Conroe - Montgomery Edition | January 2026

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Conroe Montgomery Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 10 JAN. 29FEB. 25, 2026

2026 Voter Guide

Brought to you by our gold sponsors: 2026 Health & Wellness Edition

Parks and recreation New Oscar Johnson Jr. center expands Conroe amenities The city of Conroe’s new 86,974-square-foot recreation

facility opened Jan. 20, oering residents amenities such as pickleball, basketball and group tness.

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

The city’s after-school program is held at the Oscar Johnson Jr. Community Enrichment & Recreation Center. (Courtesy city of Conroe)

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

New year, renewed focus on your health.

As your resource for senior-focused healthcare, Kelsey-Seybold for Seniors can help ensure you receive quality, proactive, coordinated care that understands your changing health needs. There are several ways to learn about your Medicare coverage options, you can review resources from Medicare, contact Medicare Advantage health plans directly, or speak with a licensed insurance agent.* 713-442-8526 (TTY: 711) Choose your Kelsey-Seybold provider today! Calling this number will connect you to a licensed insurance agent.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

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

Market leaders & metro team

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

Chrissy Leggett General Manager cleggett@ communityimpact.com

Nichaela Shaheen Catherine White Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Jake Schlesinger Jesus Verastegui Ronald Winters Managing Editor James T. Norman Product Manager Martha Risinger Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez Houston Market President Jason Culpepper

Lizzy Spangler Editor lspangler@ communityimpact.com

Chelsea Williams Account Executive cwilliams@ communityimpact.com

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Impacts

• 10771 FM 1097, Willis • www.cbac.com

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Willis

3 The Picky Fig The stand is a self-serve, honor-system stop for homemade goods and farm-fresh staples. • Opened in late December • 17091 Hwy. 75, Willis • Instagram: The Picky Fig 4 AtWork The company is dedicated to “connecting people with jobs” and supporting businesses by filling key leadership roles through its Direct Hire program. • Opened Jan. 5 • 717 W. Davis St., Ste. A, Conroe • www.atwork.com/locations/conroe-tx 5 Xin Noodle House Sushi Boba Tea Bar The Asian cuisine restaurant offers a mix of ramen, soups and salad, along with sushi and sashimi. Guests can also order milk teas and other boba drinks. • Opened Nov. 3

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

COLLEGE PARK DR.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

7 National Equipment Dealers The large heavy equipment dealership offers equipment sales, rentals and customer support.

• 10682 FM 1097 W., Willis • Instagram: Daily Ritual Pilates

Now open

• Opened Sept. 16 • 17463 I-45, Willis • www.ned.us

1 Daily Ritual Pilates The gym features in-person classes with instructors as well as private Pilates lessons with a guided digital class for beginners to learn at their own pace. • Opened in January

2 Christian Brothers Automotive The car repair company offers a variety of car maintenance and repair services. • Opened Jan. 26

8 333 Bar and Grill The restaurant offers drinks and food to customers as

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1700 N. Loop 336 W Conroe, TX 77304

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

bedrooms. • 1660 Shafie St., Conroe • www.la-z-boy.com

well as live shows. The bar was the previous location of The Feed Store Grill and Bar. • Opened Dec. 13 • 26333 Old Hwy. 105 W., Montgomery • www.333barmtx.com 9 Every-Bellies Menu items include milkshakes, salads and loaded baked potatoes. The restaurant also has a location in Tomball. • Opened Jan. 7 • 20212 Eva St., Montgomery • www.everybelliesmontgomery.com 10 Activ8 The new athletic training facility offers individual and group training, sports team training, recovery sessions, sports assessments, and hybrid and remote training. • Opened Nov. 1 • 6507 Hwy. 105 W., Ste. D, Conroe • www.activ8tx.com 11 Fleur and Decor The full flower shop offers flowers and floral supplies for weddings and events. • Opened fall 2025 • 21372 Shannon Circle, Ste. D, Montgomery • www.fleuranddecor.com

Now open

14 Aria at Loop 366 The apartment complex has 13 floor plans to choose from for one- to three-bed apartments, ranging in prices from $1,189-$1,769. • 2300 N. Loop 336 W., Conroe • www.ariaat336.com

Expansions

15 Grand Central Park Johnson Development released its final homesites to builders at the 2,046-acre community, including David Weekley Homes, Drees Custom Homes and Highland Homes. • 750 Grand Central Parkway, Conroe • www.grandcentralparktx.com

