Blog entries

An Extreme Home Makeover Texas Style

Ken Hooper — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:40:25 +0100

Ty Pennington and his crew don't hold a candle to the spirit of Texas. Local businesses and organizations in the Conroe area recently came together to help a family in need as part of the United Way’s Days of Caring initiative.

Every day Texans came together to help a local resident, Angela Bundage who is raising her four nieces as her own. Her story is similar to those seen on Extreme Makeover Home Edition, however there were no camera crews, television hosts, or advertising dollars to get the job done; simply good neighbors embodying the spirit of Texas.

The family received new flooring, new beds, and electrical services. That was just to start. Neighbors volunteered their time and money to help get this family on their feet and in headed in the right direction.

To participate in Days of Caring visit the United Way’s homepage or contact Summer Darnell at (936) 760-4179 extension 245.

D.R. Horton's Look... Love it... Live in it Event!

Cheryl Boe — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:47:06 +0100

February 1st-19th buy a Home from D.R. Horton in any Houston community and receive loads of valuable extras! Including a Free Sprinkler System, Four Free Ceiling Fans, and Free 2" Faux Blinds!!! Stop by any D.R. Horton Model Home to Feel the Love!

D.R. Horton Super Saturday Sale

Cheryl Boe — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:06:46 +0100

Purchase a new D.R. Horton home in any of their Houston Communities on February 4th or 5th and you will receive $4,500 in upgrades!

Join Texas Wildlife and Rehabilitate Animals

Ken Hooper — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:46:52 +0100

According to their website, Friends of Texas Wildlife is a group of trained and permitted volunteers who provide care for injured, displaced and orphaned wildlife in Montgomery and North Harris Counties. We support the rehabilitation of native Texas wildlife and promote co-existence of wildlife and people through education.

They are a non-profit organization that is able to save Texas wildlife through individual donations of time as well as financially. They are always accepting volunteers, however on Saturday January 28th they will offer an informational class on becoming a wildlife rehabilitator at 1pm.

Attendees will be given information on volunteering and those who chose to become animal rehabilitators will be paired with a mentor as they go through this specialized training.

The meeting will be held at the Friends of Texas Wildlife building, 29615 Highland Blvd. Everyone who loves animals is invited to attend! For more information and informational meeting times, please visit the Friends of Texas Wildlife homepage.

South Montgomery Library Hosts Green Farming Lecture

Ken Hooper — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 02:36:54 +0100

The South Montgomery County Library, 2101 Lake Robbins Drive hosted a lecture on green farming. Hans Hansen of Twin Persimmons Farm spoke about community supported agriculture, how it work, and how to get involved.

Hansen discussed Community Supported Agriculture as becoming a preferred method for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. These are the basics: a farmer offers a certain number of "shares" to the public. Typically the share consists of a box of vegetables, but other farm products may be included. Interested consumers purchase a share and in return receive a box of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season, providing a win-win for farm and consumer.

According to their website, “Twin Persimmons Farm is three acres within 167 that are currently designated for vegetable production. The site is managed sustainably, informed by multiple disciplines and perspectives including permaculture, biodynamics, agricultural research and integral sustainability.” Twin Persimmons Farm grows produce for Houston, Bryan-College Station and associated communities.

To learn more about Twin Persimmons Farm and Community Supported Agriculture visit the farm’s homepage.

Montgomery County United Way chosen to participate in World Wide Healthcare Mobilization Unit

Ken Hooper — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 01:28:33 +0100

The Montgomery County United Way is one of twelve United Way organizations that have chosen to participate in the United Way World Wide Healthcare Mobilization Unit.

According to the press release, MCUW President Julie Martineau said “This unique opportunity to dive into research, root causes and potential solutions for health issues that affect our own county is a great honor.”

The United Way World Wide Healthcare Mobilization unit, The Prevention Institute, the University of Wisconsin Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation are making an effort to help the community create a commitment to mobilize toward learning and creating community-wide health goals, help understand the community’s health landscape and learn the underlying factors that affect health in Montgomery County.

The mobilization team for MCUW includes Martineau, board member Bob Evans, Associate Director of Fund Development Jennifer Burkett, Director of Community Impact Vicky Shelledy and Director of Marketing Carla Clark.

The Montgomery County United Way is located at 1600 Lake Front Circle, Suite 248.

Cruise from Conroe to the Houston Boat Show

Ken Hooper — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 21:41:34 +0100

The 56th annual Houston Boat Show, the largest in the southwest will be held January 6th through the 15th at Reliant Stadium. The original Houston Boat Show was held at the Sam Houston Coliseum in 1956. Today it has grown into Reliant Center with over 75,000 attendees last year.

The show offers tons of featured events including The Swamp People’s Junior and Willie Edwards, antique and classic boat displays, a giant 5,000-gallon Bass Tub aquarium, bubble runners, boat building for kids, comic bots, and fish-o-rama.

The Texas Department of Public Safety will unveil their newest patrol vessels. The patrol vessels will be named for DPS officers killed in the line of duty in each of the state’s six regions and will begin Patrolling the Rio Grande River, international lakes and Intracoastal Waterway next year.

