Children’s Safe Harbor marked its 15th year of honoring children saved from abuse by planting symbolic pinwheels across multiple counties — expanding its annual tradition to four separate locations for the first time.
For the 15th consecutive year, Children’s Safe Harbor, a local nonprofit committed to safeguarding at-risk children, has initiated its annual Pinwheel Project — a compelling visual campaign where each pinwheel planted represents a child's life saved through the organization’s advocacy. This year signifies a notable expansion, featuring installations across four locations in Montgomery, Walker, and San Jacinto Counties.
“This marks our inaugural visit to four locations,” stated Victoria Constance, executive director of Children’s Safe Harbor. “The focus is on sharing the message.” The initiative commenced on April 15 at the Lone Star Convention Center in Conroe, aligning with the final day of the group’s regional child abuse prevention conference. The event will conclude on April 23 in Magnolia, following earlier installations in Walker County, where 151 pinwheels were planted, and in San Jacinto County, where 76 pinwheels will continue to be displayed throughout the month.
The pinwheels act as a meaningful tribute and a means of raising public awareness, complemented by signs that clarify their importance. Each year, community leaders, law enforcement, and nonprofit partners come together for these events, demonstrating their united front in the battle against child abuse.
One of the organizations providing support is Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA), a nonprofit organization centered around motorcycles, which boasts over two dozen chapters across Texas. Members of the Montgomery County chapter, which assists approximately 50 children annually, participated in this year's installations. Their mission is to enable children to feel secure and regain their sense of childhood.
A special guest, Oaklee, a certified therapy Bernedoodle, brought joy to the attendees. Under the ownership of Paul Johnson, Oaklee has transitioned into the role of the organization’s official therapy dog, having previously spread joy among nursing home residents. “Our aim was to make a positive impact for children in need,” Johnson stated.
Children’s Safe Harbor has recently reached a significant milestone by completing the beam-signing phase of its new facility, which is anticipated to be fully operational by the end of the year. This achievement reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to growth, justice, healing, and hope for children throughout the region.
In a rare and unified stand, more than 200 presidents of U.S. colleges and universities have signed a joint statement accusing the Trump administration of dangerous political interference in higher education. The coordinated response comes on the heels of a federal lawsuit filed by Harvard University, claiming that the government is threatening its academic independence.
Texans turned out in full force this past weekend as The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival marked its 20th year with record crowds, perfect weather, and a strong dose of Texas-sized creativity. With over 200 artists, dozens of performances, and a mission to “Make Art Matter,” the festival once again proved why it’s one of the top-ranked art events in the country.