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THE WOODLANDS EDITION
VOLUME 12, ISSUE 9 MAY 19 JUNE 15, 2023
Postino now o ering fare at Hughes Landing
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Wine and Food Week planned in The Woodlands
FUNDING WATER FEES Funds for planned San Jacinto River Authority projects will come from long-term debt and may increase water and sewer fees for residents. $ 700 M in systemwide needs identi ed, including: $ 374 M for projects in The Woodlands SOURCE: SAN JACINTO RIVER AUTHORITY COMMUNITY IMPACT
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Conroe ISD critical of 2 public education bills
Education
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Michael Coyne, an operator at the wastewater treatment plant on Sawdust Road, takes a sludge sample at the facility. The San Jacinto River Authority plans to rebuild the 50-year-old plant. (Courtesy San Jacinto River Authority)
$374M in water projects planned for The Woodlands The San Jacinto River Authority announced a 10-year, $700 million regional plan at an April 26 open house that includes major over- BY JESSICA SHORTEN
Azzurro Italian Coastal Cuisine opens
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Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries
and some of its infrastructure is also a half-century old or more. As part of the plan, the SJRA, which manages water resources in the San Jacinto basin, and The Woodlands Water Agency are proposing more than $374 million in projects to support the area’s water systems for the next 50 years. Water- and sewer-related projects
include a proposal for a new $226 million wastewater treatment facility on Sawdust Road as well as more than $62 million in plans to replace major water pipelines through Town Center and another $5 million to repair the Bear Branch dam. “We deliver 95 million gallons per CONTINUED ON 40
hauls to water and wastewater systems to support the aging infrastructure and growing regional population in The Woodlands. The Woodlands turns 50 in 2024,
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
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THIS ISSUE
MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Nicole Preston SENIOR EDITOR Vanessa Holt REPORTERS Cassandra Jenkins, Jessica Shorten GRAPHIC DESIGNER Chad Inmon ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Crystal Sha er METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Jason Culpepper SENIOR MANAGING EDITOR Matt Stephens COPY EDITOR Adrian Gandara ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Ethan Pham CONTACT US 16300 Northwest Freeway Houston, TX 77040 • 281 469 6181 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES wdlnews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING wdlads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising EMAIL NEWSLETTERS communityimpact.com/newsletter SUPPORT US Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 35+ localized editions across Texas to more than 2.5 million residential mailboxes.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH
FROM NICOLE: Our front-page story this month looks at some of the important but sometimes invisible changes that are happening around The Woodlands—improvements in the infrastructure. We look at plans for upgrading and expanding wastewater treatment systems as well as aging water lines in the coming years and how those projects are being funded. Also, see Page 37 for a look back at some of the action-packed events that took place in April in the area. Nicole Preston, GENERAL MANAGER
FROM VANESSA: As the regular session of the Texas Legislature ends in May, our coverage includes several bills authored by The Woodlands area’s state Sen. Brandon Creighton regarding education (see Page 22). Senate Bill 8 pertains to making vouchers for private schools available to students, and SB 9 proposes raises for public school teachers. We also talk to Conroe ISD o cials who oppose elements of the plans. Vanessa Holt, SENIOR EDITOR
CORRECTION: Vol. 12, Issue 8: On Page 42, the Houston-Galveston Area Council was incorrectly identi ed as the Harris-Galveston Area Council.
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The calendar reminds us that it might be time for a good spring cleaning. It might be a good time for a spring cleaning with regards to our investment portfolio too. Do you look at your portfolio and wonder why you own some of the things that you own? Are there items in your portfolio that seemed like a good idea a few years ago but don’t anymore? Are there things in your portfolio that if asked, you couldn’t even explain what they are or why you own them? Now is a good time to review your portfolio to make sure you do understand what you own and why. Let us help. We can review your portfolio with you, at no cost, to help get you back on track to achieving all of your long-term investment goals. MONTHLY COMMENTARY
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
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COURTESY HEBREWS COFFEEHOUSE
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older services for non-life-threatening conditions, on-site X-ray services, COVID-19 testing and flu vaccines. www.gohealthyuc.com/memorialhermann COMING SOON 5 The North Face will open in The Woodlands Mall this summer, according to mall officials. Specializing in out- door and active gear for men, women and children, the shop will offer a variety of products in-store. The shop will be located within The Woodlands Mall at 1201 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands. www.thenorthface.com 6 Nautical Bowls is opening a new location in The Woodlands in mid-May. Nautical Bowls offers a variety of or- ganic, all-natural acai bowls. The menu offers several different base items such as acai, pitaya, mango, coconut and blue majik. Customers can customize their bowls with seeds, granola, fruit, drizzles or protein. Nautical Bowls will be located at 4849 FM 1488, Ste. 1200, The Woodlands. www.facebook.com/ nauticalbowlsthewoodlands 7 Neuhaus , a new apartment complex, is under construction at 509 Nursery Road, The Woodlands. Neuhaus is a 225-unit multifamily apartment building that will feature one- to three-bedroom floor plans, a resort-style swimming pool, a dog park and pet grooming station, and a fitness and outdoor grilling area. Flournoy Devel- opment Group President Joseph Renaud said apartments will begin preleasing in July-August with the first move-ins avail-
