Montgomery County Precinct 4 officials have identified roughly $53 million worth of flood mitigation projects that could benefit approximately 440 homes upon completion over the next two decades.

The overview: In December, Precinct 4 officials wrapped up a study that evaluated 43 locations in need of drainage improvements throughout East Montgomery County. Of the evaluated locations, 15 were selected as projects that could qualify for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Flood Mitigation Assistance program, including 10 in the New Caney and Porter area.

Quote of note: “Drainage is especially important in East Montgomery County because the area is essentially a bowl between the west and east forks of the San Jacinto River,” said Kennedy Williams, a community outreach staffer with Precinct 4 Commissioner Matt Gray’s Office. “No one wants to have their home flooded, and Commissioner Gray is committed to continuing to improve drainage through East [Montgomery] County.”

Taza Perfecta owner Maria Diaz said she is now offering coffee and treats in New Caney.

Read all about it: Named to represent her idea of a perfect cup of coffee, Diaz said the name of the business was inspired by her husband, Jesus Diaz. Taza Perfecta offers sugar cookies and royal icing cookies as well as coffee.

Quote of note: “I have actually been wanting to start my at-home coffee business for a while,” Maria Diaz said. “And I have been trying and testing different coffees because I wanted to make sure I’m serving something customers would like." 

What they offer: To celebrate Valentine's Day, the business is offering a special menu. Starting at $5 per coffee, Valentine's Day coffee orders should be placed by Feb. 10 to be ready before Valentine's Day. Orders can be placed via Instagram and picked up in New Caney. 

• Opened Jan. 28
• Order pickups in New Caney

Looking for plans to gear up for the big football game? Super Bowl LX takes place at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco, when the Seattle Seahawks take on the New England Patriots for a chance at the championship.

Scheduled performers include Charlie Puth to sing the national anthem and a halftime performance with international recording artist Bad Bunny, according to the National Football League’s website.

The event: Here are several events taking place around the Greater Houston area this weekend, from Feb.6-Feb. 8, for Super Bowl LX. This list is not comprehensive, and details are subject to change.

• Super Bowl spreads at Lankford’s The Woodlands
• Heights Bier Garten watch party
• Live DJ and watch party in Spring
• Potluck, tailgating and more in Pearland
• Super Bowl squares and sliders in Sugar Land
• Game day buffet and pickleball play at PKL Social
• Game day food boards, watch party and custom cakes at Bayou Heights
• Seahawks Big Game Giveaway at Little Woodrow’s

Two Republican candidates are running to lead the Texas Department of Agriculture in the upcoming March 3 primary election.

The overview: Nate Sheets is challenging incumbent Sid Miller, who is seeking a fourth term as Texas agriculture commissioner. The winning Republican candidate will face Democrat Clayton Tucker in November, and the winner of that election will be sworn in for a four-year term in January 2027.

Tucker is running uncontested in the Democratic primary. Community Impact runs candidate Q&As for contested races only.

About the agency: The Texas Department of Agriculture's duties include administering federal nutrition programs and grants; facilitating trade of agricultural products; protecting crops from pests and diseases; providing financial assistance to farmers and rural communities; and conducting consumer protection programs, according to the agency's website.

Community Impact is now covering BCS, from growth and schools to business and city happenings.

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