The Woodlands Edition | December 2025

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

The Woodlands Edition VOLUME 15, ISSUE 4 DEC. 19, 2025JAN. 22, 2026

2025 Higher Education Guide

Roadway plans adapt to regional growth

Projects near completion on FM 1488 corridor West of I45

Bond funds aimed at developing region East of I45

bond which was approved by voters, are slated to take shape in 2026 to keep trac circulating the borders of The Woodlands area near FM 2978 and a portion of Kuykendahl Road.

up this year. Meanwhile, ocials in Precinct 3 are planning for a set of road bond projects around the Grand Parkway to ease travel in the area developing east of I-45. In addition, county projects further west in Precinct 2 were funded by the 2025 May road

BY ATIRIKTA KUMAR

Several Texas Department of Transportation projects designed to reduce congestion and improve safety on several thoroughfares west of I-45 in south Montgomery County are set to wrap

CONTINUED ON 36

1488

Work on a project to add raised medians to FM 1488 is being completed north of The Woodlands. (Jamaal Ellis/Community Impact)

Spreading Warmth Across The Woodlands

This season, The Kink Team is grateful to celebrate another wonderful year alongside an incredible community. We recently partnered with Interfaith of The Woodlan ds for our annual Pie Drive , spreading a little sweetness to local families. Next up is our Warm Coats, Warm Heart s event, where we’ll be collecting coats to help keep our neighbors warm this winter.

Thank you for being part of a community that continues to show up, give back, and make The Woodlands a kinder place. Don’t settle for less than the best. Let’s get you moving - start your journey today at thekinkteam.com or call (281) 300-4714.

WARM COATS, WARM HEARTS The Kink Team is excited to announce our Annual Warm Coats, Warm Hearts Donation Drive. At partnering locations, from December 15th - January 5th , you can drop off coats, scarves, new pajamas, and more. Visit thekinkteam.com or follow our socials @thekinkteam to learn more!

DIANEKINK@THEKINKTEAM.COM | 281-300-4714

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PLUMBING & AIR

HOME SERVICES Because nothing derails December faster than a cold house or a clogged drain.

Holiday cooking and extra guests put major strain on kitchen and bathroom drains. Clear them before they turn into a flooding, mid-dinner crisis. 69 DRAIN CLEAN $

AVINGS CLUB $

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

The Year’s

Best Move SPECIAL YEAR-END PRICING & INCENTIVES ON MOVE-IN READY HOMES!

With an incredible selection of home designs from the area’s premier builders, plus special year-end pricing & incentives, now is the perfect time to make your move to ARTAVIA ® . This master-planned community is ARTfully designed to bring people and nature together. Visit one of our 17 model homes to begin your move today!

242

BEAZER HOMES • CHESMAR HOMES • DAVID WEEKLEY HOMES HIGHLAND HOMES • JAMESTOWN ESTATE HOMES • J. PATRICK HOMES LENNAR • PERRY HOMES • RAVENNA HOMES • WESTIN HOMES NEW HOMES FROM THE MID $300s – $1M+

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ARTAVIATX.COM

17590 ARTAVIA Parkway Conroe, TX 77302

Realtors welcome. No representation or warranties of intended use, design, or proposed improvements are made herein. Maps not to scale. Prices, savings incentives, specifications, and details concerning homes are established by the builders and are subject to change without notice. Incentives are offered by individual builders and may change at any time without notice. Please confirm the current details with the builder directly. Neither the builders nor ARTAVIA Development Company is responsible for changes. © 2025 ARTAVIA ® Development Company. All rights reserved.

Health than Wealth is a greater

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See clinic for more information and complete details. The Joint Chiropractic Patient Services Application Gift Chiropractic. This holiday give wellness and healing.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Angela Bonilla Sarah Brager Melissa Enaje Valeria Escobar Wesley Gardner Cole Gee Atirikta Kumar Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Roo Moody Tomer Ronen

Nicole Preston General Manager npreston@ communityimpact.com

Nichaela Shaheen Catherine White Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills Jake Schlesinger Jesus Verastegui Ronald Winters Account Executive Stacy Emerson Managing Editor James T. Norman Product Manager Martha Risinger Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez

Vanessa Holt Senior Editor vholt@ communityimpact.com

Jason Culpepper Houston Market President jculpepper@ communityimpact.com

16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281-469-6181 CI careers

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It is time to start to look at the year ahead. Are you mentally prepared for market volatility? Over the past couple of decades, we have seen multiple drawdowns in the stock market ranging anywhere from 10% to 50%. Being mentally prepared for market volatility is often the key to investment success. Downturns will occur, but it’s how we prepare ourselves for those downturns and how we react (or don’t react) to them when they happen that matters. Let us help you make sure that your portfolio is designed to absorb market volatility. When you are prepared it is much easier to sleep at night when volatility raises its ugly head. MONTHLY COMMENTARY For our daily commentary and all disclosures, visit www.chjwealthmanagement.com 10200 Grogan’s Mill Road, Suite 430 • 281-298-2700

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

TOWNSHIP FROM THE BOARDROOM ELECTION RESULTS

DECEMBER 2025 - INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

CAN I BUILD A TRASH CART SCREEN?

