Pearland - Friendswood Edition | March 2025

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Pearland Friendswood Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 4 MARCH 17APRIL 14, 2025

2025 Camp Guide

Home insurance premiums ‘unsustainable’ in area

property damage to their home last July due to concerns they wouldn’t be able to renew their policy, Peter Kochunov said. Texas has some of the highest home insurance premiums in the nation, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research. These rates and the resulting cost are leading many in the area to forgo home insurance altogether.

BY RACHEL LELAND

After moving from Maryland, Peter and Alice Kochunov bought their Pearland home in 2023 but found their home insurance bill was 10 times that of their policy in Maryland. Those rates prompted the

couple to avoid ling a claim after Hurricane Beryl caused over $15,000 in

CONTINUED ON 16

Pearland resident Alice Kochunov and her husband Peter had their windows and roof damaged in Hurricane Beryl. The couple opted to pay $15,000 out of pocket for repairs.

RACHEL LELANDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Also in this issue

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Impacts: Read about what Doglegs Golf Lounge in Pearland is oering customers who are interested in learning about the game (Page 6)

Development: Learn about the timeline for the new Pearland Asian Town development coming to the area (Page 20)

Advanced care to put cancer behind you.

Fighting cancer starts with having the right team beside you. And at Memorial Hermann, we’re here for you every step of the way. As one of Houston’s leading providers of cancer treatment, we offer advanced care from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship. With locations throughout Greater Houston, you can find care close to you. This is comprehensive cancer care designed for you. memorialhermann.org/cancer

Advancing health. Personalizing care.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Canterra Creek is a premier master-planned community conveniently located along Hwy 288 just south of Pearland, providing easy access to major employers, exceptional dining, exciting entertainment and a variety of shopping. When you come home to Canterra Creek, your best life is just beginning.

• 20-minute drive to the Med Center • Leisure pool for hours of relaxing • Access to the nearby Sierra Vista Amenity Village anchored by a heated lazy river • Two future on-site schools

AMENITY VILLAGE NOW OPEN!

Meet Our Family of Builders!

* Prices and availability of homes are subject to change without notice. On-site school details and access to Sierra Vista Amenity Village subject to change without notice. Canterra Creek pool access and other amenity features are subject to a seasonal opening schedule. 2/25

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 Asia Armour Angela Bonilla Melissa Enaje Valeria Escobar Wesley Gardner Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Ryan Reynolds Nichaela Shaheen Jessica Shorten Haley Velasco Aubrey Vogel Kevin Vu Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Papar Faircloth General Manager pfaircloth@ communityimpact.com

Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White Ronald Winters Account Executive Lindsay Radenz Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Product Manager Kaitlin Schmidt Quality Desk Editor Sierra Rozen

James T. Norman Editor jnorman@ communityimpact.com

Jason Culpepper Houston Market President jculpepper@ communityimpact.com

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PEARLAND FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Impacts

FUQUA ST.

288

BLACKHAWK BLVD.

SHADOW CREEK PKWY.

MCHARD RD.

Pearland

W. BROA D W A

WOODLAND TRAIL DR.

WALNUT ST.

Friendswood

M AGNOLIA PKWY.

NASA PKWY.

BAILEY A V E .

EGRET BAY BLVD.

MCKEEVER RD.

528

2351

288

MAP NOT TO SCALE

6 Taquito & Co. The Latin-inspired restaurant offers breakfast and lunch options. It will offer counter service and serve tacos, breakfast sandwiches, tamales and taquitos. • Opening Feb. 8 • 214 S. Friendswood Drive, Ste. A, Friendswood • www.taquitoandco.com 7 Pho Prime The restaurant will offer spring rolls, beef noodle soup, coconut chicken curry and a variety of pho bowls. • Opened Feb. 22 • 9240 Broadway St., Ste. 115, Pearland • www.phoprime.com 8 Peach Cobbler Factory The dessert business offers a variety of cobblers blended with vanilla bean ice cream. • Opened Feb. 28 • 12810 Broadway St., Ste. 140, Pearland • www.peachcobblerfactory.com

cookie-based products, such as cookie cakes. • Opened Jan. 23 • 17221 Hwy. 6, Ste. 106, Manvel • www.greatamericancookiesandmarbleslabcreamery. com 4 CrabMee Arcade The entertainment venue has multiple claw machines filled with plushies and gachapon capsule toys—which are either filled with collectible figures or treats. • Opened Jan. 25 • 19014-A Gulf Freeway, Friendswood • www.crabmee.com 5 Havertys The business is known for its wide variety of furnishings, fabrics and finishes, as well as its complimentary design service. • Opened Feb. 7 • 1519 W. Bay Area Blvd., Webster • www.havertys.com

Now open

1 Rose Tea House The business serves coffee, milk tea, boba, soft cakes and other fresh baked goods. • Opened late December • 3414 Business Center Drive, Ste. 160, Pearland • Instagram: rose.teahouse 2 Friendswood Veterinary Hospital The clinic offers routine wellness checkups, emergency care and advanced treatments, among other services for pets. • Opened Jan. 6 • 111 Woodland Trail Drive, Friendswood • www.friendswoodveterinaryhospital.com 3 Marble Slab Creamery & Great American Cookies The shop serves over 50 flavors of ice cream and includes a number of options for toppings, as well as

YES, WE DO.