18 Caffe Di Fiore The restaurant’s second location offers locals a warm, welcoming spot with “something a little different,” blending Mexican and Italian influences alongside familiar American comfort dishes. Menu items include enchiladas, with options include mole, green and red, tomatillo and enfrijoladas, as well as pasta dishes, including penne pesto, gnocchi and italian sausage, spaghetti carbonara and shrimp scampi, among other items. • Opened Jan. 23 • 19380 Hwy. 105 W., Ste. 502, Montgomery • www.caffe-difiore.com

In the news

16 The Woodlands Hair Elite The hair salon celebrated 10 years of service on Dec. 6. Services include cut and style, as well as facial services, among other treatments. • 9420 College Park Drive, Ste. 210, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandshairelite.com 17 The Players Theatre Company The theatre company has been designated a replica chapter of The Penguin Project and will put on a production of “Annie, Jr.” in the spring for actors with disabilities. Performances will take place May 22-24. • 225 Metcalf St., Conroe • www.playerstheatrecompany.com

Coming soon

Cochinitos serves authentic Mexican food including carnitas, enchiladas, tamales and quesadillas. • Opened Nov. 20 • 21005 I-45, Spring • www.loscochinitos.com

12 Alpha Gym The warehouse-style fitness facility will offer a variety of machines, including plate- and pin-loaded machines, free weights and powerlifting equipment. • Opening Feb. 1 • 120 Corporate Drive, Willis • www.alpha-gym.org

Closings

19 Vick’s Texas BBQ The food truck offered local barbecue eats. The business plans to continue doing special events. • Closed Jan. 1 • 2655 FM 1488, Conroe • Facebook: Vick’s Texas BBQ

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

Worth the trip

13 La-Z-Boy The 15,003-square-foot location will offer a variety of furniture for rooms, including living rooms, kitchens and

Los Cochinitos The Mexican dining venue opened on Nov. 20. Los

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY ATIRIKTA KUMAR

Mike Holley, Montgomery County’s new district attorney, discusses his career and top priorities

to modernize. We are traditional, but we look for things that are innovative that help us do the work the right way. And so, for example, we transition from paper les to paper list les, from CDs or DVDs with video on them to a server with a link. ... We’re using [articial intelligence] in some ways to help us with some of our work. What are some initiatives that your predecessor had that you want to continue or some new initiatives that you want to introduce? What we’ve done really well is ... we take calls from police at the scene, and we handle those calls from the start, which is unusual. It’s very unusual. In many jurisdictions, a prosecutor won’t get a case until days, weeks, sometimes months after the arrest, and a lot can happen in that time, including the possibility that somebody may have been charged inappropriately. We’re going to continue to be very aggressive in the Internet Crimes Against Children world. Unfor- tunately, crime doesn’t stay static either, and the use of computers and the exploitation of children, the people who do that are getting more aggressive. And so we’re responding in kind. And we have built a lab here ... to be able to get into computers, get into cellphones, so ... one of the things that we will do is continue to build that and develop that. I would like to advance the ability for our prosecutors to get into the courtroom and have the visuals they need and the resources they need. What are some other big crime challenges in the community? A perpetual problem we’ve had in Montgomery

Mike Holley began serving as Montgomery Coun- ty’s new district attorney in late October, after being appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott on Oct. 29. Holley succeeds former DA Brett Ligon, who resigned from the position in early October to run for Texas Senate District 4—Brandon Crighton’s seat, which he vacated due to being named chancellor and CEO at Texas Tech University. In an interview, Holley discussed his career journey, his top priorities and the crime challenges he sees in Montgomery County. What are your top priorities in the new role? If I was going to summarize my kind of philos- ophy ... is that people who are doing good things should be happy in this county, and people who are doing bad things should be scared. ... I want families and students and kids and retirees, and people who are working, or just anybody ... if they’re trying to do the right things, I want them to be safe and nd joy. But for the people who commit serious crimes, they need serious time, and I want them to be afraid that if they’re in this county, ... they’re going to be arrested, and ... we’re going to prosecute them. Beyond that, not every crime is a serious crime, and not every defendant has to go to prison. There are other things that we can do to restore people to our community and to their families, and we do that. Veterans Treatment Court is an example. Drug Court, DWI Court, those kind of things. What’s your vision for the department as the community is also growing? Brett ... had a vision for what it looks like, and I’m going to continue that vision, which is, we continue

Mike Holley (left) succeeds Brett Ligon as the county’s district attorney after Ligon resigned to run for Texas Senate District 4.

COURTESY MONTGOMERY COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE

County is impaired driving. And you’re not likely to be killed in a murder in this county. ... They do occur, but they’re fairly infrequent, but we have impaired drivers who hurt and kill people, ... and so when we have an intoxication manslaughter or an intoxication assault, we can be at the scene and help law enforcement. Those cases are complicated. They’re as complicated as any murder, because you have the issues of impairment from the driver, but you also have issues of causation. It can get very technical with the science of accident reconstruc- tion. And so we’re going to press that.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com .

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Government

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

Conroe sets aside venue land at Technology Park Conroe City Council voted Jan. 8 to support reserving about 42 acres inside the city’s Technol- ogy Park for a future public “venue” concept—an idea city sta compared to attractions such as The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and Houston’s Discovery Green. Deputy City Administrator Nancy Mikeska told council the park has “struggled all along,” citing airport-related height limits and pointing to deteriorating infrastructure, including ponds and fountains that “don’t work.” The gist The framework presented would reserve 21 acres for the concept plus roughly 20 acres for parking and future growth, with about 163 acres remaining for other development. Concept elements discussed included amphi- theaters, trails, a man-made lake, a splash pad, food truck space and a dog park. Council’s action signaled support but did not approve funding. Council approved the resolution 4-1, with Mayor Pro Tem Howard Wood voting against it; the proposal next goes to the Conroe Industrial Development Corp. Montgomery County OKs grant extension Montgomery County commissioners approved two extension requests Dec. 16 tied to disaster recovery grants used for buyout projects stemming from Hurricane Harvey and the 2016 storm. What you need to know The Harvey grant extension request runs through Feb. 28, 2027, while the 2016 storm and ood grant extension request runs through April 30, 2026, documents show. Jason Millsaps, executive director of the Montgomery County Oce of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, told commissioners the extensions allow the county and partner agencies to keep working on existing grants and “buyout property.”

Montgomery talks $10M city complex Montgomery City Council got an early look Dec. 9 at a concept to convert the former Jim’s Hardware building near Liberty Street into a combined municipal complex and police department. Jon Stevens, a representative with McFate Group, told the council the current design envisions a 32,000-square-foot, two-story building with an estimated $10 million price tag, stressing the drawings remain preliminary. Stay tuned Stevens said the next step would be a proposal for full architectural and engineer- ing services to rene the design.

Council approved the resolution to reserve the land 41, with Mayor Pro Tem Howard Wood voting against it.

RENDERING COURTESY CITY OF CONROE

1484

DEISON PARK BLVD.

CLEPPER DR.

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Conroe OKs Westside Recreation demolition Conroe City Council voted Dec. 11 to move forward with demolishing the Westside Recreation Center, with city sta citing ongoing deterioration and the building’s location in a oodway. Deputy City Administrator Nancy Mikeska said the city completed environmental work and Federal Emergency Management Agency permit- ting, received six bids and selected the lowest. The agenda item lists the demolition cost at $88,227 with an estimated 40-day completion timeline. In a nutshell Mikeska cited issues including a re, break-ins, utilities being cut o and “severe mold” inside the building. She also emphasized the center is located in a oodway and said prior spending on the building “should not have been spent” because proper permitting and oodway requirements were not followed.

According to the agenda item, the cost of demolition is slated at $88,227 and has a completion date of 40 days.

COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY ANGELA BONILLA

Conroe ISD considers changes to rental policy The Conroe ISD board of trustees reviewed possible changes to its policy on renting school facilities to the public at its Dec. 16 meeting and planned to discuss it again in January. How we got here A fee schedule was approved by trustees in 2014, establishing pricing for district facility rentals at a rate that allowed the district to recover costs. That same year, an online rental system was created through which the public could make reservations. Assistant Superintendent of Operations Chris McCord said the district recently conducted a review of area districts and rental types to ensure consistency and fair pricing. Policy breakdown One of the recommendations the board discussed Dec. 16 was to add a provision to allow teachers to

Cost comparison Conroe ISD compared the cost of a four-hour cafeteria rental among several local districts.

