Conroe, TX July 2024

Exploring Near and Far

WELLNESS

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS

DISCOVER

BEAUTY

Explore Everything

Happy 4th of July!

Are you done cooking yet? No, I don't mean the burgers and hot dogs on the grill. I'm talking, have you already had enough of our summer heat? When you are, you should check out our article about exploring the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. It is a great place to explore when you need to cool down and take in nature on a grand scale.

You don't have to fly over Canada to discover how to broaden your horizons, though. We also have an article chock full of ideas for what you can do right here at home that are beyond the ordinary. Stay at home and try your hand at growing herbs or beekeeping. And if you want to look good doing it, we also have stories on the latest new looks, from hairstyles to automobiles.

It's summertime, so let's get out there and explore our world both near and far. Well, you can finish reading the magazine first while you cool off.

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Alison Kartevold | Alison.Kartevold@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Margie Taylor | margie.taylor@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alison Kartevold, Travis Hager, Melanie Saxton, Peyton Mackenzie

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Shannon Matlock, Arrowhead Photo

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

CLASSIC FLOORS & MORE

Family-Owned & Operated Since 2002

Let us help with your Flooring ∙ Cabinets ∙ Countertops Stairs Rails More

Call for an appointment (832) 250-2736 | Info@classicfloorstx.com B ClassicFloorsTX

city scene

the BAT Music

or the crowds. 5: You could find more than music at Big As Texas Festival.

was just one fan who got shrunk. 7: Conroe City Lifestyle was honored to share the stage with Big As Texas artists.

8: Women of Distinction honoree Janice Thigpen of Love Heals Youth 9: Reflective Media Productions Masquerade Gala, a faith-based organization focused on creating media resources for hope. 10: BodyBar Pilates Woodforest enjoys the outdoors with Pilates in the Park. 11: Gigi and Brittany from Conroe’s Chamber hanging with Texan’s mascot, Toro, in the Woodland Hills. 12: 1st Place for Children’s Safe Harbor Sporting Clay Tournament was the Judge Keough Team! 13: The 2024 graduating class of Leadership Montgomery County. 14: Shelter for Shelter” raised over $58,000 to benefit YES to YOUTH Montgomery County Youth Services.

Honorees Selected for Yes to Youth Pop Art Gala

YES to YOUTH  announced its individual honorees for its Gala, to be held on Saturday, August 10. They are proud to announce that Dr. Hilton and Alison Yee have been chosen as the honorees. Both Dr. Hilton and Alison Yee have a long history with YES to YOUTH, dating back 20 years when they began supporting Ladies Night Out as sponsors. YES to YOUTH is a community-based nonprofit serving Montgomery County youth and families.

The Montgomery County Choral Society Names New Director

Jim Kritikos was named the Artist Director of the Montgomery County Choral Society in Conroe. Kritikos also serves as the director of worship at Wildwood United Methodist Church in Magnolia. The nonprofit organization was formed in 1972 with approximately 60 members who rehearse every Monday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at First Methodist Conroe, 4308 W. Davis St, Conroe.

E. Free’s On Main Opens Doors

Lifelong tea drinker Erika Prothow opened E.Free’s on Main tea shop earlier this year. The shop offers custom blended teas, teaware, shirts, candles, tea-inspired gifts, and her own loose-leaf brand, Teavotion teas. It is located at 227 N. Main Street in downtown Conroe. The name refers to a nickname involving her maiden name, Erika Freeman.

better with every bite

Mom always said not to judge a book by its cover, but this may be an exception. Our brand-new menu items look like works of art in seafood form but, here’s the thing, they taste even better.

Make a reservation at GOODECOMPANYFISHCAMP.COM to taste for yourself and follow us @GOODECOFISHCAMP.

8865 SIX PINES DRIVE THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS

EXPLORING

IN STYLE Conroe

2024 LEXUS LC CONVERTIBLE, MODERN GRAND TOURING AT ITS BEST

As a self-proclaimed automotive enthusiast, I find truly compelling vehicles that stir deep emotional chords within me to be remarkably rare. While the market brims with offerings boasting attributes I admire, few manage to coalesce their talents into a singularly captivating whole - a product that transcends the sum of its parts.