4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit *Fees could apply Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank *Fees could apply Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit *Fees could apply Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit

commitment to serving the Pearland community.

4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses*

4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit 4 Free app for your smartphone 4 Send money to friends and family using their email or phone number* 4 Instant debit card transaction alerts with SecurLock Equip 4 Move money easily between external accounts* 4 Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! 4 Instant-issue debit cards 4 Online bill pay 4 Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool 4 Money Management – create your own budget online! 4 Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses 4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses*

YES, WE DO.

Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager 4 Free app for your smartphone 4 Send money to friends and family using their email or phone number* 4 Instant debit card transaction alerts with SecurLock Equip 4 Move money easily between external accounts* 4 Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! 4 Instant-issue debit cards 4 Online bill pay 4 Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool 4 Money Management – create your own budget online! 4 Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses 4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses*

*Fees could apply Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit

We have a wide range of competitive personal and business banking services. And with that full-service convenience banking comes our HomeTown, accessible team of friendly staff members and their commitment to serving the Pearland community. Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager

OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank *Fees could apply

*Fees could apply

Loan decisions are made locally by people who

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

9 Pearland Coffee Roasters The shop offers a variety of lattes and drinks such as cold brews, teas and coffee, among other items. • Grand opened March 7 • 201 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • www.pearlandcoffeeroasters.com 10 Marco’s Pizza The location will serve a number of different types of pizza. • Opened Feb. 20 • 9340 Fuqua St., Ste. C, Houston • www.marcos.com 11 Dunkin’ Donuts The national chain will sell coffee in various forms, including iced, cold brew and nitro-infused, as well as different drinks such as iced tea. • Opened March 7 • 10201 Broadway St., Ste. 125, Pearland • www.dunkindonuts.com

Now open

15 Best Lesson Ever! The business will teach lessons in voice, guitar, piano, drums and ukulele. Other services include intro to music, a young artist academy and “join the band,” where students can come together and create a band. Monthly performance opportunities, as well as a few rock band classes, will also be available for students. • Opened March 1 • 3222 FM 528 Road, Friendswood • www.bestlessonever.com 16 Zero Latency VR This virtual reality entertainment cafe will offer food and immersive video game experiences. • Opening April 5 • 20801 Gulf Freeway, Ste. 5, Webster • www.zerolatencyvr.com

18 Doglegs Golf Lounge The business will offer options for those interested in practicing or playing golf in a lounge setting. Services include membership options, a full bar, a driving range, special events, golf lessons and golf simulators, including over 150,000 simulated golf courses. There are also Putt-Putt courses for

children available. • Opened Feb. 27

Coming soon

• 1823 Broadway St., Pearland • www.doglegsgolflounge.com

12 Parlor Doughnuts The shop serves layered donuts with flavors including french toast, maple bacon, peanut butter cup, strawberry shortcake and lemon bar, among other flavors. • Opening early April

19 Johnson Space Center The center announced Feb. 24 it will have a new acting director. Stephen Koerner will take over for Vanessa Wyche, who was promoted to a new role within NASA. • 2101 E. NASA Parkway, Houston • www.nasa.gov

• 15818 S. Hwy. 288, Pearland • www.parlordoughnuts.com

13 Angry Chickz Webster The restaurant will feature customizable spice levels and its signature spicy chicken tenders. • Opening late March • 18207 Egret Bay Blvd., Webster • www.angrychickz.com 14 VIA 313 This Austin-based pizza brand will serve a variety of Detroit-style pizzas. • Opening spring 2025 • 9250 Broadway St., Ste. 190, Pearland • www.via313.com

In the news

Worth the trip

17 HCA Houston Pearland The hospital celebrated its 10-year anniversary in early February. • 11100 Shadow Creek Parkway, Pearland • www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/locations/pearland

The Rustic The restaurant offers local craft beers, cocktails and a

variety of food. • Opened Feb. 3 • 7800 Airport Blvd., Houston • www.therustic.com

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JOY OF DANCE AND MUSIC AND EXPERIENCE THE JOY O DANCE MUSIC

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Government

BY JAMES T. NORMAN

Manvel looks at next steps following vote against 12-acre development

What's next?