$980

$850*

$700 $700 $648*

$660

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Conroe ISD

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Klein ISD

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Katy ISD

*THREEHOUR CAFETERIA RENTAL

SOURCE: CONROE ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

conduct private for-prot tutoring using district facilities such as a school cafeteria. Superintendent David Vinson said the district will research whether surrounding districts allow teachers to conduct for- prot tutoring. “Generally speaking, on the athletic end, the athletic coaches pay a reduced rate to rent the facilities com- pared to if it was truly outside [the district],” McCord said. No decision was made, and the board was slated to discuss the matter Jan. 20, after press time.

FEB. 14TH 11 AM - 5PM

CISD board lls trustee position in 42 vote

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The Conroe ISD board of trustees on Jan. 13 voted 4-2 to appoint Agueda Gambino to ll the unexpired term for the vacant trustee Position

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Agueda Gambino

CISD hosts ceremony for Timber Mill High School Conroe ISD held its topping-out ceremony Dec. 10 for its new Timber Mill High School, located at 2700 N. Loop 336 E. in Conroe. The gist CISD celebrated a milestone as the nal beam was lifted and placed on top of the new high school, which is set to open in August 2027. The school will create a feeder zone with students from Conroe and Caney Creek high schools. The school is one of the projects in the $1.8 billion bond from 2023.

Dec. 9 resignation of trustee Tiany Baumann Nelson, who was elected to the board in 2022, as previously reported by Community Impact . Nelson resigned because she is campaigning for the Texas State Board of Education District 6 seat in the Republican primary March 3. Per the district, Gambino is a longtime CISD community member, a parent of children cur- rently enrolled in CISD schools and a business owner. Trustees Marianne Horton and Melissa Semmler voted against the motion, and com- mented on the appointment process as a factor in their votes.

CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY VANESSA HOLT & HANNAH NORTON

Voter Guide

2026

Dates to know

Where to vote

Feb. 17: First day of early voting Feb. 20: Last day to apply for a ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Feb. 27: Last day of early voting March 3: Election day and the last day for counties to receive completed mail-in ballots (or 5 p.m. March 4 if the carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. on election day)

Registered voters may cast ballots in either Texas’ Republican or Democratic primary, but not both. Third-party candidates will appear on the ballot in November. Montgomery County residents can cast their ballots at any early voting polling location during early voting and must vote in their precinct on election day. Visit https://elections.mctx.org for polling locations.

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

KEY: R Republican D Democrat *Incumbent

State Board of Education, District 6 R Barbara Denson R Tiffany Nelson Montgomery County County Judge R Mark Keough* R Wayne Mack Commissioner, Precinct 2 R Charlie Riley* R Bob Harvey Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1 R Brian Luly R Scott Carson R William Waggoner Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5 R Ashton Hedrick R Billy Masden

R R.F. “Bob” Achgill R Ronnie Tullos

D Courtney Head D Vikki Goodwin D Marcos Isaias Velez Attorney general R Aaron Reitz R Chip Roy R Mayes Middleton R Joan Huffman D Nathan Johnson D Joe Jaworski

Sample ballot

R Arturo Espinosa R Nathaniel Welch R Greg Abbott* R Stephen Samuelson D Chris Bell D Bobby Cole D Jose Navarro Balbuena D Patricia Abrego D Angela “Tia Angie” Villescaz D Andrew White D Zach Vance D Gina Hinojosa

Federal elections U.S. House, District 8

R Brett Jensen R Stephen Long R Jay Fondren R Jessica Hart Steinmann R Nick Tran R Deddrick T. Wilmer D Laura Jones D Keith Coleman

D Anthony “Tony” Box Texas House, District 3 R Cecil Bell, Jr.* R Kristen Plaisance D James Franklin Alvarado D Nicole King Texas House, District 16 R Jon Bouche R Will Metcalf*

State elections Governor R Kenneth Hyde R Mark V. Goloby R Evelyn Brooks

D Carlton W. Hart Lieutenant governor R Dan Patrick* R Timothy Mabry R Perla Muñoz Hopkins R Esala Wueschner

R Pete “Doc” Chambers R Charles Andrew Crouch

NOTE: TO VIEW THE FULL LIST OF ALL CONTESTED STATE AND NATIONAL RACES, VISIT WWW.COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM/VOTER-GUIDE.

