Just after midnight, deputies responded to reports of a shooting at Goose's Acre in The Woodlands. 

 Upon arrival, Deputies discovered two males, ages 31 and 29, and one female, age 27, who had sustained gunshot wounds.  Witnesses on scene quickly provided medical aid, and all three individuals were transported to local hospitals for treatment.  The suspect, a 27-year-old-male from Houston, was also transported to a different local hospital for treatment due to injuries he sustained from by-standers who detained him for law enforcement, after the shooting. 

 The suspect is currently in custody, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.  Our detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident to determine what led to this shooting.  We understand that situations like this create fear and uncertainty in our community, and we want to reassure the public that we are fully committed to maintaining safety and holding the suspect accountable. 

 The names of the victims and the suspect are not being released at this time. We will provide updates as appropriate while ensuring that the investigation's integrity remains intact. 

 We want to extend our thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families as they receive medical care. We appreciate the swift response of our deputies and first responders and the cooperation of the community as we work through this investigation. 

 We urge anyone with information, video footage, or details about this incident to contact the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office at 936-760-5876 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP.  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Montgomery County has implemented new regulations to prevent outgoing elected officials from depleting inventory before their successors assume office. During a recent court session, County Judge Mark Keough proposed measures to limit both inventory control and spending by departing officials. While the commissioners agreed to impose restrictions on inventory, they did not support spending limits, expressing concerns that such constraints might hinder officials who remain committed to their duties during their final period in office. 

 Precinct 3 Commissioner Ritch Wheeler raised this issue after observing that his predecessor, James Noack, had significantly reduced funds and inventory prior to leaving office. Wheeler highlighted a particular instance where Noack authorized a $400,000 equipment purchase for another department shortly before his departure. Additionally, Wheeler advocated for increased transparency by suggesting that all contracts be discussed in open sessions. He cited an example where, two months before leaving office, the previous administration extended a five-year Chapter 381 Agreement without open discussion, impacting the county by $60 million. 

 Precinct 4 Commissioner Matt Gray acknowledged facing similar challenges upon taking office but cautioned against imposing excessive budgetary restrictions. In response to these concerns, Assistant County Attorney Amy Davidson indicated that the court might consider modifying its consent agenda in future meetings to enhance transparency and address issues related to contract renewals by outgoing officials.  

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀: 
 Houston Chronicle: https://buff.ly/4gGNiQX 
 Conroe Courier:n https://buff.ly/4gKV4cJ  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Montgomery County is set to expand its jail capacity by adding 64 beds to address persistent overcrowding, a situation intensified by the county's rapid population growth. Sheriff Wesley Doolittle, who assumed office on January 1, highlighted that the jail's 1,253 beds have been operating at over 90% capacity. The Texas Jail Commission approved a variance on February 6, allowing the utilization of existing floor space for the additional beds without necessitating infrastructure modifications. Despite these capacity challenges, the jail recently passed an inspection focusing on facility conditions, emergency preparedness, inmate processing, medical care, and hygiene standards. Sheriff Doolittle has also addressed staffing concerns, filling nearly all of the 31 vacancies since taking office. County Judge Mark Keough supports these initiatives, acknowledging the efforts made in the initial months of Doolittle's tenure. 

 The county's population surge is a significant factor contributing to the jail's overcrowding. U.S. Census Bureau data indicates that the population grew from 455,746 in 2010 to an estimated 711,354 in 2024. Historically, the county attempted to mitigate overcrowding by constructing the 1,293-bed Joe Corley Detention Center in 2008. However, due to occupancy challenges and tax-exempt status requirements, the facility was sold in 2013. A 2015 study recommended expanding the existing jail or building a new one to meet future demands, but no definitive actions have been taken. 

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
 Houston Chronicle: https://buff.ly/3EEuQeE 
 Hello Woodlands: https://buff.ly/412LcW5  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty 

Children at Risk, a Houston-based education nonprofit, has released its 2024 rankings of Texas public schools to assist parents, educators, and community members in understanding school performance and identifying areas for improvement. These rankings are particularly significant this year due to the absence of official A-F accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency (TEA), which has been unable to release them for the 2023 and 2024 academic years because of ongoing legal disputes over changes to its rating formula and the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness exams.  

 𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆  

     Elementary & Middle Schools – Assessed on student achievement, growth, and performance relative to poverty levels.
     High Schools – Evaluated using the same criteria plus college readiness, but without military or career readiness factors. 

 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀  

     58% of Houston-area schools improved, with high schools leading gains. HISD saw notable progress due to its reform programs.
     44 districts improved, 38 declined, and 10 lacked data; YES Prep Public Schools and Spring Branch ISD showed major improvements, while Deer Park ISD and New Caney ISD declined.
     Gold Ribbon Schools (high-performing, low-income campuses) more than doubled. 

 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗻-𝗔𝗿𝗲𝗮 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀  

     Elementary: TH Rogers (HISD), Stafford STEM (Stafford MSD), Commonwealth (Fort Bend ISD).
     Middle: TH Rogers (HISD), Stafford STEM, Briarmeadow Charter (HISD).
     High: Carnegie Vanguard (HISD), Tomball Star Academy, Alief Early College.  

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀: 
 Houston Chronicle: https://buff.ly/42OM1UQ 
 Fox26 Houston: https://buff.ly/4jYUUkI 
 Children at Risk: https://buff.ly/3WY3FBV  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty 

𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 

 In 2024, the Conroe ISD Virtual School saw its accountability rating fall to a 'D' from a previous 'B', signaling a significant drop in performance standards. This downturn has sparked concerns regarding the school's educational quality and operational efficiency. Deputy Superintendent Bethany Medford has identified the virtual school, alongside Grangerland Intermediate and Patterson Elementary (both also receiving 'D' ratings), as key areas requiring immediate attention for enhancement within the district's framework. 

 𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗨𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘆  

 The future of CISD's Virtual School is clouded by the cessation of state funding scheduled for September 2025. Superintendent Curtis Null has adopted a cautious stance, remarking, "We are sort of one foot in and one foot out on the virtual school," due to the lack of guaranteed funding and legislative authorization beyond the current term. 

 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝘅𝘁  

 The virtual school was introduced by CISD in 2022 under the provisions of Senate Bill 15, which allowed educational entities to start virtual learning programs. It caters to students in grades five to ten through the Texas Virtual School Network (TXVSN), which facilitates online education with TEA-approved courses and certified teachers. In 2023, Governor Greg Abbott mandated the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to relax certain criteria for virtual instruction, enabling programs like CISD's to operate through 2025. However, the sustainability of these programs remains uncertain due to fluctuating funding and performance metrics. 

 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀  

 Despite these operational and financial hurdles, interest in the virtual school persists among parents, who often seek educational continuity through to the twelfth grade. Bethany Medford has noted the community's appreciation for the virtual learning option, saying, "We see that it has value in our community." 

 The district awaits the official TEA accountability ratings, which have been postponed due to litigation over the STAAR tests and the state's grading system. As CISD addresses these multifaceted challenges, the viability of its Virtual School hangs in the balance, dependent on state funding resolutions and the success of strategic improvement initiatives aimed at boosting school performance.  

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀: 
 Conroe Courier: https://buff.ly/40S0nRL 
 Virtual CISD: https://buff.ly/4hVFxrq 
 Texas Education Agency: https://buff.ly/4gBO1Tt  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty 

Levy Park, a vibrant urban space in Houston's Upper Kirby neighborhood, is experiencing unprecedented popularity, drawing between 6,000 to 10,000 visitors weekly, some traveling from as far as 100 miles away. This surge in attendance has led officials from the Upper Kirby Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) to propose an $8.5 million expansion by acquiring an adjacent vacant lot of less than an acre. The Houston City Council authorized the district in December to explore the feasibility of this expansion. 