able in October and November. www.flournoycompanies.com 8 Era Pickleball will open June 3 at 295 Sawdust Road, Spring, offering eight indoor courts. Founders Nikki and Christian Tejada said the first phase of the facility will include a 23,000-square-foot space with eight indoor courts featuring outdoor surfacing. Two of the courts will include the cushion master system to reduce the impact on joints, Nikki Tejada said. The location will also have acoustic panels for sound suppression, she said. The venue's hours will be from 6 a.m.-midnight daily. The venue will also have a pro shop, a lounge with games such as table tennis and a second-level mezzanine as well as a smoothie shop. Era Pickleball will offer three membership levels as well as options for guests. www.erapickleball.com RELOCATIONS 9 Ardest Gallery is relocating to The Woodlands this summer from Magnolia and bringing a variety of art exhibits from local Texas artists to display. Gallery Director Julie Verville said the new location will allow the gallery to show more work by local artists. The gallery is scheduled to hold its grand opening June 10 at 25200 Grogans Park Drive, The Woodlands. 832-296-6723. www.ardestgallery.com 10 Vedas Medical Spa and Woodlands Functional Family Medicine relocat- ed to its new office space April 3 from 8000 McBeth Way. Offering cosmet- ic, wellness and spa services, Vedas
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NOW OPEN 1 Surreal Creamery opened in April at 1500 Research Forest Drive, Ste. 175, Shenandoah. This is the second loca- tion in Texas for the franchise. The ice cream shop is known for its signature Mason jar sundaes. 346-386-0310. www.surrealcreamery.com 2 HeBrews Coffeehouse opened in The Woodlands on May 1, serving a variety of coffee, lemonades and brunch items. HeBrews Coffeehouse was founded in 2020 in Magnolia, starting with a mobile coffee truck and expanding into brick and mortar operations. The new shop is lo- cated at 26403 Oak Ridge Drive, Spring. 832-807-1748. www.hebrewslocalcoffee.com
SPRING 3 Monte Nido & Affiliates opened a new residential eating disorder center at 15252 Saddlewood Drive, Conroe, in April. According to a news release, Monte Nido Houston will provide care for adult women with anorexia nervosa, bulimia 99 TOLL nervosa, binge eating disorder and/or exercise addiction. Monte Nido Houston integrates treatment with personalized, evidence-based medical, psychiatric, clinical and nutritional care, as well as 24-hour nursing. 888-228-1253. www.montenido.com 4 Memorial Hermann GoHealth Urgent Care opened at 9595 Six Pines Drive. Ste. 1400, The Woodlands, at Market Street with a ribbon-cutting May 5. Memorial Hermann-GoHealth centers offer patients age 6 months and
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Ardest Gallery
Ale & Ivy
COURTESY ARDEST GALLERY
JESSICA SHORTEN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
NAME CHANGES 14 Longtime sports bar and grill Rookies is rebranding as Ale & Ivy this summer. The new bar will offer a variety of expanded offerings, including a 32-tap long draw system as well as offer season- al beers and spirits. The business is also expanding the interior space of the bar. The location is expected to hold its grand opening around Memorial Day. Ale & Ivy is located at 305 Sawdust Road, Spring. www.aleandivy.com CLOSINGS 15 A spokesperson for Fuddruckers confirmed its location in The Woodlands area at 8510 Creekside Forest Drive, Tom- ball, closed permanently April 21. A pre- vious location in The Woodlands closed in early 2022. The chain serves customiz- able burgers, chicken sandwiches, vegan options, wings and shakes, according to its menus. www.fuddruckers.com 16 Mozambik , a Portuguese-in- spired South African restaurant, announced it closed April 30 at its location near The Woodlands Mall at 1201 Lake Woodlands Drive, Ste. 304, The Woodlands. The restaurant also has locations in South Africa and Zambia. When reached through a Facebook message, the restaurant said it will continue to operate its Mozos USA food trailer located at The Table at Madeley at 316 Madeley St. in down- town Conroe, which offers live music. www.conroetable.com
Medical Spa and Woodlands Functional Family Medical focuses on a holistic approach to health and wellness, Dr. Chaitali Nangrani said. The new office is located at 2626 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands. 281-298-5476. www.vedasmedspa.com 11 Blvd Boutik relocated from Tomball to Magnolia. The new store is located at 32309 FM 2978. The location includes a wine and coffee bar for customers to or- der drinks in the store. The boutique sells home decor, jewelry and accessories as well as women’s and children’s clothing. 281-516-7996. www.theblvdboutik.com 12 Love Fosters Hope relocat- ed from Magnolia on May 1 to 2001 Timberloch Place, Ste. 500, in The Woodlands on the fourth floor. The non- profit organization works with children and teens and foster care who have been abused, neglected or abandoned. It offers programs such as camps, outreach pro- grams and mentorship. 832-823-1889. 13 Plantonic Friends Nursery is cele- brating its five-year anniversary in May. The business provides native plants to local residents that are safe for monarch butterflies and promote their popula- tion growth. Plantonic Friends Nursery delivers plants across The Woodlands area, and it holds a stand each weekend at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at the Grogan’s Mill Village Center, 7 Switchbud Place, The Woodlands. 713-412-4577. www.facebook.com/plantonicfriends www.lovefostershope.org ANNIVERSARIES
Postino offers a variety of wines and snacking options for customers.
