Lake Houston - Humble - Kingwood Edition | December 2024

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Lake Houston Humble Kingwood Edition VOLUME 9, ISSUE 8 DEC. 19, 2024JAN. 30, 2025

Humble ISD formally terminates Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen

the hearing, independent hearing examiner Karen Egbuna sided with the district and recommended that trustees terminate Fagen’s contract. While board members have already initiated the process of nding a new superintendent, Fagen said she will appeal Egbuna’s recommen- dation to TEA Commissioner Mike Morath. “The recommendation is just fundamentally awed,” Fagen said to Community Impact after the Nov. 26 meeting. “There was a lot of stu said in there that was never proven. There was no evidence with it.”

BY WESLEY GARDNER

Humble ISD is poised to appoint new leadership following the board’s Nov. 26 vote to formally terminate Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen’s contract. The decision to oust Fagen came about four months after HISD trustees voted to propose the termination of Fagen’s contract. Fagen appealed the board’s decision to the Texas Education Agency, which resulted in a three- day hearing spanning more than 30 hours over Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and Nov. 6. In a Nov. 25 report detailing the ndings of

CONTINUED ON 16

Former Humble ISD Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen sits in the district’s board room for the rst time since being placed on paid leave in May, as her attorney Kevin O’Hanlon speaks at the board’s Nov. 26 meeting.

COURTESY JAMAAL ELLIS

Also in this issue

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Community: See how the newly opened Humble Senior Activity Center has expanded programming (Page 19)

Nonprofit: Learn more about how the Humble Atascocita Baseball Association oers low-cost team ball (Page 21)

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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. About Community Impact

Market leaders & metro team

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

Kinsey Crabtree General Manager kcrabtree@ communityimpact.com

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1485

1314

Impacts

99 TOLL

VALLEY RANCH PKWY.

494

3 Conchas Bolillo Cafe Owned by Marisol and Jorge Cuevas, this bakery offers a variety of Mexican pastries, as well as coffee and espresso drinks. • Opened in July • 409 E. Main St., Humble • www.sites.google.com/view/conchasbolillocafebakery 4 The Rowdy Chick The boutique offers apparel, accessories and gift items, and is “inspired and created for the everyday girl’s girl.” • Opened Dec. 6 5 Space City Pet Spa Owned by Ginger McPherson, this pet spa offers full- service bathing and grooming services by appointment, and features a self-wash room with supplies provided. • Opened Oct. 25 • 13157 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Houston • www.spacecitypetspa.com 6 Rise Modern Wellness The business offers advanced holistic wellness services including cryotherapy, infrared sauna therapy, dry salt therapy, red light therapy, compression therapy and body sculpting. • Opened Nov. 22 • 14555 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Ste. D, Houston • www.risemodernwellness.com/locations/lake-houston • 307 E. Main St., Humble • www.therowdychick.com 7 The Annie Cafe & Bar Now open inside George Bush Intercontinental Airport’s new Terminal D-West Pier, the all-day, full-service dining option offers signature menu items such as crab tostadas, steak salad and The Cafe Burger. • Opened Nov. 20 • 2800 N. Terminal Road, Houston • www.theanniehouston.com LoopDeco This furniture removal company launched its services in the Greater Houston area earlier this year. The company provides furniture removal services to retailers and

LAKE HOUSTON WILDERNESS PARK

FORD RD.

WOODLAND HILLS DR.

N O R T H P A R

SORTERS MCCLELLAN RD.

TOWNSEN BLVD.

Kingwood

CHESTNUT RIDGE RD.

LAKE HOUSTON

UPPER LAKE DR.

HOUSTON AVE.

1960

1960 BYPASS

F I RST ST.

1960

W. LAKE HOUSTON PKWY.

E. MAIN ST.

4 3

Humble

TIMBER FOREST DR.

WILL CLAYTON PKWY.

Atascocita

GREENS RD.

MADERA RUN PKWY.

