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New Caney Porter Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 12 MAY 2 JUNE 2, 2026
Wheels over walls Business owners opt for mobility in New Caney, Porter
BY EMILY LINCKE
Owned by Cal Schouten, left, Dino Co ee Company in New Caney o ers specialty drinks for customers, such as Paige Pitre, right. The mobile business is one of many in East Montgomery County that have opted against traditional brick-and-mortar storefronts. (Emily Lincke/Community Impact) Schouten is one of multiple business owners in the New Caney and Porter area who have opted to launch businesses while forgoing a brick-and-mortar storefront. Since January 2025, at least 12 mobile businesses or compa- nies with nontraditional facilities—such as food trucks, mobile pet services and beverage compa- nies—have opened, per Community Impact reporting. Schouten said even though the trailer operates from a speci c address during business hours, having the option to go mobile allows them more exibility. “I knew that I did not want to start out brick-and-mortar,” Schouten said. “I just wanted to kind of dip my foot in the water. … With the trailer, it’s still mobile. If we picked a spot and it didn’t really work out, you can always move it.” Running a co ee trailer in New Caney was not how Cal Schouten expected to earn a living. Yet, the Dino Co ee Company owner said she has never been happier. Schouten said she and her husband decided to take a chance on the venture after she was laid o from her corporate recruiting job. In February, they opened Dino Co ee Company in a mobile trailer along FM 1485.
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About Community Impact
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NEW CANEY PORTER EDITION
Impacts
• Opened March 1 • 23951 FM 1314 Road, Porter • www.alonestarservice.com
SPEED ST.
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6 PARTHENON PL.
3 McCoy’s Building Supply The store will sell building materials for residential and agricultural projects as well as tractor, trailer and auto supplies. Farm, ranch and animal supplies; work wear and safety gear will also be sold. • Soft opened April 20; grand opening May 14 • 21989 Hwy. 242, New Caney • www.mccoys.com
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4 Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux Originally expected to open late this spring, the Cajun and Creole restaurant will offer a menu of boudin, gumbo and fried alligator, as well as burgers and wings. The sports bar will feature more than 90 big-screen TVs and a full bar with over 24 beers on tap and signature cocktails. • Opening in late August • 22276 Market Place Drive, New Caney • www.walk-ons.com 5 The Kebab Shop Originally expected to open last fall, the Mediterranean restaurant will offer a menu of fire-grilled skewers, wraps and bowls. • Opening in September • 21856 Market Place Drive, New Caney • www.thekebabshop.com 6 Shepherd’s Field Radiate Coalition—a faith-based nonprofit helping survivors of abuse, trafficking and exploitation as well as young women who have aged out of the foster care system—will be opening a home in New Caney. Executive Director Bevin Caramello said the property will provide long-term housing for 23 women. The remodel of a donated existing building will kick off this spring, and a campaign to raise $2 million to finish the project will begin later this year. • Program launching in 2027 • 1100 Parthenon Place, New Caney • www.radiatecoalition.org
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Valley Ranch
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MAP NOT TO SCALE
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• 18978 FM 1314, Conroe • www.tinytundratx.com
Now open
1 Tiny Tundra Snowcones Owned by Bryan Arguello, Ada Roldan and Kevin Valdez, the business offers fresh lemonade and finely shaved ice topped with 17 classic flavors. Tundra Tubs—25-ounce snow cone creations layered with syrups, frozen fruit and ice cream—are also on the menu. • Opened April 17
2 ALS Blinds Owned by Raul Rodriguez, the business was founded in 2007 but recently opened a brick-and-mortar location in Porter. The company offers in-home design consultations and specializes in blinds, shutters, shades, drapes, screens, motorized systems and exterior roller shades.
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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
7 The Market at Royal Brook Construction on a new multi-building shopping center is slated to kick off early next year in Porter. Owned by Malabar Hill Capital, the project includes two shell buildings—one measuring 20,647 square feet and the other measuring 23,092 square feet—that will house multiple business tenants. • Opening date TBD • 7A 5731 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Porter; 7B 5735 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Porter • www.malabarhillcapital.com 8 Waffle House The diner serves breakfast, lunch and dinner items including waffles, omelets, hash browns, burgers, pork chops and pies. • Opening date TBD • 14420 Old Hwy. 59, Splendora • www.wafflehouse.com
In the news
What’s next
PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION
11 Porter SnoBall The shaved ice stand opened March 20 for its 50th season, owner Karen Barfield said via email April 10. Originally opened by Barfield’s mother, Martha Turner, in April 1976, Barfield said she assumed ownership of the business after her mother’s passing in 2001. Porter
SnoBall offers 50 shaved ice flavors available in four sizes with toppings ranging from cool whip and Nerds to caramel and condensed cream. • 23852 Loop 494, Porter • www.facebook.com/potersnoball
9 Little Caesars Located in the new Porter Retail shopping center, this business will offer pizza, wings and Crazy Bread among other menu items available to-go. Construction is expected to wrap up by August, per
an April 8 TDLR filing. • 21451 FM 1314, Porter • www.littlecaesars.com
auto parts, power and hand tools, yard care equipment, clothing and shoes.