This month, however, I encountered a machine that shattered my cynical indifference: the 2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible. An oft-overlooked gem, this artfully crafted grand tourer is forged from the foundry of passion. This Lexus is a defiantly soulful counterpoint in an increasingly soulless industry, a reminder that dreams of the automotive industry are still breathed into existence. While it wasn’t my initial intention to view it in this fashion, I’ve discovered a manufacturer’s love letter to the automotive world.

From the very first glimpse of the 2024 Lexus LC Convertible’s sumptuous sheet metal, it's abundantly clear this grand touring masterpiece was penned with an utterly singular objective - to immediately command the undivided attention of anyone fortunate enough to lay eyes upon its curvaceous form.

Mirroring the Lexus LC's show-stopping exterior design, the cabin interior is an opulent, hand-crafted cocoon of indulgent luxury befitting the grandest of GTs. Like several others in this segment (Bentley & Aston Martin) throughout automotive history, Lexus has ensconced its flagship's occupants in decadent surroundings, exhibiting an exacting devotion to material richness and human artisanal craftsmanship.

While its gorgeous styling and opulent cabin deservedly steal the spotlight, the Lexus LC's true essence reveals itself once you press the magic Start/Stop button. With the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 churning out 471 velvety horses. Power is exclusive to the rear wheels via a glass-smooth 10-speed transmission.

“I’ve discovered a manufacturer’s love letter to the automotive world.”

The 2024 Lexus LC Convertible represents the pinnacle of the modern grand touring experience. A near-perfect feat that any vehicle manufacturer rarely achieves. Its breathtaking design, exquisite craftsmanship, powerful naturally-aspirated V8, and brilliant chassis tuning meld together in an undeniable masterpiece.

EXPLORE ALASKA'S KENAI PENINSULA

Where the Reds Run

ARTICLE BY ALISON KARTEVOLD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CL AND PROVIDED

“We want our visitors to go home with memories of incredible wildlife encounters.”

Next time the summer heat of Texas finds you sweltering in a hot car in Houston traffic, close your eyes and imagine stepping into a glacier-fed river. Waves lap against your waders as you carefully search for footholds amongst the smoothly worn river rocks while the gentle current beckons you deeper. The relief of your cold plunge is immediate, and you feel completely invigorated.

Now, open your eyes and find yourself transported to the banks of the Kenai River on the peninsula of the same name in the middle of Alaska's playground. You hold a fishing rod, and your family surrounds you. You peer beneath the surface of the milky turquoise water to see shadows of salmon gliding by below. The Reds are running. In the distance are the snow-capped peaks from which these waters sprang, and there are more evergreen trees than in the Sam Houston National Forest.

Beauty and mild temperatures abound. After fishing, maybe you'll go hiking or rafting, ever watchful for moose or bear. Then again, the ocean is within a day's drive, where in Seward, you can find whale-watching tours amongst the icebergs or halibut fishing and souvenir shopping out of Homer. The possibilities and daylight are endless.

Yes, we Texans pride ourselves on the size of our state, but let me assure you, Alaska is on a whole different scale. You can fit Texas into Alaska not once but twice. It is a wonderful place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with family and friends. My family has a fish camp on the Kenai River in Soldotna, yet I still have not seen all the Kenai Peninsula has to offer. So, if you want to visit, and you should, let me suggest you take some expert advice to help you make the most of your time there.

Alaska Wildland Adventures operates three lodges in the area and recommends that travelers give themselves at least a week to enjoy a well-rounded selection of the favorite sights and activities on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula.

"We've created shorter, seamless programs that provide an excellent taste of the Kenai in just five vacation days." During a recent conversation, Amy LaHaie, General Manager of Administration and Programming, said, "Most visitors wish to participate in at least one day of water-based activity, be it a guided rafting or fishing trip. Many guests also want to include an Alaska seacoast experience to see glaciers, whales, and other marine wildlife for at least one day, and we're able to accommodate that on most of our trips and lodge stays."

You can get direct flights from Houston to Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage, AK (airport code: ANC), but if you don't have family to pick you up, I'd recommend letting someone else take over from there. Rental cars are tough to come by in the 49th state.

