Here Is Houston Guide Winter 2011

Here is
Winter 2011
Houston.org Members $3.50 Non-members $7.00
AUSTIN
BRAZORIA
CHAMBERS
FORT BEND
G A LV E S T O N
HARRIS
LIBERTY
MONTG OMERY
S A N JA C I N T O
WA L L E R
YOUR HOME IS JUST A SECOND AWAY
ONE CHURCH IN FIVE LOCATIONS
WOODWAY 6400 Woodway at Voss Sat 6PM; Sun 9:30 & 11:11AM
WEST 19449 Katy Fwy at Fry Rd Sun 9:30 & 11AM
NORTH 22770 Hwy 59 N at Kingwood Dr Sat 6PM Sun 9:30 & 11AM
CYPRESS Berry Center Barker Cypress at West Rd Sun 9:30AM
SOUTH 12008 Shadow Creek Prkwy (Pearland) Sun at 11AM
D R . E D Y O U N G , PA S T O R 7 1 3 . 4 6 5 . 3 4 0 8 W W W. S E C O N D . O R G
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The Port of Houston Authority received the coveted 2007 Presidents E Star Award for export service in recognition of the PHAs export cargo growth. The Barbours Cut Container Terminal and Central Maintenance Facility were the first U.S. port facilities to develop, implement and maintain an innovative Environmental Management System that meets the rigorous standards of ISO 14001. PHA is also the first port authority in the world to receive ISO 28000:2007 certification for Port Police and the perimeter security operations at both the Barbours Cut and Bayport Terminals.
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Realtors always welcome. Realtors always welcome. Builder model homes Builder model homes open in communities daily. open in communities daily.
Winter 2011
contents
10 texas governor rick perry 11 houston mayor annise parker 12 harris county judge ed emmett 13 greater houston partnership president & ceo jeff moseley 14 houston association of realtors chairman carlos p. bujosa 16 greater houston builders association president mike dishberger 17 hr houston president kim garcia
Greetings
18
20 32 42 46 70
Map of the greater Houston Region

102
Here is Houston
Neighborhoods &
Communities
The urban and international lifestyle in downtown Houston
Neighborhood descriptions and renting and leasing information
All About Houston

Transportation, libraries, radio and other public services The story of Houstons growth to present day
122
Health Care
Hospitals and care for seniors
Houstons Historic Houston Life
Past
134
Fitness
For your good health
138
Dining
Favorite local eateries
Parks, performing arts, museums, festivals and family fun
At Home in Houston
Utilities, Department of Motor Vehicles, Helpful Web sites
142
Shopping
Malls, markets and more
80
Education
Houston ISD, select private schools, universities, medical schools and other institutions
146
Job Opportunities & Hiring Trends

Employers, employment services, Economic Development Groups
contents
Maps, Sidebars & Listings

a vibrant downtown scene accra cost-of-living index
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24
hospital rankings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 houston area communities houston area isd data houston consulates job search
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
106
area schools recognized by the texas education agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 calendar of annual events
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
53
houstons largest employers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
colleges & universities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 colleges & universities (map) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 colleges, universities & other degree granting institutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 community & junior colleges
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
148 82
loft living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 medical and health science schools

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
82
museums & attractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 museums & attractions (map) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 park facts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 performing arts companies & venues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 physician referral services port of houston
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
department of motor vehicles
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
economic development groups & chambers of commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 employment services gardening resources helpful web sites
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
149 108 76
127 35 109 77
establishing utility service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
public libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 renting & leasing in texas

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
golf courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
residential retail electric providers
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
select private schools & preschools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 select radio stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 texas facts
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
highway nicknames
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
hospitals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128 hospitals (map) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
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greater houston partnership chairman Patrick Oxford, Chairman Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP president & ceoJeff Moseley executive vice president & coo Tracye McDaniel chief economic development officer Craig J. Richard chief financial officer Ron Jeffers senior vice president, marketing & communications Marti Boone senior vice president, member services Susan Asimakis senior vice president, public policy Russell Reese Senior vice president, international business and world trade center houston Cody M. Sutton vice president, education & workforce Elaine Barber vice president, research Patrick Jankowski vice president, human resource Bonita Lockings Copyright 2011 Greater Houston Partnership. All rights reserved. Here is Houston is a registered trademark of the Greater Houston Partnership. To order additional copies, add your name to our mailing list, or submit a change of address, please call TEXAS MONTHLY CUSTOM PUBLISHING, at 512-320-6922. For more information on TEXAS MONTHLY CUSTOM PUBLISHING, please visit tmcp.com or contact David Dunham, Publisher-TEXAS MONTHLY Development at 512-320-6925, ddunham@texasmonthly.com. advertising
Mike McKee, Advertising Director 512-320-6934 Rebecca D. Akins, Advertising Sales Manager 713-871-0028 Allison Ann Brouillette Sales Resource Specialist
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Senior Production Manager

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design Andrew Lpez, Brad Perkins All photos courtesy of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau unless otherwise noted. on the cover: photo courtesy of the houston livestock show and rodeo
Meet the
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Welcome
Governor Rick Perry
Greetings to Here Is Houston readers.
Whether you are relocating, planning a corporate gathering or simply rediscovering the great city of Houston, I welcome you to explore all the possibilities it offers. Astronauts and sports heroes, premier art museums and cutting-edge medical research, friendly neighbors and outstanding universitiesthis dynamic city holds all of these and more. The Port of Houston and the accessibility of the areas airport and highway systems make Houston an undeniable leader in international trade opportunities. And its cultural diversity is unparalleled in any other city in the region.
I welcome you to explore all the possibilities Houston offers.

Texas is a state with strong schools and low taxes. We are adding jobs and are poised for continued growth and opportunity, and Houston is an essential component of our states success and pride. Whether you are moving here to attend school, pursue career options, or enjoy your retirement, I know Houstons legendary charm will provide a wonderful experience. Sincerely,
10
Welcome
Mayor Annise Parker I welcome new and prospective Houstonians to a diverse, opportunistic city.
As Mayor of Houston, I send regards to the readers of Here is Houston, the Greater Houston Partnerships official relocation guide. As a dynamic city of opportunity, Houston continues to be one of the fastest-growing major U.S. cities. Houston has a variety of successful small businesses and corporations which make our city the heart of technology, energy and manufacturing.
Houston is a city built on dreams, but dreams powered by hard work...

The City of Houston offers world-class restaurants, appealing museums and thrilling sports arenas which create the ideal city to live, work and play. Houston is a city built on dreams, but dreams powered by hard work, guided by common sense and inspired by creativity. I welcome new and prospective Houstonians to a diverse, opportunistic city. Please utilize Here is Houston as your primary source of information, which showcases every aspect of living and working in the city of Houston. Best wishes for much success, and I look forward to your continued support of our city. Sincerely,
greater houston partnership | houston.org
11
Welcome
Ed Emmett
County Judge, Harris County
Greetings! Harris County is a special place. Explore it. Enjoy it.
Harris County is a wonderful community in which to work, live and raise a family. Your new home county is the third most populous in America, with more residents than 23 other states. You share 1,778 square miles of beautiful Texas landscape with almost four million neighbors who also call Harris County home. You are now living in a vibrant, growing community that has something for everyone. Whether you enjoy live theater, music, museums, sporting events or exquisite cuisine, you will have many options from which to choose. The county commissioners supervise parks and recreation facilities that are world-class, and because of our climate, you can jog, cycle, golf and participate in many other sports year-round.
A vibrant, growing community that has something for everyone.

The people of Harris County are warm and friendly, with a strong community spirit. There is a can-do attitude in the business community, and our local elected officials work together to improve the quality of life for everyone. Keeping up with explosive growth while keeping taxes low is a challenge, and Harris County is meeting the challenge. Harris County is a special place. All of us in county government are glad you are here. Sincerely,
12
Welcome
Jeff Moseley
President & CEO, Greater Houston Partnership
Hello Neighbor! You could not have picked a more perfect time to relocate to our great region!
As a brand-new Houstonian, you join a very special legacy established by the Allen brothers when they built this great city on the bayou nearly 170 years agoa legacy that comes with the power to shape Houstons future. No one knows better than Houstonians that with vision, hard work, and the right attitude anything is possible. Spearheaded by the Greater Houston Partnership, Houstons business leaders, regional allies and stakeholders are joining forces in an ambitious multitiered approach to regional economic prosperity. By building on Houstons core strengths and emphasizing the region as a powerhouse for business and quality of place, they will help create 600,000 new jobs, $60 billion in capital investment, and $120 billion in increased foreign trade over the next decade. And you can do your part to help out by having some incredible Houston answers on hand when youre telling your friends and family why this region is such a terrific place. Open with Did you know Houston is the best city to live, work, and play, according to Kiplingers Personal Finance. Houston was named the best city to buy a home and the best U.S. city to earn a living by Forbes. Houston is the fourth-largest U.S. city, with a regional population of 5.2 million. Houston has no racial majority and is one of the most diverse big cities in the United States. Houston has the lowest cost of living among major U.S. metropolitan areas. Houston is home to the largest concentration of medical professionals in the history of the worldthe Texas Medical Center! Houston has a moderate climate year-round, with more than 650 municipal, county, and state parks in the region. P.S. Dont take my word for it. Drive around town and see how remarkable it really is. Welcome home! See you around Houston, I encourage you to plant deep roots in your new hometown. Get involved in our outstanding community. Take time to discover more about the regions unique characteristics and opportunities. Discover for yourself what makes Houston the best place to live, work, learn, and play. Houston has nationally recognized educational institutions. Houston is home to Nobel laureates recognized for their work in chemistry, physiology of medicine and the elimination of antipersonnel land mines. Houston was the first word spoken from the moon, and the city is home to NASAs Johnson Space Center, hub of all human space flight operations. Houston is a port city with cruise lines and palm trees. Houston is home to five professional sports teams, including the Houston Rockets, two-time NBA champions, and Houston Dynamo, two-time MLS Cup champions. Houston is one of the few U.S. cities that offer resident companies in all performing and visual artssymphony, opera, drama, and ballet. Houstonians are the kindest, warmest and most charitable people you will ever meet.
13
Welcome
Carlos P. Bujosa
2011 Chairman, Houston Association of REALTORS
Its a pleasure to welcome you to Houston, Texas, one of the most dynamic and culturally diverse cities in the world.
Through challenging economic times, Houston continues to be envied as one of the most affordable major cities in the U.S. with a healthy real estate market. Considered a city of neighborhoods, Houston offers new residents as well as existing ones who may be moving, a wide selection of communities and homes that are compatible with every imaginable lifestyle.
The city you now call home recently received several national recognitions for its excellence. Forbes.com declared Houston Americas top shopping city as well as the best city for young professionals; The Daily Beast concluded that Houston is the best city to restart your career; Travel + Leisure ranked Houston as home to Americas Best Airports (George Bush Intercontinental and Hobby Airports); and Bloomberg Businessweek listed Houston as the No. 1 city for new college
Houston continues to be envied as one of the most affordable major cities in the U.S.
Each day, the 26,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS (HAR) help individuals and their families realize the American Dream. HAR is the nations second largest local REALTOR organization, and our members understand that a home is one of the largest and most significant investments you will ever make. More than one million consumers begin the search for their dream home every month by visiting HARs award-winning website, HAR.com. The site offers dozens of user-friendly tools to find out not only about specific properties and their amenities, but detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, area businesses and much more. HAR is continually developing new and innovative tools to simplify your home search, so I invite you to check out HAR.com today.
graduates. On behalf of all the members of HAR, welcome to Houston. We hope you enjoy all that our incredible community has to offer. Sincerely,
14
Find Your Home.

HAR.com has more than 50,000 properties for sale or leaseall in one easy-to-search location. Single-family, new construction, high rise, country homewhatever youre looking for, HAR.com has it. You can search by zip code, part of town or even customize your search by drawing your desired area on the Map Search feature. More than 1 million people visit HAR.com every month searching for a home or to just get a feel for the market.
Find Your ReAltoR .
HAR.com is brought to you by the more than 26,000 Realtors in the greater Houston area. If you are in the market for a home, find your Realtor today on HAR.com. Do you speak another language? So do we. More than 4,700 Realtors speak any of 91 languages. No matter how you say it, you can find your home and Realtor on HAR.com
Why doesnt every city have an HAR.com? We dont know... but arent you glad Houston does.
Ask Your ReAltoR

Houston Association of Realtors
Welcome
Mike Dishberger
2010 President, Greater Houston Builders Association
Welcome!
The Greater Houston Builders Association is a 65-year-old trade association that proudly represents all aspects of the residential building industry in the greater Houston area. Our mission is to be the voice of Houstons residential construction industry, serving our members and the community by education and advocating professionalism and quality housing. The association interacts with the government, community and general public to enhance the business climate for its members, and to provide quality obtainable housing to the community it serves.
Houstons residential housing market is one of the most affordable in the nation.
Buying a new home is one of the smartest investments you will ever make. With Houstons residential housing market continuing to be one of the most affordable in the nation, it makes perfect sense to invest in that home you and your family have dreamed about. I invite you to visit www.ghba.org for a listing of GHBA builder members. Sincerely,
16
Welcome
Kim Garcia, SPHR

2010-2011 President, HR Houston
Houston really has it all.
It is no fluke that Houston is home to so many employers of choice in diverse industries. From health care to energy, from manufacturing to logistics, from retail to financial services, Houston really has it all.
Members of HR Houston enjoy access to members-only content and significant discounts on HR Houston programs and events. HR Houston has joined the Greater Houston
What do successful companies in all industries have in common? Strategic human resource professionals leading successful recruitment, retention and talent development initiatives.
Partnership and other leading organizations in HCC Partners for Jobsa collaborative project focused on partnerships to promote jobs through education, training, access, helpful tools, and resources. We are making great things happen, right here in Houston. Join us! Visit www.hrhouston.org for more information. Sincerely,
Houston is the place for exceptional employment opportunities.

As one of the largest local human resource organizations in the country, HR Houston provides Houstons human resource professionals value-driven educational programs and services and networking with peers designed to help their employers bottom lines. They include: General meetings featuring nationally recognized experts Special interest meetings focused on specific HR specialties Group meetings throughout the Houston metro area Peer-to-peer practices Workshops on strategy, recruitment, leadership and financial management Annual conference featuring 100+ educational sessions and exhibitor showcase Certification courses and study groups networking and sharing of best
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Greater Houston Region

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States whose residents welcome visitors and newcomers alike with its friendly, culturally diverse outlook. The greater Houston region is comprised of ten counties: Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, San Jacinto and Waller. From vibrant city dwelling to laid-back coastal living to family-friendly neighborhoods, the regions variety of lifestyles truly offers something for everyone welcome home!
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eureka
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Here is Houston
Welcome to the world-class region.
No matter what you may think you know about Houstons ten-county region, theres a lot you probably dont know, and much youll be surprised to learn. Yes, Houston is the largest city in Texas, but its not all cowboys, cactus, and cattle. Here the grass is green, landscaping is lush and the tree canopy is thick and widespread. Known as the Bayou City, the Houston metro area is crisscrossed by a number of bayous, many of them flowing into Buffalo Bayou, site of the citys birthplace in the downtown area.
discovery green
Designed to be an engaging and interactive space in the heart of downtown, Discovery Greens schedule of events and activities is intended to serve all ages and backgrounds, including office workers, residents and visitors alike.
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ounded in 1836, Houston is less than 175 years
Because Houston opens its arms to all newcomers (after all, Texas means friend), the city is home to an amazingly diverse population from many countries. A true melting pot, Houston boasts restaurants, shops, neighborhoods and festivals that reflect its many international cultures. Dynamic and always on the move, Houston prides itself on being on the cutting edge of new technologies and innovations in architecture and design
old, making it far younger than its counterparts like New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Los Angeles. Yet Houston is now the nations fourth-
largest city, with a population of more than two million within the city limits and more than five million living within the metro area. Why the accelerated growth in a relatively short period of time? What makes Houston so attractive to so many? Part of the answer is Houstons can-do entrepreneurial spirit. From the citys early beginnings as an oil capital, Houston has encouraged and rewarded risk takers and dreamers. How else can you explain such extraordinary accomplishments as the Port of Houston (the nations second largest in total tonnage), the Texas Medical Center (the worlds largest medical complex, and one of the most renowned) and the Johnson Space Center (home to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration)? It may come as a surprise that, of the more than 94,000 firms here, only about 3,000 are tied to the energy industry. In fact, energy accounts for less than half of the employment in
Whether youre coming to visit or making Houston your permanent home, we think youll be delighted by what you find here. Houston opens its arms to all newcomers.
from the worlds first air-conditioned domed stadium to the NFLs first football stadium with a retractable roof, and now Discovery Green, the new twelve-acre downtown park designed as a multiuse, eco-friendly environment in the middle of the citys soaring skyscrapers. In fact, Houston was recently named one of the countrys top ten cities for green
Shops at Houston Center

Featuring a selection of fine shopping and dining, the Shops at Houston Center are just blocks from George R. Brown Convention Center as well as many hotels and office buildings.
technology innovation. With more than three hundred municipal parks and an additional two hundred open-space areas, the city ranks third in the nation in green space.
Houston. Other notable industries are business services, information technology, medical and biotechnology, aviation and aerospace, as well as manufacturing. Today 26 of the Fortune 500 companies have their home offices in Houston. And more than half of the worlds 100 largest foreign-based corporations have operations here. Another factor in Houstons success is its affordable cost of livingaided by the absence of a city or state income tax. Index, among the 27 largest metropolitan areas participating, the HoustonSugar LandBaytown metropolitan area had the lowest overall cost of living (10 percent below the national average for places of all sizes and 20 percent below that for large metro areas). Whether youre coming to visit or making Houston your permanent home, we think youll be delighted by what you find here. Read on and learn more about Houstons history, neighborhoods, housing options, cultural scene, schools, health services, shopping and more.
laurie ballesteros, photine.net
According to the third quarter 2008 ACCRA Cost-of-Living
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here is houston
T Loft Living
According to a study by the Houston Downtown Management District and Urban Marketing Collaborative, almost 10,000 permanent residents are expected to be living in downtown Houston by 2010. There are many options for urban dwellers who wish to live downtown. The following is only a partial list.
Bayou Lofts
Housed in the 1920 Southern Pacific Railroad Building in the historic Market Square area
Hogg Palace
In the heart of the Theater District
Four Seasons Place

Luxurious high-rise apartments atop the Four Seasons Hotel
Humble Tower Apartments

In the historic former Humble Oil Building
The Lofts at the Ballpark

Covering three city blocks and bordering Minute Maid Park
The Beaconsfield
The first high-rise apartment building in Houston
Post Rice Lofts

Formerly the historic Rice Hotel, now an upscale residential loft community
Sabine Street Lofts

Between Allen Parkway and Memorial Drive with views of Buffalo Bayou and downtown. For more information about downtown Houston, contact the Houston downtown management district at houstondowntown.com or 713-223-2003.
Capitol Lofts
Inside an early-1900s office and retail building
San Jacinto Lofts

Constructed inside a former brick-walled warehouse in the Historic District
Commerce Towers
A full-service high-rise condominium with more than 120 residences
Urban Lofts
With several locations to provide Houstonians with an innovative style of living
Franklin Lofts
In a historic neoclassical building whose exterior is virtually unchanged since it was built in 1904
2016 Main
A 26-floor condominium complex on the edge of downtown
T Texas Facts
Population
Unsurpassed Customer Service with Honesty and Integrity Seller Services Guarantee Life-long Resident of Friendswood Business owner in Friendswood for 12 Years
24.3 million
Area
268,581 square miles

Capital
Austin
Nickname
Lone Star State

State Motto
Friendship
State Bird
League City, Pearland and Greater Houston Area "If you are in the market to buy or sell a home and you want the highest level of professional service with Honesty and Integrity, Call me today!
Specializing in Clear Lake, Friendswood, Nasa,
Josie Barcenas, Broker
Fluent in Spanish and English
Mockingbird
State Flower
Bluebonnet
State Tree
Pecan
State Dish
Chili
Time Zone
Central Time Zone

(Except the El Paso area of far West Texas, which is in the Mountain Time Zone)
1560 W. Bay Area Blvd., Suite 148 Friendswood, TX. 77546 Of fice (281)486-5400 Cell (832)434-3979 Fax (281)486-5401 Email: Josie@BarcenasRealEstate.com Website: www.BarcenasRealEstate.com
23
T A Vibrant Downtown Scene

New office towers, entertainment venues, restaurants, retail outlets and residential lofts are redesigning the Houston skyline, and creating an exciting community atmosphere for those who work or live downtown as well as for visitors. Bounded by Interstate 10 on the north, U.S. 59 on the east and Interstate 45 on the south and west, downtown Houston contains 1,178 acres and is the center of the ten-county Houston metropolitan area.
Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

This $88 million venue in the Theater District contains two stages and is home to Theatre Under the Stars, the Broadway in Houston series, and Uniquely Houston.
Minute Maid Park

This state-of-the-art, retractableroof ballpark is home to the 2005 National League Champions, the Houston Astros. The park, which opened in 2000, has generated more than $700 million in nearby development.
Downtown Aquarium
This $38 million entertainment and four-hundred-seat restaurant complex is noteworthy for features not common to a restauranta 500,000-gallon aquarium, a shark tank, a ballroom, a separate caf, a gift shop, a Ferris wheel and a train.
Chase Tower
The tallest building in Texas and among the worlds tallest buildings, this 75-story tower has a public observation deck on the 60th floor.
Downtown Tunnel System

Downtowns underground, air-conditioned tunnel system, more than six miles long and connecting more than 75 buildings, is the worlds largest indoor pedestrian tunnel system, with hundreds of shops and restaurants twenty feet below the streets, according to the Houston Downtown Management District.
Market Square Historic District

Bounded by Travis, Milam, Preston, and Congress streets, Market Square has buildings dating back to 1860. Approximately forty restaurants or clubs and more than eight hundred residential units are located, or soon will be located, in and around this area.
Bayou Place
This 180,000-square-foot retail and entertainment complex has sparked downtown nightlife. Situated in the Theater District, it includes theaters, restaurants and clubs.
24
here is houston
METRORail
This $324 million light-rail line on Main Street began operating in 2004 and links downtown to the Museum District, the Texas Medical Center and Reliant Park.
Toyota Center George R. Brown Convention Center

In addition to offering more than one million square feet of meeting and exhibit space for business meetings and conferences, the center is the site of numerous annual shows, including ones that feature quilts, boats, bridal arrays, home improvement projects and collector items. Seven blocks from Minute Maid Park, this $235 million, 18,500-seat arena is home to the Houston Rockets basketball team and the Houston Aeros hockey team. It also hosts numerous concerts and other events.
Downtown Historic District Houston Theater District

Home to Houstons nine world-class performing arts organizations, the city is one of few in the United States with resident companies in drama, ballet, opera and orchestra.
Cotswold Project
A comprehensive upgrade to the streetscape, this $62 million improvement project in downtowns Historic District is adding head-in parking, fountains, brick pavers, public art and other amenities.
Bounded by Buffalo Bayou, Texas Avenue and Louisiana and Austin streets, this district comprises most of Houstons original town plat as it was laid out in 1836. Many restaurants and historical markers and landmarks, such as Christ Church Cathedral, founded in 1839, are located in the area.
25
T Houston Consulates
Consulate of the Republic of Albania Consulate of the Republic of Botswana Consulate General of the Czech Republic
The Honorable Pedro Rubio 10 Waterway Court The Woodlands, TX 77380-2641 281-548-4740
The Honorable Stephen V. Vallone 3200 Southwest Frwy, 34th Floor Houston, TX 77027 713-940-4580
The Honorable Raymond Snokhous P.O. Box 8 West, TX 76691 713-629-6963
Consulate General of the Republic of Angola
The Honorable Simao Pedro 3040 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 780 Houston, TX 77056-6500 713-212-3840
Consulate General of the Federative Republic of Brazil
His Excellency Antonio Jose de Castro 1233 West Loop S., Suite 1150 Houston, TX 77027-9100 713-961-3063
The Honorable Ray Daugbjerg 4545 Post Oak Place Drive, Suite 105 Houston, TX 77027-3164 713-622-9018
Consulate of the Kingdom of Denmark
Consulate General of the Argentine Republic
The Honorable Ricardo Gauthier 2200 West Loop South, Suite 1025 Houston, TX 77027 713-871-8935
Consulate of the Republic of Cameroon
The Honorable Charles R. Greene 6984 Oakwood Place Court East Houston, TX 77040 281-416-5212
4200 Westheimer Road, Suite 218 Houston, TX 77027-4415 713-572-8732
Consulate General of Ecuador
The Honorable Nana Booker 4623 Feagan Street Houston, TX 77007-7308 713-782-6009
Consulate General of Australia
The Honorable David McGregor 5847 San Felipe, Suite 1700 Houston, TX 77057-3000 713-821-1440
Consulate of Canada
Consulate General of the Arab Republic of Egypt
His Excellency El Husseini Abdelwahab 5718 Westheimer Road, Suite 1350 Houston, TX 77057 713-961-4915
Consulate General of the Republic of Austria

The Honorable Otmar Kolber 800 Wilcrest Drive, Suite 340 Houston, TX 77042 713-723-9979
Consulate General of the Republic of Chile
Consulate General of the Republic of El Salvador

The Honorable Luis Carranza 1702 Hillendahl Boulevard Houston, TX 77055-3432 713-270-6239
The Honorable Ricardo Ortiz 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1130 Houston, TX 77056-3028 713-621-5853
Consulate General of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh

The Honorable Edward Hudson 35 N. Wynden Drive Houston, TX 77056-2507 713-621-8700
Consulate General of the Peoples Republic of China

The Honorable Hong Qiao 3417 Montrose Boulevard Houston, TX 77006-4328 713-520-1462
Consulate General of Equatorial Guinea
The Honorable Inocencio Esono Olo 6401 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77074 713-776-9900
The Honorable Louis Browne 3027 Sleepy Hollow Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479-1662 832-725-556
Consulate of Barbados
Consulate General of the Republic of Colombia
Consulate of the Kingdom of Belgium
The Honorable Maria J. Londoo 2400 Augusta Drive, Suite 400 Houston, TX 77057-4922 713-979-0844
The Honorable Richard Drake 1912 Buschong Road Houston, TX 77039 281-442-8247
Consulate General of Estonia
The Honorable Jacques Bouchez 2009 Lubbock Street Houston, TX 77007-7621 713-426-3933
3000 Wilcrest Drive, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77042-3365 713-266-0484
Consulate General of Costa Rica
The Honorable Gezahgen Kebede 9301 Southwest Freeway, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77074-1518 713-271-7567
Consulate of Ethiopia
The Honorable Hugh McCain 7101 Breen Drive Houston, TX 77086-3628 281-999-4484
Consulate General of Belize
Consulate General of the Republic of Cote dIvoire
Consulate of the Republic of Finland
The Honorable Marlene McClinton 1302 Waugh Drive, Suite 482 Houston, TX 77019-3908 713-410-0472
The Honorable Ronald Kapche 14 E. Greenway Plaza, Suite 22-R Houston, TX 77046-1400 713-552-1722
Consulate General of the Republic of Bolivia

The Honorable Diana Galindo 16646 Clay Road, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77084 281-463-0017
Consulate General of the Republic of Cyprus
Consulate General of the French Republic
The Honorable William Crassas 1128 River Glyn Drive Houston, TX 77063-1517 713-465-2091
The Honorable Pierre Grandjouan 777 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 600 Houston, TX 77056-3204 713-572-2799
26
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27
Consulate of the Republic of Georgia Consulate General of the Republic of India Consulate of the Republic of Lebanon
The Honorable Lan Bentsen 3040 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1100 Houston, TX 77056-6500 713-585-3233
The Honorable Sanjiv Arora 1990 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 600 Houston, TX 77056-3818 713-626-2148
The Honorable Amin Bohsali 2400 Augusta Drive, Suite 308 Houston, TX 77057-4922 713-268-1640
Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany
The Honorable Rainer Muenzel 1330 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1850 Houston, TX 77056-3031 713-627-7770
Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia

The Honorable Kria Pasaribu 10900 Richmond Avenue Houston, TX 77042-4704 713-785-1691
Consulate of the Republic of Lithuania

The Honorable William Altman 4030 Case Street Houston, TX 77005-3606 713-665-4218
The Honorable Jack Webb 3434 Locke Lane Houston, TX 77027-4139 713-960-8833
Consulate of the Republic of Ghana
The Honorable John Kane 2630 Sutton Court Houston, TX 77027-5245 713-961-5263
Consulate of Ireland
Consulate of Malaysia
The Honorable Mont Hoyt P.O. Box 131026 Houston, TX 77219-1026 713-278-7979
The Honorable Alexandra Theodoropoulou 520 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 450 Houston, TX 77027-9481 713-840-7522
Consulate of the Hellenic Republic
Consulate General of the Republic of Guatemala

The Honorable Julio Perez 3013 Fountainview, Suite 210 Houston, TX 77057-6124 713-953-9531
The Honorable Asher Yarden 24 Greenway Plaza, Suite 1500 Houston, TX 77046-2401 713-627-3780
Consulate General of the State of Israel
Consulate General of the Republic of Malta

The Honorable John Ellis 2602 Commonwealth Street Houston, TX 77006-2609 713-654-7900
Consulate General of the Italian Republic
Consulate of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana

The Honorable Terry Reis P.O. Box 440851 Houston, TX 77244-0851 281-497-4466
The Honorable Cristiano Maggipinto 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 660 Houston, TX 77056-3028 713-850-7520
Consulate General of Mexico

His Excellency Carlos Gonzalez Magallon 4507 San Jacinto Houston, TX 77004-4949 713-271-6800
The Honorable Khalfani Fullerton 6001 Savoy Drive, Suite 509 Houston, TX 77036 713-541-3333
Consulate of Jamaica
The Honorable Renato Pereira 6310 Auden Street Houston, TX 77005-3647 713-661-8275
Consulate of the Republic of Haiti
The Honorable Tsutomu Osawa 909 Fannin, Suite 3000 Houston, TX 77010 713-652-2977
Consulate General of Japan
The Honorable Edward Story P.O. Box 399 Comfort, TX 78013 713-759-1922
Consulate of Mongolia
Consulate of the Republic of Namibia
Consulate General of the Republic of Honduras
The Honorable Lastenia Pineda 6161 Savoy Drive, Suite 625 Houston, TX 77036 713-785-5625
Consulate General of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Pending
The Honorable Jean-Michel Malek 1330 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 2200 Houston, TX 77056 713-965-5119
Consulate General of the Republic of Korea
Consulate General of the Republic of Hungary
The Honorable Phillip Aronoff 11850 Hempstead Road, Suite 230 Houston, TX 77092-6012 713-476-0497
The Honorable Jung Keun Kim 1990 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1250 Houston, TX 77056-3818 713-961-0186
The Honorable Geert Visser 5177 Richmond, Suite 725 Houston, TX 77056 713-622-8000
Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Consulate General of the Kyrgyz Republic
Consulate of the Republic of Iceland

Pending
The Honorable Darrell Luthi 15600 Barkers Landing Road, Suite 1 Houston, TX 77079-2558 281-920-1841
The Honorable Kathleen Kelly P.O. Box 2 Sealy, TX 77474 713-973-8680
Consulate of New Zealand
Consulate General of the Republic of Nicaragua
The Honorable Stephen Payne 5847 San Felipe, Suite 3275 Houston, TX 77057-3000 713-888-0404
Consulate of the Republic of Latvia
The Honorable Hermes Guerrero Szabo 8989 Westheimer Road, Suite 103 Houston, TX 77063-3621 713-789-2762
28
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Consulate General of the Kingdom of Norway
His Excellency Lasse Seim 2777 Allen Parkway, Suite 1185 Houston, TX 77019-2123 713-521-2900
The Honorable Nicholas Florescu 4265 San Felipe, Suite 605 Houston, TX 77027-2920 713-629-1551
Consulate of the Republic of Romania
The Honorable Ayman Midani 1022 Wirt Road, Suite 300 Houston, TX 77055-6884 713-622-8860
Consulate General of the Syrian Arab Republic
The Honorable Mohammad Nadeem 11850 Jones Road Houston, TX 77070-5314 281-890-5532
Consulate General of Pakistan
Consulate General of the Russian Federation

The Honorable Nikolay Babich 1333 West Loop S., Suite 1300 Houston, TX 77027-9116 713-337-3300
Consulate General of the Kingdom of Thailand

The Honorable Charles Foster 600 Travis, Suite 2000 Houston, TX 77002-2911 713-335-3901
Consulate General of the Republic of Panama

The Honorable Alvaro Dutari 24 Greenway Plaza, Suite 1307 Houston, TX 77046-2401 713-622-4451
Consulate General of the Republic of Rwanda

The Honorable Cynthia Perry 70 Terra Bella Drive Manvel, TX 77578 281-489-2067
Consulate of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

The Honorable Pat Younger 2400 Augusta Drive, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77057-4922 713-465-4660
Consulate General of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea

The Honorable Nathan Avery 4900 Woodway Drive, Suite 575 Houston, TX 77056 713-966-2500
Consulate General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Honorable Abdulrahman Alshaya 5718 Westheimer Road, Suite 1500 Houston, TX 77057-5745 713-785-5577
Consulate of Tunisia
The Honorable Alfred J. Boulos 12527 Mossycup Drive Houston, TX 77024-4936 713-935-9427
Consulate of the Republic of Paraguay

The Honorable Gustavo Ayala 4707 Welford Drive Bellaire, TX 77401-5331 713-592-6498
Consulate General of the Republic of Senegal
The Honorable Fatou Sall 9701 Richmond Avenue, Suite 212 Houston, TX 77042-4622 713-706-3300
Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey
Consulate General of the Republic of Peru

The Honorable Carlos Polo 5177 Richmond Avenue, Suite 695 Houston, TX 77056-6707 713-355-9517
Pending
Consulate General of Singapore
The Honorable Ali Findik 1990 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1300 Houston, TX 77056-3818 713-622-5849
Consulate of the Republic of Slovenia
The Honorable Richard Wilkens 2925 Briarpark Drive, Seventh Floor Houston, TX 77042-3720 713-361-4900
The Honorable Gregory Buchai 5433 Westheimer, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77056 281-242-6654
Consulate of Ukraine
Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines

Pending
Consulate General of the Kingdom of Spain
Consulate General of the United Kingdom

The Honorable Paul Lynch 1000 Louisiana, Suite 1900 Houston, TX 77002-5005 713-659-6270
The Honorable Zbigniew Wojciechowski 35 Harbor View Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479-5854 281-565-1507
Consulate of the Republic of Poland
His Excellency Miguel de Mazarambroz 1800 Bering Drive, Suite 660 Houston, TX 77057-3151 713-783-6200
Consulate General of the Kingdom of Sweden
Consulate General of the Republic of Uruguay
The Honorable Jim Westmoreland 4544 Post Oak Place Drive, Suite 350 Houston, TX 77027-3161 713-759-1188
Consulate of the Portuguese Republic
The Honorable Jan Dryselius 2909 Hillcroft Boulevard, Suite 515 Houston, TX 77057-5852 713-953-1417
The Honorable Christopher Ashby 1220 S. Ripple Creek Drive Houston, TX 77057-1765 713-781-3993
The Honorable Yousef Al-Khater 1990 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 810 Houston, TX 77056-3818 713-355-8221
Consulate General of the State of Qatar
The Honorable Margherita Young-Zellweger 11922 Taylorcrest Road Houston, TX 77024 713-467-9887
Consulate General of the Swiss Confederation
Consulate General of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