 Proponents, including Upper Kirby Redevelopment Authority President Travis Younkin, view this as a rare chance to enhance a highly utilized public space in an area where new public spaces are scarce. Council Member Abbie Kamin, representing the district encompassing Levy Park, emphasizes the unique opportunity to expand the city's footprint, noting that such clear land adjacent to a park seldom becomes available. 

 However, the proposed expansion has sparked debate over resource allocation and equity. Critics, such as Council Member Julian Ramirez, question the justification for investing substantial funds into an already "world-class" park when many other city parks lack basic amenities. Ramirez highlights the disparity, pointing out that while some affluent areas benefit from TIRZ funding, less affluent neighborhoods without TIRZ support often fall behind in park development. 

 It's important to note that the funding for Levy Park's expansion would come from the Upper Kirby TIRZ, not from the city's general budget. This funding structure means that the revenue generated within the TIRZ is reinvested locally, potentially freeing up city resources for parks in other areas. Younkin suggests that this model could serve as a blueprint for other districts, proposing that shifting park maintenance responsibilities to reinvestment zones or private developers could alleviate some financial burdens on the city's parks department, thereby allowing more funds to be allocated to underserved parks. 

 As discussions continue, the debate underscores the broader issue of equitable resource distribution within Houston's park system, balancing the enhancement of popular destinations like Levy Park with the pressing needs of other community parks across the city.  

 𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼:
 Fox26 Houston: https://buff.ly/4hsEijD  

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
 Houston Chronicle: https://buff.ly/4gxzjwW 
 Fox26 Houston: https://buff.ly/3CKzPKg  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

The Conroe Go Texan Parade is scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025, commencing at 1 p.m. in downtown Conroe. This annual event, a collaboration between the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's Houston Metro Go Texan Committee Conroe/Willis/The Woodlands Subcommittee and the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, serves as a prelude to the rodeo season in Montgomery County. 

 The parade will feature decorative floats, marching bands, and numerous participants on horseback, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city streets. The route begins at the intersection of Texas 75 and FM 2854 (Metcalf Street), proceeds east along Metcalf Street, passes by Conroe City Hall, and travels alongside the west side of the Montgomery County Courthouse, before concluding at its starting point. This route, introduced in 2022 to accommodate local construction, has been retained due to positive feedback. 

 Grand marshals for this year's parade are Hap Hunnicutt and Joe Van Matre, both long-standing volunteers with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Hunnicutt has over 42 years of service, having held various leadership positions, including chairman of multiple committees and membership on the executive committee. 

 The Conroe Go Texan Parade holds the distinction of being the only parade outside of Houston officially associated with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. This unique status underscores its significance within the community. 

 Following the parade, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest is slated for February 26-28, with the main rodeo events running from March 3 through March 22. Subsequently, the Montgomery County Fair is scheduled from April 3 to April 13, 2025, offering a variety of attractions and events for attendees. 

 For more information about the parade and other upcoming events, visit the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce's website at conroe.org.  

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀: 
 Conroe Courier: https://buff.ly/3WShqln 
 Conroe Chamber: https://buff.ly/416O6tO 
 Hello Woodlands: https://buff.ly/3WQMxh7  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Over the weekend of February 1-2, 2025, numerous protests erupted across the United States in response to President Donald Trump's intensified immigration enforcement policies. These demonstrations occurred in various cities, including Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, and Conroe, Texas. 

 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘀  

 In Texas, protests were held in multiple cities. In Houston, thousands marched from Montrose to Hermann Park on Sunday, February 2, voicing their opposition to the ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. Participants carried signs and chanted slogans supporting immigrant rights. 

 However, American citizens do not find these demonstrations amusing. Such actions are taken seriously and may ultimately contribute to mass deportations.  

 In Conroe, a protest on Saturday, February 1, led to the arrest of five individuals, including a 14-year-old boy. The protesters held signs advocating for immigrants' rights and opposing the Trump administration's new immigration policies. Initially, Conroe Mayor Duke W. Coon suggested that the arrested individuals were from Houston and Harris County. However, it was later clarified that they were from Conroe or nearby Cleveland. 

 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀  

 Beyond Texas and California, protests occurred in several other states. In Dallas, approximately 1,600 people gathered downtown in two separate protests against recent ICE arrests. Participants carried flags and signs with messages like "Nobody is illegal" and "Immigrants Make America Great." 

 In Arizona, a protest in Glendale on Sunday night resulted in the temporary theft of a police vehicle by one of the attendees. The vehicle was driven a short distance before being recovered. Another protest took place in Tucson. 

 In North Carolina, hundreds marched through Uptown Charlotte on Saturday, carrying flags representing various Latin American countries. The event remained peaceful, with no police intervention required. 

 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀  

 These protests were sparked by the Trump administration's renewed focus on immigration enforcement, and Democrats are playing the same games. Since taking office on January 20, 2025, President Trump has promoted increased immigration operations in cities like Chicago and New York, leading to a significant number of arrests. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency reported 864 arrests and 621 detainers lodged on Saturday, February 1. 

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀: 
 Houston Chronicle: http://houstonchronicle.com
 Associated Press: http://apnews.com
 Woodlandsonline: https://buff.ly/3WM9CSf  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Rotary International has been at the forefront of the global effort to eradicate polio for over 45 years. As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary has played a pivotal role in reducing polio cases by over 99.9% worldwide. The organization's first major vaccination project began in 1979, targeting children in the Philippines. 

 Through the dedication of its members and collaboration with partners like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Rotary has contributed billions of dollars and countless volunteer hours to immunize nearly 3 billion children across 122 countries. These efforts have been instrumental in decreasing the annual number of polio cases from hundreds of thousands to fewer than 100 today. 

 Currently, polio remains endemic in only two countries: Afghanistan and Pakistan. Rotary continues to focus on these regions, organizing mass oral vaccine distributions in collaboration with local community leaders. A notable practice during these campaigns involves marking a vaccinated child's finger with purple ink, signifying their protection against the disease. 

 It's crucial to maintain these eradication efforts. If they were to cease, polio could resurge, potentially paralyzing as many as 200,000 children annually within a decade. Rotary's commitment remains steadfast, aiming for a world where polio is a distant memory. 

 For those interested in supporting or learning more about Rotary's mission to eradicate polio, local clubs, such as the Rotary Club of Conroe, offer opportunities to get involved. Engaging with these clubs not only contributes to a polio-free world but also fosters global relationships and community service.  

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀: 
 Rotary International: https://buff.ly/3pxl44y 
 Conroe Rotary Club: https://buff.ly/4jHF9OS 
 Conroe Courier: https://buff.ly/3EgIGDE  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty 

 Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County (Habitat MCTX) is excited to announce the appointment of William Dean, Bryant Lach, and Taylor White to its Board of Directors. These accomplished professionals will contribute valuable expertise to the mission of building homes, communities, and hope. 

 “We’re thrilled to welcome them to the board,” said Charles Merdian, President of Habitat MCTX’s Board. “Their leadership will be key as we continue providing safe and affordable homes for needy families.” 

 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗺 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗻 – Real Estate Project Manager, Amoco Corporation
 With over 30 years of experience in real estate and project management, William will bring strong leadership to Habitat MCTX’s housing efforts. 

 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝗰𝗵 – Senior Vice President, JLL
 Bryant, a seasoned real estate leader and The Woodlands resident has previously contributed to Habitat MCTX’s Building Hope Gala committee. 

 𝗧𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗼𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲 – Petroleum Engineer, Ovintiv USA
 Taylor, a dedicated volunteer and mentor, has a strong community service and STEM advocacy background. 

 “We’re grateful to have such dedicated individuals join our board,” said Vicki Johnson, Executive Director of Habitat MCTX. 

 Habitat MCTX thanks Andrew Wurdack for his leadership as he concludes his board term. 

 For more information, visit habitatmctx.org.  

 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀: 
 Lake Conroe Chamber: https://buff.ly/4hF4oQn 
 Hello Woodlands: https://buff.ly/40HsRO3 
 Habitat for Humanity: https://buff.ly/40KHOiu  

 #thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty