HTX-COM: Impact 11/6/2025

Willis ISD held a dedication ceremony for Homer C. Calfee Middle School, led by Principal Gerald Schattle, on Oct. 26, according to a news release.

The gist: The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting with members of the Calfee family and district officials, marking the official opening of the new campus, according to the news release. During the ceremony, Nancy Calfee, granddaughter of Homer C. Calfee, spoke on behalf of her family by sharing stories of her grandfather’s dedication to education.

Quote of note: “A building becomes a school when people come together to create something greater than themselves,” Superintendent Kimberley James said via news release. “Our teachers and staff are building not just a campus, but a community where every student is seen, supported, and inspired to succeed.”

Some context: Calfee Middle School was part of the district's 2022 $143 million bond. The district celebrated the school's groundbreaking in June 2024, Community Impact previously reported.

Smalls Sliders has plans to expand with a new location in Conroe on Nov. 11, according to a news release.

The details: Per the release, the grand opening celebration will honor local philanthropist Nathan “Santa Nate” Arrazate. In addition, Smalls Sliders will donate a portion of the day’s proceeds to Family Promise of Montgomery County.

The new location is owned by multiunit franchisees Preston Cunningham and David Higgins, alongside general manager Alex West and operating partner Kirk Douglas, both Conroe residents. This marks the group’s third opening, joining locations in Willis and the west Houston area.

What they offer: Smalls Sliders is known for its cheeseburger sliders, specializing in fresh, cooked-to-order sliders. The menu features seasoned waffle fries, hand-spun shakes, queso and its signature sauce.

• 2116 W. Davis St., Conroe

Embracing Hearts In-Home Care officials said the in-home care facility, based in The Woodlands, opened in August and is now offering services in The Woodlands, Spring, Tomball, Conroe, Kingwood, Humble, Montgomery, Magnolia, Tomball, Katy and Cypress.

What they offer: Embracing Hearts In-Home Care offers personalized in-home care that enhances the well-being and independence of its clients from the comfort of their homes, according to the website.

Services offered include:

• Dementia care
• Personal care
• Respite care