Yes, you can! You can either build a custom screen or purchase a ready-made

On November 14, the Board held a special meeting to canvass the November 2025 Board of Directors Election. Order No. 018-25 was unanimously adopted, officially declaring the results based on tabulations from Montgomery and Harris counties: • Shelley Sekula-Gibbs was elected to Position 5 with 9,651 votes; • Adam Lamb won Position 6 with 6,365 votes, followed by Allan Bounds (1,757), Philip Ikharebhore (856) and Maria Holmes (4,115); • Cindy Heiser was elected to Position 7 with 9,784 votes. Judge Lisa Michalk administered the oaths of office to the newly elected Directors. Following the ceremony, the Board elected its 2026 officers: Brad Bailey as Chairman, Craig Eissler as Vice Chairman, Linda Nelson as Secretary and Richard Franks as Treasurer. RECOGNITIONS The Board honored outgoing Director Dr. Ann K. Snyder for five terms of distinguished public service. Directors and community members commended her leadership in public safety, economic development, fiscal stewardship, regional partnerships and community engagement. The November 19 regular meeting began with a proclamation recognizing The Woodlands High School Tennis Team for capturing its first UIL 6A state championship after an undefeated 19-0 season and a dramatic 10-9 title match victory. ACTIONS Key actions included reviewing applicants for two Development Standards Committee designee positions and approving revisions to Township orders for updating 2026 recreation facility hours and fees. The Board also authorized the purchase of 25 new commuter buses for The Woodlands Express— fully funded through federal sources. The new buses will feature enhanced passenger seating, improved outlets, expanded air conditioning capacity, bike storage, electronic stop announcements and flushing restrooms. Delivery is anticipated by September 2026. Additional items included acceptance of updates on the Respect the Path safety initiative, which has continued to progress with weekly distribution of videos and educational materials, and has generated significant engagement. The Woodlands Fire Department has been monitoring pathway incidents and noted that an increase in helmet use has been observed since the initiative beagan in August.

SAFETY BEGINS WITH EDUCATION The Township’s Neighborhood Services Department recently held pop-up events at elementary schools in Creekside Park Village to help residents learn more about our Respect the Path initiative. Staff handed out educational materials, answered questions and spoke with families about the importance of safe pathway habits. It was encouraging to see many children wearing their helmets correctly! This cross- departmental, community partner safety and education program focuses on creating a culture of awareness and courtesy along our pathways. THEWOODLANDSTOWNSHIP-TX.GOV/COVENANTS screening of the trash and recycle carts. Please review The Woodlands Residential Development Standards regarding trash cart enclosures for more information. screen that complies with The Woodlands Residential Development Standards. Trash and recycle cart screens must be designed to completely screen the containers from view or as a complete enclosure with an access gate. The screened area may include a solid paved or pervious surface for a foundation. Trash and recycle cart screens must incorporate colors and materials compatible to the dwelling or existing fence. Trash and recycle carts that will be screened by vegetation alone require natural evergreen vegetation that will substantially screen the carts. The vegetation must be maintained to provide complete

FAREWELL TO DR. ANN K. SNYDER Dr. Ann K. Snyder’s departure from The Woodlands Township Board of Directors on November 19, 2025, marks the close of a remarkable decade of service and a lifetime of unwavering dedication to community leadership. First elected in 2015, Dr. Snyder has been an advocate for every resident, centering her work on public safety, economic development, legislative advocacy, and the preservation of the exceptional quality of life that defines The Woodlands. A resident for more than 34 years, Dr. Snyder has shaped the community not only through her elected role but through decades of professional and volunteer leadership. Known throughout Montgomery and Harris Counties, she has strengthened organizations, inspired collaboration, and elevated the spirit of generosity that makes this community extraordinary. Her involvement extends across nearly every corner of civic life—from healthcare and education to business and philanthropy. Dr. Snyder’s impact has been recognized through an extraordinary list of honors, awards, and distinctions, each reflecting her steadfast dedication to service. Yet her greatest legacy may be the lives she has touched, the institutions she has strengthened and the community she has helped cultivate with compassion and purpose. With heartfelt gratitude, The Woodlands Township extends its deepest appreciation to Dr. Snyder for her extraordinary service, her leadership marked by integrity and kindness, and her unwavering devotion to this community. Her contributions will continue to guide and inspire The Woodlands for generations to come.