“This development really does not make sense for the city of Manvel. Not right here and not right now.” ANGELA VICKERMAN, MANVEL RESIDENT

Manvel City Council on Feb. 18 unanimously voted down a new project that would have seen a convenience store and gas station set up shop near Del Bello Road and Croix Road. The vote came after numerous residents voiced opposition to the project. Reasons for opposition included increased traffic concerns, lighting and a lack of infrastructure and in the area. The project would have rezoned roughly 12 acres of land to a light commercial district and included a special use permit to build out the business, city documents show. Commercial consultant Desiree Waraksa, who represents the owner of the land, said it would have been carried out in phases to deal with a lack of infrastructure.

CROIX RD.

Rejected development location

Waraksa said March 4 it’s too early to tell what the next stage is for the project. She said those with the project felt it would help the area develop needed infrastructure in phases but do so without requiring a huge, unfeasible footprint. Mayor Dan Davis said the city will look at possible opportunities for the site. “As the area continues to grow, we’ll continue working to ensure any development aligns with the needs and vision of our community,” he said.

DEL BELLO LN.

0 gas stations within 2-mile radius

12.6 acres in size

7-0 votes against at City Council and PD&Z

4K vehicles travel in area per day

SOURCE: CITY OF MANVEL/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Government

BY RACHEL LELAND

Friendswood ups permit fees for residential, commercial buildings Those setting up properties in Friendswood will now face raised fees for permits, inspections, solicitations and towing after the city approved increases. What you need to know Friendswood City Council voted to increase several fees at its March 3 meeting, citing that many of the fees had not been updated in decades and that there was a need to pay for increased staff time spent conducting inspections. The old fees were last updated in 1995, Director of Community Development Aubrey Harbin said. Documents show the new fees are based in part on what surrounding cities are charging. City Manager Morad Kabiri said the increases could help reduce the burden on taxpayers.

Rate changes by property type* Residential home

Rezoned land

OILER DR.

Pearland

+$25 +$55 +$95

Electrical Plumbing Mechanical

Commercial property Electrical Plumbing Mechanical

Pearland rezones 7.6 acres of land

+$157 +$39 +$10

Swimming school permit* Electrical Plumbing

A piece of land totaling 7.6 acres near Pearland ISD Stadium was rezoned from res- idential to commercial following Pearland City Council’s approval on Feb. 10. The gist Pearland City Council at its Feb. 10 meeting approved rezoning the land, which is undeveloped and located at the northwest corner of Main Street and Bailey Road. It will allow a variety of businesses to come to the area, city documents show.

+$44 +$22

Generator permit Electrical Plumbing General fees Building reinspection Towing fee

+$43 +$15

+$65 +$175 flat fee

*RESIDENT OR COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES NOTE: INCREASES ARE BASED ON BENCHMARK RATES PROVIDED BY CITY

SOURCE: CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

Education

BY HALEY VELASCO

Alvin and Pearland ISDs discussed their respective 2023-24 Texas Accountability Performance Reports, or TAPR, at their February board meetings. Among the topics discussed included each district’s college, career and military readiness ratings. The 2023-24 TAPR results, which were released in December, are behind by a year with the latest data being from the 2022-23 school year. For years, college, career and military readiness, or CCMR, has been a part of the Texas Education Agency, or TEA, accountability system. For a student to be considered ready, they must meet several general criteria, including testing scores and industry certifications, among other criteria, PISD’s Director of Secondary Instruction Bonnie Scheidt said. However, changing criteria have made it difficult for local districts to adjust, officials from both local school districts said. Meanwhile, PISD has surpassed the state and region in CCMR performance based on the recently released TAPR results. AISD, however, has been below the state’s percentages in CCMR since 2018, TEA data shows. Despite this, officials said the district is projecting a 3% increase in its CCMR percentage in the upcoming 2023-24 report— up from 76% in the 2022-23 school year. Student readiness improves for local school districts

Diving in deeper

College, career and military readiness results

Some of what Alvin and Pearland ISDs offer to get students college, career or military ready includes dual credit, AP courses and CTE courses. Brent Shaw, AISD’s chief of accountability and assessment, said AISD has “significantly expanded” its AP, dual credit and CTE course offerings in recent years. PISD during the 2023-24 school year began offering Texas College Bridge, a course for seniors struggling with college entrance exams to help them get into a community college or four-year university, Scheidt said. Along with the course, PISD is also offering opportunities for students to take the SAT and TSI exams during the school day, Scheidt said.

2018-19 2021-22

2019-20 2022-23

2020-21

50%

100%

70.7%

Alvin ISD

76%

79.2%

Pearland ISD

80.2%

86.3%

Friendswood ISD

Looking ahead

82.7%

To help bolster its score, AISD has created a monitoring system to track high school students earning CCMR credit. This system is a combination of the TEA tracker file and a third- party software program, Shaw said. Scheidt said PISD counsels each student to help them find their career based on their interests. “We’re raising contributing members to society and counseling each student based upon their interests and what their needs are,” Scheidt said.

72%

Region

73.9%

72.9%

State

76.3%

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY JAMES T. NORMAN & HALEY VELASCO

AISD approves almost $3M in bond projects Alvin ISD’s board of trustees approved two construction contracts totaling nearly $2.9 million at its Feb. 11 meeting. The contracts are to provide vestibule upgrades at eight schools, which are a part of the $380.1 million bond that passed in November, as previ- ously reported by Community Impact. The pair of vestibule projects are the first projects approved from the new bond. The overview The contracts were split in two packages of ves- tibule upgrades, according to agenda documents. Officials did not specify at the meeting when construction would begin for the vestibule projects. However, Community Impact previously reported the projects will potentially occur in three phases over summers 2025-27 in order to prevent disruptions during the school year.

Friendswood ISD OKs 8 new staff positions Friendswood ISD’s board of trustees on Feb. 10 approved a slate of new teachers and various staff members for the upcoming 2025-26 school year. What you need to know The item was a staff request with eight total new staff members—seven of which will work at Friendswood High School, according to agenda documents. Those staff members include: • An assistant principal at Cline Elementary for $75K • A dance teacher at the FHS for $68K • A percussion director at FHS for $68K • Five teachers at FHS for $68K each The staff members will be paid out of the district’s general fund, documents show.

Schools receiving vestibule upgrades

1 Alvin Junior High 2 Brothers Elementary 3 Hood Case Elementary 4 Jeter Elementary

5 Marek Elementary 6 Passmore Elementary 7 Rise Academy 8 Sanchez Elementary

SH TOLL

Friendswood

Pearland

Frenso

288

Manvel

6 7

Hillcrest

SOURCE: ALVIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Friday, March 28

Bag of Donuts, Spazmatics and Dos Borrachos feat. Roger Creager & Kevin Fowler

Saturday, March 29

The Dyllan Culp Band, Reputation “A Taylor Swift Tribute,” Jay “La Voz” Perez, David Lee Garza y los Musicales and Los Igualados

NEW HOMES AVAILABLE NOW

No MUD or HOA • One and Two-Story Plans • Historic Designs

2 Days of LIVE Music - Country, Pop & Tejano CBA Sanctioned BBQ Cook-Off, Food Trucks, Retail Vendors, Kids Zone, Beer Garden & more!

Visit us Online sbbtexas.com

Why You’ll Love Pearland Old Townsite: • Southern architectural designs + modern interiors • Energy-efficient homes, low-maintenance living • Convenient proximity and high walkability • Total tax rate 2.2214 / School District: Pearland ISD • Scan the QR Code to view inventory & pricing!

Stay up to date at alvinmusicfestival.com

Sales Consultant: Sam Pantoja / 713-823-5842 Connect with us on social (IG & FB): @sbbpearland

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY ASIA ARMOUR

March

5K Fun Run This race benefits nonprofit organization The Mountain on MastersRoad, which provides resources for Brazoria County families in need. The race starts at the Church on MastersRoad. • March 22, 8-10 a.m. • $45 (5K), $20 (kids 1K), free (cheering section and sponsorship) • The Church on MastersRoad: 6911 Masters Road, Manvel • Facebook: The Mountain on MastersRoad Pearland Youth Business and Career Expo This event takes place at the Hilton Garden Inn and will feature a “Shark Tank”-inspired innovation showcase competition for children; career booths with representatives from colleges and other organizations; a business Jeopardy game; and networking opportunities. • March 29, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • $3 (general entry), $25 (innovation showcase) • Hilton Garden Inn: 12101 Shadow Creek Parkway, Pearland • www.gbpearland.org Beads & Brunch One Glance Jewelry Supply and Design in Friendswood will host this potluck brunch event where attendees will spend time crafting, creating, shopping and socializing. • March 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • 607 S. Friendswood Drive, Ste. 30, Friendswood • www.oneglancejewelry.com

Hello Kitty Cafe Truck Friendswood The branded truck returns to Baybrook Mall for shoppers to get treats and merchandise—including t-shirts, plush dolls, tote bags and pastries while supplies last. The truck will be parked on the lawn

Puranava Indian Art & Culture Fest This cultural festival takes place at Pearland Town Center this spring. It will feature stage and street performances of classic and folk dances from different regions across India; a kids zone with arts and crafts; opportunities to shop for ethnic Indian dressings and jewelry; Indian street food; henna;

by Gloria’s Latin Cuisine. • March 22, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. • Free (admission) • 500 Baybrook Mall Drive, Friendswood • Facebook: Hello Kitty Cafe Truck

and cultural competitions. • April 19, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • 11200 Broadway St., Pearland • www.pearlandtowncenter.com