COURTESY POSTINO
FEATURED IMPACT NOW OPEN Postino opened April 24 at Hughes Landing Boulevard in The Woodlands, providing a new restaurant and wine bar space near Restaurant Row. “The Woodlands has been on our radar since we rst opened at Heights Mercantile ve years ago,” Postino co-founder Lauren Bailey said in a news release. “It’s de nitely been worth the wait to nd the perfect space to open within the community. The Woodlands embodies everything that excites us—a relaxed vibe connected to the beauty of the outdoors, the familial energy, its burgeoning food scene and the cultural vibrancy of an international population.” The location will features a wall art design composed of 1950s and 1960s fedoras, and other vintage decor.
Postino o ers a permanent collection of wines, and in May it introduced an additional 30 new wines which will be available as part of a summertime seasonal o ering. It also o ers food items including snacks, bruschetta, panini and salads as well as menus for children and family-size servings. Postino is located at 2025 Hughes Landing Blvd., The Woodlands. 281-825-5050. www.postinowinecafe.com
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Meet the Doctor | Dr.Gary Embley DC As a high school and collegiate football player, Gary was introduced to chiropractic through athletics. “Severe headaches persisted as I saw more playing time in high school. Since medications weren’t helping, I was referred to a chiropractor. Uncertain at first, I was amazed once the headaches subsided after a series of treatments. Through college I continued chiropractic care, finally choosing to pursue my doctorate and a career in chiropractic.” May marks the beginning of Dr. Embley’s 10th year practicing with The Joint. “Our growth has been phenomenal, and truly brings to light the efficacy of chiropractic care.”
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
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IMPACTS
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Businesses that have recently opened , coming soon & renovating
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Khau Gully Indian Kitchen opened April 18 at 25188 I 45, Ste. A1A, Spring.
COURTESY KHAU GULLY INDIAN KITCHEN
FEATURED IMPACT NOW OPEN Khau Gully Indian Kitchen opened April 18 at 25188 I-45 Ste. A1A, Spring. Owner Jitu Chudasama said the restaurant is inspired by Indian street food. The menu is 100% vegetarian and o ers Indian food such as samosas, pav bhaji, dabeli, pan puri and paratha,
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which are varieties of appetizers, breads and snacks. 281-362-5014. www.khau-gully.com
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NOW OPEN 1 Summer Moon Co ee opened a new location April 29 at 3917 Woodson’s Reserve Parkway, Ste. 100, Spring, according to a news release from the company. According to the business website, it sells oak-roasted co ee in light, medium and dark varieties as well as decaf. The store also o ers Summer Moon merchandise. 346-640-8977. www.summermoonco ee.com 2 MunchMunch Mochi Donut opened April 4 at 19189 I-45, Ste. M, Shenan- doah. The store sells mochi doughnuts, which are a fusion item combining Japanese mochi and American dough- nuts made with rice our, according to the business website. It sells doughnuts singly, by the half-dozen or dozen, as well as cream pu s and a variety of
zzy and frozen drinks. 346-331-6184. www.munchmunchmochidonut.com COMING SOON 3 Reece Bath and Kitchen will open a new location in Oak Ridge North in May o ering a variety of bath, kitchen and outdoor home goods. The store held a soft opening in late April. The shop o ers showrooms and design consultants on interior and exterior home options. The store is located at 26914 I-45 N., Oak Ridge North. 281-475-2088. www.reecebathandkitchen.com 4 Hounds Town will open a new location in Oak Ridge North in late 2023, according to Oak Ridge North o cials. O ering dog day care, spa and boarding services, the location will o er service packages to help with pet care and
Summer Moon Co ee
MunchMunch Mochi Donut
COURTESY SUMMER MOON COFFEE
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training. The facility will also o er cat day care services for feline owners. The new building is under construction at 27327 Robinson Rd., Oak Ridge North. www.houndstownusa.com RENOVATIONS 5 The Abundant Harvest Kitchen , 24803 Oakhurst Drive, Spring, is trans-
forming its cafe. Starting June 1, the community can have a bistro-style expe- rience at the newly remodeled Abundant Harvest Cafe led by Executive Chef Joe Macri. The new partnership will allow customers to choose between paying for their meal or electing to volunteer at the facilities. All pro ts go directly to the nonpro t’s mission to continue feeding more than 100,000 people each year. www.harvestkitchen.org
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
TO DO LIST
May & June events
MAY 20
CELEBRATE BIKING IN THE WOODLANDS NORTHSHORE PARK
JUNE 08
ENJOY SWEET AND SPARKLING WINES THE PEACH ORCHARD
Residents can celebrate National Bike Month by joining the 11th annual Bike The Woodlands event to learn about cycling and join games such as the bike rodeo. 9 a.m.-noon. Free. Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands. 281-210-3800. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov
Rosé Way, a Sweet Soiree, features rose, sparkling and sweet wines as well as a fashion show provided by Market Street with music and door prizes. 6-9 p.m. $75 (ticket), $125 (fashion show reserved seat). The Peach Orchard Venue, 1737 Sawdust Road, Spring. 713-557-5732. www.wineandfoodweek.com
20 THROUGH 23
26 GO FOR A NIGHT CLIMB Community members are invited to join Texas TreeVentures for a three-hour Glow in the Park event which will allow visitors to climb through the course at night with illumination from the ground level. Children ages 6-12 must have an adult accompanying them for the climb. 7-10 p.m. $60. Texas TreeVentures,
26 THROUGH 28 WATCH A MUSICAL Families can join Class Act Productions for a rendition of Tony award-winning musical “The Drowsy Chaperone.” The play will also run the weekend of June 2-4. 2:30-7:30 p.m. $20-$30. Class Act Theater, 25275 Budde Road, Ste. 25, The Woodlands. 281-941-8500. www.classactproductions.org
MAY 20 GO OUT FOR A LUAU Attendees can party with the family in a Hawaiian-themed celebration. Families can enjoy swimming, music and games during the event. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $10-$25. Cranebrook Pool, 11800 Cranebrook Drive, The Woodlands. 281-210-3800. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov
CELEBRATE LOCAL
GRADUATING SENIORS The Woodlands High School, Oak Ridge High School and Grand Oaks High School will celebrate the graduation ceremonies for seniors at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. 7:30 p.m. (May 20, 22, 23) Free. Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, 2005 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands. 281-364-3010. www.woodlandscenter.org
6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands. 281-210-2048. www.texastreeventures.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
COMPILED BY JESSICA SHORTEN
LEARN ABOUT ANIMALS THE WOODLANDS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
JUNE 14
The Woodlands Children’s Museum will host Crazy About Critters with The Learning Zoo for children to experience a variety of animals and learn about their mannerisms and habitats. 11 a.m. $8. The Woodlands Children’s Museum, 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Ste. 280, The Woodlands. 281-465-0955. www.woodlandschildrensmuseum.org
Wine and Food Week ends with an event featuring 35 restaurants.
COURTESY KELLEY SWEET PHOTOGRAPHY
28 OBSERVE MEMORIAL DAY IN THE WOODLANDS The annual Memorial Day celebration in The Woodlands will feature live music, children’s activities, and other events and vendors. The evening will conclude with a choreographed reworks display at Town Green Park. 5-9 p.m. Free. Town Green Park, 2099 Lake Robbins Drive. 281-210-3800. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov 30 SEND THE KIDS TO SUNNY DAYZ CAMPS Sunny Dayz summer camps will o cially kick o on May 30, with weeklong and single-day passes available for children. Parents can register children for several weeks or individual days. Each week brings a variety of activities and events for children to participate in. All day. $60-$200. Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands. 281-210-3800. www.sunnydayzcamp.com JUNE 04 ENJOY COFFEE AND CARS AT MARKET STREET The Woodlands Car Club is hosting the annual charity car display at Market Street. The event brings together car enthusiasts
FEATURED EVENT
and collects donations from visitors to donate toward local charities and causes in Montgomery County. 6:30-10 a.m. Free. Market Street, 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands. 281-363-2977. www.facebook.com/thewoodlandscarclub 09 WISH DONALD DUCK A HAPPY BIRTHDAY Children can meet Donald Duck on his birthday at The Woodlands Children’s Museum. Donald Duck will be available for photos as well as to enjoy activities and sing “Happy Birthday.” Children must be accompanied by adults throughout the event. 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $8. The Woodlands Children’s Museum, 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Ste. 280, The Woodlands. 281-465-0955. www.woodlandschildrensmuseum.org 09 JOIN THE LADIES OF THE VINE FOR A TALK A moderator will lead a panel of women winemakers, owners and experts along with tasting stations and multicourse wine meal. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. $135. The Club at Carlton Woods, 1 Carlton Woods Drive, The Woodlands. 713-557-5732. www.wineandfoodweek.com 10 TAKE PART IN A PRIDE SUMMIT The Woodlands Pride presents its inaugural summit, Talking with Pride. The event includes speakers and
Culinary Awards as voted by a panel of judges. The event features hundreds of wines, and wine enthusiasts will be in attendance. 7-10 p.m. $150. The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, 1601 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands. 713-557-5732. www.wineandfoodweek.com THE WOODLANDS As part of national pollinator week, residents are invited to participate in BioBlitz, a weeklong event where participants can upload photos of local ora and fauna to a database to help identify local species in the area. The event will culminate in a celebration June 24 displaying local nds and discussing the local ecosystem. All day. Free. Rob Fleming Recreational Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands. 281-210-3800. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov 19 THROUGH 25 IDENTIFY LOCAL SPECIES IN