THEWOODLANDSTOWNSHIP-TX.GOV/BOARDMEETINGS SEASONS GREETINGS FROM THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP! THEWOODLANDSTOWNSHIP-TX.GOV/PATHWAYS

JANUARY 1 - 22 FILING PERIOD FOR RDRC AND VILLAGE ASSOCIATION ELECTIONS

DECEMBER 24 & 25 / JANUARY 1 THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP OFFICES CLOSED FOR HOLIDAYS

DECEMBER 25 & JANUARY 1 NO COLLECTION OF TRASH, RECYCLING OR YARD WASTE

DETAILS AND MORE EVENTS ONLINE AT THEWOODLANDSTOWNSHIP-TX.GOV/CALENDAR

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HOME FURNISHINGS I HOME DÉCOR I OUTDOOR LIVING I INTERIOR DESIGN

MARKET STREET THE WOODLANDS Next to the Hyatt Centric 346.372.8690 I tbfurniturewoodlands.com

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

Impacts

5 David Yurman The store offers men’s and women’s jewelry as well as wedding jewelry and special collections at its new

Magnolia

LAKE WOODLANDS DR.

SIX PINES DR.

Market Street location. • Opened in November • 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands • www.davidyurman.com

2 4

3 5

1488

HUGHES LANDING BLVD.

242

WATERWAY AVE.

11 18 10

6 CPAP Concierge A new medical testing and equipment service to treat sleep apnea opened in The Woodlands, spokesman Grant Stevens said. CPAP Concierge offers sleep testing and the equipment needed to treat apnea. • Opened Oct. 1 • 4200 Research Forest Drive, Ste. 460, The Woodlands • www.cpapconcierge.com donate to area nonprofits. The machines are part of The Church of Latter-day Saints’ “Light the World” initiative, according to a news release. The Woodlands machines will be open through Jan. 3. • Opened Dec. 17 • Hughes Landing Band Shell, 1950 Hughes Landing Blvd., The Woodlands. • www.givingmachineshouston.org 7 Giving Machines The seasonal vending machines allow residents to 8 Perspire Sauna Studio The studio provides an infrared sauna experience that uses red light therapy and color light therapy, according to a news release from the company. • Opened Dec. 12 • 10720 Kuykendahl Road, Ste. C-2, The Woodlands • www.perspiresaunastudio.com 9 Fresh Monkee The business held a soft opening, officials said. Fresh Monkee offers a variety of protein shakes, with popular flavors including the Antioxidant Berry, Cinnamon Toast, Go Bananas, Strawberry Moon and Hazelnut S’mores. • Opened in November • 25118 Grogans Mill Road, Ste. C, The Woodlands • www.freshmonkee.com

L O

VISION PARK BLVD.

The Woodlands

RESEARCH FOREST DR.

RED BAY CIR.

DAVID MEMORIAL DR.

BRANCH CROSSING DR.

SWEETGUM RD.

E. PANTHER CREEK DR.

LAKE WOODLANDS

CREEKSIDE FOREST DR.

2978

SIX PINES DR.

GROGANS MILL RD.

CREEKSIDE GREEN DR.

BUCKTHORNE PL.

SAWDUST RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

• 9595 Six Pines Drive, Ste. 930, The Woodlands • www.pinkchicken.com

Now open

99 TOLL

The Vein Center Building.jpg 2 Pink Chicken Launched by Stacey Fraser in 2006, Pink Chicken offers vintage-inspired children’s clothing in fun, cheerful patterns and prints. • Opened Nov. 22 1 On the Kirb On the Kirb features a menu made with local produce and organic meats, per the website. Menu items include salads, burgers, wraps, tacos and pizza. • Opened Nov. 15 • 6777 Woodlands Parkway, Ste. 100, Spring, The Woodlands • www.onthekirb.com

3 Draper James The store opened a new location at Market Street offering clothing, dresses, accessories, shoes and kid’s wear along with home accessories and pet items. • Opened in November • 9595 Six Pines Drive, Ste. 950, The Woodlands • www.draperjames.com 4 Gorjana The jewelry store specializes in gold and silver necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings. • Opened in November • 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands • www.gorjana.com Spring

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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Construction for the renovations in the building will be completed by Jan. 16, according to the filing. • 2501 Research Forest Drive, Ste. B, The Woodlands • www.schillecis.com 15 La Dolce Nail Spa Construction of La Dolce Nail Spa Creekside is set to begin Dec. 1, with an estimated completion date of June 2026, according to the TDLR filing. The salon offers a variety of services including manicures, pedicures, nail art designs, eyelash extensions and waxing, according to its website. • 24527 Gosling Road, Ste. B101, Spring • www.ladolcenailspaspring.com