In the news
• 23741 Hwy. 59, Porter • www.tractorsupply.com
Relocations
12 Snow Cone Factory Owner Stephen Allison said the snow cone shop reopened for the season on March 8. Founded in 2013 alongside Stephen Allison’s parents, Kenneth and Linda Allison, the business offers over 70 flavors as well as small bites such as nachos and corn. • 23892 Ford Road, Porter • Facebook: Snow Cone Factory 13 Tractor Supply Co. Renovations to expand the store’s sales floor for more products and space between departments, is expected to wrap up by the end of April. The store offers pet supplies,
10 Blue Jay’s Cauldron After closing in November, the game and trading card store will be reopening at a new location in Roman Forest. Owned by Jeremy Miller, the store was previously located at 23435 FM 1314, Ste. A2, Porter, and sells items such as comic books, character trading cards, figurines, 3D-printed items and stickers. • Reopening in late April or early May (after press time) • 1710 Roman Forest Blvd., Roman Forest • www.bluejayscauldron.com
Closings
14 June B’s Snowcones Owned by Junie Brewer—who opened the business at 14 years old in 2020—the snow cone stand offered more than 200 snow cone flavors as well as treats, including ice cream, Mexican corn nachos, wrapped pickles, fried Twinkies and funnel cakes. • Closed April 2 • 21120 Loop 494, New Caney • www.facebook.com/juniebssnowcones
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Government
BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN
Montgomery County to seek courthouse architect Montgomery County commissioners voted 4-1 to advertise for architect services for a new justice center and courthouse facility during their March 26 meeting. Commissioners also discussed potential future nancing options for the project that could include a bond election. Potential funding sources for construction General obligation bonds Certi cates of obligation Public-private partnership
FY 2026 27 budget process to begin Montgomery County commissioners are set to begin work on the county’s scal year 2026-27 budget, with a proposed calendar that lays out a nal adoption date for Sept. 8. What you need to know The budget calendar launched the FY 2026-27 process April 9, with a formal kick-o scheduled for the next Commissioners Court meeting April 23, Budget O cer Amanda Carter said. The rst phase—budget development— runs from April 9 to July 15 and includes training, budget packet distribution and meetings between the budget o ce, department heads and elected o cials about their funding needs, according to the county’s budget schedule.
The architectural services approved will be funded through a court facilities fund and will be for a site adjacent to the Alan B. Sadler Commissioners Court building, according to discussion at the meeting. What happened Precinct 3 Commissioner Ritch Wheeler cast the opposing vote, saying he did not think the new construction should be behind the current building. Wheeler noted the county cannot decide to place a bond on the November ballot until 78-90 days before the election, in August. The cost Montgomery County Treasurer Melanie Bush
Alan B. Sadler Commissioners Court Building
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SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY COMMUNITY IMPACT
said if the county was to hold a bond election, the cost could range from $250 million for a single courthouse building to $700 million for a court- house and jail.
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NEW CANEY PORTER EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY EMILY LINCKE
New Caney ISD trustees OK $750 bonuses for returning staff
All full-time New Caney ISD employees returning in the 2026-27 school year can expect a $750 bonus on their May 5 paycheck after the district’s board of trustees unanimously approved retention stipends April 20. How it happened NCISD employees will receive a $750 retention stipend, should they choose to continue to work at the district for the 2026-27 school year, said Christie Gates, executive director of human resources for NCISD, during trustees’ April 20 regular meeting. The stipends are expected to cost NCISD $2.1 million total, said Scott Powers, NCISD’s execu- tive director of public relations, via email April 21. “When there are finances available, I know that our superintendent, [Matt] Calvert, and ... [the] board have always been very supportive of trying to give that back directly to our employees, if we can,” Gates said.