ALDINE BENDER RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

2 El Jimador Now with three Lake Houston-area locations, the Houston-based eatery offers a menu of fajitas, burritos, tacos and enchiladas, as well as a full bar serving margaritas by the glass or pitcher. • Opened this fall

Now open

1 Los Alebrijes Mexican Restaurant The restaurant offers dishes ranging from fajitas and enchiladas, to birria tacos and pozole. Cocktails such as margaritas and palomas are also available. • Opened in November • 4510 FM 1960, Humble • www.instagram.com/los.alebrijes.restaurant

• 1578 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood • www.eljimadorrestaurantgrill.com

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

12 Chase Bank Construction on a new 3,500-square-foot location of this bank is set to begin in January and wrap up by December, according to a Nov. 22 TDLR filing. • Intersection of Woodland Hills Drive and Madera Run Parkway in Humble (exact address TBD) • www.chase.com 13 Walmart Renovations are set to begin in February and wrap up in June on this Supercenter in Humble, according to a Dec. 5 TDLR filing. The project includes an expansion for an online grocery department and upgrades to the store’s pharmacy, vision center, deli and bakery. • 6626 E. FM 1960 Road, Humble • www.walmart.com/store/744-humble-tx 14 Cypress Woods-Sky Active Living Renovations on this senior living facility are expected to wrap up by Jan. 31, according to a Nov. 27 TDLR filing. The renovations will include new flooring, fixtures and wall finishes.

consumers, with most furniture able to be removed within 24-48 hours. • Launched in August • Serves the Greater Houston area • www.loopdeco.com

In the news

Coming soon

8 Sparks Gymnastics Academy Owned by Coach Tony Pineda, this new gym will offer tumbling and gymnastics classes ranging in skill level from beginner to advanced for preschool- and school- aged children. The gym will also be available to host birthday parties and will offer open gym hours. • Opening Jan. 4 • 7450 Will Clayton Parkway, Humble • www.spark-gymnastics.com 9 Un Cafe con El Maestro Owned by nonprofit Ministerio de Honra Inc. and Jero Fashion Group, this coffee shop will offer a space for Bible study, Christian counseling and meditation. The location will also feature a drive-thru. • Opening in mid to late January • 1701 Wilson Road, Ste. 100, Humble • www.uncafeconelmaestro.org

18 Portillo’s Construction is slated to begin June 2 and wrap up by Nov. 3 on a new location of this Chicago street food concept in Humble, according to a Nov. 14 filing with TDLR. The fast-casual restaurant offers a menu of Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches and char-grilled burgers. According to the filing, the new-build, 6,160-square-foot restaurant will feature indoor and outdoor seating as well as a drive-thru. • 111 FM 1960 Bypass Road E., Humble • www.portillos.com

• 2755 Chestnut Ridge Road, Kingwood • www.sodalissenior.com/cypress-woods

15 Fresenius Kidney Care Interior renovations on this clinic in Humble began Oct. 15 and are expected to be complete by Dec. 31, according to a Sept. 24 TDLR filing. The project will convert an exam room into a training space for home dialysis, and convert a storage space into an exam room. • 9767 FM 1960 Bypass Road, Humble • www.freseniuskidneycare.com 16 Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office Construction on a new addition to the office’s training facility in Humble is slated to begin in January and wrap up by June, according to a Nov. 14 TDLR filing. The 5,900-square-foot addition will feature office and classroom space. • 2318 Atascocita Road, Humble • www.hcfmo.net 17 Ashton Gray Construction on a new medical office began Nov. 5 and

In the news

10 HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood Adrian Moreno was named the hospital’s new chief operating officer effective Nov. 18, hospital system officials announced in an Oct. 30 news release. • 22999 Hwy. 59 N., Kingwood • www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/locations/kingwood 11 BioLife Plasma Services Construction is expected to begin in February and wrap up by Aug. 4 on a new plasma donation center in Humble, according to a Sept. 30 filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The company compensates donors for their plasma, which is then used to help patients facing serious health challenges. • 9785 FM 1960 Bypass, Humble • www.biolifeplasma.com

is expected to wrap up in February, according to Nov. 19 TDLR filing. • 11325 N. Sam Houston Parkway E., Humble • www.ashtongray.com

Worth the trip

The PickleBall Zone The pickleball sports complex features 10 courts, offers private and group lessons, and hosts tournaments. • Opened Dec. 2 • 22056 W. Ford Road, Porter • www.thepbz.com