Coming soon

Now open

10 Bari Ristorante Restaurant officials confirmed in a Nov. 13 news release Bari Ristorante will come to the area in 2026. The 200-seat restaurant will feature dishes and favorites from the River Oaks District. • Opening in early 2026 • 24 Waterway Ave., Ste. 125, The Woodlands • www.bariristorante.com 11 Lankford’s Lankford’s announced Nov. 18 that it will open a new location in The Woodlands, where Baja Cantina and Fiesta was previously located. The restaurant offers a signature lineup of burgers and comfort food classics. • Opening in January • 24 Waterway Ave., Ste. 160, The Woodlands • www.lankfordsburgers.com 12 Discovery School of Innovation Discovery School of Innovation will open a new campus for students in pre-K to eighth grade in August 2026, the school announced. The school also will launch its first high school program in fall 2027. • Opening in August • 28277 Sweetgum Road, Magnolia • www.discoverysi.org 13 Innovate@MCMLS The program will add an innovation space at the Kevin Brady Library and Community Center that will include a professional podcast studio as well as a makerspace with fabrication tools, 3D modular printers, scanners and other equipment, according to a news release. • Opening in January • 2550 Buckthorne Place, The Woodlands • www.countylibrary.org

Expansions

19 1 Riva Row The 13-story high-rise is now open along The Woodlands Waterway, Howard Hughes announced in a Nov. 20 news release. It includes the first penthouses available for lease in a multifamily community in The Woodlands, as well as two-story townhomes. The complex also offers 49 unique floorplans and includes 268 units as rental units.

16 Teora Music School The school is offering new group classes as part of an expansion of its programs, according to an October news release. The new programs include children’s choir, band dynamics and group piano lessons. • Expanded this fall • 24913 Kuykendahl Road, Stes. C & D, Tomball • www.teoramusic.com

• Opening announced Nov. 20 • 1 Riva Row, The Woodlands • www.1rivarow.com

In the news

17 Fusion Academy Fusion Academy is holding a 10th anniversary celebration and open house Feb. 26, as it opened for students in the 2015-16 school year. The private school offers personalized learning and serves grades 6-12. • 1201 Lake Woodlands Drive, Ste. 4000, The Woodlands • www.fusionacademy.com

• 24 Waterway Ave., Ste. 160, The Woodlands • www.eatbaja.com

20 Killen’s Barbecue The restaurant was slated to close Dec. 7, a restaurant spokesperson confirmed in an email. Responding for Killen’s, Kelley Louis said the company is under contract with Whataburger for the property. • Closed Dec. 7 • 8800 Six Pines Drive, Shenandoah • www.killensbarbecue.com

Closings

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

18 Baja Cantina and Fiesta Baja Cantina and Fiesta has closed, the business confirmed to Community Impact . The restaurant opened in 2021 and offered a range of Baja-style cuisine. • Closed Nov. 10

14 Schilleci’s New Orleans Kitchen A location is planned in a 2,904-square-foot space at 2501 Research Forest Drive, Ste. B, The Woodlands.

Welcome Dr. Claudine Dumandan! Dr. Dumandan is a cardiologist who specializes in women’s heart health, preventative cardiology, coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart valve disease, heart failure and cardiac arrhythmia. She will be seeing patients at both Creekside and Shenandoah locations.

Shenandoah Oce: 134 Vision Park Blvd Suite 130, Shenandoah Creekside Oce: 26940 Kuykendahl Road Suite 110, The Woodlands (832) 334-7756 | cardio-consultants.com

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

THE PREMIER PRESCHOOL EXPERIENCE IN THE WOODLANDS take a tour

Registration opens Tuesday, January 20 Act quickly! Limited spots available

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Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

What's next

In the news

STONECREST DR.

242

METROPARK DR.

2 6

Shenandoah

TAMINA RD.

MAIN ST.

Oak Ridge North Tamina

DAVID VETTER BLVD.

3 Buffalo Wild Wings The restaurant will be undergoing renovation at its Shenandoah location, according to a filing with TDLR. The 6,462-square-foot restaurant will receive an upgrade with new furniture and a new exterior sign, per the TDLR filing. Construction for the renovation will cost an estimated $87,500 and

6 Escapology The escape room celebrated one year in business on Nov. 23. The facility offers an hour of immersive private escape room group experiences such as “Scooby-Doo and the Spooky Castle Adventure” and “Antidote: Chemical Warfare.” The location now has eight rooms, including a new attraction, “The Lost City,” according to management. The December featured room is “Batman.” • 8920 Metropark Drive, Ste. 100, Shenandoah • www.escapology.com

ROBINSON RD.

IMPERIAL OAKS BLVD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

ALDINE WESTFIELD RD.

will take place from Feb. 23 to July 29. • 19075 I-45, Ste. 100, Shenandoah • www.buffalowildwings.com

Now open

FOX RUN BLVD.

1 Harpers Kids’ Dentistry and Orthodontics

WOODSON'S RESERVE PKWY.

99 TOLL

The new office offers children’s pediatric dentistry with sedation as well as orthodontics for children and adults and other services, including emergency dentistry. • Opened Nov. 4 Spring

4 Woodlofts Shenandoah The multifamily development will start leasing in February 2027, and the estimated completion date for the project is July 2027, said John Mayner, president of Visit Shenandoah, the city’s convention and visitor bureau. The business website states it will have 229 units. • Opening in 2027 • 201 David J. Vetter Blvd., Shenandoah • www.buckfund.com

30 held a dedication ceremony for a historical marker at Conroe ISD’s Mittie J. Campbell Elementary School, which opened in August. She was the first Black woman to serve as a principal in the district, according to a news release from MCHC.

• 10350 Hwy. 242, Ste. 500, Conroe • www.harperskidsdentistry.com

Coming soon

• 15895 Stonecrest Drive, Conroe • https://campbell.conroeisd.net

2 Orange Pocket The Asian convenience store offers a variety of gift items and will open a new location in Metropark Square, said John Mayner, president of Visit Shenandoah. Orange Pocket operates two other locations in Bellaire and Katy. Information on the business’ social media pages indicates a December opening is planned. • Opening in December • 8850 Metropark Drive, Ste. 500, Shenandoah • Instagram: orangepocket_woodlands

7 Tamina Freedom Colony A state historical marker was dedicated at Tamina Park on Dec. 6 celebrating the history of the Tamina Freedom Colony. The colony was settled by formerly enslaved people in South Montgomery County after the Civil War, according to MCHC. • 19500 Main St., Conroe • www.montgomerycountyhistoricalcommission.org

In the news

5 Mittie J. Campbell Elementary School The Montgomery County Historical Commission on Oct.

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THE WOODLANDS EDITION

Events

December

Holiday Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament Attendees will complete their own 100-piece puzzle. The first four to finish will move to the second round and complete a different 100-piece puzzle, and the final two will face off head-to-head with a third puzzle. This event is for ages 10 and older, and registration is required.

• Dec. 19, 2 p.m. • Free (admission) • George & Cynthia Woods Mitchell Library, 8125 Ashlane Way, The Woodlands • www.countylibrary.org

Next Gen Christmas Camp The Woodlands Methodist Church is holding a Christmas camp featuring basketball and dancing activities for children from kindergarten through sixth grade. Registration includes a T-shirt, craft and Chick-fil-A lunch. • Dec. 20, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. • $70 (per camper) • The Woodlands Methodist Church, 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandsmethodist.org Elves and Arrows The Rob Fleming Archery Range is holding an introduction class with a holiday twist for beginners. Hot cocoa and snacks will be provided. • Dec. 20, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. • $25 (resident), $30 (nonresident) • The Rob Fleming Archery Range, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov Jingle Boats Participants can kayak under the holiday tree at the Riva Row Boat House. Preregistration is required. • Dec. 20, 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. • $25-$30 (admission) • Riva Row Boat House, 2101 Riva Row, The Woodlands • www.rivarowboathouse.com Gingerbread House Making Children ages 3 and up are invited to build and decorate a gingerbread house with gumdrops, peppermints and

Boni’s Nutcracker Camp Dancers ages 4-8 are invited to the Boni’s Nutcracker Camp where children can wear their holiday pajamas, decorate cookies, learn Nutcracker dances and more. • Dec. 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. • $135 (per camper) • Boni’s Dance and Performing Arts Studio, 9102 Forest Crossing, The Woodlands • www.bonisdance.com

Cookies for Santa Children ages 3 and up can celebrate the holiday season by decorating holiday cookies in a cheerful atmosphere. • Dec. 22, 1 p.m. • $20 (resident), $25 (nonresident) • Rob Fleming Recreation Center, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

frosting. Each enrollment receives one gingerbread house to decorate. • Dec. 22, 10 a.m. • $20 (resident), $25 (nonresident) • Rob Fleming Recreation Center, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov Christmas Eve Dinner The Audrey is holding a Christmas Eve celebration with a dinner featuring seasonal flavors. • Dec. 24, 10 a.m. (brunch), 3-9 p.m. (dinner) • Price TBD • Market Street, 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands • www.shopatmarketstreet.com

January

Montgomery County Boutique Crawl At the Montgomery County Boutique Crawl, attendees can start the year with an updated wardrobe with an event featuring hundreds of local boutique owners liquidating their 2025 inventory. • Jan. 10, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. • $5 (cash entry) • The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, 1601 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands • Facebook: Montgomery County Holiday Extravaganza

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Weather Wonders with Meteorologist Maggie Shows

The Woodlands Songwriter Festival The Woodlands Songwriter Festival includes an experience with resort accommodations, food and beverage throughout the festival and access to intimate performances featuring 24 acclaimed songwriters and headline performances. • Dec. 29-Jan. 1 • $160-$1,160 (tickets) • The Woodlands Resort, 2301 N. Millbend Drive, The Woodlands • www.events.woodlandsresort.com

High Noon Countdown 2025 Attendees can ring in the New Year with a balloon drop extravaganza at The Woodlands Children’s Museum. • Dec. 31, 9:30-11 a.m., 11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m., 2-3:30 p.m. • $10 (adult), $25 (child) • The Woodlands Children’s Museum, 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Ste. 280, The Woodlands • www.woodlandschildrensmuseum.org

The Woodlands Children’s Museum is holding a meteorologist show to share the exploration of the water cycle, cloud formation and weather patterns with a performance utilizing puppetry. • Dec. 27, 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. • $9 (museum admission) • 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Ste. 280, The Woodlands • www.woodlandschildrensmuseum.org

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

Events

Live music

Featured artist

Dosey Doe-The Big Barn 25911 I-45, Spring www.doseydoetickets.com • Dec. 31: The Wilder Blue, 10 p.m. • Jan. 2: Luke Prater, 8:30 p.m. • Jan. 3: Six Gun Sound, 8:30 p.m. • Jan. 4-6: Sarah Kelly Music School Showcase, 6:30 p.m. • Jan. 7: Mike Eli of The Eli Young Band, 8:30 p.m. • Jan. 9: Andy Griggs, 8:30 p.m. • Jan. 10: Jesse Raub Jr., 8:30 p.m. • Jan. 16: Jeff Canada, 8:30 p.m. • Jan. 17: Departure ATX, 8:30 p.m. Hyatt Centric The Woodlands 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands www.hyatt.com • Dec. 20: Ryan Pinnick, 6 p.m. • Dec. 27: Amado Garcia, 6 p.m. The Refuge Steakhouse and Bourbon Bar 8540 Creekside Forest Drive, Tomball www.refugeinthewoodlands.com • Dec. 19: Justin LeBlanc, 6 p.m. • Dec. 20: Sub-Urban Myth, 6 p.m. • Dec. 26: A.J. Santana, 6 p.m. • Dec. 27: Jimmie Hunter, 6 p.m.

The Woodlands

Back Table 2301 N. Millbend Drive, The Woodlands www.backtabletx.com • Dec. 20: Ben Garcia, 6 p.m. • Dec. 26: Sophie Mystique, 6 p.m. • Dec. 27: Seth Duty, 6 p.m. The Blue Lion Pub 8000 McBeth Way, Ste. 100, The Woodlands www.blueliontexas.com • Dec. 20: DJ Danesthetic, 8 p.m. • Dec. 26: Rapture, 8 p.m. • Dec. 27 Falskye, 8 p.m. Como Social Club 2 Waterway Square Place, The Woodlands www.comosocialclub.com • Dec. 20: Sophie Mystique & Jeremy Schwanke, 9 p.m. • Dec. 26: Javier Gonzalez, 9 p.m. • Dec. 27: Luke Whitney & Sophie Mystique, 9 p.m. • Jan. 2: Javier Gonzalez, 9 p.m. • Jan. 9: Javier Gonzalez, 9 p.m.

Musician Jeremy Parsons finds local inspiration

Jeremy Parsons, originally from San Antonio, said he first started pursuing music as a junior in high school. Can you tell me about your experience as a musician? It’s been a wild ride that I wouldn’t change for anything. I’ve been hungry, I’ve been broke, I’ve been heartbroken. ... I’ve put them all into songs to use as reminders that we don’t stay where we were. How would you describe the music that you typically create? I usually throw myself into an Americana or alternative country

realm ... and I always joke that the song tells me how it should sound. What is the message that you would like to give to the community? I can’t thank y’all enough for always supporting me, whether it’s coming to a show ... tipping me, commenting on my social media or streaming my music. Cellar 24 6700 Woodlands Parkway, The Woodlands www.cellar-24.com • Dec. 19: Jeremy Parsons, 7 p.m.

The artist interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version and a full calendar of live music events, visit communityimpact.com .

December 29, 2025 - January 1, 2026 Woodlands, TX Songwriters Festival DARRYL WORLEY the frontmen neal mccoy

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Featured artist

Dale Watson @ Main Street Crossing Main Street Crossing, 111 W. Main St., Tomball www.mainstreetcrossing. thundertix.com

The country musician has been working in the industry and performing live for over 40 years, according to his website. He has recorded over 30 albums and singles. • Jan. 13-15: Wade Bowen, 8 p.m.

Alex Skolnick Trio @ Dosey Doe Big Barn Dosey Doe-The Big Barn, 25911 I-45, Spring www.doseydoetickets.com

According to his website, Alex Skolnick is known for heavy metal and jazz guitar and was a student of Joe Satriani. He was also in the thrash metal band Testament. • Jan. 8: Alex Skolnick Trio, 8:30 p.m.