TAKE PART IN THE GRAND TASTING JUNE 10 The Wine Rendezvous Grand
Tasting and Chef Showcase features demonstrations and culinary o erings from 35 restaurants competing to be the winner of the Chef of Chefs
panels discussing mental health, small business, advocacy and other topics pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. $50-$100. Sam Houston State University Center The Woodlands, 3380 College Park Drive, The Woodlands. www.thewoodlandspride.org 17 CELEBRATE FATHER’S DAY MAGICALLY Visitors to The Woodlands Children’s Museum can celebrate Father’s Day with a magician-themed arts and crafts day featuring performances from local magicians. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $8. The Woodlands Children’s Museum, 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Ste. 280, The Woodlands. 281-465-0955. www.woodlandschildrensmuseum.org
Find more or submit The Woodlands events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
LIVE MUSIC CALENDAR
Live music in and around The Woodlands
CELLAR 24 6700 Woodlands Parkway,
09 Duran Duran, 7 p.m. 10 Koe Wetzel, 8 p.m. 14 Symphonic tribute to Elvis, 8 p.m. DOSEY DOE BIG BARN 25911 I-45 N., Spring 281-367-3774 www.doseydoetickets.com MAY 25 Adam Hood, 8:30 p.m. 26 Sam Morrow, 8:30 p.m. 27 Kelly Willis, Brennen Leigh & Melissa Carper, 8 p.m. JUNE 01 Jason Allen & Thom Shepherd, 8:30 p.m. 02 Patsy Cline tribute by Kelley Peters, 8:30 p.m. 03 Keeton Co man, 8:30 p.m. 04 Maggie Rose, 7:30 p.m. 09 Artimus Pyle of Lynyrd Skynyrd, 8:30 p.m. 10 Malford Milligan & Tin Cadillac Band, 8:30 p.m. 11 Cool Freddie E & The Crew, 7 p.m. 16 Mason Lively, 8:30 p.m. 17 Anna Kate’s birthday bash with Cooper Wade, 8:30 p.m. 20 Morgan James, 8:30 p.m. 21 David Wilcox, 6:30 p.m. 24 Braxton Keith with Kyle Hutton, 8 p.m.
The Woodlands 281-419-9966 www.cellar-24.com JUNE
02 Duane Dulane, 7 p.m. 16 Jeremy Parsons, 6 p.m. COMO SOCIAL CLUB 2 Waterway Square Place, The Woodlands 832-839-5435 www.comosocialclub.com MAY 25 Randy Allison, 8 p.m. 26 Mikey Wolf, 9 p.m. 27 Randy Allison, 9 p.m. CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION 2005 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands 281-364-3010 www.woodlandscenter.org MAY 19 Dave Matthews Band, 7:30 p.m. 27 Flashback Funkfest featuring Morris Day and The Time, 5 p.m. JUNE 01 Toy Story in concert with the Houston Symphony, 8 p.m. 03 Janet Jackson, 7:45 p.m.
Country musician Cannon Brand released a debut album this year.
COURTESY CANNON BRAND
FEATURED ARTIST Cannon Brand’s debut album “Long Time Comin’” features the single “Wine, Beer, & Whiskey.” Brand is a multi-instrumentalist who played bass, drums and guitars on his rst EP, combining country roots with rock ‘n’ roll. DOSEY DOE BREAKFAST, BBQ & WHISKEY BAR 2626 Research Forest Drive, Ste. B , RESEARCH PARK DR.
The Woodlands 832-823-4414 www.doseydoetickets.com JUNE 02 Cannon Brand, 8 p.m.
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FOR THE LOVE OF THE ARTS.
CELEBRATE THE ARTS AT THE CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION www.woodlandscenter.org
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
COMPILED BY VANESSA HOLT
COOPER MOHRMANN DOSEY DOE BREAKFAST, BBQ & WHISKEY BAR
MAY 26
JUNE 16
MASON LIVELY DOSEY DOE BIG BARN
DOSEY DOE BREAKFAST, BBQ & WHISKEY BAR 2626 Research Forest Drive, Ste. B, The Woodlands 832-823-4414 www.doseydoetickets.com MAY 20 Winston Cook, 8 p.m. 23 Je Canada’s Songwriter Series featuring Mason Marek, 8 p.m. 25 Zach Aaron, 8 p.m. 26 Cooper Mohrmann, 8:30 p.m. 27 Zac Wilkerson, 8 p.m. JUNE 16 David Lee & Jessee Lee, 8 p.m. 17 Kyle Hutton & Matt Parish, 8 p.m. MARKET STREET 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands 281-419-4774 www.shopatmarketstreet.com MAY 19 Sarah Kelly Music School, 6:30 p.m. 25 Clutch City, 6 p.m. 26 Sarah Kelly Music School, 6:30 p.m. JUNE 01 Queen Legacy tribute, 6 p.m. 01 Luba Dvorak, 8 p.m. 02 Cannon Brand, 8 p.m. 03 Junior Gordon, 8 p.m. 08 Jaryd Lane, 8 p.m. 09 Kane Alvarado, 8 p.m. Cooper Mohrmann grew up in Houston, attended Baylor University and received his rst guitar at age 18. (Courtesy Cooper Mohrmann)
08 Nobody’s Fool & Kelley Peters, 6 p.m. 16 Sarah Kelly Music School, 6:30 p.m. REFUGE BAR AND BISTRO 24 Waterway Ave., Ste. 110, The Woodlands 713-389-5674 www.refugeinthewoodlands.com MAY 20 Unique Soul, 8 p.m. 26 Cooper Ritz, 8 p.m. 27 NLCK band, 8 p.m. JUNE 02 Yelba, 8 p.m. 03 Purple Moon Billy Pope, 8 p.m. 17 J-Walkers Justin LeBlanc, 8 p.m. REFUGE STEAKHOUSE 8540 Creekside Forest Drive, Ste. C800, The Woodlands 832-559-8541 www.refugeinthewoodlands.com MAY 20 A.J. Santana, 6 p.m. 26 Yelba, 6 p.m. 27 Purple Moon Billy Pope, 6 p.m. JUNE 02 A.J. Santana, 6 p.m. 09 Jimmie Hunter, 8 p.m. 10 Unique Soup, 8 p.m. 16 Jimmie Hunter, 8 p.m. Originally from Victoria, Austin-based Mason Lively grew up in a country music family. (Courtesy Mason Lively)
Duran Duran are known for 1980s hits like “Rio” and “Hungry Like the Wolf.”
COURTESY CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION
FEATURED ARTIST The 1980s English pop group Duran Duran is touring the United States in 2023 with a date planned at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Nile Rodgers & Chic and Bastille are the supporting acts for the show. CYNTHIA WOODS
MITCHELL PAVILION 2005 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands 281-364-3010 www.woodlandscenter.org JUNE 09 Duran Duran, 7 p.m.
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WATERWAY NIGHTS 31 Waterway Square Place, The Woodlands 281-210-3800 www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov MAY 20 Donovan Keith, 6:30 p.m. 27 The Breezy Boys, 6:30 p.m. JUNE
03 Unique Soul, 6 p.m. 09 Unique Soul, 6 p.m. 10 Jimmie Hunter, 6 p.m. 16 Yelba, 6 p.m. 17 Jimmie Hunter, 6 p.m. SAWYER PARK ICEHOUSE 314 Pruitt Road, Spring 281-362-5907 www.sawyerpark.com JUNE 03 Bag of Donuts, 9 p.m. 17 War Hippies, TBA
03 Mike Donnell, 6:30 p.m. 10 Time Warp, 6:30 p.m. 17 Yelba, 6:30 p.m.
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Find more or submit The Woodlands events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.
27327 Robinson Rd #1 Oak Ridge North ( e Woodlands) • TX 77385 USA Ph: 281-782-1555 Tuesday-Friday : 10am – 4pm • Saturday 10am – 2pm
Appointments necessary
Mother Of 6, Grandmother To 13, Great-Grandmother To 1
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
APRIL 13TH - JUNE 8TH
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
TRANSPORTATION UPDATES
COMPILED BY VANESSA HOLT
REGIONAL PROJECTS
1314 Oak Ridge North approved easement agreements with Entergy Texas in Janu- ary to begin moving utilities to make way for the project to align Robinson Road across Hanna Road. As of mid-April, Oak Ridge North officials reported the process was still underway. Delays with Entergy’s relocation plans have set the project back to begin in August, according to city officials. Timeline: August-late 2024 Cost: $6 million Funding sources: city of Oak Ridge North, Montgomery County Precinct 3 Bidding will open June 8, and construc- tion should start in July, Bleyl said. Timeline: July-TBD Cost: $6 million Funding source: city of Shenandoah, city of Conroe, Montgomery County 3 Robinson Road realignment
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ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF MAY 10. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT WDLNEWS@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM. with 24-inch culverts to improve stormwater flow within Precinct 3. Additional upcoming projects include concrete repairs on northbound lanes on Grogans Mill Road as well as bridge and slope erosion repairs and turn-lane extensions throughout Precinct 3. The Precinct 3 Sign Department installed 322 signs in March, in- cluding signage on recently re- striped roads such as Sawdust Road, Many Pines Road, Six Pines Drive, Woodson’s Reserve Parkway, Birnham Woods Drive, Elan Boulevard and other roads throughout Precinct 3. Some of the replaced signs include vandalized signs and barriers, accord- ing to Precinct 3. FM 1488 raised median construction Construction has not yet started on a Texas Department of Transportation project to add a raised median along FM 1488 between Mostyn Drive in Magnolia and I-45 as of a May 1 up- date. The project was awarded to ISI Contracting Inc. Timeline: first quarter 2023-fourth quarter 2025 Cost: $10.22 million Funding sources: TxDOT, federal Precinct 3 crews improve drainage, replace signs According to an April 18 news release, Montgomery County Precinct 3 road and drainage crews replaced a half-dozen 18-inch drainage culverts
DAVID MEMORIAL DR.
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ONGOING PROJECTS
work on the eastbound lane was delayed pending permits for relocation of utility lines, according to engineer John Bleyl. The project is being managed by Mont-
gomery County Precinct 2. Timeline: January-August Cost: $240,000
4 Hwy. 242 improvements from FM 1488 to I-45
Funding sources: Montgomery County Precinct 2, Texas Depart- ment of Transportation
The Texas Department of Transportation will use existing right of way on Hwy. 242 between FM 1488 and I-45 to widen lanes and restripe the intersections. The project will also include construction of detention ponds on 10.74 acres of new right of way to be acquired by TxDOT. The project is expected to begin in October pending final design changes and weather conditions, according to TxDOT officials. Construction will take 18 months, officials have said. Timeline: October-early 2025 Cost: $29 million Funding source: TxDOT
UPCOMING PROJECTS 2 David Memorial Drive extension Right-of-way clearing to extend David Memorial Drive to Hwy. 242 took place in mid-March, bidding for construction on the expansion project began in March, and construction is expected to begin in June, Bleyl said. Shenandoah officials ap- proved the three-party interlocal funding agreement with Montgomery County at an April 26 city of Shenandoah meeting.