Read all about it All full-time district employees—from teachers and auxiliary employees to administrators—qualify for the stipend, Gates said. The 2026-27 school year begins on Aug. 6 for students and in late July for employees, per the district calendar. “There are criteria that the employees must meet because our goal is we want them to come back next year to complete their contracts and their work calendars,” Gates said. Employees who are paid a retention stipend but resign before completing their contract for the 2026-27 school year will be required to pay the stipend back to NCISD, Powers said. Looking back On April 21, 2025, NCISD’s board approved reten- tion incentives of $1,000 per full-time returning employee, as previously reported by Community Impact . The stipends were funded by $4.3 million
Retaining employees NCISD is offering
• $750 one-time retention stipends for all returning district employees • Work for NCISD full time • Be in good standing • Sign a contract for the 2026-27 school year • Finish the entire 2026-27 school year contract To qualify, employees must:
The stipends will:
• Be paid out on the May 5 paycheck • Cost the district about $2.1 million total
SOURCE: NEW CANEY ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
in state aid awarded to the district for the 2023-24 fiscal year to offset revenue lost due to a statewide increase in homestead exemptions.
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NEW CANEY - PORTER EDITION
Transportation
BY HANNAH BROL
Upcoming projects
Ongoing projects
242
1 Old Houston Road widening Project: Old Houston Road will be widened from two to four lanes with a turn lane and roadside ditches between Hwy. 242 and FM 1314 in a three-phase project. Update: Final design for Segment 1 is complete, while field work for Segment 2 is underway. Project kickoff for Segment 3 is expected to begin following contract approval in April, Precinct 4 officials said. • Timeline: Segment 1 scheduled to advertise for construction in April, TBD (Segments 2-3) • Cost: TBD • Funding sources: 2025 road bond, Precinct 4 commissioner’s office 2 Gene Campbell Road widening Project: Gene Campbell Road will be widened to five lanes with roadside ditches between FM 1314 and FM 1485. The project will also include improvements at Tree Monkey Road, FM 1314 and FM 1485. Update: The project is in negotiation with a consultant, and project kickoff will begin after contract approval, Precinct 4 officials said. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding sources: 2025 road bond, Precinct 4 commissioner’s office
3 Ford Road widening Project: Ford Road will be widened from two to four lanes with a continuous turn lane between Loop 494 and Ricewood Drive, and reconstructed between Hwy. 59 and Loop 494 and between Ricewood Drive and the county line. The two-phase project also includes modifications to Loop 494, signalization at the Ricewood Drive intersection and reconstructed ditches. Update: Segment 1 is under construction, while final design for Segment 2 is underway, Precinct 4 officials said. • Timeline: October 2025-fourth quarter 2026 (Segment 1), third quarter 2026-TBD (Segment 2) • Cost: $5.9 million (Segment 1), TBD (Segment 2) • Funding sources: 2025 road bond, Precinct 4 commissioner’s office, federal funding secured by U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Kingwood (Segment 2) 4 Sorters Road widening Project: Sorters Road will be widened from two to four lanes with a continuous turn lane and roadside ditches between North Bentwood Channel and Northpark Drive.
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Update: This project is under construction. • Timeline: January 2026-first quarter 2027 • Cost: $15.6 million • Funding sources: 2025 road bond, Precinct 4 commissioner’s office
NORTHPARK DR.
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
Events
BY JOVANNA AGUILAR & HANNAH BROL
Latin Heat Wave Attendees ages 21 and up are invited to head to Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures for an event featuring a DJ with nonstop Latin beats, specialty cocktails and after-hours water park access. • May 15, 7-11 p.m. • $19.99 (admission)
May
Steak Night VFW Post 4816 invites the community to a steak night with all the fixings and Cinco de Mayo margaritas. • May 5, 5:30 p.m. • $22 • 24411 Cunningham Drive, Porter • www.vfw4816.com Shred it EMC 2026 The East Montgomery County Improvement District will host this free document shredding event at The Atrium Center parking lot. • May 9, 8 a.m.-noon • Free • 21575 Hwy. 59, New Caney • www.emctx.com/shred-it-20268 Farewell to New Caney Elementary School With a replacement campus set to be completed this summer, staff, alumni and families are invited to this open house celebrating the original campus. • May 15, 5:30-7 p.m. • Free • 20501 FM 1485, New Caney • www.newcaneyisd.org
• 23101 Hwy. 242, New Caney • www.bigriverswaterpark.com
Girls with Horsepower The Food Zone Grand Texas is holding an all-female car and bike show. Registration is required.