The Honorable Carlos Osorio 2401 Fountain View Drive, Suite 220 Houston, TX 77057 713-974-0028
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Homes within The Woodlands are constructed and sold by builders not affiliated with The Woodlands Development Company (TWDC) or any of its affiliates, companies or partnerships. Neither TWDC nor any of its affiliated companies or partnerships guarantees or warrants the obligations of, or construction by, such builders. Prices and specifications subject to change. Membership fees may be required. 12/10
All About Houston

Facts and figures about the countrys fourth-largest city.
To really get an accurate picture of the Houston region, you need to have a sense of how truly large it is. The city of Houston encompasses approximately 640 square miles, and the metropolitan area covers more than 10,000 square miles. Houston is located in Harris County, the nations third most populous county. The population of the city of Houston is more than 2 million. Only New York, Los Angeles and Chicago are larger. Houstons metropolitan area has 5.6 million residents, making it the sixth-largest metro area in the country.
cotton exchange building

Constructed in 1884, and first used by the Houston Cotton Exchange and the Board of Trade, this historic building has been maintained and refurbished to contribute to the citys architectural charm.
32
Getting Around
T Highway Nicknames
As in most cities, routes and freeways in Houston are designated by numbers, but natives usually refer to them by nicknames. Here are a few of the major freeways and their nicknames.
Beaumont Highway
U.S. 90
Beltway 8
Sam Houston Parkway/The Beltway
East Freeway
Interstate 10 East
Eastex Freeway
U.S. 59 (north Houston to downtown)
n January 2005 the City of Houston launched a mandatory
Texas 99
Grand Parkway Gulf Freeway
freeway vehicle-towing program called SAFEClear. The program was implemented to address safety and congestion concerns associated with disabled vehicles on freeways inside
Interstate 45 (south of downtown)
the city limits of Houston. Prior to December 1, 2005, only the exclusive contracted SAFEClear tow operators were allowed to provide roadside assistance on these freeways. Currently, two SAFEClear operators are required to provide a free tow to a safe location off the freeway within one mile of the nearest exit to any motorist whose vehicle is not in a moving lane on the freeway and has a flat tire, a mechanical failure, or an empty gas tank. If the vehicle has a flat tire and a good spare, the SAFEClear tow operator will change the tire without charge. If the vehicle is out of gas, it will be towed for free to the nearest gas station, even if that is beyond one mile after the nearest exit. The program also allows motorists to call a roadside assistance service provider of their choice in many situations.
Katy Freeway
Interstate 10 West
The Loop
Loop 610 (in all four directions)
North Freeway
Interstate 45 North
Northwest Freeway
U.S. 290
Texas 288
South Freeway Southwest Freeway
U.S. 59 (Southwest Houston to downtown)
metro light rail

The METRO system serves the entire metropolitan area, with numerous park and ride commuter locations. A new METRORail system connects downtown with the Texas Medical Center and Reliant Stadium.
Public Transit/METRO
The Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO) of Harris County is integral to Houstons transportation system. In 2003, METROs fleet of 1,661 air-conditioned public buses ranked eighth in size nationally. METRO serves an area of 1,285 square miles.
METRO Services
METRO offers express service to downtown and several medical, office and shopping centers; a free computerized one-day matching service for carpool participants; internal bus service in the Texas Medical Center; and METROLift, a curb-to-curb service for passengers with disabilities. Call 713-635-4000 for information, or visit ridemetro.org.
METRORail
METROs 7.5-mile, $324 million light-rail transit project central business district to south of Reliant Park, the sleek, modern rail line follows the Main and Fannin streets corridor, linking downtown, midtown, the Museum District, Hermann Park, the Texas Medical Center and Reliant Stadium.
hugh hargrave
opened for business on January 1, 2004. Running from the
find more detailed information about toll roads, metro buses, metrorail or park & ride @ ridemetro.org and eztagstore.com.
34
all about houston
T Port of Houston
Connecting the region to the world.
Port of Houston is the largest foreign tonnage port in the U.S. and 7th largest container port. PHA handles all types of cargo, with exceptional strength in steel and containerized cargo. The Port of Houston Authority has operated for decades without labor interruption. The Port of Houston Authority serves all of the 8 counties surrounding the Houston Metropolitan Area, and can easily reach Chicago, Denver and Memphis markets.
Airports
The Houston area is served by two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport
Environmental leader
First U.S. Port to achieve ISO14001
(HOU). IAH offers service to more Mexican destinations than any other airport in the country and provides nonstop service to approximately 170 destinations third in the United States behind Atlanta (ATL) and Chicagos OHare (ORD). When it comes to performance and customer service, HOU is among the worlds best, according to the Airports Council International (ACI). Hobby came in at number four in both categories in the 2008 ACI Airport Service Quality Awards. A third site, Ellington Airport (EFD), is a joint-use civil and military airport serving the needs of the U.S. military, NASA and general aviation. Check individual airlines to see which airports serve a particular carrier.
Security leader
First U.S. Port to achieve ISO28000
Catalyst for regional jobs

Over 785,000 Texas jobs impacted during 2006
Economic development
Nearly $118 Billion in 2006
intercontinental light spikes
Created by Jay Baker for the 1990 G7 Summit, the spikes represent the flag of the seven countries and the distance between each spike is relative to the distance of that countrys capital to Houston.
photo courtesy of has
35
T Select Radio Stations
KPVU 91.3
Jazz 936-261-3750
KACC 89.7
Rock 281-756-3897
KBXX 97.9
Adult Contemporary 713-623-2108
KROI 92.1
Christian 713-623-2108
KVST 99.7
Country 936-441-6610
KTSU 90.9
Jazz 713-313-7591
KKRW 93.7
Rock 713-212-8000
KHMX 96.5
KSBJ 89.3
KPFT 90.1
Diverse 713-526-4000
KBME 790
News/Talk (Sports) 713-212-5790
KTBZ 94.5
Rock 713-212-8000
KKHH 95.7
KWWJ 1360
KCOH 1430
News/Talk 713-522-1001
KTRU 91.7
Diverse 713-527-4060
Other Stations in Houston Region

KEYH 850 KJOJ 880 KRTX 980 KNUZ 1090 KQUE 1230 KXYZ 1320 KHCB 1400 KYND 1520 KFTG 88.1 KAFR 88.3 KYBJ 91.1 KNRG 92.3 KTHT 97.1 KSTB 101.5 KJOJ 103.3 KHJK 103.7 KAMA 104.9 KPTY 105.3 KOVE 106.5 KQLC 107.9
KLOL 101.1
Adult Contemporary (Spanish) 713-881-5100
KYOK 1140
KGOW 1560
KBRZ 1460
International 409-233-2655
KMJQ 102.1
KYST 920
Christian (Spanish) 713-771-7995
KIKK 650
News/Talk 713-881-5200
KCHN 1050
International
KODA 99.1
KUHF 88.7
Classical 713-743-0887
KGOL 1180
KILT 610
KRBE 104.1
KGBC 1540
Classic Hits (Oldies) 409-621-5422
KLAT 1010
International (Spanish) 713-407-1415
KNTH 1070
News/Talk 713-260-3600
KMIC 1590
Childrens 713-552-1590
KHPT 106.9
Classic Hits (80s) 713-961-0093
KLTN 102.9
International (Spanish) 713-407-1415
KPRC 950
News/Talk 713-212-8404
KHCB 105.7
KHTC 107.5
Classic Hits (Oldies) 713-963-1200
KLVL 1480
International
KSEV 700
News/Talk 281-558-5738
KJIC 90.5
KILT 100.3
Country 713-881-5100
KREH 900
KSHN 99.9
News/Talk 936-336-5793
KKHT 100.7
KKBQ 92.9
Country 713-961-0093
KTEK 1110
KTRH 740
News/Talk 713-212-8000
miller outdoor theatre

During fair weather months, this outdoor amphitheater in Hermann Park presents free performances that include ballet, musicals, symphony concerts, and the Houston Shakespeare Festival.
36
FROM $ 180s NESTLED BETWEEN SUGAR LAND AND KATY OUTSTANDING FORT BEND ISD MILES OF TREE LINED WALKING TRAILS THE CLUB AT ALIANA - NOW OPEN POOL COMPLEX 24-HOUR FITNESS CENTER TENNIS SAVE WITH LOW TAX RATES
WWW.ALIA N A H O U S T ON.COM OR CAL L US AT: 2 8 1 . 7 2 5 . 6 0 8 2

ALIANA IS LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF WEST BELLFORT & FM 1464
37
T Public Libraries
Acres Homes Neighborhood Library
8501 W. Montgomery Houston, TX 77088 832-393-1700 houstonlibrary.org/branches/acr_home.html
Brazoria Library
620 S. Brooks Street Brazoria, TX 77422 979-798-2372 bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/bra/brazoria.asp
Dixon Neighborhood Library

8002 Hirsch Houston, TX 77016 832-393-1760 houstonlibrary.org/branches/dix_home.html
Albert George Branch Library

9230 Gene Street Needville, TX 77461 979-793-4270 fortbend.lib.tx.us/branches/ag.html
Carnegie Neighborhood Library

1050 Quitman Houston, TX 77009 832-393-1720 houstonlibrary.org/branches/car_home.html
Fifth Ward Neighborhood Library

4014 Market Street Houston, TX 77020 832-393-1770 houstonlibrary.org/branches/fif_home.html
Alvin Library
105 S. GoRoadon Street Alvin, TX 77511 281-388-4300 bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/alv/alvin.asp
Chambers County Library

202 Cummings Street Anahuac, TX 77514 409-267-8263 chambers.lib.tx.us
First Colony Branch Library

2121 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-4444 fortbend.lib.tx.us/branches/fc.html
Atascocita Branch Library

19520 Pinehurst Trails Drive Humble, TX 77346 281-812-2162 hcpl.net/branchinfo/ata/atainfo.htm
Flores Neighborhood Library

110 N. Milby Houston, TX 77003 832-393-1780 houstonlibrary.org/branches/flo_home.html
Clayton Library Center for Geneological Research

5300 Caroline Houston, TX 77004 832-393-2600 5300 houstonlibrary.org/branches/cla_home.html
Austin Memorial Library

220 S. Bonham Avenue Cleveland, TX 77327 281-592-3920 austinmemlib.org
Fondren Library Rice University

6100 Main Street Houston, TX 77005 713-348-5698 library.rice.edu
Clute Library
215 Shanks Street Clute, TX 77531 979-265-4582 bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/clu/clute.asp
Frank Neighborhood Library

6440 W. Bellfort Houston, TX 77035 832-393-2410 houstonlibrary.org/branches/fra_home.html
Baldwin Boettcher Branch Library

22248 Aldine Westfield Road Humble, TX 77338 281-821-1320 hcpl.net/branchinfo/bb/bbinfo.htm
Collier Regional Library

6200 Pinemont Houston, TX 77092 832-393-1740 houstonlibrary.org/branches/col_home.html
Barbara Bush Branch Library

6817 Cypresswood Drive Spring, TX 77379 281-376-4610 hcpl.net/branchinfo/cc/ccinfo.htm
Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library

4100 Montrose Houston, TX 77006 832-393-1800 houstonlibrary.org/branches/mon_home.html
Crosby Branch Library

135 Hare Road Crosby, TX 77532 281-328-3535 hcpl.net/branchinfo/cy/cyinfo.htm
Bellaire City Library

5111 Jessamine Street Bellaire, TX 77401 713-662-8160 ci.bellaire.tx.us/index.asp?nid=10
Friendswood Public Library

416 S. Friendswood Drive Friendswood, TX 77546 281-482-7135 friendswood.lib.tx.us
Deer Park Public Library

3009 Center Street Deer Park, TX 77536 281-478-7208 catalog.library.deerparktx.org/polaris/
Galena Park Branch Library

1500 Keene Street Galena Park, TX 77547 713-450-0982 1500 hcpl.net/branchinfo/gp/gpinfo.htm
Bracewell Neighborhood Library

10115 Kleckley Houston, TX 77075 832-393-2580 houstonlibrary.org/branches/bra_home.html
Dickinson Public Library

1837 FM 517 East Dickinson, TX 77539 281-534-3812 dickinsonpubliclibrary.org
Brazoria County Library

401 E. Cedar Street Angleton, TX 77515 979-864-1519
Genevieve Miller Hitchcock Public Library

8005 Barry Avenue Hitchcock, TX 77563 409-986-7814 hitchcockpubliclibrary.org
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all about houston
George Memorial Library

1001 Golfview Drive Richmond, TX 77469 281-342-4455 fortbend.lib.tx.us
HPL Express Southwest

6400 High Star Houston, TX 77074 832-393-2660 houstonlibrary.org/branches/swc_home.html
Lake Jackson Library

250 Circle Way Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-415-2590 bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/lak/lakejackson.asp
George and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Library

8125 Ashlane Way The Woodlands ,TX 77382 936-442-7728 countylibrary.org/wws.htm
Johnson Neighborhood Library

3517 Reed Road Houston, TX 77051 832-393-2550 houstonlibrary.org/branches/joh_home.html
Lakewood Neighborhood Library

8815 Feland Street Houston, TX 77028 832-393-2530 houstonlibrary.org/branches/lak_home.html
Jones Public Library

307 W. Houston Street Dayton, TX 77535 936-258-7060
Harris County Library Northwest Branch

11355 Regency Green Drive Cypress ,TX 77429 281-890-2665 hcpl.net/branchinfo/nw/nwinfo.htm
La Marque Public Library

1011 Bayou Road La Marque, TX 77568 409-938-9270 lamarquelibrary.org
Jungman Neighborhood Library

5830 Westheimer Houston, TX 77057 832-393-1860 houstonlibrary.org/branches/jun_home.html
La Porte Branch Library

600 S. Broadway La Porte, TX 77571 281-471-4022 hcpl.net/branchinfo/lap/lapinfo.htm
Heights Neighborhood Library

1302 Heights BoulevaRoad Houston, TX 77008 832-393-1810 houstonlibrary.org/branches/hei_home.html
Katherine Tyra Branch Library at Bear Creek

16719 Clay Road Houston, TX 77084 281-550-0885 hcpl.net/branchinfo/bc/bcinfo.htm
Liberty Municipal Library

1710 Sam Houston Avenue Liberty, TX 77575 936-336-8901 cityofliberty.org
Helen Hall Library

100 W. Walker Street League City, TX 77573 281-554-1111 leaguecitylibrary.org
Katy/Fort Bend Branch Library

23111 Cinco Ranch BoulevaRoad Katy, TX 77450 281-395-1311 fortbend.lib.tx.us/branches/cr.html
Henington-Alief Regional Library

7979 S. Kirkwood Houston, TX 77072 832-393-1820 houstonlibrary.org/branches/ali_home.html
Looscan Neighborhood Library

2510 Willowick Houston, TX 77027 832-393-1900 houstonlibrary.org/branches/loo_home.html
Kendall Neighborhood Library Hillendahl Neighborhood Library

2436 Gessner Road Houston, TX 77080 832-393-1940 houstonlibrary.org/branches/hil_home.html
14330 Memorial Drive Houston, TX 77079 832-393-1880 houstonlibrary.org/branches/ken_home.html
Mae S. Bruce Library

13302 Sixth Street Santa Fe, TX 77510 409-925-5540 maebrucelibrary.org
Houston Public Library

500 McKinney Street Houston, TX 77002 832-393-1313 houston.library.org
Kingwood Branch Library

4102 Rustic Woods Drive Kingwood, TX 77345 281-360-6804 hcpl.net/branchinfo/kw/kwinfo.htm
Malcom Purvis Library - Magnolia

510 Melton Street Magnolia, TX 77354 936-442-7704 countylibrary.org/mag.htm
HPL Express Discovery Green

1300 McKinney, R2 Houston, TX 77010 832-393-1375 houstonlibrary.org/branches/dis_home.html
Knox Memorial Library

6730 Railroad Street Wallis, TX 77485 979-478-6813 knoxmemoriallibrary.org
Mamie George Branch Library

320 Dulles Avenue Stafford, TX 77477-4799 281-491-8086 fortbend.lib.tx.us/branches/mg.html
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T Public Libraries
Mancuso Neighborhood Library
6767 Belfort Houston, TX 77087 832-393-1920 houstonlibrary.org/branches/man_home.html
Montgomery County
Memorial Library 104 I-45 North Conroe, TX 77301 936-788-8377 countylibrary.org
Pasadena Public Library

1201 Jeff Ginn Memorial Drive Pasadena, TX 77506 713-477-0276 ppltx.net
Manvel Library
7402 Masters Road Manvel, TX 77578 281-489-7596 bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/man/manvel.asp
Pearland Library
3522 Liberty Drive Pearland, TX 77581 281-485-4876 bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/pea/pearland.asp
Moody Neighborhood Library

9525 Irvington Houston, TX 77076 832-393-1950 houstonlibrary.org/branches/moo_home.html
Pleasantville Neighborhood Library

1520 Gellhorn Houston, TX 77029 832-393-2330 houstonlibrary.org/branches/ple_home.html
Mares Memorial Library

4324 Highway 3 Dickinson, TX 77539 281-534-3812
Moore Memorial Public Library

1701 Ninth Avenue N. Texas City, TX 77590 409-643-5970 texascity-library.org
R.B. Tullis Library

21130 U.S. Highway 59, Suite K New Caney, TX 77357 281-577-8968 countylibrary.org/tul.htm
McCrane - Kashmere GaRoadens Neighborhood Library

5411 PaRoadee Street Houston, TX 77026 832-393-2450 houstonlibrary.org/branches/kas_home.html
Oak Forest Neighborhood Library

1349 W. Forty-third Street Houston, TX 77018 832-393-1960 houstonlibrary.org/branches/oak_home.html
Ring Neighborhood Library

8835 Long Point Houston, TX 77055 832-393-2000 houstonlibrary.org/branches/rin_home.html
McGovern - Stella Link Neighborhood Library

7405 Stella Link Houston, TX 77025 832-393-2630 houstonlibrary.org/branches/ste_home.html
Octavia Fields Branch Library

1503 S. Houston Avenue Humble, TX 77338 281-446-3377 hcpl.net/branchinfo/of/ofinfo.htm
Robinson - Westchase Neighborhood Library

3223 Wilcrest Houston, TX 77042 832-393-2011 houstonlibrary.org/branches/rob_home.html
OQuinn Law Library

12 Law Library Houston, TX 77204 713-743-2000 www.law.uh.edu/libraries/
Melcher Neighborhood Library

7200 Keller Houston, TX 77012 832-393-2480 houstonlibrary.org/branches/mel_home.html
Rosenberg Library
2310 Sealy Avenue Galveston, TX 77550 409-763-8854 rosenberg-library.org
Parent Resource Library

in the Childrens Museum 1500 Binz Houston, TX 77004 713-535-7264 houstonlibrary.org/branches/cmh_home.html
Meyer Neighborhood Library

5005 W. Bellfort, Houston, TX 77035 832-393-1840 houstonlibrary.org/branches/mey_home.html
Scenic Woods Regional Library

10677 Homestead Road Houston, TX 77016 832-393-2030 houstonlibrary.org/branches/sce_home.html
Missouri City Branch Library

1530 Texas Parkway Missouri City, TX 77489 281-499-4100 fortbend.lib.tx.us/branches/mc.html
Park Place Regional Library

8145 Park Place Houston, TX 77017 832-393-1970 houstonlibrary.org/branches/par_home.html
Shepherd Public Library

30 N. Liberty Street Shepherd, TX 77371 936-628-3515 shepherdpubliclibrary.org
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all about houston
Smith Neighborhood Library

3624 Scott Street Houston, TX 77004 832-393-2050 houstonlibrary.org/branches/smi_home.html
Tuttle Neighborhood Library

702 Kress Houston, TX 77020 832-393-2100 houstonlibrary.org/branches/tut_home.html
South Houston Branch Library

607 Avenue A South Houston, TX 77587 713-941-2385 hcpl.net/branchinfo/sho/shoinfo.htm
Vinson Neighborhood Library

3100 W. Fuqua Houston, TX 77045 832-393-2120 houstonlibrary.org/branches/vin_home.html
South Regional Library

2101 Lake Robbins Drive The Woodland,s TX 77380 936-442-7727 countylibrary.org/sou.htm
Waller County Library

2331 Eleventh Street Hempstead, TX 77445-6799 979-826-7658 wallercolibrary.com
Stanaker Neighborhood Library

611 S/Sgt. Macario Garcia Houston, TX 77011 832-393-2080 houstonlibrary.org/branches/sta_home.html
Walter Neighborhood Library

7660 Clarewood Houston, TX 77036 832-393-2500 houstonlibrary.org/branches/wal_home.html
Sterling Municipal Library

Mary Elizabeth Wilbanks Avenue Baytown, TX 77520 281-427-7331 baytownlibrary.org
West Chambers County Library

10616 Eagle Drive Mont Belvieu, TX 77580 281-576-2245 co.chambers.tx.us/offices/library.html
Stimley - Blue Ridge Neighborhood Library

7007 W. Fuqua Houston, TX 77489 832-393-2370 houstonlibrary.org/branches/blu_home.html
West Columbia Branch Library

518 E. Brazos West Columbia, TX 77486 979-345-3394 bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/wes/westcolumbia.asp
Sugar Land Branch Library

550 Eldridge Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-277-8934 fortbend.lib.tx.us/branches/sl.html
West End Library

1646 N. Main Industry, TX 78944 979-357-4434 welibrary.org
Sweeny Library
205 W. Ashley Wilson Road Sweeny, TX 77480 979-548-2567 bcls.lib.tx.us/branches/swe/sweeny.asp
Tarkington Community Library

3032 FM 163 Road Cleveland, TX 77327 281-592-5136 tarkingtoncommunitylibrary.org
Young Neighborhood Library

5260 Griggs Road Houston, TX 77021 832-393-2140 houstonlibrary.org/branches/you_home.html
Tomball Branch Library

701 James Street Tomball, TX 77375 832-559-4200 hcpl.net/branchinfo/tb/tbinfo.htm
41
Houstons Historic Past

The dream of two entrepreneurs becomes a world-class city.
by
Mary M. Midkiff
In 1836, two New York real estate promoters, brothers J. K. and A. C. Allen, decided to start a new town. They paid the sum of $9,428 ($1,000 of it in cash), for 6,642 acres of land situated at the headwaters of navigation on the west bank of Buffalo Bayou. Houston was on its way. They named the community in honor of their hero and good friend, General Sam Houston, whose tattered army of Texians had defeated General Santa Anas Mexican army at San Jacinto, just a few miles away, on April 21 of the same year.
houston in its earliest days

This map represents Houston as it appeared looking southward in 1891.
42
courtesy library of congress
houstons historic past
43
houston international festival

The Houston International Festival highlights a different country each year with a showcase of food, art and music, and draws thousands of attendees to the festivities.
he Allens prophetically advertised, The town of
criticized such wide streets
Houston is located at a point on the river which must ever command the trade of the largest and richest portion of Texas. And they added, When
the rich lands of this country shall be settled, a trade will flow to it, making it, beyond all doubt, the great interior commercial emporium of Texas. It was in the mid-1800s that Houston began to realize the potential economic stimulus of its position as a port. Stephen F. Austins inland colonists needed the benefits of waterborne transport that could make its way to Houston on Buffalo Bayou. In 1837 the Laura became the first steamship to visit Houston, taking three days to travel the fifteen miles from Harrisburg to Houston. A few years later, this uncertain waterway was designated Port of Houston, and by 1844 the large steamboat Constitution made its way to the port. Transportation of all kinds played prime roles in the growth of Houston. The first railroad herethe Buffalo Bayou, Brazos and Colorado Railroadwas organized in 1847. Construction started four years later, and the first twenty miles of railroad in Texas (the second railroad west of the Mississippi River) was inaugurated by the company in 1853. Following it came the Galveston and Red River Railway Company, later renamed the Houston and Texas Central Railway Company. With rail service and the Port of Houston gaining in importance, industry began to come to the fledgling city, bringing an iron foundry and a large warehouse for cotton, hides, and other commodities. At the very beginning, the Allen brothers unknowingly provided their new town one of its greatest advantages for the future. They hired Gail Borden (publisher, surveyor, and originator of condensed milk) and Thomas H. Borden to survey and map the site. Gail Borden laid out the citys streets eighty feet wide, with the principal thoroughfareTexas Avenuea full one hundred feet wide. Early settlers jeered, hooted and
Houston today is known for the advanced technology of its oil industry, and that technology is exported to the world wherever there is exploration and production.
but Bordens plan provided ample width for downtown traffic after the advent of the horseless carriage. Houstons early economy was based not only on trade but also on agriculture and natural resources such as timber. But 1901, with the discovery of oil at Spindletop, marked the beginning of a new era. Wooden derricks began to dot the prairies. When World War I erupted a few years later, it added to the rising momentum of the
motor industry in this country, and TexasHouston especiallybecame strongly identified with the oil industry. Houston retains that identification with oil. In the 1920s and 1930s, oil refineries proliferated along the Houston Ship Channel, taking advantage of inexpensive waterborne shipping of their output. In the 1940s, petrochemical plants began to cluster here as a new industry burgeoned, taking its feedstocks from the refining complex already in place. At the same time, Houston rose to preeminence in offshore drilling and production worldwide. Still later, in the 1960s, Houston began to attract a growing concentration of headquarters operations of major oil companies. Houston today is known for the advanced technology of its oil industry, and that technology is exported to the world wherever there is exploration and production. In the 1950s, Houstons economy took a step toward diversification with the emergence of both primary metals production and metal fabrication as industries exporting from the region. Major U.S. firms brought operations to Houston, lending
44
houstons historic past

their expertise to the production of oil field equipment but also extending Houstons capabilities into new arenas. The 1960s ushered in an evolutionary stage in Houstons economic maturation. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy announced to an enthralled crowd at Rice Stadium that the United States would put a man on the moon by the end of this decade. Within a few years, NASAs Manned Space Centernow Lyndon B. Johnson Space Centerwas a reality in Houston. Development of the famed Texas Medical Center, founded in 1941, attracted brilliant minds, skilled physicians, and innovative researchers. This complex has grown over the years to encompass more than forty institutions that enjoy international reputations for work on the outermost frontiers of medical knowledge, and it is famed for its pioneering work in heart surgery and cancer treatment. With a massive volume of international patients, it now is one of the worlds most important and respected medical complexes. Houston has also built a reputation as a city of culture. Despite its rowdy early years, the pioneer town soon began to bring noted artists to its primitive stages. From these rude beginnings has emerged a cosmopolitan city that supports world-renowned companies in opera, ballet, symphony and repertory theater, all of which tour internationally and enjoy widespread acclaim outside the United States. Houston also boasts a wealth of fine museums, galleries, art collections, and myriad theaters and arts-oriented groups. as the Economic Summit of Industrialized Nations, and again in 1992 when the Republican National Convention was held in Houston. By the year 2000, the U.S. Census found that the Houston metro area had no racial or ethnic majority. The Houston of today reflects the racial and ethnic mix projected for the United States fifty years hence. Physically, the city has spread from the Allen brothers original 6,642 acres to about 640 square miles. From the wide but muddy streets laid out by the Bordens, downtowns thoroughfares have become canyons between towering office buildings. Fanning out from the center are miles and miles of freeways, continually being enlarged and extended and improved. And there is a transit system rated among the nations very best to take you from here to there. In spirit, Houston extends far beyond its 640 square miles. It embraces the world. Ask a Ugandan about heart transplants, and he says simply, Houston. Mention space exploration, and the reply is Houston. Broach the topic of rebuilding the Middle East, and you cant avoid Houston. Whisper energy, and youll always hear Houston. A lifelong Houstonian, Royal Roussel described his city thusly: Houston is a package of interesting contradictions. It is the past whispering into your ear with a soft plantation drawland it is the future shouting at you raucously in a gaggle of tongues. Houston is reverence and tradition touching you gently on the shoulderand it is breakaway in-
houston marathon
This annual 26.2, 13.1 and 3.1 mile run has steadily grown to include more than 18,000 entrants from around the world and 200,000 spectators to cheer them on.
From the turn of the century until the 1980 census, Houstons population at least doubled every twenty years. Much of this growth stemmed from migrationpeople coming to Houston because it was the city in the news, the place where the action was, an area where the unemployment rate stayed down and the job creation rate always climbed. The world saw a new Houston in 1990, when the city hosted the annual meeting of the G7 countries, also known
novation and adventure tugging roughly at your hand. It is a symphony orchestra playing Mendelssohn to a hushed audience in a great hall with the house lights dimmedand it is a bare-chested rock group screaming gross lyrics at a beer-drinking crowd in a sun-seared field. Houston is excitement, promise, confidence and achievement. It is a place that expects success and is prone to accept the unusual as the commonplace. 45
Houston Life
Discover cosmopolitan living on whatever scale you choose.
What makes living in Houston so special? Why does Houston continue to grow faster than other cities? Perhaps its becauseeven though Houston is big, diverse and multifacetedit can be experienced on many different levels, large or small, depending on what youre looking for and how you like to live. One things for sure: theres no shortage of things to do, places to go, or events to experience.
46
MosaicHouston.com
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Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the seller. For correct representations, reference should be made to the Purchase Agreement and to the condominium information Statement and documents required by code Section 82.153 of the Texas Uniform condominium Act to be furnished by the seller to a buyer. * With preferred lender. Purchase price of $159,900, 30 year fixed mortgage, 4.5% interest rate and 3.5% down payment. For qualified applicants. See lender for details.
Into Sports?
The Houston sports scene has something for every fan. NFL football with
One of the nations largest opera companies, Houston Grand Opera is internationally recognized for its innovative repertoire that blends the classics with contemporary works and world premieres. Houston Grand Opera is the only opera company in the nation to win two Grammy awards, a Tony and two Emmys. Da Camera of Houston, founded in 1987, brings together leading American and international musicians. It is nationally acclaimed for provocative chamber music, contemporary
the Houston Texans. NBA basketball with the Houston Rockets. Major League Baseball with the Houston Astros. AHL hockey with the Houston Aeros. MLS soccer with the Houston Dynamo. Plus college football, basketball, baseball, softball, track, tennis and volleyball with the University of Houston Cougars and the Rice University Owls of Conference
Houston is one of a handful of cities in the United States that can boast a major symphony, ballet, opera and theater companies of worldwide acclaim.
USA and the Texas Southern University Tigers of the Southwestern Athletic Conference. And when it comes to high school sports, especially football, no other state does it better than Texas, and no other city offers more games on a given fall weekend than Houston. Houston is one of a handful of cities in the
music and an annual jazz series that showcases renowned performers and emerging artists. Other musical offerings in Houston are performed by such groups as the Houston Friends of Music, the Houston Masterworks Chorus, the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston and the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University.
Enjoy the Performing Arts?
United States that can boast major symphony, ballet, opera and theater companies of worldwide acclaim. In fact, the downtown Theater Districtwhich includes the Alley Theater, Jones Hall, the Hobby Center and the Wortham Center contains more seating capacity than is available in any other city except New York. Thanks to the Society for the Performing Arts, Houstonians routinely have access to some of the worlds best musical, dance, and theatrical talent. Cited by the New York Times as one of the nations best ballet companies, the Houston Ballet is the fourth-largest company in the United States. The ensemble of more than fifty dancers performs around the world and treats Houstons ballet aficionados to more than 100 performances a year in the Wortham Center. An integral part of the local arts scene since 1913, the Houston Symphony performs more than 170 concerts a year at Jones Hall, Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands. Houstons rich theatrical tradition began in 1947 with the
Love the Theater?
opening of the Alley Theatre in, literally, an alley. Today the Alley is one of only a few professional theaters in the country to employ its own resident company of actors. Performances are year-round in the Alleys two-theater complexthe 824seat Hubbard Stage and the 310-seat Neuhaus Stage. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS), one of the largest nonprofit producers of musical theater in the country, has cast more than three hundred musicals in its 41-year history to national acclaim. TUTS stages Broadway classics, world premieres and new works at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts downtownalso home to Broadway in Houston, featuring touring productions of Broadway hits.
48
houston life
Other local theater groups include Stages Repertory Theatre, A. D. Players, Main Street Theater and the Ensemble Theatre, as well as the Rice Players at Rice University and the University of Houstons annual Houston Shakespeare Festival.
Like Museums?
Houstons renowned Museum District lies just south of
downtown near Hermann Park, the Texas Medical Center and Rice University. A dynamic testament to the citys commitment to the visual arts, the district offers something for everyonewith special touring exhibits throughout the year. Eighteen museums are located within the district. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH), opening in 1924 as the first art museum in Texas, features a collection of more than 56,000 works. Bayou Bend, the restored mansion of Houston philanthropist Ima Hogg, houses decorative arts and contains one of the finest collections of American furniture, paintings, glass and textiles from 1620 to 1870. Another home, Rienzi, donated to MFAH by Houston philanthropists Harris Masterson III and his wife, Carroll Sterling Masterson, holds the Southwests most important collection of European decorative art, including ceramics, furniture, paintings and sculpture. The Houston Museum of Natural Science features more than a dozen permanent exhibit areas showcasing space science, Native Americans, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and minerals, seashells, Texas and African wildlife and ancient Egyptian culture. Included within the museum are the Wortham IMAX Theatre, the Cockrell Butterfly Center and the Burke Baker Planetarium. The museums satellite facility, the George Observatory, is located in Brazos Bend State Park, south-west of the city. It houses the largest telescope available for public viewing in the Houston area: a 36-inch, 10-ton research telescope, as well as two smaller telescopes. The Contemporary Arts Museum is a non-collecting museum for visual arts focusing on international, national and regional art of the last forty years. And
Two Locations
fmhouston.com
for more information
49
the Menil Collection displays an immensely significant private collection of nearly 16,000 works dating from the Paleolithic period to present day. Other museums in the district include Cy Twombly Gallery and the Byzantine Fresco Chapel, which are parts of the Menil Collection, as well as the Rothko Chapel, the Childrens Museum of Houston and the Health Museum. Historical museums of interest include the San Jacinto houston grand operamanon lescaut
Since its inception in 1955, Houston Grand Opera has grown into an internationally renowned opera company. The company is known for commissioning and producing new works.
Cultures from all over the world come together in Houston, and the city celebrates this diversity with exciting annual festivals and one dazzling rodeo.
demonstrations,
space
cap-
sules, space suits and the worlds largest collection of moon rocks. Cultures from all over the world come together in Houston, and the city celebrates this diversity with exciting annual festivals and one dazzling rodeo. Every February and March,
the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo comes to town at Museum of History, within the San Jacinto Monument at San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, featuring a wealth of artifacts and documents covering more than four hundred years of early history. Within the Museum District are the Holocaust Museum, which tells the stories of Houston-area survivors of the Holocaust through film, photographs, and exhibits and the Reliant Park. The largest livestock show and the richest regular-season Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association rodeo in the world, the event attracts nearly two million visitors who come to view the animal exhibits, watch the cowboy competitions, and see their favorite music stars performing onstage. The Livestock Show and Rodeo provides mil-lions of dollars in scholarships to area students. Each year a Go Texan Day and a spirited rodeo parade through downtown
Seeking Something Different?
Need a Breath of Fresh Air?