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY ANGELA BONILLA

Oak Ridge North to work with developer on 160-home plan to current Montgomery County standards. She said demographic studies for Oak Ridge North show that by 2030, the city’s population of almost 3,000 could see a decrease due to current residents’ ages and other factors, meaning the new development could help the city maintain its current population. Proposed development 32 acres 160 homes

Oak Ridge North City Council directed city staff on Nov. 17 to begin working with D.R. Horton, an Arlington-based home construction company, on discussions regarding a proposed 160-home devel- opment in the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction. The backstory D. R. Horton Project Manager Iyeka Bankston presented the proposal for a development at Elder and Robinson roads featuring 40-by-110-foot lot sizes, as previously reported by Community Impact . The project had originally been pre- sented as fewer homes on 50-by-110-foot lots. The reduced size would allow for 40 additional rooftops, or a total of 160 homes, Bankston said. The homes would be priced at approximately $419,000 in order to be competitive with higher-priced homes in The Woodlands, she said. Bankston said the community could provide benefits to the city such as right-of-way improve- ments on Robinson Road and widening Elder Road

“We’d like to be able to add new development ... so that you can continue to grow your commu- nity,” Bankston said. More details D.R. Horton and city administrator Heather Nea- ley will meet to discuss and plan the development, but a timeline was not laid out. Bankston said the developer was also working with Montgomery County on emergency access on the roads. As part of that, Elder Road would also be widened as part of the project and an emergency access plan would be developed, she said.

40-by-110-foot lot sizes

$419,000 home price

E L D E R R D .

R O B I N S O N R D .

SOURCE: D.R. HORTON/COMMUNITY IMPACT

FEBRUARY 13, 2026 ◆ 6PM THE WOODLANDS WATERWAY MARRIOTT HOTEL Neighbor LOVE Your 2026 The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence Gala HONORING OUR 2026 HOMETOWN HEROES

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THE WOODLANDS EDITION

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Conroe

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY VANESSA HOLT

Magnolia

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LAKE WOODLANDS

3 Fire Station No. 5 Project: The Woodlands Township is constructing a new re station to replace the original Fire Station No. 5 as part of a $14.5 million improvement project for department facilities. Update: Chief Palmer Buck said in December a move-in date is planned in the rst week of January, and a grand opening will be held Jan. 31. • Location: 8005 McBeth Way, The Woodlands • Timeline: August 2024-December 2025 • Funding source: The Woodlands Township 4 Alden Bridge Sports Park Project: The Woodlands Township is planning the rst phase of a $17.8 million project to remodel the Alden Bridge Sports Park, which will include the conversion of a small grass eld to the park’s “championship eld” with all-weather turf, bleachers and scoreboard. The improvements will also include 203 additional parking spaces, several new grass elds and a restroom facility. Update: D. L. Meacham was named as the primary contractor for Phase 1 of the project Dec. 4 for $6.8 million, and several other contractors were chosen for elements such as the restroom and lighting. Construction is expected to take about a year, Nunes said. The project had originally been slated to begin work in 2025. • Location: 4751 Hwy. 242, The Woodlands • Timeline: early 2026-early 2027 • Funding source: The Woodlands Township

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1 Water fountain at Waterway Square Project: The Woodlands will renovate and repair the water fountain at Waterway Square, with up to $3.5 million allocated to the project, Community Impact previously reported. Update: The township is working with Hal Engineering on three options to present to the board of directors, said Chris Nunes, chief operating ocer for The Woodlands Township. Nunes said the project is anticipated to come before the board in the rst quarter of 2026. • Location: 31 Waterway Square Place, The Woodlands • Timeline: early 2026-TBD • Funding source: The Woodlands Township 2 First Fifty anniversary sculpture Project: A “First Fifty” anniversary sculpture is under construction at the intersection of Woodlands

Parkway and Grogans Mill Road to commemorate the community’s 50th anniversary in 1974. The cost of the project is $1.2 million, which includes $350,000 in funding from the township’s Cultural Projects Reserve, $250,000 from the Town Center Owners Association and $450,000 from Howard Hughes and its partners, Community Impact previously reported. The sculpture is meant to pay homage to the eight villages in The Woodlands. The project was approved in 2024 following the township’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Update: The art piece is anticipated to be completed in February, Nunes said. • Location: median at the intersection of Woodlands Parkway and Grogans Mill Road • Timeline: January 2025-February 2026 • Funding sources: Howard Hughes, The Woodlands Township and Town Center Owners Association Spring 99 TOLL

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

CELEBRATE

IN THE WOODLANDS at the Annual Tree Giveaway Event SATURDAY, JANUARY 31, 2026 9 a.m. to noon Join The Woodlands Township in celebrating the annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway. SATURDAY, JANUARY 31, 2026 9

Discover the warmth of the season at The Woodland’s premier Active Independent Living community. Embrace the coziness of home as you enjoy delectable chef- prepared meals with all-day dining and joyful celebrations. Forge new friendships during our weekly happy hours and enjoy a sense of community - come home to the timelessly elegant Conservatory Alden Bridge .