SOURCES: MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Election

KEY: R Republican *Incumbent

Montgomery County judge, Republican primary

What are the biggest challenges facing Montgomery County? We face pressure from rapid growth, rising regional crime and aging infrastructure. The challenge is building a modern jail, courthouse and wider roads without turning into Harris County. I am committed to managing this growth responsibly, keeping our community secure and fighting for low taxes.

What would your top priorities be if elected?

To protect our quality of life, we need a modern jail, courthouse and expanded roads. I’ve used my current term to lay the foundation for these improvements; in my next, we will deliver them. These are vital investments in our safety and economy that we must see through.

Mark Keough* Occupation & Experience: Montgomery County judge,

2019-present; state representative 2014-18; dealer principal/general manager, automotive industry www.markkeough.org

My priorities will always be fiscal discipline, public safety, infrastructure planning and restoring collaboration within county government. Leadership means aligning budget outcomes and managing the growth responsibilities that are inevitable in our county. Ensuring county services operate efficiently, transparently and with respect to taxpayers. Leadership should never be optional.

Rapid growth; rising property taxes and insurance costs; infrastructure strain; and the need for stronger coordination among county departments and partner agencies to serve residents effectively.

Wayne Mack Occupation & Experience: Almost 40 years of public service, law enforcement experience, executive leadership, community-based problem solving www.waynemack.org

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

Creating A Texas 1st Agenda - Not Politics - Focusing On Our Future! Common Sense. Bipartisan Leadership. A Better Washington.

• Modernize and Protect Medicare, Social Security & VA • Allocate Earmarks & Grants to Fund Law Enforcement Agencies to Improve Response Times • Fund & build an underground flood control project that redistributes flood waters to Galveston Bay • Provide Tri-Care For Life for all veterans & improve access to services • Eliminate Federal income taxes for ALL active duty members & disabled veterans • Ensure housing vouchers and support services to prevent any veteran from being homeless

• Develop a comprehensive immigration policy that moves us forward • Eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy and reduce excessive costs to deliver real solutions

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

KEY: R Republican *Incumbent

How will you work with state and local entities regarding issues such as transportation and public safety? I will partner closely with [Texas Department of Transportation] and local agencies through consultative oversight to improve transportation safety and congestion. I’ll prioritize county spending to address access, bottlenecks and hazards, while collaborating across federal, state and local entities on a multicounty master water management plan supporting ood control, drainage and long-term resiliency. I will continue working closely with TxDOT, regional planning organizations, law enforcement agencies and local governments. Many transportation and public safety solutions require cooperation, shared funding and long-term coordination to deliver projects that improve safety, reduce congestion and strengthen emergency response capabilities.

Montgomery County Commissioner, Precinct 2

What would your top priorities be if elected?

My top priorities are accountability and transparency: commissioning independent nancial, compliance and ethics forensic audits; and conducting thorough contract performance reviews using respected national auditors to ensure taxpayer dollars are protected and used eectively.

Bob Harvey Experience: executive leader with full P&L, served on eight boards of directors, including president director roles ... www.bobharveyfortexas.com

My top priorities are supporting law enforcement; maintaining and improving roads; managing growth responsibly; and protecting taxpayers. That includes funding public safety needs; completing voter- approved infrastructure projects; improving mobility and evacuation routes; and continuing a disciplined budget approach that keeps the county’s tax rate as low as possible.

Charlie Riley* Occupation & Experience: county commissioner; 13-year Precinct 2 operations manager; Magnolia ISD trustee, several past nonprot board… www.charlieriley.org

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Election

KEY: R Republican *Incumbent

Texas House of Representatives, District 3

Why are you running for office?

What are the biggest challenges facing District 3?

For the last few years, I have listened to constituents and worked hard to pass conservative priorities that really make a difference in their lives. I want to continue working hard for the people of this district.

Runaway property taxes. Out of control appraisals. Water cost and availability.

Cecil Bell Jr.* Occupation & experience:

contractor (water & wastewater construction); self-employed since 1983, providing jobs and critical infrastructure to Texans www.cecilbelljr.org

I got really tired of watching our legislature capitulate to special interests, violating our rights with unconstitutional bills; spending money out of control without constitutional authority—mostly on self-interested bills, vote buying (stealing money from taxpayers to give to special groups), corporate welfare and crony deals; and taxing us to …

I’ve been out at events and door-to-door talking to the people of House District 3. The overwhelming number of people I talk to are concerned about the burden of high property taxes and the ever- increasing cost of living. Their dollars just don’t go as far as they....