LAKE HOUSTON - HUMBLE - KINGWOOD EDITION

Government

City of Humble approves changes to city health insurance plan Humble City Council members approved several changes to the city’s health insurance plan Nov. 14, including approving a mandatory shift for retirees on the plan to marketplace health insurance. What you need to know Sean Waggoner, executive vice president of Alliant Retirement Consulting—which oversees the city’s health insurance—said additional changes include: • A 3% increase to high deductible-based plans • A 7% increase to preferred provider organiza- tion, or PPO, plans • Partnering with Next Level Prime for urgent care The city self-funds its health insurance plan for employees. However, Waggoner said without

Houston City Council district launches clean medians initiative Houston City Council District E launched a new initiative in November to help clean up and maintain medians throughout the district, council member Fred Flickinger announced in a Nov. 15 newsletter. The overview According to the newsletter, medians, rights of way and city-owned properties in District E, including Kingwood, will be mowed, edged and trimmed as-needed to ensure maintenance is done in a timely manner. The rst work orders were issued to landscaping vendors Nov. 19. District E has allocated $50,000 in Council District Service Funds for this initiative to be distributed across the district.

“It’s not that we’re kicking o the retirees from the insurance. We’re actually providing them with, I think, a better product.” JASON STUEBE, HUMBLE CITY MANAGER

the changes, the city would have to fund a 117.3% increase in 2025 to mainly fund retiree benets. “We want to make sure we oer retiree benets, and this is a trend that a lot of municipalities around the country are dealing with right now,” Waggoner said during the meeting. Diving deeper The city will work with Alliant Individual Health Solutions to provide subsidies to retirees to purchase marketplace insurance. The subsidy will be paid out yearly, budgeted at $770.83 per month. Waggoner said the company would assist retirees with navigating the health insurance marketplace.

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BY HANNAH BROL, CASSANDRA JENKINS, ANNA LOTZ & JESSICA SHORTEN

LGBTQIA+ commission presents rst report Members of Harris County’s rst LGBTQIA+ commission presented the organization’s inaugural report during the Nov. 12 Harris County Commis- sioners Court meeting. The backstory Spearheaded by Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones, the court voted in June 2023 to create the county’s rst LGBTQIA+ commission, which is made up of 10 volunteer members appointed by the court. The commission serves in an advisory function to the court providing recommendations regarding improvements for the LGBTQIA+ community. Major takeaways The commission hosted a series of listening ses- sions, during which LGBTQIA+ residents and allies voiced concerns on issues such as safety, access to mental health resources, representation and support

Sports Authority names new CEO, chair In November, Ryan Walsh and Juan C. Gar- cia were named the new CEO and board chair, respectively, of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority. What you need to know Eective immediately, Walsh—the former CEO and executive director of the Harris County Sports and Convention Corporation— will be taking the place of former CEO Janis Burke, following her departure in October. Meanwhile, Garcia will be taking the place of former Chair J. Kent Friedman following his departure in October. Garcia’s term is eective immediately and expires Aug. 31, 2025. The HCHSA was created in 1997 to nance, maintain and build sports venues in Houston, and has since expanded to also promote the region for sports-related events.

“This commission is history-making and gives our community a voice we have never had before.” BRAD PRITCHETT, HARRIS

COUNTY LGBTQIA+ COMMISSION CHAIR

for LGBTQIA+ youth encountering hostility. The report included the following recommendations: • Enhancing local data collection through a quality-of-life survey • Becoming the named LGBTQIA+ liaison and advisory council for the Harris County Sheri’s Oce, and other county departments • Introducing consistent LGBTQIA+ awareness and cultural competency training for Harris County law enforcement agencies • Developing a pipeline of qualied LGBTQIA+ residents for county boards and commissions • Investing in LGBTQIA+ educational resources

LAKE HOUSTON HUMBLE KINGWOOD EDITION

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FORD RD.

Transportation

OLD SORTERS RD.

BY HANNAH BROL

N O R T H P A R

Upcoming projects

Ongoing projects

Kingwood

SORTERS MCCLELLAN RD.

WOODLAND HILLS DR.

