Conroe community celebrates new Oscar Johnson Jr. Community Enrichment and Recreation Center
Community members, leaders and city officials gathered at the new Oscar Johnson Jr. Enrichment & Recreation Center in Conroe on Sept. 9 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a first look at the new space.
The big picture: The new enrichment and recreation center is nearing completion and is expected to open to the public in early 2026, Mike Cantu, assistant director of recreation operations for the city, said. The center will replace the city’s existing Oscar Johnson Jr. facility and expand amenities for residents of all ages.
The center features two full-size basketball gymnasiums that can also be converted into six pickleball courts, and will have more than 30 weekly group fitness classes and a dedicated cycling room with 25 bikes, Cantu said.
It also has a full fitness center, including free weights, machines and cardio equipment and a women-only workout space. Additional features include a three-lane walking track, a children’s “kid zone” for ages 6 months to 8 years, as well as senior programming.
Historical marker to be dedicated to Montgomery County Hospital
The Montgomery County Historical Commission will dedicate a historical marker to the Montgomery County Hospital during a public ceremony at 9 a.m. Sept. 15, according to a Sept. 10 news release.
Some context: First opened in 1938, it was the region’s first public hospital, according to the release, and received its first addition in 1954 following a statewide polio epidemic. By 1982, the area’s growth meant there was no need for the facility anymore. Overland Property Group renovated the building between 2023 and 2024 to turn it into a senior living apartment complex named Landmark 301, Community Impact previously reported. The building is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Quote of note: “I’m delighted that the 1938 county hospital has been repurposed as senior apartments to continue its service to Conroe and Montgomery County,” MCHC Chair Larry Foerster said via news release. “The preservation of the old hospital helps restore the early legacy of what was the residential center of Conroe 100 years ago.”
4 Houston-area events celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month
There are several events taking place in the Greater Houston area to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place from Sept. 15-Oct. 15. This list is not comprehensive.
Hispanic Heritage Celebration Houston Premium Outlets is hosting a performance and dance lessons from Mixteco Ballet Folklorico and a performance from Mariachi Estrella de Mi Tierra.
FOODIE FRIDAY Check out these new restaurants and bars opening across the Houston area.
Local Spot has opened its doors next to Adventure Island Pool in Cross Creek Ranch.
The new venture from Eat Local Concepts, which owns several Local Table locations in the Greater Houston area, aims to provide casual fare, classic bar bites and craft cocktails as well as menu favorites from Local Table, Community Impact reported.
🌮 Tacos El Sabor Callejero now serving Mexican cuisine in Kingwood (Read more)
🆕 Missouri City gets a taste of Hong Kong with no tipping required (Read more)
😋 Margarita Jones looks to open by end of September (Read more)
🍕 Bite Pizza Co. brings South Asian fusion to Sugar Land (Read more)
Designed to remind customers of a Parisian evening or a Bordeaux tasting room, Chateau Bellecru serves a curated selection of wines from vineyards across France, according to the business’s website.
The chateau sits near the intersection of I-10 and Studemont Street, hosting wine tastings and private celebrations, among other experiences.
The menu posted online states that a selection of red and white wines is updated weekly. The wine bar also offers rosé wines and nonalcoholic options as well as a selection of appetizers, including pastries and charcuterie boards.