Kristen Plaisance Occupation & experience: retired real estate and commercial photographer; constitutional scholar, election security-auditor/ activists, won against government www.kristenplaisance.com

Paid Political Advertisement REPUBLICAN PRIMARY VOTERS

Elect: George Brian Vachris to State Board of Education District 8 Licensed Engineer, Former Teacher in Houston ISD, taught at a Title 1 School for 9 years. Dedicated to improving: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (S.T.E.M.) Curricula. Familiar with the Texas Education Agency Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) Course Framework. He successfully testified against a bad proposed engineering course to have it rewritten and redesignated, in November 2024. He testified at a Texas State Senate Committee against the use of incorrect pronoun designations and transgender transitions. This should have no place in our public schools. Patriotism and the benefits of free market economies versus socialist and communist economies must be taught. By Law, SB 24 requires that the State incorporate the teaching of the evils of communist regimes, the mass starvations, the terror under Stalin and Mao, the rise of communism in Latin America, etc. The provisions of the law must be incorporated into the TEKS for chapter 113 (social studies). This law is NOT on the list of new requirements on the TEA website! Why? He will pay attention to details and work to adjust the TEKS. Part of his testimony is shown below. He has 4 degrees in various fields, helped write the Republican Platform.

THE PURPOSE OF THIS STATEMENT IS TO REMIND THE BOARD THAT SENATE BILL 24 REQUIRES THE STATE TO TEACH THE DANGERS AND CRIMES OF COMMUNIST REGIMES…THE KEY TO ADOPTING SB 24 INTO THE CURRICULUM IS TO ENSURE THAT ALL OF THE PROVISIONS ARE INCORPORATED INTO THE TEKS FOR THE …REQUIRED COURSES… [Part of his Testimony Before S.B.O.E. Nov. 19, 2025]

Conservative Republican Dedicated Patriot Educator www.vachriscampaign.com Paid Political Advertisement by Vachris Campaign, Eric A. Scott, Treasurer

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COLE GEE

KEY: R Republican *Incumbent

Texas House of Representatives, District 16

What are the biggest challenges facing Texas House District 16? Property tax relief and predictability for homeowners and businesses, smart investment in critical infrastructure such as transportation and water. Like my work this session, securing $15 million in state funding for Conroe water projects and protecting the conservative family values that make Montgomery County the best place to live.

Why are you running for office?

I am running to continue delivering real, conservative results for Montgomery County. My record proves I know how to bring resources home, fight for taxpayers and solve problems for our community. This district deserves a proven workhorse who shows up, gets results and puts Montgomery County first every time.

Will Metcalf* Occupation & experience: banker, state representative, lifelong Montgomery County resident, business background, decade of conservative, results-driven legislative service www.willmetcalf.com Jon Bouche Occupation & experience: real estate agent; vice president MCRP, 2020-25, Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District board and vice president, 2020-present www.bouchefortexas.com

Because I believe that people of House District 16 need better representation in Austin.

House District 16 has many pressing issues due to rapid and expanding growth. These include water infrastructure needs, a courthouse and more jail space, just to name a few.

twisted trail ranch Your Trusted Horse Riding Lesson & Event Facility • Riding Lessons Tailored for Beginners to Intermediate Riders (Private lessons for women and kids!)

• Host Your Next Event, Kids’ Birthday Party, Clinic, or Workshop at Twisted Trail Ranch • Family-owned & operated with heart and integrity

Email At info@twistedtrailranch.com To Schedule Your Horseback Riding Lesson, Boarding Or Event Ranch Location 11793 FM 1484 Conroe, Texas 77303

GROW YOUR BUSINESS AT WILLIS BUSINESS PARK

Now leasing at the Willis Business Park located on Highway 75 in the heart of growing Willis, Texas. This location offers excellent visibility and easy access for customers. Now leasing retail spaces from 1,500–3,000 sq. ft. Ideal for: Restaurant or café Coffee shop • Insurance or professional office • Service-oriented local businesses Flex/industrial space is also available

