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SPRING KLEIN EDITION
VOLUME 10, ISSUE 1 APRIL 19MAY 16, 2023
REVITALIZING KLEIN
Klein Oak High School, which rst opened in 1982, is among the rst campuses to undergo renovations funded through Klein ISD’s 2022 bond program.
HTX Whiskey Weekend returns to City Place in April
8
Community center on track for summer opening
RENDERING COURTESY KLEIN ISD
11
Klein ISD prioritizes 7 campuses from 2022 bond for initial construction
BY HANNAH BROL
community for their support of the 2022 bond, and one of our commit- ments and expectations as a board is that we continue to provide trans- parent updates to the community on the progress that we’re making with the funds that have been entrusted to us,” KISD Superintendent Jenny McGown said during the March 6 board meeting.
growth and capacity challenges through facility improvements, while Proposition B allocated $51.5 million for classroom technology. Propositions C and D—which were not approved—would have allocated $141 million to build a district events center, and $75.2 million to build a second stadium and renovate Klein Memorial Stadium, respectively. “We’re so thankful to our
Klein ISD ocials named seven campuses that will be among the rst to undergo renovations asso- ciated with the district’s 2022 bond during its March 6 board meeting. Last May, KISD voters approved two propositions totaling $895.3 million—the largest bond in district history. Proposition A allo- cated $843.8 million to address
Hot chicken eateries abound in Spring, Klein
14
CONTINUED ON 17
Residential, commercial growth booming along FM 2920 corridor BY EMILY LINCKE
SOURCES: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, U.S. CENSUS BUREAU AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY, KLEIN ISD POPULATION AND SURVEY ANALYSTS REPORTCOMMUNITY IMPACT 18% increase in annual average daily trac counts was recorded at Falvel Road and FM 2920 from 2002 to 2021. A BUSTLING COMMUNITY FM 2920 is experiencing a boom in development near Falvel Road as well as growth in both population and trac counts. 680 new housing occupancies are expected from 2020 to 2030 along Falvel Road near FM 2920. 34% population growth was seen for ZIP code 77388 from 2011 to 2021, according to the American Community Survey ve-year estimates.
Multiple construction sites line FM 2920 near the corridor’s intersection with Falvel Road in Spring, bringing new businesses and housing options to the area, with more projects on the way. In unincorporated Harris County, development frequently arrives in urries, said Bobby Lieb, president and CEO of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce. “Those vacant parcels become more attractive because you already have an established population around them,” Lieb said. “So the desire for amenities by the existing population attracts that commercial growth.” Dhanani Private Equity Group—a real estate development rm based in Houston—was drawn to the intersection of FM 2920 and Falvel Road for its new CONTINUED ON 19
Spring-area sportsplex cultivates community
16
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SPRING KLEIN EDITION • APRIL 2023
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THIS ISSUE
ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 35+ localized editions across Texas to more than 2.5 million residential mailboxes. MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Kim Giannetti EDITOR Hannah Brol REPORTERS Wesley Gardner, Emily Lincke GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ronald Winters ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Lydia Lee METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Jason Culpepper MANAGING EDITOR Matt Stephens COPY EDITOR Adrian Gandara ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Ethan Pham CONTACT US 16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 2814696181 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES sklnews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING sklads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising EMAIL NEWSLETTERS communityimpact.com/newsletter SUPPORT US Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH
FROM KIM: Whenever I tell someone I work for Community Impact, one of the most common responses I get is “I love seeing what new restaurants are opening!” Across the Spring and Klein area, you may have noticed several hot chicken eateries that have opened up over the last few years. To learn more about these local oerings, check out our Hot Chicken Guide on Pages 14-15. For your reference, you’ll also nd the heat levels for each restaurant’s chicken ranging from the least amount of spice to the spiciest. Enjoy! Kim Giannetti, GENERAL MANAGER
FROM HANNAH: Roughly 10 months after Klein ISD voters approved an $895.3 million bond package, district leaders announced in March which seven campuses will be the rst to undergo construction. As of late March, renovation projects for Klein Collins, Klein Cain and Klein Oak high schools; Kleb, Doerre and Hildebrandt intermediate schools; and Northampton Elementary School had gone out for bid with anticipated completion dates by August 2024. To learn more about what changes each of these campuses will undergo, see our front-page story, which continues on Page 17. Hannah Brol, EDITOR
