For more than 20 years, nonprofit musical theater company Opera Leggera of Kingwood has brought professional musicians and local talent together to bring joy to audiences.

Quote of note: “Music ... is something that can always unite, and that's what our goal is: to unite people through the arts, and give them an experience that they'll not soon forget,” co-founder Chris Holloway said.

The backstory: Co-founder Sasha Holloway said she and her husband already had expansive music careers. The couple sang opera for professional performance companies across Europe—which is how they met—and in Houston before they decided to open a theater of their own.

Diving deeper: The theater holds three to four performances each year, which can include an annual Christmas show, live band and singing performances as well as musical theater productions. The shows are hosted at The Nathaniel Center in Kingwood and are open to audiences of all ages.

Owned by Kwan and Kia Johnson, Brunch & Bloom opened in Humble in December, the owners confirmed Dec. 23. 

On the menu: The eatery offers breakfast, brunch and lunch with menu items ranging from fluffy biscuits and French toast to fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits. 

Quote of note: "The menu features thoughtfully crafted breakfast and lunch favorites made with bold flavors and beautiful presentation," the Johnsons said via a Dec. 23 message.

• Opened in December 
• 4902 Atascocita Road, Ste. 102, Humble 

In June, Lone Star College hired Shantha Stokes as its new chief mental health officer. In an interview with Community Impact, Stokes reflected on the challenges and successes she's faced during her first year, as well as the new initiatives planned for next semester. 

More details: Some of the questions asked by Community Impact include: 

• What are your responsibilities as Lone Star College’s chief mental health officer?
• What initiatives does Lone Star College have currently to prioritize faculty and student mental health?
• What challenges have you faced, if any, and what do you hope to accomplish next semester?