Billy.masden@mctx.org • 281.635.8769 @billymasden • Billymasden-pct5mctx.com Pol. Ad paid for by The Masden for Justice of the Peace Campaign, Treasurer: Victoria Roberts ENDORSEMENTS: Republican Voters of Texas (PAC) Montgomery County Law Enforcement Association (MCLEA) Christian Collins — Founder of Texas Youth Summit Sheri Tommy Gage Sheri Joe Corley

in 2,500–5,000 sq. ft. units, with additional land for future growth

CONTACT: JOYCE SERNEC | JOYCESERNEC@GMAIL.COM | 832-309-9437 Sign a lease within the next 3 months and enjoy FREE ADVERTISING ON OUR PROMINENT PYLON SIGN FOR ONE YEAR! Highway 75 – Willis, TX

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

We’re branching out!

New location opening soon in Montgomery County

Briarley: space to live. Montgomery: a town to love. THE HOMES: • From the high $500s • Tour our model home: 119 Plott Hound Dr, Montgomery, TX 77316 THE COMMUNITY: • Conveniently located off Highway 105 • Just minutes from heart of Montgomery • Future recreation center, scenic walking trails, lakes, and pocket parks

We are excited to announce a new commercial lending office opening in Montgomery County in 2026, providing outstanding service, fast answers, and tailored products to fit you and your business’ needs. Look for new full-service banking centers to follow as we expand into Montgomery County and North Houston communities.

105

Montgomery

FIND YOUR HOME

855.259.8075 MoodyBank.com

149

Briarley

MEMBERFDIC

149

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY LIZZY SPANGLER

KEY: D Democrat R Republican *Incumbent

U.S. House, District 8, Republican primary

What would your top priorities be if elected?

Jay Fondren Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Brett Jensen Occupation & experience: Entrepreneur and business operator who has created thousands of jobs and understands nance and budgets. www.jensenfortexas.com

Stephen Long Occupation & experience: Oil eld service companies for over 30 years in the United States and International Facebook: Stephen Long for Congress TX-8

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Supporting President Trump’s agenda: secure our borders, deport illegal immigrants, reduce government in our lives, lower taxes, ensure election integrity, boost domestic energy production, and strongly support law enforcement.

Support eorts to restore scal responsibility & reduce the national debt; strengthen the economy by supporting businesses and innovation; deliver smart, cost-eective solutions for infrastructure & community.

Nick Tran Occupation & experience: Combat veteran and oil & gas professional. www.nicktranfortexas.com

Deddrick T. Wilmer Occupation & experience: Harris County MUD #248 elected board director & board secretary, founder & president of Gumbeaux Lending Corporation www.wilmerfortexas.com

Jessica Steinmann Occupation & experience:

Attorney, Trump-appointed senior ocial at DOJ, executive general counsel at America First Policy Institute www.jessicasteinmann.com

Stop Invasion: securing borders & immigration reform. Cut taxes/spending for aordability. Protecting the Constitution.

TRICARE for Life for veterans & spouses; funding for underground ood control; Funding for small communities.

My top priority is delivering results for the American people. I have taken on the woke left before and won. Using my experience, I will cut reckless spending, secure the border, unleash American energy, and advance the America First agenda for our community.

U.S. House, District 8, Democratic primary

What would your top priorities be if elected?

Laura Jones Occupation & experience: Real estate broker, farmer, small business owner, former county chair for San Jacinto Democratic Party www.laura4tx.com

Keith Coleman Occupation & experience: Business owner, 22 year Marine veteran, K-12 educator and college professor www.colemanfortexas.com

clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

Securing a living wage for working-class Americans, Medicare for All, and funding education from pre-K through trade school. I’ll ght to bring federal investment home, protect and expand Social Security, and ensure economic fairness for working families, not the wealthy elite.

I will focus on strengthening local infrastructure, expanding economic opportunities, supporting veterans, enhancing education and workforce development, and safeguarding community health. My goal is to deliver practical solutions that help families in Montgomery, Walker, Waller, and Harris counties prosper.

CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Transportation

Events

Willis

Montgomery

BY VANESSA HOLT

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

1097

LONE STAR PKWY.

LAKE CONROE

• Timeline: November 2024-third quarter 2027 • Cost: $20.57 million

• The Owen Theatre, 225 Metcalf St., Conroe • www.playerstheatrecompany.com

Ongoing projects

February

• Funding source: state funds 4 I-45 direct connector

830

1 Hwy. 105 widening Project: Hwy. 105 is being widened from two to four lanes between 10th Street and South Loop 336. Update: This project is 57% completed, officials said. • Timeline: March 2023-second quarter 2028 • Cost: $52.65 million • Funding source: state funds 2 I-45 high-occupancy vehicle lane extension Project: The high-occupancy vehicle lane of I-45 between FM 1488 and South Loop 336 South is being extended by 2.2 miles. Update: Construction is 79% completed for this project, according to the Texas Department of Transportation’s Jan. 7 media update. • Timeline: second quarter 2025-fourth quarter 2025 • Cost: $1.26 million

My Crafty Galentine Presented by Crafter’s Dream Retreat, participants can craft during a six-session class. • Feb. 4-7, 6-10 p.m. • $225-$525 • Hyatt Regency Conroe, 1001 Grand Central Parkway, Conroe • www.craftersdreamretreat.com Conroe Boat Show Attendees can explore boats, including pontoons, fishing boats and family-ready vessels. • Feb. 6, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Feb. 7, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Feb. 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • Lone Star Convention Center, 9055 Airport Road, Conroe • www.texasmarine.com ‘Rumors’ at the Owen Theatre Presented by the Players Theatre Company, the play takes place in an upscale New York home where four

1097

‘Of Mice and Men’ The Crighton Theatre is presenting “Of Mice and Men” based on the 1937 novel. • Feb. 6-7, Feb. 13-14, Feb. 20-21, 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 8, Feb. 15, Feb. 22, 2 p.m. • $24-$34 (admission) • Crighton Theatre, 234 North Main St., Conroe • www.crightontheatre.org Children’s Safe Harbor’s clay tournament Clay sport enthusiasts are invited to this third annual event to support the Montgomery County Children’s Advocacy Center. • Feb. 20, noon

TERRA VISTA DR.

2432

ATKINS CREEK

FISH CREEK THOROUGHFARE Project: The project will widen FM 1097 from two to four lanes with a continuous left-turn lane between west of Blueberry Hills Road to Lake Conroe Hills Drive. Update: Work on this project is 87% completed. • Timeline: second quarter 2022-second quarter 2026 • Cost: $20.21 million • Funding source: federal, state funds 6 FM 1097 at Atkins Creek project Project: Work is underway at the intersection of FM 1097 and Atkins Creek. Update: This project is 43% completed. • Timeline: third quarter 2025-third quarter 2026 • Cost: $4.41 million • Funding source: federal, state funds 149 Project: A direct connector is being constructed to connect northbound I-45 to eastbound Hwy. 242. Update: This project is 13% completed. • Timeline: second quarter 2025-third quarter 2028 • Cost: $42.63 million • Funding source: federal, state funds 5 FM 1097 widening 149 2854 KEENAN CUT OFF RD.

BLUEBERRY HILL

1097

Conroe LAKE CONROE HILLS DR.

LONGMIRE RD.

N. 10TH ST.

105

LADERA CREEK TRACE

3083

336

Lone Star Throwdown The Lone Star Throwdown returns with 2,000 show vehicles that will be competing for one of the top 100 awards. • Feb. 20-21, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Feb. 22, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. • $20 (spectator), $80 (online vehicle registration) • Lone Star Expo Center &Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 9255 Airport Road, Conroe • www.lonestarthrowdown.com

• $125 (individual shooter) • 1519 Oddfellow St., Conroe • www.childrenssafeharbor.org

1314

• Funding source: federal, state funds 3 South Loop 336 widening

Go Texan Parade The 61st annual Go Texan Parade will be located in

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

1488

Downtown Conroe. • Feb. 21, 1-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • Downtown Conroe • www.conroe.org

Project: Between I-45 and Ladera Creek Trace, South Loop 336 is being widened from two to four lanes with a continuous left-turn lane. Update: This project is 58% completed.

couples arrive for a dinner party. • Feb. 6-7, 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 8, 2 p.m. • $21-$30 (admission)

242

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

CONROE 1304 W Davis (936) 539-8787 NORTH CONROE 18434 Hwy 105 W (936) 582-5410

MONTGOMERY PLAZA 1420 N Loop 336 W (936) 441-7161

WILLIS 9618 FM 1097 (936) 228-0385

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