Houston kick off the main events.
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, which preserves the history, tradition and contributions of African American soldiers since 1866. South of Houston in Clear Lake is the Disney-designed Space Center Houston, the visitors center for NASAs Johnson Space Center. It features Texas largest IMAX Theatre, live
Beyond the true Texan culture of the rodeo, various festivals throughout the year celebrate the heritage and traditions of the international community. Among these are the Original Greek Festival, Fiestas Patrias, the Asian American Festival, Festa Italiana and the Houston International Festival.
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houston life
T ACCRA Data for Houston
Cost of Living Comparison

Bargain housing prices and a low tax burden keep living expenses in Houston below those in most other major metropolitan areas.
Housing Cost Comparison

Houston historically has enjoyed relatively low housing costs, even during the boom years of the 70s and early 80s. The first quarter 2009 ACCRA Cost of Living Index shows
The Q1/09 ACCRA Cost of Living Index shows that Houstons overall after-taxes living costs are 11 percent below the nationwide average, largely due to housing costs that are 25 percent below the average. In the context of the 26 participating metropolitan areas with more than 2 million residents (Phoenix did not report), Houstons cost-of-living advantage is even more pronounced. Houstons housing costs are 43 percent below the average for the large metro areas, and its overall costs are 20 percent below the average for this group. Houston has the second lowest housing prices among the 26 large metros. Houstons grocery prices, 18 percent below the major metro average, are the lowest within this group. Its utility costs are 6 percent below the major metro average, its transportation costs are 13 percent below the average, its health care costs are 9 percent below the average, and its costs for miscellaneous goods and services are 5 percent below average.
that Houstons housing costs are 25 percent below the nationwide average and 43 percent below the average for 26 of the 27 metro areas with more than 2 million residents. (Phoenix did not report.) Low housing costs are the main reason Houstons overall living costs are 11 percent below the nationwide average for places of all sizes and 20 percent below the large-metro average. (ACCRAs Housing Index is based 84.11 percent on homeownership and 15.89 percent on rental occupancy.) Even if Houston home values continue to appreciate and the apartment market continues to grow, Houstons housing should remain inexpensive in the context of other major metro areas. Factors contributing to low housing costs include plentiful low-cost land for residential development, minimal weather-related construction delays, minimal delays and costs involved in the permitting and development processes and limited land use regulation.
accra cost of living index: selected metro areas cost of living comparisons
% below/above national average -10.9 -7.7 -5.1 1.9 13.2 16.2 29.5 34.4 51.3 54.4 Houston - Sugar Land - Baytown TX Dallas - Fort Worth - Arlington TX Atlanta - Sandy Springs - Marietta GA Denver - Aurora CO Miami - Fort Lauderdale - Miami Beach FL Seattle - Tacoma - Bellevue WA Boston - Cambridge - Quincy MA - NH Washington - Arlington - Alexandria DC - VA San Francisco - Oakland - Fremont CA New York - Newark - Edison NY - NJ - PA
average of 309 urban areas = 100
% below/above national average -25.2 -24.2 -11.3 7.9 39.6 33.5 43.6 102.1 134.4 135.6
Source: ACCRA Cost of Living Index, First Quarter 2009
house cost index
51
T Park Facts
You ll find more than 350 city parks and more than 200 open spaces covering nearly 39,000 acres in the city of Houston, with many features to enjoy such as:
122 miles of nature and hike-and-bike trails 7 public 18-hole golf courses 9-hole junior golf course
Other annual events include the International Jazz Festival, Art Car Weekend and the Texas Renaissance Festival. Of all the things that make living in Hou-ston so enjoyable, high on the list are the city and county parks. Whether youd like to relax beside a tranquil lake as ducks glide silently by, jog amid an urban forest of tall pines, kayak down a freshwater bayou with glistening skyscrapers as a backdrop, or take the family for a picnic and listen to live music, you can do it in Houstonpractically year-round. According to the Trust for Public Land, in 2007 Houston was ranked third in the nation for total green space among cities of comparable density and fourth in the nation for total land devoted to parks. The watersheds that drain Harris County contain more than eight hundred miles of natural streams and three thousand miles of human-made waterways. Major city parks include the 445-acre Hermann Park nestled between the Museum District, the Texas Medical Center and Rice University. Hermann Park is the home of a Sam Houston statue, the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Lake McGovern, Miller Outdoor Theatre, a miniature train, the Houston Garden Center, an eighteen-hole golf course, and more. Memorial Park, encompassing nearly 1,500 acres, is about four miles west of downtown. It features a three-mile tree-lined jogging trail, eighteen-hole golf course, driving range, an eighteen-court tennis center, fitness center, 33-meter swimming pool, playing fields and picnic areas. The park area includes the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, a 155-acre preserve with more than five miles of quiet, self-guided trails. Discovery Green, Houstons new twelve-acre urban park, is set within the confines
39 swimming pools (6 Olympic-size) 15 water spraygrounds 57 community centers 3 dog parks 3 tennis centers with 60 courts 156 neighborhood tennis courts at 81 sites 174 baseball/softball fields 121 football/soccer/ rugby fields 166 basketball courts 7 skate parks
boating and fishing

The greater Houston area offers a variety of lakes, rivers, and bays that are perfect for boating and fishing. For more information, go to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website at tpwd.state.tx.us.
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T Calendar of Annual Houston Area Events

January
Chevron Houston Marathon 713-957-3453 chevronhoustonmarathon.com The Sounds of Texas Music Series 936- 441-7469 ext. 201 thesoundsoftexas.com Pasadena Strawberry Festival 281-991-9500 strawberryfest.org Texas Renaissance Festival 800-458-3435 texrenfest.com Texian Market Days 281-343-0218 georgeranch.org Ballunar Liftoff Festival 281-488-7676 http://www.ballunarfestival.com
June
Juneteenth Celebration 281-373-3386 houstonparks.org
February
Mardi Gras! Galveston 888-425-4753 mardigrasgalveston.com The Chinese Lunar New Year Festival 713-271-6100 ccchouston.org Houston Auto Show houstonautoshow.com
July
ArtHouston 713-522-9116 arthouston.com BP Power of Freedom Festival 713-522-9723 http://houston.eventguide.com/ Fourth of July at Miller Outdoor Theatre 281-373-3386 houstonparks.org Red, Hot and Blue Festival 281-363-2447 redhot.org Reliant World Series of Dog Shows reliantdogshows.com
November
The Wings Over Houston Airshow 713-266-4492 wingsoverhouston.com Home for the Holidays 800-653-8696 oldtownspringtx.com International Quilt Festival 713-781-6864 quilts.com Lighting of the Doves lightingofthedoves.com Uptown Holiday Lighting 713-621-2504 uptown-houston.com/about/events/upcoming.html
March
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 832-677-1000 hlsr.com The River Oaks Garden Clubs Azalea Trail 713-523-2483 riveroaksgardenclub.org Grand Prix of Houston 713-287-3400 grandprixofhouston.com Japan Festival 713-963-0121 jashouston.org Houston International Festival 713-654-8808 ifest.org WorldFest: Houston International Film Festival 713-956-9955 worldfest.org
August
Houston International Jazz Festival 713-839-7000 jazzeducation.org Houston Shakespeare Festival 713-743-1841 class.uh.edu/theatre/onstage/hsf/
December
Christmas Boat Lane Parade on Clear Lake 281-488-7676 http://www.clearlakearea.com/about/ boatparade.asp Dickens on the Strand 409-765-7834 dickensonthestrand.org The Mayors Official Downtown Houston Holiday Celebration 281-373-3386 houstonparks.org
September
Fiestas Patrias fiestaspatrias.org Fort Bend County Fair 281-342-6171 fbcfa.org
May
Art Car Weekend 713-926-6368 orangeshow.org Asian/Pacific American Heritage Festival capaonline.org/festival.htm Cinco De Mayo Celebration 281-373-3386 houstonparks.org Galveston Historic Homes Tour 409-763-5326 galvestonhistory.org
October
Festa Italiana 713-524-4222 houstonitalianfestival.com Asian American Festival 713-861-8270 Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival 936-539-6009 conroecajuncatfishfestival.com The Komen-Houston Race for the Cure 713-783-9188 komen-houston.org The Original Greek Festival 713-526-5377 greekfestival.org
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A twelve-acre park in downtown Houston, Discovery Green opened to the public in 2008. The long-awaited destination fulfilled a commitment from Mayor Bill White and major private Houston foundations to create and preserve green space within the center of Houston. With its proximity to the George R. Brown Convention Center, Minute Maid Park and Toyota Center, Discovery Green is in an ideal location. Discovery Green is a wonderful attraction for our city, said Mayor White. We are proud of the commitment from the Discovery Green Conservancy in creating this unique destination in the heart of downtown Houston. For a long time to come, Discovery Green will be an asset to Houstonians of all ages and visitors from everywhere. Prominent features visitors can enjoy include a one-acre lake, a childrens playground, interactive water features, an amphitheater stage and slope, small and large dog runs, artworks, the HPL Express (a multipurpose Houston Public Library facility), open lawns and great restaurants (the Grove and the Lake House) operated by Schiller Del Grande Restaurant Group. In addition to surface lot and park perimeter parking, the Convention District Garage, operated by the City of Houston, lies beneath the park. The Andrea and Bill White Promenade forms the heart of the park and offers a 360-degree view of Houstons skyline. Kinder Lake, encompassing more than an acre of the park, features water gardens and a model-boat area, a shallow pool specifically designed to accommodate remote-controlled watercraft operated by parkgoers of all ages. Overlooking the parks live oaks, Schiller Del Grandes restaurant, the Grove, and its rooftop bar , the Treehouse, offer patrons exceptional food, service, and views of the park. The Lake House offers fast, casual, family-friendly food, with views of Kinder Lake and the Jones Lawn. The Performance Space amphitheater hosts a variety of performances, such as music, theater, film and dance, and is oriented toward a sloped lawn for audience seating. When the platform is not in use, it is open to all parkgoers, as space for working, lounging or dining near the Lake House. The Jones Lawn is the parks largest green space, providing ample area for major events or pickup sports. The Brown Foundation Promenade is shaded by hundred-year-old oak trees, the largest of which is the Nancy G. Kinder Oak near Avenida de las Americas, one of four large live oaks that were moved to the park. The John P. McGovern Childrens Playground is carved into an existing, tree-shaded hill, which shields
Discovery Green
youngsters from the surrounding streets and integrates the theme of the major migratory bird flyway over Houston. Individual species are represented in the play sets, and accompanying signs educate visitors. Overlooking the Gateway Fountain and the childrens playground, the Alkek Building houses the parks staff offices, information center and public restrooms. The fountain itself offers a visual entry to the park for visitors approaching from McKinney Street and is an extension of the playground area. Two systems of jets create a variety of water activity atop a gently sloping granite surface, with fourteen-foot-high arching jets serving as gateway landmarks and with smaller jets cycling on and off to invite visitors for a closer look or some fun in the spray. Discovery Green features public art such as new works by artists Margo Sawyer and Doug Hollis. Great care was taken to ensure that the installations would be visually prominent, yet at home in the parks environment. In addition, Jean Dubuffets Monument au Fantme, an iconic sculpture by the world-renowned artist, has been relocated to the park. But Discovery Green is more than a beautiful green space; it is an experience waiting to be enjoyed. The park comes to life with active programming during its spring/summer and fall/ winter seasons. Regularly scheduled music, dance and theater performances as well as films, exercise classes, childrens events and an urban market, constitute the backbone of park programming. Park spaces also may be reserved for private and public events. For more information on Houstons Discovery Green, visit discoverygreen.com or call 713-400-7336. Pine trees in Houston? Newcomers to Houston are pleasantly surprised to discover the abundance of trees in the region. In addition to the extensive green space and parkland, a 2005 report from the Citizens Environmental Coalition (CEC) noted that the region has 663 million trees, with a replacement value of more than $205 billion.
Emerald City
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According to the CEC report, Houston trees store $721 to creating a city that is clean, green and prosperous, a place million worth of carbon, generate $456 million worth of envi- that is aesthetically appealing and offers healthy recreational ronmental benefits each year, and save $131 million in resi- opportunities. The development of scenic enhancements will dential energy costs and avoided power emissions each year. continue to have a direct positive impact on this areas image Trees in Houston remove more than 60,000 tons of air pollu- as a quality place to live and do business, making Houston an tion annually. even better place to live, work, earn and play. To learn more The region contains eight major and distinctly different eco- about the Partnerships outreach efforts, visit houston.org. systems: the Big Thicket, the Sam Houston National Forest, coastal prairie and coastal marshes, the Columbia and Trinity bottomlands, the Galveston Bay estuary system, and the Gulf of Mexico. Over the course of the year, some five hundred bird species can be seen in a ten-county area that inwortham cludes Galveston. Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico are center and george bush important economic, ecological, and recreational resources, monument and outdoor recreation is accessible year-round. This view of the downtown Thanks to the regions rich ecology, many of the colleges, skyline, includes universities and graduate schools in the area offer environmenthe George Bush Monument, a tal studies and research programs. Among these are the bronze statue University of Houstons Environmental Institute of Houston, of the 41st president by the Environmental Law and Justice Center at Texas Southern artist Chas Universitys law school and the Sealy Center for Environmental Fagan. Health and Medicine at the nearby University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Harris County has numerous natural streams and humanmade channels, that are referred to locally as bayous. A local initiative, the Buffalo Bayou Partnershipa nonprofit organization that oversees Buffalo Bayou improvements, preservation and restorationserves as a regional and national role model. The Buffalo Bayou Partnership coordinates the integration of major amenities and restoration projects into the bayou We invite you to join in the warmth, community and spirituality of one greenbelt and seeks ways to increase of Americas leading Reform Jewish synagogues. community involvement through pedesBecome part of our caring congregation. trian, boating and biking amenities; educational, volunteer and recreational activities and tours; permanent and temporary art installations; and other natural and built attractions. Among the partnerships notable successes is the Sabine-to-Bagby Promenade, a 23-acre waterfront park downtown. With dramatic blue and white lighting, hike-andbike trails, lush landscaping and public art, the park has been lauded as one of Houstons best-designed public spaces. Greater Houston Partnership is actively Affordable Membership Opportunities involved with public policy issues that For information contact enhance the ten-county regions quality Pam Kutner, Executive Director pamk@emanuelhouston.org of life and quality of place. It is dedicated
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T Performing Arts Companies & Venues

A. D. Players
Inner Loop: 2710 W. Alabama Houston, TX 77098 713-526-2721 adplayers.org
Broadway Across America Houston

(Broadway in Houston) Performances held at the Hobby Center 713-622-7469 broadwayacrossamerica.com/houston
Dominic Walsh Dance Theater

Performances held at the Hobby Center 713-652-3938 dwdt.org
Alley Theatre
Theater District: 615 Texas Avenue Houston, TX 77002 713-228-9341 alleytheatre.org
Country Playhouse
12802 Queensbury Houston, TX 77024 713-467-4497 countryplayhouse.org
Ensemble Theatre
3535 Main Street Houston, TX 77002 713-520-0055 ensemblehouston.com
Arena Theatre
7326 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77074 713-772-5900 arenahouston.com
Crighton Players
225 Metcalf Conroe, TX 77301 936-539-4090 crightonplayers.org
Express Childrens Theatre

446 Northwest Mall Houston, TX 77092 713-682-5044 expresstheatre.com
cynthia woods mitchell pavilion

This outdoor amphitheater provides the greater Houston region with a variety of performing arts and live entertainment.
Ars Lyrica Houston

4807 San Felipe, Suite 202 Houston, Texas 77056 713-315-2525 arslyricahouston.org
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

2005 Lake Robbins Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-363-3300 woodlandscenter.org
Gente de Teatro
courtesy of ted washington, visual communications, the woodlands
Bayou City Performing Arts

3815 Garrott Street Houston, Texas 77006 713-521-7464 gmch.org
Cypress Creek FACE

(Foundation for the Performing Arts and Community Enrichment) 6823 Cypresswood Drive Spring, Texas 77379 281-440-4850 cypresscreekface.org
Rice University Rice Boulevard, Entrance 20 or 21 Houston, Texas 77251 713-826-0445 gentedeteatro.org
Grand 1894 Opera House

2020 Post Office Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-765-1894 thegrand.com
Bobbindoctrin Puppet Theatre

1601 Vermont, Suite 150 Houston, Texas 77006 713-259-1304 bobbindoctrin.org
Da Camera of Houston
Performances held at the Wortham Center and other venues 713-524-7601 dacamera.com
HITS Theatre
311 W. Eighteenth Street Houston, Texas 77008 713-861-7408 hitstheatre.org
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Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Theater District: 800 Bagby Street Houston, TX 77002 713-315-2400 thehobbycenter.org
Kuumba House Dance Theatre

3001 Cleburne Houston, Texas 77004 713-524-1079 kuumbahousedancetheatre.org
Rice Players
Performances held at at Hamman Hall Rice University, 6100 Main Street Houston, TX 77005 713-348-7529 players.rice.edu/home
Main Street Theater

Inner Loop: 2540 Times Boulevard Houston, TX 77005 713-524-6706 mainstreettheater.com
Houston Ballet
Performances held at the Wortham Center (summer performances at Miller Outdoor Theatre) 713-227-2787 houstonballet.org
Shepherd School of Music

Rice University, 6100 Main Street Houston, TX 77005 713-348-4854 music.rice.edu
Masquerade Theatre
Performances held at Zilka Hall 713-861-7045 masqueradetheatre.com
Houston Childrens Chorus

1015 Holman Houston, TX 77004 713-650-3800 houstonchildren.org
Mercury Baroque
Performances held at the Wortham Center, Cullen Theater 713-533-0080 mercurybaroque.org
Society for the Performing Arts

Performances held at Jones Hall and the Wortham Center 713-227-4772 spahouston.org
Houston Friends of Music

Stude Concert Hall, Alice Pratt Brown Hall, Rice University 6100 Main Street Houston, TX 77005 713-348-5400 houstonfriendsofmusic.org
the wortham theater center

This beautiful facility in the Theater District is the home of the Houston Ballet and the Houston Grand Opera.
Houston Grand Opera

Performances held at the Wortham Center 713-546-0200 houstongrandopera.org
Houston Masterworks Chorus

4119 Montrose, Suite 260 Houston, TX 77006 713-529-8900 houstonmasterworkschorus.org
Miller Outdoor Theatre

Hermann Park: 100 Concert Drive Houston, TX 77030 281-FREE-FUN milleroutdoortheatre.com
Stages Repertory Theatre

3201 Allen Parkway, Suite 101 Houston, TX 77019 713-527-0123 stagestheatre.com
Houston Shakespeare Festival

Performances held at the Miller Outdoor Theatre 713-743-3003 houstonfestivalscompany.com/hsf
Moores School of Music

University of Houston 120 School of Music Building Houston, Texas 77204 713-743-3009 www.music.uh.edu
Talento Bilinge de Houston

333 S. Jensen Drive Houston, TX 77223 713-222-1213 tbhcenter.org
Houston Symphony
615 Louisiana, Suite 102 Houston, TX 77002 713-224-4240 houstonsymphony.org
Houston Theater District

houstontheaterdistrict.org
Multicultural Education and Counseling Through the Arts (MECA)

900 Kane Houston, TX 77007 713-802-9370 meca-houston.org
Theater LaB Houston

1706 Alamo Houston, TX 77007 713-868-7516 theaterlabhouston.com
Jesse H. Jones Hall for the Performing Arts

Theater District: 615 Louisiana Houston, TX 77002 713-227-3974 www.houstontx.gov/joneshall
Musiqa
3201 Allen Parkway, Suite 150 Houston, TX 77019 713-524-5678 musiqahouston.org
Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS)

Performances held at the Hobby Center 713-558-2600 tuts.com
Kingwood Pops Orchestra

804 Russell Palmer Kingwood, TX 77339 281-319-7677 kingwoodpops.org
Opera in the Heights

Lambert Hall, 1703 Heights Boulevard Houston, TX 77008 713-861-5303 operaintheheights.org
Wortham Center
Theater District: 501 Texas Houston, TX 77002 713-237-1439 www.houstontx.gov/worthamcenter greater houston partnership | houston.org
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T Museums & Attractions

Numbers correspond to map on page 60.
20. Custom House

502 Twentieth Street Galveston, TX 77550 409-765-7834 galveston.com/customhouse
1. 1940 Air Terminal Museum

William Hobby Airport 8325 Travelair Street Houston, TX 77061 713-454-1940 1940airterminal.org
10. Bayou Place

500 Texas Avenue Houston, TX 77002 713-227-0957 bayouplace.com
21. Czech Center Museum Houston

4920 San Jacinto Houston, TX 77004 713-528-2060 czechcenter.org
11. Bayou Wildlife Park

5050 FM 517 Alvin, TX 77511 281-337-6376 bayouwildlifepark.com
2. Alkek Velodrome
Cullen Park, 19008 Saums Road Houston, TX 77084 281-646-7790 houstoncycling.org
22. Discovery Green

1500 McKinney Houston, TX 77010 713-400-7336 discoverygreen.com
12. Bishops Palace

1402 Broadway Galveston, TX 77550 409-762-2475 galveston.com/bishopspalace
3. American Cowboy Museum at Taylor - Stevenson Ranch

11822 Almeda Road Houston, TX 77045 713-478-9677 americancowboymuseum.org
23. Downtown Aquarium

410 Bagby Houston, TX 77002 713-223-3474 downtownaquarium.com
13. Blaffer Gallery

Fine Arts Building, University of Houston 4800 Calhoun Road Houston, TX 77004 713-743-9521 blaffergallery.org
24. Dunham Bible Museum

Houston Baptist University 7502 Fondren Houston, TX 77074 281-649-3287 hbu.edu/hbu/dunham_bible_museum.asp
4. Angelika Film Center

510 Texas Avenue Houston, TX 77002 713-225-1470 angelikafilmcenter.com
14. Brazos Bend State Park

21901 FM 762 Needville, TX 77461 979-553-5101 brazosbend.org
5. Art Car Museum

140 Heights Boulevard Houston, TX 77007 713-861-5526 artcarmuseum.com
25. Forbidden Gardens

23500 Franz Road Katy, TX 77493 281-347-8000 forbidden-gardens.com
15. Buffalo Bayou

1113 Vine Street Houston, TX 77002 713-752-0314 buffalobayou.org
6. Armand Bayou Nature Center

8500 Bay Area Boulevard Pasadena, TX 77507 281-474-2551 abnc.org
26. Fort Bend Museum

500 Houston Street Richmond, TX 77469 281-342-6478 fortbendmuseum.org
16. Buffalo Soldiers National Museum

1834 Southmore Blvd. Houston, TX 77004 713-942-8920 buffalosoldiermuseum.com
27. FotoFest
1113 Vine Street, Suite 101 Houston, TX 77002 713-223-5522 fotofest.org
7. Ashton Villa
2328 Broadway Galveston, TX 77550 409-762-3933 galveston.com/ashtonvilla
17. Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum

4011 Yupon Houston, TX 77006 713-521-3990 menil.org/visit/byzantine.php
28. The Galleria

5085 Westheimer Houston, TX 77056 713-622-0663 simon.com/mall/default.aspx?ID=805
8. Battleship Texas
3523 Battleground Road (Texas Highway 134) La Porte, TX 77571 281-479-2431 tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/ battleship_texas
18. Childrens Museum of Houston

1500 Binz Houston, TX 77004 713-522-1138 cmhouston.org
29. Galveston County Historical Museum

2219 Market Street Galveston, TX 77550 409-766-2340 galvestonhistory.org/1921_galveston_county_ historical_museum.asp
9. Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens

1 Westcott Street Houston, TX 77007 713-639-7750 mfah.org/bayoubend
19. Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

5216 Montrose Houston, TX 77006 713-284-8250 camh.org
30. Garten Verein

2704 Avenue O Galveston, TX 77550 409-762-3933 galveston.com/gartenverein
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31. George Ranch Historical Park

10215 FM 762 Richmond, TX 77406 281-343-0218 georgeranch.org
41. Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

4848 Main Street Houston, TX 77002 713-529-4848 crafthouston.org
47. Houston Public Library

500 McKinney Street Houston, TX 77002 832-393-1313 houstonlibrary.org
32. George R. Brown Convention Center

1001 Avenida de las Americas Houston, TX 77002 713-853-8000 houstonconventionctr.com
42. Houston Center for Photography

1441 W. Alabama Houston, TX 77006 713-529-4755 hcponline.org
48. Houston Raceway Park

2525 FM 565 South Baytown, TX 77520 281-383-2666 houstonraceway.com
33. Great Southwest Equestrian Center

2501 S. Mason Road Katy, TX 77450 281-578-7669 gswec.com
34. Gulf Greyhound Park

1000 FM 1764 La Marque, TX 77568 409-986-9500 gulfgreyhound.com
battleship texas
This memorial museum is anchored on Buffalo Bayou near the San Jacinto Monument and Museum.
35. Harwin Drive Shopping District

Harwin Drive between Beltway 8 and Highway 59 Houston, TX 77036
36. Health Museum

1515 Hermann Drive Houston, TX 77004 713-521-1515 thehealthmuseum.org
37. Heritage Society

1100 Bagby Houston, TX 77002 713-655-1912 heritagesociety.org
43. Houston Fire Museum

2403 Milam Houston, TX 77006 713-524-2526 houstonfiremuseum.org
49. Houston Visitors Center

901 Bagby, Suite 100 Houston, TX 77002 713-437-5200 visithoustontexas.com
38. Hermann Park

6201 A Golf Course Drive Houston, TX 77030 713-524-5876 hermannpark.org
44. Houston Maritime Museum

2204 Dorrington Street Houston, TX 77030 713-666-1910 houstonmaritimemuseum.org
50. Houston Zoo

1513 N. MacGregor Houston, TX 77030 713-533-6500 houstonzoo.org
39. Holocaust Museum Houston

5401 Caroline Houston, TX 77004 713-942-8000 hmh.org
45. Houston Motorports Park

11620 N. Lake Houston Parkway Houston, TX 77044 281-458-1972 houstonmotorsportspark.com
51. Inprint
1520 W. Main Street Houston, TX 77006 713-521-2026 inprinthouston.org
40. Houston Arboretum and Nature Center

4501 Woodway Drive Houston, TX 77024 713-681-8433 houstonarboretum.org
52. John C. Freeman Weather Museum

5104 Caroline Houston, TX 77004 713-529-3076 wxresearch.org
46. Houston Museum of Natural Science

One Hermann Circle Drive Houston, TX 77030 713-639-4629 hmns.org
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T Museums & Attractions

72. Railroad Museum

123 Twenty-fifth Street Galveston, TX 77550 409-765-5700 galvestonrrmuseum.com
53. Jung Center of Houston

5200 Montrose Houston, TX 77006 713-524-8096 cgjunghouston.org
63. Museum of American Architecture and Decorative Arts

Houston Baptist University 7502 Fondren Houston, TX 77074 281-649-3997 hbu.edu/hbu/Museum_of_American_ Architecture_and_Decorative_Art.asp
73. Reliant Stadium

One Reliant Park Houston, TX 77054 832-667-1400 reliantpark.com/reliantstadium
54. Kemah Boardwalk

215 Kipp Avenue Kemah, TX 77565 281-334-9880 kemahboardwalk.com
74. Rice University Art Gallery

6100 Main Street Houston, TX 77005 713-348-6069 ricegallery.org
64. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

1001 Bissonnet Houston, TX 77005 713-639-7300 mfah.org
55. Lawndale Art Center

4912 Main Street Houston, TX 77002 713-528-5858 lawndaleartcenter.org
75. Rienzi
1406 Kirby Drive Houston, TX 77019 713-639-7800 mfah.org/rienzi
65. Museum of Printing History

1324 W. Clay Street Houston, TX 77019 713-522-4652 printingmuseum.org
56. Lone Star Flight Museum

2002 Terminal Drive Galveston, TX 77554 409-740-7722 lonestarflight.org
76. Rothko Chapel

1409 Sul Ross Houston, TX 77006 713-524-9839 rothkochapel.org
66. National Museum of Funeral History

415 Barren Springs Drive Houston, TX 77090 281-876-3063 nmfh.org
57. Memorial Park

6501 Memorial Drive Houston, TX 77007 713-863-8403 memorialparkconservancy.org
77. Russian Cultural Center Our Texas

2337 Bissonnet Houston, TX 77005 713-395-3301 ourtx.org
67. New World Museum

5230 Center Street Houston, TX 77007 713-426-4544 newworldmuseum.org
58. Menil Collection

1515 Sul Ross Houston, TX 77006 713-525-9400 menil.org
78. St. Joseph Church

2202 Avenue K Galveston, TX 77550 409-762-3933 galveston.com/stjosephchurch
59. Michel B. Menard Home

1604 Thirty-third Street Galveston, TX 77550 409-762-3933 galveston.com/menard
68. Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Museum

Pier 19 Galveston, TX 77550 409-766-STAR oceanstaroec.com
79. Sam Houston Race Park

7575 N. Sam Houston Parkway West Houston, TX 77064 281-807-8700 shrp.com
60. Minute Maid Park

501 Crawford Houston, TX 77002 713-259-8000 astros.mlb.com
69. Old Town Spring

403 Main Street Spring, TX 77373 281-353-9310 oldtownspring.com
80. San Jacinto Monument and Museum of History

One Monument Circle La Porte, TX 77571 281-479-2421 sanjacinto-museum.org
61. Moody Gardens

One Hope Boulevard Galveston, TX 77554 800-582-4673 moodygardens.com
70. Orange Show Center for Visionary Art

2402 Munger Houston, TX 77023 713-926-6368 orangeshow.org
81. Schlitterbahn Galveston Island

2026 Lockheed Street Galveston, TX 77554 409-770-WAVE schlitterbahn.com/gal
62. Moody Mansion Museum

2618 Broadway Galveston, TX 77550 409-762-7668 galveston.com/moodymansion
71. Project Row Houses

2521 Holman Houston, TX 77004 713-526-7662 projectrowhouses.org
82. Sea Center Texas

300 Medical Drive Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-292-0100 tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/visitorcenters/seacenter
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83. Seawolf Park

Seawolf Parkway Galveston, TX 77550 409-797-5114 galveston.com/seawolfpark
88. Station Museum of Contemporary Art

1502 Alabama Houston, TX 77004 713-529-6900 stationmuseum.com
93. Uptown Houston

1980 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1580 Houston, TX 77056 713-621-2011 uptown-houston.com
84. Sheldon Lake State Park and Environmental Learning Center

15315 Beaumont Highway (Business 90) at Park Road 138 Houston, TX 77049 281-456-2800 tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/ sheldon_lake
89. The Strand

2200 Strand Galveston, TX 77550 888-425-4753 galveston.com/downtowntour
94. Uptown Park

1400 Post Oak Blvd. Houston, TX 77056 713-850-1400 uptownparkhouston.com
90. Texas Seaport Museum/Elissa

Pier 21 Galveston, TX 77550 409-763-1877 galveston.com/texasseaportmuseum
95. Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site

1702 N. Thirteenth Street West Columbia, TX 77486 979-345-4656 www.thc.state.tx.us/hsites/hs_varner.aspx
85. Shrine of the Black Madonna Bookstore and Cultural Center

5309 MLK Boulevard Houston, TX 77021 713-645-1071 shrinebookstore.com
91. Toyota Center

1510 Polk Houston, TX 77002 713-758-7200 houstontoyotacenter.com
96. Water Wall

Williams Tower, 2800 Post Oak Boulevard Houston, TX 77056 713-850-8841
86. Space Center Houston

1601 NASA Parkway Houston, TX 77058 281-244-2100 spacecenter.org
92. Traders Village

7979 N. Eldridge Road Houston, TX 77041 281-890-5500 tradersvillage.com/en/houston
97. The Woodlands Town Center

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600 The Woodlands, TX 77380 281-363-2447 thewoodlandscvb.com
87. SplashTown
21300 I-45 N. Spring, TX 77383 281-355-3300 splashtownpark.com
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TO
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80 79
45 93
67 97 28 40 9 57 17 65
6 75 27 47 4
23 15 49 22 43 10 42 41 64 19 16 18 60 92 32 37
85 81
TO
8 48
95
94
77 46 44
58 21 36 38
51
39
71 13 70
86 63 24 35 73
50 76
52 89
53
55
74
TO
7 54 72
12 56 78
20 59 82
29 61 84
30 62 90
34 68 91 87
TO
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63
T Golf Courses
Evaluated by golfers who rank courses on golfdigest.com. One star indicates basic golf and five stars indicate superb golf.
Moody Gardens Golf Course

1700 Sydnor Lane Galveston, TX 77554-6306 409-683-4653 18 holes - Public
Alvin Golf and Country Club

785 County Road 539 Alvin, TX 77511 281-331-4541 9 holes - Public
River Plantation Country Club

550 Country Club Drive Conroe, TX 77302-3036 936-321-5833 27 holes - Private
Fox Creek Golf Club

15120 FM 359 Hempstead, TX 77445-3424 866-290-3997 18 holes - Public HHH
Hillcrest Golf Club

3401 Fairway Drive Alvin, TX 77511-4903 281-331-3505 9 holes - Public HHH
The Village Golf Club

73 Greenbriar Drive Conroe, TX 77304-1104 936-856-5531 27 holes - Public HHHHH
Chambers County Golf Course

1 Pinchback Drive Anahuac, TX 77514 409-267-8235 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Legendary Oaks Golf Course

43279 Urban Road Hempstead, TX 77445-9135 866-821-4653 18 holes - Public
Wedgewood Golf Course

5454 Highway 105 West Conroe, TX 77304-1352 936-441-4653 18 holes - Public HHHH1/2
Houston Oaks
22602 Hegar Road Hockley, TX 77447-9751 713-888-0000 18 holes - Public HHH
Evergreen Point Golf Course

1530 Evergreen Road Baytown, TX 77523-7633 281-837-9000 18 holes - Public HHHH
Indian Shores Recreation Association

2141 White Feather Trail Crosby, TX 77532-3274 281-324-2592 9 holes - Public HHH
Bay Oaks Country Club

14545 Bay Oaks Boulevard Houston, TX 77059-4412 281-488-9753 18 holes - Private HHH1/2
Goose Creek Country Club

5000 Country Club Drive Baytown, TX 77521-3099 281-424-5565 18 holes - Private
Newport Golf Club and Conference Center

16401 Country Club Drive Crosby, TX 77532-5048 281-328-3576 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Bellville Golf and Recreation Club

2426 Highway 36 North Bellville, TX 77418-4211 979-865-9058 9 holes - Public
Bear Creek Golf World

16001 Clay Road Houston, TX 77084-4201 281-859-8188 54 holes - Public HHH
BlackHorse Golf Club

12205 Fry Road Cypress, TX 77433-3315 281-304-1747 36 holes - Public - Awards HHH
Kirbywood Golf Club

904 Kirbywood Drive Cleveland, TX 77327-4358 281-593-3303 9 holes - Public
BraeBurn Country Club

8101 Bissonnet Houston, TX 77074-3999 713-774-2586 18 holes - Private HHH
Conroe Country Club

3051 N. Loop 336 West Conroe, TX 77304-3626 936-756-5222 9 holes - Private HHHH
Weston Lakes Country Club

32611 FM 1093 Fulshear, TX 77441-3901 281-346-1967 18 holes - Private HHH
Brock Park Golf Course

8201 John Ralston Road Houston, TX 77044-2117 281-458-1350 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
The Links at West Fork

