restroom facilities, and 1.7 miles of trails.

Road in the unincorporated area of River Plantation three miles south of Conroe on Interstate 45. The park includes 5,022 linear feet of concrete trails funded by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Grant Assistant Program. The park consists of 12 acres of land acquired through Federal Emergency Management

Agency

(FEMA)

buyout

properties and land donations after the 1994 flood disaster.

Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is a premier 312-acre Harris County Precinct 4 nature preserve open daily to visitors free of charge. The park features a variety of plant and wildlife species, white sand beaches along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs with century-old cypress trees, and a pristine floodplain located in a hardwood and pine forest. All features are accessible by over eight miles of paved, handicap-friendly pedestrian trails and several unpaved primitive trails. The Spring Creek Greenway, with over 12 miles of paved trail system along Spring Creek, is also accessible from the park’s Judy Overby Bell Trail.

84

Lake Conroe Park Lake Conroe Park, located at 14968 Hwy 105 West, Montgomery, Texas 77356, sits on the west shores of Lake Conroe and offers 13 acres of grounds, barbeque pits, picnic facilities and restrooms as well as swimming areas and fishing piers. Additional amenities include two covered pavilions available for rent, a softball field and volleyball areas.

Admission is $2.00 per person, kids 5 and under are free.

Lindsay/Lyons Park and Sports Complex Lindsay/Lyons Park and Sports Complex is a 136-acre facility with 10 lighted baseball fields and four lighted softball fields, two lighted football fields, 18 unlighted soccer fields, two lighted soccer fields, a barbecue pavilion, two playgrounds (including one all-inclusive playground and rest room facility for children of all physical abilities), picnic tables, barbecue grills, rest room facilities, and a concession stand with a pavilion.

Matzke Park Matzke Park, a 19.4-acre facility, includes a multiuse trail with water fountains, rest

NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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room facilities, one cricket field, an all-inclusive barrier-free playground, two picnic pavilions, one gazebo, and a butterfly and sensory garden.

Memory Park Memory Park is alive with native and naturalized Texas trees and plants, and there are walking trails, benches for relaxing, pavilions, a fountain, bridges, rainwater projects, a duck nesting area, specialized gardens, a naturalized area and waterfalls surrounding a large pond. The park contains a Shakespeare garden featuring a bust of the bard, signage in braille donated by the Lions Club, and various statues including the Honor Flight Eagle dedicated to the local veterans of World War II. Many of the plants and items in the park have been purchased and donated by families in memory of their loved ones.

Mercer Botanic Gardens The arboretum and botanic gardens are divided by Aldine Westfield Road. On the east side is the botanic gardens where over 20 acres of beautifully maintained gardens feature bamboo, color displays, daylilies, endangered species, ferns, gingers, herbs, tropicals, to name a few. The east side also has an extensive walking trail system, a Remembrance Walk for memorials and honorariums, ponds, a visitors’ center, courtyard plaza, plus much more.

Meyer Park Meyer Park is a 180-acre facility with 26 soccer fields (ten are lighted), two unlighted softball fields, a basketball court, barbecue pavilion, gazebo, paved trails, nature trails, duck pond*, a threeacre fishing lake, picnic tables, barbecue grills, two age-specific play- grounds, 15 exercise stations, recycling bins, and rest room facilities.

Mussel Pond Preserve Mussel Pond Preserve is a 22 acre conservation easement under Legacy Land Trust located on FM 2854 in Montgomery County Precinct Two. The site is named for the unique native Texas freshwater mussels (Unionidae) found along the edge of the ten acre pond located on the preserve. The formal opening of the preserve was in 2009.

Montgomery County War Memorial Park Montgomery County War Memorial Park is located in downtown Conroe on Highway 105 in front of the Montgomery County Tax Office. The Veteran’s Park,

as it is commonly called, was dedicated

ORWALL Sports Complex

April 29, 1976 by Gerald Ford, President

The Woodlands Sports Park, located on

of the United States in memory of those

Pruitt Road in south Montgomery County,

who served our country. The Veterans of

is a 27-acre park consisting of softball, foot-

Foreign War, Montgomery County Demo-

ball, and baseball fields with concession

cratic Party, The Patriotic and Historical

stands and restrooms. The Park property

Society as well as various other organiza-

is owned by the Woodlands Corporation

tions, hosts ceremonies on Memorial Day

and leased to Montgomery County who

each year commemorating fallen soldiers

subleases with Oak Ridge – Woodlands

of Montgomery County.