"Our story is just beginning. " JOHN GARRETT, COMMUNITY IMPACT CEO & FOUNDER, AS QUOTED BY TEXAS MONTHLY
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SPRING KLEIN EDITION • APRIL 2023
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
with a variety of avor options that change on a weekly basis. Takeout, curbside and delivery services at the new Spring location began March 22. 281-631-5819. www.crumbl.com/txchampions 4 Klein TX Nutrition celebrated its grand opening March 18 at 18478 Kuykendahl Road, Spring. The business oers smoothies, energy teas and protein coee as well as protein baked goods, such as doughnuts. 832-730-8202. www.facebook.com/kleintxnutrition 5 Plus Size Bridal Boutique celebrated its grand opening April 7-9 at 13700 Veterans Memorial Drive, Ste. 455, Houston. The boutique oers formalwear in sizes 0-30 for brides, bridesmaids, and mothers of the bride or groom as well as for special occasions such as prom and homecoming. 832-445-8999. www.plussizebridalboutique.com 6 Blue Lotus Beauty & Spa celebrated its grand opening March 23 at 5505 FM 1960 W., Ste. G, Houston. The state- of-the-art medical spa oers services including Botox, llers, laser skin resurfacing, IV therapy and B12 shots as well as noninvasive treatments, such as microneedling, skin rejuvenation and 7 Reality Escape opened Feb. 11 at 11709 Boudreaux Road, Ste. 930, Tomball. According to owner Melissa Gabriel, Reality Escape features two escape rooms: 1850s Gold rush and ‘90s Take Back. Gabriel said the business is also in the process of creating a party room that will include a 30-minute game to unlock presents. 346-367-3057. www.realityescaperoom.com 8 Johnson Fitness & Wellness o¤cials announced the opening of a new location at 17535 Hwy. 249, Houston, via a news release March 10. The business oers an assortment of premium tness and wellness equipment with brands that include Matrix Fitness, Vision Fitness and Horizon Fitness. 281-955-5727. www.johnsontness.com 9 G by Guess opened Feb. 9 at Willowbrook Mall, located at 2000 Willowbrook Mall, Houston. The clothing, shoe and accessory store is part of global brand Guess and sells looks for men, facials. 346-666-1489. www.bluelobeauty.com
SPRINGWOODS VILLAGE PKWY.
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N TM; © 2023 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
NOW OPEN 1 Houston TX Hot Chicken celebrated its grand opening March 18 at 10111 Louetta Road, Ste. 800, Houston. The eatery of- fers chicken sandwiches and tenders with spice levels ranging from “No Spice” to
“Houston We Have a Problem.” Additional menu items include fries, salads, waes, cookies and milkshakes. 713-597-7239. www.hhc.ooo 2 Iza Robata opened Feb. 25 at 15556 Cutten Road, Ste. 500, Houston. The restaurant oers a variety of Japanese
cuisine, including poke bowls, ramen, bao and hibachi. 832-559-8898. www.izarobatatx.com/iza-robata-spring 3 Crumbl Cookies celebrated its grand opening March 17 at 8675 Spring Cypress Road, Ste. D, Spring. The business oers a rotating selection of fresh-baked cookies
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16
MiMi J’s Kitchen
The Mind Connection
Zara’s Mediterranean Cuisine in Spring o ers authentic Greek staples, such as falafel, gyros, chicken shawarma and meat moussaka, as well as fusion dishes.
MIMI J’S KITCHEN
COURTESY THE MIND CONNECTION
COURTESY ZARA’S MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE
women and children. www.guessfactory.com
The Utah-based cookie store will oer layered and lled 4-ounce cookies in four classic avors and four avors that change weekly. Gluten-free options will also be available. https://dirtydoughcookies.com 15 Gissel Skin Care secured a lease at 14505 Torrey Chase Blvd., Ste. 107, Houston, according to a Feb. 16 news release from real estate rm Finial Group. Gissel Skin Care oers health and beauty services, such as facials and acne treatments. https://gisselskincare.square.site RELOCATIONS 16 The Mind Connection opened at its new location Jan. 14, according to owner Janelle Martin. Martin and her daughter and business partner Regan Steinert oer addiction counseling, Iasis microcurrent neurofeedback therapy and brain-spotting services to treat a variety of mental health issues. Previously located in Cypress, The Mind Connection is now located at 21638 Hwy. 249, Ste. A, Houston. Martin and Steinert are both licensed chemical dependency counselor interns. 832-492-8518. www.mindconnection.org 17 La Savonnerie Divine will be moving within Willowbrook Mall—2000 Willowbrook Mall, Houston—according to mall management. The bath boutique was previously located in Space 1226 and will move to Space 1202. A reopening date for La Savonnerie Divine in its new location had not been announced as of press time. The store sells decorative soaps, body washes, bath bombs and skin
