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S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

LEADING ORTHOPEDIC CARE KEEPS YOU MOVING When an injury puts you on the sidelines, your Houston Methodist orthopedic team puts expertise into play. We’ll customize a minimally invasive treatment plan to get you back out there — doing the things you love.

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Learn More At crcu.org/rewards *APY=Annual Percentage Yield. APY’s accurate as of 04/06/26. Rates may change after account is opened. Minimum to open is $5. Available to personal accounts only. Qualifications must post and settle the account during each monthly statement cycle: have at least 20 debit card purchases, have at least 1 automatic payment or direct deposit; be enrolled and receive eStatement notice. Transactions may take one or more banking days from the date the transaction was made to post and settle to an account. ATM transactions do not count towards qualifying debit card transactions. Intra-bank transfers do not count as qualifying ACH transactions. If qualifications are met each monthly statement cycle: balances up to and including $20,000 with 20 monthly debit card purchases receives 2.00% APY, balances up to and including $20,000 with 30 monthly debit card purchases receives 2.50% APY, balances up to and including $20,000 with 40 monthly debit card purchases receives 3.00% APY and balances over $20,000 earn 0.05% APY on portion of balances over $20,000, resulting in 0.05% - 3.00% APY depending on the balance. If qualifications are not met, all balances earn 0.05% APY. Fees could reduce the earnings on the account. **To qualify for the $150 bonus, member’s account has to be open for 6 months, in good standing, be signed up for estatements, and must receive at least two direct deposits of $400 or more for two separate months within a six-month period. The two deposits do not need to be consecutive, but must total a minimum of $800 across two months during the 6 month qualification period. If direct deposit is not made within the qualification period, $150 bonus is forfeited. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer and is limited to one $150 bonus per new personal checking account per member. Offer does not apply to business or multiple checking accounts. Offer subject to change or cancellation at any time. Bonus may constitute taxable in come for you. CRCU may issue an IRS Form 1099 to you. For new CRCU members only.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Style Is Everywhere - A Letter to Our Community There’s something fun about the word style. Most of us immediately think about fashion, handbags, or the latest trends, but style is so much bigger than what's hanging in our closet. It's found in the way we design our homes, build our businesses, tell our stories, and serve our neighbors. Style is personal. It's intentional. It's the signature we leave on everything we create. At East Montgomery City Lifestyle, style has always been part of our DNA. When we launched this publication, we didn't set out to create something that would be read once and recycled. We wanted every issue to feel elevated. From the weight of the paper and the luxury aesthetic to the photography, layouts, and carefully selected cover, every detail is considered. Our goal has always been to create something you'll leave on your coffee table, flip through again, and proudly share with family and friends. We believe a magazine can be both informative and beautiful. That vision wouldn't be possible without the talented photographers who have helped shape our publication. This month, we're celebrating the artists behind the lens whose work has transformed everyday moments into images worth remembering. Their creativity gives personality to our pages and preserves the stories that define our region. You'll also meet the family behind med•lē, a handbag company whose story proves style and purpose can go hand in hand. What began as parents planning for their son Jackson's future became a business rooted in love, legacy, and giving back. Speaking of bringing people together, Taste of the Town Lake Houston returns this September with dozens of local restaurants, bakeries, and beverage vendors serving incredible food for an even greater cause. It's a wonderful reminder of what happens when local businesses unite to support their community. You'll also read about two organizations changing lives every day. The Northeast Hospital Foundation is celebrating 25 years of Project Mammogram, providing thousands of women with access to lifesaving breast health services. And The Village Centers continues creating opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build confidence, independence, and meaningful lives. As you turn these pages, I hope you're reminded that style isn't defined by labels or trends. It's found in thoughtful design, meaningful work, generous hearts, and people who choose to leave the world a little better than they found it. I hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed creating it. NICOLE COOK, PUBLISHER @ E AS T M O N TG O M E RYC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Nicole Cook | nicole.cook@citylifestyle.com CO-PUBLISHER

Mike Cook | mike.cook@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Michelle Glicksman michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com AR E A D I R E C TO R

Alyssa Sanders | alyssa.sanders@citylifestyle.com AD M I N I ST R AT I VE C O O R D I N ATO R

Kelsey Connell | kelsey.connell@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jessica Lawrence C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Breezy Pettit l Breezy Pettit Photography Hung L Truong | Hung L Truong Photography LLC

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Zach Miller LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 East Montgomery City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the East Montgomery area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in East Montgomery City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E ASTMO N TG O M E RY

inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

18 Featured

14 18

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

We Asked ...

Tips for Taking Good Photos

Fashion With Purpose

How One Family’s Love Inspired a Custom Handbag Brand

Taste of the Town

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Artist’s Palette PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Local’s Choice ENTERTAINMENT

Giving Back HEALTH + WELLNESS

Our Town LIFE + CULTURE

How To FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

Lake Houston’s Favorite Culinary Fundraiser Returns Sept. 10 With Food, Fun, and Community

On the Cover The handbags from med•lē Handbags are not only stylish but serve a purpose. Photography: Breezy Pettit l Breezy Pettit Photography

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

Celebrating Independence. Honoring Tradition. 1—7: Every Fourth of July, our communities come together to celebrate the freedoms we share and the traditions that unite us. From New Caney’s hometown Independence Day festivities to the 53rd Annual Kingwood 4th of July Parade celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, these events reflect the pride, service, volunteer spirit, and dedication that define our local communities. Families, businesses, civic organizations, first responders, veterans, schools, and neighbors all play a part in creating memories that span generations. We are honored to recognize the volunteers, sponsors, participants, and community leaders whose time, commitment, and generosity keep these cherished traditions thriving year after year. Happy Independence Day to all.

C I T Y SC E N E

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ E A S T M O N T G O M E R Y C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

14 13

Don’t Miss This Year’s Chicks & Hogs BBQ & Brew-Fest—September 26, 2026! 8—14: Above are some of our favorite moments from last year’s Chicks & Hogs BBQ & Brew-Fest. This Lake Houston tradition brings together great barbecue, friendly competition, live entertainment, and plenty of community spirit—all in support of Family Promise of Lake Houston and its mission to help local families experiencing homelessness.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Growing brighter futures, one classroom and community at a time. Families in Tavola have even more to celebrate as a new elementary school opens its doors for the 2026-2027 school year. Designed to serve the community’s growing population, the campus provides modern learning spaces, innovative resources, and a welcoming environment for students to thrive. This exciting addition reflects Tavola’s continued growth, while creating new opportunities for young learners and strengthening the heart of the neighborhood. Photography by New Caney ISD

Celebrating one beautiful year of wellness! Downtown Esthetics & Wellness celebrated its first anniversary with an

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

afternoon of appreciation, exclusive specials, and community connection. Guests enjoyed product representatives, giveaways, 20% off skincare, discounted services, and special RSVP gifts. The celebration marked an exciting milestone for the growing business and reflected its commitment to helping clients look and feel their best while building lasting relationships within the Cleveland community.

Become Who You’re Meant To Be

Celebrating champions who made East Montgomery County proud this summer! Congratulations to the EMC 8U AllStar Baseball Team for an unforgettable season! Led by Commissioner and Head Coach Matt Gray, the team captured the Texas DYB Division I 8U Coach Pitch State Championship this summer through hard work, determination, and outstanding teamwork. Their incredible achievement showcases the talent, dedication, and sportsmanship of these young athletes, while bringing pride and excitement to the entire East Montgomery County community. Photography by EMC Baseball Association

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We Asked ...

What’s One Tip You Can Share for Either Looking Good in a Photo or for Taking a Good Photo?

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | P ROF E SSION AL SE RVICE S

HUNG L TRUONG

Hung L Truong Photography LLC HungPhotography.net @HungPhotography6 Specializing in candid pictures. "To capture someone without knowing it, to get a genuine emotion on their faces."

JEN PISANI

Jen Pisani Photography | JenPisaniPhotography.com @JenPisaniPhotography Creating timeless portrait artwork that celebrates the people you love most and belongs on your walls, not your phone. “Don't worry about being ‘photogenic’—everyone is. The secret is to relax, trust the person behind the camera, and focus on enjoying the moment instead of trying to pose perfectly.”

FRANCIE BATLAZAR STONESTREET

Fireheart Photography | FireheartPhotography.com @FireheartPhoto Specializing in authentic branding; unforgettable seniors; and curated photography with purpose, passion, and style. "What's closest to the camera is the biggest. Lean slightly forward in photos. For group photos, get in the middle—the edges are the biggest (I call it the fat spot!)."

CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E ASTMO N TG O M E RY

CHRISTA MCCOURT

Houston Studio LLC and Kingwood Business Women HoustonStudio.com; KingwoodBusinessWomen.org @Houstonstudio_ and @KingwoodBusinessWomen Specializing in helping businesses transform their marketing through branding photography, commercial video, and creative direction that builds trust and drives growth. "One of the biggest things people overlook is light. Before I even think about posing, I always look for where the light is coming from because light shapes everything. Soft, even light coming from in front of you is almost always the most flattering. If the brightest light is behind you, it can leave your face dark and underexposed unless you have additional lighting to balance it. Simply turning toward the light can completely transform a photo."

BROOKE MADL

Brooke Madl Photography BrookeMadlPhotography.mypixieset.com @BrookeMadlPhotography Specializing in capturing authentic, joyful moments through family, child, maternity, senior, milestone, and couples photography. "The best photos feel natural, so don’t be afraid to move, interact, and have fun instead of trying to pose perfectly. For a flattering photo, slightly turn your body instead of standing completely straight-on and focus on genuinely enjoying the moment!"

KELLY ANNE BOOTH

Kelly Anne Style Photography | KellyAnneStyle.com @kellyannestyle Luxury senior portrait studio specializing in editorial-inspired senior portraits. The goal is to create an unforgettable experience while preserving this once-in-a-lifetime season with timeless, authentic images that celebrate each senior’s personality. “Your mindset matters more than any pose. What you’re thinking shows up in both your expression and your body language, so let go of trying to be perfect. Think about someone you love, a favorite memory, or play your favorite songs and trust the process. Confidence and genuine emotion will always create the most beautiful portraits.” Photo by Hunter Leone

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | P ROF E SSION AL SE RVICE S

Events | Wedding | Portrait | Family | Real Estate 832-314-4963 hungphotography.net hungltruongphotography@gmail.com

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FASHION WITH PURPOSE ARTICLE BY JESSICA LAWRENCE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BREEZY PETTIT

HOW ONE FAMILY’S LOVE INSPIRED A CUSTOM HANDBAG BRAND

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

“We wanted to make something whimsical, fun, and indestructible.” —Gena Smith When Gena Smith and her husband, Mike, sat down for dinner in 2017, they weren't searching for their next business venture. They were searching for a way to better support their son, Jackson, who has Down Syndrome. With occupational therapy, physical therapy, reading intervention, and copious appointments, the costs of giving Jackson every opportunity to thrive continued to mount. That evening, one simple observation inspired an idea. "My husband looked around the restaurant and said, 'Everybody is carrying handbags,'" Gena recalls. The couple envisioned something that would be different than what was already on the market. These handbags would reflect Jackson's joyful personality while withstanding everyday life. "We wanted to make something whimsical, fun, and indestructible," recalls Gena, with a smile.

Inspired by the durable material of the Crocs shoes Jackson loved, they created med•lē Handbags, a collection of customizable handbags fashioned from lightweight, easy-to-clean EVA material. Each design features interchangeable bodies, handles, and liners, allowing customers to create various looks from a single bag. "We didn't want it to be boring," Gena says. "Jackson is vibrant and expressive. We wanted his personality to shine through everything we created." The response was immediate. Following a successful 2018 fashion show featuring local designers, med•lē expanded into boutiques across Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana, while showcasing collections at the Dallas Market Center and the Galleria Houston. Momentum was building until the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly closed retail opportunities. "COVID devastated med•lē Handbags, but it didn't kill it," Gena says. Rather than walking away, the Smith family kept moving forward. Today, the handbags are available online and through Gena's Planet Beach wellness studio, with every purchase continuing to support Jackson's specialized needs. "We never gave up," she says. "The business was never just about handbags. It was always about helping Jackson." This sentiment remains stitched into every detail. The company itself is named after the couple's daughter, Medley, ensuring both children are represented in the family's story. "If you have a dream, share it with people," she says. "You don't know who they know or how they'll help. We couldn't have done this alone." To explore the full med•lē collection or create a handbag that's uniquely your own, visit ShopMedLe.com. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E ASTMO N TG O M E RY

Lake Houston’s Favorite Culinary Fundraiser Returns Sept. 10 With Food, Fun, and Community

LOCA L’S CH OICE | ENTERTAIN ME N T

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY INSPIRE ND/EMCL

Taste of the Town

Some of the Lake Houston area's best restaurants and vendors are coming together for one flavorful evening—and every bite supports a meaningful cause. Taste of the Town Lake Houston returns Thurs., Sept. 10, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Humble Civic Center, where attendees can enjoy tastings from more than 35 local restaurants, bakeries, and beverage vendors while supporting Inspire ND's mission of creating more inclusive communities for individuals with neurodiversity. Now in its fifth year, the event has become one of the Lake Houston area's signature community gatherings, with more than 700 attendees expected. "It's a fun night out that benefits a good cause," says Erica Johnston, director of development & outreach for Inspire ND. "Taste of the Town is much more than a food event. It's an opportunity to sample incredible local cuisine, support area businesses, spend time with friends and family, and make a meaningful impact." Enjoy everything from barbecue and Cajun specialties to pastries, coffee, and sweet treats from returning favorites, including Chick-fil-A, Fire Craft BBQ ,

Graze Craze, Texas Roadhouse, and Yummy Tummy Pastries, along with newcomers such as Fig and Table Coffee Co., Dreaux's Creole & Cajun Seafood, and HTeaO. There’s also live DJ music, photo opportunities, interactive experiences, and the People's Choice competition. General admission includes unlimited food tastings. VIP tickets include exclusive tastings, a private bar, reserved seating, and additional voting coins. "When local businesses choose to give back, the entire community benefits," Johnston says. "We are honored to partner with organizations that believe inclusion is worth investing in. We are deeply grateful for the continued support of Stander & Company, Amanda Petree, JLA, the City of Humble, Shell Federal Credit Union, First Service Credit Union, Frost Bank, 4Ever Young Kingwood, Renewal by Andersen, Houston Methodist, Insperity, Chick-fil-A Wilson/Beltway 8, and the Humble Noon Lions." Tickets are available at TasteofthetownLH2026.eventbrite.com or InspireND.org.

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A Legacy of Lifesaving Hope The In the Pink Northeast Luncheon Celebrates 25 Years of Project Mammogram Each fall, hundreds from the community gather in a sea of pink to celebrate survivors, remember loved ones, and help ensure every woman has access to lifesaving breast health care. This year, the 17th Annual In the Pink Northeast Luncheon will be held Fri., Oct. 30, at the Humble Civic Center. The event, for which triple-negative breast cancer survivor Nikki Adams will serve as honorary co-chair, will carry special significance as guests commemorate the 25th anniversary of Project Mammogram. As the Northeast Hospital Foundation’s premier fundraiser, the luncheon is the largest source of financial support for Project Mammogram, a program serving eligible uninsured and underinsured women across Northeast Houston. More than 600 guests are expected to attend. A complimentary champagne reception, bid board, raffle, and boutique shopping will begin at 10 a.m., followed by lunch and the seated program at 11:30 a.m. The program will include survivor recognition, moving personal stories, and important conversations about early detection. Together, these moments illustrate the luncheon’s central message that no woman should face barriers to potentially lifesaving care. “This luncheon brings our entire community together around women and families who need us,” says Brooke Baugh, director of

ARTICLE BY JESSICA LAWRENCE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY NORTHEAST HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

G IV IN G BAC K | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

development and programs for the Northeast Hospital Foundation. “It is a celebration, but it is also a reminder of why this work remains so important.” Project Mammogram began with a $5,000 gift from the Kingwood Women’s Club. Over the past 25 years, it has grown into a comprehensive program that has provided more than 13,000 Northeast Houston residents with breast health services. Today, the program funds screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, biopsies, and patient navigation at no cost for eligible women. Through partnerships with Memorial Hermann Northeast and The Rose, patients receive guidance from their initial screening through diagnosis and, when necessary, treatment. “I don't just coordinate care,” says Project Mammogram coordinator Silvia Torres. “I help bridge the gap between fear and hope for the women who need it most, especially those who face financial hardship and health disparities.”

Project Mammogram volunteers Carol Prince and Ronna Hardage with the Kingwood Women’s Club—outreach in action!

Funds raised during the luncheon will also help Project Mammogram broaden its reach. A new partnership with Memorial Hermann Neighborhood Health Centers assists women who need a physical examination and a physician’s order before receiving a mammogram. An expanded partnership with The Rose will bring mobile mammography events into communities across the foundation’s 26-ZIP-code service area. “Every year, we ask ourselves where the gaps are,” Baugh says. “Then we look for ways to remove those barriers so women can receive lifesaving screenings.” The luncheon also creates an elevated platform for breast health education. With one in eight women expected to receive a breast cancer

A luxury raffle at the 2025 event.

Attendees at the pre-function 2025 event.

diagnosis during her lifetime, organizers hope every guest leaves empowered to prioritize her health and to encourage others to do the same. Project Mammogram partners with the national Know Your Lemons campaign to teach women about the 12 visible signs of breast cancer, expanding awareness beyond the presence of a lump. During the luncheon, education becomes intimate as survivors and families share how early detection and self-advocacy shaped their journeys. “We don’t always put ourselves on our own to-do list,” Baugh says. “Schedule your mammogram every year, but if you notice something before then, don’t wait. Be your own advocate until someone listens.” City Lifestyle is proud to partner with the foundation as the community gathers to honor 25 years of lifesaving hope and ensure this vital work continues. To learn more, sponsor the luncheon, or support Project Mammogram, visit the Northeast Hospital Foundation at NortheastHospitalFoundation.org.

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A PLACE TO BELONG For 26 Years, The Village Centers Has Empowered Adults With IDD to Build Independence, Purpose, and Lasting Connections ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY THE VILLAGE CENTERS

What began with two determined mothers has grown into a lifeline for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across Greater Houston. The Village Centers was founded in 2000 by Kimberly Brusatori and Linda Schuiten. As their children approached adulthood, they discovered there were very few meaningful opportunities available after high school for individuals with IDD. Rather than accept that reality, they chose to create something better. Today, the nonprofit serves more than 130 individuals ages 18 and older each month through adult day programs, vocational training, residential services, transportation, and Home and Community Based Services (HCS). "We focus on ability rather than disability," says Kinsey Crabtree, director of development at The Village Centers. "Every Villager has unique talents, goals, and dreams. Instead of asking what someone cannot do, we ask what support they need to succeed." The organization offers individualized programming for adults 18 and older, including employment readiness, life-skills training, and partnerships with businesses such as Kohl's, McDonald's, and Walgreens. This fall, The Village Centers is also launching a new transitional program for young adults ages 18 to 22, helping bridge the gap between high school and adulthood through career exploration and vocational training. The Village Centers also operates five staffed community homes where residents receive personalized support while building independence, developing daily living skills, and participating in community life.

O UR TOWN | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Villager Tyler meets the incredible theatre students from West Fork High School who performed at The Village Centers' 2025 Gala.

Villager Nick Gentry posing with one of his many original art pieces.

Longtime Villager Amanda shines at The Village Centers' 2026 Casino Night event.

Jessica and Aaron, longtime Villagers and the sweetest couple, pose together on Wear Purple Day.

Crabtree says the organization's mission extends beyond its campus. "Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have incredible abilities, talents and potential," she says. "They deserve the same opportunities to learn, work, build relationships, and contribute to our community." Community members can support the mission by volunteering, hiring Villagers, touring the campus, or attending The Village Centers' annual Masquerade Ball gala on Sept. 25. The gala will feature auctions, entertainment, and stories celebrating the organization's impact. TheVillageCenters.org

Staff, Villagers, and volunteers celebrating The Village Centers' Family Picnic event.

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A LATE SUMMER/EARLY FALL TREAT

APPLE CIDER

sangria

H OW TO | FO O D + BEVER AGE

As the season transitions into fall, it still features the warm, sunny days of summer but nights start to drop into the crisp temperatures. That leaves us in the limbo of wanting cool, refreshing drinks part of the time but also craving the deeper, spice-infused flavors of autumn. This recipe for apple cider sangria is the perfect blending of the seasons, leaving you feeling both refreshed and warmed through the deep flavors and interesting hints of spice. It’s a great drink to add to any dinner party, cocktail gathering, back deck after-hours get-together, or birthday bash. Here’s what you need to make the perfect mid-season cocktail to enhance whatever event you have planned.

ARTICLE BY ALLISON BANKSTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • • •

Combine all ingredients together and stir. Refrigerate for an hour or so (or longer) before serving. The drink can be enjoyed immediately, if desired, but the longer you let the ingredients sit and mix, the deeper the flavors will be. Giving it time to develop will make the drink more captivating and interesting.

1 bottle, standard size, of pinot grigio 2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider 1 cup club soda 1/2 cup ginger brandy 3 honey crisp apples, chopped 3 pears, chopped

NOTE: Regular brandy can be used, but ginger brandy gives it an extra kick of flavor.

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E ASTMO N TG O M E RY

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

EVE RY 1 ST & 3 RD S UNDAY

New Caney Community Market Valley Ranch Town Center - 21550 Market Place Drive, Ste. 100, New Caney, Texas 77357 | 11:00 AM Visit New Caney Community Market in the Valley Ranch Town Center parking lot every first and third Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.! There is local produce, meats, honey, baked goods, artisan-made goods, and so much more from more than 60 unique vendors and local food trucks. SE PT E M BE R 1 0 T H

Taste of the Town Lake Houston 2026 Humble Civic Center - 8233 Will Clayton Pkwy., Humble, Texas 77338 | 5:00 PM This culinary experience, held from 5 to 8 p.m., showcases the best flavors of Lake Houston while supporting a great cause! Enjoy unlimited sampling of signature dishes, sweet treats, and refreshing beverages while experiencing the incredible flavors that make our community unique. All proceeds from this event benefit Inspire ND, supporting its mission to create truly inclusive communities through education and engagement. SE PT E M BE R 1 1 T H - 2 0 TH

East Montgomery County Fair & Rodeo A.V. Bull Sallas Park - 21679 McCleskey Road, New Caney, Texas 77357 | 6:45 PM The East Montgomery County Fair, established in 1985, is an annual tradition dedicated to supporting local youth through college scholarships and a variety of enriching activities, including the junior livestock show, Fair Queen & King contests, and more. Through participation in these events, students gain valuable experience in leadership, responsibility, discipline, and hard work through their involvement in FFA and 4-H programs. SE PT E M BE R 1 8T H

Dukes & Boots Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures, 23101 State Hwy. 242, New Caney, Texas 77357 | 7:00 PM Dukes & Boots is an evening of country music, dancing, and fun for those ages 21 and over at Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures. Grab your favorite boots, enjoy a live DJ, drinks, dancing, waterpark attractions, and rides that are open late. It's the perfect way to kick off the weekend. SE PT E M BE R 2 5T H

The Village Centers Gala 2026 - A Night Beyond the Mask Hochzeit Hall - 427 Gentry St., Spring, Texas 77373 | 6:30 PM You and yours are invited to join The Village Centers for an evening of enchantment as they celebrate a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive! The organization's mission is to enhance the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and empower them to reach their full potential. Reserve your ticket or donate at https://Secure.qgiv.com/event/2026tvcgala/. SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H

16th Annual Chicks & Hogs BBQ & Brew-Fest A.V. Bull Sallas Park - 21675 McCleskey Road, New Caney, Texas 77357 | 12:00 PM This incredible event features top-tier cook teams competing in a CBA-sanctioned State Championship. Savor some of the best BBQ in Texas and sample craft beer from up to 20 breweries. Also, live music, a silent auction, an animal expo, a kid zone, a vendor fair, and more. This event helps support families facing homelessness. Grab your boots and help make a difference!

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