Have you been wondering what’s coming next to the Manvel Town Center?
Just 5 miles from Sierra Vista, the 273-acre retail center developed by the Weitzman Group is coming to life with exciting dining, shopping and self-care options opening.
The upscale, luxury 5,000-square-foot Milano Nail Spa announced its Manvel location is opening in March near H-E-B.
Marble Slab Creamery & Great American Cookies is also now open. The dessert shop joins other drool-worthy dining options, like Smoothie King, Whataburger, Chipotle, Jersey Mike’s and McDonald’s that have opened since H-E-B’s debut in October 2023 in the open-air shopping center.
You’ll soon be able to dig into deliciousness at the 4,000-square-foot Aki Steak & Sushi restaurant, too.
Home improvement retailer Lowe’s registered construction of its project with the Texas Department of Licensing & Registration in January for its new store that’s supposed to open in the third quarter of this year at 21606 Hwy. 288 in Manvel. The store was confirmed for Manvel Town Center last fall.
According to permit filings with the TDLR, a 10,400-square-foot shell building is also underway in the center and will house various retailers.
Additional businesses are coming soon as well, including AT&T and more yet to be announced. The Houston Business Journal reported last fall that the city of Manvel and the Weitzman Group were in preliminary talks with Target for a store next to the coming-soon Lowe’s.
Memorial Hermann GoHealth Urgent Care, Great Clips and Teal Ridge Dental Care are already operational in the center.
In total, the Manvel Town Center is slated to include approximately 1 million square feet of retail, entertainment, hospitality, medical and office spaces; with only a handful of businesses occupying the center so far, there’s still so much excitement to come.
As we head out of winter and into spring, there is one thing every Texan looks forward to — crawfish season! This year is expected to be particularly tasty given the warm, wet weather we’ve (mostly) been having. Where do you get them and why do people love them? We’ve got the lowdown.
When is Crawfish Season?
Forget Christmas, crawfish season is the most wonderful time of the year. People gather mostly in March, April and May to bond over buckets of crawfish, swapping stories and spices like old friends. You can also get your fix over the summer, but spring is where it’s really at.
It’s All About the Flavor
When it comes to why people love crawfish, first up is the flavor. Crawfish are like the sponges of the seafood world, soaking up all those glorious spices and giving your taste buds a kick they won’t forget. It’s a blend of sweet, spicy and savory that’ll have you questioning why you ever bothered with plain old shrimp.
There’s the Social Component
Crawfish boils are the social events of the season. Think of it as a Southern-style BBQ but with a Cajun twist and a whole lot more napkins. Gather your friends, roll up your sleeves and prepare for some competitive peeling action.
It’s A Vibe
Crawfish boils are casual, communal and messy—three things that make for an unforgettable time. No one cares if you’re dripping in butter or if you have a stray piece of crawfish shell stuck to your cheek. It’s all part of the charm.
It’s Satisfying
There’s something oddly satisfying about the whole process: the peeling, the dipping the eating. It’s like a culinary treasure hunt where the prize is a mouthful of spicy goodness. And let’s be real, there’s no better feeling than mastering the art of crawfish peeling and then showing off your skills like a seasoned pro.
There are Side Dishes
Sure, crawfish are the stars of the show, but the supporting cast is just as impressive. Corn, potatoes and sausage all cooked in that same spicy bath—it’s like a flavor explosion with every bite. And for those who like to live on the wild side, there are endless ways to jazz things up with garlic butter, lemon or even some crazy concoctions you dream up on the fly.
Where Are They?
Want to give them a try? Here are some places near Sierra Vista known for their crawfish culinary skill.
Ever peek into a professional kitchen and marvel at the effortless flow of activity? It’s not just magic or years of practice—it’s all about smart organization. Believe it or not, with a few strategic tweaks, you can achieve it too. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned home chef, these insights will elevate your culinary game, making every meal prep session a pleasure rather than a chore.