Area Little League, Inc. (ORWALL).

ORWALL maintains the park and facili-

Montgomery County Nature Preserve

tates the recreational programs. Private use

The

of the fields requires prior permission from

Montgomery

County

Preserve,

located at 1122 Pruitt Road in south

the association.

Montgomery County behind the Recycling Facility, provides a wonderful area for

Spring Creek Greenway

birdwatching, native plant observation and

Explore over 12 miles of natural forests and

hiking. The 71-acre green way, free to visit

white sandy beaches along the creek from

and open to the public daily, brings many

Harris County Precinct 4’s Dennis Johnston

ecotourists

Montgomery

Park in Spring, Texas to Jesse H. Jones Park

to

southern

Naturalists as

and Nature Center in Humble, Texas. Along

well as Butterfly Enthusiasts of Southeast

the way, stop in for a picnic by Hart Lake

Texas (B.E.S.T.) hosts official national

at the 380-acre Pundt Park or discover local

butterfly counts, monitors water quality,

wildlife and plant species at the 120-acre

and provides educational programs for

Stahl Preserve. Also nestled between Pundt

area citizens.

Park and Jones Park is Carter Park, a

County.

Local

Master

115-acre facility featuring a canoe launch, a 12-lane archery shooting range with Olympic-level target distances, and nature trails for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.

Tamina Park Tamina Park is a four acre parcel of land located approximately one half mile east of Interstate 45 in South Montgomery County on Main Street. The site contains a small community building, a softball field and covered basketball court with four goals, picnic tables and benches, playground equipment, barbeque grills, and bike racks.

West Montgomery County Park West Montgomery County Park, located at 16716 FM 149, Montgomery, Texas, 77356, is a 50 acre park with five lighted baseball fields, four lighted softball fields, two football fields, restrooms, two concession stands and picnic areas. West Park is maintained by Montgomery Youth Sports Houston Museum of Natural Science - Photo courtesy of Visit Houston

Association and Montgomery Girls Softball Association.

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ARTS, CULTURE s n o i t c a r t & At

The theater district is an impressive cultural and entertainment center; features nine world renowned performing arts organizations, and many smaller ones, in four venues – Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.

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THEATER DISTRICT Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002

levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers.

and adults and hold performances by both

Houston Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org

Stages Repertory Theatre 3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com

local authors and established writers.

www.alleytheatre.org One of

America’s leading not-for-profit

theatres calls the Houston Theater District Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing in productions of the classics, modern plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces more performances than all other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District.

Bayou Place 500 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.bayouplace.com Bayou Place is Houston’s premier destination for great food and good times. Popular venues such as the Revention Music Center and Sundance Cinemas are located here as well as many dining options – most popular is Houston’s own Hard Rock Café. This mosaic of entertainment options makes Bayou Place a prime spot for the Houston Theater District.

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings first-class entertainment and cultural enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series.

Houston Ballet 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as works.

Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environment, Houston Grand Opera entertains with their innovative programs, community events and educational projects. Houston Grand Opera has a solid reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 56 world premieres and seven American premieres since 1973. Stop in and visit and see why Houston Grand Opera has toured extensively, including trips to Europe and Asia, and is the only opera company to have won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards.

Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in

Houston Symphony 615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org

The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest

the region that offers year-round employment for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres.

Society for FINE the Performing Arts 615 Louisiana St., Ste. 100, Houston, 77002 www.spahouston.org

nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed

The Houston Symphony’s mission is to “inspire and engage a large diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.” By 2025, the Houston Symphony aims to be one of America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestras.

artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years.

Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class

www.thehobbycenter.org

contemporary

This

Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually.

Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com

company

attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy whose instruction

Founded in 1975 and has been opening doors for locals of all ages to engage in the performing arts. They offer classes for children

musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities.

Wortham Theater Center 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.

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LEISURE & RECREATION

MUSEUM DISTRICT The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com Otherwise known as the “Garage Mahal”, The Art Car Museum is dedicated to contemporary art. It is an exhibition forum for local, national and international arts with an emphasis on art cars, other fine arts and artists that rarely, if ever, are acknowledged by other cultural institutions. Most popular to Houstonians is the annual Art Car Parade.

Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is proud to educate the public and preserve and promote the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America’s Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present. Here, you can find workshops, youth outreach programs and exhibits about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service.

anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place

The

for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.

dedicated to educating people about the Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors’ legacy. The Holo-

The

Contemporary

Arts

Museum

caust Museum Houston has a permanent of

Houston is an institution dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Patrons of every age will appreciate the collections of work and dynamic exhibitions on display.

CAMH also offers special programs and educational opportunities. Admission is Free.

exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers,” as well as other pieces of history.

The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org The Menil Collection is an art museum that houses both permanent collection and welcomes special exhibitions. Making art

The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org

accessible to all is vital to their mission, so no admission fee is charged and all public programs are free. They hope to educate and inspire by being readily accessible to future

The Health Museum is Houston’s most

generations.

interactive science learning center and a member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind

The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org

dren’s Museum of Houston will not leave

is

5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org

A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store,

fun-filled hands on experience at the Chil-

Houston

Holocaust, remembering the 6 million

in the country. Popular exhibits include:

infant play area are all under one roof. The

Museum

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org

Mexican village, puppet show and an

Holocaust

DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion and the McGovern 4D Theater.

The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org The Museum of

Fine Arts, Houston

presents its exceptional exhibitions and installations to Houston residents and visitors alike. The Museum has numerous collections that fill the galleries year-round embracing every era of history from across the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou

As one of the most heavily attended

Bend Collection not too far away. From

museums in the United States, the Houston

2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum

Museum of Natural Science (HMNS)

of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a

seeks to enhance knowledge and delight

magnificent two new buildings.

in natural science and related subjects.

It houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permanent exhibit areas that examine astronomy, space science, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and minerals, Texas wildlife and more. www.hmns.org Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org Photos Courtesy of Children’s Museum

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg.

Houston, 77204 www.blafferartmuseum.org Blaffer Art Museum helps the community to engage in contemporary art through exhibitions, publications and public programs.

This art museum is free, and open to the public in an effort to promote participation in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.

TEXAS

Wineries

will not offer tours when it hosts any type of event, public or private. Call Haak Vineyards to verify that it will be having a tour on the Friday, Saturday or Sunday you plan to visit. www. haakwine.com

RANCHER’S DAUGHTER Rancher’s Daughter was once a boutique in Western Winery; today it’s a boutique in downtown Montgomery with its own winery. Celebrating everything Texas, the shop sells 275 varietals of wine, while the winery produces wines with names like Highway 105, Spotted Mule, and Cowgirl Blush. Wine enthusiasts and friends gather on the third Wednesday of the month for Wine Down Wednesdays that feature

THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF SOME OF THE PREMIER WINERIES NEAR HOUSTON BERNHARDT WINERY This down-home Texas winery is set in the rolling hills near Plantersville. Here, award-winning small-batch wines of classic varietals and unique blends are created, and visitors are treated to a fun tasting experience in a warm environment. But there’s much more here, too. The winery hosts many events, like the Summer Sunset Lawn Concert Series, the Vino Piazza Primavera – an artisan marketplace – weddings and other private functions. Plus, visitors can stay at The Loft Bed and Breakfast. www.bernhardtwinery.com

CORK THIS! WINERY Started by a former business executive that wished for greener grass (or vineyards), the people at Cork This! make wine fun and have fun making wine, producing wines with names like “Party on your Palate,” “Rich Urban Biker,” and “Irreconcilable Differences.” It’s a favorite place for locals and travelers alike because wine tasters are made to feel comfortable and welcome. Cork This!

Has a strong Groupies Wine Club and hosts numerous events. www.corkthiswinery.com

from Texas wildflower honey sourced from a farm on the nearby Texas gulf coast prairies, which was selected for its location far from sources that could affect the taste of the naturally flavorful and nuanced honey. www.enchantedmanormeadery.com

GRIFFIN MEADERY Griffin Meadery is located in Willis and is producing small-batch, premium quality wine and liquid gold. Meads range from a cinnamon and vanilla combo with a festive flair, to ones that taste of black current, chocolate or even jalapeno, but beware: the last one has a kick! You can also learn how to make your own mead. The legendary griffin is known as the guardian of treasure, and that’s what they’re producing here. www.griffinmeadery.com.