1 West Lake Houston Parkway Sidewalk, Phase 1B Project: Sidewalks will be constructed on both sides of West Lake Houston Parkway from Will Clayton Parkway to Aerobic Avenue. The project aims to enhance pedestrian mobility in the area. Update: This project is in the design phase, Jeannie Peng, communications manager for Harris County Precinct 3, confirmed in late November. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3 2 Will Clayton Parkway Sidewalk Project: Sidewalks will be constructed on Will Clayton Parkway from Tabor Brook Drive to Garbit Drive. The project aims to enhance pedestrian mobility in the area. Update: This project is in the design phase, Peng confirmed in late November. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3

GREENS RD. Project: Madera Run Parkway will be widened from two lanes to a four-lane concrete boulevard separated by a green median between Radura Road and Hickory Arroyo Drive. The project aims to improve safety and increase capacity for vehicular travel. Update: This project is under construction and nearing completion, Peng confirmed in late November. • Timeline: Estimated completion in the fourth quarter of 2024 • Cost: $1.2 million • Funding sources: Harris County Precinct 3, Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 504 ALDINE BENDER RD. TOWNSEN BLVD. Project: Sidewalks will be constructed on both sides of West Lake Houston Parkway from Madera Run Parkway to Will Clayton Parkway. The project aims to enhance pedestrian mobility in the area. Update: This project is under construction and nearing completion, Peng confirmed in late November. • Timeline: Estimated completion in the fourth quarter of 2024 • Cost: $1.1 million F I RST ST. 1960 3 West Lake Houston Parkway Sidewalk, Phase 1A • Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3 4 Madera Run Parkway expansion

UPPER LAKE DR.

LAKE HOUSTON PKWY.

Humble

LAKE HOUSTON

1960

TIMBER FOREST DR.

AEROBIC AVE.

TABOR BROOK DR.

WILL CLAYTON PKWY.

HICKORY ARROYO DR.

GARBIT DR.

RADURA RD.

MADERA RUN PKWY.

LAKE HOUSTON PKWY.

Atascocita

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

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Real estate

Residential market data

Number of homes sold

November 2023

November 2024

-26.67%

-43.75%

+37.5%

+30%

-11.84%

-33.33%

Nearly 70% of homes sold in November were in the $200,000-$399,999 price range.

77044

77338

77339

77345

77346

77396

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77339

77345

77346

Median home sales price

77338

LAKE HOUSTON

November

2023

2024

77386

$303,000 $273,500 $335,000 $337,650 $330,000 $250,000

$306,995 $248,450 $310,000 $493,500 $343,900 $272,000

77044

77338

77339

Homes sold by price point

77345

November 2024

77346

77396

$800,000+

$600,000-$799,999

Average days on market +48.78% +37.78%

$400,000-$599,999

-24.39%

+27.59%

+39.02%

+29.03%

139

$200,000-$399,999

<$199,999

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY DEBORAH ROSE REAL ESTATE GROUP, POWERED BY EXP 281-380-0332 • DEBORAHROSEREALTOR@GMAIL.COM CHAIR OF HUMBLE ISD EDUCATION FOUNDATION’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY • 2016-24 FIVE STAR PROFESSIONAL

77044

77338

77339

77345

77346

77396

12310 W. Lake Houston Pkwy. Houston, TX 77044 713.852.6700 TexasBayCU.org

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LAKE HOUSTON - HUMBLE - KINGWOOD EDITION

Real estate

Events

BY CARSON WEAVER

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Houston industries could see impact after interest rate cut it easier to purchase a car, easier to purchase a home,” Jankowski said. “On the business side, it Federal funds rate

December

January

Teen Wonderland Party The Atascocita Branch Library is holding a holiday party for teens featuring snowball fights, holiday goodies and an ugly sweater decorating station. • Dec. 19, 5-6:45 p.m. • Free (admission) • 19520 Pinehurst Trail Drive, Humble • www.hcpl.net

Partnership Lake Houston Chairman’s Ball This ball will honor outgoing Chairman Connie Chandler and incoming Chairman James Alexander. • Jan. 17, 6:30-11 p.m. • $200 • The Clubs of Kingwood, 1700 Lake Kingwood Trail, Kingwood • www.lakehouston.org Georgette Jones Country singer G eorgette Jones will take the stage at the Charles Bender Performing Arts Center. • Jan. 17, 7 p.m. • $30 (admission) • 611 Higgins St., Humble • www.charlesbendertheater.com 7th Annual Life After Talent Show Nonprofit Love Has No Disability Inc. is presenting a talent show at the Humble Civic Center. • Jan. 19, 3 p.m. • $65-$520 • 8223 Will Clayton Parkway, Humble • www.lovehasnodisability.com

On Sept. 18, the Federal Reserve cut its federal funds rate, the amount it charges banks, to 5% from 5.5%. On Nov. 7 it was lowered again to the 4.5% to 4.75% range. Experts said the interest rate cut could bring down mortgage rates in Houston, while making things such as cars and homes easier to purchase. The background The cut was larger than the National Associa- tion of Home Builders projected in August. “Recent indicators suggest that economic activ- ity has continued to expand at a solid pace,” reads a Sept. 18 statement from the Federal Reserve. The details The rate cut might be the best news for interest rate-sensitive industries like real estate, said Pat- rick Jankowski, senior vice president of research at the Greater Houston Partnership. “When they lower interest rates, it should make

makes it easier to expand your business.” However, Jankowski said the effects of the Federal Market Open Committee’s decision—the entity that sets a target range for the federal funds rate—might not be felt for three to six months. Diving in deeper Matthew Reibenstein, president of the Greater Houston Builders Association, said the cut reduces mortgage rates and the costs related to financing developments and home construction sites. Houston Association of Realtors Chair Thomas Mouton said there have been potential homebuy- ers who have opted to rent instead of purchasing. He said he hopes when those leases are up, they’ll look at getting back in the market. “They never were incentivized with the higher rates to go on and actually start looking or to upgrade their next home,” Mouton said.

The Federal Reserve cut its federal funds rate in September and again in November.

‘Mean Girls: The Musical’ Summer Creek Playhouse is presenting “Mean Girls: The Musical.” • Dec. 19, 6 p.m.; Dec. 20, 7 p.m. • $15 • 14000 Weckford Blvd., Houston • www.scplayhouse.org

Denim and Diamonds Casino Night This annual event supports the Riverwood Middle School Parent Teacher Association’s mission to enhance student education through enrichment programs. The event will feature dinner, a cash bar, music, dancing, live and silent auctions, a wine pull, a raffle and casino games. • Jan. 24, 6 p.m. • $85-$950 • The Clubs of Kingwood, 1700 Lake Kingwood Trail, Kingwood • www.riverwoodpta.membershiptoolkit.com

Noon Year’s Eve Party Kids can celebrate New Year’s Eve early at the Kingwood Branch Library with a photo booth, crafts and cider. • Dec. 31, 11:30 a.m. • Free (admission) • 4400 Bens View Lane, Kingwood • www.hcpl.net

2022

2023

2024

NOTE: THE DATES ARE BASED ON WHEN THE FEDERAL OPEN MARKET COMMITTEE MET.

SOURCE: FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM/COMMUNITY IMPACT

PORTER 23611 Hwy 59 (281) 354-0733 HUMBLE 19322 US-59 (281) 540-7202

KINGWOOD 1420 Kingwood Dr (281) 359-7115 ATASCOCITA 7034 FM 1960 E (281) 812-3100

Humble ISD formally terminates Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen From the cover

The overview

notice of a complaint filed with the Texas Health and Human Services Civil Rights Office alleging retaliation against a district employee for their participation in the Title IX investigation. Per Egbuna’s report, Fagen waited over a month to inform the board about the complaint despite being previously directed to forward all matters related to the Title IX complaint to the district’s legal team within 24 hours of receipt.

the TEA complaint had anything to do with Kite’s Title IX investigation. However, Egbuna said she didn’t find Fagen’s testimony credible. “Dr. Fagen’s misrepresentation to Ms. Parker was deliberate and against the best interests of the district,” Egbuna wrote in the Nov. 25 recommendation. Egbuna detailed an additional incident in which Fagen received

argued she was a nonfactor in the proceedings because she recused herself from all matters related to the Title IX complaint in May 2023. During the hearing, board President Chris Parker testified she believed Fagen acted inappropriately when she responded to a records request stemming from a TEA complaint that included a request for Kite’s employment records. Fagen testified she was unaware

Among the chief arguments presented by the district’s attorneys was the notion that Fagen’s relationship with her husband—former HISD Athletic Director Troy Kite—adversely affected the district’s ability to fairly respond to a Title IX complaint filed against Kite in 2023. The complaint alleged the common use of sexually explicit comments within the department. However, Fagen’s attorneys

Some context

March: Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen informs the board about her relationship with former Athletic Director Troy Kite.