• May 16, 3-8 p.m. • Free (admission)
• 23020 Speed St., New Caney • www.thefoodzonehtx.com
GEMCC’s Annual Grand Prix 2026 Spend the day with the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber and network while racing go karts at Speedsportz Racing Park. The event includes lunch and awards for top finishers. • May 8, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. • $800 (team of five) • 23050 Speed St., New Caney • www.gemcchamber.com
Big Summer Blastoff Kick off the summer at Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures. The water park will be open all day and into the evening for the first Park After Dark of the year, and the night will end with fireworks. • May 23, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. • $44.99 (admission)
• 23101 Hwy. 242, New Caney • www.bigriverswaterpark.com
Wheels over walls From the cover
New options
Since January 2025, at least 12 businesses operating outside of traditional brick-and-mortar storefronts have opened in the New Caney and Porter area.
At a glance
Beverages • Dino Coffee Company • Cinco Vidas Coffee Company Porter • Cinco Vidas Coffee Company New Caney
Owned by Modisty Pruett and Cara Cautreaux, the 1950s-themed mobile soda shop o ers specialty co ee drinks, dirty sodas, lemonade and energy sodas. • Opened June 1, 2025 • 23874 Loop 494, Porter • https://thepopstopck.square.site The Pop Stop
Mobile or nontraditional storefront options may be appealing to business owners because they o er lower barriers to entry, said Mark Linabury, president and CEO of the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber. “The mind immediately goes to food [trucks],” Linabury said. “There are other opportunities out there and … it’s such a great entrepreneurial journey, and the key is to create balance to where everyone can succeed.” As of April 22, almost 370 food trucks alone were operating in Montgomery County, according to the county’s health department. Historical data on food truck permitting counts or on other types of mobile businesses operating in the county was not available as of press time April 24. Bobbi Lynn Donnan, owner of Fur-Vana Mobile Pet Spa—which o ers curbside dog and cat grooming services in East Montgomery County and the Lake Houston area—said she operated from a brick-and-mortar location for 13 years before choosing to go mobile in July. Donnan said she saw a demand to make pet grooming more accessible for elderly clients or people with multiple pets. “It’s a service that I can o er where it’s easy and very convenient for them,” Donnan said. New Caney Community Market regularly works with many local businesses utilizing a mobile or nontraditional business model, owner and manager Megan Stubbs said via email April 12. “These models provide a signi cant level of exibility,” Stubbs said. “They allow business owners to operate in various locations while cultivating a loyal customer base that continues to support them across di erent venues.” Brian and Christina King, owners of Bubbles & Beyond—a mobile laundry service—said they were motivated to open their business to provide customers with a more convenient
Services
Fur-Vana Mobile Pet Spa
Pet groomer Bobbi Lynn Donnan serves dogs and cats via a mobile trailer, providing washes, nail trims and more services curbside at customers’ homes. • Opened July 19, 2025 • Service area includes East Montgomery County and the Lake Houston area • www.facebook.com/furvanmobilepetspa
• Patriot Paws Imaging • Bubbles & Beyond • ByThePour Mobile Bartending Service • A1 Academics K-12 Tutoring Service
Food • Rip N' Tails • Taqueria La Indomable 366 food trucks are currently operating in Montgomery County as of April 22. Did you know?
The Elotito Stop
The food truck o ers Mexican snacks, drinks and desserts, including fresas con crema, ice cream, mini pancakes and nachos. • Opened in June 2025
• 23669 Loop 494, Porter • Facebook: The Elotito Stop
SOURCES: INDIVIDUAL BUSINESSES, MONTGOMERY COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT COMMUNITY IMPACT
timing and consistency all have to be tight every day. If you’re not organized, it falls apart fast.” Donnan agreed that operating a mobile business also comes with a lot of work. “I’ve got to take care of a generator, I’ve got a lot of tires to maintain—so that’s a di erent aspect of things,” Donnan said.