"Our Lodge-to-Lodge Vacation packages allow travelers the flexibility to choose their desired travel length and top-choice activities (such as guided fishing, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and more), and our team of expert planners will arrange all the logistics, such as the ground transportation in between locations, all meals, accommodations, baggage handling and beyond," said LaHaie.

Alaska Wildland Adventures has three lodges on the peninsula from which you can mix and match itineraries. Their Kenai Riverside Lodge is an idyllic location to base fishing, rafting, and hiking adventures. The Kenai Backcountry Lodge is a raft-in-only property on Skilak Lake, deep inside the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. It utilizes hydro and solar power to provide creature comforts while in the heart of the wilderness. And their seacoast property, Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge, is the only lodge within the 700,000-acre Kenai Fjords National Park. It offers travelers the fantastic opportunity to whale watch and get up close to tidal glaciers aboard customized touring vessels.

Spend at least one day of water-based activity in a guided rafting or fishing trip.

We do our best to empower our travelers to choose their own daily adventure. “ ”

All three Alaska Wildland Adventures properties offer private guest cabins. Depending on the location, guests can enjoy riverside, forest, lakeside, or lagoon views. Their approach is small group, big experience travel.

"High-quality experiences are our forte, but we want our visitors to go home with memories of incredible wildlife encounters and nature treks rather than remarking on the thread count of our linens." LaHaie says, "Guest cabins are well-appointed throughout our grounds – each featuring at least two beds, en suite bathroom/shower, and private entrance and porch – and guests convene in the main lodge for gourmet-inspired meals and to share stories of the day's adventures."

Our family gatherings at Poacher's Cover, where there are lots of campfires but no spa days, usually take place in late July to coincide with the main sockeye (or red) salmon run. However, the tourist season really runs from mid-June through early August. During this time, there are always fish to catch and sights to see, with nature always sitting center stage.

For anglers hoping to catch Alaskan salmon, there are two runs of sockeye salmon on the Kenai River, usually occurring in mid-June and then again in mid-July through early August. August is a prime month for fishermen targeting the hard-fighting silver salmon. In addition to their Kenai River fishing trips, Alaskan Wildland

Adventures can coordinate custom fishing packages that include angling adventures in Resurrection Bay, near Seward, for king salmon and halibut, depending on the season.

The Kenai Peninsula is rich in diverse wildlife. In addition to fish, moose, black bears, and occasionally brown bears can be seen. The first time I took my daughters to Alaska, we saw a mother grizzly with three young cubs while driving from Anchorage to Soldotna. On a deep bend in the river that runs next to the road, the mama bear's little ones frolicked on the remains of a large down that had washed into the water. As we watched from a safe distance on the river's opposite bank, the playfulness of the cubs was quite the juxtaposition of their mother's lumbering power.

Along with a diverse number of birds, owls, and ducks, the Alaska Wildland’s Kenai Backcountry Lodge on Skilak Lake is home to all five species of loons. Travelers who visit our Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge can expect to see humpback or orca whales, Dall's porpoise, Steller sea lions, sea otters, puffins, and other coastal birds. Though no one can guarantee seeing wildlife on trips, LaHaie says they put guests in the best possible locations to witness wildlife in their natural environment – and from a safe and respectful distance.

"Whether our guests are on an all-inclusive tour with us or staying as a more independent lodge guest, we do our best to empower our travelers to choose their own adventure each day," says LaHaie. "At the end of active days in nature, our guests can enjoy wood-fired saunas, beachfront bonfires, or rocking chairs looking over a serene lagoon. When paired with a locally sourced craft beer or fine glass of wine from our lodge lounges, there are ample opportunities to relax, even in the wilds of Alaska."

And it offers a welcome break from the intense summer heat of Texas.

Alaska Wildland Adventures specializes in inclusive pricing, bundling accommodations, meals, and activities together. Depending on the adventure selected, the average trip price ranges from $700-1000 per person daily.

Say you saw them in Conroe City Lifestyle!