HAAK VINEYARDS AND WINERY Though Haak Vineyards and Winery is not on the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail, it is close to home. This is the only vineyard that

speakers, wine and music.

WHITLEY VINEYARDS AND WINE BAR Whitley Vineyards and Wine bar is located in the heart of the historic district of Montgomery and features handcrafted wines. Owner Gina Whitley used to stroll through her 1/3 acre back-yard vineyard at sunset with a glass of wine, and dream about a future as a vintner. Today, that dream is coming true. A family operation, the vineyard and wine production creates quality reds, roses, and whites. Whitley hosts regular ladies’ nights and welcomes visitors as part of the annual Antiques Festival in the historic district of Montgomery. www.whitleyvineyards.com

WILD STALLION VINEYARDS Wild Stallion Vineyards began in 2008 with a small test planting of Blanc du Bois grapes, a variety most suited to the gulf coast region. The vineyard has grown to over three acres and a range of varieties.

Both the 2014 Sweet Moscato and the 2014

produces commercial wine in Galveston

Blanc du Bois (Dry) were Southwest Wine

County, which is less than an hour from

Summit Silver Medal Winners. Located

ENCHANTED MANOR MEADERY

downtown Houston. Each $10 tour includes

near the Woodlands, The Wild Stallion

Enchanted Manor Meadery of Magnolia brews meads onsite at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Their meads are crafted

a Madeira tasting and samples of four other

Event Center hosts many events, like

wines from the vineyards. The tour times and

Sangria Saturdays, concerts and weddings.

availability dates may change as the vineyard

www.wildstallionvineyards.com

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Delicious HOUSTON’S

DINING SCENE When it comes to restaurants, Northwest Houston has one of the best in the nation, according to a new Yelp ranking. Tony’s Italian Delicatessen at 16283 Highway 105 tops the list of the website’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the US for 2017. The eatery’s menu boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods.

Marvino’s Italian Kitchen 24002 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429-7312 www.marvinositaliankitchen.com Jaxton’s Bistro 9955 Barker Cypress Rd. #104 Cypress, 77433 www.jaxtonsbistro.com Gianna Italian Kitchen 28301 249 #100, Tomball, 77375 www.giannaitaliankitchen.com Mel’s Country Café 124814 Stanolind Rd.,Tomball, 77375 www.melscountrycafe.com Adriatic Cafe Italian Grill 17402 Northwest Fwy Jersey Village, 77040 www.adriaticcafe.com Punta Cana Caribbean Restaurant 17776 Tomball Pkwy, Houston, 77064 www.puntacanahouston.com Gauchos Do Sul 126 Vintage Park Blvd, Houston, 77070 www.gauchosdosul.com Thai Chefs 6965 Barker Cypress Rd Ste D Houston, 77084 www. thaichefshouston.com Banh Mi ETC 9211 West Rd Houston, 77064 www.banhmietc.com Mint Thai Kitchen 17513 Tomball Pkwy Houston, 77064 (Willowbrook) www.mintthai.kitchen Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen 10115 Louetta Rd Ste 400 Houston, 77070 www.ambriza.com Carriage House Café 9945 Barker Cypress Rd Ste 125 Cypress, 77433 www.thecarriagehousecafe.com Pecos Grilling Company 28900 Tomball Pkwy.,Tomball, 77375 www.pecosgrillingco.com Mezzanotte Ristorante 13215 Grant Rd Ste 1200 Cypress, 77429-4094 www.mezzanotte.tv Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen 27030 Northwest Freeway Cypress, 77433 www.gringostexmex.com Season’s Harvest Cafe 17303 Shaw Rd, Cypress, 77429-1321 Nyam Nyam Cafe 15201 Mason Rd, Cypress, 77433-5954 www.nyamnyamcafe.com Locatelli’s Pizza 13215 Grant Rd, Ste 500 Cypress, 77429-4093 www.locatellis.com

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Dario’s American Bistro 14315 Cypress Rosehill Rd Cypress, 77429-1013 www.dariossteakhouse.com