1 Golfridge Drive Conroe, TX 77304-1111 936-441-6193 18 holes - Public HHHH
Galveston Country Club

14228 Stewart Road Galveston, TX 77554-7710 409-737-9800 18 holes - Private HH1/2
Champions Golf Club

13722 Champions Drive Houston, TX 77069-1330 281-444-6449 36 holes - Private - Awards HHHH
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Classic 3 Golf Course

6224 Theall Road Houston, TX 77066-1312 281-440-1308 9 holes - Public HHHH
Jersey Meadow Golf Course

8502 Rio Grande Street Houston, TX 77040-1100 713-896-0900 27 holes - Public HH1/2
River Oaks Country Club

1600 River Oaks Boulevard Houston, TX 77019-1299 713-529-4321 18 holes - Private - Awards HHHHH
Clear Creek Golf Club

3902 Fellows Road Houston, TX 77047-6702 713-738-8000 18 holes - Public HH1/2
Lakeside Country Club

100 Wilcrest Drive Houston, TX 77042-1099 281-497-2222 18 holes - Private
River Terrace Golf Course

16777 Wallisville Road Houston, TX 77049 281-452-2183 18 holes - Public
The First Tee Junior Golf Facility at FM Law Park

8400 Mykawa Road Houston, TX 77048-1309 713-264-2100 9 holes - Public
Lochinvar Golf Club

2000 Farrell Road Houston, TX 77073-4099 281-821-0220 18 holes - Private HHHH
Royal Oaks Country Club

2910 Royal Oaks Club Drive Houston, TX 77082-6855 713-914-0014 18 holes - Private HHHH1/2
Glenbrook Golf Course

8205 N, Bayou Drive Houston, TX 77017-3799 713-649-8089 18 holes - Public HH1/2
Melrose Golf Course

401 Canino Road Houston, TX 77076-1140 281-931-4666 18 holes - Public HH
Sharpstown Park Golf Course

6600 Harbor Town Drive Houston, TX 77036-4052 713-988-2099 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Gus Wortham Park Golf Course

7000 Capitol Street Houston, TX 77011-4644 713-928-4260 18 holes - Public HHH
Memorial Park Golf Course

1001 E. Memorial Loop Houston, TX 77007-2049 713-862-4033 18 holes - Public - Awards HHHH
Sugar Hill Golf Course

12000 Bissonnet Houston, TX 77099-1412 281-561-5252 18 holes - Public HH
Hearthstone Country Club

7615 Ameswood Road Houston, TX 77095-3301 281-463-2204 27 holes - Private HHH
Mulligans Golf
11010 Jones Road Houston, TX 77070-6302 281-890-6026 9 holes - Public HHH
Texaco Golf Club

12800 Texaco Road Houston, TX 77013-4221 713-453-7501 18 holes - Public
Westwood Golf Club

8888 Country Creek Drive Houston, TX 77036-7216 713-774-2521 18 holes - Private HHHH1/2
Hermann Park Golf Course

2155 N. MacGregor Drive Houston, TX 77030-1717 713-526-0077 18 holes - Public HHH
Northgate Country Club

17110 Northgate Forest Drive Houston, TX 77068-1445 281-440-1223 27 holes - Private
Heron Lakes Golf Course

7900 N. Sam Houston Parkway W. Houston, TX 77064-3425 281-807-0207 18 holes - Public HH
Pasadena Municipal Golf Course

1000 Duffer Lane Houston, TX 77034-4139 281-481-0834 18 holes - Public HHH
Wildcat Golf Club

12000 Almeda Road Houston, TX 77045-2601 713-413-3400 36 holes - Public HHH1/2
World Houston Golf Course

4000 Greens Road Houston, TX 77032-2300 281-449-8384 18 holes - Public
Houston Country Club

1 Potomac Drive Houston, TX 77057-1299 713-465-8381 18 holes - Private HHHHH
Pine Crest Golf Club

3080 Gessner Drive Houston, TX 77080-2508 713-462-4914 18 holes - Public HH1/2
Sanctuary Golf Resort

27350 Afton Way Huffman, TX 77336-3796 281-324-1842 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Houston National Golf Club

16500 Houston National Boulevard Houston, TX 77095-6908 281-304-1400 36 holes - Public HHHH
Pine Forest Country Club

18003 Clay Road Houston, TX 77084-3999 281-463-1234 27 holes - Private
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T Golf Courses
Atascocita Country Club at Kingwood
20114 Pinehurst Drive Humble, TX 77346-1743 281-852-8111 27 holes - Private
Golf Club at Cinco Ranch

23030 Cinco Ranch Boulevard Katy, TX 77450-5997 281-395-4653 18 holes - Public HHHH
The Deerwood Club of Kingwood

1717 Forest Garden Drive Kingwood, TX 77345-1600 281-360-1065 18 holes - Private - Awards
Humble Oil Patch Golf Center

2107 N. Houston Avenue Humble, TX 77338-2556 281-548-7273 9 holes - Public H1/2
Green Meadows Golf Club

6450 Franz Road Katy, TX77493-1829 281-391-3670 18 holes - Public HH
Kingwood Country Club

1700 Lake Kingwood Trail Kingwood, TX 77339-3796 281-358-2171 72 holes - Private HHHH
gleannloch pines golf club

This beautiful course is located at the former site of an Arabian horse farm and captures the charm of its predecessor in the three nine hole coursesthe Loch, the Paddock and the Gleann nines.
Redstone Golf Club

5860 Wilson Road Humble, TX 77396-2488 281-454-6590 36 holes - Private - Awards HHHH
Meadowbrook Farms Golf Club

23230 Meadowbrook Farms Club Dr. Katy, TX 77494-6580 281-693-4653 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Kingwood Cove Golf Club

805 Hamblen Road Kingwood, TX 77339-4006 281-358-1155 18 holes - Public HHH
Tour 18 Houston
3102 FM 1960 East Humble, TX 77338 281-540-1818 18 holes - Public - Awards HHHH
The Club at Falcon Point

24503 Falcon Point Drive Katy, TX 77494-1399 281-392-7888 18 holes - Private HHHH
Bay Forest Golf Course

201 Bay Forest Drive La Porte, TX 77571-6311 281-471-4653 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Walden on Lake Houston

18100 Walden Forest Drive Humble, TX 77346-6099 281-852-3551 18 holes - Private
Willow Fork Country Club

21055 Westheimer Katy, TX 77450-5990 281-579-6262 18 holes - Private HHH1/2
Canongate at Magnolia Creek Golf Course

1501 Bay Area Boulevard League City, TX 77573-3169 281-557-0555 27 holes - Private HHHH1/2
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South Shore Harbour Country Club

4300 S. Shore Boulevard League City, TX 77573-5808 281-334-0525 27 holes - Private HHHH
Eagle Pointe Golf Club

12440 Eagle Pointe Drive Mont Belvieu, TX 77580 281-385-6666 18 holes - Public HHHH
Magnolia Ridge Country Club

100 Country Club Lane Liberty, TX 77575 936-336-3551 9 holes - Public
April Sound Golf Course

1000 April Sound Boulevard Montgomery, TX 77356-5890 936-588-1101 27 holes - Private
Canongate at Lake Windcrest Golf Club

10941 Clubhouse Circle Magnolia, TX 77354-6852 281-259-2279 18 holes - Public HHHH
Bentwater Country Club

800 Bentwater Drive Montgomery, TX 77356-8256 936-597-6224 54 holes - Private
Blaketree National Golf Club

4430 S. FM 1486 Montgomery, TX 77316-1908 936-449-4907 18 holes - Public HHHH
High Meadow Ranch Golf Club

37300 Golf Club Trail Magnolia, TX 77355-2817 281-356-7700 18 holes - Public HHHH
La Torretta Del Lago Resort

500 La Costa Drive Montgomery, TX 77356 936-448-4400 18 holes - Private H
Quail Valley Golf Course

2880 La Quinta Drive Missouri City, TX 77459-3147 281-437-8277 45 holes - Public H1/2
The Players Course at Grand Lake Estates

18411 Gary Player Road Montgomery, TX 77316 936-447-4653 18 holes - Private HHHH
Sienna Plantation Golf Club

1 Waters Lake Boulevard Missouri City, TX 77459-6553 281-778-4653 18 holes - Public HHHH
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T Golf Courses
Walden Golf and Country Club
13101 Walden Road Montgomery, TX 77356-5385 936-448-4668 18 holes - Private - Global Top 500 HHHHH 3123 Flower Field Lane Pearland, TX 77584-4001 713-436-1533 18 holes - Private HH1/2
Country Place Golf Club
3000 Plantation Drive Richmond, TX 77406-1255 281-342-9940 27 holes - Private HHHHH
Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club
Woodforest Golf Club at Fish Creek

6201 Mulligan Drive Montgomery, TX 77316-6857 936-588-8800 27 holes - Public HHHH1/2
Golfcrest Country Club

2509 Country Club Drive Pearland, TX 77581-5030 281-485-4593 18 holes - Private
11333 FM 2759 Richmond, TX 77469 281-343-9995 18 holes - Public HHH
River Pointe Golf Club
4100 Shadow Hawk Drive Richmond, TX 77407-9223 281-340-7205 18 holes - Private - Awards
Shadow Hawk Golf Club
Park Road 38 San Felipe, TX 77473 979-885-2811 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Stephen F. Austin Country Club
3133 Brazos Oak Lane Sealy, TX 77474-7342 979-885-3333 18 holes - Public HHHH1/2
River Ridge Golf Club
Augusta Pines Golf Club

18 Augusta Pines Drive Spring, TX 77389-3592 832-381-1000 18 holes - Public HHHH1/2
1750 N. Falls Drive New Ulm, TX 78950-2301 800-992-3930 18 holes - Public HHHH1/2
The Falls Resort and Club
2901 Clubhouse Drive Pearland, TX 77584-4841 713-436-9999 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Southwyck Golf Club
21602 Cypresswood Drive Spring, TX 77373-8700 281-821-6300 54 holes - Public - Awards HHH1/2
Cypresswood Golf Club
Baywood Country Club

5500 Genoa Red Bluff Road Pasadena, TX 77505-5707 281-487-0050 18 holes - Public
9502 Bayport Boulevard Pasadena, TX 77507-1402 281-474-6402 9 holes - Private
Chemlake Golf Club
20700 Mills Branch Drive Porter, TX 77365-6325 281-354-4653 18 holes - Public HH1/2
Oakhurst Golf Club
19393 Champion Forest Drive Spring, TX 77379-8519 281-225-1200 27 holes - Public HHHH1/2
Gleannloch Pines Golf Club
8060 Spencer Highway Pasadena, TX 77505-5903 281-476-1880 9 holes - Public HHH1/2
San Jacinto College Golf Course
2627 FM 762 Richmond, TX 77469 281-342-8368 18 holes - Private H1/2
Fort Bend Country Club
9415 Cypresswood Drive Spring, TX 77379-6999 281-370-6370 18 holes - Private HHHH
Raveneaux Country Club
Houstonian Golf and Country Club

12600 Houstonian Drive Richmond, TX 77407-9221 281-494-4246 18 holes - Private
25110 Gosling Road Spring, TX 77389-3225 877-742-3020 9 holes - Public HH1/2
Spring Valley Golf Club
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24525 Northcrest Drive Spring, TX 77389-4917 281-376-4061 18 holes - Private HHHHH
Willow Creek Golf Club
4400 Palm Royale Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479-2599 281-980-4653 36 holes - Private HHH
Sweetwater Country Club
The Woodlands Country Club

Palmer Course 100 Grand Fairway The Woodlands, TX 77381-5154 281-863-1440 27 holes - Private
Windrose Golf Club

6235 Pinelakes Boulevard Spring, TX 77379-2599 281-370-8900 18 holes - Public HHHH1/2
Texas City, TX 77590 409-643-5850 18 holes - Public HH1/2
Bayou Golf Club 2800 Ted Dudley Drive
The Woodlands Country Club Tournament Course

1730 S. Millbend Drive The Woodlands, TX 77380-1474 281-863-1540 18 holes - Private
6767 Greatwood Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479-6398 888-343-4001 18 holes - Public HHH1/2
Greatwood Golf Club
Canongate at The Woodlands

2311 N. Millbend Drive The Woodlands, TX 77380-1360 800-433-2624 36 holes - Private HHHHH
Tomball Country Club

22303 Walden Way Tomball, TX 77375-6985 281-351-5102 18 holes - Private
1214 Dulles Avenue Sugar Land, TX 77478-4099 281-491-2500 18 holes - Private HHHH1/2
Riverbend Country Club
Grand Lake Estates Players Course
Waller Country Club Estates

15357 Penick Road Waller, TX 77484-9038 936-931-3335 9 holes - Public
Sugar Creek Country Club

2400 Country Club Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77478-3618 281-494-9131 27 holes - Private
8900 Sterling Ridge Drive The Woodlands, TX 77382-2748 281-863-1490 18 holes - Public - Global Top 500 holes
The Club at Carlton Woods

1 Carlton Woods Drive The Woodlands, TX 77382-2563 281-863-5820 36 holes - Public - Awards
Texas National Golf Club

8720 Club House Drive Willis, TX 77378-5988 936-856-4233 18 holes - Public HHHH
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At Home in Houston
A few of the basics about relocating here.
In Texas, residential consumers can shop around for the electrical service provider of their choice. The largest providers are Reliant Energy and TXU Energy. The Texas Public Utility Commission provides information about choosing an electric provider, rate comparisons and much more at powertochoose.org, and the City of Houston offers an informative website that can help with shopping for electrical service providers in the region at houstonconsumerchoice.com/home.asp.
The River Oaks Movie Theater is nestled into the River Oaks shopping center, and harkens back to the memories of small town theaters.
river oaks theater
70
n Houston, natural gas is supplied by CenterPoint Energy. For more
information and to set up service, call 713-659-2111 or visit its website at centerpointenergy.com. Water and sewer service for residents of the City of Houston is
T Establishing Utility Service

Houston-area utilities generally have the same requirements as utility service providers in the city for establishing service. Expect to supply the following information.
provided by the City of Houston Public Works and Engineering Department and is available by calling 713-371-1400. Other incorporated municipalities in the Houston area provide their own water and sewer services to their residents. Contact your local governing body for full information.
1 2 3 4 5 6
Address of former utility company and letter of credit Name and identification information of person with whom you live Place of employment Drivers license number Social security number Home phone number and daytime phone number where you may be reached
For electrical service, ask about average billing plans, online payment options, and the hours of customer service. Also, inquire if a contract is required and for how long, what happens if your power goes out, and whether there are fees for switching to another electric company or canceling your service.
Cable Services
The primary cable service provider in Houston is Comcast, which offers
like to obtain a Texas drivers license will need to provide proof of Texas registration, proof of liability insurance, Social Security number and out-of-state license. The only examination required is a vision test. If the out-of-state license has expired, a new resident must take a written examination, a behind-the-wheel examination, and a vision test. Those who do not own a vehicle do not have to show proof of insurance but are required to complete an affidavit of non-ownership. At the time of application, new residents are required to surrender their valid or expired out-of-state drivers license. All original applicants for a drivers license or identification certificate must present proof of identity satisfactory to the Texas Department of Public Safety, as well as take the written, driving and vision tests. For information about documents that may be presented as acceptable proof of identity, go to the Texas Department of Public Safetys website at www.txdps. state.tx.us. First-time foreign applicants must prove legal U.S. residency before obtaining a Texas drivers license. A beginning driver of age fifteen or older can apply for an instruction permit, which enables the holder of the permit to drive with a licensed driver who is eighteen years of age or
high-speed Internet, cable TV and phone service. Another option is AT&T U-verse, with digital TV, Internet and phone options. Satellite dish services are available in Houston through DISH Network and DIRECTV. The primary telephone service provider is AT&T, but there are
Telephone Services
more than three dozen local service providers, as well as most major brands of cell phone service providers. The City of Houston and the immediate surrounding area have three area codes: 281, 713, and 832. When calling from one of these area codes, 10-digit dialing is required for local calls. Three other area codes409, 936, and 979are part of the larger ten-county Houston metropolitan area. New residents must obtain a Texas drivers license within
Texas Drivers Licenses
thirty days of establishing Texas residency. New residents with a valid out-of-state drivers license who own a vehicle and would
72
The Greenbriar
Our mission is to build a community whose residential services are preferred above all others by putting our residents rst and exceeding their expectations everyday.
7777 Greenbriar Houston, TX 77030 713.797.0707 www.greenbriar-apartments.com greenbriar@rockwellmgmt.com
The Greenbriar
older in the front seat. To obtain an instruction permit, a beginning driver must pass the written portion of the driving test, and those under the age of eighteen must also take the classroom portion of an approved drivers education course. For more information and locations of Texas drivers license offices, visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website at www.txdps.state.tx.us. Newcomers must register vehicles in Texas within
Texas has a mandatory drivers liability insurance law. All drivers are required to carry proof of liability insurance in their vehicles at all times. The minimum drinking age in Texas is 21. Drivers are prohibited
State Liquor Laws
from consuming alcoholic beverages while operating a vehicle. Driving while intoxicated (DWI) laws are strictly enforced and can carry a sentence of jail time, even for firsttime offenders. Texas also has a driving under the influence (DUI) law that penalizes those who are under 21 and have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system when driving a motor vehicle. In Texas, all cats and dogs must be vaccinated
Auto Registration/Tags
thirty days of establishing residency. In Harris County, registration is done with the Harris County tax assessor-collector. Call 713-368-2000 for full information, office locations and associated fees. Residents of other counties must register at
Pet Licensing/Leash Laws

new in town
right: Show your Texas pride with one of dozens of license plate designs available. below right: Enjoy a day with your canine friend at one of the regions many dog parks.
against rabies by the time they are four months old and must receive a booster one year after the initial vaccination. After the first two vaccinations, cats and dogs can be vaccinated at either one-year or three-year intervals. Additionally, cats and dogs in Houston must be licensed. Any veterinarian can vaccinate your pet and provide license tags. The City of Houston Bureau of Animal Regulation and Control (BARC) may impound any dog or cat not restrained on a leash or without proper tags. For more information, contact BARC at 713-229-7300. In Harris County outside the Houston city limits, contact the Harris County Veterinary Public Health Division at 281-999-3191 or countypets.com.
their county tax office. The following information is necessary to register a vehicle: an out-ofstate title or registration; a sales or use tax affidavit; a current Texas drivers license; a Vehicle Identification Certificate (Form VI30-A), indicating the vehicle has passed a safety inspection; a current odometer reading;
Cats and dogs in Houston must be licensed. Any veterinarian can vaccinate your pet and provide license tags.
Pet owners are also required by law to pick up after their pets in public areas.
customs documentation if from a foreign country; and proof of insurance. Members of the U.S. armed forces and nonresident students attending accredited Texas schools on a full-time basis are not considered state residents. Registration and license tags must be renewed every twelve months by mail, in person or online. In addition, all Texas vehicles must pass a safety inspection every twelve months at a stateregulated inspection station. A vehicle that passes inspection must display a current state inspection sticker in the lower lefthand corner of the front windshield, just above or below the license sticker.
74
Superior Luxury High-Rise Leasing.
Dominion Post Oak

The perfect place to call home.
Features
Stainless steel appliances Granite countertops Wood & tile flooring in selected units Soaring 10 & 11 foot ceilings Floating kitchen islands Soothing soaking tubs Private balconies Breathtaking views On-site management 24/7 maintenance
Concierge services Luxurious clubroom Media center Business center State-of-the-art fitness center Breathtaking pool & spa overlooking the Galleria Conference room Controlled-access garage Bicycle storage area
All within walking distance of the Galleria

2323 McCue Road Houston Texas 77056 Angela Rousse DominionMgr@DominionPostOak.com (713) 629-5100 DominionPostOak.com Managed by The Finger Companies
Nationwide Corporate Suites

Toll Free: 866-835-7500 | www.sterling-relo.com
HIH_WhitecoDominion_0310.indd 1
4/14/10 2:06:56 PM
A Suite Hotel Alternative - Furnished Corporate Apartments at a fraction of Hotel cost. Offering a wide variety of amenities, furniture and housewares selections to fit your lifestyle.
Photos courtesy of San Brisas Apartments
T Department of Motor Vehicles

Austin County
417 N. Chelsey Austin County Sheriff s Office Bellville, TX 77418 979-865-3111 1325 Amburn Road Texas City, TX 77591-2469 409-933-1130
Galveston County
Houston/Townhurst
1601 Townhurst Houston, TX 77043-3226 713-465-8462
Webster
111 Tristar Webster, TX 77598 281-486-8242
1000 Main Street W. E. Hill Center Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-0128
Sealy
Woodville
1001 W. Bluff Woodville, TX 75979-4735 409-283-7757
Houston/Vantage Parkway E.
Liberty County
Harris County
15403 Vantage Parkway E., Suite 300 Houston, TX 77032 281-449-2685
304 Campbell Street, Room 123 Cleveland, TX 77327-9737 281-592-5983
109 W. Coombs Alvin, TX 77511-2440 281-585-4525
Brazoria County
5420 Decker Drive Baytown, TX 77520-1448 281-424-1339
Liberty
Houston/Winkler
9206 Winkler Houston, TX 77017 713-943-0631
2103 Cos Liberty, TX 77575-4957 936-336-7343
Houston/Gessner
Montgomery County
2 Hilbig Street Conroe, TX 77301-1406 936-442-2810
Angleton
501 S. Velasco Angleton, TX 77515-6017 979-849-5711
12220 S. Gessner Houston, TX 77071-2831 713-219-4100
Humble
Houston/Grant Road
10503 Grant Road Houston, TX 77070-4407 281-890-5440
7710 Will Clayton Parkway Humble, TX 77338-5801 281-446-3391
Waller County
20906 I-10 East Wallisville, TX 77597 409-389-2491
Chambers County
Katy
Houston/Tidwell
6202 George Bush Drive Katy, TX 77493-1806 281-391-4874
523 State Highway 75 North Huntsville, TX 77320-8419 936-295-1578 281-486-8242
Fort Bend County
5505 Avenue N Rosenberg, TX 77471-5640 281-633-5400
8825 Tidwell Houston, TX 77078-3300 713-633-9872
Pasadena
2813A Red Bluff Pasadena, TX 77503-2915 713-473-3232
T Helpful Web sites

Amtrak
amtrak.com bbbhou.org
Houston Museum District

houstonmuseumdistrict.org hpl.lib.tx.us
Houston Airport System

fly2houston.com
Houston Public Library Houston Theater District

houstontheaterdistrict.org hrhouston.org
Better Business Bureau City of Houston
Ellington Airport
fly2houston.com/ellingtonhome fly2houston.com/iahhome
http://www.houstontx.gov/
George Bush Intercontinental Airport William P. Hobby Airport

fly2houston.com/hobbyhome har.com
HR Houston Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO)

ridemetro.org
Greater Houston Builders Association

ghba.org
Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau

visithoustontexas.com houston.org
Houston Association of Realtors Houston Business Journal

houston.bizjournals.com houstonchronicle.com
NASAs Johnson Space Center

www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/home
Greater Houston Partnership Harris County
Houston Chronicle Houston Downtown Alliance

downtownhouston.org
One-Stop Business Center, City of Houston

www.houstontx.gov/onestop www.state.tx.us tdi.state.tx.us
www.co.harris.tx.us hcad.org hcpl.net
State of Texas
Harris County Appraisal District Harris County Public Library
Houston Independent School District

www.houstonisd.org
Texas Department of Insurance University of Houston Small Business Development Center

sbdc.uh.edu
76
at home in houston
T Residential Retail Electric Providers

Nueces Electric Cooperative Retail Division
800-632-9288 Fax 361-387-2919 crservice@nueceselectric.org necretail.com
Cirro Energy
800-692-4776 Fax 972-759-0287 service@cirroenergy.com cirroenergy.com
Gateway Energy Services

800-805-8586 Fax 845-503-2290 sales@gesc.com gesc.com
Kinetic Energy LLC

888-610-2555 customercare@kinetictx.com kinetictexas.com
TXU Energy
800-242-9113 Fax 800-232-9488 txuenergy@txu.com txu.com
Direct Energy
888-305-3828 Fax 800-346-2233 customerhelp@directenergy.com directenergy.com
StarTex Power
866-917-8271 Fax 866-477-8576 starcustomer@startexpower.com startexpower.com
Brilliant Energy LLC

877-789-8801 Fax 713-789-8806 customerservice@brilliantenergyllc.com www.brilliantenergyllc.com
Reliant Energy
877-524-5231 service@reliant.com reliant.com
Spark Energy LP
800-780-9202 Fax 713-977-5634 customercare@sparkenergy.com sparkenergy.com
Hudson Energy Services

866-483-0370 Fax 888-893-9882 homeservice@hudsonenergy.net hudsonenergy.net
Mega Energy LLC

866-687-6342 Fax 866-599-6342 sales@mymegaenergy.com mymegaenergy.com
First Choice Power

866-469-2464 Fax 866-436-5048 firstchoicepower.com
U.S. Energy Savings Corp.

866-425-7852 Fax 866-538-9329 texascs@usesc.com usesc.com
Champion Energy Services

877-653-5090 Fax 281-653-5080 info@championenergyservices.com championenergyservices.com
Simple Power
888-897-4675 Fax 888-897-4699 care@simplepower.net simplepower.net
WTU Retail Energy

866-322-5563 Fax 800-666-8867 customercare@wturetailenergy.com wturetailenergy.com
Texas Power
866-744-6366 Fax 817-548-9722 shineon@texaspoweronline.com texaspoweronline.com
Stream Energy
866-447-8732 Fax 214-800-4440 streamenergy.net
Bounce Energy
888-452-6862 Fax 888-801-6681 customercare@bounceenergy.com bounceenergy.com
CPL Retail Energy

866-322-5563 Fax 800-666-8867 customercare@cplretailenergy.com cplretailenergy.com
OnPAC Energy
866-696-6722 Fax 866-696-6755 info@onpac.com onpac.com
Liberty Power Corporation

866-769-3799 Fax 877-772-2354 info@libertypowercorp.com libertypowercorp.com
Gexa Energy
866-961-9399 Fax 877-961-9369 customercare@gexaenergy.com gexaenergy.com
Dynowatt
877-396-6928 Fax 800-947-8683 customercare@dynowatt.com dynowatt.com
Texpo Energy
877-839-7657 Fax 866-577-0423 info@texpoenergy.com texpoenergy.com
77
T Houston Shopping Centers

Almeda Mall
555 Almeda Mall Houston, TX 77075 713-944-1010 almedamall.com
Fountains on the Lake

U.S.59/U.S. 90A 12610 Fountain Lake Circle Stafford, TX 77477 281-277-6700
Memorial City Mall

303 Memorial City Houston, Texas 77024 713-464-8640 memorialcitymall.com
Baybrook Mall
500 Baybrook Mall Friendswood, Texas 77546 281-488-4627 baybrookmall.com
The Galleria
5085 Westheimer Rd., Suite 4850 Houston, TX 77056 713-966-3500 galleriahouston.com
Meyerland Plaza
420 Meyerland Plaza Houston, Texas 77096 713-664-1166 meyerlandplaza.com
Brazos Mall
100 Hwy. 332 West Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-297-8001 shopbrazosmall.com
Greenspoint Mall
12300 IH-45 North Freeway Houston, TX 77060 281-875-6255 greenspointmall.com
Northline Mall
4400 A North Freeway, Ste. 900 Houston, Texas 77022 713-692-6131 northlinecommons.com
Brazos Town Center
U.S. 59/F.M. 762 (Thompson Rd.) brazostowncenter.com
Houston Premium Outlets

29300 Hempstead Road Cypress, TX 77433 281-304-5820 premiumoutlets.com
Northwest Mall
City Centre
9600 Hempstead Rd Houston, TX 77092 713-681-1303 northwest-mall.com
800 West Sam Houston Parkway N Houston, TX 77024 713-629-5200 citycentrehouston.com
Katy Mills Mall
Deerbrook Mall
5000 Katy Mills Circle Katy, TX 77494 281-644-5015 katymills.com
Pasadena Town Square

171 Pasadena Town Square Pasadena, TX 77506 713-473-8500 pasadenatownsquare.com
20131 Highway 59 North Humble, Texas 77338 281-446-5300 shopdeerbrookmall.com
League City Town Center

I-45/F.M. 646 leaguecity.com
Pearland Town Center

11200 Broadway Pearland, TX 77584 713-340-0704 PearlandTownCenter.com
First Colony Mall
16535 Southwest Freeway, Suite 1 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-265-6123 firstcolonymall.com
Mall of the Mainland
10000 Emmett F. Lowry Expressway Texas City, TX 77591 mallofthemainland.com
San Jacinto Mall

I-10/Garth Road 281-421-4533 sanjacintomall.com
Sharpstown Mall
7500 Bellaire Blvd Houston, TX 77036 713-772-0785
West Grand Promenade

23523 N Grand Circle Blvd Katy, TX 77449-4562 281-574-3311
West Oaks Mall
1000 West Oaks Mall Houston, Texas 77082 281-531-1332 shopwestoaksmall.com
Willowbrook Mall
2000 Willowbrook Mall Houston, Texas 77070 281-890-8000 shopwillowbrookmall.com
The Woodlands Mall
1201 Lake Woodlands Dr, Suite 700 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-363-3409 thewoodlandsmall.com
78
at home in houston
T Underground City (The Downtown Tunnel)

Houstons Underground City is a system of tunnels twenty feet below Houston's downtown streets. If the tunnels were placed end to end, it would cover more than 6.5 miles. It includes restaurants and service retail and connects ninety-five city blocks. Around ninety percent of the tunnels 378,541 square feet is occupied.
distribution of businesses
percent of occupied space
Convenience Stores General Merchandise Health & Beauty Banks & Financial Professional Services Restaurants Total Occupied Space Total Space 6% 8% 16% 10% 10% 51%
total sq. ft.

18,915 26,499 54,026 30,243 32,032 167,535 329,250 378,541
Source: Central Houston, Inc.; Partnership Research; Updated 8/27/10
79
Education
A primer on educational opportunities in Houston.
As you would expect in a city the size of Houston, educational opportunities and options are abundant and varied. Within the ten-county greater metropolitan area, there are 67 schools districts and 180 private schools to choose from. The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is the largest public school district in Texas and the seventh largest in the nation.
As the second-oldest public institution of higher education in Texas, PVAMU has an established reputation for producing thousands of engineers, nurses, educators and other professionals.
prairie view a&m university
80
courtesy of prairie view a&m university
Education
T Community & Junior Colleges

Serving more than 100,000 students each year, the Houston-area community and junior college system offers valuable stepping-stones to an undergraduate degree at a four-year university. In addition, numerous continuing education programs provide academic opportunities for students of all ages. Throughout the greater metropolitan area, you ll find a campus or facility nearby regardless of the neighborhood you eventually call home.
m.d. anderson library, university of houston
Alvin Community College

www.alvin.cc.tx.us
Brazosport College
brazosport.edu
www.com.edu
College of the Mainland, Texas City Galveston College

gc.edu
rom day care and preschools to community colleges and
nationally ranked universities, Houston possesses a full range of educational opportunities for all ages. For assistance in choosing a local day care, the Texas Department of
Houston Community College

(six campuses) hccs.edu
Family and Protective Services website at www.dfps.state.tx.us provides a search tool for child care centers and homes and identifies important standards such as the state-mandated ratio of caregivers to children within each age group, as well as CPR certification requirements for caregivers. To help you locate schools within a particular area, refer to the lists on the following pages. Youll find website addresses, phone numbers, and other details to help you become familiar with the educational options in the specific part of the metropolitan area youre interested in. For information about private schools and their websites, log on to houstonprivateschools.org.
Lee College, Baytown

www.lee.edu
Lone Star College System

(six campuses and an e-college) www.lonestar.edu
(various campuses) sanjac.edu
San Jacinto College District
Wharton County Junior College

wcjc.edu
T Medical & Health Science Schools

Internationally recognized for the world-class Texas Medical Center, Houston is the home of excellent medical schools that routinely rank among the nations very best.
Baylor College of Medicine

www.bcm.tmc.edu
Prairie View A&M University, College of Nursing

pvamu.edu
Texas A&M University, Institute of Biosciences and Technology

ibt.tamhsc.edu
Texas Womans University Institute of Health Sciences

twu.edu/houston
University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

uthouston.edu
82
education
In general, Houston schools are divided into three levels. Elementary schools for prekindergarten through fifth grade, middle schools for grades six through eight, and high schools for grades nine through twelve. State law requires that schools maintain an average student-to-teacher ratio of no more than twenty-to-one. Included in the mix are charter schools and magnet schools. Charter schools are autonomous, open-enrollment institutions that use state funding to provide innovative learning opportunities with greater f lexibility than traditional public schools. Magnet schools are designed to promote high achievement and cultural diversity and offer a choice of curricula through a variety of specialized programs. In HISD, magnet programs are available for architecture and graphic design, aviation sciences, business administration, communications, computer technology, engineering, environmental science, foreign languages, health careers and many other fields.
StStephens.indd 1 4/8/10 11:29:54 AM
St. StephenS
Episcopal school houston

Progressive Montessori education from18 months-grade 12 Celebrating Diversity and Individuality Now enrolling for Fall 2011 Small classes and nurturing faculty Certified by The American Montessori Society & The Southwest
Association of Episcopal Schools
St. Stephens Episcopal School Houston embraces Montessori principles to nurture the gifts and character of each student to inspire spiritual growth, creative expression, responsible citizenship and academic success in preparation for higher education.
Call Alycia and schedule a tour today. 713.821.9106, astewart@ssesh.org

1800 Sul Ross Houston, TX 77098
Closer than you think.

P R A I R I E V I E W A &M U N I V E R S IT Y
NORTHWEST HOUSTON CENTER
Grant Road
249
Enroll today! www.pvamu.edu/northwest

83
T Houston Area ISD Data 2008-2009

Harris County
Aldine
www.aldine.k12.tx.us 281-449-1011 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 61526 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 84 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 891 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 25 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 88
Katy
www.katyisd.org 281-396-6000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 56862 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 97.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1079 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 55 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Crosby
www.crosbyisd.org 281-328-9200 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 4998 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 92.7 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1027 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 38 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 86
Klein
www.kleinisd.net 832-249-4000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 43738 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 89.8 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1050 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 53 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 89
Cypress-Fairbanks
www.cfisd.net 281-897-4000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 100685 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 97.1 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1030 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 46 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 88
Alief
www.aliefisd.net 281-498-8110 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 45230 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 80.7 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 914 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 29 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 78
La Porte
www.lpisd.org 281-604-7000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 7914 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 91.3 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 998 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 35 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 88
Deer Park
www.dpisd.org 832-668-7000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 12554 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 99 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1024 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 39 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Channelview
www.channelview.isd.esc4.net 281-452-8002 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 8563 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 80.9 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 875 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 18 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 78
North Forest
www.nfisd.org 713-633-1600 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 7902 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 77.8 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 736 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 13 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 51
Galena Park
www.galenaparkisd.com 832-386-1000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 21350 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 87.8 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 886 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 23 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 79
Pasadena
www.pasadenaisd.org 713-740-0000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 51578 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 80.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 950 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 38 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 78
Goose Creek
www.gccisd.net 281-420-4800 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 20698 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 83.7 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 978 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 37 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 83
Sheldon
www.sheldonisd.com 281-727-2000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 6206 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 87.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 877 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 45 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 76
Houston
www.houstonisd.org 713-556-6005 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 200225 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 77.9 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 953 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 28 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 82
Excellence Academics
Learn more about FBBA! Tuesday Morning Tours,
Grades Pre-K 12
Spring Branch
www.springbranchisd.com 713-464-1511 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 32409 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 89.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1048 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 55 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 92
Huffman
www.huffmanisd.net 281-324-1871 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 3054 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 97.1 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 960 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 23 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 90
9:30 a.m. Preview Open Houses January 11 & 13, 7:00 p.m.
Spring
www.springisd.org 281-891-6000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 33980 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 93 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 943 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 29 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 78 93
www.fbba.org - Click on Admissions!