PHOTOS BY VANESSA HOLT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
1 Grogans Mill Road and Research Forest Drive turn lane construction Turn lane improvements at Research Forest Drive and Grogans Mill Road will extend the westbound acceleration lane from southbound Grogans Mill to westbound Research Forest as well as the westbound Research Forest lane to northbound Grogans Mill. As of May 10, the westbound lane was completed, and
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MAGNOLIA 32731 Egypt Lane, Ste. 701 | Magnolia, TX 77354 (281) 789-4874
THE WOODLANDS 19221 I-45 South Ste. 140 | Shenandoah, TX 77385 (281) 363-2847
TOMBALL 425 Holderrieth Blvd, Ste. 116 | Tomball, TX 77375 (281) 351-1955
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
Providing gentl� car� for your smil�
Newly Renovated Community Buildings! When You’re Here, You’re Home At the Forum at Woodlands, our focus is on people and compassion. We are in the process of renovating our Club House and Dining Building, where residents come together to experience all our community has to offer and to celebrate life. We have a variety of living options, from one to two-bedroom independent living apartments, to assisted living, and memory care, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Our goal is to provide an easy living environment for our residents. The Forum At The Woodlands 5055 West Panther Creek Drive The Woodlands, TX 77381 281•292•2600 www.fivestarseniorliving.com Call by 05/31 to learn about our move-in specials!
(281) 296-2010 Dr. Smith is accepting new patients. EMERGENCIES SEEN PROMPTLY
4850 West Panther Creek Dr., Suite 104, The Woodlands, TX 77381
@2023 Five Star Senior Living #307569, #030266
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
GOVERNMENT The Woodlands, Shenandoah look to build on tourism growth
TRACKING TRAVEL SPENDING
Visitor spending in The Woodlands and Shenandoah in the past decade peaked in 2022 after seeing a dip during 2020, the rst year of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Woodlands
Shenandoah
$ 500
$ 400
BY VANESSA HOLT
$ 214.57 M
$ 439.03 M
On the heels of April, when events brought $27 million in tourism spending to The Woodlands in a single week- end, the township’s convention and visitors bureau, Visit The Woodlands, is looking at future prospects to continue harnessing that revenue-generating power. At the same time, the neighboring city of Shenandoah, which has a population hovering around 3,350 over its 2 square miles, is expecting a 13th hotel to open within the next year. In addition, new openings will bring the city’s restaurant o erings to around 60 locations, Visit Shenandoah Director John Mayner said. “An exceedingly high percentage of travel spending that comes into our city is from nonresidents,” Mayner said. “Make no mistake about it— every single day of the year, people come, stay, shop at our shops, eat at our restaurants and drop their dollars.” O cials in The Woodlands and Shenandoah said the trick is how to keep that trend going with increasing regional competition and limited space in which facili- ties can expand. Vertical growth through additional hotel development to provide rooms and conference space is one approach currently underway in Shenandoah and under consideration in The Woodlands. Brook eld Properties, which owns The Woodlands Mall, announced in late 2022 it will add a potential 16-story hotel with 275 rooms and 30,000 feet of confer- ence space as well as a 14-story hotel with 200 rooms. A timeline has not been established for that construction, but in the meantime, The Woodlands Resort is cur- rently undergoing $26 million in renovations, Visit The Woodlands o cials said. The upgrade will include room enhancements, three new dining outlets and a boutique on-site as well as an enhanced conference center. In Shenandoah, Mayner said construction will wrap in early 2024 on the Hampton Inn and Suites under construction o I-45. Brad Bailey, a member of The Woodlands’ board of
$ 300
$ 200
$ 72.27 M
$ 35.99 M
$ 100
$ 0
SOURCES: TEXAS TRAVEL RESEARCH DASHBOARD, DEAN RUNYAN ASSOCIATES COMMUNITY IMPACT
COMMUNITY PROFILES The Woodlands and Shenandoah have seen increases in revenue and in employment in the hospitality industry.
directors and chair of Visit The Woodlands, said the impetus for tourism growth and revenue growth is to keep property taxes down, as sales tax revenue reduces the need for income from property taxes. The Wood- lands’ tax rate is $0.1875, and the city of Shenandoah has a tax rate of $0.1477. Future prospects Events in April such as the Ironman Texas and The Chevron Championship, a Ladies Professional Golf Association championship, brought a surge to tourism while increasing the region’s national pro le, Bailey said. Chevron Championship viewership peaked at about 1.5 million on the weekend of April 22, he said. The event is contracted with The Club at Carlton Woods for ve years. One boon for The Woodlands’ long-term tourism goals would be opening its long-discussed performing arts center alongside The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, Bailey said. The indoor venue is under discussion, but high construction costs remain an obstacle, he said. Aside from events tourism, however, The Woodlands sees conventions and conferences as a growing source of revenue. In 2022, it hosted 2,050 meetings, generating $21.6 million in revenue. In March, it hosted the annual Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. “Every hotel room was full the whole week long. ... It’s great for all the businesses,” Bailey said.