Guadalajara Hacienda 27885 Interstate 45 N. The Woodlands, 77380 www.guad.com

Newk’s Eatery 25712 Northwest Freeway, Suite A Cypress, 77429 www.newks.com

Hubbell & Hudson Bistro 4526 Research Forest Drive The Woodlands, 77381 www.hubbellandhudson.com

Cypress Breakfast House 12344 Barker Cypress Rd Cypress, 77429-8359 www.cypressbreakfasthouse.com

Jasper’s 9595 Six Pines Dr, Ste 900 The Woodlands, 77380 www.jaspersthewoodlands.com

Saltgrass Steak House 23952 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429-6173 www.saltgrass.com

Landry’s Seafood 1212 Lake Robbins Drive The Woodlands, 77380 www.landrysseafood.com

CorkScrew BBQ 26608 Keith St. Spring, 77373 www.corkscrewbbw.com

McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers 17099 Walden Road Montgomery, 77356 www.mckenziesbarbeque.com

Alicias Mexican Grille 26326 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429 www.aliciasmexicangrille.com

Nick’s Fish Dive & Oyster Bar 20 Waterway Ave., Ste 105 The Woodlands, 77380 www.nicksfishdive.com

Merche 21208 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429-5975 www.mercherestaurant.com

Ocean Boullevard Bistro & Martini Bar 1200 Marina Dr, Just off Highway 105 Montgomery, 77356 www.obbistro.com

MOD Pizza-Towne Lake 9925 Barker Cypress Rd Cypress, 77433-5314 www.modpizza.com

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen 18165 Interstate 45 S. Conroe, 77385 www.pappadeaux.com

Rice and Bean Cuban Cuisine 26281 Highway 290, Suite 212 Cypress, 77429-1055

www.riceandbeanscubancuisine.net

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 6700 Woodlands Pkwy., Ste. 300 The Woodlands, 77382 www.perrysrestaurants.com

Carl’s Barbecue 21920 Northwest Fwy Cypress, 77429-3377 www.carlsbbq.com

Ransom’s Steakhouse & Saloon 300 CB Stewart Drive Montgomery, 77356 www.ransomssteakhouse.com

7 leguas 15949 Highway 105 W, Suite 66 Montgomery, 77356 www.7leguasmex.com

Robard’s Steakhouse 2301 N Millbend Drive The Woodlands, 77380 www.robardssteakhouse.com

Black Walnut Cafe 9000 New Trails Drive The Woodlands, 77381-5208 www.blackwalnutcafe.com

Thai Wok In Resturant 15917 Highway 105 W Ste F Montgomery, 77356 www.thaiwokin.com

Caffe di Fiore 10110 Woodlands Pkwy.

The Woodlands, 77382 www.caffe-di-fiore.com

The Big Sombrero 19402 Highway 105 W Montgomery, 77356 www.thebigsombrero.net

Cozy Grape Wine Bar and Bistro 14340 Liberty Street Montgomery, 77356 www.cozygrape.com

The Pizza Shack 20873 Eva St Ste G Montgomery, 77356 www.pizzashack.com

Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse 1900 Hughes Landing Blvd, Suite 400 The Woodlands, 77380-3794 www.fogodechao.com

The Republic Grille 4775 W. Panther Creek, Ste. 490 The Woodlands, 77381 www.therepublicgrille.com

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria 20 Waterway Ave Ste 100 The Woodlands, 77380-3442 www.grimaldispizzeria.com

The Toasted Yolk Cafe 2129 W Davis St, Suite c Conroe, 77304 www.thetoastedyolk.com

SHOPPING The Boardwalk Towne Lake 9945 Barker Cypress Rd. Cypress, 77433 www.boardwalktl.com The Galleria Houston 5058 Westheimer Rd. Houston, 77056 www.galleriahouston.com Houston Premium Outlets 29300 Hempstead Rd. Cypress, 77433 www.premiumoutlets.com Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir Katy, TX 77494 www.katymills.com Market Street 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands, 77380 www.marketstreet-thewoodlands.com Old Town Spring Spring Preservation League, 123-F Midway, Spring, 77373 www.oldtownspring.com Outlets at Conroe 1111 League Line Rd. Conroe, 77303 www.outletsatconroe.com Willowbrook Mall 2000 Willowbrook Mall Houston, TX 77070 www.shopwillowbrookmall.com The Woodlands Mall 1201 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands, 77380 www.thewoodlandsmall.com HHOOUUSST TOONNNNEEWWCCOOMMEERRGGUUI D I DEESS. C . COOMM

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CALENDAR of EVENTS Northwest Houston & Surrounding Area events you will not want to miss

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JANUARY

FEBRUARY

Challenge. Come join the excitement as we welcome close to 9,000 runners.