281-263-9142 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Humble
www.humble.k12.tx.us 281-641-1000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 33883 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 87.6 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1055 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 46 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 85
Tomball
www.tomballisd.net 281-357-3100 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 9723
84
education
Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 90.6 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1036 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 44 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Mean SAT (2007-2008) 999 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 50 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 95
Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 92.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1027 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 50 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 91
Austin County
Bellville
www.bellville.k12.tx.us 979-865-3133 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 2173 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 99.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 997 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 42 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 94
Columbia-Brazoria
www.cbisd.com 979-345-5147 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 3135 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 93.8 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 945 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 39 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 88
Lamar Consolidated
www.lcisd.org 832-223-0000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 22958 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 89.3 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1009 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 41 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 87
Pearland
www.pearlandisd.org 281-485-3203 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 17640 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 95.9 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1027 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 54 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 91
Needville
www.needvilleisd.com 979-793-4308 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 2572 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 97.5 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1136 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 49 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Brazos
www.brazosisd.net 979-478-6551 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 810 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 96.9 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 917 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 28 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 94
Sealy
www.sealyisd.com 979-885-3516 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 2635 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 94.7 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 966 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 39 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 88
Anahuac
Chambers County
Stafford MSD
www.stafford.msd.esc4.net 281-261-9200 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 3043 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 93.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 959 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 27 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 83
www.anahuac.isd.esc4.net 409-267-3600 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1344 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 94.9 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 944 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 51 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 87
Barbers Hill
www.bhisd.net 281-576-2221 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 3903 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 96 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 991 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 35 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 94
Galveston County
Clear Creek
www.ccisd.net 281-284-0079 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 37194 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 97.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1078 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 58 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Alvin
Brazoria County
www.alvinisd.net 281-388-1130 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 16169 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 97.1 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 978 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 41 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 90
East Chambers
www.eastchambers.net 409-296-6100 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1269 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 100 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 915 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 32 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 95
Dickinson
www.dickinsonisd.org 281-229-6000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 8596 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 85.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 956 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 39 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 83
Angleton
www.angletonisd.net 979-864-8000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 6290 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 95.3 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 992 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 33 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 88
Fort Bend County

Fort Bend
www.fortbend.k12.tx.us 281-634-1000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 68708
Friendswood
www.fisdk12.net 281-482-1267 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 5993
Brazosport
www.brazosportisd.net 979-730-7000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 12960 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 93.8 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1049 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 41 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Danbury
www.danburyisd.org 979-922-1218 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 752 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 92.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 912 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 47 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 91
Sweeny
www.sweeny.isd.esc4.net 979-491-8000 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1968 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 90.4
85
T Houston Area ISD Data 2008-2009

Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 98.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1119 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 70 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 99 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 954 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 28 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 87
New Caney
www.newcaneyisd.org 281-577-8600 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 9122 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 91.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 958 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 33 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 88
Galveston
www.gisd.org 409-766-5121 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 5591 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 78.3 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 945 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 31 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 83
Devers
www.deversisd.net 936-549-7591 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 146
Splendora
www.splendoraisd.org 281-689-3128 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 3413 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 85.9 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 992 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 25 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 89
Hardin
www.hardinisd.net 936-298-2112 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1212 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 94.6 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 927 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 19 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 84
High Island
www.esc5.net/hiisd 409-286-5317 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 156 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 95.5 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 976 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 23 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 78
Willis
www.willisisd.org 936-856-1200 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 6026 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 96.6 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1005 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 33 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 83
Hull-Daisetta
www.hdisd.net 936-536-6321 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 506 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 91.9 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 907 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 14 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 83
Hitchcock
www.hitchcockisd.org 409-986-5514 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1152 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 90.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 878 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 23 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 73
San Jacinto County

Coldspring-Oakhurst
www.cocisd.org 936-653-1115 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1645 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 84.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 873 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 18 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 70
Liberty
www.libertyisd.net 936-336-7213 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 2263 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 99.3 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 929 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 36 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 84
La Marque
www.lmisd.net 409-938-4251 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 3704 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 86.5 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 828 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 13 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 71
Shepherd
www.shepherdisd.net 936-628-3396 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1804 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 87.1 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 939 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 14 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 85
Tarkington
www.tarkingtonisd.net 281-592-8781 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1934 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 99.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 965 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 38 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 90
Santa Fe
www.sfisd.org 409-925-3526 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 4613 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 92.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 978 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 24 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Waller County
Hempstead
www.hempstead.isd.esc4.net 979-826-3304 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1398 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 84.8 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 897 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 19 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 73
Montgomery County
Conroe
www.conroeisd.net 936-709-7751 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 47996 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 96.3 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1083 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 56 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Texas City
www.tcisd.org 409-942-2713 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 6051 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 84.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 939 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 29 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 89
Royal
www.royal-isd.com 281-934-2248 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 1954 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 87.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 890 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 15 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 84
Magnolia
www.magnoliaisd.org 281-356-3571 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 11315 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 90.5 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 999 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 47 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 93
Liberty County
Cleveland
www.clevelandisd.org 281-592-8717 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 3672 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 86.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 870 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 17 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 84
Waller
www.wallerisd.net 936-931-3685 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 5224 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 91.4 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 967 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 17 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 84
Montgomery
www.misd.org 936-582-1333 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 6304 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 99.2 Mean SAT (2007-2008) 1040 College Ready Graduates (%) (2007-2008) 40 District TAKS Pass Rate (%) (2007-2008) 96
Dayton
www.daytonisd.net 936-258-2667 Total No. of Students (As of Oct. 2008) 4772 Completion Rates (%) (2007-2008) 87
86
education
Houston is a very large city, but located within the city are many neighborhoods, suburbs and master-planned communities that give a small-town feeling. Some tips to learn more about potential schools include: One way to learn more about a school is to contact the school district by phone or by visiting their Web site, which is a valuable source of information, providing school district statistics and information on individual schools. A valuable but often overlooked way to locate a new school is old-fashioned word of mouth. Colleagues already established in Houston can be helpful as well as your real estate agent, future neighbors, relatives and friends. Part of your background research should include reading available information on prospective schools and talking to administrators on the phone.
Do Your Homework
If the school that you are investigating sounds promising, schedule a visit. Be prepared to follow up with more interviews and an evaluation for your child. If possible, try to visit a prospective school while the school term is still in session. Bring a written list of questions and include questions about student-teacher ratios, computer availability, extracurricular activities, multilingual programs and gifted programs. Ask how students are tested and graded, how these results are reported and the amount of parental participation in the school. After all of your research, you still have to balance where you wish to live, the commuting distance from home to work and your gut feelings about the schools you have seen. Your familys ability to readily adapt to a move and to find happiness in a new environment may depend, in part, on how happy your children are in their new school.
Personal Impressions
First In Preparing Leaders
Early Childhood through 8th gradE

First Baptist Academy is dedicated to the preparation of leaders. Our students have the opportunity to excel academically, mature spiritually, and discover their talents.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING YOU.
SCHEDULE A TOUR.
713.290.2500
www.fbahouston.org
7450 Memorial Woods Drive, Houston, TX 77024 Conveniently located at I-10 West and the 610 Loop
87
T Colleges & Universities

1. Baylor College of Medicine bcm.edu 2. Concordia University Houston Campus adp.concordia.edu 3. DeVry University hou.devry.edu 4. Houston Baptist University hbu.edu 5. LeTourneau University letu.edu 6. Our Lady of the Lake University Houston ollusa.edu 7. Prairie View A&M University pvamu.edu 8. Rice University rice.edu 9. Sam Houston State University shsu.edu 10. South Texas College of Law stcl.edu 11. Texas A&M University Galveston tamug.edu 12. Texas A&M University tamu.edu 13. Texas A&M Health Science Center tamhsc.edu 14. Texas Southern University tsu.edu 15. Texas Womans University Institute of Health Science Houston twu.edu/houston 16. The University Center lonestar.edu/universitycenter.htm 17. The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center mdanderson.org/ 18. The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Dental Branch db.uth.tmc.edu/ 19. The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School med.uth.tmc.edu/ 20. The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston gsbs.uth.tmc.edu/ 21. The University of Texas Houston Health Science Center uthouston.edu/ 22. The University of Texas School of Public Health sph.uth.tmc.edu/ 23. The University of Texas School of Health Information Sciences at Houston shis.uth.tmc.edu/ 24. The University of Texas School of Nursing at Houston son.uth.tmc.edu/ 25. Tulane University tulane.edu/ 26. University of Houston uh.edu 27. University of Houston Law Center law.uh.edu/ 28. University of Houston System at Cinco Ranch cincoranch.uh.edu/ 29. University of Houston System at Fort Bend sugarland.uh.edu/ 30. University of Houston Clear Lake uhcl.edu 31. University of Houston Downtown dt.uh.edu/ 32. University of Phoenix Houston Campus phoenix.19gi.com/campus/Houston/ 33. University of St. Thomas stthom.edu/ 34. The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston utmb.edu/
51. Lone Star College Tomball tomball.lonestar.edu 52. Lone Star College Cy-Fair cyfair.lonestar.edu 53. San Jacinto College Central sanjac.edu 54. San Jacinto College North sanjac.edu 55. San Jacinto College South sanjac.edu 56. San Jacinto College District sanjac.edu 57. Wharton County Junior College wcjc.edu/ 58. American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine acaom.edu/ 59. American Intercontinental University houston.aiuniv.edu/ 60. Center for Advanced Legal Studies paralegal.edu/ 61. College of Biblical Studies cbshouston.edu/ 62. Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service commonwealthinst.com/ 63. Houston Graduate School of Theology hgst.edu/ 64. ICC Technical Institute itt-tech.edu/ 65. ITT Technical Institute South itt-tech.edu/ 66. ITT Technical Institute North itt-tech.edu/ 67. ITT Technical Institute West itt-tech.edu/ 68. Medvance Institute Houston medvance.edu 69, 70, 71. MTI College of Business of Technology mti.edu 72. Remington College remingtoncollege.edu/north-houston-texascolleges 73. Sanford Brown Institute sbi-houston-programs.com 74. Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary houston.swbts.edu/ 75. St. Marys Seminary stthom.edu/Public/index. asp?Page_ID=1669 smseminary.com/ 76. Texas Chiropractic College txchiro.edu/ 77. The Academy of Health Professions ahcp.edu/ 78. The Art of Institute of Houston artinstitutes.edu 79. Universal Technical Institute uti.edu/ 80. Westwood College of Technology westwood.edu/ 81. Westwood College of Technology HNS westwood.edu/
Community Colleges & Other Institutions

35. Alvin Community College alvincollege.edu/ 36. Blinn College Brenham blinn.edu/brenham/ 37. Brazosport College brazosport.edu 38. College of the Mainland com.edu/ 39. Galveston College gc.edu/ 40. Houston Community College System hccs.edu 41. Houston Community College Central Campus central.hccs.edu/ 42. Houston Community College Northeast Campus northeast.hccs.edu/ 43. Houston Community College Northwest northwest.hccs.edu/ 44. Houston Community College Southeast College hccs.edu/portal/site/southeast/ 45. Houston Community College Southwest College southwest.hccs.edu/portal/site/southwest/ 46. Lee College lee.edu/ 47. Lone Star College North Harris northharris.lonestar.edu 48. Lone Star College System lonestar.edu/ 49. Lone Star College Kingwood kingwood.lonestar.edu 50. Lone Star College Montgomery montgomery.lonestar.edu
88
To Conroe
9 51
To The Woodlands 50 & 16 To Pinehurst 12 & 13

6 66 62 79 49
To Prairie View 7 & 36
47
48
52
77
42 54
To Katy
43 32 75 78 72 59 67 58 61 69 81 4 68 60 45 15 24 20 22 74 18 21 23 17 8 19 1 3 5 25 40 33 63 41 64 26 14 27 44 10 31 71
To Baytown
46
28
73
76 56 80 2
53
29
55
30 65
To La Marque
38
70
To Damon
57
To Angleton
37
To Alvin
35
To Galveston
11
34
&
39
89
T Area Schools Recognized by the Texas Education Agency

Exemplary High Schools
Aldine ISD
Victory Early College High School schools.aldine.k12.tx.us/webs/008 Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professionals hs.houstonisd.org/debakeyhs
Barbers Hill ISD

Barbers Hill High School schools.bhisd.net/default.aspx?name=06.home
Clear Creek ISD

Clear Springs High School ccisd.net/school/clear_springs.html Clear View Educational Center ccisd.net/school/clear_view.html
Recognized High Schools

Aldine ISD
Carver Magnet High School schools.aldine.k12.tx.us/webs/002 MacArthur High School schools.aldine.k12.tx.us/webs/003 MacArthur Ninth Grade School schools.aldine.k12.tx.us/webs/083
Conroe ISD
The Woodlands College Park High School twcp.conroeisd.net
Clear Creek ISD

Clear Horizons Early College High School ccisd.net/ECHS
Friendswood ISD
Friendswood High School www.fisdk12.net/hs
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
Cy-Fair High School schools.cfisd.net/cyfair/index.php Cypress Woods High School schools.cfisd.net/cywoods/index.html
Houston ISD
Carnegie Vanguard High School www.vanguardian.org East Early College High School hs.houstonisd.org/eechs Eastwood Academy eastwoodacademy.org High School for the Performing and Visual Arts hspva.org
Alief ISD
Kerr High School alief.isd.tenet.edu/kerr
Danbury ISD
Danbury High School danburyisd.org
Angleton ISD
Angleton High School angleton.isd.tenet.edu/angleton_high_school. html
Fort Bend ISD

Clements High School fortbend.k12.tx.us/campuses/chs Stephen F. Austin High School fortbend.k12.tx.us/campuses/ahs
Houston ISD
Memorial Lutheran School

For the LiFe oF the WorLd BuiLding a strong Foundation
A Classical Christian School Offering:

orchestra, Band, choir, latin and spanish computer lab (Pre-K to 8th) language Arts science lab Academic competition national Junior society Physical education sports teams for 1st-8th grades Weekly chapel Before and after school extended hours convenient galleria area
Challenge Early College High School challengehs.org Empowerment College Preparatory High School hs.houstonisd.org/empowermenths The High School for Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice hs.houstonisd.org/lecj Lamar High School hs.houstonisd.org/lamarHS/index2.htm
Humble ISD
Kingwood High School humbleisd.net/education/school/school.php
Katy ISD
Cinco Ranch High School kisdwebs.katyisd.org/campuses/crhs
location
Early Childhood infants to PK 4s Elementary Grades Kindergarten to 8th
Seven Lakes High School kisdwebs.katyisd.org/campuses/slhs
Spring Branch ISD

Memorial High School mhs.springbranchisd.com
5800 Westheimer rd. | houston, tX 77057 | 713.782.4022 | WWW.mlchouston.org

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Source: Texas Education Agency, November 2008
education
T Select Private Schools & Preschools

Alexander-Smith Academy
10255 Richmond Avenue, Suite 100 Houston, TX 77042 70 students - 912th - Coed
Primrose Schools Holy Spirit Episcopal School

12535 Perthshire Road Houston, TX 77024 350 students - Infant8th - Coed Episcopalian Multiple locations InfantK - Coed
Youll find it in Aldine!
The Awty International School

7455 Awty School Lane Houston, TX 77055 1,180 students - PK312th - Coed
The Honor Roll School

4111 Sweetwater Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 650 students - 2 years8th - Coed
Briarwood School
12207 Whittington Houston, TX 77077 300 students - K12th - Coed
Houston Christian High School

2700 W. Sam Houston Parkway N. Houston, TX 77043 478 students - 912th - Coed Interdenominational
Duchesne Academy
10202 Memorial Houston, TX 77024 650 students - PK412th - Female Catholic
Incarnate Word Academy

609 Crawford Street Houston, TX 77002 280 students - 912th - Female Catholic
The Emery/Weiner School

9825 Stella Link Houston, TX 77025 460 students - 612th - Coed Jewish
The John Cooper School

One John Cooper Drive The Woodlands, TX 77381 950 students - PK12th - Coed
Interviewing for: Math, Science, Reading, English, Elementary, Middle School, Spanish, Bilingual, Special Education, Career Education In Aldine ISD, youll find... A great work environment A State Recognized Mentorship Program One of the highest salaries in Texas ($49,014* starting) A diverse student and teacher population National recognition for high performance Aldine ISD is located just minutes from downtown Houston and historic Galveston Island. Nearly 60,000 students and more than 9,000 employees call Aldine ISD home. * includes critical needs stipend
Episcopal High School

4650 Bissonnet Bellaire, TX 77401-3002 633 students - 912th - Coed Episcopalian
The Kinkaid School

201 Kinkaid School Drive Houston, TX 77024 1,357 students - PK12th - Coed
Faith West Academy

2225 Porter Road Katy, TX 77493 630 students - PK312th - Coed Interdenominational
Lutheran High North

1130 W. Thirty-fourth Street Houston, TX 77018 300 students - 912th - Coed Lutheran
First Baptist Academy

7450 Memorial Houston, TX 77024 305 students - PK8th - Coed Baptist
Lutheran South Academy

12555 Ryewater Drive Houston, TX 77089 800 students - PK312th - Coed Lutheran
Fort Bend Baptist Academy

1250 Seventh Street Sugar Land, TX 77478 900 students - PK12th - Coed Baptist
The Monarch School

1231 Wirt Road Houston, TX 77055 99 students - PK12th+ - Coed
Grace School
10219 Ella Lee Lane Houston, TX 77042 570 students - 20 months8th - Coed Presbyterian
Pope John XXIII High School

1800 W. Grand Parkway Katy, TX 77449 220 students - 912th - Coed Catholic
Aldine Independent School District

15010 Aldine Westfield Road Houston, Texas 77032 Phone: 281-985-6310 Internet: www.aldine.k12.tx.us
91
T Select Private Schools & Preschools

River Oaks Baptist School
2300 Willowick Houston, TX 77027 840 students - 2 years8th - Coed Baptist
St. Stephens Episcopal School

1815 Sul Ross Houston, TX 77098 180 students - 18 months12th
St. Catherines Montessori School

9821 Timberside Houston, TX 77025 250 students - 14 months9th - Coed Catholic
Episcopalian
St. Thomas Episcopal School

4900 Jackwood Houston, TX 77096 645 students - PK12th - Coed Episcopalian
Rosehill Christian School

19830 FM 2920 Tomball, TX 77377 325 students - PK12th - Coed Interdenominational
St. Johns School

2401 Claremont Lane Houston, TX 77019-5897 1,200 students - K12th - Coed
St. Thomas High School

4500 Memorial Drive Houston, TX 77007 650 students - 912th - Male Catholic
St. Agnes Academy

9000 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, TX 77036 840 students - 912th - Female Catholic
St. Marks Episcopal School

3816 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, TX 77025 375 students - 2 years8th - Coed Episcopalian
School of the Woods

1321 Wirt Road Houston, TX 77055 365 students - PK12th - Coed
St. Anne Catholic School

2121 Westheimer Road Houston, TX 77098 487 students - PK38th - Coed Catholic
St. Pius X High School

811 W. Donovan Street Houston, TX 77091 685 students - 912th - Coed Catholic
Second Baptist School

6410 Woodway Houston, TX 77057 1,000 students - PK12th - Coed Baptist
Strake Jesuit College Preparatory

8900 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, TX 77036 890 students - 912th - Male Catholic
The Tenney School

2055 S. Gessner Houston, TX 77063 60 students - 612th - Coed
Village School
13077 Westella Houston, TX 77077 830 students - 3 years10th - Coed
Westbury Christian School

10420 Hillcroft Houston, TX 77096 540 students - PK312th - Coed Church of Christ
Woodlands Christian Academy

5800 Academy Way The Woodlands, TX 77384 400 students - PK312th - Coed Nondenominational
Woodlands Preparatory School
For January Open House Events, visit

secondbaptistschool.org/admissions
SECOND BAPTIST SCHOOL 6410 WOODWAY DR HOUSTON, TX 77057 713.365.2314
27440 Kuykendahl Road Spring, TX 77389 248 students - K12th - Coed Nondenominational
92
education
T Colleges, Universities & Other Degree Granting Institutions

Colleges & Universities
American InterContinental University
9999 Richmond Avenue Houston, TX 77042 832-201-3600
College of Biblical Studies

7000 Regency Square Boulevard Houston, TX 77036 713-772-4253
Houston Graduate School of Theology

2501 Central Parkway, Suite A19 Houston, TX 77092 713-942-9505
Concordia University Houston Campus

10925 Almeda-Genoa Road Houston, TX 77034 713-910-5953
The Art Institute of Houston

1900 Yorktown Street Houston, TX 77056-4197 800-557-7216
Lamar University
4400 Martin Luther King Boulevard Beaumont, TX 77705 409-880-7011
The Art Institute of Houston North

8400 N. Sam Houston Parkway West Houston, TX 77064 800-557-7216
DeVry University
11125 Equity Drive Houston, TX 77041 713-973-3000
LeTourneau University Houston Education Center

1233 West Loop S., Suite 900 Houston, TX 77027-9106 713-425-1700
Baylor College of Medicine

One Baylor Plaza, Suite 143-A Houston, TX 77030-3411 713-798-4951
DeVry University Keller Graduate School of Management

2000 West Loop S., Suite 150 Houston, TX 77027 713-850-0888
LeTourneau University Westchase Education Center

5819 Milwee Street Houston, TX 77092 713-425-1720
Brazosport College
500 College Drive Lake Jackson, TX 77566-3136 979-230-3000
Houston Baptist University

7502 Fondren Houston, TX 77074-3298 281-649-3000
Fa
ion sh
A MEDIS ART
CUL INA
RY
eS iG n D
THE ART INSTITUTE OF HOUSTON

Real-world, hands-on education in the creative and applied arts. Career Services department to help aid students career goals. Student support including student housing program, clubs & organizations and Alumni Network. For more information, contact our Admissions department at 1-800-275-4244, www.artinstitutes.edu/houston or aih_adm@aii.edu.
1900 Yorktown Street, Houston, TX 77056
93

Our Lady of the Lake University Houston
2700 W. Thorne Drive Houston, TX 77073 281-618-5499
Texas A&M Health Science Center

301 Tarrow, Seventh Floor College Station, TX 77840 979-458-0800
Texas Womans University Institute of Health Science Houston

6700 Fannin Houston, TX 77030-2343 713-794-2000
Texas A&M University

1265 TAMU College Station, TX 77843-1265 979-845-3211
Prairie View A&M University

FM 1098 Prairie View, TX 77446 936-261-3311
Tulane University
1700 West Loop S., Ninth Floor Houston, TX 77027 713-586-6405
Texas A&M University Galveston

200 Seawolf Parkway Galveston, TX 77553 409-740-4400
Rice University
6100 Main Street Houston, TX 77005-1827 713-348-0000
University of Houston
4800 Calhoun Boulevard Houston, TX 77004 713-743-8330
Texas Chiropractic College

5912 Spencer Highway Pasadena, TX 77505 281-487-1170
Sam Houston State University

1803 Avenue I Huntsville, TX 77341 936-294-1111
University of Houston Law Center

4800 Calhoun Boulevard Houston, TX 77204-6060 713-743-2100
Texas Southern University

3100 Cleburne Houston, TX 77004-4501 713-313-7011
South Texas College of Law

1303 San Jacinto Houston, TX 77002-7013 713-659-8040
University of Houston System at Cinco Ranch

4242 S. Mason Road Katy, TX 77450 832-842-2800
University of Houston System at Sugar Land

14000 University Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-275-3300
University of Houston Clear Lake

2700 Bay Area Boulevard Houston, TX 77058-1098 281-283-7600
WOODS LOWER SCHOOL WOODS MIDDLE SCHOOL WOODS HIGH SCHOOL
University of Houston Downtown

One Main Street Houston, TX 77002-1014 713-221-8000
University of Phoenix Houston Campus

11451 Katy Freeway, Suite 100 Houston, TX 77079-2008 713-465-9966
University of Phoenix Loop Central

4888 Loop Central Drive Houston, TX 77081-2214 832-667-4507
University of St. Thomas

3800 Montrose Houston, TX 77006-4696 713-522-7911
94
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education
university of st. thomas

This Catholic university, founded in 1947, is located in the middle of the Museum District and has a student population of more than 3,200 undergraduates.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

7000 Fannin, Suite 1565 Houston, TX 77030-5400 713-500-4472
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Dental Branch

6516 M. D. Anderson Boulevard, Suite 147 Houston, TX 77030 713-500-4021
Inspiring World Class Learning
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School

6431 Fannin Houston, TX 77030-1501 713-500-5012
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

1515 Holcombe Houston, TX 77030 713-792-6161
British School of Houston

We provide students from Pre-K through 12th grade with an individualized approach to learning, where student and teacher work together to develop a personalized learning plan. The International Primary Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma form the core of our academically rigorous program. Contact us today to learn more. www.britishschoolofhouston.org 713.290.9025 admissionsbsh@britishschool.org
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

301 University Boulevard Galveston, TX 77555-0110 409-772-1902
The University of Texas School of Public Health

1200 Herman Pressler Houston, TX 77030 713-500-9000
95

Community Colleges
Alvin Community College
3110 Mustang Road, Suite B-207 Alvin, TX 77511-4807 281-756-3500
Houston Community College System

3100 Main Street Houston, TX 77002-9319 713-718-2000
Houston Community College Northwest

1010 W. Sam Houston Parkway N. Houston, TX 77043 713-718-5700
Houston Community College Central Campus

1300 Holman Houston, TX 77004 713-718-5053
Blinn College Brenham

902 College Avenue Brenham, TX 77833-4049 979-830-4000
Houston Community College Southeast

6815 Rustic Houston, TX 77087 713-718-7000
Blinn College Sealy

3701 Outlet Center Drive Sealy, TX 77474 979-627-7997
Houston Community College Coleman College for Health

1900 Pressler Street Houston, TX 77030 713-718-7400
Houston Community College Southwest

5407 Gulfton Houston, TX 77081 713-718-7748
College of the Mainland

1200 Amburn Road Texas City, TX 77591-2435 409-938-3102
Houston Community College Katy

1550 Foxlake Drive Houston, TX 77084 713-718-5757
Houston Community College Southwest College

9910 Cash Road Stafford, TX 77477 713-718-7748
Galveston College
4015 Avenue Q Galveston, TX 77550-7447 409-944-4242
Houston Community College Northeast Campus

555 Community Drive Houston, TX 77022 713-718-8100
Lamar Institute of Technology

855 E. Lavaca Beaumont, TX 77705 409-880-8321
Lamar State College Port Arthur
From Curiosity to Wisdom

Established in 1988, Cooper is an independent college prep school. Small classes, personal attention and excellence in academics, athletics, the arts and community service, form the cornerstones of a Cooper education.
1500 Proctor Street Port Arthur, TX 77640 409-984-6342
Lee College
511 S. Whiting Baytown, TX 77520-4703 281-427-5611
Lone Star College System

5000 Research Forest Drive The Woodlands, TX 77381-4399 832-813-6500
PK4-Grade 12 OPen HOuse
Lone Star College Cy-Fair

9191 Barker Cypress Road Cypress, TX 77433 281-290-3200
JANUARY 8, 2011 2 PM
Tour our campus and meet with administrators to learn more about each division and admission for the 2011-2012 academic year. AdditionAl Admission EvEnts:
January 19, February 9, April 6, May 4
Lone Star College Kingwood

20000 Kingwood Drive Kingwood, TX 77339 281-312-1600
Lone Star College Montgomery

3200 Highway 242 West Conroe, TX 77384-4077 936-273-7000
Nurturing a Love of Life, Learning, and the World Around Us

96
Lone Star College North Harris

2700 W. W. Thorne Drive Houston, TX 77073-3499 281-618-5400
education
Lone Star College Tomball

30555 Tomball Parkway Tomball, TX 77375-4096 281-351-3300
Lone Star College University Center

3232 College Park Drive The Woodlands, TX 77384 281-618-7140
San Jacinto College Central

8060 Spencer Highway Pasadena, TX 77505 281-998-6150
San Jacinto College District Office

4624 Fairmont Parkway, Suite 200 Pasadena, TX 77504-3329 281-998-6150
San Jacinto College North

5800 Uvalde Road Houston 77049 281-998-6150
San Jacinto College South

13735 Beamer Road Houston, TX 77089-6099 281-998-6150
No wonder 85,000
Start Here. Transfer Anywhere.
Lone Star College offers high quality, affordable education solutions for parents as the cost of a four-year university skyrockets out of reach. A better future for all students means a better future for our community.
StuDeNtS choose us.
Careers. Not Just Jobs.

Get specialized training for long-term careers in high demand fields. Careers in growth industries like energy, manufacturing, healthcare and computer technology.
Open Doors LoneStar.edu
Earn College Credit While Still in High School.

High school students can earn college credit while still in high school through dual credit. Credits transfer to public universities in Texas and most out-of-state and private colleges.
LSC-CyFair LSC-Kingwood LSC-Montgomery LSC-North Harris LSC-Tomball

With 5 beautiful campuses located across the Houston metropolitan area, there is an open door near you.
97
Wharton County Junior College

911 Boling Highway, Suite A-113 Wharton, TX 77488-3252 979-532-4560
Bradford School of Business

4669 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100 Houston, TX 77027 713-629-1500
Culinary Institute Alain and Marie Lentre

7070 Allensby Houston, TX 77022 713-692-0077
Other DegreeGranting Institutions

The Academy of Health Professionals Southwest
Center for Advanced Legal Studies

3910 Kirby Drive, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77098-4151 713-529-2778
Global Energy Management Institute University of Houston

334 Melcher Hall, Room 320 Houston, TX 77204-6021 713-743-3705
Center for International Business Education Prairie View A&M University

1B123A HOBT, College of Business Prairie View, TX 77446 936-261-9225
Interactive College of Technology

213 W. Southmore, Suite 101 Pasadena, TX 77502 713-920-1120
The Academy of Health Professionals Northwest

240 Northwest Mall Boulevard Houston, TX 77092 800-487-6728
Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service

415 Barren Springs Drive Houston, TX 77090 281-873-0262
Interactive College of Technology Greenspoint

256 N. Sam Houston Parkway, Suite 130 Houston, TX 77060 281-931-7717
American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

9100 Park West Drive Houston, TX 77063 713-780-9777
The Court Reporting Institute

13101 Northwest Freeway Houston, TX 77040 713-996-8300
Interactive College of Technology Hillcroft

6200 Hillcroft, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77081 713-771-5336
Aviation Institute of Maintenance

8880 Telephone Road Houston, TX 77061 713-644-7777
CSB School of Broadcasting

1455 West Loop S., Suite 630 Houston, TX 77027 800-887-2346
ITT Technical Institute North

15651 North Freeway Houston, TX 77090 281-873-0512
ITT Technical Institute South

3816 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, TX 77025
1001 Magnolia Avenue Webster, TX 77598 281-316-4700
ITT Technical Institute West

2950 South Gessner Houston, TX 77063-3751 713-952-2294
Now accepting applications for
PRESCHOOL 2S THROUGH 8TH GRADE

For additional information or to schedule a tour, please contact our Admissions Office at (713) 667-7030 or by email at admissions@stmes.org
The Ocean Corporation Diver Training

10840 Rockley Road Houston, TX 77099 281-530-0202
Remington College
11310 Greens Crossing Houston, TX 77067 281-899-1240
Rice Quantum Institute

6100 Main Street, SS-228 Houston, TX 77005 713-348-5103
www.stmes.org
ACHIEVEMENT | INTEGRITY | RESPECT | COMMUNITY | FAITH
98
Please visit us online at
Rice Technology Education Center Rice University School of Continuing Studies

6100 Main Street, Entrance 8 Houston, TX 77005 713-348-4803
education
St. Marys Seminary
9845 Memorial Drive Houston, TX 77024-3498 713-686-4345
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, J. Dalton Havard School for Theological Studies
4105 Broadway Street Houston, TX 77087 713-634-0011
Universal Technical Institute

721 Lockhaven Drive Houston, TX 77073-5515 800-510-5072
Westwood College, South Campus

99
T How To Become A Teacher In Texas

The State of Texas is facing a major educational challenge a growing shortage of qualified teachers. Whether you are a recent college graduate, a mid-career changer, a teacher from another state/country, or someone who does not yet have a college degree, the information below outlines how to become a teacher in Texas. university and alternative teacher certification programs. The program must request and receive approval from the Texas Workforce Commission Veterans Affairs Office in order for veterans to receive benefits while participating in a certification program. Once approved, the program will assign a staff person to process the required forms to request VA funding. The amount of money paid to eligible veterans will vary, depending on the type of GI Bill that they have and the type of program in which they are participating. If veterans have remaining GI Bill eligibility, they should ask the program director or university VA office for details on applying for benefits. Other financial aid - The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board administers a variety of grants for attending college. You may also qualify for other financial aid, student loans, or scholarships. Contact the teacher training program you wish to attend for additional information.
What are the basic requirements for becoming a teacher in Texas?

You must have a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university. Every teacher must have an academic major, take teacher training courses, and complete the teacher certification tests for the subject and grade level you wish to teach. The only exemption from the degree requirement is for individuals seeking Career and Technology certification.
If I am certified in another state or country, how do I become certified in Texas?

Teachers from other states or countries who hold acceptable credentials from their home state or country can gain certification in Texas by passing the appropriate Texas certification tests.
What types of teaching positions are open?

SBEC has compiled a list of various job bank Web sites that list school job vacancies in the state of Texas. Texas Workforce Commission - The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects teaching as one of the fastest growing occupations over the next 5-10 years and beyond, with demand and growth continuing to increase. The average teacher salary in Texas is $38,857. Special programs and incentives are available to help people become and remain teachers.
What resources are available to help me pay for a teacher training program?
The programs and grants listed below are specifically designed to help individuals become teachers. Teach for Texas - Offers conditional grants to help some future teachers with expenses if those individuals agree to teach in Texas public schools for a specified period of time. Certified Educational Aid Exemption Program - Offers tuition exemptions for some educational aides seeking to become certified teachers. Teach for America - This program offers cash awards that can be applied to past student loans or future educational costs for recent college graduates who commit to teaching in urban and rural public schools for two years. Troops to Teachers - This program offers guidance and support for military veterans who wish to make the transition from active duty into the teaching profession. G.I. Bill Benefits - for preparation program costs/fees Veterans Education Benefits (GI Bill) can be used for both
Whom may I contact for additional information?