+% Change from 2021
THE WOODLANDS 2021 population: 115,716 2022 TOURISM STATS
Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. ©2023 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All rights reserved. Ages for Summer Adventure Club program vary by location. Fun for children in K–5th grade. PrimroseSterlingRidge.com 281.681.3500 PrimroseImperialOaks.com 281.364.7400 PrimroseCreeksidePark.com 281.351.7300 PrimroseCollegePark.com 936.321.5900 PrimroseHarmonySpring.com 281.907.6900 PrimroseHughesLanding.com 281.292.7400 SOURCES: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY 5 YEAR ESTIMES, TEXAS TRAVEL RESEARCH DASHBOARD, DEAN RUNYAN ASSOCIATES COMMUNITY IMPACT *Tax receipts for travel-related purchase such as lodging, food and beverage, retail goods, and motor fuel. • Tourism employment: 4,150 +9.2% • Tourism wages: $214.6M +16.9% • Tax revenue*: $39.1M +9.2% SHENANDOAH: 2021 population: 3,350 2022 TOURISM STATS • Tourism employment: 700 +9.4% • Tourism wages: $36.3M +17% • Tax revenue*: $5.9M +9.4%
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
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GOVERNMENT Montgomery County foster placements reach 10-year low
BY JESSICA SHORTEN
DECREASING PLACEMENTS The number of children placed in foster care annually has reached a 10-year low in Montgomery County, in the region and in Texas.
According to 2022 data released by the Texas Department of Family Protective Services in February, Montgomery County recorded the lowest number of children placed in foster care in 10 years following a number of statewide and local measures focused on quality of foster care and proper placements. According to the Feb. 28 report from DFPS, the Houston region has the fourth-highest rate of foster child placements in the state, with 4,967 as of 2022. However, the report shows a decrease since 2018, when it recorded the second-highest rate with 8,134 foster children in state care. The number of foster children in state care in Montgomery County has fallen to 518, which is also a 10-year low. Leshia Fisher, Child Protective Services Region 6 director who over- sees operations in Harris County and the surrounding 12-county area, said she believes the decrease is a result of alternative response programs implemented in 2021. “Alternative response lets child protective investigations handle cases of abuse or neglect that initially present with less immediate safety or risk issues in a more exible way— engaging families while still focusing on the safety of the children,” Fisher said. Another component to the alterna- tive response program is providing more education in trauma-informed care, which Fisher said has been a collaborative e ort between CPS, Court Appointed Special Advocates and courts to identify problem areas
LOCAL RESOURCES Several organizations provide support for foster children and families navigating the court system. Angel Reach 900 W. Dallas St., Conroe 936-202-8498 www.angelreach.org Angel Reach is a faith-based nonpro t organization that works with young adults ages 16-24 who have aged out of the foster care system.
Child Protective Services Region 6
Montgomery County
Texas
35,000 0 40,000 50,000 45,000 55,000
4,500 0 5,500 7,500 6,500 8,500
0 500 550 600 650 700
697
50,846
8,134
4,967
518
36,737
SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY PROTECTIVE SERVICES COMMUNITY IMPACT
neglect requiring removal of children from homes. “The change in the Legislature has raised the requirements for removing children from the home, and so we have been increasing education with our community partners for identify- ing and helping children who may be in those situations,” Ronsman said. However, Fisher said e orts to place children with other family members has allowed the agency to ensure quality of care while decreas- ing the number of children in foster homes. Local agencies focused on providing community-based care are still seeing increased needs, but are fostering more collaboration between local communities to provide care. “This is allowing the community to come together, and instead of the state being the parents, the commu- nities are able to come together and meet the needs,” said Debi Tengler, chief relations o cer for Arrow Child and Family Ministries.
in investigations. “When the courts and caregivers use an evidence-based philosophy, it helps to improve the outcomes that you’re looking for,” Fisher said. Local agencies such as CASA are court-appointed advocates which work with children to ensure they have voices in the legal process, while other Montgomery County agencies such as Hope’s Path o er post-foster care support to children who have aged out of the system without support. “More collaboration between parenting groups, the juvenile court systems and school districts helps ensure positive outcomes are avail- able for our children,” Fisher said. However, Ann Marie Ronsman, president of CASA Child Advocates of Montgomery County, said she believes the drop in cases is due to legislative changes. For example, House Bill 567, which was signed into law in 2021, raised the threshold for
Arrow Child & Family Ministries 25700 I-45 N., Ste. 415, Spring
346-328-4840 www.arrow.org
The nonpro t organization is funded in part by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. CASA Child Advocates of Montgomery County 505 N. Main St., Conroe 936-441-5437 www.casaspeaks4kids.com CASA are court-appointed advocates who work with children to ensure they have voices in the legal process.
Hope’s Path 28918 S. Plum Creek Drive, Spring, 281-465-8121
Hope’s Path o ers post-foster care support to children who have aged out of the system. SOURCES: ANGEL REACH, ARROW, CASA, HOPE’S PATH COMMUNITY IMPACT
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THE WOODLANDS EDITION • MAY 2023
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