The Famous Market Shop & Hop This inaugural Easter-themed shopping experience by The Famous Market takes place at Pearland Town Center. It features over 60 local vendors, Easter Bunny photo opportunities from 2-4 p.m., food and a free kids zone with face painting. • April 6, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • Pearland Town Center: 11200 Broadway St., Pearland • www.pearlandtowncenter.com Brookside Village Farmers Market This nonprofit-sponsored event takes place at Lawhon Elementary School every second Sunday of each month and highlights the local agriculture of northern Brazoria County. There will be fresh produce, eggs, meat, honey, baked goods, crafts, coffee, food trucks and live music.

• April 13, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • Free (admission) • Lawhon Elementary: 5810 Brookside Road, Pearland • www.brooksidevillagemarket.com Learn About Snakes Lone Star Snakes, a wildlife education and relocation organization serving northern Brazoria County and surrounding areas, will have a booth at assisted living center Village on the Park Friendswood in support of Alzheimer’s research and awareness. Attendees will learn about and meet some native snakes. • April 16, noon-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • 400 E. Parkwood Drive, Friendswood • Facebook: Lone Star Snakes

April

Spring Fest Attendees will welcome the turn of the seasons with this first-ever festival at Independence Park, which will feature rides and interactive attractions, live entertainment, a craft market and local food vendors. • April 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • Independence Park: 3449 Pearland Parkway, Pearland • www.parks.pearlandtx.gov

Follow the tracks to Grand Boulevard for a spring celebration of the Old Townsite district. SAT. APRIL 26 • 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M.

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Community

Camp Guide

2025

Chess Camp - The Knight School This camp offers multiple week-long sessions throughout the summer, which involves learning new chess tactics each day through puzzles and movies, as well as chess tournaments. Type: day Ages: K-sixth grade

Alvin

Pasadena

Victory Camp This is an inter-denominational camp that offers day and overnight camps. Activities include Bible lessons, swimming, outdoor activities and crafts.

Armand Bayou Nature Center - EcoCamp EcoCamp offers active outdoor experiences, such as fishing, canoeing, pond exploration, insect collecting, bird watching, hiking and dip netting. Type: day Ages: 4-13 Dates: June-August Cost: $170-$330 (per week), $60-$75 (single day) • 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena • www.abnc.org

Dates: June-July Cost: $175-$450 • 1809 Streamside Drive, Friendswood • www.theknightschool.com

Type: day, overnight Ages: first-12th grade Dates: June, varies on camp Cost: $250-$279 (per camp) • 1407 Victory Lane, Alvin • www.victorycamp.com

Manvel

Friendswood

Pearland

SMART Core Labs This education-based business offers engaging and educational activities, hands-on science, technology, engineering, art and math, or STEAM, projects, robotics and coding. The business also has a location in Pearland. Type: academics Ages: 5-10+ Dates: May-August Cost: $325 (per week) • 10237 Bailey Road, Ste. 105, Manvel • www.smartcorelabs.com Ivy Kids of Manvel This camp offers engaging activities with themed weeks that involve crafts, sports, cooking, coding, reading and games. Type: academics Ages: 5-12

Generate YM360 Summer Camp - First Baptist Friendswood

A B Sea Preschool The preschool offers a summer camp for activities, including gardening, crafts and cooking, among other activities. Type: academics Ages: 2-8 Dates: June-July Cost: $260 (per week) • 4540 Broadway St., Pearland • www.abseapreschool.com Alpha Omega Gymnastics & Dance This gym and dance academy offers themed camp weeks, which involve culture, crafts, science, fine arts, gymnastics, dance, in-house field trips and a water day. Type: arts, sports Ages: 3+ Dates: June-August Cost: $177-$293 per week • 11720 W. Broadway St., Ste. 136, Pearland • www.pearland.alphaomegagymnastics.com

This is a week-long camp, in which students who completed sixth to 12th grade in the 2024-25 school year can travel to Dayton, Tennessee. The students will stay at the Bryan College campus to learn more about religious faith. Type: overnight, traveling Ages: sixth-12th grade Dates: June 1-6 Cost: $449-$499 (varies by registration date)

• 111 E. Heritage Drive, Friendswood • www.firstbaptistfriendswood.org

Friendswood Summer Day Camp This camp features activities in arts and crafts, games, swimming, team and individual sports, as well as field trips to local parks and attractions.