FEATURED IMPACT NOW OPEN Zara’s Mediterranean Cuisine celebrated the grand opening of its second Spring-area location March 20. Located at 9001 Louetta Road, Ste. B, Spring, Zara’s oers authentic Mediterranean dishes, such as falafel, gyros, chicken shawarma and meat moussaka. Fusion dishes are also on the menu, such as the Falafun Burger, which features a falafel patty, hummus spread, fresh lettuce and tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce. ANNIVERSARIES 18 Emler Swim School of Vintage Park celebrated its fth anniversary April 8. Located at 106 Vintage Park Blvd., Ste. B, Houston, Emler Swim School of Vintage Park opened in April 2018 and oers swim classes for both children and adults in a heated pool. The venue can also be booked for private pool parties. 346-260-3500. www.emlerswimschool.com/location/ houston-vintage-park Cypress-Woodlands Junior Forum celebrated 40 years of volunteer service in early 2023. According to a Feb. 14 news release, this organization has provided more than $1 million scholarships to graduating senior girls in addition to volunteering through 22 service programs in the North Houston area including The Woodlands, Spring and Cypress. The CWJF’s rst 11 founding members
10 7th Made Studios opened Jan. 1 at 22131 Rothwood Road, Ste. 2C1, Spring. The business provides a studio home for freelance photographers and content creators as well as a exible meeting space for local businesses. O¤cials noted a commercial-grade backdrop system and additional industry equipment are included with the rental of the space. 7th Made Studios plans on adding a cyc wall and podcast studio in the future. www.7thmadestudios.com 11 Texas Regional Bank hosted a soft opening March 20 at 10635 Louetta Road, Houston. Texas Regional Bank specializes in personal and business banking products, mortgages, and trust and wealth management. 713-424-9915. www.texasregionalbank.com COMING SOON 12 Hero’s Bar & Grill is planning to open in April at 3301 Louetta Road, Ste. 204, Spring. Owned by Alicia and Steve Phillips and Daniel Mares, the sports bar and grill aims to honor military veterans and rst responders. 346-225-5485. www.facebook.com/herosbarandgrilltx 13 4Ever Young is scheduled to open in mid- to late April at 6535 Grand Parkway, Ste. 215, Spring. Owned by Robert and Leah Lowry, the vitality center will oer medical and cosmetic treatments ranging from Botox and dermal llers to medically assisted weight loss and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. 832-585-8008. https://4everyoungantiaging.com 14 Dirty Dough Cookies will open in June at 5921 FM 2920, Ste. F, Spring, franchisee John Gilleland said March 9.
The eatery’s original restaurant is located at 415 Rayford Road, Spring. 346-336-6963. www.zarasmediterraneankitchen.com
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recognized a need for women’s service and launched an organization that now has over 300 active and supporting members. These members follow the principle of “making a dierence in the lives of children, families, and seniors through compassionate service.” 281-379-1391. www.cwjuniorforum.org IN THE NEWS 19 MiMi J’s Kitchen closed its physical storefront at 9337 Spring Cypress Road, Ste. G1, Spring, on Feb. 28. However, Owner Jacque Guinn said customers will still be able to enjoy MiMi J’s meals and desserts via curbside pickup or delivery as the business has shifted to operating out of its commercial kitchen. MiMi J’s oers a variety of prepared meals and gourmet desserts for both families and individuals to enjoy at home with little prep. 832-534-1104. www.mimijskitchen.com
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SPRING KLEIN EDITION • APRIL 2023
TODO LIST
April & May events
COMPILED BY HANNAH BROL
HTX WHISKEY WEEKEND
the American Cancer Society. This year’s movie-themed event will feature music, food, a silent auction, children’s activities and a craft show. Noon-8 p.m. Free. Klein Multipurpose Center, 7500 FM 2920, Spring. cherie27@aol.com. www.relayforlife.org/northwesttx MAY 01 GOLF FOR GOOD Spend a day at the golf course while supporting Spring-based nonprot Kailee Mills Foundation at the fourth annual Drive to Save Lives charity golf tournament. The event will span two courses and include breakfast, lunch, a bloody mary bar, silent and live auctions, and raes. 7 a.m. (check-in begins), 9 a.m. (shotgun start). $250 (single golfer). Golf Club of Houston, 5860 Wilson Road, Humble. www.kaileemillsfoundation.org 04 JOIN IN A PRAYER WALK In celebration of the National Day of Prayer, Spring Interfaith Council is sponsoring a progressive prayer walk during which participants will walk through the Cypress Creek Cultural District while stopping at prayer stations sponsored by various local faith communities along the way. 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Cypress Creek Christian Church,