Chevron Houston Marathon

Texas Home & Garden Show

Established in 1972, the Houston

Houston’s Premier “One Stop Shopping

Marathon Committee, Inc. (HMC),

Opportunity” for all your home & garden

a Running USA Founding Member,

needs. From Windows and Doors to

annually organizes the nation’s premier

Ceilings and Floors over 700 experts,

winter marathon, half-marathon and 5K.

products, services and ideas all under

Over 250,000 participants, volunteers and

one roof. This event is one of Texas

spectators make this marathon largest

homeowners best resource for advice,

single-day sporting event in the city.

money saving tips, remodeling ideas and

raising and marketing of better livestock

www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com

landscape features needed to make a

and farm products at public fairs and

home and garden.

to promote and maintain research and

www.texashomeandgarden.com

educational functions within the livestock

Mlk Grande Parade Held in Midtown, this parade is devoted

www.thewoodlandsmarathon.com Houston Livestock Show And Rodeo™ The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ was organized for charitable, educational and scientific purposes to encourage and promote the breeding,

industry. It is the general policy of the

to promoting racial harmony through

Annual Houston Brazilian Carnaval

education and building awareness. The

Show to utilize, in the fiscal year subse-

Celebrate Carnaval in true Brazilian style,

MLK Grande Parade attracts more than

quent to which it is earned, the excess of

straight from the streets of Rio, with live

300,000 spectators with 15 professionally

drummers, 2 DJ’s, and dancers covered

its revenue over expenses for the further-

designed floats, 30 marching bands, and

in beads and feathers. This colorful

over 150 performing groups.

Houston-based bash celebrates Carnaval

www.mlkgrandeparade.org

in Houston, including the rhythms of

Mardi Gras Galveston Island Don’t miss the revelry at Mardi Gras!

Galveston! The island comes alive with extravagant parades, more than 50

Samba School Drums. www.houstonbraziliancarnaval.com

MARCH

ance of its exempt purpose, including the granting and/or funding of scholarships, educational endowments, agricultural research projects and other similar programs and the funding of related capital additions and improvements. www.rodeohouston.com

galas and festive events, bead throwing,

World’s Champion Bar-B-Que Cookoff

exhibits, live entertainment in local clubs,

You won’t want to miss the biggest

and the best Gulf Coast cuisine in the

pre-party to the world’s largest live-

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival

world. One of the most popular annual

stock show and rodeo. More than 250

It is among the top art festivals in the

events to take place in Texas, the event

teams led by barbecue aficionados

country, featuring over 200 interna-

is rich with laughter, celebration and

will compete in a traditional Texas

tional, national and regional fine artists

people watching. There is something for

cook-off. While most team tents are

displaying their original works in a wide

everyone including a beachfront carnival,

invitation-only, visitors can enjoy the

variety of mediums at The Woodlands

shopping, and nightlife featuring every-

public venues including the Miller

Waterway and in Town Green Park. The

thing from Cajun and salsa to jazz and

Lite Garden, Rockin’ Bar-B-Que

festival includes five entertainment stages,

rock and roll.

Saloon and the Chuck Wagon, where you receive a complimentary chopped

hands-on art activities and plenty of great

www.mardigrasgalveston.com

beef sandwich plate. Come enjoy

APRIL

food and beverages. www.woodlandsartsfestival.com

Taste of the Town at The Woodlands

three days of cooking, competition,

Town Center

eating and dancing!