option. The company provides clothing cleaning via pick up and delivery. However, convenience for the customer can sometimes translate to more work for the mobile business owner, the Kings said. “The tradeo is on our side,” the Kings said. “Mobile takes a lot more coordination. Routes,
Quotes of note
“We built this [business] to go to the customer instead of making them come to us. It just makes more sense for how people live now.” BRIAN AND CHRISTINA KING, OWNERS, BUBBLES & BEYOND
“Any business, whatever their business model may be, that is operating safely and following proper regulations are enhancing
“Entrepreneurship and starting a business is still just as exciting as ever, and people are looking for lower barriers
to entry, possibly, to get started without having to go straight to brick-and-mortar.” MARK LINABURY, PRESIDENT
our community by creating jobs and improving our overall access to services.” MATT GRAY, COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT 4
AND CEO, GREATER EAST MONTGOMERY COUNTY CHAMBER
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY EMILY LINCKE
The cost
The other side
Average monthly retail rent per square foot
Linabury said mobile businesses are not unique to New Caney and Porter. However, he speculated that perhaps high pricing for commercial rent opportunities in the area draws business owners to nontraditional storefronts. “In Porter, New Caney, I would say we don’t have an abundance of … lower-lease, lower-rent commercial opportunities for smaller business,” Linabury said. Precinct 4 Commissioner Matt Gray said local growth may be spurring a rise in new businesses. “With our area growing at such a rapid pace, we are seeing an increase not just [in] mobile busi- nesses, but brick-and-mortar storefronts ... as well.” The average monthly rental price for retail spaces was $18.22 per square foot for 2025 in the North Region—which includes the New Caney, Conroe and Spring areas—according to data from Partners Real Estate. However, the average rental price for retail was $20.66 per square foot for the overall Houston region in 2025.
Having a variety of local businesses to shop or eat at can be great for the community, Linabury said. However, he added that mobile businesses can sometimes create challenges for brick-and-mortar businesses. “It depends on if they’re competing directly with an existing brick-and-mortar who has invested a lot of time and money into a successful business, so that could be considered a con. … It really just depends on the [mobile] business and what their future goals are,” Linabury said. Schouten said she and her husband may eventually choose to open a traditional co ee shop, but they don’t want to rush. “We do eventually plan on doing brick-and- mortar, but we also know that sometimes that is a caveat to building things too quickly and too fast,” Schouten said. “Because we’re doing great right now.”
North Region Houston Market total The average monthly rent price per square foot for the North Region was $18.22 for 2025.
$21
$20.87
$20
$20.89
$19
$18.05
$19.90
$18
$0
2024
2025
Q3 Q4 Q1
Q2 Q3 Q4
North Region
59
45
249
99 TOLL
The North Region includes the New Caney, Porter, Spring and Conroe areas.
290
10
10
610
59
N
SOURCE: PARTNERS REAL ESTATE COMMUNITY IMPACT NOTE: DATA ON HOUSTON RETAIL RENT PRICES WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR ALL OF 2024 AS OF PRESS TIME ON APRIL 24.
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NEW CANEY PORTER EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community
BY HANNAH BROL
Water park guide
1
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2
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Montgomery
Conroe
New Caney
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COURTESY BIG RIVERS WATERPARK & ADVENTURES
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45
4
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Katy
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10
5
6 Great Wolf Lodge Webster This climate-controlled indoor water park in Webster also features dryland attractions, lodging and dining. • Open year-round • $34-$55 (half-day pass), $49-$79 (full-day pass), $65-$269 (season pass)
Baytown
9
99 TOLL
Houston
45
COURTESY MARGARITAVILLE LAKE RESORT
Webster
TRINITY BAY
69
8
6
9
GALVESTON BAY
99 TOLL
59
• 1000 Great Wolf Way, Webster • www.greatwolf.com/webster
3
45
Galveston
7
N
COURTESY TYPHOON TEXAS
3 Lagoonfest Texas Boasting over 24 million gallons of crystal blue water, this lagoon located in Texas City features water activities, cabana rentals, bumper boats and white sand beaches. • Opening in May for 2026 season (exact dates TBD) • Ticket pricing TBD, free (ages 2 and under) • 12600 Crystal View Blvd., Texas City • www.lagoonfesttexas.com 4 Margaritaville Lake Resort Situated alongside Lake Conroe, this resort features a 3-acre water park with a lazy river, splash zone, private beach, heated infinity and water slide pools, water slides, hot tubs and swim-up bars. Day passes also grant access to mini-golf, arcade games and tennis and pickleball courts. • Open year-round; water slides opened March 6 for spring break season • $20-$119 (day pass), free (ages 5 and younger) • 600 Margaritaville Parkway, Montgomery • www.margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-lake- resort-lake-conroe 5 Pirates Bay Waterpark This pirate-themed water park in Baytown offers a wave pool, a lazy river, water slides and a surfing simulator. • Open daily beginning May 23; weekends only Aug. 15-Sept. 20 • $35.99 (daily admission), $79 (season pass) • 5300 East Road, Baytown • www.baytownpiratesbay.com