Dates: May-August Cost: call for pricing • 4434 County Road 94, Manvel • www.ivykids.com

Type: day Ages: 6-13 Dates: May-August Cost: $150-$305 • 901 Buckingham Drive, Friendswood • www.ci.friendswood.tx.us/565/ friendswood-summer-day-camp

April 10th Pearland Knights of Columbus Hall

Scan for tickets and more info

RECYCLED FASHION SHOW

KPB’s Annual Fundraising Event supports all our programming including Community Beautification Efforts, Litter Prevention & Education, the KPB Scholarship, Pearland Community Gardens, Yard Wise Demonstration Garden, and the Stella Roberts Recycling Center.

www.pearlandgala.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HALEY VELASCO

Art Camp This camp offers sessions with science, technology, engineering, art and math, or STEAM, projects. Each session offers opportunities for drawing, sketching, cartooning, painting, mixed media, sculpture and art history. Type: arts Ages: 6+ Dates: June-August Cost: $250-$325 • 8703 Broadway St., Ste. 109, Pearland • www.artcampfun.com Bay Area Equestrian Center Summer horse camps teach riding skills and equine knowledge. Type: sports, day Ages: 6-12 Dates: June-August Cost: $300 (2-day camps) • 1908 Broadway St., Pearland • www.baectx.com Camp Invention: Discover Camp Invention has hands-on science, technology, engineering and math activities. Type: academics

Crosspoint Church Connect Camp This camp includes activities, such as archery, crafts and outdoor games, as well as daily faith-based lessons. Type: day

Pearland

Ages: grades K-5 Dates: June 16-20 Cost: $247 • 1134 Old Alvin Road, Pearland • www.connectcamps.com/pearland

iCode This camp offers a variety of themed five-day camps, including Minecraft, game development, programming, engineering, 3D printing and stop motion animation, among other themes. Type: academics Ages: 5-18 Dates: May-August Cost: $459-$479 (per 5-day camp) • 3414 Business Center Drive, Ste. 150, Pearland • www.icodeschool.com/pearland KidsU - University of Houston Clear Lake KidsU provides opportunities for children to learn more about science, math, reading, literacy, technology or cultures. Type: academics Ages: K-seventh grade Dates: June-July Cost: $130 (per session) • 1200 Pearland Parkway, Pearland • www.uhcl.edu/education/centers-initiatives/center- educational-programs/kids-u/summer-camps- pearland Monart School of Art, Technology and Sports This school offers activities in arts and crafts, sports, music and technology in week-long camps throughout the summer. Type: day Ages: 3+, varies on camp type Dates: May 27-Aug. 8 Cost: $200-$450, $50-$60 (single day)

School of Rock This music-based academy offers different weekly camps, with lessons for beginners, music theory, as well as a “Best of the 90s” camp, which will celebrate bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Green Day and Weezer. Type: arts Ages: 5-12 Dates: June-July Cost: $250-$450 (per camp) • 3422 Business Center Drive, Pearland • www.schoolofrock.com/locations/pearland Wonder Camp - Vic Coppinger Family YMCA in Pearland YMCA Wonder Camp offers themed weeks that combine outdoor activities with hands-on science activities, water activities, creating and performing arts, and field trips. Type: academic, arts, day, sports Ages: 5-12 Dates: May 27-Aug. 1, 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Cost: $200 (per week), $45 (registration fee) • 2700 YMCA Drive, Pearland • www.ymcahouston.org/programs/childcare-and- camps/summer-camp This list is not comprehensive.

Ages: K-sixth grade Dates: June-August Cost: $295 (preregistration) • 2910 Half Moon Bay Drive, Pearland • www.invent.org

Coomer Ballet Conservatory This business offers weekly camps centered around specific themes. Other classes, such as workshops focused on Broadway routines, jazz performances and two weeks of summer intensives, are available as well.

Type: arts Ages: 4-12 Dates: June 2-Aug. 8

Cost: $375 (per week), $25 (new student registration fee), $100 (deposit to secure spot), extended care options available • 12004 Shadow Creek Parkway, Ste. 110, Pearland • www.coomerballet.com

• 12310 Broadway St., Pearland • www.pearlandmonart.com

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PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Home insurance premiums ‘unsustainable’ in area From the cover

The conditions

The background

Home insurance rate changes

from 2020 to 2023

In Texas, 160 companies offer homeowners insurance policies as of 2025, which has remained steady since 2022 and is a 20% increase compared to a decade ago, according to the TDI. In 2023, insurance companies sold more than 8.7 million policies in Texas—up 35% from 2013. Still, insurance companies are struggling in Texas, according to filings from multiple insur- ance companies. In 2022, the San Antonio-based United States Army Automobile Association, or USAA, reported its first loss in its 102-year history, according to the insurer’s 2022 annual report. Other insurance companies are limiting the policies they write in Texas, filings show. “Our advice to consumers is to keep shopping,” TDI Communications Specialist Ben Gonzalez told Community Impact in an email. Texas insurance profitability Three times in the past decade, insurance companies in Texas paid out more money than they collected, resulting in a loss in certain years.

-1% or less

0% to 19%

20% to 39%

40% to 59%

60% to 80%

Since 2003, Texas has used a file-and-use system for home insurance, which allows insurance companies to issue higher rates without state approval so long as they notify the state, according to the Texas Department of Insurance, or TDI. These are referred to as “drive-by-filings,” said Ware Wendell, executive director of Texas Watch, which is an organization that monitors insurance practices in the state. “They could just slide an envelope across the desk at [Texas Department of Insurance] and tell them, ‘This is what we’re charging,’ and then put that into practice immediately,” he said. It’s incumbent upon the TDI to challenge hikes that don’t comply with state law, Wendell said. Of the more than 2,300 rate filings the TDI reviewed in 2024, none were disapproved, according to the TDI. From 2022 to 2023, insurance premiums in Texas increased by 23%, marking the highest rise in the nation in that timespan. This compared to the national average increase of 11%, according to a report from S&P Global, a company that specializes in information and analytics around finance and business. John Cobarruvias, a consumer advocate and Clear Lake homeowner, said he feels price increases from contractors are a cause for rising insurance costs for policyholders. Costs of repairing items such as roofs or other structural aspects of a home have risen over the past decade, he said, which in turn drives up the costs of insurance. “The roofing company charges that large amount, the insurance company pays that

No data available

Brazoria County: +24% Fort Bend County: +47% Galveston County: +24% Harris County: +28%

SOURCE: NATIONAL BUREAU OF ECONOMIC RESEARCH/COMMUNITY IMPACT

large amount and then we get charged for it in their premiums,” he said. To help solve the issue, the state is looking at some bills in the ongoing legislative session, such as House Bill 2067 from Rep. Dennis Paul, R-Clear Lake, which would require insurers to provide a reason for when they decline, cancel or don’t renew a policy. Other help comes through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, or TWIA, which is a state- sponsored insurance provider for homeowners who can’t obtain a policy from private insurers. The number of polices written for homeowners in Brazoria and Galveston counties through TWIA has increased by at least 36% in each county dating back to 2019, according to TWIA data.

150% Years with a profit

Years with a loss

100%

50%

*PERCENTAGES ARE BASED ON DIVIDING TOTAL EXPENSES BY REVENUE, RESULTING IN ANYTHING UNDER 100% BEING CONSIDERED PROFITABLE. SOURCE: AM BEST/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

CONTRIBUTIONS BY JAMES T. NORMAN BY RACHEL LELAND

Nonrenewal rates by county

How it works

Throughout the Greater Houston area, more homeowners have opted to not renew their insurance polices year-over-year since 2021.

Final takeaways

Insurance companies have stated in recent news releases they’re facing many risks, such as natural disasters and the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on lumber and building costs. Issues related to Hurricane Beryl, which caused billions of dollars in damage, as well as Winter Storm Uri in 2021, are creating upward pressure on premiums, said Stephanie Montiel, a Pearland resident and insurance broker at TWFG Insurance. Higher premiums resulting from those issues are causing nonrenewal rates to climb in recent years, Montiel said. In December, the U.S. Senate Committee on the Budget published a report that compiled nonrenewal rates across counties in all 50 states. The data confirms that the states and counties most vulnerable to climate-related risks, such as wildfires or hurricanes, have the highest nonre- newal rates and the most significant increases in these rates. Coastal counties such as Brazoria and Galveston counties fall into this camp, according to the report.

0% 2018 2019 2020 2021

2022 2023

Following Hurricane Beryl, TWIA officials asked to increase their rates by 10%, but the TDI blocked it, according to TWIA’s website. In a December report, TWIA officials stated they expect Beryl’s claims could fully deplete the organization’s $450 million catastrophic reserve trust fund. TWIA’s website states the organization hopes to discuss in the 89th legislative session some potential changes in how it pays for storm losses. Still, Cobarruvias said he is worried the TWIA is becoming the only insurance option for some homeowners. “That was supposed to be the insurance of last resort,” Cobarruvias said. In addition to his bill and others proposed, Paul gave some ideas for lowering rates. Those include fortified home perks, which would offer discounts for people who upgrade their homes to protect against disasters. The state could consider group insurance options to lower rates as well, he said.

0.5% 1%

1.5%

Brazoria

Fort Bend

Galveston

Harris

SOURCE: U.S. SENATE COMMITTEE ON THE BUDGET/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Bills to watch

TWIA policies written in 2023

Paul said he hopes HB 2067 will help hold insurance companies to account while also helping the state gather information as to why companies are dropping customers. Some, such as Cobarruvias, said they don’t feel this approach will help because it doesn’t directly deal with rate increases. However, Paul said the state is limited in how it can address the issue.