12 different types of tree seedlings are available free to residents. (While supplies last)

√ All Day Sensations Dining √ Weekly Happy Hours

√ On-Site Personal Trainer √ Heated Outdoor Pool & Spa

THE LODGE AT ROB FLEMING PARK 6055 Creekside Forest Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77389

More details at thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/arborday

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY ATIRIKTA KUMAR

$24.3M in federal funds slated for new buses The Woodlands Township board of directors on Nov. 19 accepted a proposal for the purchase of new commuter buses for The Woodlands Express transit program. In a nutshell The Woodlands will get new commuter buses, made by Motor Coach Industries, in September 2026, according to the contract. The new fleet costs approximately $24.3 million, which is within the $25 million budget allocated for the purchase of a new commuter bus fleet, said Ruthanne Haut, the director of transportation for The Woodlands Township. The entire cost for a new fleet is covered through federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Adminis- tration by means of the regional Carry Over Spend Down program via the Houston-Galveston Area Council, Haut said. The details The new fleet will come wrapped in The Wood- lands transit logo, and that cost is included in the total, Haut said. Local races set for 2026 primaries Candidate filing data from the Texas Secretary of State’s office shows 19 people have filed to run for county-level offices in Montgomery County. The details Dec. 8 was the last day for candidates to file to run in the March 3 primary election, per the Texas Secretary of State’s website. Here are several contested races in Mont- gomery County for the Republican primary. This list is not comprehensive. • County judge: Mark Keough (incumbent), Wayne Mack • County commissioner, Precinct 2: Bob Harvey, Charlie Riley (incumbent) • Justice of the peace, Precinct 3: Jay Mac Sanders (incumbent), Brittany Gable-Hale

County mental health facility work proceeds Montgomery County commissioners on Nov. 18 approved $117,500 for engineering services to expand the Montgomery County Mental Health Treatment Facility. What you need to know The expansion, which began Aug. 18, is possible through a portion of $50 million awarded to Montgomery County in 2023 the Texas Health and Human Services’ Mental Health Inpatient Facility Grant Program. The facility serves justice-involved individuals. The expansion will increase the facility’s capacity by 100 beds and will be completed by early 2027, officials said.

The new fleet will include:

A heating, ventilation and air conditioning system with 50% more cooling capacity

Footrests

Outlets

Flushing toilets

Visual displays and electronic stop announcements

SOURCE: THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The new buses will run the current routes to downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, Greenway Plaza and the Energy Corridor. Next steps The township will continue using approximately 12-14 of the older buses as a reserve fleet, Haut said. This will help lower the annual cost of the express service by allowing the township to not use any contractor-owned buses for reserve vehicles, Haut said. The board has until the summer to decide what to do with the existing fleet, Haut said. State funds sought for historical courthouse Montgomery County commissioners are explor- ing options to advance the county’s historical courthouse master plan. Meeting highlights In February, commissioners discussed several options for a new courthouse and are looking into a grant to renovate the historical courthouse, county officials said. A master plan for the courthouse is almost 50% completed, including the historical and architec- tural research, said Jason Smith, deputy chief of staff for Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough. Smith said he is meeting with the Texas Histor- ical Commission to get feedback on which parts of the Montgomery County Courthouse at 301 N. Main St., Conroe, would qualify for funding. Smith did not specify the amount the county needs from the state legislature.

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A courthouse has to be at least 50 years old to be eligible for funding through the legislature, according to the Texas Historical Commission website. The courthouse was built in 1936 and was renovated in the 1960s to add wings, Smith said. In 1978, a second story was added to the courthouse wings. As it stands, the entire courthouse will be eligible for the grant in 2028, but only the part of the courthouse renovated in the 1960s is eligible now, Smith said.

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

105

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & JULIANNA WASHBURN

Higher Education Guide

2025

LSC-Magnolia Center to open in January

Features of LSC-Magnolia Center $28.15M: cost 85,000 square feet 15-acre site 7 classrooms 7 labs 5 computer classrooms

Over a decade after work began in 2014, Lone Star College System officials will welcome students to Lone Star College-Magnolia Center on Jan. 20 for the spring 2026 semester. Lone Star College-Tomball President Lee Ann Nutt said students there can complete associate degrees for university transfer and work toward workforce certifications in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, as well as emergency medical services, according to the center’s website. The campus will also feature a library and student support services, per its website. “This is a long time coming. … The community has wanted it for a very long time,” Nutt said.

How we got here The project was part of LSCS’s $485 million bond, which was approved by voters in 2014. The project’s design was completed in late 2022,

Includes a library Will be LSCS’s 11th satellite campus

and officials broke ground in June 2024. Formerly aligned to the system’s LSC-

Montgomery campus located along Hwy. 242, Nutt said that due to the Magnolia Center’s proximity to LSC-Tomball, which is located along Hwy. 249, it is now part of that campus instead. Nutt said she will feel as if LSCS has succeeded if they register 500 students over the first spring and summer semesters. She predicted enrollment of at least 4,500 students in several years.

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SOURCE: LONE STAR COLLEGE SYSTEM/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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THE WOODLANDS EDITION

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