7 Schlitterbahn Galveston Waterpark Rivers connect three distinct park sections at this water park in Galveston, which features water slides, raft rides, pools, water coasters and water playgrounds. • Open select days May 2-Sept. 7 • $42-$90 (daily admission), $89-$150 (season pass) • 2109 Gene Lucas Blvd., Galveston • www.sixflags.com/schlitterbahngalveston 8 Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown A surfing simulator, water slide racers and relaxing lagoons are just a few of the attractions at this water park in Spring. • Open select days May 2-Sept. 7 • $25-$60 (daily ticket), $65-$135 (season pass),
From water parks built for thrill-seekers to tranquil lagoons perfect for relaxing, there are several ways for Houston-area residents to cool off this summer. This list is not comprehensive. 1 Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures Located in New Caney, this water park also features amusement park rides, an inflatable course, zip lines, ax-throwing, a maze, a gator exhibit and a petting zoo. • Open for Spring Adventure days in March; all water attractions open select days April 3-Sept. 30 • $19.99 (single-use day ticket March 7-29), $44.99 (single-use day ticket April 3-Sept. 30), $99.99 (season pass), free (ages 2 and under) 2 Conroe Aquatic Center Water Park Conroe Aquatic Center’s water park has a capacity that is frequently reached and may result in a waitlist, per the website. Admission to the water park is not included with facility memberships; however, those with valid memberships receive half-price admission. • Open select days May 23-Sept. 6 • $10 (season pass or daily guest pass for ages 3 and older), $5 (membership admission for ages 3 and • 23101 Hwy. 242, New Caney • www.bigriverswaterpark.com
free (ages 2 and under) • 21300 I-45 N., Spring • www.sixflags.com/splashtown
9 Typhoon Texas Waterpark Located in Katy, attractions at this water park include a lazy river, a wave pool, multiple water slides and activities for younger swimmers. • Open select days April 11-Sept. 20 • $39.99-$59.99 (any-day tickets), $64.99 (season
passes), free (ages 2 and under) • 555 S. Katy Fort Bend Road, Katy • www.typhoontexas.com/houston
older), free (ages 2 and under) • 1207 Candy Cane Lane, Conroe • www.cityofconroe.org
17
NEW CANEY - PORTER EDITION
Business
BY JOVANNA AGUILAR
Prime Patio & Landscape o ers arti cial turf services.
Prime Lawn rebranded in 2025 to Prime Patio & Landscape to re ect the wide variety of services the business o ers.
PHOTOS COURTESY PRIME PATIO & LANDSCAPE
Prime Patio & Landscape designs personal sanctuaries
Matt Gri n founded Prime Patio & Landscape in 1999.
Prime Lawn, a company that started as a business plan developed for a college project, was o cially established in Porter by Matt Gri n in 1999. Originally founded as a landscaping business, over the years Prime Lawn expanded to o er various services from irrigation and drainage to lighting, property master plans, outdoor kitchens and arti cial turf. In turn, the company rebranded in 2025 to Prime Patio & Landscape, Gri n said. Staying local Starting with two employees, today the com- pany operates with a sta of 20 certi ed Interlock- ing Concrete Paver Institute employees. “In the late ‘90s, while in high school, I mowed grass for another company, and that’s where I learned to cut lawns. And I never really thought that was what I would end up doing. And so it just kind of evolved,” Gri n said. In addition to his knowledge of mowing lawns, Gri n said he earned a degree in horticulture and agronomy and landscape architecture. Along with a storefront in Porter, which opened in 2025, Gri n said Prime Patio & Landscape o ers residential and commercial services in neigh- boring north Houston communities, including Kingwood, Atascocita, The Woodlands and Spring. At the storefront, customers can nd a material supply yard with mulch, aggregates and displays of some of the features that can be built to create outdoor sanctuaries.
What’s special about it? As more people enjoy holding family gatherings at home, Prime Patio & Landscape designs outdoor patios in residential homes to o er customers their own personal sanctuary with features such as outdoor kitchens, Gri n said. Gri n said the company has most recently encountered projects such as outdoor lighting services and porcelain tile projects. “Porcelain tiles are really di cult to chip, and you can get them to look like concrete or wood or whatever you want, and they’re really popular. And they’re great because there’s really very little maintenance to them, and they’re slip-resistant,” Gri n said. Other trends seen are due to the cost needed to maintain outdoor properties. “What I’m seeing is that the cost to maintain those properties are so much greater than they used to be, and so minimizing landscape and still making it look like it’s full and lush is a huge key ... and the way you do that is you manipulate your landscape design to present as if it’s a lot of land- scape, even though it’s really not,” Gri n said. Check it out Prime Patio & Landscape o ers consultations in which customers are asked to come with questions to allow sta to form a detailed and e cient plan and maximize their investment.