For more information and tickets visit the Houston Boat Show’s homepage or call (713) 526-6361.

The 'Happy Feet' Performers Visit Local Senior Center

Ken Hooper — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 03:01:26 +0100

The ‘Happy Feet’ Performers of The John Cooper School brought holiday cheer to four senior citizen centers. The entertainers sang and danced at each residence center through out the month of December.

These entertainers are part of the performing arts program at their school. The performances lifted the spirits of the senior citizens at Regent Care Center of The Woodlands, Terrance Assisted Living and Memory Care, The Woodlands Healthcare Center and Silverado Senior Living. Not only did these students perform, they took time to visit with the residences of the senior centers. They passed out cards, gifts, and blankets to the residence as well. The school encourages their students to think creatively, prepare for a lifetime of learning, and cultivate responsible citizenship.

For more information on The John Cooper School, which has a one hundred percent college matriculation rate, visit their homepage.

Tis’ the Season of Giving: John Cooper Students Donate to The Salvation Army's Giving Tree

Ken Hooper — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 02:57:46 +0100

The Salvation Army’s Giving Tree is a nation wide program that provides Christmas dinner, clothing, and toys for disadvantaged families. Financial assistance aids with basic necessities, along with seasonal needs. The student council in the John Cooper Lower School spear headed the project for the Montgomery County Salvation Army’s Giving Tree.

The students collected gifts and donations for children, teens, and senior citizens in need. They also helped load the gifts onto the Salvation Army truck. The gifts will be distributed by volunteers at shelters and nursing homes. “ The Salvation Army endeavors to bring spiritual light and love to those it serves at Christmas so that the real meaning of the season is not forgotten”.

It’s never to late to give, visit the Salvation Army’s Homepage to learn more or to donate.

Good Souls Benefit Drive Hosted by The John Cooper School

Ken Hooper — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 02:24:50 +0100

The John Cooper School let’s the students pick a charity for each month of the year. This month two of the school’s outstanding students volunteered to organize this month’s charity project, "Good Soles Shoe and Sock Donation Drive".

The students, Iker and Pamela Pimienta partnered with local podiatrist Dr. Robert E Neville & Associates. This “Good Souls” benefit drive will collect socks and shoes for needing families. The benefit drive in years past, have collected over 700 pairs of shoes and socks. The students will work with Dr. Neville to collect donations through January 31st.

Charities that have benefited from the drive in the past include United Way of Greater Houston, Montgomery County Women’s Center, the Knights of Columbus, Moms Helping Moms and Project Hope.

There are over 50 drop off sites in the local area including The John Cooper School and the offices of Dr. Robert E. Neville & Associates.

To find a drop-off location nearest you and to learn more, call (281) 681-FEET (3338).

Donate to The "Share Your Holidays" Food Drive at Montgomery County Food Bank

Ken Hooper — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 22:23:10 +0100

Donate to this year’s “Share Your Holidays” food drive at the Montgomery County Courthouse. The food drive will benefit over 31,000 requests for food during the month of December.

The drop of sites will be held on Friday December 9th, however donations maybe made at anytime at the Montgomery County Food Bank. Donations can be dropped off from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Brookshire Brothers, 18535 FM 1488 in Magnolia; from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Kroger in Willis, I-45 and FM 1097; and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Montgomery County Courthouse, 1301 N. Thompson in Conroe. There will be volunteers at each site so donors can “drop and drive”.

Local school children will sing holiday selections at the Courthouse from 9am until 2pm. Donations can be made year round at the Montgomery County Food Bank warehouse, 111 South 2nd Street from 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday. Monetary donations can be made online.

St. Luke’s Episcopal Health System is Fortune Magazine’s Top 100 Companies to Work For®

Scott Tran — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 02:59:58 +0100

St Luke’s Hospital, 17200 St. Luke’s Way is one of Fortune Magazine’s Top 100 Companies to Work For ®. This means St. Luke’s is a dream place to work! To make the Fortune Magazine list companies must offer “Fat paychecks, sweet perks, fun colleagues, and jobs ready to be filled.”

According to the St. Luke’s website, “All of our hospitals are an integral part of the Health System and contribute to enhancing community health by delivering superior value in high-quality, cost-effective acute care. In partnership with our medical staff, we are dedicated to excellence and compassion in caring for the whole person- mind, body, and spirit.”

They are also committed to developing and growing their employees in order to secure the health of Texas. To learn more visit their homepage.

Keep Holiday Stress at Bay with These Simple Tips

Scott Tran — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 03:00:07 +0100

Keep your blood pressure low and your bank account high with these simple tips this holiday season. “Fun and recreational activities often are the first things to go when budgets get trimmed. If people turn to smoking, overeating, or excess drinking to cope with stress, they compound the physical damage”, says Redford Williams, M.D., director of Duke University's Behavioral Medicine Research Center in Durham, North Carolina.

Keeping a journal and writing for ten to fifteen minutes each day can help ease the stress on sharpen the mind. A short term focused activity can raise immunity and improve functioning according to University of Texas psychologist James W. Pennebaker, PhD.

Medical researchers have discovered that listening to soft music with approximately 60 beats per minute, the same as a resting heart rate can reduce anxiety.

Take a brisk walk around the neighborhood, park, or even a shopping mall for at least twenty minutes. Exercise benefits a person's mind body and soul.

Simply take a few deep breaths. It can lower heart rate and eliminate any perceived stress.

Volunteer! Sharonne Hayes, M.D., a Mayo Clinic cardiologist says, "There's nothing better than the satisfaction from helping someone else."

For more tips on healthy living visit the Better Homes and Garden homepage.

Jeans and Jewels Gala Raises over $500K in Donations

Scott Tran — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 03:31:54 +0100

The annual Jeans and Jewels Gala, held October 22 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott was a huge success with over 500 guests in attendance. The event, hosted by Art Rascon from KTRT Channel 13, raised nearly $550,000 to benefit the Northwest Assistance Ministries.

This years gala broke the record of donations given to the Northwest Assistance Ministries. The ministries children’s clinic received a much needed $81,000 because of the live auction. Nolan Lehmann was this year’s auctioneer. Attendees were delighted by music performed by The Green Onions, performances from resident artists from the Fred Astaire Dance Studio, and a silent auction.

Remember, 90 cents of every dollar goes directly to aiding their clients. Donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. The Northwest Assistance Center helps your neighbors in needs. To learn more about this effective, extensive charity visit their homepage.

D.R. Horton Quick Move-In Home Sale

Cheryl Boe — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 01:10:50 +0100

D.R. Horton is holding their 2011 Holiday Quick Move-In Home Sale until November 20th. Visit their model home open daily in Graystone Hills for more information.

Conroe's First NFL Punt, Pass and Kick Program at Carl Barton Jr. Park

Scott Tran — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 01:29:17 +0100

The sounds of happy children could be heard clearly as footballs flew back and forth across Carl Barton Jr. Park. “This event marks the first local competition for five age groups with two ages each for ranges 6-15 for girls and boys”, said Javier Pena, event coordinator with the City of Conroe Parks and Recreation Department. “Lots of kids of all ages participate. Some are involved in sports and some aren’t,” he said. “They all come out and try it. It’s a lot of fun.”

The children are evaluated on three areas of football- punting, passing, and kicking. The winners move on sectionals at Conroe High School and then get to attend the championship held during a Houston Texans game. The national winners will get to show off their skills at the Super Bowl.

“It’s just another opportunity for kids to get involved in sports and it’s a good way for the NFL to reach out to the community,” Pena said.

Students from The Cooper School Perform Beauty and the Beast

Scott Tran — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 04:22:49 +0100

High school students from The John Cooper School of Performing Arts will present "Beauty and the Beast" November 17 through 20 at the school's Performing Arts Center, 1 John Cooper Drive in the Woodlands. Performances commence at 7 pm November 17 through 19. Matinees will be held at 2 pm on November 19 and 20.

Directed by Joseph DeMonico, the show features Caitlin Finnie as Belle, Jesse Bates as the Beast and Alessandro Portela as the villain Gaston. Other favorite characters from the classic love story include Lumiere (played by Derek Tam), Mrs. Potts (played by Caroline Davis) and Cogsworth (Jeremy Mani). Tickets cost $15 ($10 for seniors and students) and can be purchased online at the school’s website.

Village Builders Homes for your Holidays

Cheryl Boe — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 19:14:54 +0100

Village Builders is offering special "seasonal savings" - ask a new home consultant today!

Conroe Aquatic Center Offers Swim Programs

Scott Tran — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 23:34:15 +0100

The Conroe Aquatic center is offering many fun and exciting activities for people of all ages. From learning how to swim to lifeguard training, the Center has programs at every level.

Children's Programs

Learn to Swim

Stroke Improvement, Learn to Dive

Youth Snorkeling

Tiger Shark Swim Team

Adult Programs

Adult Water Exercise Classes Schedule

FREE! Water Exercise Sampler

Adult Swim Improvement

Conroe Masters - United States Masters Swimming

American Red Cross Training

American Red Cross Leadership Classes

Lifeguard Training

Water Safety Instructor Training

The Conroe Aquatic Center includes 3 pools and operates two year-round enclosed, heated facilities. One 25-meter pool is used primarily for educational programs, fitness programs, lap swimming, and recreational swimming. The Aquatic Center also offers a zero-depth, seasonal leisure pool highlighting a graduated beach entry, an interactive play structure with water blasters, mini slides, a water curtain, and giant tipping bucket spilling 400 gallons of water periodically.

For more information on programs above please visit the City of Conroe Parks and Recreation section of the website.

DR Horton Extends Screamin' Home Sale

Cheryl Boe — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 02:27:18 +0100

DR Horton has extended their Screamin' Home Sale. Buy a new DR Horton Home by October 31, 2011 and receive tons of free options. For details, visit screaminhomesale.com.