Taking place at The Woodlands

Magnolia Historical Depot Day

www.rodeohouston.com

Live Entertainment and children’s

Waterway Marriott, Taste of the Town

activities, barbecue and other great food,

is the premier culinary event of South

The Woodlands Marathon

Montgomery County. Enjoy mouth-wa-

The Woodlands Marathon is a BOSTON

tering appetizers, entrees, desserts,

QUALIFIER and has seen will traverse

Depot Day serves as the Magnolia

pastries, and beverages from some of

the streets of Town Center and the

Historical Society’s annual fundraiser.

the area’s finest restaurants, caterers,

community on a single-loop 26.2-mile

Help support the Historic Depot building,

bakeries, deli’s and beverage companies.

pretty flat course, finishing on the scenic

the Pavilion, Dr. Ware’s Office and the

Ticket includes food, beverages and

Waterway. Participants have the oppor-

Replica of the first Magnolia Post Office.

festivities. www.tasteofthetown.org

tunity to run for charities in the Charity

www.magnoliatxhistoricalsociety.com

a car show and Live and Silent Auctions.

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LEISURE & RECREATION

Bridgeland Nature Fest

Over Texas has become Houston’s

Hunters Extravaganza

Bridgeland’s annual Nature Fest

signature annual Independence Day cele-

Taking place at NRG Park, this is the

showcases this award-winning master-

bration and attracts nationally recognized

place where hunters from across Texas

planned community’s commitment to the

recording artists as well as regional and

and beyond gather each year to get

environment and ecosystem. Highlights

local talent.

include food trucks, roaming entertainers,

ready for hunting season. Whether

www.freedomeovertexas.org

its deer hunting equipment, hunting

educational animal demos, unique crafts from artists and nature vendors, and a

Red, Hot And Blue Festival

kid’s zone with rides and activities.

Enjoy vendor booths, great food,

www.bridgeland.com

children’s activities and entertainment

MAY

on multiple stages. This event in The Woodlands culminates with one of the

Beyond The Pints – Craft Beer And

largest fireworks displays in the greater

Music Festival

Houston area.

Sample more than 40 local and national

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

craft breweries while listening to live

accessories, hunting clothing, rifles, knives, archery or any other hunting gear-hunters know they’ll find it at the Hunters Extravaganza. Plus, hunters enter great contests, see exciting attractions, meet their favorite hunting and sports celebrities and more! www.ttha.com

SEPTEMBER

music. East from locally owned and oper-

Kingwood July 4Th Festival

ated food trucks. Family friendly, with a

And Fireworks

Taste Of The World Houston

Kids Zone, retail vendors and entertain-

Celebrate in Kingwood with live music,

Food And Wine Festival

ment for all. www.beyondthepints.com

craft and food booths. Plenty of activities

The Houston World Food & Wine

for children – come out and enjoy the

Festival celebrates food, drink, music

fireworks! www.kingwood.com

and dance from around the world. The

www.towncenterevents.com

festival has a globe-trotting theme that

JUNE Wine & Food Week in The Woodlands One of America’s largest and most

invites attendees to try out a new variety

comprehensive wine and food events.

Houston World Series Of Dog Shows

This festival features celebrity chefs,

The Annual Houston World Series of

more than 500 wines, 40+ events and

Dog Shows by the American Kennel

tastings from 50 restaurants. Join more

Club is one of the finest and largest

than 10,000 food and wine fans as The

indoor dog shows in the world that

Woodlands uncorks this event. www.

attracts more than 40,000 spectators,

wineandfoodweek.com

participants and vendors.

Montgomery Wine and Music Fest

houstondogshows.com

Event to be held in the streets of Historic

Texas Music Festival Each year, the Texas Music Festival provides close to 100 young professional

AUGUST

of food and arts and enjoy an international experience. It provides a feast for the senses and reflects the multicultural diversity of Houston. www.latinolearningcenter.org

Montgomery. Discover Texas Wines, Texas Food, Texas Beer, and Great

musicians with a challenging musical

Houston International Jazz Festival

Texas Music!

environment in which to develop skills

The Houston International Jazz Festival

www.experiencemontgomery.com

in orchestral, chamber music, and solo

showcases Jazz, Rhythm and Blues,

performance. Lucky participants range

Soul and Latin Fusion. More than a

in age from junior high to adult and

dozen artists from around the world

specialize in a variety of areas. Each

will be featured.

institute is led by Moores and Shep-

www.jazzeducation.org

herd Schools of Music faculty, expert

Texas Renaissance Festival Plantersville - Based on travel-worthiness, chance to broaden horizons and the ability to introduce people to try new things and connect with others, the Texas

performers and teachers from Houston

Montgomery County Agricultural Fair

Renaissance Festival has been voted the

and throughout the world. www.uh.edu

Since 1945, Montgomery County has

best cultural festival in the country by

celebrated its agricultural traditions with

USA Today and 10Best. Enjoy magi-

this popular event. Come for toe-tapping

cians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours,

Freedom Over Texas

entertainment and feel good about

comedians, food, arts and crafts that all

Located in the newly renovated Eleanor

helping with community scholarships.

celebrate life in the 16th Century.

Tinsley Park on Buffalo Bayou, Freedom

www.mcagfair.com

www.texrenfest.com

JULY

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NORTHWEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE

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2020

Longhorn Rod Run

soft fall weather and a taste of wine.

by celebrating all things Houston,

Antique cars compete in various cate-

Stroll main street as you enjoy

including a salute to the world-acclaimed

gories for prizes in Old Town Spring.

gourmet foods and creative arts in

Texas Medical Center. The Fun begins

Stroll the streets and view these beautiful

painting, photography, clothing, jewelry

at 9am when the downtown streets come

vintage automobiles.

and crafts by talented artist.

alive with zesty marching bands, imagi-

www.oldtownspring.com

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER Home For The Holidays

native floats and colorful balloons. Bring the family.

Annual Home For The Holidays

Petfest – Old Town Spring

The local shops and businesses come alive

PetFest is a weekend event dedicated to

with the Spirit of the Season, offering a

finding homes for animals in shelters and

variety of local, unique holiday gift ideas

rescue groups. It’s a fun-filled festival of

and treasures. Holiday-makers stroll the

entertainment and education that raises

winding paths, enjoy the thousands of

money, volunteers and foster homes.

twinkling lights, hot chocolate and other

Bring your pet!

holiday lights and a visit with Santa.

www.petfestoldtownspring.com

www.oldtownspring.com

Bridgeland Annual Howloween Fest

Houston Galleria -

Watch the Canine Frisbee Disc Club,

Uptown Holiday Lighting

Splash Dogs and the popular doggie

The annual holiday tradition flips the

Children’s Festival. Entertainment

fashion show. Enjoy the many crowd-

switch on a half-million twinkling lights

spans from local community perfor-

and-canine approved activities. You and

along with music, holiday characters, and

mances to awarding-winning children’s

your pet will have a dog-gone good time.

a special appearance by Santa. Fireworks

performers, meaning you are sure to

www.bridgeland.com

grand finale. www.uptownhouston.com

enjoy the show!

Creekfest

Nutcracker Market

CreekFest is a one-day festival held in

The Houston Ballet’s major fundraiser,

northwest Houston to celebrate the

the Nutcracker Market is a shopping

arts and outdoors in the Cypress Creek

wonderland. This year’s market will

community. Highlights include a 5k fun

feature more than 325 national and inter-

run, live music, a marketplace, local

national merchants carefully selected for

artists, tasty food and much more.

their unique offerings. Look for gourmet

www.creekfesthouston.com

food, home décor, garden accessories,

In Old Town Spring Old Town Spring’s shops and restaurants come alive with spectacular displays of holiday lights, plus strolling performers, festive exhibits and family friendly activities. www.oldtownspring.com Annual Children’s Festival Fun takes center stage at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s 20th Annual

www.woodlandscenter.org

clothing, novelties and the perfect gift.

DECEMBER Jingle Bell Run Join Towne Lake for a family-friendly and festive Jingle Bell Run! The race will begin at 8:00 am and start at The New Boardwalk. Pre-race festivities begin at 7:00 am and include a DJ, Christmas

www.houstonballet.org

music, bouncy houses, hot chocolate,

October is Texas Wine Month and Old

H-E-B Holiday Parade

All racers will receive jingle bells for their

Town Spring with over 150 quaint

The Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day

shoes and a red long-sleeved t-shirt.

shops is the perfect place to enjoy the

Parade will welcome the holiday season

www.townelaketexas.com

Autumn Art and Wine Festival Old Town Spring

face painting, and pictures with Santa.

DECEMBER: CHRISTMAS IN CYPRESS www.gracesymphony.org Grace Symphony Orchestra is a unique performance ensemble that incorporates classical music, drama, dance and art into performances with an emphasis on inspiring a glorifying response to God. Join them for a heart-warming night of sing-a longs of Christmas favorites. Not to be missed! Benefits Cypress Assistance Ministries.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

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