August-November: An investigation into the Title IX complaint is conducted by The Ortiz Law Firm.

May 14: Trustees appoint Deputy Superintendent Roger Brown to serve as acting superintendent and place Fagen on paid leave.

Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and Nov. 6: Fagen’s appeal is conducted by Karen Egbuna, a TEA- appointed independent hearing examiner. Nov. 26: Trustees vote to formally terminate Fagen’s contract in accordance with Egbuna’s recommendation following the appeal.

Dec. 1: HISD officials post the position for superintendent of schools for prospective applicants. Dec. 16: Final day for Fagen to appeal the board’s decision directly to TEA Commissioner Mike Morath (after press time).

May: An athletic department staff

April 9: Trustees vote to release findings of Title IX investigation and accept Kite’s retirement

July 23: Trustees vote to propose the termination of Fagen’s contract

member files a Title IX complaint against Kite; Fagen recuses herself from the investigation.

2022

2023

2024

2025

SOURCES: HUMBLE ISD; TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY; O’HANLON, DEMERATH & CASTILLO/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

The impact

in her report, noting a potential conflict of interest because any employee tasked with investigating the matter still fell under Fagen’s supervision. In her report, Egbuna ultimately determined Fagen had lost the trust of a majority of the board, which she said constituted a good cause for her termination. “Fagen’s conduct has destroyed the trust the board of trustees had for her as Superintendent,” Egbuna said in the report.

from all matters related to the inves- tigation. Fagen also testified she believed Terry Perkins, the district’s in-house Title IX coordinator, would have been able to complete the investigation without bias. However, Parker disagreed, testifying she believed Perkins’ longstanding personal relationship with Kite would have prevented him from fairly investigating the com- plaint. Fagen countered, testifying Perkins and Kite never formed a relationship outside of work. Egbuna sided with the district

The district’s legal team also argued Fagen’s relationship with Kite led to at least $1.3 mil- lion in legal fees related to the investigation. During the hearing, multiple trustees testified Fagen’s relation- ship with Kite necessitated the hiring of an outside law firm to investigate the Title IX complaint to avoid the appearance of any real or perceived conflicts of interest. Fagen testified she had nothing to do with the decision to acquire outside counsel because she recused herself

Continued compensation Former HISD Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen: Received a $349,000 annual salary for the 2024-25 school year Received a $42,000 living stipend for the 2024-25 school year Was paid while placed on administrative leave for 6 months

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY WESLEY GARDNER

What they’re saying

“I thought this was going to be an opportunity for justice or a day in court, ... and it wasn’t. That’s not how it turned out, so now we’re moving on to the next level of appeal.” ELIZABETH FAGEN, FORMER HUMBLE ISD SUPERINTENDENT “If the STAAR scores were down, we would have put Dr. Fagen on an improvement plan or make that a priority, but there is no improvement plan for ethics and a lack of candor.” CHRIS PARKER, HUMBLE ISD BOARD PRESIDENT

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well as any procedural issues that may have occurred. Holmes said the commissioner will issue a ruling within 30 days of receiving Fagen’s appeal.

TEA Media Relations Specialist Melissa Holmes said Fagen’s appeal to the commissioner will entail a review of the evidence presented at the initial hearing as

2021 Northpark Drive Kingwood, TX 77339 www.greatamericancookies.com

Appeal process

Educators who receive notice of the proposed termination of their contracts can appeal the decision to the TEA.

Step 1: Request an independent hearing examiner to review the case

Step 2: Appeal examiner’s decision to TEA commissioner

Step 3: File for a rehearing

Step 4: Appeal to a district court within 30 days of decision

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Stay tuned

included on the board’s Dec. 10 meeting agenda. Parker noted community input would be taken into consideration throughout the search process. HISD officials said the superintendent position was posted both externally and internally on Dec. 1, noting the names of any finalists will be posted at least 21 days in advance of any potential board action.

After the vote to terminate Fagen’s contract, board members approved the appointment of Deputy Superintendent Roger Brown to serve as interim superintendent while the district conducts a search for Fagen’s replacement. While trustee Martina Lemond Dixon proposed hiring a firm to assist with the superintendent search, the item did not gain the votes necessary to be

LAKE HOUSTON - HUMBLE - KINGWOOD EDITION

Community Senior Living Guide

BY HANNAH BROL

2024

The Bradford Grove Cottage Type: memory care Opened: 2023 Cost: varies according to resident need Total units: 16 Amenities: private rooms, beautiful walking paths, secured units

Kingwood

Types of communities

Novellus Kingwood Type: assisted living, memory care Opened: 1996 (acquired by Novellus Living in 2022) Cost: $3,695-$4,900 per month Total units: 77 Amenities: chef-prepared meals, six to eight hours of activities daily, transportation to doctor visits, personalized care in a maintenance-free private living space

Independent-living communities cater to older adults with limited care needs. Most include amenities, such as fitness programs, housekeeping and communal meals. Assisted-living communities specialize in providing care and supervision. These facilities frequently offer a full range of amenities as well as limited medical assistance. Memory care facilities specialize in providing care to seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other cognitive issues. Staff members are trained to help residents manage these diseases. Hospice care is intended to relieve symptoms and suffering associated with a terminal illness in those who have been given six months or less to live. The patient must choose to forgo further curative treatment. Nursing home/skilled nursing facilities provide care to those with illnesses or mental conditions requiring full- time monitoring and medical care.

• 5500 Atascocita Road, Humble • www.thebradfordgrove.com

Crimson Heights Health & Wellness Type: nursing home/skilled nursing Opened: 2019 Cost: varies based on income and Medicaid/insurance Total units: 118 Amenities: spacious, private rooms each with an individual shower/bathroom; 24-hour visitation

• 2401 Green Oak Drive, Kingwood • www.novellusliving.com/kingwood

The Terraces at Kingwood Town Center Type: independent living Opened: 2000 (remodeled in 2018) Cost: $1,696-$3,295 per month Total units: 127 Amenities: indoor heated pool, indoor gym, salon, community store

• 19279 McKay Drive, Humble • www.crimsonheights.com

The Fordham at Eagle Springs Type: independent living Opened: 2021 Cost: $1,049 per month Total units: 137 Amenities: pool, theater, fitness center, dog park • 18021 Eagle Springs Parkway, Humble • www.fordhamateaglesprings.com Park Manor at Humble Type: skilled nursing Opened: 2003 Cost: $5,310 per month (semiprivate room) Total units: 125 Amenities: short- and long-term care, private and semiprivate rooms, rehabilitation gym, activities, fine dining services, daily housekeeping

• 2807 Kings Crossing Drive, Kingwood • www.theterracesatkingwood.com

Humble

Watercrest at Kingwood Type: independent living Opened: 2014 Cost: $1,999-$3,999 per month Total units: 174 Amenities: pool, transportation, activities, dining, fitness center • 24109 Kingwood Place Drive, Kingwood • www.watercrestkingwood.com This list is not comprehensive.

Avalon Memory Care Type: memory care Opened: 2018

Cost: $5,725 per month (private), $4,500 per month (shared), $2,000 (one-time community fee), $300 (incontinence fee) Total units: 22 Amenities: pet therapy, a beauty salon, a courtyard, weekly activities • 18111 Timber Forest Drive, Humble • www.avalonmemorycare.com

• 19424 McKay Drive, Humble • www.parkmanor-humble.com

Start the New Year by joining Meal Plans | Workouts | Events | Meditations

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY WESLEY GARDNER

New senior activity center allows for expanded opportunities a variety of additional programming options with the added space, including music classes, knitting

Seniors in Humble now have expanded opportu- nities to engage in events and activities following the Oct. 28 opening of the city’s new senior

and crocheting classes, bingo and bowling. In addition to access to exercise equipment, Guevara said the new activity center oers area seniors with a number of health and exercise classes, including kickboxing, chair yoga, line dancing, Tai Chi and seasonal swimming. Guevara noted some health classes will be oered at dierent points throughout the year, including an upcoming partnership with Harris County Public Health that will provide classes on diabetes and diabetes prevention set to begin in 2025. What’s next Moving forward, Guevara said she’s looking forward to expanding the new community center’s programming and oerings while focusing on pro- viding healthy and fun options for Humble seniors.

activity center. The overview Ocials said the roughly $2 million,

10,000-square-foot facility features a number of multi-use spaces to accommodate both existing and new programs, a new pickleball court, and access to exercise classes and equipment. “It’s very exciting,” Center Coordinator Mari Guevara said. “We’re able to oer [area seniors] a lot more variety than what we already had in place.” A closer look The new activity center is coming after Humble City Council members voted to demolish the city’s old senior activity center in September 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Guevara noted the new facility is able to house

The new Humble Senior Activity Center oers a variety of activities, including chair yoga.

W G/C I

W I L L C L A YT O N PK WY .

1401 S. Houston Ave., Humble www.humbleseniorcenter.com

PRIMARY CARE QUALITY CARE FOR EVERY STAGE OF LIFE

LAKE HOUSTON HUMBLE KINGWOOD EDITION

Business

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

The boutique oers gift items, such as candles and hats.

XLabel oers everything from statement pieces to work attire.

PHOTOS BY JOVANNA AGUILARCOMMUNITY IMPACT

XLabel empowers women through fashion

she was always really into fashion,” Lowe said. XLabel started with the goal of oering quality and aordable, modern workwear for women ages 25-55, Lowe said. The boutique has since expanded to oer a variety of pieces for dierent occasions with sizes ranging from XS to 3X. What they oer XLabel oers clothing and accessories from a variety of local vendors as well as designers researched and sourced by Lowe. At XLabel, customers can expect an empow- ering shopping experience with chic, unique and glam pieces ideal for any occasion or just retail therapy, Lowe said. The shop oers everything from statement pieces to game day attire.

XLabel founder Lindsey Lowe left her rst corporate job after seven years to open her own clothing boutique—a lifelong dream she said she was inspired to fulll after COVID-19. “My whole goal and purpose is to make women feel beautiful,” Lowe said. “I want them to ... have an amazing experience and leave here feeling happier than when [they] got here.” The backstory Lowe’s boutique started as an online side hustle in 2017 before expanding in 2020 to a brick-and- mortar storefront in Kingwood. However, Lowe said her interest in fashion began as a child and was inuenced by her mother. “If you met my mom, you would understand ...

Astros fans can nd apparel and accessories at XLabel.

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LAKE HOUSTON

4501 Magnolia Cove Drive, Ste. 108, Kingwood www.shopxlabel.com

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Nonpro t

BY EMILY LINCKE

Founded in 1987, the Humble Atascocita Baseball Association has about 800900 players.

COURTESY HUMBLE ATASCOCITA BASEBALL ASSOCIATION

The Humble Atascocita Baseball Association, a nonprot that allows children ages 416 to play baseball, oers a fall and spring playing season each year.

COURTESY HUMBLE ATASCOCITA BASEBALL ASSOCIATION

HABA invites children of all skill levels to play baseball Dozens of volunteers work year-round to run the Humble Atascocita Baseball Association, a non- prot that allows children ages 4-16 to play baseball with low fees, President Mike Hildebrand said. About the program Founded in 1987, the organization has about enrollment costs down for all HABA players, Hildebrand said.

From left, the nonprot is led by President Mike Hildebrand and Vice President Mike Wilson.

EMILY LINCKECOMMUNITY IMPACT

Additionally, HABA created the Austin Rieniets Memorial League in 2006 to give individuals age 5 and older with physical or intellectual disabilities the opportunity to play baseball. Get involved To continue serving the community, HABA lead- ers said they hope to continue to spread awareness about their organization. “We’re just trying to reach out to as many people to let them know that we’re here as possible, to give as many kids as we can an opportunity to come out here and just have fun, to get o video games and get outside and get some exercise,” Wilson said.

I L

800-900 players split amongst 60 coed teams and hosts a fall and spring playing season each year, Hildebrand said. Hildebrand and Vice President Mike Wilson both played baseball growing up and then watched their children play baseball at HABA. What’s special about it? Organization leaders work hard to keep

Lindsay/Lyons Park and Sports Complex, 2310 Atascocita Road, Humble www.humblebaseball.com

LAKE HOUSTON HUMBLE KINGWOOD EDITION

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