Paul said he feels the state needs to incentivize competition to bring in more insurance compa- nies, which he said would spread out the risk and therefore potentially lower rates. He said he believes the state setting direct rates or limiting increases could cause companies to leave. “Having government interference come in and set a rate is a total disaster,” he said.

Galveston County

78,237

36% increase since 2019

Brazoria County

45,478

45.8% increase since 2019

SOURCE: TEXAS WINDSTORM INSURANCE ASSOCIATION/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

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PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Transportation

BY RACHEL LELAND, JAMES T. NORMAN & HALEY VELASCO

Pearland looks at new public transit options Pearland City Council received the draft of a study that assesses the city’s need for public transportation at its Jan. 27 meeting. The study, done in partnership with the Houston-Galveston Area Council, or HGAC, dates back to 2022 and includes recommendations for what types of public transportation the city should consider building. What happened Currently, there are two public transit services operating in Pearland, according to the study. Those are the Harris County Rides program for seniors, and METROStar, which is for commuter vanpooling. At the meeting, the HGAC laid out public transit options Pearland could pursue, such as an on-demand transit service paid for by the city and federal grants.

Alvin ISD to replace 10 buses with new grant Alvin ISD received a grant totaling more than $1 million from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for a number of new buses. The grant was presented at Alvin ISD’s Feb. 11 board meeting. The full story The new funding is part of the state’s Energy Friendly Bus Grant, which is part of a broader eort by the state to reduce emissions, according to the commission’s website. The grant will total around $1.2 million and help the district replace 10 of its buses, AISD Chief Communications Ocer Renae Rives said. Those current buses are diesel engines and will be replaced with propane buses, Rives conrmed March 10.

Public transit in Pearland

56% of those surveyed favor public transit in Pearland

$36K is the city’s annual cost for 3,000 trips through Harris County Rides

71,000+ commuters in Pearland

$76K-$480K estimated annual local share cost for various service options

SOURCE: CITY OF PEARLANDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

“As a concept, I struggle with this a little bit. … I’m not a huge fan of doing anything that requires federal help.” CLINT BYROM, PEARLAND CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

HGAC to make project recommendations for FM 518 After more than a year of studying the corridor, the Houston-Galveston Area Council, or HGAC, is expected to bring recommendations to upgrade a portion of FM 518 to Pearland City Council in April. The background HGAC wrapped up its study of FM 518 in told Community Impact in a Feb. 24 email. The goals of the upcoming project include improving safety, maintaining the road, and

BROADWAY ST.

Pearland

W. WALNUT ST.

518

moving people and goods more eciently, among other goals, according to the project’s website. Also of note The study dates back to 2023 and ran through the end of 2024, documents show.

Pearland from McLean Road to Edgewood Drive at the end of 2024, Principal Planner Carlene Mullins

Friendswood

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Business

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Shanna Kirkpatrick owns the dance studio.

COURTESY SHANNA KIRKPATRICK

OLD ALVIN RD.

Friendswood

Pearland

HUNTERS LN.

1 101 Hunters Lane, Friendswood 2 1570 Old Alvin Road, Pearland www.charadance.com

Chara Christian Dance Academy oers contemporary, ballet, jazz, hip hop and other styles of dance at its faith-based studio.

COURTESY CHARA CHRISTIAN DANCE ACADEMY

Chara Christian Dance Academy spreads joy through music and dance Shanna Kirkpatrick has dedicated her life to dance. From 9 years old and throughout high school, she took dance classes, focusing on ballet. In college, she studied dance and sports management while founding companies—all with the intention to open her own studio.

Her vision was realized in September 2007, when she opened Chara Christian Dance Academy in Friendswood. Why it matters Chara Christian Dance Academy now has 1,300 students at two studios—the newest being a 10,000-square-foot facility in Pearland, which opened in July 2024. Kirkpatrick said it has been incredibly rewarding to watch students progress year-to-year. She’s also loved being able to provide a sustainable work environment for dancers to help them grow into responsible adults, she said.

The background The faith-based dance academy lled a need for Friendswood families who aligned with those values when it opened, Kirkpatrick said. Chara emphasizes positive environments, uplifting music and prayer before classes. What they oer Chara students rang from 9 months old to 18 years old. The studio oers several classes, including three training tracks. “I value all dancers,” Kirkpatrick said. “Not just the competitive 12-hour-a-week dancer, but the one or two-hour-a-week recreational dancer.”

11555 Magnolia Pkwy., Suite 170 Pearland, TX 77584 713.852.6700 TexasBayCU.org

PEARLAND FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

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