For a full list of programs, benefits, training courses and testing material you may contact the SBEC Information and Support Center at (512) 936-8400 or by going to the Web site www.tea.state.tx.us. You can also contact a teacher training program or school district in your area.
Source: Texas Education Agency
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education
T Child Immunization Schedule

recommended immunization schedule for ages 06 years
Vaccine
Hepatitis B Rotavirus Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis Haemophilus influenzae type b Pneumococcal Inactivated Poliovirus Influenza7 Measles, Mumps, Rubella Varicella Hepatitis A Meningococcal
1
1 month
X1
2 4 6 12 15 18 1923 month months months months months months months

X1 X X X X X X X X X X X1 X X X X X1 X1 X1 X1 X1 X1 X X X X1 X1 X1 X1 X1 X X X X X X1 X1 X1 X1 X1 X1 X1
23 years
46 years
X1
X2
X2 X1
X1
X1 X1 X1
X2 X2
X2
Range of recommended ages for all children except certain high-risk groups Range of recommended ages for certain high-risk groups
Source: Texas Department of State Health Services
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Neighborhoods & Communities

Choose from a wealth of living options in every style, location, and price range.
When you decide to call Houston home, youll discover an extraordinarily large number of housing choicesfrom gated master-planned communities to near-town bungalows, family-friendly suburban neighborhoods to trendy downtown lofts, and rent or lease options large and small. No matter what your style or taste, youll find what youre looking for.
Houston Heights is a historic neighborhood minutes from downtown with tree-lined streets, parks, acclaimed schools and a great assortment of new construction homes, Victorian-era and Craftsman bungalows.
houston heights
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oustons oldest neighborhoods lie near the central business district downtown. These include the Heights, where distinctively updated turn-of-the-century homes stand next to newly constructed Victorian- and Charleston-style cottages with all the modern conveniences. Montrose, an eclectic mix of homes, townhomes and restaurants, is nestled near the Museum District. In MacGregorRiverside, just east of the Texas Medical Center near Brays Bayou, old homes are being refurbished and new construction is taking place. The historic Fifth Ward north of downtown is revitalized. The Greater Third Ward is home to such Houston landmarks as Texas Southern University and the University of Houston. The Second Ward and Magnolia Park areas on the east end are two of the citys oldest Hispanic neighborhoods. In Midtown, apartments, bungalows and townhomes are within easy reach of some of the citys finest antique dealers, art galleries, and interior design boutiques. River Oaks, one of the oldest and most exclusive neighborhoods, sports white-columned mansions dating from the 1920s and Houstons oldest country club. West University Place, a small-town cottage neighborhood in the shadow of Rice University and the Texas Medical Center, is one of several incorporated cities that lie within Houstons borders. South Side Place, situated along a portion of West University Place,
is only one block wide and nine blocks long. Bellaire, its own city within the city and one of Houstons first suburbs, is home to a varied mix of residences of all sizes. Braeswood and Stella Link, perched along and adjacent to the banks of Brays Bayou, have easy access to the Texas Medical Center and the Reliant Park complex. Westward outside the 610 Loop, one of two major freeways that circle the city, neighborhoods take on personalities all their own. To the north, vibrant communities include Acres Homes, Houstons oldest Aldine, Garden OaksOak neighborhoods Forest, Greater Greenspoint and Inwood Forest. To the lie near the west, GalleriaUptown central business Park (uptown-houston. district, and com) reflects the exciteinclude neighborment of Houstons Galleria hoods such as the and Post Oak shopping hub and features soaring highHeights and rises with magnificent city Montrose. views. MemorialSpring Branch features large treecovered lots and ranch-style homes mixed with modern new construction, both north and south of Interstate 10. Tanglewood remains as one of Houstons most exclusive and
old sixth ward

The oldest intact neighborhood in Houston is known as the Old Sixth Ward and has the largest concentration of Victorian homes in the region, outside of Galveston.
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neighborhoods & communities
to the east and Westheimer Road to the south. Royal Oaks is a gated community of luxury homes surrounding its own private country club (royaloakscc.com). And the Lakes of Bella Terra (lakesof bellaterra.com) offer resort-style living just thirty minutes from downtown Houston. As one continues west along Interstate 10, the city of Katy (katytexas.com) offers the charm of a small town and the quality of life of a burgeoning suburb. Cinco Ranch (cincoranch.com) provides exceptional master-planned community living on a grand scale. And the town of Fulshear is home to dynamic new developments for those who like the feel of country living with easy access to bigcity amenities. Other communities in far west Houston include Firethorne (firethorne.info), Grayson Lakes (graysonlakes.com), the Lakes on Eldridge (thelakesoneldridge.net), Seven Meadows (sevenmeadows. com) and Weston Lakes (wlakes.com). In northwest Houston, along the U.S. 290 and FM 1960 corridors, several compelling communities attract new families and young professionals alike who value the toprated Cypress-Fairbanks (Cy-Fair) School District. The 11,400-acre Bridgeland community (bridgeland.com) embraces a lifestyle within a peaceful, natural setting. Coles Crossing (colescrossing-hoa.com) is a master-planned community with 175 acres devoted to recreation. Jersey desirable close-in neighborhoods, with the Houston Country Club nearby. The Memorial Villages, a collection of some of Houstons toniest addresses, include the incorporated municipalities of Piney Point Village, Bunker Hill Village, Hedwig Village, Hunters Creek Village, Spring Valley Village and Hilshire Villageeach with its share of some of Houstons most notable residents. Briargrove Park, just inside Beltway 8, is a picturesque family-friendly neighborhood on the west side. Further west, beyond Beltway 8 (the Sam Houston Tollway), more neighborhoods and communities stretch from the northwest to the southwest. The West Memorial area follows Memorial Drive past Wilcrest Drive and offers secluded, near-bayou living on tree-covered lots not far from Lakeside Country Club. Walnut Bend (walnutbend.org) is a quiet, tuckedaway community bordering Beltway 8
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Village is an incorporated city in the area with a population of almost 200,000. The Champions FM 1960 area has stylish neighborhoods, many tucked away and hidden among tall pine trees. Fairfield (visitfairfield.com) is a Friendswood Development Company neighborhood full of lakes, parks, pools, and greenbelts. Other communities in the area include Gleannloch Farms (gleannlochfarms.com), Northpointe, High Meadow Estates (highmeadowranch.com), Riata Ranch, the town of Magnolia (cityofmagnolia.com), the Spring-Klein area (oldtown-springtx.com), WindRose (wind-roseca.org) and the city of Tomball (tomballtexas.com). In northeast Houston, seven dynamic communities share an abundance of natural beauty near Lake Houston, as well
T Houston Area Communities

Auburn Lakes
Auburnlakes.com
Lakes of Bella Terra

Lakesofbellaterra.com
Augusta Pines
Aphomes.com
Lakes of Cypress Forest

Lakesofcypressforest.com
Autumn Creek
Friendswooddevelopment.com
Lakes of Parkway
Kickerillo.com
Avalon
Visitavalon.com
Lakes on Elridge North

Lakesofbellaterra.com
Barrington
Barringtonkingwood.com
Legends Ranch
Canyonranch.com
Bentwater on Lake Conroe

Bentwater.com
Long Meadow Farms

Longmeadowfarms.net
Blackhorse Ranch South

Blackhorseranch.com
Orchard lake Estates

Orchardlakeestates.com
Bridgeland
Bridgeland.com
Riata Ranch
Riataranch.net
Carlton Woods
Carltonwoods.com
River Park West

River-park-west.com
Canyon Gate at the Brazos

Canyongate.com
Riverstone Community
Riverstonecommunity.com
Cinco Ranch
Cincoranch.com
Rolling Creek
Kickerillo.com
Clear Lake
Clearlakecity.com
Royal Oaks
Royaloakscc.com
Cypress Creek Lakes

Cypresscreeklakes.com
Savannah
Savannahtx.com
Eagle Springs
Eaglespringsonline.com
Seven Meadows
Sevenmeadows.com
Fairfield
Visitfairfield.com
Sienna Plantation
Siennaplantation.com
Fall Creek as the highly acclaimed Humble Independent School District. Atascocita (humbleareachamber.org), Eagle Springs (eagle-springsonline.com), Fall Creek (fallcreekhouston.com), the city of Humble (cityofhumble. com), Kingwood (kingwoodonline.com), Summerwood (summerwoodonline.com) and Walden On Lake Houston (waldenonlakehouston.com). To the north of Houston lie Montgomery County, home to the city of Conroe, population 43,000 and The Woodlands (thewoodlands.com), one of the most successful masterplanned communities in the nation, with 28,000 acres of lush forest, a convention center, a conference center, two country clubs, a hospital and medical center. In southwest Houston, neighborhoods include Fondren Southwest, Gulfton, MeyerlandSouth Post Oak, Sharpstown, and Westbury. Farther to the southwest, the major growth taking place in Fort Bend County has made it the site of more masterplanned communities than any other county in the state.
Fallcreekhouston.com
Stone Gate & Canyon Lakes

Canyongate.com
Firethorne
Firethorne.info
Summerwood
Summerwoodonline.com
First Colony
Firstcolony.org
Teaswood
Teaswood.com
The French Quarter on Lake Conroe

Thefrenchquarteronlakeconroe.com
Telfair
Telfair.com
Gleannloch Farms
Gleannlochfarms.com
Tuscan Lakes
Tuscanlakes.com
Grayson Lakes
Graysonlakes.com
Village Creek
Visitvillagecreek.com
Greatwood
Greatwoodonline.com
Vintage Lakes
Kickerillo.com
Kingwood
Kingwoodonline.com
Windrose
Visitwindrose.com
Lakemont
Visitlakemont.com
Windsor Park Lakes

Wplakes.com
Lakes at Highland Glen

Lakesofhighlandglen.com
The Woodlands
Thewoodlands.com
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There the cities of Alief, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, Stafford (cityofstafford.com) and Sugar Land (sugarlandtx.gov) form a vibrant network fueling the areas growth. Master-planned communities in Fort Bend County include First Colony (firstcolony.org), Greatwood (greatwoodonline.com), Lake Olympia, New Territory (newterritory. org), Pecan Grove Plantation (www.pecangrovecc.com), RiverPark, Riverstone (www.riverstonecommunity. com),Telfair (telfair.com) and Sienna Plantation (siennaplantation.com). A variety of lifestyle options exist just south of the Houston area via Interstate 45. Cities like Alvin (alvintexas.org), Pearland (ci.pearland.tx.us), Pasadena (pasadenachamber. org), Friendswood (www.ci.friendswood.tx.us), La Porte Bayshore (laportechamber.org), La Marque (ci.la-marque. tx.us), Texas City (texas-city-tx.org), Baytown (baytown. org), and Galveston (galveston.com) each offer a full range of city services and housing and employment options. The Bay Area between Houston and Galveston is home to NASAs Johnson Space Center. Communities include Clear Lake (www.clearlakearea.com), Clear Lake Shores, El Lago, Kemah, League City, Nassau Bay, Seabrook, South Shore Harbor, Taylor Lake Village, Victory Lake, and Webster.
houston heights
This historic neighborhood, just outside of downtown, is filled with Victorian-era homes and Craftsman bungalows. Its treelined streets and acclaimed schools are but a few of the highlights of this area.
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Gardening
ith an abundance of new as well as established neighborhoods and an ever-expanding population of new residents, Houston is fertile ground for home decorating, renovation and remodeling. A whole host of noted architects, interior designers and decorators, landscape architects, home theater designers and swimming pool contractors throughout the city provide professional services and consultation. Because of the nearly year-long moderate climate, residents take pride in cultivating lush gardens and thick, well-manicured lawns. A sampling of establishments that serve the needs of Houston gardeners includes Teas Nursery, Houston Garden Centers, Cornelius Nurseries, Another Place in Time and Buchanans Native Plants.
T Gardening Resources
These are just some of the landscaping and gardening organizations in the Houston area.
Galveston Orchid Society

galvestonorchidsociety.org
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

houstonnaturecenter.org
Houston Rose Society

houstonrose.org
International Oleander Society

oleander.org
Lone Star Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society

lonestarahs.org
Plumeria Society of America

theplumeriasociety.org
River Oaks Garden Club

riveroaksgardenclub.org
Urban Harvest
urbanharvest.org
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Michael T. Hamilton
Renting
Realtor Hamiltontm5@yahoo.com
Moving?
or those looking to rent or lease, Houston offers a multitude of choicesits more than 550,000 total apartment units make this rental market the fourth largest in the country. Besides apartments, there are townhomes, lofts, mid-rises, high-rises, condominiums, garage apartments and single-family homes to choose from. Not only do Houstons rental rates compare favorably to those in the rest of the country, but amenities that are considered luxuries elsewhere are often standard fare in Houston-area apartment complexes. Many Houstonians have discovered the unique benefits of vertical living. New luxury high-rise properties are flourishing in Houston, most notably in the Galleria Post OakUptown Park area. In downtown Houston, creative restoration has transformed several old city landmarks into luxury loft condominiums, with the convenience of being near the urban nightlife of the central business district.
Call Now! As your Real Estate Professional I will walk you through the purchasing process for your New Home. And help M you locate the right Neighborhood! 281-979-7599
Trend Setter Realty, LLC 7211 Regency Square Blvd #154 Houston, Texas 77036
T Renting & Leasing in Texas

Texas law does not require renters insurance, but almost everyone agrees its a good idea. The property owners insurance does not cover a renters personal belongings. All residential rental dwellings must have smoke detectors installed by the owner. Renters are responsible for replacing batteries and checking to make sure the smoke detector works correctly. It is a violation of Texas law to disable or disconnect a smoke detector. Texas law requires that rental properties must have the following security devices provided at the owners expense: a keyless deadbolt or a keyless bolting device on all exterior doors; a peep-hole or clear glass pane on all exterior doors; a keyed deadbolt or door handle lock on a main entry door; a pin lock and either a door handle latch or a security bar on each sliding glass door; and a window latch on each window.
For an overview of tenant rights from the Texas attorney general, call the attorney generals Consumer Protection Hotline at 713-223-5886 or 800-621-0508 or visit oag.state.tx.us/consumer/tenants.shtml
Moving here is just the beginning.

Paddle, sail or float on 300 acres of scenic lakes and waterways. With 600 more on the way, fun and adventure is always just around the bend in Bridgeland.
FIND BALANCE 2010 Texas Association of Builders Developer of the Year 2010 GHBA Developer of the Year
11,400 acre master-planned community Homes from the $160s to over $1 million 1-281-304-5588 or toll free 1-866-232-0270 www.bridgeland.com
8626.3HereIshouston_Winter2010.indd 1
12/7/10 1:20 PM
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Aldine
Aldine (pronounced oll-DEEN) was named after a local farm family and was built on the InternationalGreat Northern Railroad. Located near Houstons George Bush Intercontinental Airport, the community is located in central Harris County on the northern edge of Houston, on Farm Road 525, the Missouri Pacific Railroad, with easy access to the Hardy Toll Road. Aldine is serviced by the Aldine Independent School District (www.aldine.k12.tx.us) and is part of the Lone Star College System.
Alief
Alief is located in western Harris County along the Southern Pacific Railroad and Brays Bayou and was first settled in 1861. The area was originally named the Town of Dairy, but was forced to change the name to avoid confusion with a town called Daisy. It was decided that the city would be named Alief, which honors the countrys first postmistress, Alief Ozelda Magee. Despite being located in Houston, Alief is served by the Alief Independent School District (www.aliefisd.net). The district offers a wide range of educational opportunities in academics, the arts, and career and technology education. Special education, gifted/talented, English as a second language (ESL), and an English Spanish bilingual program are among the support strands available. Alief is the most ethnically diverse in school districts of comparable size in Texas. Virtually every culture of the modern world is represented in its 45,000 student enrollment; more than 60 languages and dialects are spoken. Guest speakers, culture clubs, and ethnic fairs help promote multicultural appreciation.
fourth largest Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The past continues to be embraced today. This is made evident by historic structures such as the Alvin Depot,theoriginaltownneighborhoods, and the traditional downtown area. Alvin is also focuses on the future and how to continuously maintain the quality of life enjoyed today. With 2 state highways, both BNSF and UP rail lines, 2 major airports, and Alvin Community College, Alvin also delivers value in transportation and education. Alvin is served by the Alvin Independent School District (www.alvinisd.net) and is an accredited district with an Exemplary rating from the Texas Education Agency. Ten of the schools are rated Exemplary and nine are rated Recognized. Since 2005 the district has experienced a 26% growth in student population. Over the last five years, property values have increased from a little over $1 billion to almost $5 billion. Alvin ISD covers 250 square miles in northern Brazoria County and serves the communities of Alvin, Manvel, Iowa Colony, Liverpool, Amsterdam, and parts of Rosharon, Arcola, and Pearland. Approximately 16,684 students make Alvin ISD the second largest school district in Brazoria County.
Humble Independent School District (www.humble.k12.tx.us) serves Atascocita.
Baytown
Located on the northern shore of Galveston Bay between the San Jacinto River on the west and the Trinity River on the east and seated along both I-10 and State Highway 146, Baytown is located approximately 30 miles east of Downtown Houston. Major employers for the city include: ExxonMobil Baytown Refinery, Exxon Chemical, Chevron Phillips, Bayer and Amoco. The city also boasts major regional warehouse and distribution centers for both Wal-Mart and Home Depot. Baytown is the fourth largest city in the Houston Metropolitan area with an estimated population of 66,430. Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District (www.gccisd.net) serves the students of Baytown and covers 128 square miles in Harris and west Chambers counties. (www.baytown.org)
Bear Creek / Highway 6

Just west of the Sam Houston Tollway and between the Katy Freeway and Highway 290 is an area referred to as Bear Creek. This area offers a good mix of apartments and mid-range housing. Among the master-planned communities in Bear Creek are Deerfield Village and Fairfield, which offers new homes priced from the $160,000s to over a million dollars on oversized home sites. Other subdivisions include Glen Cairn, Bear Creek Plantation, Jersey Village and Pine Forest. Bear Creek is served by the CypressFairbanks Independent School District (www.cfisd.net). There are 186 square miles of land within the boundaries of Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, making it the second-largest district in Harris County in terms of student enrollment, second only to Houston ISD and the third largest school district in Texas. CFISD is home to more than 850 subdivisions and apartment complexes within its borders.
Atascocita
Atascocita is a relatively newer community that began construction in the 1970s and quickly became one of the fastest growing communities in the Houston area. In 2009, it was named one of the 9 from 2009 by The Gadberry Group, which is a Little Rock-based company that provides population and technology services for retailers. The community is located in northeastern Harris County and is six miles east of Humble, 18 miles northeast of downtown Houston and runs along FM 1960. The community borders Lake Houston on the east, is home to many recreation facilities and golf courses, including the famed Tour 18. Astascocita Gets its name from Atascocita Road, which is what is now known as FM 1960. The
Alvin
Alvin is located approximately twelve miles southeast of Houston in northeast Brazoria County, and is a community that is proud of its history and committed to preserving its heritage and uniqueness as a town on the edge of the nations
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Bellaire
Founded in 1908, Bellaire is one of the original suburbs of Houston. Encompassed by Houston and West University Place, Bellaire is mostly a residential town with a population of over 15,000. Bellaire is known for its quiet neighborhoods and first-rate amenities, including libraries, parks and recreational facilities, and highly ranked schools. Students are served by the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org), the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh-largest in the United States. Bellaire Zindler Park features a neighborhood pool, tennis courts, a childrens playground, the Bellaire Recreation Center, and the Bellaire Civic Center. Residents of Bellaire enjoy unique restaurants, boutiques, and even the Fall Arts Festival in the spring. (www.ci.bellaire.tx.us) Tollway bordering Buffalo Bayou on the north and Westheimer Road on the south. Its location is just minutes of the Galleria shopping and business center. The neighborhood has a playground, tennis courts, a clubhouse and a 25-yard pool with attached deep-water diving pool and a baby pool. Students are served by the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org). (www.briargrovepark.org) a popular choice. The area derived its identity from the Champions Golf Club, which was established in 1958 by Jackie Burke and Jimmie Demaret. There are several communities to choose from in the area, including: Olde Oaks, Northgate Forest and Champions Forest, with home prices ranging from the $100s to more than $1 million Nearby shopping includes Greenspoint and Willowbrook malls. The Spring Independent School District (www. springisd.org) serves students in the area.
Bridgeland
Located in Cypress, Texas, Bridgeland is one of Northwest Houstons premier communities. Its acres of lakes and prairie land span out from Fry Road and Highway 290. Homes range from the $160s to $1 million and builders include D.R. Horton, Darling Homes, David Weekley, Highland Homes, Lennar Homes, Masterpiece Custom Homes, Ltd., Meritage Homes, Partners in Building, Perry Homes, Ronny Carroll Custom Homes, Tommy Bailey Homes, Trendmaker Homes, and Village Homes. The Lakeland Activity Center, the first of several planned recreation centers, covers more than six acres and offers a resortstyle swimming complex and a 6,000-square-foot Community Center. Residents can explore outdoors along the many walking and biking trails, test their skills at the Disc Golf course, paddle around Lake Bridgeland on a paddle boat, and enjoy events coordinated by a full-time Activities Director. Three public school districts serve the Bridgeland community: CypressFairbanks Independent School District (www.cfisd.net), Katy Independent School District (www.katyisd.org) and Waller Independent School District (www.wallerisd.net).(www.bridgeland.com)
Cinco Ranch
Considered part of Greater Katy, Cinco Ranch is a Newland Communities master-planned community, roughly 10 miles southeast of Katy and approximately 32 miles west of downtown Houston. The community features an 18-hole, par-71 daily fee course, six neighborhood pools, a half-acre four-foot-deep swimming lagoon, a Childrens Garden,13 tennis courts, and Lakefront parks located along Lake Pointe Park and the 14-acre South Lake, which offer fishing, sailing and paddle boating for residents. Cinco Ranch is served by the Katy Independent School District (www. katyisd.org). (www.cincoranch.com)
Braeswood Place
Braeswood Place is actually a group of seven subdivisions consisting of approximately 2,200 homes. These subdivisions include: Ayrshire, Braes Heights, Braes Oaks, Braes Manor, Braes Terrace, Emerald Forest, and Southern Oaks. The mainly singlefamily neighborhood is located inside the 610 Loop and is south of West University Place and Southside Place, east of Bellaire and west of Old Braeswood and the Texas Medical Center and north of Knollwood Village and Linkwood. In 2008, the Houston Press named the area best hidden neighborhood. Students are served by the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org), the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh-largest in the United States. (www.braeswoodplace.org)
Clear Lake Area

Known primarily as the home to NASAs Johnson Space Center, the Clear Lake area has grown into a robust and dynamic area. The Clear Lake area includes both Harris and Galveston counties, and parts of the cities of Houston and Pasadena. There are nine distinct communities which distinguish the area. These areas include: Clear Lake City, Cleary Lake Shores, El Lago, Kemah, League City, Nassau Bay, Seabrook, Taylor Lake Village and Webster. The area provides easy to travel to both Houston and Galveston. Residents enjoy an abundance of activities, including shopping, restaurants, boating and more.
Briargrove Park
Briargrove Park is a family oriented neighborhood consisting of approximately 1480 homes. It is located in west Houston between Gessner and the Sam Houston
Champions
Champions is located between I-45 and Highway 249. Easy access to downtown Houston, as well its abundance of golf courses and country clubs, make this area
Clear Lake City

Clear Lake City, which is adjacent to NASAs Johnson Space Center, is
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Houstons second-largest masterplanned community. The community is made up of several neighborhoods, including: Meadowgreen, Clear Lake Forest, Brook Forest, Bay Forest, Bay Oaks, Bay Glen, Bay Knoll, Bay Pointe, Pinebrook, Brookwood, Camino South, Middlebrook, and Northfork, Oakbrook and Oakbrook West. Students are served by the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd.net).
Clear Lake Shores

Regarded as The Yachting Capital of Texas, Clear Lake Shores is approximately one mile west of Galveston Bay and surrounded by water on three sides. The city is located about 22 miles northwest of Galveston and is approximately .6 square miles in size. The 2000 census listed the population of Clear Lake Shores as 1,205 with a median family income of $86,450. Students attend the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd.net).
approximately 53,000 and covers an estimated 37.9 square miles. Many in Conroe enjoy its close proximity to Lake Conroe, a recreation area that includes the nearly 21,000 acre Lake Conroe that extends 21 miles with portions located within the Sam Houston National Forest. Students attend the Conroe Independent School District (www.conroeisd.net), which has a district wide enrollment of approximately 50,000 students with an Average enrollment growth of 1,560 students per year. (www.cityofconroe.org)
second only to Houston ISD in enrollment size within Harris County. Jersey Village is an incorporated city located within the area. Jersey Village is the home of Jersey Meadow Golf Course, which was described by some local sports writers as the best kept secret in Houston. To date, more than 732,546 people in 251,657 households call the Cypress Fairbanks area home. (www.cyfairchamber.com)
Deer Park
Deer Park, often referred to as the Birth Place of Texas, is the site where initial treaty documents securing Texas independence from Mexico were drafted following the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. Named Best Affordable Suburb in Texas for 2010 by Bloomberg Business Week, and awarded a contender spot on the CNN list of 100 Best Places to Live in 2009, Deer Park is located approximately 20 miles southeast of Houston. The city provides easy access to the Houston region, Clear Lake/Bay Area and the sand and surf of Galveston Island. The 2010 estimated population of 29,866 is expected to grow to 31,355 by 2015. Largest employers in Deer Park include: Shell (2,000), Deer Park Independent School District (1,246), Dow (979) and Lubrizol (832). The Deer Park Independent School District (www.dpisd.org) serves the approximately 12,300 students of the area. (www.deerparktx.gov)
Crosby / Huffman
With 150 miles of pine forests and open grassland, Crosby and Huffman outline the east side of Lake Houston. Once predominately an agricultural area, Crosby and Huffman are satellite communities within 35 minutes of downtown Houston. U S Highway 90 connects to Beltway 8 and Sam Houston Toll Road, making any point in the greater Houston area within an hour. State of the art health care at the world renowned Houston Medical Center is located nearby. According to 2004 estimates, Crosby had a population of 22,603 with Huffman at about 10,148. Students in Crosby attend the Crosby Independent School District (www. crosbyisd.org) and Huffman students attend the Huffman Independent School District (www.huffmanisd.net). (www.crosbyhuffmancc.org)
Coles Crossing
Located just off Huffmeister at the junction of US 290 and Barker Cypress Road, Coles Crossing offers easy access to the Sam Houston Tollway, Highway 6 and FM 1960. Coles Crossing is a 1,200acre Master-Planned heavily wooded community in close proximity to Willowbrook Mall, restaurants and nearby medical centers. In 2004, they were the recipient of 2004 Texas Community Forestry Award. The community offers a 56-acre heavily wooded reserve, 2.5 miles of hiking and biking nature trails, a fish-stocked pond, tennis courts and a pool. Students are served by the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (www.cfisd.net).
Downtown Houston
In the 60s and 70s most people left the city for the suburbs, but today an increasing number of people are coming back. Houstons urban core has undergone a transformation during the past decade as investors have successfully committed to making downtown an attractive, clean and safe place for new investors, retailers, and tenants. The core of downtown has a residential population of over 4,000 and a rapidly increasing 380,000 people live within a 5 mile radius. Downtown offers endless entertainment possibilities with its world class Theater District
Cypress Fairbanks
The Cypress Fairbanks region is located northwest of Houston. The two main crossroads, FM 1960 at U.S. Highway 290 and at State Highway 249, are 21 miles from Houstons central business district. This largely unincorporated Harris County region gains a strong sense of community from association with territory found within the Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District (www.cfisd.net) boundaries. The school district has been one of the areas major attractions. With more than 100,774 students, this public school district is
Conroe
Conroe is located approximately 40 miles north of Houston in Montgomery County. Named after Isaac Conroe, a Southern Cavalry officer who founded a saw mill there in 1881, the city has a population of
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and a thriving night life scene centered in its Historic District. The Warehouse District is famous for its funky, alternative art scene. As this city keeps expanding, opportunities to live, work, and play in Downtown Houston are growing as well. (www.downtowndistrict.org), (www.downtown-houston.org) population of approximately 3,075 El Lago consists mainly of some 900 single family residences in the subdivisions of El Lago, El Lago Estates and Taylorcrest. The city is approximately .7 square miles and is served by the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd.net). (www.ellago-tx.com) Houston and about eight minutes from Bush Intercontinental Airport, Fall Creek is the only master-planned golf community located within Beltway 8. Slated for 2,500 homes when development is complete, future residents can choose from several home builders, including: David Weekley Homes, Centex Homes, D.R. Horton, Highland Homes, Meritage Homes, Plantation Homes, Triumph Homes, Coventry Homes, Huntington Homes and Parkwood Builders. Fall Creek residents enjoy a broad spectrum of amenities, including hike-and-bike trails, three stocked community lakes (with a planned fourth), a resort-style aquatic center and tennis courts, two recreation centers and the Redstone Golf Club, which includes two 18- hole courses. The courses include the Jacobsen Hardydesigned Member Course and the Tournament Course, a public venue designed by Rees Jones and home to the Shell Houston Open. Fall Creek is part of the Humble Independent School District (www.humble.k12.tx.us). (fallcreekhouston.com)
Eagle Springs
Eagle Springs is a 1360-acre Newland CommunitiesMaster-PlannedCommunity located inside Beltway 8 at Will Clayton Parkway and Eagle Springs Parkway. It is located in Humble and approximately 10 -15 minutes outside Kingwood. Home prices range from the $140s to the low $500s and include such builders as: Ashton Woods Homes, Beazer Homes, Chesmar Homes, David Weekley Homes, Highland Homes, Lennar Homes and Village Builders. Amenities include a nature park, hike and bike trails, miles of greenbelts, The Island Club at Lake Montage, a village square and the 15-acre Eagle Springs Athletic Club and Sports Complex. Students are served by the Humble Independent School District (www.humble.k12.tx.us). (www. eaglespringstx.com)
Fairfield
Fairfield is a 3,200 acre development by Friendswood Development Company which opened in 1988. When complete, Fairfield will be home to 5,800 families. Fairfields 15,000 square foot athletic club includes a full-size basketball court, fitness center, special events room, and classroom areas. Outside the center is a competition-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, and a 20-acre sports park with baseball and soccer fields. Currently, Fairfield has eight lakes, six neighborhood parks and six neighborhood pools, plus numerous pocket parks and greenbelts winding through the community. Builders in the community include: Frontier Custom Homes, Lennar, Perry Homes, Village Builders, Trendmaker Homes, Ryan Custom Homes, Triumph Homes, Highland Homes and Westin Homes. Fairfield is located in the Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District (www.cfisd.net). (www.visitfairfield.com)
Fifth Ward
In 1866, following the Civil War, the Fifth Ward was created from portions of the First Ward and Second Ward, and is now one of six wards of Houston. The Fifth Wards boundaries are Lockwood Drive, Liberty Road, Jensen Drive and Buffalo Bayou. The Fifth Ward is part of the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org). The community has a rich musical, artistic and cultural history. The community boasts six churches over a hundred years old, including Mount Vernon United Methodist Church, which was founded by former slave Reverend Toby Gregg in 1865. In 2000, the estimated population of the area was 22,000. (www.fifthwardcrc.org)
El Lago
The city of El Lago (the lake) gets its name it name because it is bounded by lakes on two sides. Once the home and hideout of pirate Jean Lafitte, the city would later become a home for many astronauts, including Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin. With a 2000 census
Fall Creek
Fall Creek is a 2,300-acre masterplanned community that opened in 2003. Located 15 miles from downtown
the woodlands waterway

Linking shopping, dining and living areas in Town Center, the waterway is over a mile long and serves as both a park and a unique transit system.
Firethorne
Located at the Katy / Fulshear area of Norther Fort Bend County, just one mile south of I-10 on FM 1463, Firethorn is a 1,400-acre Master
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designed community that, upon completion, will feature approximately 3,600 single-family homes. The community offers open areas, green space, lakes and parks. New homes prices range from the mid $100s to the $800s and feature such builders as: Coventry Homes, Highland Homes, Parkwood Builders, Partners in Building, Perry Homes, David Weekley Homes, Highland Homes and Plantation Homes. Firethorne is part of the Katy Independent School District (www.katyisd.org). (www.firethorne.info)
First Colony
With convenient access to the Southwest Freeway, First Colony is a master-planned community in southwest Houston, less than 20 miles from downtown Houston. Amenities include a golf course, ten pools, six lakes, lighted tennis courts, sand volleyball courts and a 40-acre Aquatic Center, that features a playground, spray park, a 50-meter pool, 2 lighted volleyball courts, disc golf course, picnic tables, a 23-acre stocked lake and walking trails. Housing is comprised of single-family homes, apartments, condominiums and townhomes. First Colony is in the Fort Bend Independent School District (www.fortbend.k12.tx.us). (www.firstcolony.org)
Centre, home to great performances. Fort Bend County includes: Arcola (www.arcola-tx.com), Beasley, Fairchilds, Fulshear (www.fulsheartx.com), Katy (www.cityofkaty.com), Kendleton, Meadows Place (www. cityofmeadowsplace.org), Missouri City (www.missouricitytx.gov), Needville (www.cityofneedville.com), Orchard (www.orchardtexas.org), Pearland (www.cityofpearland.com), The Village of Pleak (www.villageofpleak.com), Richmond (www.ci.richmond.tx.us), Rosenberg (www.rosenbergecodev.com), Simonton (www.simontontexas.org), Stafford (www.cityofstafford.com), Sugar Land (www.sugarlandtx.gov).
approximately 1,400 city residents, which has almost doubled since the 2000 census. Primarily a farm and ranch, Fulshear Fulshear is quickly becoming a polo destination. This area, alone, has four polo fields. In addition, it has added two new housing communities, Cross Creek Ranch located off FM1093 on the east side of Fulshear and Fulshear Creek Crossing located off FM1093 on the west side of Fulshear. Most of the area is zoned for the Lamar Consolidated Independent School District (www.lcisd.org). (www.fulsheartx.net)
Galveston Island
Galveston Island is located on the coastline of Texas just 50 miles south of Houston and is well known for its 32 miles of beaches, great restaurants, first-rate attractions and it historical charm. With hundreds of historic structures are on the National Register of Historic Places, and thousands of historic houses, Galveston is one of the countrys most important concentrations of late 19th- and early 20th-century architecture. The Island also offers more traditional housingranch-style homes built from the 1950s to 1980s in neighborhoods throughout much of the Island. Students on the Island are served by the Galveston Independent School District (www.gisd.org), it covers 94.82 square miles including all of Galveston Island and a portion of the Bolivar Peninsula. The district serves approximately 6,400 students on the Island and Bolivar Peninsula. The Island was struck in September 2008 by Hurricane Ike and around 80 percent of the Island homes and buildings were affected by rising water and wind damage. The residents and business owners have been aided by the efforts lead by the Galveston Chamber of Commerce and the Galveston Economic Development Partnership (GEDP) to facilitate a successful economic recovery strategy for the business community of Galveston Island. (www.cityofgalveston.org)
Friendswood
Friendswood is conveniently located between central Houston and Galveston, with easy access to Hobby Airport, George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Ellington Field and Clover Field. The city, which is approximately 30 minutes outside Houston, now stands where Fig orchards, satsuma orange orchards, and rice fields once flourished. In 2009, Friendswood was named one of the Best Most Affordable Suburbs in the U.S. by Business Week, and was named one of Money Magazines Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in both 2007 and 2009. With an estimated population of 36,000, the community is roughly 21 square miles in size and sits in both Galveston and Harris counties. Depending on where they live, students are either served by the Friendswood Independent School District (www. fisdk12.net), or the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd. net). (www.ci.friendswood.tx.us)
Fort Bend County

Fort Bend County is proud has been named one of the safest communities in the U.S. and the regional leader in household income. At 531,000 residents, Fort Bend County is projected to grow to over 1,000,000 by 2030. On the education front, 38% of the workforce earned a college degree or higher and the Katy ISD has become one of the fastest-growing school districts in the US. Fort Bend County also knows a thing or two about entertainment. Besides shopping and 300 holes of championship golf, the are the 23,000 acres at the George Ranch, the George Observatory and the 1,100 seat Stafford
Fulshear
The City of Fulshear is located in northwest Fort Bend County, at the crossroads of FM 359 and FM 1093. The city limits stretch across approximately 8.2 square miles along the banks of the Brazos River. Incorporated in 1977, the city has an estimated population of
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Garden Oaks
Established in 1937 by Edward L Crain, Garden Oaks is located just north of the North Loop (610), bordered by Ella Blvd. to the west and Yale St. to the east and sits in the 77018 zip code. Known for it pine trees, grand magnolias and large lots, Garden Oaks is an architecturally unique neighborhood of approximately 1,400 homes. From quaint cottages and charming bungalows to plantation, ranch and traditional style homes, Garden Oaks supports diverse updates while maintaining its charm and sense of history. Students are served by the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org). (www.gardenoaks.org) homes from Imperial Homes, David Powers Homes, David Weekley Homes, First Texas Homes, Meritage Homes and Partners in Building. Grayson Lakes is part of the Katy Independent School District (www.katyisd.org). southwest of downtown Houston at the intersection of Grand Parkway and U.S. 59 in the 77479 zip code. The community covers approximately 3.9 square miles, has an estimated 2007 population of 9,407 and a 2008 median household income level of $143,338. Home prices range from the low $200s to the low $600s and include builders such as: Emerald Homes, Newmark Homes and Village Builders. Students are served by the Lamar Consolidated School District (www.lcisd.org).
Greater Fondren Southwest

Located near the intersection of the Sam Houston Tollway and the Southwest Freeway, the Greater Fondren Southwest area covers the zip codes 77031, 77096, 77035, 77071. Because of its locations, residents enjoy easy access to downtown Houston. The area covers approximately 8.8 square miles with an estimated population of 60,100. For 2008, Median Household income was approximately $37,646 and average estimated home value was $169,476. Students in the Greater Fondren Southwest area attend the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org)
Greenway Plaza
Greenway Plaza is a ten-building masterplanned development complex located inside the loop along U.S. 59, five miles southwest of downtown Houston and within easy reach of the West Loop/ Galleria area. The mixed-use community covers 52 acres and includes first-class office buildings, a luxury hotel, high-rise condominiums, an athletic/social club, retail shopping, a food court and a transportation center. Residents enjoy an easy commute to the Galleria area, River Oaks, West University, Texas Medical Center, and downtown Houston. (www.greenwayplaza.com)
Gleannloch Farms
Located on Spring-Cypress Road just east of Highway 249, this 2,100 acre master-planned community is part of the Klein Independent School District (www.kleinisd.net). The community boasts over 40 acres of recreational lakes for canoeing and fishing, a 27-hole championship, daily-fee golf course, an equestrian center, childrens playground, extensive greenbelts with parks and trail systems, along with a state-of-theart community recreation center. Builders in Gleannloch Farms include Darling Homes, Village Builders, Ryland Homes, Newmark Homes, David Weekly Homes, and Trendmaker Homes. Range from the high $100s to $1 million plus.
Greater Greenspoint
The Greenspoint District, a 12-squaremile activity center in north Houston, that is home to more than 18 million square feet of office, retail and industrial space, 70,000 employees and approximately 97,000 residents. Greenspoint is home to ExxonMobil, which occupies more than 1.6 million square feet of office space. Two school districts serve Greenspoint: Aldine Independent School District (www.aldine.k12.tx.us) and Spring Independent School District (www.springisd.org). (www.greenspoint.org)
Gulfton
Located approximately ten miles southwest of downtown Houston, Gulfton is about two miles west of Bellaire, and is between Beltway 8 and the 610 Loop, southeast of U.S. 59 and north of Bellaire Blvd. Gulfton is a densely populated area with few sidewalks. Population figures range from 45,000 to 70,000, with a 2006 median family income of $18,733. There are an estimated 90 apartment communities in the 3.2 square miles that make up Gulfton. Students are served by the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org)
Grayson Lakes
Grayson Lakes is a Newland Communities master-planned community located five miles west of Grand Parkway, two miles to the south of I-10 and five miles north of FM 1093, in the city of Katy. The community offers 30acres of lakes, landscaped parks and trails, tennis courts and an 800-squarefoot air-conditioned recreation that features a swimming pool, shade structure, childrens wading pool and a childrens playscape. Homes are priced in the upper $100s to the $600s and feature
Greatwood
Greatwood is a 2,050-acre masterplanned golf community and home to the Carleton Gipson designed Greatwood Golf Club, which opened in 1990. Featuring miles of paved hike and bike trails, acres of greenbelts, lakes, lighted tennis courts, three neighborhood recreation centers, two competition swimming pools and one resort-style swimming pool, the community is located approximately 28 miles
Harrisburg / Manchester
Harrisburg was established just prior to 1825 but was officially named in 1826, when New York businessman John Richardson Harris named the town after
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himself. The city was then incorporated in 1837 and annexed to Houston in 1926. Located east of downtown Houston, Harrisburg is west of Bradys Island and south of the Brays Bayou and Buffalo Bayou junction. The area covers approximately 2.9 square miles with an estimated population of 3, 837 and is the zip codes 77012 and 77017. The area is served by the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org).
Inwood Forest
Established over thirty years ago, Inwood Forest is a community of over 1100 homes located in northwest Houston surrounding the Inwood Forest golf courses and 30 minutes from downtown Houston. The community has apartment complexes to the north and south, while many of the original homes that make up Inwood Forest were built for oil company executives. Many of these homes now occupy land that was once hunting grounds for Native Americans. Students are served by the Aldine Independent School District (www.aldine.k12.tx.us).
census population of approximately 2,330. Kemah is a Recreation and tourism destination, especially with Houston locals, who often visit the many attractions and restaurants in the Kemah Entertainment District. Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd.net) serves students. (www.kemah-tx.gov)
Kingwood
Kingwood is a master-planned community created in 1970 by Friendswood Development Company. Known as the Livable Forest, Kingwood is famous for the 75 miles of greenbelt trails that comb the area where residents can enjoy hiking and biking through the woods along the lake and into the nature reserve. The city is divided into 25 neighborhoods called villages. Each village has its own distinct style, varying home prices, private neighborhood pools and other amenities. Located on US Highway 59 North and Kingwood Drive, it is 24 miles northeast of downtown Houston. The community is situated on 15,000+ acres and is home to the worlds largest Country Club, The Clubs of Kingwood, which offers six championship golf courses and more than 1,000 acres of fairways. Home prices range from $160,000 to over $1 million and include builders such as Lennar, Frontier Custom Builders, Village Builders, Highland Homes, Brickland Homes, Jaeger Homes and Rueby Custom Homes. Current population is estimated at 65,000 and is expected to climb to 70,000 once build out of the community is complete with approximately 20,000 homes. The Humble Independent School District (www. humble.k12.tx.us) serves Kingwood. (www.kingwoodonline.com)
High Meadow Estates

High Meadow Estates features one to ten acre home sites amidst beautiful rolling terrain, with stands of large oak trees lining the streets and covering the land. Amenities include a proposed Towne Center with a community pool, pavilion, tennis courts, jogging and bike trails. Homeowners enjoy easy access to shopping, recreation, and other amenities in nearby Magnolia, Tomball, and The Woodlands. Students are served by the Magnolia Independent School District (www.magnoliaisd.org). (www.highmeadowtexas.com)
Katy
Katy is located on Interstate Highway 10 and U.S. Highway 90 at the intersection of Harris, Fort Bend and Waller counties. Conveniently located 30 miles from the hustle and bustle of downtown Houston, Katy offers the appeal of small town suburbia and close distance to Houston area businesses and recreational destinations. Housing options range from apartments and condominiums to complete living communities with water front and golf course properties. School districts in the area are nationally recognized for their educational programs. Students in Katy are zoned for the Katy Independent School District (www.katyisd.org), which, in 2010 had an enrollment of 60,977 students over a 181 square mile area. Katy has a growing population of approximately 14,000. (www.katytexas.com)
Humble
Humble is in the northeast area of Harris County and covers approximately 10 square miles. According to the 2000 Census, Humble was comprised of 14, 579 people, 5,460 households and 3,652 families. The median income for a household was $37, 834 and the median income for a family was $46,399. The Humble Independent School District (www.humble.k12.tx.us) consists of 38 schools, more than 35,000 students and over 2,800 teachers. Humble ISD is nationally recognized for the outstanding education it offers to students. Humble ISD is listed among the 25 fastest growing school districts in Texas. Humble is named after one of the areas earliest settlers, Pleasant Smith Plez Humble. From his home, he opened and operated the citys first post office and reportedly was an attorney, served as justice of the peace, operated a fruit stand and was a wood dealer.
Kemah
Located on Galveston Bay, approximately 25 minutes south of Houston and 25 minutes north of Galveston, Kemah gets its name from the Indian word meaning wind in my face. Kemah was originally a small fishing town and commercial fishing is still part of Kemahs identity as is evident by the annual Blessing of the Fleet. The city is approximately 1.8 square miles with a 2000
Lake Houston Area

Located in the northeast quadrant of the Houston metropolitan area, just 21 miles from downtown on Highway 59, the greater Lake Houston Area includes Atascocita, the City of Humble, Kingwood and Spring, all of which are currently
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experiencing robust population and economic growth. Encompassing nearly 100 square miles of land in northeast Harris County, the area is largely forested. Due to its natural beauty, the recreation of Lake Houston and the San Jacinto River, the proximity of Bush Intercontinental Airport and the Port of Houston, and the quality of its many subdivisions, the area has proven to be a strong attraction to newcomers. offers 2,000 linear feet of sandy beaches, walking trails and seating, as well as a fishing pier and boat launch. City parks include a wave pool and a bayside park with its own fishing pier. Visitors and residents may enjoy the 18-hole La Porte Bay Forest Golf Course and the La Porte Recreation and Fitness Center is open to all. Newly enhanced hike and bike trails extend throughout the city, and the La Porte Youth Baseball Complex and Leisure Park hosts players year-round. Students are served by the La Porte Independent School District (sc.lpisd.org). (www.ci.la-porte.tx.us) the third largest pleasure boat anchorage in the United States with four marinas that host over 7,000 boats. The city has been designated one of the 100 Best Small Cities in America, has more than 620 acres of public parks, three golf courses and the 11,343 square foot Johnny Arolfo Civic Center. Depending on location, students are served by either the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd. net) or the Dickinson Independent School District (www.dickinsonisd.org). (www.leaguecity.com)
La Marque
La Marque, is an incorporated residential community on Interstate Highway 45, State Highway 3, and Farm roads 519, 1765, and 2004, about twelve miles northwest of Galveston in northwest Galveston County. The community was originally known as Highlands, probably for its location near Highland Creek, and was renamed in the 1890s when residents learned of another mainland community of the same name. Madam St. Ambrose, postmistress, chose the new name, which in French means the mark. The area encompasses approximately 14.3 square miles and had a 2000 census population of 13,682 with 5,237 households. Most of La Marque is served by La Marque Independent School District (66.60.230.134), however, some small portions are served by the Dickinson Independent School District (www.dickinsonisd.org), Hitchcock Independent School District (www.hitchcockisd.org), and the Santa Fe Independent School District (www.sfisd.org). (www.ci.la-marque.tx.us)
Memorial
Memorial is a wealthy area of Houston located along the Buffalo Bayou on Interstate 610 and west of downtown. The area is the home of Memorial Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. The park is popular for its golf, running and cycle courses and has upwards of 3 million visitors each year. Within Memorial is an area called The Villages, which includes the cities of Bunker Hill Village, Hedwig Village, Spring Valley Village, Hilshire Village, Piney Point Village, and Hunters Creek Village. Popular attractions in the area are the Memorial City Mall, Town & Country Village, the lifestyle center, and the CityCentre.
Lake Conroe
With a slogan of Live and work, but mostly play, the neighborhoods of Lake Conroe have become sources of the most sought after residential real estate in the Houston metropolitan area. With a population of over 56,000, the citys size has more than doubled since 2000. The lake extends about 21 miles in length and covers over 20,000 acres. The citys historic downtown is a place for late-night fun and live music with numerous theaters, pubs, and lakeside restaurants. The city is home to the Sam Houston National Forest, W. Goodrich Jones State Forest, and 21 city parks. Housing options range from traditional neighborhood homes to luxurious lakefront condominiums. Lake Conroe is located in Montgomery county, a recognized leader in the Gulf Coast area and throughout Texas for academic excellence and innovative learning concepts. (www. gcedc.org, www.lakeconroecvb.org)
Midtown
Midtown is one of the most up and coming sectors of downtown Houston and a popular choice for young and middle aged professionals to live. Priding itself as one of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods of Houston, Midtown is packed with high rise apartment buildings, restaurants and nightlife all within walking distance of its residents. Situated directly between Downtown and the Texas Medical Center with three of its own METRORail stations, location is a big attraction and reason to live in Midtown. (www.houstonmidtown.com)
La Porte / Bayshore
Founded in 1889 by French settlers, La Porte means The Door or A Gateway in reference to, what is know, the Houston Ship Channel. La Porte is located on Galveston Bay in Southeast Harris County and has an estimated population of 35,000. The city prides itself on its small town atmosphere, strong industry and economy, numerous parks and recreational activities. The newly renovated Sylvan Beach Park
League City
League City has experienced tremendous growth through the years. With a 2006 census estimate of 67,200, it surpassed Galveston as Galveston Countys largest city. Located approximately 23 miles southeast of Houston and the same distance from Galveston, League City is approximately 52.4 square miles and boasts
Montrose
Home to shopping, music venues, vintage historic residential
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architecture and the museum district, Montrose is one of the most eclectic areas in Houston. Established in 1911, this area has built up a strong identity over its long history. The Houston Museum District encompasses more than 50 cultural institutions, museums and art galleries; among them the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and the Contemporary Arts Museum, Houston which are located in south Montrose. In 2009 the American Planning Association named Montrose as one of the ten great neighborhoods in the United States.
styles range from stately Tudor homes to architecturally significant ranches. Old Braeswood should not be confused with Braeswood. (www.oldbraeswood.com)
Spring
Located in north Harris County, Spring is located approximated 20 miles north of Houston, just off IH 45. The area was originally inhabited by the Orcoquiza Indians, and later became a large farming community until Spring became an intersection for two railroad lines. Spring actually got its name from railroad workers, who, after arriving there after a harsh winter of laying tracks, claimed the area Camp Spring in honor of the more forgiving spring season. The word Camp was later dropped, giving the city it new identity. Spring is approximately 24 square miles with a reported 2000 census population of 36,385 people, 12,302 households, and 9,829 families. The Spring Independent School District (www. springisd.org) serves Spring and the surrounding area. The District is geographically divided into northeast and southwest areas by Interstate 45 and FM 1960. There is no incorporated town or city within the Districts 57.6 square miles. The District serves over 34,000 prekindergarten through twelfth-grade students in 36 schools.
River Oaks
Well known as one the most affluent and exclusive residential areas in all of Houston, River Oaks is home to over 14,000 residents. The community spans about 1,200 acres and is protected by very comprehensive building restrictions and high architectural standards which ensure that the area can never be invaded by multi-family housing or commercial structures. The median home has an appraised value of more than $1,000,000. River Oaks is south of Memorial Park/Rice Military, and just three miles west of downtown. Amenities and services include the historic River Oaks Theatre, the River Oaks Shopping Center, River Oaks Park, and the Bayou Bend Gardens. The River Oaks Country Club, located within the community on the northern end of River Oaks Boulevard, has a private golf course that was designed by world-class golf architect, Donald Ross.
Nassau Bay
Nassau Bay is a small suburban community approximately 1.7 square miles in size with an estimated population of about 4,200 whose history is deeply rooted in the space program. The community sits directly across from the Johnson Space Center and is surrounded on three sides by water, including Clear Lake, Clear Creek and Cow Bayou. With two marinas, three hotels with a combined total of 419 rooms several popular retail and entertainment establishments, the city receives approximately 2,700 tourist visitors each day. Nassau Bay also plays host to the popular Partners in Space each year in March. Students attend the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd.net). (www.nassaubay.com).
Sugar Land
With a population of over 80,000, Sugar Land is one of the fastest growing cities in Texas and most economically strong suburbs of Houston. It is located approximately 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston, and it recently replaced Galveston as the second most important city in the metropolitan area. Master-planned communities featuring golf-courses, country clubs, and lakes contribute to home values. The community offers exceptional schools, libraries, and civic organizations. Sugar Land was named Fittest City in Texas from 20042006. (www.ci.sugar-land.tx.us)
Seabrook
Located approximately 25 minutes south of downtown Houston and four miles from the Johnson Space Center, Seabrook is a unique waterfront community in the Clear Lake Bay Area halfway between Houston and Galveston. Residents can enjoy the 15 parks and 10 miles of hike and bike trails, stroll among antique and specialty shops in a quaint shopping district called Old Seabrook or can pelican watch at one of the areas on the Texas Birding Trail. Seabrook is approximately 21.5 square miles and had an estimated 2006 population of 11,182. Students are served by the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd.net). (www.ci.seabrook.tx.us)
Old Braeswood
Located inside the 610 Loop, west of the Texas Medical Center and Rice University, North of Reliant Park, east of West University Place and the neighborhood of Braeswood Place, lies the small but historic community of 314 private residences that make up Old Braeswood. Originally slated to be a country club type district in the late 1920s, it was actually developed in stages over the following thirty years, which is evident in the architectural differences in the homes. Their POA continues to be very active to ensure that these unique neighborhood characteristics remain intact. Home
Taylor Lake Village

Taylor Lake and Mud Lake serve as beautiful backdrops to the forested neighborhoods that make up this 1.4
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square mile quiet bedroom community. Taylor Lake Village was incorporated in 1961, has an estimated population of 4,000, shares a police force with El Lago, has the lowest crime rate in Harris County, anddoesnotallowbusinessestablishments within its corporate limits. Students are served by the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd.net). (www.taylorlakevillage.us) growth predicted in the years to come. The 19th Street Historic Business District offers a unique variety of specialty boutiques, antique shopping, and family dining. The Heights has its very own Arts and Crafts Market, offering visitors the opportunity to mingle with local artists and artisans on the first Saturday of every month. (www.houstonheights.org)
Webster
Despite its small size, the 6.7 square miles that comprise Webster are mighty in terms of commercial vibrancy. The city, founded in 1879 by James W. Webster and incorporated in 1958, is home to more than 2,200 businesses. It came into prominence when NASA built the Johnson Space Center, and has served as homes to several aerospace companies, including Ad Astra Rocket Company and Lockheed Martins Exploration Development Laboratory. Both the aerospace and medical fields continue to be two of the major Growth industries for Webster. The City serves as the central business district of Clear Lake. Webster has become renowned as the retail, dining, and entertainment capital of Bay Area Houston, the medical center of the south, and the aerospace capital of the southwest. Websters strategic location, key industry sectors, superregional market, and businessfriendly credo contribute to the Citys commercial vibrancy. Students are served by the Clear Creek Independent School District (www.ccisd.net). (www.cityofwebster.com)
The Galleria / Uptown

Uptown Houston is an area of urban sophistication, style, and cosmopolitan energy. Centrally located in the uptown district of Houston, the Galleria is comprised of upscale restaurants, shopping, hotels, and high-rise offices that exceed over 200,000 working professionals and visitors daily. Representing more than 11 percent of Houstons total office space, Uptown is the seventeenth-largest business district in the United States. Known as the center of Houstons high fashion scene, the Uptown/Galleria area features trendy shopping centers, upscale boutiques, as well as local highfashion designers and stores. Uptown is also host to Houstons largest hotels and boasts an array of housing options including upscale apartments, high-rise condominiums, cozy patio homes and spacious town houses. Luxurious subdivisions offer in-town estates with some of Houstons most esteemed addresses. The area is zoned for the Houston Independent School District (www. houstonisd.org). (www.uptown-houston.com)
The Woodlands
Nestled in 28,000 acres of native forest, the Woodlands, has been the best-selling community in Texas since 1990. Comprised of eight villages with a wide array of housing options, the community features family homes, estates, townhouses, urban lofts, apartments, and condominiums ranging anywhere from $100,000 to over $3,000,000. The Woodlands is home to the Woodlands Mall, the Woodlands Resort and Conference Center, the Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, and The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, a regional concert venue. Educational options are varied, with over 10 private schools and academies, 19 public schools, 25 preschools, as well as higher education at Montgomery College and The University Center. (thewoodlands.com)
West University
The third most expensive neighborhood in Houston, West University Place (West U), is a community of uppermiddle class families within the Houston metropolitan area. Often thought of as its own city inside of a city, West U operates its own fire department and police department. Currently, over 14,000 residents live in this city that spans over 1,200 residential acres. Every block includes unique bungalows, newly remodeled homes, as well as an abundance of upscale, beautiful housing options under construction. Housing options range in price from the $200,000s to over $2 million dollars. (www.gswhcc.org)
Third Ward
As one of the six historic wards of Houston, the Third Ward is located southeast of downtown Houston, to the east of the Texas Medical Center and is located inside the 610 Loop. Students are served by the Houston Independent School District (www.houstonisd.org) and the community is home to Texas Southern University and University of Houston. Although not specifically identified, the boundaries of the Third Ward are generally accepted as the area north of the Riverside Terrace community, North MacGregor Boulevard, and South MacGregor Boulevard.
The Heights
The Heights is Houstons oldest planned community located in northwest-central Houston. The Heights is known for its diverse population and small-town quality of life while still being in the heart of Houston. In addition to the older single-family homes, numerous high-rise and mid-rise condos are being developed in response to the tremendous population
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T Master Planned Communities

Aliana
Fort Bend 2000 acres $180,000-$1,000,000 + www.alianahouston.com/residential/?SID
Cross Creek Ranch

Fort Bend 400 $200,000 + www.crosscreektexas.com/
First Colony
Fort Bend 10000 $150,000-$1,000,000+ www.firstcolony.org/
Auburn Lakes
Montgomery 500 $190,000-$1,000,000 + auburnlakes.com/
Crown Ranch
Montgomery 7100 $300,000-$1,000,000+ www.crownranch.com/
Grand Lakes
Harris 1250 $150,000-$500,000 www.grandlakeslife.com/
Bentwater
Montgomery 1400 $300,000-$1,000,000+ www.bentwater.com/HomeBuilder/default.aspx
Cypress Creek Lakes

Harris 1600 $190,000-$600,000 www.cypresscreeklakes.com/
Grand Mission
Fort Bend $130,000-$340,000 www.grandmissiontexas.com/
Graystone Hills
Montgomery 331 $190,000-$600,000 www.graystonehills.com/
Bridgeland
Harris 11400 $160,000-$1,000,000 + www.bridgeland.com/
Discovery at Spring Trails

Montgomery 1150 $170,000-$400,000 www.discoveryatspringtrails.com/
Greatwood
Fort Bend $200,000-$500,000 www.greatwoodcommunity.com/
Canyon Gate at the Brazos

Fort Bend 600 $140,000-$400,000 www.canyongate.com/communities/
Eagle Springs
Harris 1300 $140,000-$500,000 www.eaglespringstx.com/homepagees.aspx
Harborwalk
Galveston $500,000-$1,000,000+ www.harborwalk.cc/home.html
Canyon Lakes at Stone Gate

Harris 1800 $130,000-$300,000 www.canyongate.com/communities/clwest/
Fairfield
Harris 3200 $140,000-$700,000 www.visitfairfield.com/
Imperial Oaks
Montgomery 1400 $320,000+ www.imperialoaks.com/
Cinco Ranch Fort Bend

Harris 7600 $170,000-$1,000,000 + www.cincoranch.com/
Falcon Ranch
Fort Bend 265 $166,000-$306,000 www.falconranchhoa.com/
Kingwood
Harris & Montgomery 15000 $160,000-$1,000,000+ www.kingwoodonline.com/
Clear Lake
Harris 16100 $130,000-$1,000,000 www.clearlakearea.com/
Fall Creek
Humble 2300 $150,000-$2,000,000 www.fallcreekhouston.com/
Lake Olympia
Fort Bend $150,000-$1,000,000+ lakeolympia.hoatx.org/
Coles Crossing
Harris 1500 $250,000-$1,000,000+ www.colescrossinghoa.com/
Fieldstone
Fort Bend 390 $170,000-$210,000 www.gehanhomes.com/ houston/communities/comm_fieldstone_c.html
Lakemont
Fort Bend 900 $150,000-$400,000 www.visitlakemont.com/
Copperfield
Harris 2000 $80,000-$250,000 www.copperfield.org/
Firethorne
Fort Bend 1400 $140,000-$800,000 www.firethorne.info/
Lakes of Bella Terra

Fort Bend 670 $160,000-$1,000,000+ www.lakesofbellaterra.com/
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Lakes of Mission Grove

Fort Bend 676 missiongrovecommunity.com/
$150,000-$1,000,000+ www.shadowcreekranch.net/
Telfair
Fort Bend 2000 $250,000-$1,000,000+ www.telfair.com/
Sienna Plantation
Fort Bend 10560 $160,000-$1,000,000+ www.siennaplantation.com/
Lakes of Savannah
Brazoria 1425 $140,000-$300,000 www.lakesofsavannah.com/
The Falls at Imperial Oaks

Harris 1516 $160,000-$300,000 www.fallsatimperialoaks.com/
Silver Lake
Brazoria 1800 $150,000-$1,000,000 www.silverlakeonline.com/
Long Meadow Farms

Fort Bend 1400 $140,000-$500,000+ www.longmeadowfarms.net/
The Woodlands
Harris & Montgomery 28000 $120,000-$2,000,000+ www.thewoodlands.com/
Silvercreek
Brazoria 290 $180,000-$350,000 www.trendmakerhomes.com/communities/ silvercreek
New Territory
Fort Bend 3200 $150,000-$500,000 www.newterritory.org/
Towne Lake
Harris 2400 $200,000-$600,000 www.townelaketexas.com/
South Shore Harbour

Harris 2200 $150,000-$1,000,000+ www.southshoreharbour.com/home.html
Park Lakes
Harris 1500 $100,000-$400,000 www.canyongate.com/communities/park/
Tuscan Lakes
Galveston 870 $150,000-$1,000,000 www.tuscanlakes.com/
Southern Trails Brazoria

523 $150,000-$500,000 www.southern-trails.com/
Quail Valley
Fort Bend 2350 $100,000-$350,000 www.quailvalleyproud.com/
West Ranch
Galveston 766 $290,000-$800,000 www.visitwestranch.com/
Spring Lakes
Montgomery 250 $130,000-$270,000 www.springlakes.net/
River Park West

Fort Bend 545 $200,000-$400,000 www.river-park-west.com/
Westheimer Lakes
Fort Bend 592 $130,000-$300,000 www.canyongate.com/communities/west/
Spring Trails
Montgomery 400 $150,000+ www.springtrails.com/
Riverstone
Fort Bend 3700 $200,000-$1,000,000+ www.riverstone.com/
Weston Lakes
Fort Bend 1400 $200,000-$3,000,000 www.wlakes.com/
Sterling Lakes Brazoria

274 $130,000-$300,000 www.canyongate.com/communities/sterling/
Rodeo Palms
Brazoria 600 $120,000-$250,000 www.texasexplorer.com/RodeoPalms.htm
Windrose
Harris 1121 $150,000-$700,000 www.windroseca.org/
Stone Gate
Harris 1800 $130,000-$400,000 www.canyongate.com/communities/stonegate/
Seven Meadows
Fort Bend 1050 $200,000-$600,000 www.sevenmeadowslive.com/
WoodCreek Reserve
Harris 500 $250,000-$1,000,000+ www.woodcreekreserve.com/
Summerwood
Harris 1500 $140,000+ www.summerwoodtx.com/
Woodforest
Montgomery 3000 $200,000-$1,000,000+ www.woodforestdev.com Source: Houston Association of Realtors greater houston partnership | houston.org
Shadow Creek Ranch

Brazoria 3500
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Health Care
Live within minutes of the worlds finest health care.
Ask Houstonians what they like most about living in Houston, and chances are, one of the things theyll mention is medical care. From the worldrenowned Texas Medical Center south of downtown to fine community hospitals in outlying areas, Houston boasts medical facilities and expertise second to none. The citys hospitals are routinely ranked among the top in the nation, and many Houston doctors and surgeons are considered number one in their fields.
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health care
Meet Your New PCP.

Allow us to introduce you to your new doctor someone who knows you and not just by name. Someone who knows your complete medical history from your blood type to the last time you had a tetanus shot to whether or not youre at risk for heart disease. Studies prove that having a Primary Care Physician (PCP) leads to early detection of health problems and an overall higher quality of care. And a doctor affiliated with Memorial Hermann can give you direct access to their extensive network of specialty and emergency care. Just call 713.222.CARE or visit meetyourpcp.com to start building your relationship with a PCP affiliated with Memorial Hermann. Its time you and your doctor got to know each other.
123
ith 5.5 million patient visits a yearmany
from outside the United Statesthe Texas Medical Center has 46 not-for-profit member institutions providing patient care, cutting-
texas childrens hospital

The nations largest pediatric hospital, Texas Childrens Hospital is also ranked as the fifth best pediatric hospital in the U.S. (U.S. News and World Report, 2006).
edge research, and education for medical and nursing students. Beyond its impact on health care, the Texas Medical Center is Houstons largest single-site employer, with more than 73,000 employees. Hospitals include Memorial Hermann (memorialhermann.org), the primary teaching hospital for the University of Texas Medical School in Houston and a
each year, and through an affiliation with Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, patients have access to the expertise of more than 320 physicians in more than fifty specialties and subspecialties practicing at eighteen locations throughout the Houston area. Texas Childrens Hospital (texaschildrenshospital.com) is internationally recognized for exceptional comprehensive care and trailblazing research. Consistently ranked among the nations top ten pediatric hospitals, Texas Childrens, in affiliation with Houstons renowned Baylor College of Medicine, ranks first in National Institute of Health (NIH) research funding for pediatric hospitals, participating in more than four hundred groundbreaking research projects.
Level I trauma center. Memorial Hermann Healthcare System operates hospitals in Katy, Fort Bend County, The Woodlands, Memorial City and the northwest, southeast and southwest areas of Houston. The Methodist Hospital (methodisthealth.com), for sixty years the home of internationally acclaimed heart surgeon Michael DeBakey, is among the countrys top centers for otolaryngology, neurology/neurosurgery, ophthalmology, gynecology, heart surgery, psychiatry and urology. One of the top ten heart centers in the country, the Texas Heart Institute of St. Lukes Episcopal Health System (sleh.com) is where the first heart transplant in the United States was performed, thanks to the pioneering work of Dr. Denton Cooley. St. Lukes cares for more than half a million patients The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (mdanderson.org) is ranked as the nations top cancer hospital in U.S. News and World Reports 2008 list of Americas Best Hospitals and has ranked as one of the top two hospitals for cancer care for nineteen years, since the magazine began its
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memorial hermann hospital

Opened in 1907, Memorial Hermann was the second hospital to operate a civilian air ambulance service in the United States. Its first LifeFlight mission was in 1976.
80 skilled-care facilities and about 30 independent-living communities. Some of the notable facilities are the Buckingham Terrace Parkway at (buckinghamhouston.com), West University Treemont and (treemont.com), Clarewood House (clarewoodhouse.com), (terraceliving.com) Place (bucknerretirement.org/houston-home.
shtml). Additionally, home health care is provided through a number of organizations, such as Sheltering Arms (shelteringarms.org).
Pet Care
annual survey in 1990. Many of the advances that have pushed the combined five-year survival rate for all cancers to 66 percent were initiated at M. D. Anderson. Today its new Proton Therapy Center is making great strides in treating many types of cancer by directing highly targeted radiation to cancerous tissue while sparing healthy tissue. Houstonians take to pets in a big way, so its no surprise that you can find every pet service and activity imaginable, from doggie day spas to pet training, pet get-togethers (yappy hour) and dedicated rescue groups for countless breeds and all types of four-footed friends. Regardless of where they live, Houston pet lovers are never far from exceptional veterinary care. Many of Houstons veterinarians are graduates of the renowned College of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M University, one of the top veterinary schools in the country.
Senior Care
The Houston area has an abundance of services for the elderly, including more than 280 assisted-living facilities,
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health care
Rankings
oustons hospitals consistently rank among the nations
top institutions. To qualify for U.S. News and World Reports rankings, a hospital has to be affiliated with a medical school, belong to the Council of Teaching Hospitals, or offer a wide array of advanced services, such as robotic
T Physician Referral Services

Baylor Family Medicine Clinic
baylorfamilymedicine.org 713-798-7700
surgery and image-guided radiation therapy. The Texas Heart Institute at St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital has been listed as one of U.S. News and World Reports top ten hospitals in heart and heart surgery for eighteen consecutive years. In addition Memorial HermannTexas Medical Center was one of fifteen major hospitals to receive Thomas Healthcares 2006 performance leader award. And St. Lukes Episcopal Health Systems NeuroScience Center was named a Center of Excellence by the 20062007 Neuroscience Center of Excellence Survey.
Baylor-Methodist Primary Care Associations

methodisthealth.com 713-790-3333
HCA Houston
hcahouston.com 713-852-1500
Kelsey-Seybold Clinic
kelsey-seybold.com 713-442-0000
Memorial Hermann Healthcare System

mhhs.org/services/physiciansrch.html 713-222-2273
The Methodist Hospital System

methodisthealth.com 713-790-3333
Cancer
1 University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center 29 The Methodist Hospital
Neurology & Neurosurgery

13 The Methodist Hospital 27 St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital
St. Joseph Medical Center

sjmctx.com 713-757-1000
Digestive Disorders
16 The Methodist Hospital 23 University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center 28 St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital
Ophthalmology
13 The Methodist Hospital
St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital

stlukestexas.com 832-355-4343
Orthopedics
29 The Methodist Hospital 40 Texas Orthopedics Hospital
Tenet Health
tenethealth.com 800-743-6333
Ear, Nose & Throat

Psychiatry
9 The Menninger Clinic 22 The Methodist Hospital
Texas Childrens Hospital

texaschildrenshospital.org/findadoctor/default.asp 832-824-1111
Geriatrics
28 The Methodist Hospital 41 St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital
Rehabilitation
4 Memorial Hermann Hospital (TIRR)
Gynecology
Respiratory Disorders
37 St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital 22 The Methodist Hospital
Texas Childrens Pediatric Associates

texaschildrenspediatrics.org 832-824-2999
Diabetes & Endocrinology Disorders

29 St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital 24 The Methodist Hospital 41 University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
Rheumatology
23 The Methodist Hospital
University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center

mdanderson.org/patients_public 800-392-1611
Urology
9 University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center 13 The Methodist Hospital 25 St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital 50 Memorial Hermann Hospital
Source: U.S. News & World Report, 2010
Heart & Heart Surgery

5 St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital 19 The Methodist Hospital
UT Physicians
utphysicians.com 888-4UT-DOCS
Kidney Disorders
27 The Methodist Hospital 36 Memorial Hermann Hospital 40 St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital
UTMB Hospitals
utmbhealthcare.org/directory 409-772-1011
127
T Hospitals
23. Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center

281-890-4285 10655 Steepletop Drive Houston, TX 77065
1. Acuity Hospital of Houston

281-921-5300 2001 Hermann Drive Houston, TX 77004
12. Childrens Hospital

409-772-1011 820 Market Street Galveston, TX 77555
24. Devereux Texas Treatment Network

281-335-1000 1150 Devereux Drive League City, TX 77573-2043
2. Alvin Diagnostic & Urgent Care Center

281-331-6141 301 Medic Lane Alvin, TX 77511
13. Childrens Memorial Hermann Hospital

713-704-5437 6411 Fannin Houston, TX 77030
25. Doctors Diagnostic Hospital

281-622-2900 1017 S. Travis Cleveland, TX 77327
26. Doctors Hospital Parkway

281-765-2600 233 W. Parker Road Houston, TX 77076-2915
3. Angleton Danbury Medical Center

979-849-7721 132 Hospital Drive Angleton, TX 77515
14. CHRISTUS St. Catherine Health and Wellness Center

281-599-5700 701 S. Fry Katy, TX 77450
27. Doctors Hospital Tidwell

281-618-8500 510 W. Tidwell Houston, TX 77091
4. Apex Hospital Katy

281-392-5700 25660 Kingsland Boulevard Katy, TX 77494
15. CHRISTUS St. John Hospital

281-333-5503 18300 St. John Drive Nassau Bay, TX 77058-6302
28. Dubuis Hospital of Houston

713-756-8660 1919 La Branch Houston, TX 77002
5. Bayshore Medical Center

713-359-2000 4000 Spencer Highway Pasadena, TX 77504
16. Clear Lake Regional Medical Center

281-332-2511 500 Medical Center Boulevard Webster, TX 77598
29. East Houston Regional Medical Center

713-393-2000 13111 East Freeway Houston, TX 77015-5803
6. Bayside Community Hospital

409-267-3143 200 Hospital Drive Anahuac, TX 77514
17. Clear Lake Rehabilitation Hospital

281-286-1500 655 E. Medical Center Boulevard Webster, TX 77598
30. First St. Hospital

713-665-1111 4801 Bissonnet Boulevard Bellaire, TX 77401
7. Behavior and Rehabilitation Hospital of Bellaire

713-600-9509 5314 Dashwood Houston, TX 77081
18 Cleveland Regional Medical Center

281-593-1811 300 E. Crockett Street Cleveland, TX 77327
31. Foundation Surgical Hospital

713-314-4444 5410 West Loop S. Bellaire, TX 77401
8. Bellville General Hospital

979-865-3141 44 N. Cummings Bellville, TX 77418
19. Conroe Regional Medical Center

936-539-1111 504 Medical Center Boulevard Conroe, TX 77304-2808
32. Healthbridge Childrens Hospital

281-293-7774 2929 Woodland Park Drive Houston, TX 77082-2687
9. Ben Taub General Hospital

713-873-2000 1504 Taub Loop Houston, TX 77030
20. Cornerstone Hospital of Houston Bellaire

713-295-5300 5314 Dashwood Houston, TX 77081
33. HealthSouth Hospital for Specialized Surgery

713-528-6800 5445 La Branch Houston, TX 77004
10. Brazosport Regional Health System

979-297-4411 100 Medical Drive Lake Jackson, TX 77566
21. Cornerstone Hospital of Houston Clear Lake

281-332-3322 709 Medical Center Boulevard Webster, TX 77598
34. HealthSouth Hospital of Houston

281-580-1212 17506 Red Oak Drive Houston, TX 77090
11. Cambridge International Management, Inc.