Services o ered
Hardscape installation
• Paver patios, walkways and driveways • Retaining walls • Fire pits and outdoor ireplaces Outdoor living and design • Custom outdoor kitchens • Outdoor sound systems and TVs • Pergolas • Outdoor lighting installation
Landscaping and lawn maintenance
• Full landscape design • Plantings and sod installation • Arti icial turf • Premium lawn maintenance
FOREST TRAIL
N
23109 Ford Road, Porter www.primelawn.com
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Nonpro t
BY WESLEY GARDNER
The Village Thrift Shop might appear to be a typical resale shop, but the services it provides go far beyond simply sales. How it works The thrift shop, which opened in Porter in 2013, o ers individuals with intellectual and develop- mental disabilities a place to work, volunteer and practice social and vocational skills, said store Manager Latonya Boyd. Boyd noted The Village Thrift Shop works under the umbrella of The Village Centers, a Kingwood-based nonpro t that o ers a number of support services aimed at helping individuals with disabilities and special needs expand their social and life skills, personal wellness and vocational skills. The thrift store itself sells clothing, seasonal decor items, furniture, artwork, athletic equipment, toys and more, Boyd said, noting 100% of the proceeds go on to bene t The Village Centers. A closer look Boyd said many of the individuals who attend The Village Centers volunteer to assist with a number of tasks at the shop, including assisting with the intake of donations, placing merchandise on the oor, cleaning and other tasks. “All the basic needs and things that we do to upkeep the store, the Villagers help with those items,” Boyd said. Boyd added volunteer and work opportunities are not restricted to Villagers. Individuals with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities are welcome to volunteer at the nonpro t, as well. For donations, Boyd said the thrift shop accepts most items as long as they’re gently used and still in good condition, but she said the store has a particular need for furniture. “Right now, we’re in need of some really good furniture,” Boyd said. “As soon as it comes in, it goes right back out.” Monetary donations can be made through the nonpro t’s website or directly at the thrift shop. Why it matters For Celeste Reiss, the thrift shop’s lead of sales and merchandising, the most rewarding aspect of working at the store is being able to spend time with the volunteers. “They’re all so special and they’re all so di er- ent,” Reiss said. “They’re just such a joy to work with, and I’ve learned a lot from them as well.” The Village Thrift Shop buildsjobskills,con dence
To schedule a furniture donation pickup, donors can email a photo of the item to thirft@thevillagecenters.org.
PHOTOS BY WESLEY GARDNER COMMUNITY IMPACT
Daily deals While The Village Thrift Shop o ers daily discounts to seniors age 55 and older, teachers, veterans and rst responders, the store also features daily deals, including:
Spin-the-Wheel Wednesday: Customers can spin a “Wheel of Fortune”-style wheel for discounts of up to 50%. Blue Bag Thursday: Customers can buy a blue bag, ill the bag and save 50% on all items. Additional special rotating sales are held on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.
The thrift shop sells clothing, toys and games.
SOURCE: THE VILLAGE THRIFT SHOP COMMUNITY IMPACT
59
494
E.KNOXDR.
N
25432 Loop 494, Porter www.thevillagecenters.org/the-village-thrift-shop
Pictured, from left, are Manager Latonya Boyd and Lead of Sales and Merchandising Celeste Reiss.
19
NEW CANEY PORTER EDITION
Real estate
Approximately 25 fewer homes sold in March 2026 than in March 2025 across the two ZIP codes combined that make up Community Impact’s New Caney-Porter coverage area. Additionally, nearly 70% of homes sold were in the $200,000-$399,999 price range. Residential market data
March 2025
March 2026
Homes sold by price point in March 2026
77357
77365
1
2 6
$800,000+
-
$600,000-$799,999
6
24 42
$400,000-$599,999
67
$200,000-$399,999
6
3
<$199,999
242
OLD HOUSTON RD.
Number of homes sold
Average days on market
77357
59
99 TOLL
-36.51%
+37.5%
+2.7%
-18.3%
1314
77365
N
Average home price in the last six months
77357
77365
77357
77365
77357 $288,840
Median home sales price
March
2025
2026
77365 $368,338
$261,000
$262,745
77357
MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY DEBORAH ROSE REAL ESTATE, POWERED BY EXP 281-380-0332 • DEBORAHROSEREALTOR@GMAIL.COM HUMBLE ISD EDUCATION FOUNDATION DIRECTOR 2026 FIVE STAR LEGENDS
$359,000
$370,000
77365
Promote your business
Coming Soon! Community Impact’s Home Guide
Scan, call 512.989.1000 or email ads@communityimpact.com
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Br
f p m ==
Experience the extraordinary flavors of New York-Style Pizza handcrafted in Austin.
With
16
New Caney’s Tastiest Deal Is Here! free medium pizza, see offer
free delivery available austin - 737.222.5373 10721 Research Blvd., Austin, TX 78759 AUS-012023
u
Valid for
scan code to ORDER ONLINE
NOW SERVING GELATO! ONLY AT THE NEW CANEY LOCATION
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 5/31/26 FREE MEDIUM CHEESE PIZZA LARGE PIZZAS GET A WITH CODE FREECHZ DINE-IN, DELIVERY AND TO GO ORDERS BUY TWO
21572 Market Pl Dr. #100, New Caney • (281)354-4815
21
NEW CANEY PORTER EDITION
New Porter showroom Now Open!
donuts donuts
The Art of Light Control blinds • shutters • shades • drapes solar screens • privacy tinted films
T THIS GE
4421 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood, TX 77339 (Inside Kings Crossing) YONUTZ KINGWOOD d Drive Kingwood
FREEDONUT DOWNLOAD THE YONUTZ APP & GET 20 %
MOTHER’S DAY DONUTS PRE-ORDER NOW! CATERING AVAILABLE 346-785-7782
25% OFF ALS BRAND PRODUCTS Mention Communtiy Impact
OFF
ENTIRE ORDER *certain restrictions apply
23951 FM 1314 Rd Porter TX | 281-787-4145 Book Now!
*certain restrictions apply
WHERE FAMILY & FRIENDS COME TOGETHER
A Kingwood tradition since 1985 LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
OBSERVATION KITCHEN • OUTDOOR PATIOS PRIVATE PARTY ROOM • DYNAMIC BAR
$ 15 OFF Sunday thru Wednesday. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on holidays or special events. One coupon per table. Dine in at Raffa’s only.Must present coupon.Expires 6-11-2026. WITH PURCHASE OF TWO DINNER ENTREES
CATERING MENU • PRIVATE ROOM AVAILABLE GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE
WITH PURCHASE OF TWO DINNER ENTREES 22704 Loop 494 | Kingwood, TX 77339 | www.amedeos.net | 281-359-4451 $ 15 OFF Monday thru Thursday. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on holidays or special events. One coupon per table. Dine in at Amedeo’s only. Must present coupon. Expires 6-11-2026. WITH PURCHASE OF TWO DINNER ENTREES
Gift Cards Available
1660 W Lake Houston Pkwy Suite 103 Kingwood, TX 77339 www.raffas.net • 281-360-1436
CALL FOR RESERVATIONS
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Discover your next treasure CURATED VINTAGE HOME GOODS • ACCENTS • APPAREL
$ 5 off of $ 30 MENTION COMMUNITY IMPACT
20360 FM 1314, Porter • jcovintage.com Wed - Sat 10 - 5 • Sunday 12 - 5
Exp. 5/31/26
Imagine your home, totally organized!
40 % O ff Plus Free Installation PLUSTAKE AN EXTRA 15 % O ff Terms and Conditions: 40% off any order of $980 or more, 30% off any order of $680 or more, on any Closets, Garages, Home offices, or other products with any complete unit purchase. Take an additional 15% off any order of $980 or more. Free installation with any complete unit order of $850 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Offers and prices are subject to change without notice. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Offer Expires on 5/31/2026. Offer not valid in all regions. SPECIAL FINANCING FOR18MONTHS With approved credit. Call or ask your Designer for details. Not available in all areas.
Custom Closets, Garage Cabinets , Home Office, Pantries, Laundries , Wall Beds, Wall Units, Hobby Rooms, Garage Flooring and more...
Call for a free in home design consultation and estimate 832-554-4544 CI
www.closetsbydesign.com Locally Owned and Operated.
23
NEW CANEY PORTER EDITION
At Memorial Hermann, we believe finish lines don’t exist. For our patients and the health of our community, our work is never done. Each milestone inspires us to look ahead—to relentlessly improve care, innovate for the future and to see that the medicine of tomorrow is even better than today. It is our promise to not only advance health but to personalize care, for you and for generations to come. Relentlessly pushing health and care forward.
Advancing health. Personalizing care.
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