About 10% of Alaska Wildland Adventures guests are from Texas each year. So, as a shout-out to our Lone Star state, the fine folks there are offering City Lifestyle readers a special 10% off any Alaska Wildland Adventures lodge stay or vacation package for the remainder of the 2024 season.  (This offer is Good for new, direct bookings only and is based on availability.)  www.alaskawildland.com

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Broaden Your Horizons

Step outside your comfort zone and explore some unique activities in our community this summer. The opportunities we are sharing take us from ordinary to extraordinary in the worlds of square dancing, beekeeping, musical mastery, herb and spice gardening, and lifelong learning.

SWING YOUR PARTNER ROUND AND ROUND

Square dancing is an American dance tradition, and The Conroe Country Cousins Square Dance Club in Willis welcomes everyone. The club was formed in 1965 and is still going strong today, with new members discovering the joys of "swinging your partner!" The club boasts the best callers and cuers in Texas and dancers at every skill level.

"We dance for fun, not perfection," says Gene Miller, President. "It's great exercise for the body and mind." Club members meet once a week on Thursday evenings from seven to nine at Miller Hall Family Event Center, 608 W. Martin Luther King in Willis.

Traditional square dance attire is not required, although many enjoy wearing full skirts, petticoats, crinoline slips, colorful blouses, Western shirts, and bolo ties. conroecountrycousins. weebly.com

MMM, SATISFY YOUR NATURAL SWEET TOOTH

If you're a fan of the buzzing pollinators all around us, beekeeping is for you. The Montgomery County Beekeepers Association, established in 1975, holds informational meetings on the 3rd Monday of each month. Learn about bee suits and gloves, installing hives, how to care for your bees, honey extraction, what to plant, and much more.

From apprentice to advanced, there's something for everyone in this vital realm of nature, which bolsters local gardens and greatly helps the environment.

Dues are $20 per year per family or individual with buy/sell/trade opportunities for members. Meetings are held at 9020 Airport Rd. in Conroe at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension building. mocobees.com

MUSIC - IT IS NEVER TOO LATE

It's not too late to fulfill a lifelong dream at The Art of Music Studio to learn to play a musical instrument. Pick up where you left off or hone a brand new skill through private lessons in guitar, piano/keyboard, ukulele, drums, singing, violin, and more.

"I've taught lots of people in their fifties, sixties, seventies, and in their eighties," says Judi Lanza, owner. "Music activates, stimulates, uses the entire brain, is a great later-in-life activity."

Before you decide on an instrument, take a lesson and discover what seems right for you. Then, become the musician you've always envisioned and cross a milestone off your bucket list. Classes are held Monday through Wednesday at Harvest Family Church, 303 Post Oak Dr., near Gladstell. Connect with Judi Lanza at 936756-8777. theartofmusicstudio.com

FROM BACKYARD TO TABLE

Instead of buying herbs and spices at the grocery store, experiment with growing your own. The Texas A&M AgriLife website offers guidance and tips for anyone willing to try. You might be surprised at the gardening resources available on the "AgriLife Learn" pages, much of it at no charge. For instance, the e-books Herbs for Texas Landscapes, Growing Herbs in Texas, Easy Gardening: Dill, Easy Gardening: Rosemary, and Easy Gardening: Ginger are all free downloads.

Take classes to learn about aquaponics, composting, floral gardens, greenhouses, herb gardens, orchards, and vegetable gardens. You'll be growing fragrant and tasty seasonings in windowsill pots or your outdoor garden patch in no time while enjoying powerful health benefits. mcmga.com

“I’ve taught lots of people in their fifties, sixties, seventies, and in their eighties,” says Judi Lanza, owner. “Music activates, stimulates, uses the entire brain, and is a great activity.”

“Instead of buying herbs and spices at the grocery store, experiment with growing your own. Take classes to learn about aquaponics, composting, floral gardens, greenhouses, herb gardens, orchards, and vegetable gardens.”

Learn to grow aromatic ingredients that add zest to your garden and your home-cooked dishes.

NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN

If you're 50 or older, consider the Lone Star College Academy of Lifelong Learning (ALL). The program costs an annual fee of $25, from September through the following August. Then you can take as many no-cost classes as you wish."

Participants enjoy arts and crafts, computer skills, cooking, finance, retirement planning, astrology, bridge, chess, gardening, health, history, government, music, current events, self-defense, birding, aging in place, world religions, and more.