713-790-1153 7505 Fannin, Suite 510 Houston, TX 77054-1913
22. Cypress Creek Hospital

281-586-7600 17750 Cali Drive Houston, TX 77090-2700
35. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital

281-446-6148 19002 McKay Drive Humble, TX 77338-5701
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health care
36. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of North Houston

281-364-2000 18550 Interstate 45 South Conroe, TX 77384
48. Kindred Hospital Houston Northwest

281-897-8114 11297 Fallbrook Drive Houston, TX 77065
55. Memorial Hermann Hospital

713-704-4000 6411 Fannin Houston, TX 77030-1501
49. Kingwood Medical Center

281-348-8000 22999 U.S. Highway 59 Kingwood, TX 77339
37. Houston Northwest Medical Center

281-440-1000 710 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77090-3402
56. Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital

281-644-7000 23900 Katy Freeway Katy, TX 77494
50. Kingwood Pines Hospital

281-358-1495 2001 Ladbrook Drive Kingwood, TX 77339
38. Houston Physicians Hospital

281-335-1700 333 N. Texas Avenue Webster, TX 77598
57. Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center

713-932-3000 921 Gessner Houston, TX 77024
51. Kingwood Specialty Hospital

281-312-4000 300 Kingwood Medical Drive Humble, TX 77339
39. ICON Hospital

281-883-5500 19211 McKay Drive Humble, TX 77338
40. The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research

713-799-5000 1333 Moursund Street Houston, TX 77030-3405
41. Intracare Medical Center Hospital

st. lukes episcopal hospital

Offering a wide range of cardiovascular services, this 10-story, 325,000 square-foot building has been involved in every major development in cardiovascular surgery since 1944.
42. Intracare North Hospital

281-893-7200 1120 Cypress Station Houston, TX 77090
43. Jennie Sealy Hospital

409-772-3584 301 University Boulevard Galveston, TX 77555-0460
44. John Sealy Hospital

45. Katy Rehabilitation Hospital

281-579-5678 21720 Kingsland Boulevard Katy, TX 77450
52. Liberty-Dayton Community Hospital

936-336-7316 1353 N. Travis Street Liberty, TX 77575
58. Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital

281-540-7700 18951 Memorial North Humble, TX 77338
46. Kindred Hospital Bay Area

713-473-9700 1004 Seymour Pasadena, TX 77506
53. Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital

713-566-5000 5656 Kelley Street Houston, TX 77026
59. Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital

713-867-2000 1635 North Loop W. Houston, TX 77008-1532
47. Kindred Hospital Houston

713-790-0500 6441 S. Main Houston, TX 77030
54. Mainland Medical Center

409-938-5000 6801 Emmett F. Lowry Expressway Texas City, TX 77590-2500
60. Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital

281-929-6100 11800 Astoria Boulevard Houston, TX 77089-6098 greater houston partnership | houston.org
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T Hospitals
75. Physical Rehabilitation Hospital of Bellaire

281-207-8200 11929 W. Airport Boulevard Stafford, TX 77477
61. Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital

713-456-5808 7600 Beechnut Houston, TX 77074-4302
68. Methodist Willowbrook Hospital

281-477-1000 18220 Tomball Parkway Houston, TX 77070-4347
76. Plaza Specialty Hospital

713-285-1000 1300 Binz Houston, TX 77004
62. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital

281-499-4800 17500 W. Grand Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479
69. Nexus Specialty Hospital Shenandoah Campus

281-364-0317 123 Vision Park Boulevard Shenandoah, TX 77384
77. Quentin Mease Community Hospital

713-873-3700 3601 N. MacGregor Houston, TX 77030
63. Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital Kingwood

281-312-4000 300 Kingwood Medical Drive Kingwood, TX 77339
70. Nexus Specialty Hospital The Woodlands

281-364-0317 9182 Six Pines Drive The Woodlands, TX 77380-3606
78. Reliant Rehabilitation Hospital North Houston

936-444-1700 117 Vision Park Boulevard Conroe, TX 77384-3606
71. North Cypress Medical Center

832-912-3773 21214 Northwest Freeway Cypress, TX 77429
64. Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital

281-364-2300 9250 Pinecroft The Woodlands, TX 77380-3218
79. Renaissance Hospital

713-697-7777 2807 Little York Road Houston, TX 77093-3405
72. Oak Bend Medical Center

281-341-3000 1705 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469-3246
80. Riverside General Hospital

713-526-2441 3204 Ennis Street Houston, TX 77004-3213
65. Menninger Clinic

713-275-5000 2801 Gessner Drive Houston, TX 77080
81. St. Joseph Medical Center

713-757-1000 1401 St. Joseph Parkway Houston, TX 77002-8393
82. St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital trevisio restaurant

In addition to outstanding hospitals, the Texas Medical Center is also home to Trevisio Restaurant, an upscale Italian restaurant. 832-355-1000 6720 Bertner Houston, TX 77030-2697
83. St. Lukes Sugar Land Hospital

281-637-7000 1317 Lake Point Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479
84. St. Lukes The Woodlands Hospital

936-266-2000 17200 St. Lukes Way Conroe, TX 77384
85. San Jacinto Methodist Hospital

281-420-8600 4401 Garth Road Baytown, TX 77521-3160
66. Methodist Hospital

713-790-3311 6560 Fannin Houston, TX 77030-2707
73. Park Plaza Hospital

713-527-5000 1313 Hermann Drive Houston, TX 77004
86. Select Specialty Hospital Houston Heights

713-861-6161 1917 Ashland Houston, TX 77008-3946
67. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

281-274-7000 16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479-2343
74. Patients Medical Center

713-948-7050 4600 E. Sam Houston Parkway South Pasadena, TX 77505
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health care
87. Select Specialty Hospital Houston Medical Center

713-861-6161 6447 Main Street Houston, TX 77030-1595
99. Texas Specialty Hospital of Houston

713-640-2400 6160 South Loop E. Houston, TX 77087-1010
112. University General Hospital

100. Tomball Regional Hospital

281-401-7500 605 Holderrieth Street Tomball, TX 77375
88. Select Specialty Hospital Houston West

713-861-6161 9430 Old Katy Road Houston, TX 77055
113. The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center

713-792-2121 1515 Holcombe Boulevard Houston, TX 77030-4095
101. Tops Surgical Specialty Hospital

281-539-2900 17080 Red Oak Drive Houston, TX 77090
89. Shriners Burns Hospital Galveston

409-770-6600 815 Market Street Galveston, TX 77550-2725
114. The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

102. Triumph Hospital

713-807-8686 7333 North Freeway Houston, TX 77076
115. Veterans Affairs Medical Center

713-791-1414 2002 Holcombe Boulevard Houston, TX 77030
90. Shriners Hospital for Children

713-797-1616 6977 Main Street Houston, TX 77030-3701
103. Triumph Hospital Baytown

713-691-6556 1700 James Bowie Drive Baytown, TX 77520
116. Vista Medical Center Hospital

713-378-3000 4301-B Vista Pasadena, TX 77504-2117
91. Solara Hospital Conroe

682-831-9670 1500 Grand Lake Drive Conroe, TX 77034
104. Triumph Hospital Central Houston

713-529-8922 105 Drew Street Houston, TX 77006
117. West Houston Medical Center

281-558-3444 12141 Richmond Avenue Houston. TX 77082-2408
92. Spring Branch Medical Center

713-467-6555 8850 Long Point Road Houston, TX 7705
105. Triumph Hospital Clear Lake

713-691-6556 350 Blossom Street Webster, TX 77598
118. West Oaks Hospital

713-995-0909 6500 Hornwood Drive Houston, TX 77074
93. Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital

281-276-7599 1325 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478
106. Triumph Hospital East Houston

713-807-8686 15101 East Freeway Channelview, TX 77530
119. West Pavillion

713-790-0790 6447 Main Houston, TX 77030
94. Sugar Land Surgical Hospital

281-243-1000 1211 Highway 6, Suite 70 Sugar Land, TX 77478
107. Triumph Hospital North Houston

713-691-6556 7407 North Freeway Houston, TX 77076-2999
120. Winnie Community Hospital

409-296-6000 538 Broadway Winnie, TX 77665
95. Surgery Specialty Hospitals of America Southeast Houston

713-378-3069 4301-B Vista Pasadena, TX 77504
108. Triumph Hospital Northwest

832-249-2700 205 Hollow Tree Lane Houston, TX 77090-2801
121. The Womans Hospital of Texas

96. Sweeny Community Hospital

979-548-3311 305 N. McKinney Street Sweeny, TX 77480-2801
109. Triumph Hospital Southwest

281-275-6000 1550 First Colony Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479
97. Texas Childrens Hospital

110. Triumph Hospital Tomball

281-255-5600 505 Graham Drive Tomball, TX 77375
98. Texas Orthopedic Hospital

713-794-3498 7401 S. Main Houston, TX 77030
111. Triumph Hospital Town and Country

281-275-6000 1120 Business Center Drive Houston, TX 77043
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Greater Houston Region Hospitals
71 23
TO
8 56 14 4
45 117
94 93 109 67
72 62
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TO
19 69 22 101 37 34 84 42 108 35 58 39 36 70 91 64 78 91
TO
18 50
25 51
49 63
TO
100 110
48
107 102 27 26 79
TO
52
65
53 59 86
111 57 32
92 29 76 106
88
114
TO
28
85
103 120 105 81
118 112
31 20 7 30
82
66
55
80 33 47 119 73 97 116 99 5 77 46
9 90 98 112 13 1
40 87 41 121
61
11
75 95 116 74
60
TO
2
12 44
24 54
43 89
TO
15
16
TO
10
96
38 114 17
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Fitness
Exercise your options for good health.
Getting a workout and staying in shape just seems to be easier in Houston than in other cities. Being a southern city, Houston enjoys mild winters that allow for outdoor activities essentially twelve months of the year. To that end there are hundreds of miles of hike-and-bike trails, and even neighborhoods provide picturesque environments for early morning or evening walks, runs, or rides. Fitness centers abound as well, from exclusive private clubs like the Houstonian, the Houston City Club and the Houston Racquet Club and nationally franchised centers like 24 Hour Fitness and Bally Total Fitness to local YMCAs and independent fitness facilities. Many of these facilities offer a wide range of options for fitness and exercise, including yoga, pilates, racquetball, karate, jazzercise, spinning, swimming, basketball, weight training and more.
With an abundance of tree-lined streets and parks Houston Heights is a great place for early morning or afternoon runs.
houston heights
134
fitness
135
wo of the most popular jogging trails make their
and over 150 neighborhood courts. The citys three main tennis centers are Homer Ford in MacGregor Park (5225 Calhoun Road, 713-842-3460); Memorial (1500 Memorial Loop in Memorial Park, 713-867-0440); and Lee LeClear in southwest Houston (9506 South Gessner, 713-272-3697). There are also an abundance of private tennis clubs and country clubs throughout Houston that maintain both indoor and outdoor courts of varying surfaces. Other private fitness and exercise facilities exist as resident amenities in many apartment complexes, hi-rise condominiums, gated communities, and private neighborhoods. Ask your realtor for specific details in the areas of the city you may be interested in.
way around the outer perimeters of both Memorial Park and Rice University. The Seymour Lieberman Exercise Trail at Memorial Park is a
2.93-mile crushed granite and packed-earth jogging trail which is lighted and has restrooms and water fountains along the way. The trail around Rice University is also approximately three miles in length and follows a picturesque, oak-tree-shaded path within the vibrant area in which the campus lies adjacent to West University neighborhoods, the Texas Medical Center and Hermann Park. The trail is not lighted and there are no restrooms or water fountains. The Houston Parks and Recreation Department (houstontx. gov/parks) oversees 350 parks and more than 200 green spaces, along with nearly a hundred miles of hike-and-bike trails. The Harris County Park System website (www.hctx.net/parks) provides detailed information and maps of parks as varied as the Armand Bayou Nature Center, Bear Creek Pioneers Park, George Bush Park and Terry Hershey Park. If tennis is your game, youll find three major tennis centers
The Houston Parks and Recreation Department (houstontx.gov/ parks) oversees 350 parks and more than 200 green spaces, along with nearly a hundred miles of hike-andbike trails.
buffalo bayou park

Buffalo Bayou Park near downtown is a popular spot for joggers.
136
Your home.Our expertise.

137
Dining
Savor the flavors of a city with international flair.
With a population as ethnically diverse as Houstons, it stands to reason that an eclectic restaurant scene would emerge to reflect that diversity. And thats exactly what has happened. In fact, Houston has become a food lovers paradise. Name any country and most likely there is a restaurant in the Houston area that serves delectable dishes from back home.
tacos a go-go
hugh hargrave
Serving some of the most authentic Tex-Mex in Houston, this funky midtown restaurant is also known for its casual atmosphere and good prices.
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dining
139
deans credit clothing

Once a 1930s department store, this stylish bar still offers vintage apparel for sale and is located in the heart of the historic district.
Local dining establishments feature a virtual smorgasbord of flavors you owe it to yourself to experience. Bon apptit!
Anthonys he great restaurants in Houston come in all
Local favorites for exceptional dining include Tonys, Cafe Annie, Pappas Ninos, Bistro, Bros. Carrabbas, Mockingbird Brenners, Steakhouse,
the Raven Grill, Ouisies Table and Prego. Popular national Smith and restaurants Wollensky, Vic and Houstonians enjoy include Mortons,
Steakhouse, the Capital Grille, Sullivans
Steakhouse, P.F. Changs China Bistro and many more. Other local establishments feature Gulf Coast seafood, Mexican, Chinese, Indian, French, Italian, Persian, Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean, Hunan, Puerto Rican, Brazilian, Peruvian and Argentinean cuisinea virtual smorgasbord of flavors you owe it to yourself to experience. Bon apptit!
Just half a block from Market Square, this sophisticated jazz venue is housed in a narrow brick building that dates back to Houstons early days. Its French Quarter atmosphere and blues and jazz sounds showcase the good times in the born-again downtown.
price ranges and all shapes and sizes and are found in all areas and neighborhoods around town. With such a vast and varied
assortment of fine eateries from which to choose, many Houstonians rely on word of mouth and the recommendations of trusted friends to make their selections. Yet reliable restaurant guides are available throughout the city and online. As Houston continues to grow, new restaurants are sure to follow.
red cat jazz cafe
140
dining
141
Shopping
Why the world comes to Houston to shop.
Houston is indeed a shopping mecca. From lavish malls like the Galleria and Memorial City to storefront neighborhoods like Post Oak, Highland Village, Uptown Park, River Oaks Shopping Center and Rice Village, Houstons shopping scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself.
the galleria
The Houston region is a shopping mecca with its countless options ranging from the Galleria, home to the areas only Nordstrom, to eclectic shops in the Heights and antiques in nearby Roundtop.
142
shopping
143
144
shopping
eiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Macys, Brooks
Brothers, Tiffany & Co. and Saks Fifth Avenue all have stores here. For everything you need to decorate your new Houston home, theres
Crate and Barrel, Williams Sonoma, Restoration Hardware, IKEA, Pottery Barn and much more. Houston Pavilions in downtown offers more than just shopping, with great dining and entertainment all in one convenient, stylish spot. Visit Katy Mills Outlet Mall on Interstate 10 in Katy for bargain shopping. Both Conroe and Cypress boast outlet malls with their own bargains. For groceries, many Houstonians like Central Market, Whole Foods, H-E-B, Costco, Rice Epicurean, Kroger Signature stores and the Houston Farmers Market in the Heights. Antique stores and art galleries abound in the Museum District along Bissonnet Street, the Upper Kirby area along Ferndale Street, the Montrose area along Hazard Street and in the Heights along both Yale Street and Heights Boulevard. Just a short drive out of the city, the little towns of Chappell Hill and Round Top host annual antique and flea markets each fall that attract the most discriminating collectors. No matter what youre looking for and no matter how much or how little you want to spend, youre bound to find itand moresomewhere in Houston.
No matter what youre looking for, no matter how much or how little you want to spend, youre bound to find it.
houston visitors center
Filled with information and merchandise, the Houston Visitors Center, the largest in the U.S., also has a cafe for hungry patrons.
heights theatre
This funky antiques store is a former theater located on 19th Street in the historical Houston Heights neighborhood.
145
Job Opportunities & Hiring Trends

How to find a job in Houston.
Once dominated by oil-related jobs, Houstons economy has diversified as new, core industries join energy in the regional employment mix. These diversifying sectors account for 71 percent of the net job growth since 1986, according to calculations made by the Greater Houston Partnership based on the University of Houstons Institute of Regional Forecasting data.
Exciting big-name venues like the House of Blues can be found at Houstons newest mixed-use development, which opened in the fall of 2008. Houston Pavilions, located downtown, also features dining, retail and office space.
houston pavilions
146
job opportunities & hiring trends
147
Employment
he Greater Houston Partnership and Workforce Solutions
T Job Search
To help find the job thats right for you, try these resources.
implemented an innovative approach to meet employers skill shortages through an initiative to align the regions education and training offerings with employers
immediate needs. One major element of this initiative has focused on the shortage of registered nurses in the Gulf Coast region. The coalitions Health Services Steering Committee was recognized with a national award in 2001 as an exemplary partnership. Also, the Texas Workforce Commission awarded the Workforce Solutions a grant to expand the model program at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston for upgrading staff to registered nurse positions, including six area hospitals that chose to participate. That initiative resulted in a 20 percent increase in local nursing school enrollment and a corresponding increase in the number of nursing school facilities.
Workforce Solutions
This network of 29 career centers located throughout the Gulf Coast region provides free job services. Locations and a varoety of information can be found at wrksolutions.com.
Texas Workforce Commission

This state-sponsored coalition of 28 local workforce development boards can be reached at twc.state.tx.us.
Greater Houston Partnership

The Partnershp provides links to the career pages of many of the citys largest companies at houston.org/greater-houston-partnership/employers.
Texas Workforce
One of the states most comprehensive online job resources, at workintexas.com.
Houston Chronicle
The citys morning newspaper, features an online listing of jobs at chroniclejobs.com.
T Houstons Largest Employers

1. Memorial Hermann Healthcare System*
19,500 employees
15. HCA*
7,855 employees
23. St. Lukes Episcopal Health System*

6,000 employees
16. BP America, Inc.*

7,387 employees
8. The Methodist Hospital*

9,991 employees
24. Texas Childrens Hospital*

6,000 employees
17. Macys
7,000 employees
2. Continental Airlines, Inc.*

16,000 employees
9. The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston*

9,318 employees
25. Halliburton*
5,748 employees
18. Baker Hughes Incorporated*

7,000 employees
26. EPCO, Inc.*

5,700 employees
3. The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center*

15,000 employees
10. Baylor College of Medicine*

9,232 employees
19. AT&T*
6,900 employees
27. Fiesta Mart, Inc.

5,500 employees
4. ExxonMobil*
13,000 employees
11. HP*
9,000 employees
20. ExxonMobil Chemical Company - Baytown Chemical Complex

6,500 employees
28. KBR*
5,089 employees
5. Shell Oil Company*

13,000 employees
12. ARAMARK Corp.*

8,500 employees
6. Kroger Company*
12,000 employees
13. Chevron*
8,000 employees
21. The Dow Chemical Company, Freeport*

6,100 employees
29. LyondellBasell Industries*

5,080 employees
30. CenterPoint Energy*

5,000 employees
* Denotes member of the Greater Houston Partnership
22. H-E-B*
6,000 employees
7. National Oilwell Varco*

10,000 employees
14. Pappas Restaurants, Inc.*

8,000 employees
148
T Employment Services
1. Hewitt Associates, LLC
Employee benefit consultation and administration; executive compensation and salary administration consultation; employee communication; and human resource strategy consultation. 1,501 employees top executive: alberto santos, regional manager 2601 Research Forest Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77381-4211 Phone: (281) 363-0456 Fax: (281) 363-9049 www.hewittassociates.com
7. Burnett Staffing Specialists*

Temporary and direct-hire staffing of accounting, administrative/clerical, engineering, human resources, information technology, legal, light industrial, sales, telephone skills and employee development training. 95 employees top executive: sue burnett, president 9800 Richmond Ave., Suite 800 Houston, TX 77042-4548 Phone: (713) 977-4777 Fax: (713) 977-5974 www.burnettstaffing.com
4. Houston Works, USA*

Business Description: Provides skilled employees to Houston-area businesses through employment and training services. 300 employees top executive: larry v. green, esq., ceo P.O. Box 667128 Houston, TX 77266-7128 Phone: (713) 654-1919 Fax: (713) 655-0715 www.houstonworks.org
8. Richard, Wayne & Roberts

Personnel services, with fundamental strength in sourcing, identifying and recruiting qualified candidates to satisfy clients needs. 85 employees top executive: dick weiss, managing partner 24 Greenway Plaza, Suite 1304 Houston, TX 77046-2486 Phone: (713) 629-6681 Fax: (713) 623-2740 www.rwr.com
5. Corporate Staffing
Business Description: Provides personnel on a temporary, temp-to-hire and permanent basis for executive, management, supervisory, staff or clerical levels in a multitude of industries. 172 employees top executive: allan finch, cpa, president 800 Wilcrest Dr., Suite 240 Houston, TX 77042-2387 Phone: (713) 789-1522 Fax: (713) 789-5788 www.corpstaff.com
2. DiverseStaff, Inc.
Temporary staffing, contract staffing and direct hire. 315 employees top executive: david harris, ceo 3262 Westheimer Rd., Suite 431 Houston, TX 77098 Phone: (713) 522-0000 Fax: (713) 533-9526 www.diversestaff.com
9. Talent Tree
Temporary staffing services. 80 employees top executive: brenda harris, president & coo 9703 Richmond Ave., Suite 200 Houston, TX 77042-4620 Phone: (713) 361-7312 Fax: (713) 353-6607 www.talenttree.com
3. Clover Global Solutions, LP

Provides facilities management, information management and contract workers primarily to the oil and gas industry. 300 employees top executive: carolyn j. sutton, president 16225 Park Ten Place, One Park Ten Plaza, Suite 420 Houston, TX 77084 Phone: (281) 994-5900 Fax: (281) 994-5901 www.clovergs.com
6. Mercer*
Market Leader and Worldwide Partner Business Description: Human resources consulting, outsourcing and investments. 110 employees top executive: philip tenenbaum, houston 1000 Main, Suite 2900 Houston, TX 77002 Phone: (713) 276-2100 Fax: (713) 276-2118 www.mercer.com
10. Meador Staffing Services Inc.

Provides full-service personnel staffing for all of the Houston area from six office locations. 80 employees top executive: ben f. meador jr., president 722A Fairmont Pkwy. Pasadena, TX 77504 Phone: (713) 941-0616 Fax: (713) 941-3582 www.meador.com
* Denotes member of the Greater Houston Partnership
149
T Economic Development Groups & Chambers of Commerce

Greater Houston Partnership
713-844-3600
Conroe Chamber of Commerce

936-756-6644
Greater Conroe/Lake Conroe Area Chamber of Commerce

936-756-6644
Acres Homes Citizen Chamber of Commerce

281-820-2620
Crosby/Huffman Chamber of Commerce

281-328-6984
Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council

281-242-0000
African American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston

713-692-7003
Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce

281-373-1390
Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce

713-861-6735
Alvin-Manvel Area Chamber of Commerce

281-331-3944
Dayton Community Development Corporation

936-257-0055
Greater Shepherd Chamber of Commerce

936-628-3890
Anahuac Area Chamber of Commerce

409-267-4190
Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

281-479-1559
Greater Southwest Houston Chamber of Commerce

713-666-1521
Angleton Chamber of Commerce

979-849-6443
Economic Alliance Houston Port Region

281-867-1112
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership

281-486-5535
Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce

281-351-7222
Economic Development Alliance for Brazoria County

979-848-0560
Baytown Chamber of Commerce

281-422-8359
Hempstead Chamber of Commerce

979-826-8217
Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

281-491-0800
Baytown/West Chambers County Economic Development Foundation

281-420-2961
Fort Bend County Community Development

281-341-4410
Hempstead Economic Development Corporation

979-826-2900
Bee Development Authority

361-358-2023
Friendswood Chamber of Commerce

281-482-3329
Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce

713-522-9745
Brazoria Chamber of Commerce

979-798-6100
Galena Park Chamber of Commerce

713-672-6443
Houston East End Chamber of Commerce

713-926-3305
Central Houston, Inc.

713-650-1470
Galleria Chamber of Commerce

713-629-5555
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

281-488-7676
Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

713-644-7070
Galveston Chamber of Commerce

409-763-5326
Cleveland Economic Development Corporation

281-592-0439
Galveston Economic Development Partnership

409-770-0216
Houston Intown Chamber of Commerce

713-524-8000
Coldspring San Jacinto County Chamber of Commerce

936-653-2184
Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce

281-592-8786
Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce

281-440-4160
Houston Technology Center

713-658-1750
Community Chamber of Commerce of East Montgomery County

281-354-0051
Greater Conroe Economic Development Council

936-756-6644
Houston West Chamber of Commerce

713-785-4922
150
Humble Area Chamber of Commerce

281-446-2128
North Houston Greenspoint Chamber of Commerce

281-260-3163
South Belt Ellington Chamber of Commerce

281-481-5516
Katy Area Chamber of Commerce

281-391-5289
Katy Area Economic Development Council

281-396-2200
Oak Ridge North Economic Development Corporation

281-367-0727
South Houston Chamber of Commerce

713-943-0244
Pasadena Chamber of Commerce

281-487-7871
South Montgomery County Woodlands Chamber of Commerce

281-367-5777
Kingwood Chamber of Commerce

281-360-4321
Pearland Area Chamber of Commerce

281-485-3634
La Marque Economic Development Corporation

409-938-9258
Pearland Economic Development Corporation

281-652-1627
South Montgomery County Woodlands Economic Development Partnership

281-363-8130
La Porte Bayshore Chamber of Commerce

281-471-1123
Rosenberg Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce

281-342-5464
Stafford Economic Development Corporation

281-261-3900
Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce

936-336-5736
Texas Chamber of Electronic Commerce

713-621-9220
Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce

409-925-8558
Magnolia Area Chamber of Commerce

281-356-1488
Seabrook Economic Development Corporation

281-291-5730
Texas City La Marque Chamber of Commerce

409-935-1408
Native American Chamber of Commerce

832-251-6367
Sealy Economic Development Corporation

979-885-3511
Tomball Economic Development Corporation

281-401-4086
North Channel Area Chamber of Commerce

713-450-3600
Shepherd Economic Development Corporation

936-628-1271
Tri-County Black Chamber of Commerce

832-875-3977
North Galveston County Chamber of Commerce

281-534-4380
Waller Economic Development Corporation

936-931-5151
151
T Advertiser Index
Apartments & Condominiums/ High Rises
Dominion Post Oak
www.dominionpostoak.com Page 75
Trendmaker Homes
www.trendmakerhomes.com Page 105
John Cooper School, The

www.johncooper.org Page 96
Neighborhoods & Communities

Aliana Development
www.alianahouston.com Page 37
Lone Star College

www.lonestar.edu Page 97
The Mosaic
www.mosaichouston.com Page 47
Bridgeland
www.bridgeland.com Page 109
Memorial Lutheran Church & School

www.mlchouston.org Page 90
Personette Group
www.personettegroup.com Page 29
Prairie View A&M University

www.pvamu.edu Page 83
First Colony Community Association

www.firstcolony.org Pages 79
Rockwell Management
www.rockwellmgmt.com Page 73
School of the Woods

www.schoolofthewoods.org Page 94
Friendswood Development
www.friendswooddevelopment.com Pages 4 & 5
Banks & Credit Unions

Wells Fargo Bank
www.wellsfargo.com Page 37
Second Baptist School

www.secondbaptistschool.org Page 92
The Woodlands
www.theWoodlands.com Page 31
Churches & Synagogues

Congregation Emanu El
www.emanuelhouston.org Page 55

www.stmes.org Page 98
Realtors
Barcenas Real Estate

www.barcenasrealestate.com Page 23
First Methodist Houston

www.fmhouston.com Page 49
St. Stephens Episcopal School Houston

www.ssesh.org Page 83
Bernstein Realty
www.bernsteinrealty.com Outside Back Cover, Page 137
Houstons First Baptist Church

www.houstonsfirst.org Page 61
Texas Southern University

www.tsu.edu Page 101
Coldwell Banker United Realtors

www.cbunited.com Page 7
Second Baptist Church

www.second.org Inside Front Cover
University of Houston Downtown

www.uh.edu/downtown Page 99
Heritage Texas Properties

www.heritagetexas.com Page 3
Dining
Spanish Flowers Restaurant

www.spanish-flowers.com Page 67
Wesley Academy
Houston Association of Realtors

www.har.com Page 15
www.wesleyacademy.net Page 49
Education
Aldine ISD
www.aldine.k12.tx.us Page 91
Health Care
Martha Turner Properties

www.marthaturner.com Page 1
Memorial Hermann Healthcare System

www.memorialhermann.org Page 123
Michael HamiltonTrend Setter Realty

www.trendsetterrealty.com/houston Page 109
Art Institute of Houston

www.artinstitutes.edu/houston Page 93
Womans Hospital of Texas

www.womanshosptital.com Page 125
Re/Max Cinco Ranch

www.rehouston.com Page 108
British School of Houston

www.britishschool.org Page 95
Home Builders
D.R. Horton
www.drhorton.com Inside Back Cover
Sterling Relocation
www.sterling-relo.com Page 75
Faith West Academy

www.faithwest.org Page 85
First Baptist Academy

www.fbahouston.org Page 87
First Texas Homes

www.firsttexashomes.com Page 9
Transportation
METRO
www.rideMETRO.org Page 41
Perry Homes
www.perryhomes.com Page 27
Fort Bend Baptist Academy

www.fbba.org Page 84
Port of Houston Authority

www.portofhouston.com Page 2
152
153
Your home.Our expertise.

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ONE CHURCH IN FIVE LOCATIONS

WEST 19449 Katy Fwy at Fry Rd Sun 9:30 & 11AM

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All About Houston

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Parks, performing arts, museums, festivals and family fun

Job Opportunities & Hiring Trends

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houstons largest employers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

loft living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 medical and health science schools

department of motor vehicles

establishing utility service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

public libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 renting & leasing in texas

residential retail electric providers

hospitals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128 hospitals (map) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

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Greetings to Here Is Houston readers.

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Greetings! Harris County is a special place. Explore it. Enjoy it.

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