6823 Cypresswood Drive, Spring. www.springinterfaith.org 09 LISTEN TO LIVE MUSIC Flautist Matthew Roitstein will perform as part of the Cypress Creek Foundation for the Arts and Community Enrichment’s Promenade Series. 3 p.m. $10-$15. The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive, Spring. 281-440-4850. www.cypresscreekface.org 11 SUPPORT THE ARTS Cypress Creek FACE will host its 25th annual Pizzazz with Jazz Luncheon honoring Carolyn Spillane. Proceeds from the event will benet the Focus on Education scholarship fund, as well as Cypress Creek FACE’s free children’s series and summer camp program. 11 a.m. $100. Shirley Acres, 217 Woerner Road, Houston. 281-440-4850. www.cypresscreekface.org 13 MEET LOCAL AUTHORS In celebration of its ninth anniversary, Coppereld’s Books will host its ninth annual Spring Author Fair where attendees can meet local indie writers and artists. The event will also include complimentary refreshments, giveaways and rae prizes. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Coppereld’s Books, 8220 Louetta Road, Ste. 106, Spring. 832-761-5559. www.coppereldsbooks.net
CITY PLACE PLAZA & PARK This annual event features two days of whiskey-centric activities. 1250 Lake Plaza Drive, Spring www.cityplacenow.com APRIL 28 Chef’s Table, 6 p.m. $185 29 Whiskey 101, 11 a.m.-noon. $35 29 A Taste of City Place, noon-6 p.m. $85 29 A Perfect Pour Cocktail Class: Light & Refreshing, 1-2 p.m. $35 29 A Perfect Pour Cocktail Class: Stirred & Boozy, 3-4 p.m. $35 29 Whiskey Under the Stars, 6-10 p.m. $25 LIVE THEATER PLAYHOUSE 1960 6814 Gant Road, Houston 281-587-8243 www.playhouse1960.com April 29May 7 “Once Upon a Mattress, Youth Edition.” 3 p.m. (April 29-30 and May 6-7), 8 p.m. (April 29 and May 6). $12-$15.
MAY 06
RUN FOR FUN KLEIN MEMORIAL STADIUM
APRIL 22 SUPPORT THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY Join Relay For Life of Northwest Harris County at a community walk supporting grants and student-led innovation challenges in Klein ISD. 7:30 a.m. (5K run/walk), 8:45 a.m. (kids fun run). $25-$40 (5K run/walk), $15- $20 (kids fun run). Klein Memorial Stadium, 16715 Stuebner Airline Road, Spring. 832-249-4754. www.thekef.org/funrun (Courtesy Klein Education Foundation) The fth annual Klein Education Foundation Fun Run will include a 5K run/walk and a kids fun run. Proceeds from the event will benet teacher
Find more or submit Spring and Klein events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
CREEKSIDE FOREST DR.
TRANSPORTATION UPDATES
COMPILED BY HANNAH BROL
UPCOMING PROJECTS 3 Spring Stuebner Road expansion Harris County Precinct 3 is studying an $8.1 million project that would expand Spring Stuebner Road from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane concrete road from west of Leitner Lane to the Grand Parkway. Existing drainage and trac signals will also be improved and added as needed. Construction on this project is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2024 and wrap up by the fourth quarter of 2025. Timeline: fourth quarter 2024-fourth quarter 2025 Cost: $8.1 million Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3 4 Boudreaux Road widening Harris County Precinct 3 is studying an $11.9 million project to expand Boudreaux Road to a four-lane concrete pavement section between Old Boudreaux Lane and Gleannloch Forest Drive at the Grand Parkway. The project would also include trac signal and drainage improvements and additions as needed. A construction timeline had not been announced for this project as of press time. Timeline: TBD Cost: $11.9 million Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3
March 7. Cypress Oaks Drive between the I-45 southbound frontage road and Enchanted Oaks Drive remains closed, and motorists are encouraged to continue detouring via West North Hill Drive. As previously reported by Community Impact , the project’s cost has increased from $6.7 million to $8.6 million due to increased material costs as well as costs to expedite the project to be completed by summer 2023 instead of March 2024. Timeline: March 2022-summer 2023 Cost: $8.6 million Funding source: TxDOT 2 Spring Cypress Road, Ella Boulevard intersection improvements In early April, Harris County Precinct 3 began construction on a project to improve trac operations at the intersection of Spring Cypress Road and Ella Boulevard by increasing safety and car capacity through the intersection. The project will include the installation of a westbound right-turn lane, upgrading the existing trac signal and expanding the existing left-turn lanes. Motorists will notice temporary lane closures throughout construction. Timeline: April-June 2023 Cost: $830,000 Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3
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ONGOING PROJECTS 1 I-45 bridge replacement Work is underway on a project to replace the I-45 southbound frontage road bridge over Cypress Creek, which has been closed since March 2022
due to safety concerns. According to Bambi Hall, a public information ocer for the Texas Department of Transportation, one lane of the bridge opened to trac on March 2 followed by the remaining two bridge lanes and the I-45 southbound exit to FM 1960 on
ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF APRIL 3. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT SKLNEWSCOMMUNITYIMPACT.COM.
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SPRING KLEIN EDITION • APRIL 2023
PARKS & RECREATION Bridgestone Municipal Utility District breaks ground on new $20M park
BY EMILY LINCKE
parks of that scale anywhere in the area,” Bradley said. Funding for the project will come from the MUD’s general operating fund. Bradley said the project was originally estimated to cost $15 million, but the current project estimate is around $20 million due to ination and ongoing supply chain issues. Bridgestone MUD Treasurer Martha Velazquez said although she loves the idea of a park, she has nancial concerns about the project because the MUD has $100 million in debt. “There’s a time and place for mas- sive projects like that,” Velazquez said. To fund future park projects, Bridgestone MUD will be holding an election on May 6 for a $45 million parks bond. If approved, the bond will also fund detention basin improvements and walking trails. The MUD serves neighborhoods north of Louetta Road and south of the Grand Parkway in Spring. District ocials noted the park will be open to the public upon completion.
PARK PLANS In late 2024 or early 2025, the Bridgestone Municipal Utility District plans to complete a park near the intersection of Rhodes and Kuykendahl roads.
The Bridgestone Municipal Utility District broke ground March 28 on a $20 million park, according to Megan Bradley, Bridgestone MUD’s communications consultant and Triton Consulting Group president. The park, which is slated for completion in late 2024 or early 2025, will span an estimated 14 acres and be located near the MUD’s administrative building at 19720 Kuykendahl Road, Spring. Bradley said the park will feature multiple children’s play areas for a variety of age ranges, a pavilion and native plants. The park will also be home to interactive play areas designed for children with disabilities and water conservation features, such as rain gardens and recycled- water amenities. “[The directors] feel like it’s going to add signicant benet and value to ... the Bridgestone community, but also the neighboring districts, because at this point, there aren’t any
Existing
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Trails
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Parking lot MUD building Detention pond Boardwalk
Dog parks Amenity pond Play structures Event lawn
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Estimated size: 14 acres Estimated cost: $20 million
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Construction timeline: March 28-late 2024/ early 2025
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SOURCES: BRIDGESTONE MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT, FOUR AND ONE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE COMMUNITY IMPACT
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DEVELOPMENT Harris County Precinct 3 eyes late May, early June opening for Spring community center
STUEBNER AIRLINE RD.
BY EMILY LINCKE
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space for the Cypress Creek Christian Church and Community Center, which still operates today. The gym and annex buildings closed in 2017 following ooding during Hurricane Harvey and were later purchased by Precinct 4 in 2018. The project was originally slated to open in 2021, but construction stalled for about two years before resuming in November 2021, as previously reported by Community Impact . Supply shortages during the coronavirus pandemic delayed the project as well as new county and federal regulations for developing in ood-prone areas. Peng noted ongoing supply chain issues have also aected delivery times for some of the electrical components needed for the project. “Our project architect, contractor, as well as the Harris County Engineering Department, have worked together to nd alternate solutions through the project to keep the schedule as close as possible,” Peng said. As the project was a “lump sum project,” Peng said ination did not impact construction. As of press time, a grand opening date had not been set for the community center.
Following multiple delays due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Cypress Creek Cultural District’s new community center is expected to open in late May or early June, according to a spokesperson for Harris County Precinct 3. Construction on the 24,500-square-foot George H.W. Bush Community Center began in November 2019. Upon completion, the $5.5 million facility will feature a grand hall, a kitchen, classrooms, and multiple gathering spaces for local and civic groups to meet. After Harris County’s precincts were redistricted in late 2021, Precinct 3 took over the project from Precinct 4 in early 2022. The community center’s design was then updated by Precinct 3, according to Jennie Peng, senior communications specialist for Precinct 3. “The oor plan was adjusted to expand public access to the building and provide more program opportunities,” Peng said. “In addition, we adjusted various nishes and aesthetic components as well.” As previously reported by Community Impact , the space previously served as a gym and annex
The center will feature a grand hall and a kitchen. (Rendering courtesy Harris County Precinct 3) COMMUNITY CENTER COMING SOON The George H.W. Bush Community Center is expected to open to the community in either late May or early June.
$5.5M is the anticipated total cost for the George H.W. Bush Community Center in the Cypress Creek Cultural District. 24,500 square feet will be the expanse of the center once completed. 2 years of construction time was lost on this project due to the coronavirus pandemic, county ocials said. 1-2 months remain until the center is expected to open.
SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY PRECINCT 3COMMUNITY IMPACT
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SPRING KLEIN EDITION • APRIL 2023
AT THE CAPITOL
News from the 88th legislative session
Local legislator files bill for the creation of the Cypress Creek Drainage Improvement District
NEXT STEPS A bill proposing the creation of the Cypress Creek Drainage Improvement District has been led in the state Legislature, but more action is needed before the bill can become law.
BY EMILY LINCKE
May 2022: The Cypress Creek Flooding Task Force proposes a drainage improvement district to help mitigate ooding in the watershed. Jan. 10, 2023: The 88th Texas Legislature convenes. March 30: State Rep. Sam Harless, R-Spring, les House Bill 5334 proposing the creation of the Cypress Creek Drainage Improvement District. June: If approved by the Legislature, the bill will go before Gov. Greg Abbott for consideration. Sept. 1: If approved by Abbott, HB 5334 will take eect. Sept. 1, 2027: The temporary board of directors has until this date to call for an election for a permanent board and to uphold the creation of the drainage improvement district.
authority to impose taxes or issue bonds,” reads an April 5 newsletter from Harless’ oce. Those named to the proposed district’s temporary board of directors are also members of the Cypress Creek Flooding Task Force: Joe Myers and Mark Adam, who serve as the president and vice president of the Cypress Creek Flood Control Coalition, respectively; Barbara Schlattman, chair of the Green Medians Project; and Calvin Cobb and Clara Lewis. For HB 5334 to be passed in the ongoing legislative session, two- thirds approval of the House of Representatives and the Senate is needed. According to Harless’ oce, the bill was sent to the Natural Resources Committee on April 4, and a hearing will soon follow. The regular 88th legislative session will end May 29.
Creek Flooding Task Force initially proposed the creation of a drainage improvement district in May to help mitigate ooding in the Cypress Creek watershed. The watershed—which largely covers unincorporated communities such as Spring, Klein and Cypress— has a history of ooding. During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, 9,450 homes ooded within the watershed, according to the Harris County Flood Control District. According to HB 5334, the drainage improvement district’s boundaries would run the area of the Cypress Creek watershed, except for areas falling within the cities of Waller and Prairie View. The district would not have the powers of eminent domain, to impose a tax or to issue bonds. “Our commitment to pursuing this eort has always been conditional in that the district would not have the
A bill proposing the creation of the Cypress Creek Drainage Improvement District has been led in the 88th Texas Legislature and would take eect Sept. 1, if approved. State Rep. Sam Harless, RSpring, led House Bill 5334 on March 30, according to the Texas Legislature’s website. If approved in the ongoing 88th legislative session, the bill would create a board of ve temporary directors and require an election to be held before Sept. 1, 2027. The election would select ve permanent directors and conrm the creation of the district. To hold an election for a permanent board, the temporary directors must get the approval of each municipal utility district falling within the district’s boundaries. As previously reported by Community Impact , the Cypress
SOURCES: CYPRESS CREEK FLOODING TASK FORCE, TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE, OFFICE OF STATE REP. SAM HARLESSCOMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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DINING FEATURE
BY EMILY LINCKE
2
3 DISHES TO TRY
1
Pabellon Criollo ($13.50): Beans, rice, fried plantains and shredded beef comprise this dish.
COURTESY AREPA XPRESS
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El Zuliano ($13.50): A fried plantain sandwich, called Patacon, is stu ed with avocado, tomato, cheese and shredded beef. The meal includes fries and a drink.
COURTESY AREPA XPRESS
La Rumbera Arepa ($5.70): A maize- dough bread is toasted and stu ed with cheddar cheese and roasted pork.
Arepa Xpress Mother-daughter duo serve homemade Venezuelan cuisine out of Spring-area eatery M aking fresh and authen- tic food with healthy ingredients is a big priority for Arepa Xpress, according to co-owner Maria Ordonez. are always looking for ways to keep improving the food, Ordonez said. “We try to cook our meat with
COURTESY AREPA XPRESS
“WE HAVE A LOT OF CUSTOMERS THAT REALLY LOVE OUR FOOD, BUT STILL, I THINK WE CAN GET MORE SUPPORT.” MARIA ORDONEZ, AREPA XPRESS COOWNER
a lot of vegetables,” Ordonez said. “Even if people don’t see the vegetables, they have a lot of vegetables. … We try to make it healthy.” The mother-daughter duo had never owned a restaurant before, but Ordonez said she always wanted to, and her mother loves to cook. Multiple family members work at the restaurant with them. Back when they rst bought the restaurant, Venezuelan cuisine was not very common in Spring, Ordonez said. Now, there is a larger Venezuelan community in the area who frequent Arepa Xpress. One challenge for the restaurant has been attracting customers who may not be familiar with Venezuelan food. “Sometimes they don’t want to try it just because they think, ‘Oh, no, that’s gonna be bad’ or ‘I don’t know what they sell,’” she said. Going forward, Ordonez said she hopes more locals will give their restaurant a chance. “We have a lot of customers that really love our food, but still, I think we can get more support,” Ordonez said.
“If you order a shredded beef empanada, it’s from scratch,” Ordonez said. “It’s not like we take it out of the freezer and we go and fry it. No. We just make it there. So, usually there’s a wait time. … When you actually eat an empanada made from scratch, it’s something dierent.” Arepa Xpress serves Venezuelan cuisine including its namesake, arepas, which are corn-dough patties stued with cheese, veggies or meat. Also on the menu are empanadas—fried stued corn patties—and patacon, which is a sandwich made with fried plantains. A top seller is the shredded beef empanada, Ordonez said. “Our shredded beef is queen here,” she said. “Everybody loves it. It’s a must-have.” Ordonez and her mother, Josefa Scott, purchased the location from its previous owners in September 2015. They revamped the restaurant’s branding and menu with the help of Scott’s sister. Arepa Xpress’ menu features family recipes, but they
EMILY LINCKECOMMUNITY IMPACT
COURTESY AREPA XPRESS
Maria Ordonez, left, bought Arepa Xpress in September 2015 with her mother, and co-owner, Josefa Scott, right.
Jerry Coker 713-224-3426 ¡Hablamos Español!
Limitations apply. See geico.com for more details. GEICO & affiliates. Washington, DC 20076. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2022. © 2022 GEICO. 21_633312129
Arepa Xpress 4334 FM 2920, Ste. 170, Spring 713-389-5930 www.arepaxpress.com Hours: Mon.-Thu. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jerry Coker 713-224-3426 ¡Hablamos Españo
Jerry Coker 713-224-3426 ¡Hablamos Español! Limitations apply. See geico.com for more details. GEICO & affiliates. 20076. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2022. © 2022 GEICO. 21_63331212 Limitations apply. See geico.com for more details. DC 20076. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2022. Jerry Coker 713-224-3426 ¡Hablamos Español! apply. See geico.com for more details. GEICO & affiliates. Washington 20076. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2022. © 2022 GEICO. 21_633312129 Jerry Coker 713-224-3426 ¡Hablamos Español! See geico.com for more details. GEICO & affiliates. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2022. © 2022 GEICO. Jerry Coker 713-224-3426 ¡Hablamos Español! apply. See geico.com for more details. GEICO & GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2022. © 2022 GEICO. Limitations apply. See geico.com for more details. GEICO & affiliates. Washington, DC 20076. GEICO Gecko image 1999- 2022. 2022 GEICO. 21_633312129 more details. GEICO & affiliates. Washington, 1999-2022. © 2022 GEICO. 21_633312129 more details. GEICO & affiliates. Washington, 1999-2022. © 2022 GEICO. 21_633312129
Jerry Coker 713-224-3426 ¡Hablamos Español! Coker 713-224-3426 ¡Hablamos Español!
P R I N G S T U E
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SPRING KLEIN EDITION • APRIL 2023
GUIDE
Hot Chicken Guide 2023
Hot chicken restaurants in Spring & Klein
Guide 2023 Hot Chicken
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1
4
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2
S P R I N G S T U E B N E R R D .
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2920
99 TOLL
COURTESY CLUTCH CITY CLUCKERS
Tumble 22
Houston TX Hot Chicken
Over the past three years, at least eight hot chicken joints have opened in the Spring and Klein area, according to previous Community Impact coverage. To learn more about each of these restaurants, check out our Hot Chicken Guide to Spring & Klein. This list is not comprehensive.
Heat levels: listed in order from least amount of spice to spiciest
COURTESY TUMBLE 22
COURTESY HOUSTON TX HOT CHICKEN
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Opened: March 18 Hours: Sun.-Thu. 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-midnight 5 Main Bird Hot Chicken Heat levels: No Spice, Mild, Medium, Hot, Extra Hot, Cluck It 7316 Louetta Road, Ste. B303, Spring 713 739 8898 www.facebook.com/mainbirdhotchicken Opened: September Hours: Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-4 a.m. 6 Nash Up Hot Chicken Heat levels: No Heat, Mild, Medium,
Opened: Dec. 2, 2020 Hours: Sun.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. 8 Urban Bird Hot Chicken Heat levels: Country, Tennessee BBQ, Mild, Nashville Hot, Xtra Hot, Fire in the Hole 2162 Spring Stuebner Road, Ste. 180, Spring 346 478 0730 www.urbanbirdhotchicken.com Opened: Jan. 3 Hours: Sun.-Thu. 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
Hot, Damn Hot, Burning Hot, Kick It Up, Nuclear 14002 Bammel N. Houston Road, Houston 281 781 8610 www.nashuphotchicken.com Opened: August Hours: Sun.-Thu. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 7 Tumble 22 Heat levels: Wimpy, Hot, Mo’ Hot, Dang Hot, Cluckin’ Hot, Stupid Hot 10723 Louetta Road, Houston 281 547 6300 www.tumble22.com
20740 Kuykendahl Road, Spring 346 380 4544 www.daveshotchicken.com/ spring-tx-kuykendahl-rd Opened: Nov. 25 Hours: Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri.-Sun. 11 a.m.-midnight 4 Houston TX Hot Chicken Heat levels: No Spice, Honey Butter, Mild, Medium, Spicy, Lifto, Houston We Have a Problem 10111 Louetta Road, Ste. 800, Houston
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COMPILED BY HANNAH BROL & EMILY LINCKE
2 The Cookshack Heat levels: Not Hot, Mild, Medium, Texas Hot, Adios My Friend 21640 Kuykendahl Road, Spring 281 984 1385 www.thecookshack.com Opened: July 4 Hours: Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 3 Dave’s Hot Chicken Heat levels: No Spice, Lite Mild, Mild, Medium, Hot, Extra Hot, Reaper
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1 Clutch City Cluckers Heat levels: No Spice, Mild, Medium Hot, Hot, Extra Hot, Cluck It Like It’s Hot 6730 Louetta Road, Spring 832 276 9788 www.clutchcitycluckers.com Opened: Oct. 1 Hours: Sun.-Thu. 11 a.m.-2 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-3 a.m.
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1960
713 597 7239 www.hhc.ooo
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SPRING STUEBNER 6603 Spring Stuebner Rd (281) 288-0239
NORTH LOUETTA 1614 Louetta (281) 350-1198 KUYKENDAHL 13313 Kuykendahl (281) 873-5220
LOUETTA 7314 Louetta (281) 370-1986
WILLOWBROOK 6927 FM 1960 W (281) 580-1734
BUSINESS FEATURE Houston Premier Sportsplex Athletic facility cultivates community of players in Spring H ouston Premier Sportsplex is a rink with many purposes, o ering space for athletes to practice inline hockey, indoor soccer, lacrosse, dodgeball and kickball. The indoor facility hosts lessons, events and tournaments for a variety of ages and skill sets, fostering a close-knit community of sports lovers, owner Joseph Catalano said. “We have a very … familial bond with all the players here, and you’ll notice that as people come in. Everybody’s super happy to be here,” he said. Catalano, who played inline hockey and whose son grew up playing at Houston Premier Sportsplex, had been involved with the business for 11 years prior to acquiring it in February 2022. The space is important for the local community, especially the children, who frequent the facility, Catalano said. Multiple adult leagues play at the center and youth lessons are o ered for ages 6-14. “For us, growing a youth league keeps kids o the streets and ... we consider this a safe space, and I think athleticism for children is important,” Catalano said. The sports o ered at Houston Premier Sportsplex teach children important life skills like teamwork, said Ray Lamborn, director of the sportsplex’s youth program. To help players get started, spon- sors sometimes donate equipment. “There’s a little bit of an upfront cost to get going with the equipment, and we don’t want that to be a barrier,” Lamborn said. Catalano said he took over the sportsplex to keep it from closing, and a little over one year later, he already has hopes of expanding. He said he aspires to open a larger facility with a restaurant, pickleball, a women’s league and more youth teams. BY EMILY LINCKE
Located in Spring, Houston Premier Sportsplex hosts multiple adult inline hockey leagues, which play other teams from across the state. (Photos by Emily Lincke/Community Impact)
HOCKEY 101 Inline hockey is one of the many sports played at Houston Premier Sportsplex, and although the sport is similar to ice hockey, there are notable dierences.
Ice hockey: • Played on an ice rink • Players wear ice skates • A at rubber puck is used • Six players per team maximum allowed
VS
Roller/inline hockey: • Played on a smooth oor • Players wear wheeled skates • A plastic puck with raised points is used • Five players per team maximum allowed
Joseph Catalano (right) owns Houston Premier Sportsplex along with Ray Lamborn (left), who directs the business’s youth program.
SOURCES: HOUSTON PREMIER SPORTSPLEX, UNITED STATES OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC COMMITTEECOMMUNITY IMPACT
BARREN SPRINGS DR.
Houston Premier Sportsplex 221 Barren Springs Drive, Houston 832-767-5589 www.houstonpremiersportsplex.com Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-11 p.m.
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