Streamline Your Kitchen Space
Clutter can be a real creativity killer in the kitchen. Start by taking inventory of what you have. Open those drawers and cabinets and be honest with yourself—how often do you really use that avocado slicer? If it’s once in a blue moon, it’s time for it to go. Donate items that are still in good shape or recycle what you can. Less is truly more when it comes to creating an efficient workspace.
Establish Functional Zones
Think of your kitchen as a carefully designed workspace, where each area serves a specific purpose. Establishing functional zones can significantly streamline your cooking process. Start by identifying the main activities: preparation, cooking and cleaning. Organize your kitchen into these functional zones, and you’ll find that cooking becomes a lot more intuitive.
The Prep Zone
For the prep zone, keep your knives, cutting boards, mixing bowls and measuring cups close by. This makes it easy to chop, mix and measure without darting around the kitchen. Ensure you have ample counter space here to spread out your ingredients and tools.
The Cooking Zone
Position pots, pans, spatulas and stirring spoons near the stove. Keep spices and oils within arm’s reach so you can season as you go. Having everything close to the heat source allows you to focus on cooking without unnecessary trips across the kitchen.
The Cleaning Zone
Place cleaning supplies, dish soap, sponges and towels near the sink and dishwasher. A small trash bin or compost container in this area can also help keep things tidy. By having these essentials close, you can quickly clean as you cook, minimizing mess.
Smart Countertop Management
Clear countertops are your best friend when it comes to a smooth cooking experience. Keep the surface clutter-free by storing appliances you use less frequently in cabinets or pantry spaces. This gives you ample room to chop, dice and mix without any obstructions. Reserve countertop space for items you use daily, like a coffee maker, knife block or a small spice rack.
Storage Solutions
Professional kitchens run on optimal storage. Your kitchen can, too. Think about adding wall-mounted shelves or hooks to hold pots, pans and utensils. Inside cabinets, consider pull-out drawers and stackable bins. For the pantry, adjustable shelves can accommodate different sizes of containers. Lazy Susans are perfect for corner cabinets, allowing you to rotate and grab what you need. Use tension rods to create dividers for baking sheets, cutting boards and platters.
Label and Sort
Label and sort items so you can easily grab what you need. Start with clear containers for grains, spices and other dry goods. Make sure each container is labeled with its contents and the date you stocked it. Not only does this make it easy to find ingredients, but it also helps you keep track of freshness. Group similar items together in designated spots. When everything has a home, you’ll spend less time searching and more time cooking.
Keep It Up
Establishing and maintaining an organized kitchen isn’t a one-time task—it’s a continuous effort that pays off in spades. Make it a point to schedule regular check-ins to keep your kitchen in top shape. A quick daily tidying can prevent messes from snowballing into daunting chores. Wiping down countertops, putting away stray items and giving the sink a swift rinse each evening can make a world of difference.
Check Out Our Kitchens
Sierra Vista builders know the value of a well-organized kitchen. That’s why many of them offer oversized cabinets, kitchen islands, lazy Susans and more. They can even help you create a kitchen that rivals any restaurant at the design center. Stop by Sierra Vista and learn more today.
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable day of community spirit and friendly reptile competition at the Alvin ISD Turtle Race & 5K Fun Run.
The annual event, set for Feb. 8, is more than just a race—it’s a celebration with a purpose. Hosted by the Alvin ISD Education Foundation, the event brings families, friends and neighbors together in support of educational programs that make a real difference in our schools.
The day begins at the Meridiana-Adventure Cove, 5225 Meridiana Parkway, with a 1K Family Fun Run at 8 a.m. followed by a timed 5K at 9 a.m. Every participant will receive a race T-shirt and the finishers will receive a medal.
Race fees are $40 for adults, $35 for students, and $30 for kids aged 11 and under. It’s a great way to engage in some healthy competition while supporting our teachers and students.
The much-anticipated turtle race begins at 11 a.m. For just $5, you can adopt your very own racing turtle, each numbered and ready to float down Mustang Bayou. It’s pretty exciting with the plastic participants being cheered on by an adoring crowd. The first turtle to cross the finish line wins the prize!
Last year more than 13,000 turtles were adopted and there were 740 race participants. The event raised more than $140,000 for Innovative Teaching Grants, student and teacher scholarships for students and staff throughout Alvin ISD.
Sierra Vista students are zoned to highly regarded Alvin ISD schools so you might say, we’re invested in the race. Let’s come together to support these vital programs and make a lasting impact on the lives of students and educators alike.
The holiday season is synonymous with joy, togetherness and, let’s be honest, a bit of financial stress. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With some clever tactics and a dash of creativity, you can fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit without putting a strain on your wallet. Whether it’s discovering local events, crafting your own decorations or exploring the great outdoors, there are endless ways to sleigh the holidays if you are on a budget. Here are a few of our favorites.
Explore Free Festive Events
Exploring local festivities is a delightful way to dive into the holiday spirit without draining your bank account. To find these hidden gems, check out community bulletin boards, local event websites or even social media groups dedicated to your area. Libraries, schools and community centers often organize festive activities like holiday story hours, craft workshops, and even small concerts, all at little to no cost. Some events near Sierra Vista include the fabulous Duke Family Christmas Light Show, Manvel’s Parade of Lights, the Pearland Town Center Christmas Market and the Pearland Festival of Lights.
Get Out the Glue Gun
Who needs pricey holiday decorations when you can become a crafting genius with stuff lying around the house? Grab the kids and dive into the recycling bin. Got old newspapers? Turn them into paper mâché ornaments. Toilet paper rolls? You mean future glittery napkin rings. And if you’re feeling extra daring, create some DIY snowflakes from coffee filters. Remember those fairy lights from last year? Wrap them around your new creations for an instant upgrade.
Give the Gift of You
When it comes to thrifty gifts, why not give the gift of something homemade? Start with personalized mugs. All you need is a plain mug and some Sharpies from the dollar store. Scribble on an inside joke or a quirky design, and boom—instant sentimentality. Not feeling artsy? Bake up a storm and fill some mason jars with cookies. Tie a ribbon around the top, and voilà, you’ve got a gourmet gift without the gourmet price. Create a memory jar filled with handwritten notes, inside jokes and little memories. Get creative with a coupon book. “One Free Back Rub,” “Dishwashing Duty Exemption,” or “No Eye-Rolling for a Day” coupons can be priceless. A cute “Netflix and Chill” kit with popcorn and candy can make anyone’s holiday.
Embrace the Outdoors
Engaging in outdoor activities offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with your loved ones. Consider organizing a nature scavenger hunt for the kids where they can search for winter-themed items like pinecones, holly or even animal tracks. Don’t underestimate the charm of a simple evening stroll through your neighborhood either. Many communities go all out with their holiday light displays, transforming ordinary streets into magical wonderlands. Walking through these luminous displays can be a mesmerizing experience, and it’s completely free.
Throw a Potluck Party
You don’t have to go broke impressing your guests with a Michelin star menu. Instead, channel your inner “host with the most” and throw a potluck party. Gather your squad—friends, family, neighbors and co-workers — and ask everyone to bring their signature dish. To keep things interesting, spice it up with a theme. How about a “Retro Recipe Revival” where everyone digs out their grandma’s cookbook? Or go global with an “International Holiday Feast.” The best part? With everyone contributing, you’ll have a variety of foods that cater to all tastes and dietary quirks.
Spread Holiday Cheer by Volunteering
Volunteering during the holidays is the ultimate way to spread joy and feel like a superhero—all without spending a single cent. Animal shelters, food banks and community centers are practically begging for your help. Toy drives are another great gig. You get to be Santa’s little helper, minus the North Pole commute. Sorting toys and seeing kids’ faces light up is the kind of feel-good moment money just can’t buy.
Visit Sierra Vista for the Holidays
Residents of Sierra Vista love decorating their homes for the holidays, so why not take a walk in our neighborhood? While you’re here, stop by our model homes. Our builders might be able to help you find your perfect holiday home.