Check out several open houses in August, one at the Montgomery campus at the Maverick Conference Center, 3200 College Park Dr. on August 14, and in Tomball, Kingwood, Houston, and other locations. lonestar.edu/all.htm

YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

UNCOVERING Bold Sassy SUMMER HAIRSTYLES

ARTICLE BY PEYTON MACKENZIE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON MATLOCK

Nestled in the heart of the Waterpoint Shopping Center along the lake in Montgomery, Beyond Fringe is a highend salon that has transformed under new ownership and is setting a new standard for hair care in the area. In business since 2009, it was acquired by passionate stylist Kade Devillier. Under his guidance, the salon offers a unique blend of top-notch service and a highly educated team, challenging the notion that great hair requires a trip to The Woodlands or the Galleria.

"I acquired the salon in 2017 from the previous owner. There were not any high-end salons in the area back then," said Devillier. "We were the first ones out here to provide a high level of customer service and skilled stylists capable of intricate designs."

He said the path to becoming a salon owner was unconventional. Devillier said he grew up in the show cattle business. He would cut, color, and condition their hair twice a day. After deciding the traditional college route was no longer for him, he worked with a friend at JCPenney Salon and decided he was meant for a salon.

“PEOPLE THOUGHT THEY HAD TO TRAVEL FAR FOR QUALITY SERVICE, but that is not true. OUR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND A TEAM OF HIGHLY TRAINED STYLISTS TO MEET EVERY GUEST’S UNIQUE VISION.”

Owning the salon has brought new responsibilities, especially with investors now involved. Devillier said he had to learn to delegate and manage administrative duties, but he is still behind the chair Thursday through Saturday. He also serves as an artist for Goldwell Color, traveling to teach hair color classes. Despite the challenges, the rewards are immense.

"Serving the community I live in is the biggest reward. Many of my clients come from April Sound, Walden, Bentwater, and Woodforest. Being part of the community is very fulfilling."

For aspiring stylists, the owner advises that they seek a good school, do their own research, and not be afraid to invest in quality education. He said the state recently cut required hours, but the most beneficial time in school is often the last 500 hours, so he gives extra attention to those who still fulfill the additional 500 hours.

The salon offers complimentary consultations to discuss everything, including price and process. It is better than playing 'kitchen beautician' at home, he said.

Devillier said in the hair business communication is key.

"Be honest with your stylist about what you want and if you're thinking about changes. It's all about finding a stylist that matches your personality and needs."

As the salon continues to grow, it remains a cornerstone of the community, dedicated to providing exceptional hair care and fostering a supportive environment for clients and stylists alike.

“People thought they had to travel far for quality service, but we have proven that is not true. Our goal is to provide exceptional customer service and a team of highly trained stylists to meet every guest's unique vision.”

Top: Textured layered hair cut with warm balayage. Bottom: Long and beautiful works for any occasion!

Check out these visual references to help guide you this summer season, then call for an appointment with one of their Platinum Artists at (936) 447-2887 or go online to see which artists may be a good fit based on their area of expertise. Beyond Fringe also offers services from a Lash Technician and a Makeup Artist. Don't be afraid to be bold.

ARTICLE BY ALISON KARTEVOLD

U.S. Army Sergeant Joanna Ellenbeck and her daughter, Parker, are celebrating this 4th of July in their new mortgage-free custom home in The Woodlands Hills, complete with its own flag pole. Several area companies gave them this life-changing gift due to the veteran’s sacrifice to her country.

“It was truly heartwarming to watch U.S. Army Sargeant Ellenbeck and her daughter enter the front door of their new home,” said Steve Sams, Senior Vice President of Master Planned Communities, Residential for Howard Hughes. “We are honored to partner with Operation Finally Home, Century Communities, Greater Houston Builders Association, the Houston Texans, and many other organizations to build the Ellenbecks’ new home. They are such a deserving family, and we are pleased to welcome them as the newest neighbors in The Woodlands Hills.”

Growing up in a family with a long history of military service, Joanna Ellenbeck always knew she was destined to serve her country. She is the fourth generation in a row to be in the military, starting with her great-grandfather, who served in WWII. Ellenbeck enlisted shortly after the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, and served eight years and six months, including three combat deployments: one to Afghanistan and two to Iraq.

Serving with the 25th Infantry Division, Ellenbeck worked mostly as an avionics mechanic repairing helicopters, and she learned quickly that the harsh realities of war were never far away. Once, when on guard duty, she and a fellow service member discovered a wounded man hidden in a truck bed. As Ellenbeck began to render first aid, the man attacked her. Later interrogations revealed the man was a terrorist.

Her years of service took its toll in scars that are both visible and invisible. She suffered a debilitating back injury during her 2004 deployment and also suffers from PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, tinnitus, a sciatic nerve disorder, sensory deficits in both lower legs, and knee pain. Ellenbeck’s doctors believe her service-related injuries will one day require her to use a wheelchair.

This is one of the reasons the Ellenbecks moved from Arizona so they could live closer to family and friends. This will help provide Ellenbeck’s young daughter with the medical, therapeutic, and educational support she needs. Parker was born blind, has cerebral palsy, and uses a wheelchair.

The Ellenbeck family was initially surprised on December 18, 2022, during a Houston Texans game, when they learned they were receiving a custom-built, mortgage-free home constructed by Century Communities on a home site donated by Howard Hughes in The Woodlands Hills.

Fast-forward to 2024, and it was finally time to see the end results and receive the keys to their new home. During the unaveiling ceremony, Lee Kirgan, Vice President of Operation Finally Home, spoke of the sacrifices that veterans make every day to serve our country.  By the time they return, many veterans have sacrificed their bodies, minds, and futures.

“How can we possibly do enough to repay them for what they have done for us?” Kirgan says, “We are building hope.”

The efforts of everyone involved were well-received.

“I can’t say how much this changes the outlook of the rest of my life,” said Ellenbeck, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart!”

JULY 2024

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 3RD

Star Spangled Salute by Houston Symphony

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | 7:00 PM

Star-Spangled Salute is back for another year with the Houston Symphony. Expect energy, exuberance, and excitement in every patriotically packed moment. Listen for the cannons! And of course – don’t forget to come early! There will be tons of fun in the plazas and plenty of red, white, and blue gear to go around. FREE!

JULY 5TH - 21ST

Beauty and the Beast

The Crighton Theatre 234 N. Main, Conroe

Based on the smash hit 1991 Disney animated feature and dating back to a late 18th-century classic French fairy tale, Beauty and the Beast tells the story of Belle, a beautiful and intelligent young woman who feels out of place in her provincial French village. CrightonTheatre.org

JULY 11TH

First Thursday Concert Series

Heritage Place Park, Downtown Conroe | 7:00 PM

Invite your friends, bring the family, and relax to hits from Level One Band in a Motown Tribute. Get comfortable. Bring your chairs and blankets. Food and beverages may be brought in (no glass containers). Food trucks will be on-site for your convenience.

JULY 13TH

Montgomery County

Christmas in July

Lone Star Convention Center, 9055 Airport Road, Conroe | 9:00 AM

It’s never too early to start thinking about the Holidays. Come help support local small business owners offering Women’s and Children’s Boutique Clothing, Home, Holiday, and Garden Decor, Gourmet food items, Handmade and Fashion Jewelry, Fashion Trucks, and so much more—$5 cash entry fee. Teachers, Military and First Responders with ID, and Children under 15 have Free Entry.

JULY

13TH - 21ST

The Rocky Horror Show

The Owen Theatre, 225 Metcalf Street, Conroe

In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. They are quickly swept up in the scientist’s latest ex periment, and the night’s misadven tures cause Brad and Janet to ques tion everything they’ve known about themselves. A loving homage to the classic B sci-fi film. OwenTheatre.com

JULY 19TH

Athena

Leadership Luncheon

Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe

The ATHENA Leadership Award is presented to a local woman who has achieved professional excellence, contributes time and energy to im proving the quality of life for others, and actively assists women and girls in realizing their full potential. Award recipients have included education leaders, business executives, and non-profit founders. Nominations are sent to ATHENA International, which selects finalists and recipients.

Want to be featured?

AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST

Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa

Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.

Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.

Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. The expansive, 18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by awardwinning architect Arthur Hills, allows golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.

A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen. Scheduled kids activities are

available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property.

The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advance reservations are required and encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place or eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace.

After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com

ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE