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Spring athletes selected to All-Greater Houston teams Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted July 1, 2009
Three CFISD students were named to the Houston Chronicle’s All-Greater Houston spring teams last week.
Cypress Springs High School graduate Kimberlyn Duncan was named to the All-Greater Houston Girls Track and Field First Team as a sprinter. Duncan, the 5A state champion in the 200-meter dash, was one of 10 female athletes selected to the team.
Cypress Ridge High School graduate Chris Fritts was named to the All-Greater Houston Baseball Second Team as an outfielder. Fritts hit .547 for the Rams with 25 RBIs, four home runs and 12 stolen bases. He was named to the All-District 15-5A First Team in May.
Cypress Creek High School incoming senior Brandi Virgil was named to the All-Greater Houston Softball Second Team as an infielder. Virgil batted .430 with 14 RBIs and stole 28 bases in 2009. She earned a spot on the All-District 15-5A First Team in May.
Jersey Village Gold Dusters Announce Officers Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted July 1, 2009
The new 2009-2010 officers for the Jersey Village Gold Duster Dance and Drill Team started off the summer with a BANG during their first camp as a group. After working very hard all week, the Dance Line Officers (Colonel - Hannah Franklin, Lt. Colonel - Kim Sheeran, Sr. Lieutenants - Madison Scott, Julie Jackson, Natalie Brown, Mary Hollenbeck, Jr. Lieutenant - Brooke Williford) received the highest honor with all blue ribbons! In addition, they received 3 specialty awards: Most Disciplined Award, Home Routine Award and the Circle of Gold Award. Out of 300 total points, they received 293 for the entire week! Way to Go!!! The Social Officers (President - Jennie Gates, Vice President - Lizzie Strachan, and Ming-Ming Chen, Melodie Kline, Evelyn Gonzalez and Kara Qualls) also attended a camp of their own. They spent their time planning new ideas and fun events for the new team for the upcoming football and contest season. They did a great job bonding with each other and getting excited about the year! The 2009-2010 Jersey Village Gold Dusters are going to be led by a fabulous set of 13 officers! Congratulations and good luck!
“Milestones and Signposts” Exhibition July 7 – 23 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 30, 2009
Cool off this summer at Lone Star College-CyFair with the “Milestones and Signposts” exhibition on display July 7 through July 23 in the Bosque Gallery.
This exhibition showcases the artwork of two talented Houston area artists, Chris Narum and Humberto Saenz, whose content is connected by the investigation of the idea of marginalization. A 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. opening reception and an artist talk at 5 p.m. are set Thursday, July 9 in the Center for the Arts building.
The Bosque Gallery is located in the Center for the Arts building on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. For gallery information call 832-482-1038 or go to LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Discharge of fireworks on school property prohibited Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 30, 2009
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD reminds those celebrating the coming Independence Day holiday that Texas law prohibits the discharge of fireworks on school district property.
The Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 2154, Subchapter F, Section 2154.251 (a) (1), states that a person may not “explode or ignite fireworks within 600 feet of any church, a hospital other than a veterinary hospital, an asylum, a licensed child care center, or a public or private primary or secondary school or institution of higher education unless the person receives authorization in writing from that organization.”
According to Subchapter G, Section 2154.303 (c), the violation of this law “that results in property damage in an amount of less than $200 and does not result in bodily injury or death … is a Class C misdemeanor.”
The CFISD security department will patrol the district’s premises during this holiday season. Citizens who observe such violations are requested to contact the district’s security dispatcher at 281-897-4337 or the Harris County Precinct 4 Constables at 281-376-3472. Persons found violating these laws may be issued a citation from Harris County Precinct 4.
Bridgeland residents and visitors gave the ultimate gift to help save as many as 54 lives during a recent blood drive at the community.
The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center’s blood mobile parked at Bridgeland’s Welcome Center, 16919 North Bridgeland Lake Parkway, Sunday, June 28, to take donations. Staffers collected 16 units of whole blood and two units of double red cells.
“It was a successful afternoon at Bridgeland,” said the Blood Center’s Gary Moore. “Thanks to the efforts of Bridgeland and the contributions of the donors, as many as 54 lives will be saved.”
The blood mobile will return to the community Sept. 26 during planned Nature Fest activities.
Blood donations are truly life-sustaining gifts. According to the center, blood donations can help a variety of individuals — trauma victims, surgery patients, premature babies, people with anemia, cancer patients and others. Each unit of whole blood can be separated into plasma, platelets and red blood cells, helping save three lives.
For more information, visit giveblood.org. The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is a non-profit, independent blood center that is not affiliated with the American Red Cross.
Cypress Fairbanks Recognized in the Top 10% for Maternity Care Services Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 30, 2009
Cypress Fairbanks Hospital Medical Center announced today that it has received the 2009/2010 Maternity Care Excellence Award™ from HealthGrades, a leading independent healthcare ratings organization. As a recipient of this award, Cypress Fairbanks is recognized among the top 10% of hospitals in the nation for maternity care services and a recipient of a 5-star rating for 2009/2010. This is the sixth consecutive year for the hospital in northwest Houston to receive the 5-star rating.
The Sixth Annual HealthGrades Women’s Health in American Hospitals study found that wide gaps continue to persist in quality outcomes for maternity care. “For many women, having a baby is their first experience with hospitalization, and as this study shows, it really matters which hospital is chosen,” said Dr. Rick May, a senior physician consultant with HealthGrades and a study co-author. “But now women have a way of identifying hospitals with outstanding track records in terms of the outcomes of other new mothers. That’s a powerful tool for all women as they plan for their birth.”
In 2008, Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital expanded its maternity care services to incorporate a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The hospital is equipped to handle difficult neonatal emergencies and is supported onsite by neonatal specialists including neonatologists and specially-trained neonatal nurses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The NICU features 15 special care (Level III) nursery beds, including two isolation rooms and one private room, and 10 continuing care nursery beds, with two private rooms. The unit is a controlled access department designed to ensure the safety and privacy of newborn patients and their families.
HealthGrades analyzed approximately 13 million hospital delivery and neonate records from 2005 through 2007 in more than 1,500 hospitals for this study. The study found that higher performing hospitals had 52% fewer maternal complications among women who had vaginal births at their facility compared to lower performing hospitals. In addition, among women who had either C-sections or patient-choice C-sections at these top performing hospitals, they experienced 76% and 84% fewer complications respectively. The full study can be found at healthgrades.com.
Learn more about the award-winning maternity care at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital by visiting CyFairHospital.com/Maternity or calling 1-800-681-2733. A virtual tour of the hospital’s Women’s Health Center is available online in addition to pregnancy education articles and interactive tools. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
HCST Premieres Disney's High School Musical 2 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 29, 2009
The cast of Houston Center Stage Theater's presentation of Disneys' High School Musical 2.
What time is it? Summer Time! Schools out and the Wildcats are back for an all new, live on stage adventure. This new Disney high energy show is an adaption of the wildly popular High School Musical.
Houston’s Center Stage Theater in collaboration with Lone Star College – CyFair proudly announces the Houston premiere of Disney’s High School Musical 2. All Performances will be held at the Lone Star College – CyFair Center for the Arts, 9191 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, TX 77433.
Performance dates are July 17 - 26. Please visit houstonscenterstage.com for reserved seat selection and to purchase tickets. Special pricing for Groups of 10 or more. Box office phone is 281-290-5201. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Women Can Take Steps to Prevent Bone Loss Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Offers Free Bone Density Screening Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 29, 2009
As we get older we slowly start to see the visible signs of aging, like some laugh lines around the mouth or a few more gray hairs that just didn’t seem to be there yesterday. These outward changes will probably be noticed, but there is another change your body may be going through that is not as easy to detect - bone loss. Approximately half of women and one-fourth of men over the age of 50 are at risk for developing osteoporosis. Our bodies break down more bone than they are able to rebuild as we age, which can weaken our bones and make them more prone to fractures. Osteoporosis, which means “porous bone,” is a disease that occurs when the bones weaken to the point that they become fragile and break easily. Today, about 10 million Americans have been diagnosed with osteoporosis and many more have lost enough bone mass so that they have a condition known as osteopenia, placing them at risk for serious bone loss and fractures. Fortunately, you can take steps to detect and treat this condition early. The National Osteoporosis Foundations makes the following recommendations to help prevent the deterioration of bone tissue and keep bones strong:
Eat a diet high in calcium and vitamin D
Engage in weight-bearing and resistance-training exercises
Avoid smoking or abusing alcohol
Talk with a doctor about bone health
Have a bone density test
Take appropriate medications or implement lifestyle changes as prescribed by your physician Attend a free bone mineral density preventive screening at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital on Saturday, July 25 in the hospital’s Professional Building Classrooms located at 11302 Fallbrook Dr. to learn more about your risk for developing osteoporosis. The event, designed for women between the ages of 40 and 65, will provide a bone density screening of the ankle, risk factor analysis and health information to help you take better care of your bones. This screening is free, but appointments are required. Call 800-681-2733 to register today. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks Installs New Officers Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 29, 2009
The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks recently installed its officers for upcoming year. Officers for the 2009-2010 are: President, Keith Peterson; President-Elect, Gary Gray; Secretary, Justin Jenkins; Treasurer, Vickie Botkin; Sergeant-At-Arms, Glen Knight. Peterson, a resident of the Cy-Fair community since 1993, is serving as club president for the second time in ten (10) years. He cited his goals to include exploring the boundaries of Rotary International for the Cypress-Fairbanks club as a collaborative effort among Rotary International, the Rotary district in which the club is located (District 5890), the club’s members, and the community. According to Peterson, “The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks will involve each of these organizations and persons to discover Rotary’s resources, to master the use of these resources, and to explore their depth. This will involve a commitment from the club’s membership and community leaders.” “The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks, according to Peterson, “has been blessed with strong leadership over the past several years with community leaders such as Glen Rowe, D. Ray Young, Ted Lewis, Justin Lindstrom, and Tom Benson. It has also been blessed with members who believe in the Rotary mission and the commitment to the Cy-Fair community”.
Miss Junior Waller County selected as Miss Teen Texas 2009 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 29, 2009
In May, Jenna Wade, current Miss Jr. Waller County 2009 was selected as Miss Teen Texas 2009. In addition to The Waller Area Chamber of Commerce, Wade would like to thank her sponsors Sim-Tex and Gallco Services for their support. To see her journey to date, click on the Teen tab at: missteentexas-world.us. She plans to attend Lone Star College CyFair in the fall. Wade will represent the great State of Texas at the Miss Teen United States Pageant. The preliminary show will be held in Houston at the Hilton Post Oak Wednesday, July 8. The winner will be crowned at the final show Friday, July 10 at the Stafford Performing Arts Centre.
Cy Ridge students showcase skills at national debate tournament Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 26, 2009
Cypress Ridge High School students put an exclamation mark on their successful 2008-2009 school year by competing at the National Forensic League (NFL) 2009 National Speech and Debate tournament in Birmingham, Ala., June 14-19.
Five students competed in various events at the meet: Brett Gray and Bradley Rheinboldt in Humorous Interpretation; Lario Albarran and Ray Roberts in Duo Interpretation; and Nick Cugini in United States Extemporaneous Speaking.
Competing against more than 200 other United States Extemporaneous Speaking competitors, Cugini became the first national NFL finalist from CFISD in more than 10 years and won third place overall. He graduated from Cypress Ridge this month and will attend Yale University in the fall.
Coach Scott Baker attributed Cugini’s success to “his undying pursuit of excellence and willingness to push further than most others when facing obstacles.”
In addition, Gray advanced to the top 60 in Humorous Interpretation and was a quarterfinalist in Prose Interpretation.
“All five of these young men are exceptional performers. Whether they advance to the national finals or not, they are all winners on so many levels,” Baker said.
Dance Salad Festival Comes to Lone Star College-CyFair Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 26, 2009
If you are fan of television dance programs, don’t miss the Dance Salad Festival video program featuring world-class dancers July 1 at Lone Star College-CyFair. TV watchers who enjoy “Dancing With the Stars” will see performances that set the standards even higher, from dance companies who perform in top theaters internationally. Dance Salad Festival is a curated international production of performances by dancers and dance companies selected solely for their excellence. Classical, modern and contemporary dance share the stage at this unique event, presented only in Houston. This Wortham Theatre’s video showing will be held as part of LSC-CyFair’s Learning, Inspiration, Fellowship, and Enrichment (L.I.F.E.) programs, which are free and held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesdays. While L.I.F.E. programs are typically held in the LSC-CyFair Branch Library, room 131, the Dance Salad program will be held in the Recital Hall, room 102 of the Center for the Arts building. A Touring Taste of Dance Salad Festival is funded in part by grants from Harris County and the Texas Commission on the Arts through the Houston Arts Alliance. Call the library at 281-290-3213 for L.I.F.E. program information or go online to LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Ever Thought About a New Career in Teaching? Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 25, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair will host an information session on two teaching programs Tuesday, July 7 on the Barker Cypress campus. The session will start at 5 p.m. and will cover information on the Associate of Arts in Teaching/Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (AAT/BAIS) joint enrollment program, in which participants can earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching degree and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston-Downtown, while taking all classes on the LSC-CyFair campus. Then at 6 p.m., those who have a bachelor’s degree will learn how to enter the teaching profession through the Alternative Certification Program. Call 281-290-3957, e-mail cy-fair.tcp@lonestar.edu or go to LoneStar.edu/cyfair-atcp. For information on UHD advising, call 281-290-3435 or go to uhd-edu/academic/distance. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Keep Your Health and Safety in Mind this 4th of July Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 25, 2009
Fireworks are fun to watch, exciting to hear, and a wonderful way to mark a special occasion like the upcoming Independence Day weekend. But as of today, a fireworks ban is in place through July 6 in Harris County for certain fireworks. This just means that it is more important than ever to keep safety in mind when planning your holiday celebrations. This 4th of July Cypress Fairbanks Urgent Care Center encourages you to take caution so you along with your family, friends and neighbors can focus on fun rather than a fire or medical emergency. According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately 9,200 people are treated for fireworks-related injures every year. Fifty-five percent of these injuries are burns, and 30 percent are bruises and cuts. Children under the age of 15 account for one-third of all fireworks injuries. The types of fireworks most likely to cause an injury include firecrackers, sparklers, Roman candles, and bottle rockets. The safest way to watch fireworks is at a professional show, not by setting off fireworks at home. When viewing a fireworks display, respect the safety barriers and select a safe viewing distance of at least 500 feet away. If you know someone who is planning a fireworks show of their own, you may want to share these safety tips from the Cypress Fairbanks Urgent Care Center: · Make sure fireworks are legal in your area. · Children should not be allowed to play with fireworks. · Watch children closely when setting off fireworks. · Only adults should light fireworks. · Keep an extinguisher, hose, or bucket of water nearby. · Do not light fireworks inside or near dry vegetation. · Do not pick up a firework that has not gone off. Do not try to relight it. Douse it with water and dispose of it. · Read the directions on fireworks before setting them off. · Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. · Do not light more than one firework at a time. · Do not wear loose-fitting clothing when lighting fireworks. In addition to potential personal injury, fireworks can cause physical damage as well. Fireworks are associated with approximately 1,800 structure fires and 700 vehicle fires each year. More fires in the United States are reported on Independence Day than any other day of the year; fireworks cause half of these fires. If an injury does occur, visit Cypress Fairbanks Urgent Care Center, your family’s physician or the nearest emergency room. The center is conveniently located on Barker Cypress near West Road, and is staffed by experienced physicians who can care for minor burns, cuts and bruises. Learn more about Cypress Fairbanks Urgent Care Center by calling 281-517-9900 or visiting CyFairUrgentCare.com.
Add L.I.F.E. to Summer with LSC-CyFair Free Programs Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 24, 2009
Enjoy a Dance Salad video, learn to reduce stress, recharge with a Nia workout, explore genealogy with Geni.com and create curry in upcoming July workshops. Lone Star College-CyFair’s Learning, Inspiration, Fellowship, and Enrichment (L.I.F.E.) programs are free and held Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the library (Room 131 unless otherwise noted) at 9191 Barker Cypress. July 1 — Touring Taste of Dance Salad Festival - Join an inspiring video of an original and eclectic mix of dancing from around the world in ARTS Recital Hall 102. July 8 — From Stress to Serenity - Learn techniques to reduce the negative effects stress has on health. Wellness Chiropractic & Rehab Center. July 15 — It's Alive! - Participate in Nia, a joyful workout which integrates the mind, body and spirit to recharge and rejuvenate. Christine Rice leads this stimulating workshop. Learn more at niamoves.com. July 22 — Build Your Family Tree for Free – LSC-CyFair offers yet another genealogical expedition with library director, Mick Stafford. From DNA to imperial dynasties, explore family history via the internet, including the hot new site, Geni.com. July 29 — Some Like it Hot - Learn to create a spicy, creamy, and silky korma curry with Patrick Gunnels, connoisseur of Indian cuisine. Call the library at 281-290-3213 for L.I.F.E. program information or go online to Lone Star.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Houston Family Arts Center announces auditions for Talley’s Folly Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 24, 2009
The Houston Family Arts Center announces open auditions for Talley's Folly winner of the 1980 New York Critics’ Circle Award and Pulitzer Prize for drama. Auditions are by appointment only Monday and Tuesday, July 6 & 7, between 6 – 9 p.m. Auditions and rehearsals will take place at the HFAC Rehearsal Studio, 10760 Grant Road, Houston, TX 77070. Sign up for auditions online at auditions@houstonfac.com.
Talley’s Folley is directed by Lisa Garza and will be performed at The Texas Repertory Theatre, 14243 Stuebner Airline in Spring Texas. Talley's Folly is the touching story of two broken and mismatched people. Set in a decaying boathouse on the eve of the Fourth of July at the tail end of WW II, Matt Friedman has come to court Sally Talley. He is bookish, erudite Jew from New York and she is a woman on the brink of being an old maid. Although Sally resists his attempts to win her love, they both reveal painful, dark secrets over the course of one evening. They discover that they are like two broken pieces of the same puzzle, meant for no one else than each other.
Cast of Characters: Matt Friedman- age 42, German-Jewish accent, preferably large and somewhat handsome.
Sally Talley- age 31, light, thin, attractive but not glamorous.
REHEARSALS are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m., starting Thursday, July 9. There may be some additional Saturday rehearsals as needed, to be determined by the director. A complete rehearsal and performance calendar will be available at auditions.
PERFORMANCES: Six performances are scheduled from Aug. 21 – Sept. 5, at The Texas Repertory Theatre. Shows for the first two weekends will be Friday and Saturday evening at 8 p.m. Closing weekend will start with an 8 p.m. show on Friday evening and conclude with a Saturday matinee at 3 p.m.
A $100 gas stipend will be paid at the conclusion of the run of the show. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Community Invited to Towne Lake July 4 Festivities Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 24, 2009
In honor of our nation’s birthday, Caldwell Companies is inviting the public to its 2nd Annual July 4th celebration on the shores of Towne Lake near Barker-Cypress and West roads in Cy-Fair. There is free admission to the event. The celebration starts at 7:30 p.m. with food, drinks, music and a Family Fun Zone featuring inflatables, a rock wall, a train, a face painter and a balloon artist. Members of the Cy-Fair Fire Department will host a truck demonstration and share important fireworks safety tips. Bass Pro Shops of Katy will display a variety of boats. At the stroke of 9:00 p.m., the sky over Towne Lake will erupt into a dazzling display of fireworks. Those who attend the concert are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets. No pets or coolers will be allowed into the event. Attendees will be directed toward parking areas and shuttled to event. Event sponsors include the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce, Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union, Cy-Fair Magazine, JNS Insurance Agency/Farmers Insurance Group, Bass Pro Shops of Katy, Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center, Waste Management, The Backyard Grill, StarTex Title Company, Fairway Golf Carts, ACE Hardware - Langham Creek, and Towne Lake’s premier builders – Coventry Homes, David Weekley Homes, Trendmaker Homes, K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons and Village Builders.
NAM’s Public Policy Committee Hosts Legislative Breakfast Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 23, 2009
The public is invited to attend a Legislative Breakfast hosted by the Northwest Assistance Ministries’ (NAM) Public Policy Committee Thursday, Aug. 27, from 7:30-9 a.m. at NAM’s 15555 Kuykendahl Rd. location. The forum includes a panel discussion on recent legislation, a question and answer session, and a chance to interact with elected officials. Program participants are U.S Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (18th Dist.), state Rep. Sylvester Turner (Dist. 139), state Rep. Debbie Riddle (Dist. 150), state Rep. Patricia Harless (Dist. 126), a representative from Mayor Bill White’s office, Harris County District Attorney Patricia Lykos, Harris County Constable Ron Hickman (Precinct 4), and Harris County Council Member Ronald Green. Additional legislators are pending. A reception and breakfast (generously provided by Starbucks at Red Oak and 1960 and Chick-fil-A on Cutten Rd. and 1960) begins at 7:30 a.m. The program begins at 8 a.m. with a welcome by NAM President and CEO Carole Little. Tom Forestier of Winstead PC and Chairman of the NAM Executive Board will moderate the question and answer portion of the event, which will be comprised of previously prepared and audience questions. The event will end by 9 a.m., with an optional tour of NAM facilities to follow. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Community members should RSVP to Cherise Luter at cluter@namonline.org or 281-885-4607. This will be the second time NAM has hosted a Legislative Breakfast. NAM’s Public Policy Strategy Committee was established in 2007 to help formulate public policies that support and enhance the organization’s mission of Neighbors Helping Neighbors. The Committee serves as a voice for NAM clients and the community by collaborating with legislators, remaining informed of legislative issues, and being a resource on social issues.
Cy-Fair FCI Announces Kid's Bottle Bank Craft Contest Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 23, 2009
Calling all creative kids with a Save-A-Saurus account at Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union! Get out the craft supplies and your imagination and enter our Save-A-Saurus Bottle Bank Craft Contest! Nine winners will be awarded a total of $150. Your bank must be made from a 16-20 ounce water bottle and have a dinosaur theme, because the Save-A-Saurus account’s mascot is a dinosaur. Decorations may include, but are not limited to, standard art and craft supplies. Entries must be received at Cy-Fair FCU, 9601 Jones Rd., Ste. 100, Houston, TX 77065 no later than Friday, July 31 at 3 p.m. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded in each of the three age categories: 0-5 years, 6-9 years and 10-12 years. First place prize is $25, second place prize is $15, and the third place prize is $10. Winners will be notified by phone August 7, 2009. Prizes will be awarded at a ceremony on August 10, 2009 at 3 p.m. at Cy-Fair FCU’s Jones Road location. You need not be present to win. Entrants must have a Save-A-Saurus account in good standing. Each entry must be accompanied by an official entry form available at www.cyfairfcu.org/promotions or in any Cy-Fair FCU location.
Patty Mooney accepts principal position at Labay MS Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 23, 2009
Patty Mooney, the principal at Keith Elementary School, was named the new principal at Labay Middle School on Monday. Mooney replaces Dr. Cheryl Johns, who was named the new principal at Langham Creek High School on June 2. Mooney has 27 years of experience in public education, 25 of which she served in CFISD schools. She taught for two years at Bane Elementary School and seven years at Francone Elementary School before accepting her first administrative position—as assistant principal at Metcalf Elementary School for five years. She then served two years as an assistant principal at Ault Elementary School before transferring to Spring Branch ISD as the principal at Hunters Creek Elementary School for two years. She returned to CFISD as the principal of Jowell Elementary School, serving four years before being named the principal to open Keith in 2004. “I am proud and excited to become a member of the Labay team. My husband, two children and I have lived in the Copperfield community for over 20 years and know what an outstanding reputation Labay has for educating students,” Mooney said. “It will be an honor and privilege to serve the Labay students, staff and parents. I look forward to meeting all my Labay Eagles soon.” Mooney received her Bachelor of Science from the State University of New York and her Master of Education from the University of Houston. She is currently in the Educational Leadership Doctoral Program at Texas A&M University. Mooney has certifications in Elementary Self-Contained, Kindergarten and Mid-Management Administration.
Teachers win A+ for Energy scholarships Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 22, 2009
Five CFISD teachers were named Texas’ winning teachers in the 2009 A+ for Energy program, sponsored by BP.
The A+ for Energy program was developed to recognize teachers for innovation and excellence in teaching energy conservation in the classroom. BP awards up to $5 million each year in grants and scholarships to pre-K through 12th-grade teachers who create innovative projects focused on energy.
The teachers will receive either a $5,000 or $10,000 grant for their proposed energy-saving projects, an all-expenses paid three-day Energy Training Conference and materials for their classrooms valued at $500 and more.
The following CFISD teachers won A+ for Energy scholarships:
• Bang Elementary School teacher Jeanetta Mieth, for her project “S.T.O.M.P. T.H.I.S.” (Start Treating Our Home Planet with the Respect it Deserves). The schoolwide project for K-5 students will explore the benefits and importance of recycling, and allow each music class to learn and perform songs about recycling. The grant will allow for the purchase of necessary equipment and materials for 976 students to make and decorate recycled instruments, which will be used to accompany songs about recycling.
• Arnold Middle School teacher Mary Patterson, for her project “Our Potential is Growing.” The project will culminate with a powerful event, “An Evening of Energy,” led by student leaders who share what they have learned about energy. Arnold will involve the community by signing up energy star pledges and collecting old CFL bulbs for proper disposal. Patterson will supplement the curriculum with materials to help students design a plan to manage energy resources, demonstrate energy transformations and the cycling of matter within living systems—such as the decay of biomass in a compost column and in biodiesel fuels.
• Millsap Elementary School teacher Carmela Simmons, for her project “Mustangs Race Toward a Brighter Future.” The project will use high school students as volunteer mentors to help first-grade students learn about the science of energy through hands-on experiments and improve their language arts skills. Students will make wind toys, tend a worm farm, explore rocks and fossils, measure energy usage and recycling in the school, and race solar cars.
• Reed Elementary School teacher Rhoda Goldberg, for her project “EmPOWERing Students.” The project will provide real-world connections for students, who will participate in many hands-on, inquiry-based activities that will allow them the freedom of choice and creativity. The major project will be to create booths and present at a school-wide “Energy Fair.” To stimulate interest in the fair, the fifth-grade students will visit K-4 classrooms to demonstrate fun activities they have prepared, show prizes and share highlights of the fair.
• Smith Middle School teacher Doreen Jarvis, for her project “Exploring Our Potential!” The project will allow for a professional development workshop that allows additional knowledge and curriculum ideas about energy resources and conservation. Smith will use new resources as teaching tools for at-risk and struggling students. Some will participate in tutorial sessions called “Science College” to prepare for teaching their energy resource. The school year will culminate with an energy carnival for current middle school students and future sixth-grade students to generate excitement about science.
Blood Drive Honors Cypress 7th Grader with Leukemia Cy-Fair - Cypress Texas News Posted June 22, 2009
The public is invited to Longwood Golf Club to support Craig Buckenham June 29 from 1 - 7 p.m. at the Longwood Golf Club in Cypress. Thirteen-year-old Craig Buckenham of Goodson Middle School was recently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Throughout Craig’s treatment at Texas Children’s Hospital, blood donations have sustained his life. Please join the “Caring for Craig” blood drive at Longwood Golf Club to help replenish the supply and support Craig and his family. Commit for Life donors who successfully complete two donations or a single double red cell donation between May 1 and Aug. 31 will be eligible to order a Kroger gift card worth $15 from the Commit for Life store. A handling fee of 200 Commit for Life store points applies. For more information, contact Tammy Giles at 281-733-5658 or 281-655-1283. Visit giveblood.org or call 888-482-5663 to schedule your donation. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Houston Family Arts Center Accepting registrations for Home School Classes for the 2009-2010 School Year Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 20, 2009
At Houston Family Arts Center, actors find that they are all like family, and they love to learn and work together! Through theatre, individuals grow in confidence, character, and acting skills, and families grow closer. Part of the magic of theatre is the relationships that are formed. Not only do young actors at Houston Family Arts Center learn about every aspect of live theatre and how all the parts fit together to make a whole; they also are sharing, making new friends and having fun! The core values for the theatre are: Family, Teamwork, Respect, Love, Integrity, Excellence, Diversity, and Fun. These eight core values are infused into every performance and every class.
This year, Houston Family Arts Center will be offering home school drama classes, beginning in the fall of 2009. A non-auditioned class for students between the ages of 7 and 17 will meet on Wednesday mornings from 10 – 11:30 am between August 19, 2009 – April 28, 2010, at the HFAC Rehearsal Studio, 10760 Grant Road, Houston, TX 77070, near the intersection of Jones and Grant. Some of the subjects covered over the course of the year will be: pantomime, movement, improvisation, scenes and monologues, articulation, volume/projection, vocal inflection, developing character, basic dance choreography, fight choreography, and singing techniques. Students will present performances twice during the school year. Cost of tuition is only $450 for the full year, spread out in monthly payments of $50 per month. A full year of classes should fulfill the requirement for one semester’s fine arts credit. Classes will be taught by a team of instructors, headed up by Pamela Moore.
In addition, HFAC will be holding auditions for performances to be rehearsed and presented during the school day. Contact HFAC at hfac@houstonfac.com to be kept informed of upcoming auditions and performance opportunities. Technical theatre opportunities for older teens are available during home school and main stage performances at Houston Family Arts Center. To view their season or find more information, visit houstonfac.com.
Pamela Moore, lead Instructor, is an actress, director, private vocal instructor, and choreographer. Pamela is the musical theatre instructor at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and has also been involved with Applause Theatre for the past 5 years as a director, choreographer, stage manager, and teacher. She earned a Bachelor’s in Musical Theatre and a Master’s in Psychology (with an emphasis in ADHD and music psychology). She is a two-time NATS Intercoastal division musical theatre winner, KCACTF nominee, Gimme-the-Mike Houston finalist, and BTP alumni. Pamela has choreographed and music-directed various middle school, high school, and church productions in the Houston area. Some theatre performance credits include Jekyll & Hyde (Ensemble) at TUTS, A Wonderful Life (Ensemble) at TUTS, Jekyll & Hyde (Emma), Footloose (Ariel), How to Succeed in Business… (Hedy), Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Milly) at HFAC, and While Childhood Slept (Vera).
The search for Miss & Mrs. Houston is on! The Houston United Southern States Scholarship pageant is now open to all applicants living in and around Houston. Each winner will advance onto the Miss/Mrs Texas pageant for even more scholarship opportunities and prizes. For more information, please visit: texascrowns.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Scholarships Awarded to Area Students by the Volunteers at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 19, 2009
The Volunteer Auxiliary at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital is proud to announce that three students have been selected this year by the Auxiliary to each be the recipient of a $4,000 college scholarship. The Volunteer Auxiliary is a non-profit organization that utilizes its donations and gift shop proceeds to award scholarships to deserving students pursuing careers in health care. Including this year’s scholarships, the group has awarded $57,000 in scholarships during the past six years. A committee of volunteers gathered to evaluate applications submitted by local students from the Cy-Fair area. Many notable students stood out for their overall school performance, community involvement and interests in making a difference in the health care industry. The following students were selected to receive this year’s honor: Laura Burt – Graduated from Cypress Woods High School and plans to attend the University of Texas at Tyler. Caitlyn Fisher – Graduated from Cypress Fairbanks High School and plans to attend the Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania. Lydia Matar – Graduated from Cypress Falls High School and plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin. The Volunteer Auxiliary and Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital wish the scholarship recipients and all the applicants the best of luck in their education and future professions. Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital would like to thank the Volunteer Auxiliary for their continuing support of the community, the hospital and the future generation of health care professionals.
Local Nurse Honored for Infection Prevention and Control Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 18, 2009
Cheryl Briggs, RN, BSN, infection preventionist at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital in northwest Houston, was recently honored by Infection Control Today magazine. Briggs was featured in the publication’s “Who’s Who in Invention Prevention,” an article showcasing outstanding health care professionals from across the nation who are involved with infection prevention and control as nominated by the magazine’s readers. Following is an excerpt from Infection Control Today highlighting the nurse: “Cheryl Briggs, BSN, infection preventionist at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital in Houston, Texas has served as the facility’s “infection control guru” since 1994, says nominator Marti McAnulty, RN, MSN, director of clinical quality/risk management. “She has not only worked tirelessly as our infection preventionist, but has juggled those duties with being the employee health nurse for a few years during that time as well,” McAnulty says. “She has worked with various staff throughout the facility, with regard to updating policies in our environment of care manual, installing antibacterial hand gel dispensers throughout the facility, working with our pharmacy and ICU manager to round on pneumonia patients to make sure they are receiving the correct antibiotics. We, as do most hospitals nowadays, almost always have a serious amount of construction going on; she works with our plant operations personnel to ensure that these areas are safe for staff, visitors and patients. During Hurricane Ike, we all stayed in lockdown for three-plus days together and she was everywhere, doing whatever needed to be done, but always our infection prevention crusader.” To learn more about Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital, call 800-681-2733 or visit CyFairHospital.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co.’s 5th Season is Something to Cheer About Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 18, 2009
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co., NW Houston’s critically-acclaimed professional theatre, offers their 2009-2010 season of plays and musicals in packages that make theatre-going affordable and convenient, giving Houston audiences truly Something to Cheer About! The new season is full of delights as broad audience appeal is carefully balanced with innovative artistic challenges for this company that has been called Houston’s “little theatre that can.” Opening the season in July will be the Tony-Award winning musical comedy Thoroughly Modern Millie, a hilarious look at making it in the big city. It is packed with thrilling tap dance and a hit score. October brings the sci-fi spoof musical Little Shop of Horrors to the stage, complete with a sparkling doo-wop score and a man-eating plant that sings! The Texas Repertory Theatre continues its tradition of offering classic Christmas fare for the entire family by bringing a fresh new adaptation of Miracle on 34th Street to holiday audiences. The spring begins with a true classic and the greatest treatise on love ever penned, William Shakespeare’s beautiful Romeo & Juliet, in a lushly romantic new production that features The Texas Repertory Theatre’s outstanding company of actors. In the theatre’s tradition of fostering new works, March brings a Regional Premiere new comedy Kite’s Book: Tales of an 18th Century Hit Man. A Pirates-of-the Caribbean-meets-James Bond swashbuckler, the play follows our man Kite as he battles and quips his way through a rogue’s gallery of historical and hysterical characters. Closing the season in May will be the hilarious farce comedy A Flea in Her Ear, one of the funniest plays ever written! Discounted season tickets are available now, with a variety of packages to fit every taste and budget. For more information, please call The Texas Repertory Theatre box office at 281-583-7573 or visit texreptheatre.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Houston Family Arts Center Presents BIG RIVER Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 17, 2009
The Houston Family Arts Center (HFAC) presents Roger Miller’s adventurous and humorous musical Big River – The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, winner of 7 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Come along for the adventure of a lifetime! Join Huck Finn and runaway slave Jim on a musical trip down the Mississippi River in Mark Twain’s classic tale. Performed by special arrangement with R&H Theatricals and directed by Ilich Guardiola, Big River opens for a three week limited engagement July 24, 2009, at the Berry Center at 8877 Barker Cypress in Cypress, TX. Tickets are affordably priced at $12-$16 and are now on sale for all performances.
Big River stars all local Houston actors including Logan Vaden as Huck Finn, David Allen III and Ron Bunch double cast as Jim, David Chrisman as “The King,” Joshua Clark as “The Duke,” Justin Dresner as Tom Sawyer, Linda Branam as Widow Douglas, Pamela Moore as Miss Watson, Ellen Dyer as Mary Jane Wilkes, and Richard Hahn as Pap Finn. Directed by Ilich Guardiola, with Assistant Director Jonathan Foster, music direction by Kathy Elder, and choreography by Monica Bradley.
Performances are at The Berry Center, which is located at 8877 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, TX 77433. Performances dates and times are:
Friday, July 24 at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 25 at 8 p.m. Sunday, July 26 at 3 p.m. Friday, July 31 at 8 p.m. Saturday, August 1 at 8 p.m. Sunday, August 2 at 3 p.m. Friday, August 7 at 8 p.m. Saturday, August 8 at 3 p.m.
Tickets are just $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $12 for students. For tickets and additional information call 281-685-6374 or select your seats online at houstonfac.com. Group prices are available for groups of more than 10. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Bridgeland and Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center Host Blood Drive Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 17, 2009
The Bridgeland community and the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center are partnering to host a blood drive from 1-5 p.m. Sunday, June 28.
The center’s bloodmobile will be parked at Bridgeland’s Welcome Center, 16919 North Bridgeland Lake Parkway, to take donations. People can donate every three months and should expect the entire donation process — from registration to post-donation refreshments — to take about an hour. Individuals who are at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good health can donate. Those who are age 16, weigh at least 122 pounds, are in good health and have their parents’ consent also can participate. Donors should drink plenty of fluids and try to eat iron-rich foods (red meat, iron-fortified cereal or green, leafy vegetables) one to two hours before donating.
Blood donations are truly life-sustaining gifts. According to the center, blood donations can help a variety of individuals — trauma victims, surgery patients, premature babies, cancer patients and others, including those with anemia.
To schedule your donation, visit www.giveblood.org or call 1-888-482-5663. The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is a non-profit, independent blood center and is not affiliated with the American Red Cross. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
CFISD graduation rate tops among large school districts Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 16, 2009
The 2009 edition of Diplomas Count, released by Education Week on June 9, announced that Cypress-Fairbanks ISD has the highest graduation rate among the nation’s 50 largest school districts.
CFISD, tied for the top spot with Montgomery County, Md., had a graduation rate of 80.7 percent, well above the national and state averages of 69.2 percent and 65.3 percent, respectively. The research was based on the latest available data from the Class of 2006, and lists CFISD as the 35th-largest school district in the country. Since the 2005-2006 school year, district enrollment has increased from 86,445 to almost 104,000 students.
“Data continues to support CFISD as a nationally recognized school district,” said Dr. David Anthony, superintendent of schools. “Clearly, the district excels in providing a quality education to its students in order to pursue their post-secondary goals in college or the workforce.”
The study conducted by the Editorial Projects in Education (EPE) Research Center examined data using the Cumulative Promotion Index (CPI) method to calculate graduation rates. The CPI represents the high school experience as a process rather than a single event, capturing the four key steps a student must take in order to graduate: three grade-to-grade promotions (9 to 10, 10 to 11 and 11 to 12) and ultimately earning a diploma (grade 12 to graduation).
Since 1989, Education Week has covered policy developments in K-12 education. It is published 37 times a year, and also publishes three highly anticipated reports each year: Diplomas Count, Quality Counts and Technology Counts.
Challenge Index includes 3 CFISD high schools Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 16, 2009
For the second consecutive school year, Cy-Fair, Cypress Creek and Langham Creek high schools ranked among the top 1,500 U.S. high schools in the country, according to the Washington Post and Newsweek’s annual Challenge Index.
The Challenge Index is determined by dividing the number of Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge tests taken by all students at a school in 2008 divided by the number of graduating seniors. All of the schools on the list have an index of at least 1.000, meaning they are in the top 6 percent of public schools measured this way.
Cy-Fair appeared in the Index for the third time, coming in at No. 1,026 with an index of 1.467. Cy-Fair had an equity and excellence percentage of 17.9 and a subsidized lunch percentage of 13. The school ranked No. 1,403 in 2008 and No. 1,218 in 2006.
“It is an honor for Cy-Fair High School to be placed in the top 6 percent of schools by Newsweek magazine,” said Mike Smith, Cy-Fair principal. “Our staff and students have worked hard and I am glad to see them get this recognition.”
Cypress Creek came in at No. 1,190 with an index of 1.308, an equity and excellence percentage of 18 and a subsidized lunch percentage of 21. This was Cypress Creek’s fourth consecutive year to be ranked and its fifth time total in the six years the Index has existed. Cypress Creek ranked No. 1,328 in 2008, No. 1,167 in 2007, No. 1,075 in 2006 and No. 742 in 2003.
“Traditionally, Cy Creek has always had a culture that supported a rigorous academic profile. We want to maintain a strong college prep experience for all of our students, and the fact that we keep making the list is evidence that many of our students are meeting the AP challenge,” said Jim Wells, Cypress Creek principal. “Our goal is to increase our participation rate by encouraging more students from across the spectrum of our student body to gain the confidence to enroll in dual credit and AP courses. Many students have the capability to succeed in these courses; we just need to convince them of that and remove the barriers preventing them from participating.”
Langham Creek ranked at No. 1,288 with an index of 1.213, an equity and excellence percentage of 14 and a subsidized lunch percentage of 32. It was the fifth consecutive year for Langham Creek to be ranked by the Index. Langham Creek was No. 1215 in 2008, No. 919 in 2007, No. 1,121 in 2006 and No. 974 in 2005.
“Langham Creek is extremely proud of this recognition of positive student achievement for the fifth consecutive year,” said Tom Strother, Langham Creek principal from 2002-2009. “We feel that it is indicative of the high expectations set by our teachers and dedicated effort by all stakeholders, including staff, students and parents.”
Host a high school exchange student Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 15, 2009
If you have room in your hearts and room in your home, the SHARE! High School Exchange Program is seeking families in the Houston area to host exchange students from more than thirty different countries during the upcoming school year. The students will arrive in August 2009 and will stay with families to provide a bed, meals, as well as friendship, understanding, and a genuine desire to share the American way of life with a youngster from overseas. The exchange students, who are between the ages of 15 and 18, speak English, are covered by medical insurance, and have spending money for their personal expenses. “It may seem early to be making plans for the next school year,” says Rana Sanchez, the local program coordinator for the SHARE! Program.. “However, there are already students who are eagerly awaiting news of their host family so they can begin writing to them. Now is the best time to select an exchange student to ensure there will be a place in the local high school.” The SHARE! High School Exchange Program is sponsored by Educational Resource Development Trust (ERDT), a non-profit organization. Families are able to review student applications and select the student they feel will best match their own interests. For more information, call Rana Sanchez at 281-408-9601 or email rana.sanchez@yahoo.com . Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
For Independence Day on Saturday, July 4, Willowbrook Mall will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. On Sunday, July 5, the shopping center will observe regular hours from noon to 6 p.m. Department stores, restaurants and entertainment venues at the shopping center may keep different hours. Please call for exact opening and closing times.
Bridgeland to Host Area Triathlon Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 12, 2009
The area’s most physically fit will test their prowess Sunday, Aug. 9, during the inaugural Bridgeland Triathlon.
The running-biking-swimming event is expected to attract 600 athletes and hundreds of spectators and volunteers. Sanctioned by USA Triathlon, the event will include a 482-meter swim in Lake Bridgeland, a 3.28-mile run throughout the master-planned community and along the Cypress Creek Nature Trail and a 14-mile bike course on Fry Road.
Pre-race activities begin at 5 a.m. with the triathlon starting at 7 a.m. The awards ceremony is set for 10 a.m. A variety of awards will be given, including overall and overall masters (age 40+) male and female winners and male and female group winners in the following age categories: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69 and over 70. All-male, all-female and co-ed relay winners also will receive awards, as will winners of the under 40 and over 40 Clydesdales and Athenas (racers over a specified weight).
Online registration continues through Saturday, Aug. 1. Individual entry fees are $70 and relay entry fees are set at $100.
The event, which will give proceeds to a variety of local school and community organizations, also will have a host of door prizes.
“We are so glad to be involved in the triathlon,” said Elizabeth Hart-Dominguez, Bridgeland’s activities director. “With our many natural resources, Bridgeland is the perfect environment for such an event.”
Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation is the event’s title sponsor and presenting sponsor is Onurleft Sports. Official sponsors include Chris Blume, DDS, Luke’s Locker and Bike Barn. Lane Four Swim Shop and Brooks are elite sponsors. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Temple Sinai announces new Rabbi Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News June 11, 2009
Temple Sinai, the oldest Reform Synagogue in West Houston and conveniently located just minutes from Katy, is pleased to announce the hiring of Anne E. Belford as its new rabbi. A native Texan, Belford will officially join the 30‐year‐old congregation on July 1 and conduct her first service on Friday July 3.
Rabbi Annie, as she is affectionately known by her congregants, was born and raised in El Paso. A graduate of the University of Judaism in Los Angeles, she received her rabbinical ordination from Hebrew‐Union College in New York City in 2004.
For the past five years, Belford has served as an assistant and associate rabbi for Congregation Shaare Emeth in St. Louis, Missouri.
“We are thrilled to have Rabbi Annie join Temple Sinai,” said congregation president Emily Deakins. “She is a deeply caring and compassionate individual who connects with people emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.”
“I am filled with joy and a sense of deep honor to be joining Temple Sinai,” says Belford. “It is a warm and inviting congregation committed to bringing Jewish values to life ‐ for both adult members and children alike. These are values that are central to my life, which makes Temple Sinai a good fit for myself and my family.”
Belford is married to Rabbi Ari Vernon, a Conservative Rabbi and Jewish educator. Belford and Vernon have two children, Lev and Eiden.
Temple Sinai began its search for a new rabbi in early 2008. It received dozens of applications and selected Belford based on her experience and approach to Judaism. “I am truly in love with Judaism and its teachings,” says Belford. “As a rabbi, I try to bring Jewish learning to life and allow tradition to speak to us as modern Jews. I want to teach others how Judaism has relevance for people’s lives today.”
Senator Dan Patrick Seeks Solution to CFISD's Lack of State Funding Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 10, 2009
An action item regarding the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD's 20% Optional Homestead Exemption (OHE) was anticipated to be placed on the June 15, 2009 meeting agenda for the CFISD Board of Trustees. However, the Board will not take action on the OHE at this meeting in order to allow State Sen. Dan Patrick the opportunity to address the state's inequitable funding of CFISD with officials in Austin. In an email to Cy-Fair community members, Sen. Patrick stated that he was working every hour and talking to everyone in authority he could in Austin, and in the district, to find a positive solution for both the district and the taxpayers. "I have heard from both sides on this issue. Homeowners do not want to lose the exemption. Those who support public education do not want any cuts in the district. Many people, homeowners who have children in the district, or teachers who live in the district and will see any raise virtually wiped out by increased property taxes, are caught in the middle. The question people ask is why is this happening, " stated Sen. Patrick in his email to taxpayers. "Cy-Fair has until the end of the month before making a decision. I am dedicated to working with all of the stakeholders to resolve this situation now so that neither the district or the homeowners are punished for what everyone agrees is a flawed formula from 2005," he said. The CFISD Board of Trustees is scheduled to meet at a special-called meeting on June 25, 2009.
The CFISD Board of Trustees annual goal-setting workshop, originally scheduled for Thursday, June 11, has been postponed pending the Board’s adoption of the 2009-2010 budget.
By Texas law, a school district that completes its fiscal year in June must adopt the next year’s budget by June 30. The goal-setting workshop will be rescheduled once the budget has been approved by the Board.
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Honored by Texas Hospital Association Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 10, 2009
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital is being honored as a long-time member of the Texas Hospital Association. The hospital was one of nine throughout the state to receive a 25-year membership award from the Association this year. The award was officially presented to the hospital’s chief executive officer, Terry Wheeler, by Della Vallejo, THA’s membership manager, during a June 2 visit to the hospital. “Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital has joined the ranks of a special group of Texas hospitals that have achieved 25-year membership status in THA,” noted Vallejo. “This is a significant milestone, and THA thanks the hospital for its long-term support.” Founded in 1930, the Texas Hospital Association is the leadership organization and principal advocate for the state’s hospitals and health care systems. Based in Austin, THA enhances its members’ abilities to improve accessibility, quality and cost-effectiveness of health care for all Texans. One of the largest hospital associations in the country, THA represents more than 85 percent of the state’s acute-care hospitals and health care systems, which employ some 355,000 health care professionals statewide.
The Freeman Agency Awards Insurance Scholarship Fund to Cy-Fair High School Student Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 10, 2009
The Freeman Agency, a local health benefits company, is pleased to announce the winner of its Health Insurance Scholarship Fund for NW Houston. Andy Tran of Cy-Fair High School has been awarded two insurance policies; a two-year, full-health insurance plan and a five year life insurance policy. “We understand that college can be stressful, for both student and parents,” says Carter Freeman, managing partner of the Freeman Agency. “Hopefully, with the security of these insurance policies, this family will be able to focus on the exciting part of college; their child’s future.” The goal in awarding this scholarship is to help teach students the importance of proper health benefits and how they operate. Andy will be attending the University of Houston where he will major in engineering. While attending Cy-Fair High School, Andy remained active in many organizations and programs, such as the United States Achievement Academy, computer club, math club, Asian club and break-dance club. Andy also participated in many competitions, such as the math bowl, several computer science contests and HP code wars. Some awards that Andy received during his high school career included awards of academic achievement, academic excellence top GPA honors program, and more.
Langham Creek senior basketball players Steve Bob-Nabenaand Jeff Greene will remain teammates for the next phase of their academic careers when they play at Concordia University in 2009-2010.Pictured, from left to right, are Ryan Garney, freshman coach; Bob-Nabena; Charles Ament, varsity coach; Greene; and Alex Denson, junior varsity coach.
Langham Creek High School basketball players Jeff Greene and Steve Bob-Nabena decided to attend Concordia University in Austin, where they will play basketball in 2009-2010.
Greene and Bob-Nabena will play for head coach Stan Bonewitz’s Tornados at the school. While playing Division III athletics, Greene will pursue a business degree and Bob-Nabena will pursue a pre-medical degree.
Langham Creek head boys’ basketball coach Charles Ament said Greene and Bob-Nabena should adapt well to the Tornados’ style, which mirrors the Lobos’.
“It was a great honor to have student-athletes like Jeff and Steve in the Lobo basketball program. They embody everything that is good about the community of Langham Creek,” Ament said. “I was blessed to have such terrific players and people in my two years of being head coach. Their work ethic and the type of quality people they are is more than any coach could ever ask for. On top of that, they are talented players and will be contributing right away at Concordia.”
Cy Lakes students create murals for Health Expo Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 9, 2009
Cypress Lakes art students and teachers take a rest aftercreating murals at the Health Expo on May 16. Pictured, back row from left to right, are art teacher Lee Ann Jackson and Cassandra Banda;(second row) art teacher Julie Gawel, Autumn Rainwater, Nicole Grady, Jacqueline Rocha and Layla Bakhtiara; (front row) Katherine Nguyen and Christine Nguyen.
Cypress Lakes High School art students and teachers provided visitors with an exhibition of admirable artwork at CFISD’s first annual Health Expo on Saturday, May 16.
The students and teachers created four different murals that represented themes emphasized at the Health Expo. The artists used the grid method to work on the large pieces, which served as a helpful technique and promoted teamwork as the students worked side-by-side throughout the day. All work that was used for the murals came from original designs, which were duplicated into the larger squares.
Cy-Fair students receive appointments to service academies Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 8, 2009
Cy-Fair High School graduating seniors, Ian Culpepper, Hannah Legler and Brian Fitzgerald, have received appointments to attend United States service academies this year.
The appointees completed several prerequisites before being accepted, including strong performance on the ACT or SAT, strong performance on a physical aptitude exam, passage of a medical examination and examples of strong leadership traits. They then had to obtain a Congressional or service-connected nomination and interview with an admission representative before waiting to see if they were among the few U.S. students selected.
Culpepper was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., while Legler and Fitzgerald were both appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.
“This is a huge honor for Brian, Hannah and Ian,” said Cy-Fair principal Mike Smith. “They should be very proud of themselves and I know we are proud of them. A student has to be well-rounded and excel in many areas in order to even be considered for a military appointment.”
Superintendent asks CFISD residents to view video Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 8, 2009
Dear Key Communicators:
The Legislative Session has concluded and the financial challenges that CFISD has been facing due to inequitable state funding were not resolved. In fact, the state continues to under fund our district and we are faced with difficult decisions that affect our entire community. I spoke to the CFISD staff across the district this morning because they will experience these challenges both as educators and taxpayers in CFISD. I am asking you to watch the video posted on CFTV Online or if you prefer, listen to the podcast or read my talking points. Whatever your preference, please take time to get the facts about the recommendation that I will be making to the Board of Trustees to remove the Optional Local Homestead Exemption. In addition, please help us communicate accurate information by forwarding this message to those in our community. Your understanding of the district and the importance of the children we educate is appreciated.
Sincerely, David Anthony, Ed. D.
Rivals.com names Ogwumike top player for 2010 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 5, 2009
Cy-Fair High School incoming senior basketball player Chiney Ogwumike has been labeled the No. 1 high school girls’ prospect for the Class of 2010 by Rivals.com.
As a junior, Ogwumike averaged 21.4 points and 12.6 rebounds per game, a year after being a part of Cy-Fair’s 2007-2008 state championship team.
In the article posted about her on Rivals.com, the 6-foot-3 Ogwumike said, “I know what I'm here for. I’m here to play the game. I’m here to have fun and get better, and I think as long as I’m doing that, I’m going to be No. 1 in my book. Numbers don’t matter to me, really, as long as I accomplish what I set out to do.”
Additionally, Rivals.com listed Cy-Fair incoming junior guard Cassie Peoples as a “Girls Hoops 10 to Watch” for the Class of 2011.
Reed students succeed in math program Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 5, 2009
The Reed Elementary School First in Math team, “Team Supreme,” placed third in the state and first in the district in the program.
Reed Elementary School fifth-grade students in Rhoda Goldberg’s class boosted their math skills and relished the thrill of competition this school year by using the online program First in Math.
Created by Suntex International, the program uses 24 Games—ranging from addition to multi-step algebra—as its backbone, which is organized into Skill Sets that are comprised of three sequential 24 Games, labeled 1, 2 and 3. Students can also play Bonus Games and Workout Gyms to beef up their skills before taking the pre-test module Just the Facts and three Know & Show modules that provide a unique way for students to experience the types of problems found in standardized tests.
Each student has his or her own login and password to be able to play at home in addition to the classroom. Students work at their own paces and move up levels, so instruction is differentiated according to ability. As they move up, they earn “stickers,” the competitive part of the program. At any time, students can see where they or their class is ranked by their sticker count as compared to others in the class, school, district, state or nation.
“It was truly amazing to watch my students as they participated in the program. They would come in every morning talking about how long they played the night before and what their ranking was,” Goldberg said. “They would plan First in Math get-togethers on the weekends to play. Parents would tell me how their child was up until midnight the night before playing First in Math or that they were over at the neighbor’s house playing because their Internet was down and the neighbor finally had to kick them out. I was so impressed with the students’ level of motivation.”
Reed’s “Team Supreme” was the district First in Math winner and the No. 3 team in Texas. The top three players from “Team Supreme” were Ryan Phan, Russell Tolliver and Jabari Fowler.
“The thing we liked about First in Math is the competition against other players and the difficulty levels of the math,” said Phan and Tolliver. “We learned skills not usually taught in fifth grade, like exponents, algebra, integers, fractions, decimals and percents.”
Hancock Elementary School second-grade teacher Margaret Clarke and
students Trevor Leon and Grace Smith observe the texture of a plant at the
Sensory Garden on Wednesday.
Students, staff and community members celebrated the unveiling of the new Sensory Garden at Hancock Elementary School on the last day of school Wednesday afternoon.
The 40- by 60-foot garden is a culmination of the joint effort by CFISD, the Hancock Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), the Prestonwood Forest Utility District (PFUD) and Murr Incorporated—a landscape preservation and restoration consulting firm—to create an environment that stimulates all five senses of special needs students.
Featuring special exhibits for hearing- and visual-impaired children, as well as for those who are not, the Hancock Sensory Garden features three types of native grasses, 35 varieties of shrubs and five types of trees. Benches were constructed to facilitate class learning opportunities, and the handicapped accessible area is protected by an ornamental security fence and special lighting.
Hancock celebrated the garden’s opening with special guest Jerry Eversole, Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner. Also in attendance were representatives from the North Harris County Regional Water Authority (NHCRWA)—including its mascot, the Texas Water Hog; Michael Murr, owner of Murr Incorporated; and members of the PFUD board of directors.
Visitors to the garden enjoyed its many amenities, including the sounds of wind chimes in the trees and water flowing in the fountains; the sight of the brilliant color of blooming plants; the smells and tastes of herbs and vegetables; and the touch of Braille plaques offering additional information.
The Sensory Garden was designed to demonstrate important water conserving and environment-friendly principles, according to John Broadfoot, PFUD board member.
Kathy Dickson, the former principal at Hancock and current principal at M. Robinson Elementary School, began seeking out funding for the Sensory Garden back in 2007. With the underwriting by the PFUD, a donation from the Hancock PTO and a grant from Lowe’s Home Improvement, the garden came to fruition in 2008. Although Dickson had relocated to M. Robinson, she was delighted to see the final project when she returned to Hancock last April.
“When I arrived at the school there was an art class outside sketching all of the garden’s nature. The kids all wanted to show me their pictures,” she said. “The flowers were coming into full bloom at the time and it was a breathtaking sight. I was so pleased to see how the Sensory Garden had truly provided invaluable educational opportunities for every single Hancock student.”
Jersey Village students accepted to service academies Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 3, 2009
Two Jersey Village High School graduating seniors, Raj Kankaria and Victor Lopez, have received appointments to attend United States service academies in the summer.
The appointees completed several prerequisites before being accepted, including strong performance on the ACT or SAT, strong performance on a physical aptitude exam, passage of a medical examination and examples of strong leadership traits. They then had to obtain a Congressional or service-connected nomination and interview with an admission representative before waiting to see if they were among the few U.S. students selected.
Kankaria was appointed to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., and Lopez was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.
“Jersey Village High School and Cy-Fair ISD has a rich history of our graduates being appointed to the United States service academies,” said Jersey Village principal Ralph Funk. “I can think of no students more deserving of appointments than Raj Kankaria and Victor Lopez. These young men are outstanding students and have overcome great obstacles to achieve this honor. They have been student leaders for four years at JVHS. We will miss them, but the future of our country is in good hands because of students such as Raj and Victor.”
Langham Creek welcomes Cheryl Johns as new principal Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 2, 2009
Cheryl Johns, the principal at Labay Middle School, was named the principal at Langham Creek High School on Monday. Johns replaces Tom Strother, who is retiring at the end of the 2008-2009 school year.
Johns has 26 years of experience in public education. She began her career at Klein High School in Klein ISD before coming to Cypress-Fairbanks ISD in 1986 as a speech and debate teacher at Cypress Creek High School. She transferred to Cypress Falls High School as a teacher prior to being promoted to the position of director of instruction at Truitt Middle School in 1995, where she served for six years. In 2001, she transferred to Jersey Village High School, where she served as director of instruction for one year before moving to associate principal. In February 2005, she took over as principal at Labay.
“While trying to fill my friend Tom Strother’s shoes is somewhat intimidating, I am excited about the opportunity to return to high school,” Johns said. “My reception at Langham Creek this week was truly warm and welcoming and I look forward to learning about and experiencing the wonderful Lobo traditions. Most importantly, I can't wait to begin our academically, artistically and athletically exemplary journey together.”
Johns received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas and her master’s and doctorate degrees in education from the University of Houston. Her certifications include Secondary Speech (6-12), Secondary Spanish (6-12), Mid-management Administrator (PK-12), Supervisor (PK-12) and Superintendent (EC-12).
Graduation ceremonies take place this week Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 2, 2009
CFISD will hold a district-record nine graduation ceremonies this week at the Berry Center (8877 Barker Cypress Road).
The district continues to air graduation ceremonies live over multiple media, broadcasting on CFTV Ch. 16 for local Comcast Cable subscribers and streaming live from the district website at www.cfisd.net.
The broadcast schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, June 3 • Windfern High School, 7 p.m.
Thursday, June 4 • Jersey Village High School, 7 p.m.
Friday, June 5 • Cypress Creek High School, 7 p.m.
Saturday, June 6 • Langham Creek High School, 8:30 a.m. • Cypress Falls High School, noon • Cy-Fair High School, 3:30 p.m. • Cypress Springs High School, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 7 • Cypress Ridge High School, 1 p.m. • Cypress Woods High School, 4:30 p.m.
Those attending graduation ceremonies at the Berry Center should prepare for heavy traffic near Barker Cypress and West roads. A detailed graduation parking map is available at http://www.berrycenter.net/gradparking.html and frequently asked questions are answered at http://www.berrycenter.net/GradFAQ.html.
Cy Ridge cadets selected for Aerospace Technology Honors Camp Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 2, 2009
Cypress Ridge High School Air Force Junior ROTC cadets Jennifer Alvarez and Elizabeth “Libby” Murphey will attend the week-long Aerospace Technology Honors Camp this summer at the University of Oklahoma.
Alvarez and Murphey were selected by a board of Air Force officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers at Headquarters AFJROTC on Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Ala., for this highly competitive Air Force-sponsored camp. All camps are hosted near Air Force Bases where many of the orientation and training activities will take place. The Air Force funds all expenses for the cadets for the entire week, including travel.
The objective of the Aerospace & Technology Honors Camp is to introduce high-achieving high school cadets to scientific, technical, and rated career opportunities in the Air Force. ATHC selection is very competitive, as those selected must have a minimum GPA of 3.67, be rising sophomores, juniors or seniors enrolled in college preparatory math and science courses and demonstrate leadership potential.
The board’s selection process mirrored the Air Force promotion boards as well as ROTC scholarship boards, choosing from 1 percent of all AFJROTC cadets and selecting only 432 of more than 107,000 AFJROTC cadets to attend the camp.
The Secretary of the Air Force initiative will orient selected AFJROTC cadets to aerospace technology educational opportunities and aerospace-related careers through a “hands-on” curriculum including visits to college campuses, air and space operational units, research labs, historical sites, aerospace industries, research and technology centers and museums and provide each cadet with an incentive flight.
Additionally, cadets will hear lectures from general officers, astronauts and pilots and participate in simulator and airplane rides. Each camp is hosted on a college campus with an Air Force ROTC detachment.
Cadet Murphey plans to be a physician and has been selected to attend that specific camp, while Cadet Alvarez plans to become an Air Force officer and fly jets.
Cypress Woods High School junior Cyrus Iqbal won the grand prize in the 2009 Coca-Cola Share The Dream essay contest.
Iqbal won the contest among a pool of 5,000 entries from the greater Houston and Dallas areas. Students were required to write 500-word essays responding to the theme “Change is inevitable. How will it impact you? More importantly, how will you impact change?” and submit them during the month of February.
Iqbal wrote about the transition of moving from New York to Texas and the struggles that came with adjusting to a new school and setting. He also addressed his hope to become a doctor like his mother and impact change by battling patients’ diseases.
For winning the grand prize, Iqbal received $2,500, a laptop and two round-trip plane tickets to during an awards ceremony in early May at Minute Maid Park.
“I think that imagery is what won the contest for him,” said Iqbal’s teacher Candace Tannous, the English Department chair. “With a limit of 500 words, Cyrus really had to wordsmith and make every word count. We’re thrilled for his success.”
Since the inception of the contest in 1998, Coca-Cola has awarded more than 320 students with more than $200,000, with the goal of inspiring creativity and reward students for excellence.
Bang, Sampson students place first at DI Global Finals Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 1, 2009
The Sampson Superstars from Sampson Elementary Schoolcelebrate their
first-place trophy in Private DI at the Destination ImagiNation Global
Finals. The team is (kneeling) Christian Sullivan;(middle row) Alex
Duensing, Haley Brusen, Sharon Zhou, Will Hudson, Kate Laymon and Yash
Chulki; (back row) Angie Duensing, team manager; CarolynYoung, school
sponsor; and Laurie Hudson, team manager.
Two CFISD teams placed first and two others finished in the top 20 of their respective events at the Destination ImagiNation (DI) Global Finals in Knoxville, Tenn., May 20-23.
Competing against the most talented competitors from around the world, the DI Dynamites from Bang Elementary School placed first in the Elementary Level of Operation Cooperation, while the Sampson Superstars from Sampson Elementary School placed first in the Elementary Level of Private DI.
The DI Dynamites’ team members are James Gutierrez, third grade; Ali Zaidi, third grade; Kevin Turner, fourth grade; Kaitlyn Zera, fourth grade; Mohammad Zaidi, fifth grade; and Mustafa Khan, fifth grade. The team managers are Kathryn and Frank Gutierrez and the school sponsor is Kristine Ashmead.
The Sampson Superstars’ team members are fifth-grade students Sharon Zhou, Will Hudson, Alex Duensing, Kate Laymon, Haley Brusen, Yash Chulki and Christian Sullivan. The team managers are Angela Duensing and Laurie Hudson and the school sponsor is Carolyn Young.
The Billion Bolts of Brilliance from Hamilton Elementary School placed 16th in the world in the Elementary Level of Instinct Messaging. The team members are fifth-grade students Ryan Martin, Ryan Lancaster, Ben Miller, Pooja Shankar, Esha Dewan, Hannah Phillips and Caleb Longan. The team managers are John and Judy Martin and Gillian Miller and the school sponsor is Betty Collette.
The Squirrels from Hamilton Middle School placed 19th in the world in the Middle School Level of Operation Cooperation. The team members are seventh-grade students Erin Curby, Patrick Martin, Mitch Shockley, Ross Tuzin and Kirsten Williamson. The team managers are Angie Williamson and Bill Tuzin and the school sponsor is Amanda Herber.
LSC-CyFair Hosts Italy and China Study Abroad Programs Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 1, 2009
Earning college credit while experiencing the day-to-day life in Italy and China this summer are more than 30 Lone Star College-CyFair Study Abroad students. “The world has become very small,” said LSC-CyFair’s Dean of Instructional and Organizational Development Abdul Tamimi. “Through travel abroad, our students become more aware of what is going on outside of where they live. Many return with a different outlook about the world and they have a better appreciation about life in general.” Amanda Pfluger and Jennifer Smith, students in last year’s inaugural Italy Study Abroad Program, returned home with an understanding and appreciation for a different, more relaxed culture, where people just live, they said. Zayda Cortez and Donald Smith are among the 20 students now immersed in the Italian culture for themselves living in Castallammare de Stabia at the Vesuvian International Institute and then in Frascati as they visit Rome. Cortez, a nutrition major, couldn’t pass up an opportunity to travel. Donald Smith, an architecture major, wanted to see the architectural capitol of the world. However, it’s more than sightseeing, it’s learning western civilization with professor Rob Coyle and world geography with professor Buck Buchanan. What did Jennifer Smith, an architecture turned history major, and Pfluger, an English major, think about Italy as their classroom? “It makes it all come alive” and “It sank in more having the examples right there,” they said respectively. They agreed learning is more exciting, and admit even sometimes distracting, when professors can point out the window at the building they’re talking about or when students are in Rome learning history and seeing the Coliseum in person. “Lone Star College System is located in a world class city and our students graduating with global competency skills are a must,” said LSCS Director of International Programs and Services Nithyanantha Sevanthinathan. “Having Study Abroad experiences in their academic journey will make a world of difference in their life mission. Because of this life changing event, LSCS is committed to provide need-based scholarships.” In addition to doubling participants in the Italy Study Abroad Program this year, LSC-CyFair added an inaugural China Study Abroad at Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China, with professors Carolyn Ho, teaching Beginning Chinese, and Robert O’Brien, teaching World History. Save the date Aug. 4 – Aug. 27 and check out the Bosque Gallery’s exhibition “Confluence, Study Abroad 2009” showcasing the student installations and photography taken during this summer’s study abroad trips to Italy and China. LSCS will continue to develop the diversity of first-rate Study Abroad Programs with plans for LSC-CyFair to offer Greece and Sri Lanka programs next May. For information on LSCS Study Abroad programs go to http://www.lonestar.edu/study-abroad.htm.
The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks Awards College Scholarships Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted June 1, 2009
The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks recently awarded scholarships to students from four Cy-Fair High School Interact Clubs. Cypress Falls High School Senior Bradley Matthews, Cypress Ridge High School Senior Kelsey King, Cypress Woods High School Senior Zack Sledge, and Jersey Village High School Senior Laura Ortiz were each awarded $1,000 as their school’s outstanding Interact students to attend the colleges of their choice.
Interact is a Rotary-sponsored service club for young people ages 14-18. The program gives students an opportunity to participate in fun, meaningful service projects while developing leadership skills and meeting new friends. Through service activities, students learn the importance of developing leadership skills and personal integrity, demonstrating helpfulness and respect for others, and advancing international understanding and goodwill. The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks hosts Interact clubs at Cypress Falls, Cypress Ridge, Cypress Woods, and Jersey Village High Schools.
From the CFISD Superintendent Graduation Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 29, 2009
Dear Key Communicator: The last day of school is Wednesday, June 3. Please be prepared for slower moving traffic in school zones. You can help keep our students safe by staying alert to children walking home or riding bicycles.
Beginning on Wednesday, June 3, and continuing through Sunday, June 7, we will graduate about 6,300 seniors at the Berry Center. Although you may not have students participating in graduation, commencement ceremonies will affect everyone in close proximity to the Berry Center. By working together, we can have a safe and enjoyable weekend.
Parents will need to plan ahead, study the traffic maps that are posted on the Berry Center website at http://www.berrycenter.net/gradparking.html designating parking lot entrances and exits, celebrate their student's commencement, and be sensitive to exit the Berry Center quickly to allow for visitors for the next school's graduation exercises.
Patrons are advised to avoid Barker Cypress Road if at all possible or be prepared for delays. The Berry Center is such an asset to the community, families, and graduates, allowing our students to graduate at home. However, all the traffic will be concentrated along Barker Cypress and the streets that intersect it.
All graduations will be televised LIVE on CFTV Channel 16 so that some guests may elect to stay at home and watch their graduates cross the stage and receive diplomas. In addition, these commencement exercises are streamed LIVE onto the district website at www.cfisd.net for relatives and friends living anywhere in the world with internet access.
Your continued support in sharing information with the community is appreciated. Thank you for helping us bring closure to a very eventful school year. Sincerely, David Anthony, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
Cugini a finalist for forensics student of the year Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 29, 2009
Ridge High School senior Nick Cugini and speech and debate coach Scott Baker await the announcement of results this spring at the Texas Forensic Association State Meet, held March 6-8 at the Berry Center. The National Forensic League (NFL), the national honor society for speech and debate, has selected Cypress Ridge High School senior Nick Cugini as one of six finalists for the National Student of the Year Award.
With more than 30,000 graduating seniors in the NFL, the Student of the Year Award is one of the highest accolades a student in the prestigious honor society can achieve. While at the 2009 National Speech and Debate tournament in Birmingham, Ala., on June 14, Nick will interview with a committee of select coaches from across the country to determine the national winner.
Cugini is the reigning Texas Forensic Association (TFA) state champion in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking (his second straight year to win the title), a five-time TFA state finalist, a two-time UIL State Speech Finalist, a three-time NFL national qualifier and is ranked third overall in the nation for speech honor points from competition.
“I’ve always known that Nick is one of the best in the nation,” said Cypress Ridge speech and debate coach Scott Baker. “Now Nick has the chance to show off his abilities on the national stage.”
Cugini will attend Yale University in the fall. He is scheduled to speak at the Cypress Ridge graduation ceremony on Sunday, June 7 at 1 p.m. at the Berry Center (8877 Barker Cypress Road).
Three more students place at Spring Academic Meet Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 29, 2009
Cypress Falls High School seniors Saif Kazim, left, and Sara Meghji placed
third and first, respectively, in the Lincoln Douglas Debate competition in Austin.
A pair of Cypress Falls High School students and a Cypress Woods High School student placed in the top three at the UIL Spring Academic Meet this weekend in Austin.
Cypress Falls seniors Sara Meghji and Saif Kazim placed first and third, respectively, in the Lincoln Douglas Debate competition. Meghji and Kazim both advanced to the semifinal round, where they were forced to debate one another. Judges gave Meghji the win by a 2-1 vote, after which she went on to defeat a student from Clear Lake High School in the final round.
“I feel like Saif and Sara are both state champions. I am so proud of both of them,” said Debbie Waddell, Cypress Falls speech and debate coach. “They work well together and always support each other. Having two students advance to the state tournament is an honor and having them both place is quite an achievement.”
Meghji and Kazim will debate again this summer at the 2009 National Speech and Debate Tournament in Birmingham, Ala.
Cypress Woods junior Sophia Nguyen placed second in the Literary Criticism competition in her second year to advance to state in the event. She missed placing first by only one point on what Literary Criticism coach Traci Underwood called “an extremely challenging test.”
“Sophia is an outstanding student who has been a joy for me to work with on this event the past three years,” Underwood said. “If I know Sophia, this near-miss will only inspire her to work harder next year to bring home the state championship.”
Father and Son Graduate Together at LSC-CyFair Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 29, 2009
Among the 254 Lone Star College-CyFair students graduating this May were Robert Edwards and his father, Clif Edwards, who both earned GIS Analyst Certificates through the Geographic Information System (GIS) Technology program.
GIS is a software used to view and analyze spatial data, including data collected using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) technology and hardware. LSC–CyFair’s GIS Program prepares graduates for wide-ranging career possibilities as entry-level technicians to data analysts and project managers in diverse fields of GIS application.
Robert’s interest in maps led him to focus on GIS at LSC-CyFair because it was something that he was good at and that made sense to him. Clif, who was familiar with maps from his time in the military and working in the airline industry, said he enrolled in the GIS program for fun.
They were in the same program, but not in the same classes at the same time. And while Clif had started a semester behind his son, he was driven to finish the program at the same time. And he did, because, according to his son, he’s an overachiever.
“I had to write an essay on the hardest working person I know and it was my dad,” said Robert. “He was working 60 hours a week, taking care of two houses and going to school full-time … he never ceases to amaze me.”
Clif gives credit to Robert, too, who would tutor his dad despite their friendly competition for grades. “I was working full-time and he would assist me,” said Clif. “At the same time, it reinforced and solidified what he knew because once you learn something and teach it to someone else, you know it.”
Robert also knows he wants GIS to be his career. He is currently working at Ensoco (the fifth student to be hired from the LSC-CyFair program) turning old hand-drawn maps into digital maps. In addition, he had the opportunity to gain hands-on field work experience at an archeological dig site while a participant in the 2008 LSC-CyFair Study Abroad Program to Italy.
“So my aspiration is to finish my associate’s degree at LSC-CyFair, get my bachelor’s degree and hope to find employment with a company abroad,” Robert said. “I like travel, I like mapping, sign me up.” On the other hand, Clif said while working at the airlines, he wanted to ease into retirement. When plans changed and he took early retirement, he began looking for something in GIS.
The Edwards say workforce certificate programs like GIS are good for non-traditional students, those who want to improve their skills or to get a job. But they also say students should take the time to earn the associate’s degree as well. Requirements may have changed if too much time has passed and having that paper not only shows they have a specialty in something, but “degrees are door openers” down the road.
Both father and son are grateful for their community college experience at LSC-CyFair and the various opportunities available.
Robert appreciates not only receiving a study abroad scholarship, but being a recipient of a GIS scholarship thanks to a donation to LSC-CyFair from Texas Gulf Coast Chapter of Geospatial Information Technology Association (GITA.)
Clif enjoys the variety of classes and social activities for adults, age 50 and older, offered through the Academy for Lifelong Learning.
“You can come to LSC-CyFair to get an education and still have a life,” said Clif. And for Robert, getting that education and graduating with his father was cool, even though at commencement May 9, his father walked first as grads were called across in alphabetical order.
For information on the LSC-CyFair GIS program, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/GIS. For information on the available scholarships, contact Michael Konvicka, GIS associate professor, at Michael.R.Konvicka@lonestar.edu or 281-290-3906. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Springs sprinter advances to state meet Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 28, 2009
Cypress Springs High School senior sprinter Kimberlyn Duncan will advance to the Class 5A State Track and Field Championships on June 6 in Austin, after winning the 200-meter dash event at the Region II meet in Waco on May 23.
Duncan won the race with a meet-record time of 23.46 seconds. A Louisiana State University commitment, she also advanced to state as a sophomore as a member of Cypress Springs’ 400- and 800-meter relay teams.
Three other CFISD athletes placed in the top three at the regional meet, narrowly missing a trip to the state championships:
• Cypress Springs senior Imani Spivey placed third in the boys’ 300-meter hurdles with a time of 37.30; • Cypress Creek freshman Leslie Schilsky placed third in the girls’ 800-meter run with a time of 2:21.57; • Cypress Ridge senior Peyton Vickers placed third in the boys’ triple jump.
Message from the Superintendent Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 28, 2009
Dear Key Communicator:
As the 81st Session of the Texas Legislature is nearing closure, legislation for the new accountability system is in its final stages. The accountability system determines how we test students, rate schools, and rate districts. I am a supporter of accountability and there are many positive aspects of the new system. However, one proposed change will require an increase in the number of high stakes tests our students will take. Lawmakers know the sentiment of parents and community members is that schools spend too much time preparing for and giving state-mandated tests and that the state is much too reliant on one test (TAKS) to determine a school's and district's rating. In response, last session, the Legislature passed a law eliminating the TAKS test in high school and replacing it with End-of-Course (EOC) exams. Current Law Currently, high school students take two TAKS tests in 9th grade and four TAKS tests in 10th and 11th grades for a total of 10 tests. In addition to meeting the district's passing standards, high school students must pass the 11th grade TAKS tests to qualify for graduation. Under the bill passed last session, students will take a total of 12 EOC exams that will count 15% towards their course grade. Proposed Law The Senate's version of the bill currently being considered in Austin would greatly expand the number of state-mandated tests needed to graduate. The proposed change would double the number of tests students are required to pass to graduate (8 exams compared to the current 4). Furthermore, since the tests will be in the form of End-of-Course exams, some students would have to pass tests beginning as early as 7th grade to qualify for high school graduation. By contrast, the House of Representatives' version of the bill only requires passage of the 11th grade EOC exams in order for a student to graduate. In doing so, the House's version maintains local control over graduation requirements while continuing to provide accountability at the state level. If you would like to have an impact on this legislation, you should contact the members of the Conference Committee and express your thoughts on the matter. I have included a list of the names below with contact information. The Conference Committee members will begin work on the final version, and will conclude their efforts within the week.
Sincerely, David Anthony, Ed.D.
Bang, Sampson students place first at DI Global Finals Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 28, 2009
Two CFISD teams placed first and two others finished in the top 20 of their respective events at the Destination ImagiNation (DI) Global Finals in Knoxville, Tenn., May 20-23.
Competing against the most talented competitors from around the world, the DI Dynamites from Bang Elementary School placed first in the Elementary Level of Operation Cooperation, while the Sampson Superstars from Sampson Elementary School placed first in the Elementary Level of Private DI.
The DI Dynamites’ team members are James Gutierrez, third grade; Ali Zaidi, third grade; Kevin Turner, fourth grade; Kaitlyn Zera, fourth grade; Mohammad Zaidi, fifth grade; and Mustafa Khan, fifth grade. The team managers are Kathryn and Frank Gutierrez and the school sponsor is Kristine Ashmead.
The Sampson Superstars’ team members are fifth-grade students Sharon Zhou, Will Hudson, Alex Duensing, Kate Laymon, Haley Brusen, Yash Chulki and Christian Sullivan. The team managers are Angela Duensing and Laurie Hudson and the school sponsor is Carolyn Young.
The Billion Bolts of Brilliance from Hamilton Elementary School placed 16th in the world in the Elementary Level of Instinct Messaging. The team members are fifth-grade students Ryan Martin, Ryan Lancaster, Ben Miller, Pooja Shankar, Esha Dewan, Hannah Phillips and Caleb Longan. The team managers are John and Judy Martin and Gillian Miller and the school sponsor is Betty Collette.
The Squirrels from Hamilton Middle School placed 19th in the world in the Middle School Level of Operation Cooperation. The team members are seventh-grade students Erin Curby, Patrick Martin, Mitch Shockley, Ross Tuzin and Kirsten Williamson. The team managers are Angie Williamson and Bill Tuzin and the school sponsor is Amanda Herber.
NAM launches 2009 Back-to-School Drive Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 28, 2009
Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) is seeking cash donations to provide more than 2,000 children in need with basic school supplies and clothing to help prepare them for school in the fall. “The annual Back-to-School Drive makes a difference in the lives of area children in need,” said NAM President and CEO Carole Little. “And this year especially, there is no shortage of need for this project.” NAM needs $72,500 to pay for the project and is seeking donations from individuals, service organizations and area businesses. Of the four school districts served by NAM, more than 80 percent of Aldine Independent School District students, over 65 percent of Spring ISD students, 35 percent of Cy-Fair and 31 percent of Klein ISD students are economically disadvantaged, according to Texas Education Agency reports. Educators say they can see the damaging impact low self esteem has on youngsters and their ability to succeed. For young people to start this school year feeling good about themselves and ready to learn, they need the required school supplies and clothing. Supplies and clothing vouchers will be distributed to pre-screened families August 15. Last year, NAM helped more than 2,200 students from the Spring, Klein, Aldine and Cy-Fair school districts. NAM is seeking cash donations rather than contributions of clothing or supplies, Little said. Cash donations enable NAM to buy items pre-packaged by grade level, in bulk and at a discount so the dollars help more children. A $25 gift will provide school supplies for one student. A $35 gift will provide clothing and shoes for one student and a $55 gift will provide supplies, clothing and shoes for one student. Donations can be made online through the virtual Back-to-School Drive at namonline.org/bts or they may be sent to NAM, 15555 Kuykendahl Road, Houston, TX 77090. Donations also can be made by telephone via credit card by calling 281-885-4605. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com. NAM is a nonprofit, community-based social service agency that is supported by 47 congregations, 18 Service Partner organizations and more than 140 businesses Community Partners.
South Texas Cup State Soccer Champions Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 27, 2009
Congratulations to U11 D2 Bear Creek Lightning on winning the South Texas Cup State Championship held on May 23rd - May 24th at George Bush Park. Prior to this the team competed in South Texas Cup Eastern District playoffs against teams from Sugarland, Klein and Kingwood where they were the Finalist with a 2-1-0 record. The top two teams in the Eastern district went on to compete against the top two Western district teams from San Antonio and Corpus Christi. Lightning finished with a 3-0-0 record.
Team members include front row from left, Christian Vasquez, Adrian Iramategui, and Adam Germenis; middle row, Luis Vargas, Trevor Latta, Javier Adame, and Mark Reno. Back row, coach Moses Vasquez, Kevin Argueta, Saul Pena, Hector Martinez, Christopher Muniz, and coach Mike Latta. Not pictured Daniel Chamorro.
Houston's Center Stage Theater Announces Tomball Theater Camps Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 27, 2009
Houston’s Center Stage Theater has announced three summer theater camps from beginners to advanced and they will be held in Tomball at the Salem Community Center beginning Monday, June 8 and running though Wednesday, July 15. These camps will offer different styles for each student and will be directed and staffed by knowledgeable and professional instructors who love to work with kids and teens. Each camp will offer a different skill level for the various age groups. Each camp curriculum is structured to meet the interests of the student’s strength’s and weaknesses, with the goal of making them a better stage performer. Depending on the class, subjects will include audition skills, acting, voice, singing and dancing. ‘Encore’ Theater Camp, starting June 8, will concentrate on drama only. ‘Ovation’ Theater Camp, starting June 22 , will provide emphasis on musical theater and will include singing, dancing and acting. ‘Encore’ and ‘Ovation are weekdays from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. for two weeks and target those ages 8-16 years old. For all those beginners out there, the ‘Bravo’ Camp are weekdays from 9 a.m. – Noon, July 7-15 and are for children 6-10 years old. These camps are designed for the student to have fun and learn about theater while doing what they love to do with others who have a similar passion for theater. Deadlines for camp registration are approaching fast, and you can register on-line and obtain further details by visiting HoustonsCenterStage.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Family to Family Network Family Friends Program Seeks New Volunteers
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted May 27, 2009
Family to Family Network is an organization dedicated to helping families who have a child with disabilities by providing information, training, referrals and support. We help provide the family much needed support with our Family Friends Volunteer Program. If you have ever thought about “giving back” to the community in a very personal way, Family Friends needs you! Family Friends matches caring adult volunteers to become a treasured friend to a Child who has disabilities and their family. The volunteer visits the Child in the home once a week to play games, read a book and spend time with the child just having fun! We guarantee you lots of smiles as you provide much needed love and support to the family!
Whether you are looking to fill a hole in your life, just want to help others, or have been looking for a volunteer role where you can really make a difference, Family Friends is for you!
Call now for our next training! This fun, interactive training will enrich you with knowledge with the knowledge to help a family as you make new friends with other volunteers.
For more information, please all Joanie or Carolyn at 713-466-6304 or go to familytofamilynetwork.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Houston Family Arts Center announces the opening of "Come Blow Your Horn" Cy-Fair, Cypress, Texas News Posted May 26, 2009
The Houston Family Arts Center (HFAC) presents Neil Simon's lighthearted and hilarious comedy, "Come Blow Your Horn," a play about two bachelor brothers sharing an apartment in New York City. Performed by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. and directed by Lisa Garza, "Come Blow Your Horn" opens for a three-week limited engagement June 5, 2009, at The Texas Repertory Theatre, 14243 Stuebner Airline Road in Spring, TX. Tickets are affordably priced at $12-$16 and are now on sale for all performances. "Come Blow Your Horn" is Neil Simon’s first play, which premiered on Broadway in 1961. Frustrated with living at home with his older, Jewish parents, young Buddy Baker packs his bags and arrives unannounced at the luxurious Manhattan apartment of his older brother, Alan, a fast-living, girl-chasing bachelor who never allows his duties at his father's waxed fruit factory to interfere with his fun. Alan is initially pleased at his brother's show of independence, but Buddy is such an apt pupil that he soon surpasses the excesses of his older brother! Watching his brother's selfish immaturity as it mirrors his own, Alan suddenly realizes the futility of his life and is jolted into maturity. Show tickets are just $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $12 for students. Dinner + show tickets are $28 for adults, $26 for seniors, and $24 for students. For tickets and additional information call 281-685-6374 or select your seats online at houstonfac.com. Group prices are available for groups of more than 10. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Creek student wins first at Spring Academic Meet Cy-Fair, Cypress, Texas News Posted May 26, 2009
Cypress Creek High School sophomore Christine Nguyen won first place in the Newswriting competition at the UIL Spring Academic Meet, held May 25 in Austin.
Nguyen competed against the top 12 5A newswriters from around the state, which included three winners from each region. The writers received a story prompt that provided background information and quotes from various sources and used it to draft a news article within 45 minutes.
A judging panel made up of journalism teachers from around the state evaluated whether the students determined the most timely information, wrote a lead that would grab readers’ attention, wove quotes with the background information and developed the story in a logical way.
To reach state, Nguyen placed third at the district competition at Cypress Ridge High School and third at the regional competition at Baylor University.
“The entire newspaper staff and I are incredibly proud of Christine,” Cypress Creek journalism teacher Jen Sansbury said. “In her first year on staff, she has proven herself as a newswriting natural. She has been our go-to person whenever news breaks on campus, such as the construction-related flooding in the fall and the lightning strike last month.”
The American Society of Newspaper Editors recently featured Nguyen’s story about Cypress Creek’s transformer being struck by lightning on its weekly national edition of the best stories from online high school newspapers it hosts at my.hsj.org.
Southeast Texas Homeschool Movement Growing Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 26, 2009
When the news media investigates homeschooling, they invariably find the “troubling” fact that homeschooling is still growing dramatically, even in these tough economic times, and even in the face of concerted opposition by teachers union and the education establishment. For example, a recent Houston Chronicle article lead with: “More budget-conscious Houston families appear to be contemplating home schooling as an alternative to pricey private school tuition.” (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/moms/6393952.html) Homeschooling remains the fastest growing educational choice here in the Southeast Texas and Gulf Coast area, a fact that has made the 23rd Annual Gulf Coast Homeschool Convention the hottest ticket in town. Thousands of parents in the Houston area gather for the conference at the Reliant Center on June 5th and 6th to learn more about homeschooling, and to talk to successful homeschool parents. With workshops ranging from working with toddlers to homeschool high school, the conference is a forum of continuing professional education for these home educators. The conference will host 37 workshops, along with over 100 exhibitors, allowing parents to have many educational choices for their students. Featuring a teen program, as well as a children’s program, this conference offers activities for everyone, including Homeschool Nights at the Astros Games over the weekend. More information on the 23rd Annual Gulf Coast Homeschool Conference can be found atSETHSA.org/conferences.htm
Auditions This Weekend for Performance Training Intensive 2009 Summer 2009 Performance Training Intensive Cy-Fair, Cypress, Texas News Posted May 26, 2009
Auditions May 30 Training Intensive July 20 - 31 Showcase August 2 This is no ordinary “drama camp”! The Texas Repertory Theatre Co., NW Houston’s critically-acclaimed professional theatre, invites serious students of the theatre ages 13-19 to join Master Teachers from around the country for an intensive two-week boot camp of acting, stage combat, vocal techniques and professional guidance that is guaranteed to explode their growth as a performer! Learn approaches and techniques of professional theatre artists, and then showcase them on The Texas Repertory Theatre Co. stage! Grow in experience working with seasoned professionals! Develop skills and techniques that get a director’s attention! Become the performer that you know you can be! Limited Placement by Audition Only – Call 281-583-7573 for an Audition Time Slot. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com. Tuition: $800
Texas Children’s Hospital Building Largest Suburban Children’s Hospital Cy-Fair, Cypress, Texas News Posted May 22, 2009
Texas Children’s Hospital will soon be celebrating an important construction milestone of its new West Campus, the first community children’s hospital to be built in the greater Houston area. When completed, the new facility will be among the nation’s largest suburban pediatric hospitals and will serve the country’s fastest growing child populations, the area from Sugar Land to Bryan-College Station. The area’s pediatric population is projected to grow by 51%, reaching 400,000 within five years of the hospital’s opening.
Located on 55 acres at the intersection of Interstate 10 and Barker Cypress, Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus is designed to incorporate the best practices in pediatric treatment environments and to provide the special accommodations that families need in a children’s medical facility. Staffed and equipped exclusively to treat patients from birth to 18 years of age, Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus will provide both outpatient and inpatient services, and offer the only dedicated pediatric emergency center in greater West Houston.
“We are excited to build West Campus,” said Michelle Riley-Brown, assistant vice president, Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus. “This medical campus will provide an innovative healing environment for the growing population of children in the West Houston community.”
West Campus will incorporate interior and exterior evidence-based design elements that promote healing such as natural light, views of water and nature, child life play areas, and outdoor park-like settings for patient and family use. The medical campus will be built in phases, totaling 534,000 square feet. The outpatient clinic building and the inpatient facility are scheduled to open in 2010. For more information, visit www.westcampus.texaschildrens.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Falls Science Olympiad team wraps season at nationals Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 22, 2009
The Cypress Falls High School Science Olympiad team completed its competition season at the 2009 National Science Olympiad, held May 15-16 at Augusta State University in Georgia.
Competing against the top programs in the nation, Cypress Falls ranked 39th overall out of 60 teams in Division C and achieved several personal accomplishments:
• Cathy Phan, Rachel Lewis and Nhan Tran placed 11th in Experimental Design; • Rohit Kumar and Rohit Raghu placed 13th in Trajectory; • John Fortner and Norman Ren placed 19th in Herpetology; and • John Fortner and Norman Ren placed 20th in Fossils.
The Cypress Falls Science Olympiad team also qualified for nationals in 2004, 2005 and 2006.
“I could not be more pleased with the effort my team put in during the last few weeks before nationals,” said Jennifer Wuellner, Cypress Falls Science Olympiad coach. “We had only three weeks to get ready after the state contest. During those three weeks, the TAKS test was administered, we had a flood day, the swine flu scare came and AP tests were administered. Despite all of these challenges, our team somehow managed to find time to put in some additional practice. I’m proud of how far this team has come this year.”
Wafford wins Vocal Music Teacher of the Year award Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 22, 2009
The Houston Choral Society (HCS) and ConocoPhillips honored Langham Creek High School choir director Catherine Wafford with the 2009 Vocal Music Teacher of the Year award.
The first annual award recognizes the excellent work of area vocal music teachers. The HCS Board of Directors solicited nominations from students and colleagues before presenting Wafford with a plaque and $500 check in a brief ceremony at the start of the HCS spring concert on April 25 at The Foundry United Methodist Church.
During her 10 years at Langham Creek, Wafford’s choirs have won numerous festival awards and received Superior ratings at UIL concerts and sightreading contests, and have been selected as a Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) honor choir four times.
“Ms. Wafford has demonstrated an ability to attract students to the music program and develop them into true musicians,” said HCS Board Member Pat Schadle. “She has created a reputation for her high school’s choir program that is legendary among choral directors in Texas and beyond. She understands young people, meets them where they live and gives them what they need. She has high expectations and demands excellence.”
Kirk ES students win Name That Book contest Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 21, 2009
For the second consecutive year, a team of students from Kirk Elementary School won the Name That Book district contest, held Wednesday at the Berry Center.
The mission of the Name That Book Program is to foster lifelong reading by all third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students. The students were provided with a list of 100 books and encouraged to read as many as possible prior to the district event. The contest challenges the students’ knowledge of the books.
In the 27-team district competition, Kirk accumulated the most points after 10 rounds. The students faced a series of questions in the vein of Jeopardy! from Roy Garcia, associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction and school administration, that gave clues about different books, and were asked to “name that book.”
Kirk’s winning team members are Pooja Agrawal, Timothy Angeles, Tiffany Pham Nguyen, Kevin Sheard, Michelle Truong, Jamie Won and Julianna White.
“I am proud of all Name That Book participants and appreciate the hard work of the campus librarians, family and friends who have supported them throughout the process,” said Jessica Hughes, CFISD coordinator of library and media services. “For Kirk's team to win the district contest, they mastered not only the content of 100 excellent titles, but remembered specific details—even the exact titles.”
Lowering High Blood Pressure is One Way to Reduce Your Risk for Heart Disease Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 21, 2009
Because high blood pressure doesn’t cause any physical symptoms, patients are often unaware of their risks. According to the National, Heart Lung and Blood Institute, 1 in 3 adults in the United States have high blood pressure. Untreated high blood pressure can cause damage to your body’s organs. High blood pressure can lead to coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems. Addressing the condition is important, and there are simple tips that you can use to lower their blood pressure. A few lifestyle changes may reduce blood pressure and, in the long run, these changes may help prevent heart disease. If these changes do not reduce blood pressure, medication may have to be introduced as part of a treatment. Here are some tips: · Don’t smoke cigarettes or use any tobacco products. · Eat a healthy diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables and is low in fat. · Lose weight, if you’re overweight. · Exercise regularly. · Limit your sodium, alcohol and caffeine intake. · Try relaxation techniques. Attend a free preventive heart screening at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital on Saturday, June 13 in the hospital’s Professional Building Classrooms located at 11302 Fallbrook Drive to learn more about your blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease. The screening will provide baseline heart-screening services that supply you with the information you need to possibly prevent heart disease and related problems. This heart-healthy event includes total blood cholesterol, blood pressure, weight, body mass index, and a heart disease risk factor analysis. This screening is free, but appointments are required. Call 1-800-681-2733 today to register. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Premier Vintage Automobiles From Around the World Showcased Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 21, 2009
Vintage icons, rare and exotic hand-built sports cars, Hot Rods and full-out racing machines, take the floor of Reliant Stadium on Sunday, June 14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the Sixth Annual Classy Chassis™ Concours d’Elegance benefiting Shriners Hospitals for Children™ - Houston. This world-class automotive event will feature more than 100 unique and rare classics, many of which are from private collections around the world. The 2009 Classy Chassis™ Concours d’Elegance will feature two marques – Ferrari and Packard. Classy Chassis™ Concours d’Elegance is honored again to have Jim Simpson from Whidbey Island, Washington serve as chief judge of the concours event, leading a team of experts in the selection of class and special award winners. Cars will be judged according to French Concours standards (“judging light”) and the all important, coveted “Best in Show” award will be given out at day’s end along with first, second and third places in each class, with a number of additional special awards. Car enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy Classy Chassis™ Concours d’Elegance – from live music to children’s activities, the event provides entertainment for the entire family. And, returning this year, and for a donation to Shriners, guests will have the opportunity to ride in a Ferrari, Lamborghini or one of many available exotics. This year’s commemorative artwork will again be designed by renowned automotive artist Bill Neale and will be displayed and auctioned at the private preview and reception held the evening prior to the show at Reliant Stadium. Among the many vintage vehicles on display this year include 1927 Bentley Speed Six Fixed Head Coupe, 1930 Isotta Fraschini 8A Flying Star Roadster, 1930 Packard 734 Speedster Runabout, 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Corsa Spyder, 1952 Ferrari 212/225 Barchetta,1966 Chaparral 2D, 1964 Shelby Cobra and a 2004 Ferrari Enzo. Lead sponsors of the 2009 Classy Chassis™ Concours d’Elegance include Clear Channel Outdoor, Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land, and Reliant Park. Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $7 for children ages 6 through 12, and children age five and under are free. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Ticketmaster or at the gate on the day of the event. Parking at Reliant Park is $8 per vehicle. Guests purchasing a raffle ticket have the opportunity to win a 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300. For additional information about Classy Chassis™ Concours d’Elegance including exhibitor, sponsor and vendor information, visit classychassis.org.
Schools plan Memorial Day activities Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 21, 2009
In honor of those who have served to protect our freedom, Air Force Junior ROTC cadets in CFISD will participate in Memorial Day activities on Monday, May 25.
AFJROTC cadets at Jersey Village High School will march in the Memorial Day Parade, scheduled for 2 p.m. at Bear Creek Pioneers Park (3535 War Memorial Dr.), near the Harris County War Memorial next to the Eldridge Parkway entrance.
Jersey Village AFJROTC Unit TX-20017 is coordinated by Major Dennis Martinez and Technical Sergeant Joseph Campbell.
The Cypress Ridge High School Cadet Chorale will perform before a crowd of 10,000 at 9:30 a.m. at the Memorial Day service at Veterans National Cemetery (10410 Veterans Memorial Dr.). The service, honoring deceased United States servicemen and women, is free and open to the public.
Cypress Ridge senior Cadet Major Marla Esparza is the commander of the 25-member chorale, while Lt. Col. Steven Rakel is the Cadet Chorale Director and M.Sgt. Merel Mills is the AFJROTC coordinator.
“As our community honors veterans on Memorial Day, CFISD cadets are in the forefront year after year, displaying the steely discipline and obvious pride their instructors have instilled in them,” said Judy Reidy, AFJROTC district coordinator. “I salute our cadets, their families and the extremely dedicated officers who direct our district’s outstanding units. My hope is that some day all of our high schools will offer this character-building program, which addresses the whole student in an engaging, positive and lifelong way.”
Ever Thought About a New Career in Teaching? Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 20, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair will host an information session on two teaching programs Tuesday, June 2 on the Barker Cypress campus. The session will start at 5 p.m. and will cover information on the Associate of Arts in Teaching/Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (AAT/BAIS) joint enrollment program, in which participants can earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching degree and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston-Downtown, while taking all classes on the LSC-CyFair campus. Then at 6 p.m., those who have a bachelor’s degree will learn how to enter the teaching profession through the Alternative Certification Program. Call 281-290-3957 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/tcp for information. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Baseball, softball teams complete seasons Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 20, 2009
The Cy-Fair High School softball team and Cy-Fair and Cypress Woods baseball teams finished their seasons on Tuesday in the playoffs.
The Cy-Fair softball team lost its one-game regional quarterfinal playoff to Spring High School, 4-3. The Lady Bobcats wrapped up their season as the third-place team in District 15-5A and Region II quarterfinalists.
The Cy-Fair baseball team was defeated by Lufkin High School, 5-2, in its one-game area playoff meeting on Tuesday. The Bobcats completed their season as District 15-5A champions and Region II area finalists.
The Cypress Woods baseball team fell to The Woodlands College Park, 4-3, in a one-game area playoff on Tuesday. The Wildcats brought their season to a close as district runners-up and Region II area finalists.
Don’t Miss the Magic of “Aladdin” June 8-20 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 20, 2009
Start the summer with fun for all ages at “Aladdin” on stage June 8 through June 20 at Lone Star College-CyFair. Aladdin and his friends, including the dancing monkey, Toodle-deToos, have an eye for adventure in this new version of a classic children’s tale that is funny, fast-paced and based on William Glennon’s “Arabian Nights.” There are spells, potions, and reversals of fortune as Aladdin discovers the magic of the lamp and his love for the Princess – and finally outwits the crafty Zorah, the mysterious stranger from the East. Among the cast members are Cassie Champagne, Tadeo Diaz, Katie Eysler, Stewart Gaiten as Zorah, Alex Gates as Darkana, Melanie Holloway, Chase Kinsella as Aladdin, Juan Lerma, Genevieve Simmons as Aladdin’s Mother, Jenna Simmons as Princess, and Kenton Schwenke, who are LSC-CyFair students, Nash Kinsella, Pierce Kinsella and Reece Kinsella, who are home-schooled and Gary Kreitz, president of Houston’s Center Stage Theatre. LSC-CyFair’s Ron Jones directs the summer performances set at 10 a.m. Mondays through Fridays and at noon Saturdays in the Main Stage Theatre located in the Center for the Arts on the Barker Cypress campus. Mark your calendar for July 17 through July 26 for “High School Musical 2” a co-production with Houston’s Center Stage Theater. For reservations, tickets and information on “Aladdin” call 281-290-5201 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/boxoffice. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Free summer meals available for students Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 20, 2009
The Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Food Service Department will offer free meals for children ages 18 and younger as part of its first Summer Food Service Program.
No enrollment or registration is required to participate in the federally funded program. Students can simply show up Monday-Friday from 8 to 9 a.m. for breakfast and 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch at the elementary schools listed below to receive their meals at no charge. Meals will not be offered on Friday, July 3.
June 15 – July 31 • Francone – 11250 Perry Road, Houston • Danish – 11850 Fallbrook Dr., Houston • Duryea – 20150 Arbor Creek Dr., Katy • Holbrook – 6402 Langfield Road, Houston • Lee – 12900 West Little York Road, Houston • McFee – 19315 Plantation Cove Lane, Katy • Metcalf – 6100 Queenston Blvd., Houston • Walker – 6425 Settlers Village Dr., Katy
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Supports American Heart Association's Go Red Efforts Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 19, 2009
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital recently sponsored the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women Luncheon for the Northwest Harris County and Montgomery County divisions. The annual event was held May 15 at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott. Go Red for Women is the American Heart Association's national call for women to take charge of their health and live stronger, healthier lives. The event is committed to raising awareness of women's cardiac health in the community and the money raised from the event will be used to fund life-saving research and programs in the fight against heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is not just for men. About one woman dies every minute from cardiovascular disease and 64 percent of women who die suddenly of heart disease did not have any previous symptoms. Heart attack symptoms displayed by men and women are considerably different. When a woman has a heart attack she may experience nausea, overwhelming fatigue and dizziness. Her warning signs of an impending heart attack could include shortness of breath, vomiting, and back or jaw pain. Because these symptoms are often chalked up to stress, women have reported that they have a harder time getting their doctors to recognize these early warning signs. Women also wait longer before seeking medical care. With a heart attack, minutes matter. Seeking help sooner and being proactive about your care can help save heart muscle. For more information on women's health including heart disease, visit CyFairHospital.com/WomensHealth.
Plans for Sunshine Kids Celebrity Gala and Golf Classic Announced Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 19, 2009
Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors announces plans for the 17th Annual Craig Biggio Sunshine Kids Celebrity Gala and Golf Classic. The Craig Biggio Sunshine Kids Celebrity Gala kicks things off at the Hilton Americas Hotel on Friday, June 5 at 6:30 p.m. The Golf Classic follows on Monday, June 8 at 9 a.m. at the Wildcat Golf Club. Since 1992, Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors has actively supported The Sunshine Kids through numerous fundraising efforts sponsored by the firm's own nonprofit foundation. For over 10 years, this foundation has partnered with Craig Biggio as the founding sponsor for the Craig Biggio Sunshine Kids Celebrity Gala and Golf Classic. The Sunshine Kids Foundation provides positive group activities and emotional support for young cancer patients. "Each year more people become involved, and each year we raise more money for the Kids," said Biggio. "In all our personal and professional accomplishments, we have enjoyed no greater privilege than to share some time with The Sunshine Kids. In sports coverage, commentators are always using phrases like courage and heart. The Kids show us the real meaning of these terms." SPONSORS include: Founding Sponsor: Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors Presenting Sponsor: Audi Diamond Sponsor: NPC Gold Sponsor: AADE American Association of Drilling Engineers Platinum Sponsor: First American Title Insurance Company Silver Sponsor: Reliant Energy Organizations and individuals interested in sponsorships and supporting this cause may e-mail awoodroof@garygreene.com. For more information, visit GaryGreeneSunshine.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Bridgeland and Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center hosts Blood Drive Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 19, 2009
The Bridgeland community and the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center are partnering to host a blood drive from 1-5 p.m. Sunday, June 28. 's bloodmobile will be parked at Bridgeland's Welcome Center, 16919 North Bridgeland Lake Parkway, to take donations. People can donate every three months and should expect the entire donation process from registration to post-donation refreshments to take about an hour. Individuals who are at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good health can donate. Those who are age 16, weigh at least 122 pounds, are in good health and have their parents' consent also can participate. Donors should drink plenty of fluids and try to eat iron-rich foods (red meat, iron-fortified cereal or green, leafy vegetables) one to two hours before donating.
Blood donations are truly life-sustaining gifts. According to the center, blood donations can help a variety of individuals trauma victims, surgery patients, premature babies, cancer patients and others, including those with anemia.
To schedule your donation, visit giveblood.org or call 1-888-482-5663. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Final Weekend for comedy hit The Miss Firecracker Contest Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 19, 2009
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co., NW Houston's own critically-acclaimed professional theatre, ends its 2008-2009 Season this weekend with a heartwarming comedy by the Pulitzer-prize winning Southern author Beth Henley, The Miss Firecracker Contest. Best known for her play Crimes of the Heart, for which she won the Pulitzer Prize, Beth Henley is a product of the theatre program at Dallas' Southern Methodist University, where she has endowed a program for emerging playwrights. The Miss Firecracker Contest will run Thursday to Sunday through May 24.
The Miss Firecracker Contest is the hilarious and heartfelt account of one woman's quest for acceptability in a small southern town -- a quest that involves tap-dancing, self-improvement, roman candles, soul searching, and a hoop skirt that won't behave. When Carnelle Scott (known locally as Miss Hot Tamale) enters the local beauty pageant, poignant eccentricity and outright hilarity ensue. Although the play has been described as a torrential downpour of humor by The New York Times, at the heart of this crowd-pleasing comic play is the inspirational story of a family's struggle to accept themselves and each other, and the rather unconventional ways in which they go about it.
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co. is located at 14243 Stuebner Airline Rd. in the new Northwoods Plaza. Performances are Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and 3 p.m. on Sunday afternoons. Tickets are $25-$45 and can be purchased by calling the Texas Rep box office at 281-583-7573. For more information, log onto texreptheatre.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Local Young Artists Shine at Symphony North of Houston Concert Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 18, 2009
Symphony North of Houston presents this season's Young Artist Concerto Competition winners with a free concert on Sunday, June 28 at 4 p.m. at Northwood's Presbyterian Church.
First place winner, pianist, Esther Liao will perform Mendelssohn's Piano Concerto No.1. Second place winner, Elizabeth Zhang, will perform the first movement of Piano Concerto No 2. in Bb Major by Beethoven. The concert will also feature the Young Person's Guide to Orchestra by Benjamin Britten
Liao will be a seventh grader at T.H. Rogers Middle School in their Vanguard Program. She has been playing piano since the age of four and has performed with both the Houston and Fort Bend Symphonies. Zhang will be a sophomore at Bellaire High School and has been playing the piano for more than ten years. She has won various regional competitions including the Houston Young Artists and Texas Young Pianist Competitions.
The Young Artists Concerto Competition provides young musicians with the experience of auditioning and performing with a live symphony orchestra. Performances of this type allow young musicians to gain confidence in performing and encourage them to continue with their musical education.
Under the direction of conductor Dr. Reynaldo Ochoa, Symphony North of Houston is in its 34th season, presenting quality performances of orchestral music to the residents of North Houston. Visit symphonynorth.org for more information. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Athletes sign letters of intent Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 18, 2009
CFISD senior athletes signed letters of intent on Wednesday to compete for their respective colleges in 2009-2010.
The following athletes signed on Wednesday:
Cypress Woods High School � Michael Hays, Angelina College, baseball; � Connor Hyde, Hendrix College, baseball; � Cody Williams, Alvin College, baseball; � Reynaldo Noel, Concordia University, boys' basketball; � Glenn Etienne, Trinity University, football; � Kelsey Schad, Houston Baptist University, girls' soccer; � Kristina Cordova, East Texas Baptist University, softball; � Danielle Downum, Sterling College, softball; � Brandon Bricarell, Gannon University, swimming; and � Tyler Williamson, University of Texas at San Antonio, track and field.
Cy-Fair High School � Jonathan Kauffman, Ouachita Baptist University, boys' soccer.
Girls soccer players make TASCO teams Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 18, 2009 Six CFISD girls soccer players were named to the 2009 Texas Association of Soccer Coaches (TASCO) All-Region II and All-State teams this week.
The All-State players were all from Cypress Creek High School: Terah Parker, senior forward; Sarah LaLanne, junior midfielder; and Michelle Kloss, junior goalkeeper.
"I was so excited to see my three players get All-State; we have never had anyone from our team make All-State," said Cypress Creek coach Kathy Fling. "I think they were well deserving of this award, and all played a vital role in our playoff experience along with the rest of the team."
All-Region selections were Samantha Brenz, Cy-Fair High School senior forward; Sydney Curry, Cy-Fair junior midfielder; and Ryan Smith, Jersey Village High School senior goalkeeper.
Additionally, Parker, a Pepperdine University commitment, and Cypress Creek senior Amanda Biega were invited to play in the annual TASCO Senior Showcase this weekend.
Welding a Viable Career Path for Mary Anderson Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 18, 2009
In her first semester at Lone Star College-CyFair, Mary Anderson is already at the top of her class as she pursues a certificate in the well-paying, male-dominated field of welding. "If you have the skill and can prove it, I don't see how being a girl would be a problem," said Anderson, who admits welding takes patience. "I have to be in right mood. If I get frustrated, I might as well just call it a day." Mike Boyle, welding adjunct faculty, said Anderson is quick to pick up welding techniques, is consistent and has excellent eye hand coordination. She also scored above 90 on his safety test her first time, which less than half his students do. "There's no reason a female couldn't do well in this field," said Boyle. "It's not particularly strenuous. It's a detail oriented skill and neatness counts." Students in Boyle's class are introduced to technical skills, such as adjusting machines for thickness and heaviness of a gauge, how to strike an arc and to maintain the length of an arc as well as how to weld in four positions: flat, horizontal, vertical and overhead. These techniques help students get a foot in the door to be a welder's helper, he said. A certificate and/or degree from an accredited institution like LSC-CyFair helps students move from basic knowledge for garage projects into advanced courses that lead to jobs in the construction trade. Welders can earn from $15 an hour for entry level work up to $70 to $100,000 as an independent contractor if they are willing to travel and do shift work seven days a week for six months a year, he said. LSC-CyFair offers a certificate program and degree in Welding Technology, as does LSC-north Harris. The certificate program prepares the student for entry-level employment as a structural welder. Courses completed in this program also count toward the associates of applied science degree in welding technology, which is designed to prepare the individual for a career as a welding technician in the fabrication, construction and manufacturing industries. LSC-CyFair also offers a Metal Sculpture Certificate and a Metal Arts Certificate. For information on these welding programs, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Texas Children's Hospital W. Campus Invites Children to Share Their Dreams Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 18, 2009
Area children are invited to share their dreams with Texas Children's Hospital and be part of the Dream Tree. A colorful ribbon representing each child's dream will be displayed on a tree raised to the top of the West Campus in a ceremony celebrating the completion of its first construction milestone. Six children will be selected at random to participate in the Dream Tree ceremony. All qualifying dreams will be displayed on the Texas Children's website. For details and to submit dreams, visit westcampus.texaschildrens.org. Submissions deadline, June 16. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Seeking Stunning Stairways Posted May 15, 2009
Cy-Fair Magazine is seeking stunning stairways in Cy-Fair to feature in the Fall Issue. If you would like to feature your home or would like to suggest a stunning stairway, please contact the editor at editor@cyfairmagazine.com.
TEA approves waivers for missed instructional days Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 14, 2009
On Thursday, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) approved waivers for missed instructional days, which were submitted by CFISD this week in the wake of days missed from flooding and the H1N1 Virus.
Students will not be required to make up the instructional days that were missed due to these events.
The TEA approved two waivers for instructional days missed due to flooding for the following students:
� All students for the district closure on April 28; and � Cypress Creek High School students for four instructional days lost on April 28-30 and May 1.
The TEA approved two waivers for instructional days missed due to the H1N1 Virus for the following students:
� Yeager Elementary School students for three days missed on May 1, 4 and 5 � Horne Elementary School students for two days missed on May 4-5.
LSC-CyFair Student Starts Women�s Soccer Club Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 14, 2009
Soccer was a �family thing� when Courtney Murdoch was a child in Greece and it became a �family thing� again in high school, too. But when she got to Lone Star College-CyFair, that �family thing� was missing - so she decided to start a women�s soccer team. �And I am very happy I did,� she said. �My college year would have been very different without it. I don�t think any of us (on the team) would have made the friends we did without soccer.� Murdoch approached LSC-CyFair faculty Claire Phillips and Michael Fey to be club sponsors because she missed competing in a sport she loves and didn�t think attending a community college meant giving up extracurricular activities. �Starting a new club took a lot of groundwork, but I would have accomplished nothing by myself. These girls made the team and they made it a fabulous experience,� said Murdoch, one of the team captains. Another team leader was Amy Amneris Garcia, who, along with several other players, mentored young soccer players at Kahla Middle School every Monday and Wednesday. �This was a big commitment because a lot of these girls work, too, and right after contributing two hours to practice, they would rush over to Kahla to help out,� said Murdoch. �They gave this time with nothing in return and for that they deserve a lot of praise.� Jorge Davila, aka Coach D, found out about the women�s soccer team when he met Phillips at a college-wide open house at LSC-CyFair he attended with his daughters. �I love soccer. It�s my life. It�s the sport of my country (Peru) and I played soccer all my life since I was six-years old,� said Davila. �Volunteering is fun for me. So I offered my services.� As official team coach next fall, Davila is looking forward to a formal season and of course a championship. He also wants to help the players be successful and earn scholarships. A Prairie View A&M coach has already recruited one player, Destiny Darby. The Women�s Soccer Team finished the informal season with a 3-0-1 record that includes a final 4-0 �championship� game win played against LSC-North Harris, said Phillips. �At the beginning I would have never thought that even competing would be possible,� said Murdoch. �But not only did we compete, we accomplished getting a uniform, equipment, captains, two wonderful sponsors, a coach, best new club of the year award and a playoffs number one trophy.� For information on LSC-CyFair�s Women�s Soccer club and the fall season, contact Phillips at 281-290-3916. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Local Jazzercise customers lost 810.3 pounds during "Jazz It Off" promotion Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 14, 2009
Jazzercise, the world�s leading dance fitness program, recently completed �Jazz it Off 2009.� Jazzercise instructors from around the world aided and rewarded their customers for reaching 2009 weight loss goals. �Jazz it Off� participants at Bear Creek Copperfield and Northwest Jazzercise lost a cumulative 810.3 pounds.
From Feb. 1 through April 25, individuals and teams worked toward their weight loss goals. In addition to taking Jazzercise classes that combine elements of jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, cardio box movements and more, �Jazz It Off� participants took part in weekly weigh-ins and body composition testing. Prizes were awarded to those who showed the largest percentage of weight loss weekly as well as at the end of the promotion.
Jazzercise offers a fusion of jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, and cardio box movements, has positively affected millions of people worldwide. Benefits include increased cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility, as well as an overall "feel good" factor. Additional Jazzercise programs include Junior Jazzercise, Jazzercise Lite and Personal Touch. For more information, contact Mary Wadsworth at 281-855-3488. Pleae mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Shows Its Appreciation During National Emergency Medical Services Week Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 14, 2009
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital is celebrating National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week from May 17 to 23 to recognize the men and women who commit their lives to providing critical, life-saving services and compassionate care to our patients and community. Hospitals across the country have been celebrating National EMS Week since 1974. The community is invited to recognize and thank the dedicated first responders who provide quality care throughout the year. �The emergency department is the backbone of our hospital that provides advanced technology and rapid reactions in urgent situations. It is a vital part of our community,� says Michelle Pate, nurse manager of the Emergency Department at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital. �Residents rely on the EMS system and its trained professionals, who have incredible devotion to their jobs and community. We are proud to show them how much we appreciate their dedication.� The goal of National EMS Week is to recognize the numerous ways EMS providers make a difference and improve the quality of life for everyone through life-saving endeavors. Another focus during the week is to educate the public about how to be safe at home. This includes posting emergency phone numbers by every telephone in the home, enrolling in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course, checking batteries in smoke detectors, and updating first-aid kits. �Our emergency medical personnel play an incredibly important role at our hospital,� adds Pate. �During a medical emergency, it�s important to know that treatment is being administered by qualified health professionals, and, just as importantly, by people who care. National EMS Week allows each of us to say �thank you� to these heroes who are an invaluable resource to our community.�
CFISD Superintendent addresses Chronicle story Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 13, 2009
You may have read the May 12 article in the Houston Chronicle about HB 3646. The headline stated "Texas teachers, districts gain boost in funding from House." This is very misleading about the impact HB 3646 will have on Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. CFISD cut $27 million in order to balance the 2008-2009 budget. Without financial relief during this session, the district will be facing another budget deficit. The two major school finance bills that are making their way through the legislative process are SB 2392 and HB 3646. HB 3646 was passed by the House on May 11 and if it becomes law would have a detrimental impact on both CFISD and the community.
How could this happen? The Legislative Budget Board (LBB) provides legislators with total property value and student enrollment projections. The LBB data overestimates both the district's total revenue and student enrollment projections, which resulted in inaccurate projections that the district will receive $54 million more revenue than under current law.
Total revenue under HB3646 was calculated by the LBB as if CFISD DOES NOT give an Optional 20% Local Homestead Exemption. This reduces the actual revenue this bill would provide by about $45 million. Another factor that inflates the LBB data is student enrollment is over projected.
The Houston Chronicle article stated that according to the LBB printouts, Cy-Fair ISD will receive an extra $446 per student. However, when the Optional 20% Local Homestead Exemption is factored out, Cy-Fair ISD will only receive $124 per student. The minimal increase in funding is not sufficient for a 2009-10 budget that must accommodate for student growth, fund the opening of three new campuses and meet the needs of more than 103,000 students!
What does the Optional 20% Local Homestead Exemption mean to this community? For the owner of a $200,000 home, this exemption saved $540 this year. HB 3646 assumes CFISD is not giving residents this property tax relief.
If HB 3646 becomes law, the legislature will not have given CFISD the financial relief that is critically needed. Instead, state lawmakers will narrow our 2009-2010 and future budget options to removing the Optional 20% Local Homestead Exemption, increasing the tax rate and/or cutting personnel and programs in order to balance our budget.
Sincerely, David Anthony, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
Summer Exhibition Features Majolica Ceramics June 2- 25 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 13, 2009
Enjoy some art this summer at Lone Star College-CyFair such as the �Nourishment Within/Without, Majolica Ceramics� exhibition on display June 2 through June 25 in the Bosque Gallery. Missouri ceramic artist, Wynne Wilbur, who also teaches art at Truman State University, works in the media of Majolica-decorated earthenware. Wilbur will host a workshop at 10:30 a.m. and then an artist talk at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4 in the Ceramics Studio in the Center for the Arts building. Another opportunity to meet this artist will be at the opening reception from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 pm. Thursday, June 4 in the Center for the Arts lobby. The Bosque Gallery is located in the Center for the Arts building on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. For gallery information call 832-482-1038 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/bosquegallery. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Wells to attend summer development program at Harvard Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 13, 2009
Raise Your Hand Texas, a non-profit, bi-partisan advocacy organization supporting public education, selected Cypress Creek High School principal Jim Wells to attend The Principals� Center at the Harvard Graduate School of Education this summer.
Wells is one of 100 principals out of 350 applicants statewide to attend one of the Center�s 12 summer institutes. Wells will attend the institute �Redesigning High Schools For Improved Instruction� June 28-July 3, 2009, in Cambridge, Mass.
The program will provide the theories, knowledge, tools and best practices necessary to redesign high schools to become powerful learning for students and adults.
Founded in 1981, The Principals� Center dedicates itself to the support, development and improvement of school principals. The Center�s programs and services offer the chance to acquire new perspectives on leadership, engage in personal reflection and develop professional networks.
�This is an opportune time to participate in the program at The Principal�s Center since Cypress Creek is going through a redesign and reprogramming phase over the next couple years,� Wells said. �It is a great opportunity, both personally and professionally.�
Check out the Cinema WOW! Film Series this Summer Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 13, 2009
Expand your horizons and escape to the movies for free this summer at Lone Star College-CyFair! The Cinema WOW! Film Series features six films which will focus on Film Noir: Past and Present. Classic film noir represents a genre of films defined by mood, sexual motivation, morally conflicted protagonists, themes of alienation and a dramatic and distorted visual style. Later neo-noir films echo this distinctive cinematic style. LSC-CyFair presenters host these films, offered as individual continuing education Film Appreciation classes, as well as an engaging discussion after the movie. The summer series includes �Blood Simple� Wednesday, June 10; �Laura� Tuesday, June 16 (at LSC-Fairbanks Center); �The African Queen� Wednesday, June 24; �Touch of Evil� Wednesday, July 8; �LA Confidential� Tuesday, July 14 (at LSC-Fairbanks Center); and �Bad Education� Wednesday, July 22. All films are shown at 7 p.m. in Art 102 in the Center for the Arts building on the LSC-CyFair Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress or at the LSC-Fairbanks Center at 14955 Northwest Freeway. Registration is required for this popular series, which is open to the community at no charge. For information, call 281-290-5273 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/filmseries. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Willbern ES names Woodul Volunteer of the Month Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 12, 2009
Board of Trustees member Lida Woodul listens as Willbern Elementary School second-grade student Shirley Mazaltov-Ast reads out loud on Tuesday afternoon. Woodul volunteers at Willbern every Tuesday.
CFISD Board member Lida Woodul was named the Volunteer of the Month at Willbern Elementary School for May 2009.
A Board member since 1999, Woodul has volunteered at Willbern each Tuesday during the 2008-2009 school year. She specializes in helping the younger students with their reading.
�There is a saying, �Character is doing the right thing when no one is looking.� Ms. Woodul gives her time to Cy-Fair ISD through her role as a Board member, where she can be easily seen in the public eye. But, Ms. Woodul has gone beyond that by giving her time to our young students,� said Carrie Marz, Willbern principal. �The students look forward to Ms. Woodul�s visits and the teachers appreciate her help as she quietly appears every week at our school. She never asked for any type of recognition, but she was a perfect candidate for our Volunteer of the Month.�
Woodul was unanimously voted the Volunteer of the Month by Willbern�s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) Board. Along with the honor, she received a reserved parking place for the month of May and a Willbern Whales t-shirt.
The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks Raises over $2,000 for Hunger Relief In Africa Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 12, 2009
The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks recently sold briskets to raise over $2,000 for malnourished children and pregnant women in Africa. The money, donated to UNICEF, will be used to purchase at least two metric tons of a high-protein porridge-like mix scientifically designed to supplement the inadequate diets of children under five and pregnant women. The brisket sale was the brainchild of Thomas Benson, of Advantax, who is the current president of Cy-Fair Rotary, and D. Ray Young, president of Water Engineers. In remarking on the success of the event, club president Tom Benson said, �The delicious briskets, cooked by Carl's Barbeque, located at 290 and Telge Road, were such a big hit with the public this past Mother's Day weekend, that the sale will become an annual event. We want to thank fellow Rotarian, Mike Reiland, the owner of Carl�s Barbeque for helping facilitate this event.�
Board recognizes Livestock Show Top Volume Buyer Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 11, 2009
Mike Jarrar of Jarrar & Company, Inc., second from right, holds the third annual Top Volume Buyer Buckle, which he received at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on Monday night. Pictured, from left to right, are David Reynolds, coordinator of technology education and agricultural science; Mike Jarrar; Darlene Jarrar; and Board of Trustees member Don Ryan.
The CFISD Board of Trustees recognized Mike Jarrar of Jarrar & Company, Inc., during its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, May 11, as the Top Volume Buyer at the 2009 CFISD Livestock Show & Sale, held Jan. 29-31 at the CFISD Exhibit Center.
In honor of Jarrar�s support of Future Farmers of America (FFA) students within the district, David Reynolds, coordinator of technology education and agricultural science, presented him with the third annual Top Volume Buyer Buckle. The buckle is awarded each year to honor the Top Volume Buyer.
Jarrar invested $77,350 in student projects at the show�the largest contribution by any one buyer this year.
The Cy-Fair community gave a combined total of $510,740 at the Premium Sale, Freezer Sale and in donations to students.
�Raising an animal teaches FFA students the value of hard work, dedication and good business management. They depend upon the generosity of our community members to buy their projects,� Reynolds said. �Mike and Darlene Jarrar exemplify the many outstanding buyers who show up each year to support and encourage our students. They have consistently chosen to invest in the futures of FFA students over the years.�
Athletes named to All-Greater Houston teams Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 11, 2009
Seven CFISD athletes were named to the Houston Chronicle All-Greater Houston (AGH) teams that were released last week.
In AGH Girls Basketball, Cy-Fair High School junior Chiney Ogwumike was named to the First Team, while sophomore Cassie Peoples was named to the Third Team.
In AGH Boys Basketball, Cypress Springs High School senior Erik Williams was named to the Second Team.
In AGH Girls Soccer, Cypress Creek High School junior Michelle Kloss was named to the First Team, while Cypress Woods High School senior Alyssa Cowie and Cy-Fair senior Samantha Brenz were named to the Second Team.
In AGH Boys Soccer, Langham Creek High School junior Jade George was named to the Second Team.
Students win national art and writing awards Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 11, 2009
Four CFISD students were recently named winners in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards of 2009.
The students advanced to the national contest after winning in the regional contest, conducted by the Harris County Department of Education (HCDE). Only 1,000 students across the country won national awards.
Cypress Woods High School sophomore Lindsey Oncken won a Gold Medal as well as the Trustees Incentive Award from the HCDE for her poem entitled �Gumballs.� The poem tells of a runaway teen whose life has been shredded by the loss of her mother when she was young.
Cypress Woods junior Samantha Katsounas received a Silver Medal for her journalism essay entitled �In Memoriam,� which tells about the demise of the American Dream.
Cypress Woods junior Hannah Tucker also won a Silver Medal for her memoir entitled �Lost in Thought,� which explores a phenomenal personal interaction with words and thoughts.
The district�s lone art winner was Cy-Fair High School sophomore Hannah Olson, who won a Silver Medal for her photo, �Unspoken Innocence.�
The national winners have been invited to attend an awards ceremony at Carnegie Hall on June 4.
Danish art award presentation scheduled for May 13 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 8, 2009 Danish Elementary School fifth-grade student Manuel Martinezwill be honored during an awards ceremony at Danish on May 13.
Danish Elementary School fifth-grade student Manuel Martinez will be presented with awards from Reliant Energy in honor of winning the Reliant Energy Power of Art People�s Choice Voting Contest for his artwork, �Come Visit the Hayloft.�
The Houston Livestock and Show Rodeo Power of Art Committee will have a presentation during a fifth-grade assembly at Danish (11850 Fallbrook Dr.) on Wednesday, May 13 at 10:40 a.m.
Reliant Energy selected three winners out of 25 entries according to the number of online votes their artwork received while posted on reliantpowerzone.com March 9 � April 6. Students, parents, teachers and the general public voted for their favorite artwork during the contest.
During the presentation, Reliant representatives will award a prize package that includes $1,000 toward art supplies for Danish, $1,000 toward art supplies for CFISD and a rodeo gift package for Martinez that includes a $100 Target gift card, a plaque, Reliant Energy branded items and Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo paraphernalia.
Lobo soccer players selected to all-region team Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 8, 2009 Senior Andres Gomez
Three Langham Creek High School boys soccer players were named to the 2009 All-Region II team by the Texas Association of Soccer Coaches (TASCO) this week.
Lobos were represented on the team for the seventh consecutive year, as senior Andres Gomez, junior Jade George and sophomore Nick Boardley received the distinguished honor.
Additionally, head coach Scott Tucker was selected to coach the North squad for the TASCO Senior Showcase match, to be held in Brenham on May 15. Gomez and fellow Lobo seniors Matt Mayer and Manuel Flores will play for the North team. Langham Creek players have participated in the TASCO all-star event for two out of the last three years.
�We are so excited about the recognitions that players from the Langham Creek men�s soccer program continue to receive,� Tucker said. �It truly says a tremendous amount about the quality of all the young men who represent our program year in and year out, and each of our players understand these would not be possible without teammates, parents and coaches behind them every step of the way.�
Bands receive �first division� at UIL contest Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 8, 2009
All CFISD varsity concert bands received �first division� status at the UIL Region 27 Concert and Sight-Reading competition, held April 24-25 at Cypress Ranch High School.
Held each spring, the Concert and Sight-Reading competition uses three judges to measure students� abilities by giving them a rating of first (the highest) through fifth divisions.
Receiving a �first division� means the performance was rated superior by the panel of judges, the music was executed at a high level and the students are fundamentally sound on their instruments.
�Having all the high school varsity groups receive this UIL award shows the fine teaching of our directors and the expertise of our students,� said Larry Matysiak, CFISD director of secondary music. �It also shows that high standards are evident at each campus in the district.�
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Shows Its Appreciation During National Nurses Week and National Hospital Week Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 8, 2009
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital is celebrating National Nurses Week from May 4 to 8 and National Hospital Week from May 11 to 16 to recognize the hardworking men and women who provide the high quality, compassionate care that patients and their families have come to expect from the hospital. Activities during National Hospital Week will coincide with celebrations to mark the hospital�s 26th anniversary. Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital opened in 1983 with 100 employees and 30 physicians on the medical staff. Today the hospital is the third largest employer in the area with over 850 employees and more than 400 members of the medical staff. �Our employees are dedicated to helping Houstonians live longer, healthier lives,� says Terry Wheeler, chief executive officer at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital. �They treat patients like they would their own family members, friends and neighbors, utilizing the latest technology while always remembering to focus on the personalized care that makes such a difference in the lives of our patients and their families. I am proud of their commitment to quality patient care, willingness to go the extra mile, and motivation to care for our community.� Hospitals across the country have been celebrating National Hospital Week since 1921. Communities are invited to join in saying �thank you� to the many health care workers who provide quality care throughout the year. National Nurses Week honors the hard work and dedication of nurses. The observance is held in conjunction with the birth date of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, on May 12. �Our employees often refer to their positions at the hospital not as a job, but as a calling,� added Wheeler. �That feeling is reflected in every caring touch and the time they spend listening to each patient. National Nurses Week and National Hospital Week give the rest of us the chance to say �thank you� to these extraordinary people who care for our families and friends.�
Cy Springs athletes sign letters of intent Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 7, 2009 Student trainer Zachary Winkelmann signs with Texas Lutheran.
The following athletes signed letters of intent:
� Dalton Blonstein, baseball, McMurry University � Brittany Upton, softball, Texas Lutheran University � Jessica Leiva, soccer, St. Gregory University � Cynthia Diaz, soccer, Prairie View A&M � Zachary Winkelmann, student athletic trainer, Texas Lutheran University � Imani Spivey, track and field, Central Arizona College.
Leadership North Houston Graduation Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 7, 2009
Leadership North Houston welcomes the community and LNH alumni to join in the 14th annual graduation celebration and awards dinner Thursday, May 21 at Shirley Acres, 217 Woerner Road. In addition to honoring the 31 graduates of the 2008-2009 LNH class, the evening will also include the presentation of the John E. Pickelman Leadership North Houston Fellow Award and the Distinguished Community Leadership Award. This year�s recipient of the fellow award is Cathy Owen, director of Community Leadership Institute at the Lone Star College System. The LNH Board presents this award annually to a worthy community leader who has shown outstanding leadership qualities that benefit the entire community. Nominees for the distinguished leader include Susan Dietz with Whitney Bank, Angila Ervin with Lawton Publications, Steve Garceau of Spring Nursery and Landscape, Reginald Lillie of Reginald Lillie Insurance Service, Leslie Martone with Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union and Kathi Schmidt with Reach Unlimited. This award is given to an LNH alumni who has demonstrated community leadership and has the quality of empowering and inspiring others. This memorable evening will begin at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception and includes a silent auction, dinner and the graduation and award ceremonies. Tickets are $35 per person. Platinum and Gold sponsor tables of 10 are available for $1,000 and $500 respectively. For reservations, call 832-813-6665 or e-mail anita.c.furr@lonestar.edu. For information, ask for Cathy Owen. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Add L.I.F.E. to Summer with LSC-CyFair Free Programs Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 7, 2009
Harness your inner success, try a professional tea tasting, discover answers to missing books of the Bible and learn the marvels of olive oil at upcoming June workshops. Lone Star College-CyFair�s Learning, Inspiration, Fellowship, and Enrichment (L.I.F.E.) programs are free and held Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the library (Room 131 unless otherwise noted) at 9191 Barker Cypress.
June 3 � Success Uncovered - Do you define success as being a millionaire? Or how about just waking up in the morning? Motivational speaker John Prince reveals the power within you to harness your inner success and happiness.
June 10 � The Path of Tea - Come to a professional tea tasting and learn about all things tea with Thia McKann of thepathoftea.com, A totally organic & fair trade tea shop
June 17 � Missing Books of the Bible - Who decided which books would be chosen and which would be rejected? Do these missing books reveal hidden mysteries? Join professor Shawn Miller as we discover the answers to these great mysteries.
June 24 � Virgin or Extra Virgin - Olive Oil Guy, Dave Laufenberg, of KDS Gourmet Foods, uncovers the marvels of olive oil. Learn about harvests and processing. Stay a little longer to taste the difference that quality and freshness can make for delicious taste and healthful benefits.
Call the library at 281-290-3213 for L.I.F.E. program information or go online to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/library. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Becky Koop named new principal at Matzke ES Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 7, 2009
Becky Koop, an assistant principal at Warner Elementary School, was named the new principal at Matzke Elementary School on Tuesday.
Koop replaces Anne Odum, who will retire at the end of the 2008-2009 school year.
Koop has spent 14 total years in education. She began as a high school teacher in San Antonio, and after three years came to CFISD as a teacher at Hancock Elementary School for three years. She taught a year each at Hamilton Middle School and Matzke, then served as instructional specialist at Emmott Elementary School for one year. She served three years as an assistant principal at Jowell Elementary School before moving to her current position at Warner, where she has been for two years.
Koop received her Bachelor of Science from UT-San Antonio and her Masters of Education from Prairie View A&M University. Her certifications include All-Level Physical Education (PK-12), Elementary Self-Contained (1-8), Secondary Health Education (6-12), Second Physical Education (6-12) and Principal (EC-12).
JVHS unit receives AFJROTC Distinguished Unit Award Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 6, 2009
The Jersey Village High School Air Force Junior ROTC has been selected as one of 393 units to receive the 2008-2009 Air Force Junior ROTC Distinguished Unit Award.
The award recognizes units that have performed above and beyond normal expectations, and that have distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their school and community while meeting the AFJROTC mission of producing better citizens for America.
Jersey Village AFJROTC Unit TX-20017 is coordinated by Major Dennis Martinez and Technical Sergeant Joseph Campbell. The objectives of the JROTC program are to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship and life skills; promote community service; instill responsibility, character and self-discipline through character education; and to provide instruction in air and space fundamentals.
AFJROTC is located in 879 high schools across the United States and at selected schools in Europe, the Pacific and Puerto Rico. Enrollment includes more than 102,000 cadets.
Percussion One Foundation Concert Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 6, 2009
Bring the family to enjoy an entertaining afternoon mix of drumming, dancing and vocalists at the May 17 Percussion One Foundation event at Lone Star College-CyFair. Percussion One (a high school drumline and artists in residence at LSC-CyFair), P1-13 Cy-Fair and P1-13 Klein (junior high/middle school percussionists) and other artists will present �out of the box� performances covering a wide range of aural and visual styles. �Percussion, Drumline, Techno, Fusion, Drum Circle, Dancers and Vocals are some of the many elements you will enjoy at this 4 p.m. event,� said Lamar Burkhalter, founder and executive director of the nonprofit Percussion One Foundation. �In addition, participate in the silent auction at 3 p.m. with donations from many companies and sports teams from the Greater Houston area. Come be entertained as we�re Drummin� for Dollars and Beatin� for Bids.� Percussion One is a diverse group of musicians and percussionists who have performed throughout Texas and locally at Houston area professional sports pre-game and half-time shows under the direction of Burkhalter. He expanded Percussion One to provide instruction and performance opportunities for junior high/middle school percussionists, P1-13, as well as to help with their overall preparedness for a high school drumline. General admission is $8 for the upcoming May concert set in the Main Stage Theatre, located in the Center for the Arts on the Barker Cypress campus. Tickets are available via e-mail at info@percussionone.org, phone at 281-232-5069 or at 3 p.m. at the box office in the Center for the Arts building at 9191 Barker Cypress. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Yvette Garcia, the assistant principal at Holbrook Elementary School, was named the new principal at Francone Elementary School on Monday.
Garcia replaces Sue Romanowsky, who will retire at the end of the 2008-2009 school year.
�I am thrilled to be joining the Francone family. It is an honor to have the opportunity to work at a school with rich traditions,� Garcia said. �I look forward to continuing along the successful path that has been laid out before me.�
Garcia has spent 26 total years in education. She began her teaching career in CFISD at Moore Elementary School, where she taught for six years before teaching in California for two. She returned to CFISD as a teacher at Sheridan Elementary School for nine years, then served one year as the instructional specialist and three years as an assistant principal at Post Elementary School. She then transferred to Holbrook, where she has spent the past three years.
Garcia received her bachelor�s degree from Sam Houston State University and her Master of Education from Stephen F. Austin State University. Her certifications include Elementary Geography (1-8), Elementary Self-Contained (1-8), Kindergarten, ESL (PK-8) and Principal (EC-12).
Boys Go from Breaking Boards to Black Belt Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 6, 2009
Kyle Williams and Chintan Patel both earned their Black Belts approximately three years after taking a one-week martial arts summer camp session at Lone Star College-CyFair�s Discovery College. �They don�t walk in thinking they will be a Black Belt. They just think it will be cool,� said Robert Webre, Discovery College martial arts instructor for ages 6 to 12. �I tell them they get to run, jump, yell, hit stuff and they don�t get in trouble for it.� At the summer camp sessions, Webre introduces students to proper martial arts training to help them gain confidence, self-discipline and respect for themselves while building teamwork skills and a strong foundation of self-defense. At the end of the week, parents come in for a demonstration, which includes breaking boards. Discovery College, which offers a variety of summer camp sessions, sparked a martial arts interest in Williams at age 12 and Patel, 11. They later enrolled at Cypress Tae Kwon Do on Barker Cypress, which Webre owns, and where Williams, now 16 and Patel, 15, made a lot of friends while earning their Black Belts. Both teens say they learned that Tae-Kwon-Do is not about nunchaku or like in the movie �The Karate Kid,� but more about defending yourself and becoming a better person living by the five tenets of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit. Registration is now under way for Discovery College at both LSC-CyFair and LSC-Fairbanks Center. A wide variety of week-long camps are available June through August. �Encourage your child to try something new,� said Terri Hill, Discovery College coordinator. �It might become their passion, spark a new interest or at least broaden their horizons.� For Discovery College registration information for ages 6 through 15 and a schedule, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/discoverycollege. For information on Cypress Tae Kwon Do, go to CypressTaeKwonDo.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
CFISD schools reopen Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 5, 2009
At 1:15 p.m. this afternoon, health officials at Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services (HCPHES) contacted the school district to announce revised school closing guidelines issued from the Center for Disease (CDC). The CDC no longer finds it necessary for schools to be closed if they have a suspected or confirmed case of the H1N1 virus, and schools that had closed for flu-related reasons may now reopen. Yeager and Horne Elementary Schools will re-open for all staff and students on Wednesday, May 6. All CFISD schools may resume previously canceled school-related activities. Decisions regarding the re-scheduling of these activities and events will be determined by district and campus administration. The CDC continues to recommend students and staff with flu-like symptoms stay home-or be sent home-for a minimum of 7 days, and adults continue to monitor children's health (and their own) for flu-like symptoms. Please visit cdc.gov/h1n1flu/K12_dismissal.htm for more information on H1N1 flu. The district will continue to keep you informed with the most current and updated information on the district website: cfisd.net/dept2/health/swine.htm.
Sincerely, David Anthony, Ed. D. Superintendent of Schools
Seven Honored as Adjunct Faculty Excellence Awards Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 5, 2009
From more than 70 student and colleague nominations, seven outstanding faculty at Lone Star College-CyFair were recently honored as 2009 Adjunct Faculty Excellence Awards Winners. After reviewing portfolios consisting of teaching philosophies and resumes and tallying votes, the committee rated finalists on the professionalism of their documents, their use of the LSC-CyFair Learning Signature and their commitment to student learning, the community and the system as a whole. Winners, selected from each college division, received a framed certificate, $250 and recognition at the end-of-the-year collegewide event. This year�s award recipients include from LSC-Fairbanks Center - Assia Baburi, who teaches ESOL; from Division 1 - Joanne Ballato who teaches Computer Information Systems; Division 2 � Andy Dexter who teaches Emergency Medical Services; Division 3 � Bob Lynch, who teaches Journalism and Mass Communications; Division 4 � Charles Hines, who teaches Sociology and Criminal Justice and Division 5 � Jan Brown, who teaches ESOL. The recipient for Division 6 was Stephen Wheir, who passed away in February. He taught Government and was with the college when the doors first opened. �He was a caring and committed member of the LSC-CyFair team and is dearly missed,� said Director of Professional Development Melissa Rotholz, who presented the awards. �In honor of his commitment to our students and teaching excellence, the Division 6 Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award was presented to his wife, Helen Wheir.�
Cy Falls Science Olympiad team qualifies for nationals Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 5, 2009
The Cypress Falls High School Science Olympiad team placed second in the state in the C Division of the Texas Science Olympiad, held April 24-25 at Texas A&M University.
Cypress Falls finished with 138 points behind the first-place team, Liberal Arts and Science Academy of Austin. By placing second, Cypress Falls qualified for the 2009 National Science Olympiad Tournament, to be held May 15-16 at Augusta State University in Augusta, Ga. Only the top 60 teams in the country advance to the national tournament.
Team members are seniors Cathy Phan, Rachel Lewis, Franco Gallastegui, Anthony Ly and Jose Tamez; juniors Sihe Jiang, Randy Pok, Abhas Mishra and Jasneet Singh; sophomores Nhan Tran, Michelle Lai, John Fortner and Rohit Kumar; and freshmen Norman Ren, Rohit Raghu, Layeek Ismail, Nicole Chae and Perry Feng.
�I am extremely proud of our entire team. I challenged them in February to step it up for state and go for it, and they did just that,� said Cypress Falls coach Jennifer Wuellner.
The team also won several individual awards at state: Cathy Phan, Rachel Lewis and Nhan Tran won first place in Experimental Design; Cathy Phan, Michelle Lai and Randy Pok won first place in Picture This; Cathy Phan and Rachel Lewis won second place in Write It, Do It; Michelle Lai and Randy Pok won second place in We�ve Got Your Number; John Fortner and Sihe Jiang won second place in History of Science; Franco Gallastegui and Anthony Ly won third place in Cell Biology; Franco Gallastegui and Abhas Mishra won third place in Chemistry Lab; Anthony Ly and Jose Tamez won third place in Physics Lab; John Fortner and Norman Ren won third place in Fossils; Cathy Phan and Michelle Lai won fourth place in Health Science; and Rohit Kumar and Rohit Raghu won fourth place in Egg-O-Naut.
Summer Bridge Program Helps First-time College Students Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 5, 2009
Not sure if you�re ready for college? A summer program at Lone Star College-CyFair aims to help first-time college students get started on the right foot. The Summer Bridge Program is intended for first-time college students who are on the threshold of being able to enroll in college-level courses. Free textbooks, mentoring, tutoring and support services are incorporated into the program to assist students in their transition into college. A stipend of $400 will also be provided for those who successfully complete the course. �Students who have participated in the Summer Bridge program at Lone Star College-CyFair have had up to a 98% success rate in their summer course. This is a wonderful opportunity for incoming students to get up to college-level reading, writing or math by the fall semester,� said Christine Timmerman, Director of Outreach and Retention. LSC-CyFair will offer five classes - two in English 0307 (Developmental Writing II), two in Math 0310 (Intermediate Algebra) and one in English 0305 (Developmental Reading II.) This program, which runs from July 13 through Aug. 6, is a part of a state-wide research effort by the National Center for Postsecondary Research (NCPR) on the effectiveness of Developmental Summer Bridge Programs. For program eligibility requirements and information, interested students should speak with the College Connections Advisor at their high school, call Erin Smith at 281-290-3430, e-mail cfoutreach@lonestar.edu or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/summerbridge. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
LSC-CyFair Graduate Honored as Coca-Cola Scholar Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 4, 2009
Dehua Lea, an international student from Malaysia, walks in Lone Star College-CyFair�s commencement not only as a 2009 Coca-Cola National Finalist, but with an experience he sums up with one word � opportunity. �I have had opportunities that I would not have even dreamed of when I started studying at LSC-CyFair,� said Lea, who enrolled in classes in Spring 2006 shortly after gaining permanent residency in December 2005. �I am a perfectionist at heart and my LSC-CyFair experience both inside and outside the classroom has helped me to work toward bettering myself.� His hard work academically earned Lea an invitation to be part of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. �Joining Phi Theta Kappa gave me a sense of community at LSC-CyFair,� said Lea, a past president of LSC-CyFair�s Beta Lambda Mu Chapter. �It helped me to adjust to college life. One thing led to the next and my involvement with the college pretty much snowballed.� As a member of Beta Lambda Mu Chapter, Lea earned a Texas STARS scholarship, which is offered to Phi Theta Kappa members in the Texas Region. At the recent Phi Theta Kappa International Convention, he was honored as a member of both the All-Texas Academic Team and the All-USA Academic Team. His scores earned in the All-USA Academic Team competition led to his selection as a Coca-Cola finalist and $1,000 scholarship recipient. Having earned his an associate�s of arts degree at LSC-CyFair, Lea is now pursuing a bachelor�s degree in International Studies at the University of St. Thomas. He plans to go on to graduate school and eventually work for an international organization. �Dehua is an outstanding scholar as well as a great example of servant leadership and dedication to the Beta Lambda Mu Chapter,� said Esther Robinson, Phi Theta Kappa co-advisor. �We have been privileged to work with him as he developed outstanding leadership and service skills which have been recognized on a national basis.� For information on the Beta Lambda Mu Chapter , contact Robinson at 281-290-3994 or via e-mail at Esther.M.Robinson@LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com. School Nurse Day - May 6 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 4, 2009
Nurses from CFISD will be among the approximately 60,000 school nurses across the United States recognized on National School Nurse Day, Wednesday, May 6.
CFISD employs 78 school nurses, 10 licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and 37 clinic assistants.
�The role of the school nurse has changed over the years from a task-doer to a primary care giver, child advocate, health educator and a liason to the community. School nurses are responsible for an ever-changing and ever-growing variety of health care needs and are a vital link in the educational team,� said Jan Jones, CFISD director of health services. �The focus of the nurse is to provide care, referral and follow-up so that the student can be back in the classroom healthy and ready to learn.�
National School Nurse Day was established in 1972 to foster a better understanding of the role of school nurses in the educational setting. National School Nurse Day always falls on the Wednesday during National Nurses Week.
The 2009 National School Nurse Day theme is �School Nurses: Meeting the Needs of Today�s Students,� reflective of the overall impact school nurses have on the health and well-being of students, who face more challenging issues today than ever before.
For more information on National School Nurse Day, visit the National Association of School Nurses website at nasn.org.
Horne Elementary closed through May 18 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 4, 2009
In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services (HCPHES) has directed the closure of Horne Elementary effective immediately. The campus will be closed Monday, May 4, 2009 until Monday, May 18, 2009. This recommendation was made after HCPHES was notified of a highly probable case of the H1N1 virus (Swine flu) in a Horne Elementary student. The reason for closing schools during the H1N1 flu season is to reduce the spread of the virus from child to child. It is important to note the Center for Disease Control (CDC) also recommends that parents and students avoid congregating outside of the school setting. As a Key Communicator, I know you are concerned about the health of our community. The District will continue to keep you informed with the most current and updated information on the District website: cfisd.net/dept2/health/swine.htm.
Sincerely, David Anthony, Ed. D. Superintendent of Schools
Bridgeland to Host Start! Walking Day Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 4, 2009
The community of Bridgeland and the American Heart Association invite area residents to take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle May 16 during the Bridgeland Start! Walking Day.
Start! Walking is set for 10 a.m. to noon along the Cypress Creek Nature Trail in Bridgeland. Participants are asked to spend 30 minutes walking the trail and learning how easy it is to incorporate regular exercise into a daily routine. Heart-healthy refreshments will be provided and various vendors will be on hand to discuss healthy lifestyles. Also, the first 100 people will receive multi-function pedometers able to count steps, calculate the numbers of calories burned and determine how many miles have been walked. The event is a prelude to the annual Heart Walk, hosted by the American Heart Association to raise funds and awareness about heart disease and the positive benefits of exercise. The Heart Walk is slated for Nov. 7 at the Cy-Fair campus of Lone Star College.
Heart disease is the nation�s leading killer and stroke is the third-ranked cause of deaths in the country each year. The risk of both heart disease and stroke can be significantly reduced by walking 30 minutes a day. According to the American Heart Association, walking has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity and has many positive benefits in addition to reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, such as improving blood pressure and blood sugar levels, maintaining body weight, reducing the risk of breast and colon cancer, reducing the risk of non-insulin dependent (type 2) diabetes and enhancing mental well-being, among others. And those with particularly busy lifestyles can derive the same benefits from three 10-minute walks per day as from a single 30-minute session.
Bridgeland gives its residents plenty of opportunities to walk outdoors, including the 2.5-mile Shores Lake Trail, the nearly two-mile House-Hahl Trail and the first 1.5 miles of the planned six-mile Cypress Creek Nature Trail. The Cypress Creek Nature Trail is set along the historic Cypress Creek Corridor, a 1,000-acre nature area and creek system bordering the northern edge of the Bridgeland community. Along the trail, hikers can enjoy wildlife observation areas amid the trees and on Cypress Lake, as well as points of interest with benches and educational signage pertaining to the history of the area and indigenous plants and animals. Appealing to bird watchers, approximately 140 species of birds have been identified in the area. Bridgeland has plans for more than 60 miles of interconnecting trails. For more information on Start! Walking Day or Bridgeland, visit bridgeland.com. Also, learn more about heart health and the Start! Northwest Houston Heart Walk, visit nwharrisheartwalk.org.
Hamilton MS team wins EcoBot Challenge Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 1, 2009
Pictured, from left to right, are MaryPatterson, Hamilton teacher and team sponsor; Bob Rehak, president and founder of Rehak Creative Services; Kevin Patterson, Hamiltoneighth-grade student; Douglas Kleiner, president of the Education Foundation of Harris County; Ethan Kovar, Hamilton eighth-grade student; Donna Fujimoto Cole, president and founder of Cole Chemical andDistributing, Inc.; and Andrew Tang, Hamilton eighth-grade student.
The Hamilton Middle School EcoBots team, the EcoNerds, won first place at the 2009 All-Earth EcoBot Challenge, held Saturday at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The overall winner was determined by a combination of the five rounds, final round and Marketing competition. The EcoNerds placed third in the Robotics competition and were recognized for Best Use of Resources. EcoNerds team members are eighth-grade students Kevin Patterson, Ethan Kovar and Andrew Tang. During the competition, Hamilton students were exposed to S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) concepts as they designed and built robots for a specific mission. They became more environmentally aware as they thought about solutions, worked through and solved a myriad of problems as a team, considered career opportunities while networking with experts in the field and practiced presentation skills. Three other Hamilton teams placed in the top 16 of the 53 teams at the challenge. The RecycleBots placed first, the Flying Purple Pollution Eaters placed second and the Robo Tigers placed eighth in the Robotics competition, while the Robo Tigers placed fourth overall in the Marketing competition. The Flying Purple Pollution Eaters were recognized for the Keep It Simple award for simplicity of their robotic design, and special mention was made of their honesty in scoring�the team was given the incorrect point total in one round and called attention to the judges that they were scored too high.
Student Awards Banquet Recognizes Outstanding Achievements Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 1, 2009
Along with the academic achievements being celebrated as another semester closes, are the outstanding achievements of students in the more than 40 Lone Star College-CyFair student organizations. �The clubs are not just fun but help enhance the overall educational experience of students through social, cultural and intellectual activities,� said Holly Williams, Student Activities Program Manager. �Student clubs also provide opportunities for students to compete for scholarships and awards as well as to gain leadership, organization and teamwork skills.� The recent Student Awards Banquet highlighted the variety of clubs available and recognized the impact such clubs, students and sponsors, make across the campus and in the community. Award winners follow: Outstanding Club of the Year --- Tennis Team Outstanding New Club of the Year --- Women�s Soccer Outstanding Club Member of the Year --- Andra Yanchenko Outstanding Club Officer of the Year --- Donald Smith Outstanding Sponsor of the Year --- Larry Norris Outstanding Service Learning Student(s) of the Year --- Hana Choi and Beatriz Lavalle Student Activities Unsung Hero Award --- Nobell Vasquez For information on student organizations, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/studentactivities or call Williams at 281-290-3270. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Houston-Area Scouts to Launch 3,200 Rockets in Official World Record Attempt Cy-Fair - Cypress Texas News Posted May 1, 2009
On Sunday, July 4, 2010, more than 3,000 Houston-area Cub Scouts, Boys Scouts and leaders will attempt to break a Guinness World Record with a simultaneous launch of 3,200 model rockets. The current official Guinness World Record is held by Troop and Pack 990 (Capital District Council in Austin, Texas), for launching 965 rockets in May 2007. Several months later, scouts at the World Scouting Jamboree in London launched over 1,000 rockets simultaneously. After reading about and watching the world record launches on the Internet, several boy scouts, a local rocket hobbyist and scout leader decided that Houston area scouts could celebrate the 100th anniversary of Boy Scouts of America by breaking this record. In November 2009, scouts from around the Houston area will begin ordering their �World Record� rocket kits. Each of the rockets will be individually built and will include a Centennial Boy Scout logo and Guinness World Record recognition sticker. The rockets will rise 500 to 1000 feet in the air and must launch within 5 seconds of each other to meet the standard set by London�s Guinness World Record committee. Local and regional VIPs will be in attendance. Local Rocketry clubs will be providing some exciting demonstration launches as well as displays of their High-Power rockets. Food and hobby vendors will be on site as well. Local and national media are invited to attend the launch early to film the set-up, special guests and launch. Interviews with Scouts, Scout leaders and community leaders can be scheduled in advance. The World Record Rocket Launch committee is seeking corporate and private sponsorships to help defray expenses. For additional information on this event, sponsorships or to sign up a scout unit to participate, we ask everyone to visit bsarocketry.org or to email andy@bsarocketry.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Yeager ES to close 14 days due to CDC mandate Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted May 1, 2009
According to a new guideline released by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) today, school districts must comply by closing schools with a confirmed case of Swine Flu for a minimum of 14 days.
The new regulation is effective immediately. If no student or staff member develops symptoms of Swine Flu�now called H1N1�Yeager Elementary School will reopen on May 18, 2009.
Yeager was closed starting on Friday, May 1, after the Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services (HCPHES) was notified of laboratory confirmation of Swine Flu in a Yeager student.
An on-demand video update and audio podcast from Dr. David Anthony, superintendent of schools, have been posted to the district website at cfisd.net
Cy-Fair Blood Donor Wins �Diamonds for Donors� Giveaway Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 30, 2009
Cy-Fair resident Lan Cheah is the proud winner of a set of his-and-hers Fossil-brand Commit for Life watches from Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. Cheah is one of four winners who will receive a set of watches through The Blood Center�s Diamonds for Donors promotion, in which all who donate or attempt to donate in April are eligible. Cheah made her winning blood donation at the Cy-Fair Neighborhood Donor Center, at 11811 FM 1960 West, Suite 120. She can also usually be found donating at blood drives at Jacobs Engineering, where she is an environmental engineer. Cheah truly understands what it means to be a blood donor. More than 20 years ago, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and needed blood. After that time, Cheah decided to Commit for Life as a regular blood donor. Her brother later required blood as a cancer patient, and her niece benefited from blood donations as a premature baby. �We make donating blood a family affair,� Cheah says. �My son is 21, and he helps save lives, too.� Individuals are encouraged to make it a life-saving summer. Commit for Life donors who successfully complete two donations or a single double red cell donation between May 1 and Aug. 31 will be eligible to order a Kroger gift card worth $15 from the Commit for Life store. Once they have become eligible, a donor may log on to the Commit for Life store at www.giveblood.org to order their complimentary gift card. A handling fee of 200 Commit for Life store points applies. For more information or to schedule your donation, visit giveblood.org or call 1-888-482-5663. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Three Students Win the �Who�s Your Hero?� Speech Contest Cy-Fair - Cypress, News Posted April 30, 2009
The Wright Brothers, Jesus and a friend helped three students win the recent �Who�s Your Hero?� speech contest at Lone Star College-CyFair. Brandon McMurry won first place and was awarded a $150 gift card. His speech was a celebration of aviation and the Wright Brothers. Herlande Charles won second place and was awarded a $100 gift card for her tribute to Jesus. And, Mary Toney won third place and was awarded a $75 gift card for her tribute to her friend Shelby, who lives with Downs Syndrome. The LSC-CyFair Speech Department�s second annual �Who�s Your Hero?� speech contest drew 21 student contestants presenting to more than 200 students and community members in attendance on various themes from war heroes to their parents. This year�s judges included four speech faculty members: Assistant Professor Paige Davis, who also helped organize this year�s event, and Adjunct Professors, Donna Blank, Kristin Hill and Cathy Jo Watson. Adjunct Professor of Speech Burton French emceed the event and kept the audience entertained. Joining Davis as an event organizers were Professors of Speech Communication Heather Baker and Sunnye Pruden and Associate Professor of Speech Communication Stacy Gresell. For information on the speech department, contact Baker, department chair, at 281-290-3914. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
NAM Resale Shops once again able to sell children�s merchandise to community Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 30, 2009
Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) has resumed the sale of selected children�s items that meet the guidelines set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act in their three area resale shops and community programs. The organization has implemented policies and procedures to ensure that all children�s items for sale meet the new federal regulations for lead. �We are excited to once again be able to offer low-cost children�s clothing and furniture to the public,� said Carole Little, NAM President and CEO. �The community really depends on having access to these affordable items, and NAM depends on the proceeds in order to fund our programs and services.� NAM discontinued the sales and acceptance of children�s merchandise in February, when the national Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 went into effect, prohibiting the selling or reselling of clothes and toys for children 12 and under if they contain more than a specified percentage of lead or a plastic additive called phthalates. After researching affordable solutions, NAM has put into place a process to ensure that all children�s items on the sales floor meet the requirements set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. For more information about NAM�s resale shops and policies, please contact Dale Leatherman, V.P. of Administration and Business Development, at 281-885-4579. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Annual �Stamp Out Hunger� Food Drive Benefiting Houston Food Bank Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 30, 2009
Saturday, May 9, 2009, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) will conduct its 17th annual �Stamp Out Hunger� food drive across the country. Here in Houston, close to 3,800 letter carriers of the NALC local chapter will collect donations throughout the area to be donated to the Houston Food Bank and partner food pantries. Last year the NALC food drive collected approximately 400,000 pounds of food in greater Houston for the 400 hunger-relief programs the food bank serves. Nationally, the letter carriers collected 73.1 million pounds. The local NALC chapter is setting a goal of 500,000 pounds of food collected � and they need the public�s help. Area letter carriers are requesting that Houstonians donate nonperishable foods such as canned meat, tuna, peanut butter, soup, canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, rice and beans and other essential items. This year, 600,000 grocery bags will be inserted into the Wednesday, May 6 edition of the Houston Chronicle. Included on the bag will be information about how to participate. Additionally, Kroger will display posters in all area stores beginning April 22 informing shoppers of the food drive and encouraging their participation. Donations may also be made through the Houston Food Bank�s Red Barrel Program in area grocery stores. Shoppers can purchase nonperishable items and place them in the designated red barrels, which will be picked up by hunger relief agencies in that store�s neighborhood. All food placed in the red barrels from April 22 through May 9 will be recorded as NALC poundage. The NALC food drive is the largest one-day food drive in the nation, including over 10,000 cities and towns throughout all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam. For more information on the letter carriers� food drive, please contact the Houston chapter of the NALC at 713-641-2366. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
UIL suspends all activities; CFISD cancels field trips outside the district Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 29, 2009
The University Interscholastic League announced the suspension of all activities until May 11 in order to take every possible precaution to prevent the further spreading of the Swine Flu. In keeping with this intent to take measures to limit exposure, the district is canceling all field trips outside Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. Dr. David Anthony, superintendent of schools, stated, "We are following guidelines from the HCPHES and other government agencies to protect the health of our students and staff members. The UIL announcement was at the direction of the Texas Department of State Health Services. CFISD supports this decision to suspend UIL activities and will follow suit by canceling field trips outside CFISD." For more information, contact the Communication Office at 281-807-8939. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Public hearing at Labay MS on schedule for April 30 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 29, 2009
Due to flooding throughout Cypress-Fairbanks ISD causing school and facility cancellations on Tuesday, April 28, the public hearing for the 2009-2010 Budget and Board Goal-setting Workshop that was scheduled for Tuesday night at Francone Elementary School was canceled.
However, the second goal-setting public hearing is still on schedule for Thursday, April 30, 2009 at Labay Middle School (15435 Willow River Dr.) from 7 to 9 p.m.
At the public hearing, parents and patrons will receive information about the district�s budget as well as make recommendations about the district�s goals and priorities for the next school year.
For more information, please contact the Communication Office at 281-807-8939. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Beta Lambda Mu Gives Presentations and Earns International Honors Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 29, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair Beta Lambda Mu Chapter officers and advisors attended, presented and won several honors at the recent Phi Theta Kappa International Convention held in Grapevine, Texas. Beta Lambda Mu Chapter�s five officers and two advisors had the privilege presenting two educational forums at the convention to attendees from across the world. The first presentation was based on chapter use of the Phi Theta Kappa �Honors Satellite Series� lecture series as a part of scholarship activities which Beta Lambda Mu offered on campus under the current study topic �The Paradox of Affluence, Choices, Challenges and Consequences.� The second presentation was on the development of chapter officers, emphasizing scholarship, leadership, and service skills that are encouraged in the process of serving as an officer of the LSC-CyFair chapter. At the convention�s awards gala, the LSC-CyFair chapter was also honored with a Cordier Scholarship from the Gaylord Convention Center for active participation as educational forum presenters. The chapter was also recognized as a Five-Star Chapter, a Pinnacle Award winner for outstanding chapter membership services and as one of the top 100 chapters in Phi Theta Kappa International. Esther Robinson, who is co-advisor of the Beta Lambda Mu Chapter, received a Paragon Award for Outstanding New Advisors. In addition, Beta Lambda Mu Chapter�s past president Dehua Lea, who is currently a student at the University of St. Thomas, was recognized as a 2009 Coca-Cola National Finalist, which includes a $1,000 scholarship. Lea was also honored as a member of both the All-Texas Academic Team and the All-USA Academic Team. For information on the Beta Lambda Mu Chapter, contact Robinson at 281-290-3994. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
DEX Students and Advisor Earn International Recognition Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 29, 2009
Winning several awards at the recent Delta Epsilon Chi international conference are from left Donald Smith, DEX advisor Melinda Becker and Ronnie Maduzia.
Lone Star College-CyFair�s Delta Epsilon Chi (DEX) returned from the recent International Career Development Conference in Anaheim, California with several honors. LSC-CyFair students Donald Smith and Ronnie Maduzia competed in the Business-to-Business Marketing event and received top 10 finalist medals. Individual honors went to Smith, who received the Texas Leadership Award, and Melinda Becker, who earned the Texas Advisor of the Year Award. In addition, the chapter�s work with Bear Creek Assistance Ministries and Boys & Girls Country in Hockley was recognized with a community service award. �I�m very proud of our students, their representation of our school and their accomplishments which are further evidence of their passion for education, community service and leadership,� said Becker. DEX is an international association of Marketing, Management and Entrepreneur students. More than 1,500 students, representing the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada, participated in leadership workshops and competed in various business events. For information on the DEX chapter at LSC-CyFair, call Becker at 281-290-3284. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
CFISD Schools to reopen except for Cy Creek HS Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 28, 2009
CFISD students will be back in school tomorrow, Wednesday, April 29 after flooding and power outage closed schools on Tuesday. Cypress Creek High is the only school in the district that will remain closed on Wednesday due to damage sustained from the storm. TAKS tests for students will resume on Wednesday for students returning to school. Students will take tests on Wednesday that were originally scheduled for Tuesday. The revised schedule is posted on the district website at cfisd.net. However, the Cypress Creek High School TAKS schedule will be revised and posted on the campus website upon approval by the Texas Education Agency.
Students qualify for State Academic Meet Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 28, 2009
Eleven CFISD students and one team qualified for the UIL State Academic Meet after placing in the top three in 10 events at the Region II meet.
Cypress Woods High School will send eight representatives to state. Junior Sophia Nguyen was the district�s sole double state qualifier after placing first in Literary Criticism and second in Current Issues.
The following students qualified for state:
Event Student/ High School Place Current Issues Sophia Nguyen, Cypress Woods 2 Computer Applications Josh Kohlschmidt, Cypress Woods 1 Computer Science Nick Goodman, Cypress Woods 2 Nick Rohleder, Cypress Woods 3 Headline Writing Cindy Santana, Cypress Creek 2 Lincoln Douglas Debate Saif Kazim, Cypress Falls 1 Sara Meghji, Cypress Falls 2 Literary Criticism Sophia Nguyen, Cypress Woods 1 Cypress Woods Team 1 � Sophia Nguyen, Katherine Nguyen, Jennifer Livingstone and Matt Wheeler 1 News Writing Christine Nguyen, Cypress Creek 3 Poetry Interpretation Lario Albarran, Cypress Ridge 1 Prose Interpretation Brett Gray, Cypress Ridge 1 Social Studies Sairam Krishnan, Cypress Woods 1
Golfers complete 2009 season Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 28, 2009
CFISD boys and girls golfers wrapped up their seasons in the Region II-5A Championships in Waco last week.
In the girls� tournament, Cypress Woods High School placed sixth overall with a two-round score of 694. Freshman Kayli Quinton shot a 156 (78-78) to tie for the fourth-best score, missing a trip to the state tournament by one stroke. Rounding out the Wildcats� scoring were sophomore Emily Franco (85-86 � 171), junior Casey Gilbert (87-87 � 174), freshman Courtney Zietsman (99-94 � 193) and sophomore Grace Duncan (102-101 � 203).
The Cy-Fair girls shot a 755 to place 10th. Scoring for the team were Jordan Sloane (84-87 � 171), Taylor Sloane (87-86 � 173), Lindsey Hardin (97-101 � 198), Kasey Pasquale (107-106 � 213) and Teryn Smith (109-118 �227).
Individual girls� medalists, sophomore Kirby Kramer of Langham Creek High School and junior Audrey Koncaba of Jersey Village High School, shot scores of 86-82 � 168 and 86-83 � 171, respectively.
In the boys� tournament, Cy-Fair shot a two-round score of 681 to place 10th. Bobcats senior Jordan Rumora led the team by posting the seventh-best score among the field, a 155 (77-78). Rumora was the third-place medalist and missed qualifying for state by just one stroke. Sophomore Jonathan Singleton (88-86 � 174), freshman Garrett Cook (87-88 � 175), junior Bryson Powers (86-94 � 180) and freshman Parker Rodgers (85-95 � 180) rounded out the team scoring.
Cypress Falls shot a two-round total of 689 to finish 11th. The Eagles� top golfer was junior Jack Swanson, who shot a 169 (82-87). Sophomore Matt McGlothlin (88-86 � 174), sophomore Jacob Pope (90-86 � 176), freshman Brandon Fick (82-88 � 170) and freshman Austin Dvorachek (90-92 � 182) all contributed to the total.
Individual boys� medalists, freshman Luke Sheehan and senior Hunter Palmer of Cypress Woods High School, finished the tournament with scores of 86-86 � 172 and 90-87 � 177, respectively.
Key Communicator Letter from CFISD Superintendent David Anthony Cy-Fair -Cypress Texas News Posted April 27, 2009
Dear Key Communicators:
The swine flu has garnered much attention from the media. Health professionals are monitoring this closely since a pandemic flu is caused by a new influenza virus of which there has been no previous exposure to people. To date, there are no reported cases of swine flu in Houston or in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. We have posted information about symptoms, preventative measures, and links to resources on the district website. Experts are telling us that the best protection is good hygiene and to do what mothers have taught their children to do for generations - wash your hands and keep them clean. Should you or your child exhibit symptoms of the flu use good judgment, stay home and consult your doctor. Our district is fortunate that we have hand sanitizer stations on each campus. This effort to help protect our students and staff from viruses such as these is the result of a donation made to our district by Cy-Fair Medical Center and Cigna. The hand sanitizer stations were installed at the beginning of this school year. Please know that we are monitoring the situation and will continue to update our website at cfisd.net as we receive information. If you need additional information, go to governmental agencies' websites such as Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services or the World Health Organization. I appreciate your help in keeping the community informed.
Sincerely, David Anthony
Students show improvement in TAKS Math scores Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 27, 2009
CFISD fifth- and eighth-grade students made significant gains from 2008 to 2009 in TAKS Math scores, of which preliminary results were released this week.
The results included all students tested on the English versions of TAKS and TAKS-Accommodated.
�We are pleased to see the growth in the percentage of students scoring commended performance along with the percentage of students meeting standard,� said Roy Garcia, associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction and school administration. �Of the 10 indicators measured in fifth- and eighth-grade TAKS Math, eight indicators increased while the other two indicators remained the same.
�We appreciate the focus and diligence that the teachers and staff have demonstrated and welcome the additional time to prepare students who will be taking the second TAKS Math administration.�
The following chart shows district results by grade level for the state accountability groups, broken down by the percentage of students that met standards and the percentage that were commended. Students who met standards were proficient in their tested area, while students who met commended standards had a near-perfect score.
Grade 5 Group % Met Standard % Commended 2008 2009 2008 2009 All 90 91 52 55 African American 81 82 31 36 Hispanic 88 89 40 43 White 95 96 66 69 Economically Disadvantaged 85 85 36 39
Grade 8 Group % Met Standard % Commended 2008 2009 2008 2009 All 80 82 26 28 African American 67 67 10 13 Hispanic 72 76 15 18 White 89 92 37 37 Economically Disadvantaged 69 72 13 16
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Receives Esteemed Tenet Circle of Excellence Award Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 27, 2009
Tenet Healthcare Corporation (NYSE: THC) recently announced that Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital in Houston has been named to the company�s 2009 Circle of Excellence. The Circle of Excellence honors Tenet hospitals that have achieved the highest levels of quality, service and operational performance. Key metrics used to evaluate the hospitals were patient, physician and employee satisfaction scores, clinical quality and financial performance. �The hard work, determination and commitment of the employees at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital made 2008 a great year for the hospital,� said Stephen L. Newman, M.D., Tenet�s chief operating officer. �I�m proud of everything that they�ve accomplished and am thrilled to honor them with Tenet�s Circle of Excellence Award.� Dr. Newman also recognized Cypress Fairbanks Chief Executive Officer Terry Wheeler, who marked his 20th anniversary with the company in 2008. Wheeler added, �It�s the dedication of our nurses, physicians and staff to providing high-quality care that earned Cypress Fairbanks this honor, and I can say without a doubt that is well deserved.� Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital has served the northwest Houston community since 1983, and is highly recognized for it clinical excellence in areas such as critical care, maternity services, pulmonary care, and cardiovascular and stroke care. To learn more about the hospital and its services, visit CyFairHospital.com. Tenet Healthcare Corporation, through its subsidiaries, owns and operates acute care hospitals and related ancillary health care businesses, which include ambulatory surgery centers and diagnostic imaging centers. Tenet�s hospitals and related health care facilities are committed to providing high quality care to patients in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit tenethealth.com.
The Miss Firecracker Contest set to open at The Texas Repertory Theatre Co. Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 27, 2009
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co., NW Houston�s own critically-acclaimed professional theatre, ends its 2008-2009 Season with a heartwarming comedy by the Pulitzer-prize winning Southern author Beth Henley, The Miss Firecracker Contest. Best known for her play �Crimes of the Heart�, for which she won the Pulitzer Prize, Beth Henley is a product of the theatre program at Dallas� Southern Methodist University, where she has endowed a program for budding playwrights. The Miss Firecracker Contest will preview on May 6 and 7, and celebrate its Gala Opening Night on May 8, with a scheduled run through May 24. The Miss Firecracker Contest is the hilarious and heartfelt account of one woman's quest for acceptability in a small southern town -- a quest that involves tap-dancing, self-improvement, roman candles, soul searching, and a hoop skirt that won't behave. When Carnelle Scott (known locally as �Miss Hot Tamale�) enters the local beauty pageant, poignant eccentricity and outright hilarity ensue. Although the play has been described as a �torrential downpour of humor� by The New York Times, at the heart of this crowd-pleasing comic play is the story of a family's struggle to accept each other, and the rather unconventional ways in which they go about it. The Texas Repertory Theatre Co. is located at 14243 Stuebner Airline Rd. in the new Northwoods Plaza. Performances are Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and 3 p.m. on Sunday afternoons. Tickets are $25-$45 and can be purchased by calling the Texas Rep box office at 281-583-7573. For more information, log onto texreptheatre.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Ever Thought About a New Career in Teaching? Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 24, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair will host an information session on two teaching programs Tuesdays May 5 and June 2 on the Barker Cypress campus. The session will start at 5 p.m. and will cover information on the Associate of Arts in Teaching/Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (AAT/BAIS) joint enrollment program, in which participants can earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching degree and a bachelor�s degree from the University of Houston-Downtown, while taking all classes on the LSC-CyFair campus. Then at 6 p.m., those who have a bachelor�s degree will learn how to enter the teaching profession through the Alternative Certification Program. Call 281-290-3957 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/tcp for information. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Woods tennis players qualify for state Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 24, 2009
The Cypress Woods High School mixed doubles team of Kourtney Howell and Gus Underwood was runner-up in the Region II-5A Tennis Championships in Waco this week, qualifying the pair for the State Championships on May 11-12 at the Penick-Allison Courts in Austin.
Howell and Underwood, both juniors, won three consecutive matches in straight sets before falling to Zach Martinez and Rachael Reed of The Woodlands, 6-4, 6-4 in the finals. They then defeated a team from Round Rock Stony Point, 6-1, 6-5 in the playback match to secure their spot at state.
�I�m proud of Kourtney and Gus. They�ve represented us well all year,� said Cypress Woods coach Tim Calhoun. �They were seeded second and had chances but missed out by a couple points here and there. They stepped up on that playback and dominated like they are capable of doing.�
Langham soccer player receives high honor Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 24, 2009
Langham Creek High School junior soccer player Jade George was named to the 2010 Adidas/Houston Dynamo Elite XI Team last week. It marked the second time in three years that a Lobos player received the honor, as Jacob Truitt made the team in 2007.
The honor is only given to 11 players in the entire greater Houston area, encompassing all of Region III and the three athletic districts from Houston in Region II.
�It is a great honor to be recognized as one of the top players in Houston by the Houston Dynamo and Adidas,� George said. �This honor would not be possible without the support of my outstanding teammates and the Langham Creek soccer program.�
George was recognized with the 10 other recipients during halftime of the Houston Dynamo�s match against the Colorado Rapids on Sunday, April 19.
George led Langham Creek in scoring and was named the District 15-5A Offensive MVP in 2009. He is currently an All-Region and All-State nominee.
Sampson Stackers collect medals at Worlds Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 23, 2009
The Sampson Chargers set a new world record in the Timed 3-6-3 Relay (18.80 seconds). Pictured with coach Bill St. Clair, team members are, from left to right, Garrett Martin, Benjamin He, Charles St. Clair and Emma Slabach.
Sampson Elementary School sport stackers represented CFISD well at the World Sport Stacking Association (WSSA) World Championships in Denver, Colo., claiming eight medals and one world record at the Denver Coliseum on April 18-19.
Sampson�s 8U Relay team, the Sampson Chargers, won gold medals in all three relay events, breaking the world record in the 3-6-3 Timed Relay event by more than two seconds with a time of 18.80. The Chargers� team members, Garrett Martin, Benjamin He, Charles St. Clair and Emma Slabach, all placed in the top 10 in the world in their individual events.
The 7U Relay team, the Sampson Sharks, won gold in all three relay events and team members Blake Weldon, Colby Brennan, Danica Gubic and Alejandro Montoya came in the top 10 in the world in their individual events. Gubic also won a silver medal in the Cycle event.
The 9/10 Relay team, the Sampson Blazers, won a bronze medal in the 3-6-3 Relay event. The team members are Austin Gallagher, Alex Niall, Nirav Lalsinghani and Christian Taulli. Niall also placed 10th in the world in the Cycle event.
�Stackers from all over the world posted some of the fastest times the sport has ever seen. We are so proud of how our students stacked up against competitors from all over the world, and we�re even more proud of how they conducted themselves in the public eye,� said Charlotte French, Sampson P.E. teacher and stacking coach.
LSC-CyFair Basketball Player�s Hard Work Pays Off Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 23, 2009 With most basketball games on the road, no campus gym for home games or practice and player turnover between fall and spring semesters, coaching the Lone Star College-CyFair Fighting Ducks is a challenge. But players like Triston Grounds make it all worthwhile for Coach Larry Norris. While earning an associate�s of arts at LSC-CyFair, Grounds was making outstanding contributions to the Fighting Ducks since Fall 2007. Due to his hard work on and off the court, he will be transferring to the University of St. Thomas on scholarship this fall to pursue a business administration degree and play on the inaugural basketball team. �I noticed from the very beginning that Triston was a very hard worker in the classroom as well as on the basketball court,� said Norris. �He is great scorer, he can shoot with great range and can score going to the basket. Triston is the most versatile player that I have had the pleasure to coach. I am looking for big things from him at St. Thomas.� Grounds gives credit to Norris, who he said was there for him academically and to help find a place to play basketball. �He cares about the students and it shows,� said Grounds. �He really puts his heart into it.� While on the road just having fun playing basketball in Dallas, San Antonio, Uvalde and Port Arthur, the team also took in some historical and civil rights sites, such as the Alamo. Try outs for the 2009-2010 basketball season will be in August. Call Norris for information at 281-290-3926. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagaizne.com.
A.L.L. Celebrates with Annual Meeting and Ice Cream Social Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 23, 2009
The Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) at Lone Star College-CyFair welcomes visitors, members and instructors to the annual meeting and ice cream social Thursday, May 21. �We will be celebrating our efforts of this past year such as our exciting growth in membership along with all the cool, fun things we had the opportunity to learn and do throughout the year,� said Peggy Presnell, A.L.L. board chair. In addition to visiting old friends and making new ones, there will be door prizes and musical entertainment featuring LSC-CyFair students. This event will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.in the Conference Center on the Barker Cypress campus, 9191 Barker Cypress. Reservations are due May 15 Miriam Whitsitt at 281-290-5273. For information on A.L.L., go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/ALL. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Community Focus on Health Day May 5 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 23, 2009
Join the Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) at Lone Star College-CyFair for a come-and-go Focus on Health Day set May 5. �Physicians, registered pharmacists and diabetes educators will discuss some of the latest information about diseases, medical conditions and treatments,� said Peggy Presnell, A.L.L. board chair. �Everyone is encouraged to attend all of the sessions; however, you may choose to attend only those of interest to you.� Topics include arthritis, diabetes mellitus, joint replacement, prescription medications and interactions and the implications and impact of dreams on health. Dr. Carol Englund, Dr. Alain Elbaz, Dr. Eric Bell, Roberta Anding, professor, Charles McClure, pharmacist and Leslie Pafford, health educator will be the guest speakers. The free day-long event will be held at The Heritage Lodge at Towne Lake from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with lunch served at noon. While no reservations are needed for the discussion sessions, reservations are required for the lunch, compliments of the Friendswood Development Corporation. Lunch reservations are due by 6 p.m. May 1 via e-mail at pegpresnell@gmail.com. The Heritage Lodge at Towne Lake is located at 19201 North Canyon Lake Springs Drive, off West Road and west of LSC-CyFair, which is located at 9191 Barker Cypress. For information on A.L.L., go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/ALL. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Postma students promote eco-friendly lunch trays Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 22, 2009
In honor of Earth Day, fifth-grade students at Postma Elementary School are helping promote a tangible CFISD effort in environmental friendliness.
Beginning on April 22, the students in Mariah Nomura�s Language Arts and Social Studies classes began instructing fellow Postma classmates how to properly dispose of the district�s newly implemented biodegradable lunch trays.
Postma and Danish elementary schools are pilot schools for the CFISD Food Service Department�s two new types of eco-savvy lunch trays�Dispoz-o Enviroware, made of Envirofoam, and Oliver Trays, made of paper pulp, respectively. Food Service director Matt Morgan anticipates that the biodegradable trays will replace the current Styrofoam and No. 1 plastic trays at every school campus by May 3.
Postma�s involvement began with a persuasive writing assignment in which students discussed the amount of waste the Styrofoam trays were contributing to the environment. They soon developed a list of questions and sent it to principal Kim Freed, who in turn relayed the message to Morgan.
The students� proactive attitude coincided with the district�s plans, and Morgan visited Nomura�s class to tell them the good news.
�They were ready to fight to the bitter end to help change the atmosphere of the school into a greener one, but much to our surprise and delight, Mr. Morgan had already invested considerable time and effort into finding affordable biodegradable trays and food containers,� Nomura said.
On Wednesday, Nomura�s students gave a PowerPoint presentation to the rest of the school that explained how to use the trays. Rather than throwing them into the trash can where they will take up more volume, the trays will be stacked next to the cans and compressed before dumping them. They also helped students follow the new procedure in the cafeteria by monitoring trash and helping peers in the lunch line.
Calling it the �Stack �um to Flatten �um� campaign, Postma�s goal is to reduce the amount of trash that normally fills two trash dumpsters down to one. The students are also planning an experiment in which a Styrofoam and Envirofoam tray will be buried side-by-side and decomposition time will be tested.
�I love that this project brought the whole school together. I hope that the students discovered that one person, one class, can make a difference.�
Tennis Team and Special Olympics Athletes Serve Winning Smiles Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 22, 2009
Several members of the Lone Star College-CyFair�s Tennis Team recently brought smiles to the faces of Special Olympics athletes at the first LSC-Cy Fair Tennis Skills Classic co-hosted with Special Olympics Texas. Since the Fall 2008 semester, tennis team members have been training to become Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) Certified Tennis Coaches. This March, they put their training to use as they helped approximately 10 Special Olympics athletes ages 16 and older learn the basic skills of tennis. As a community service project, LSC-CyFair tennis player Andra Yanchenko suggested the team get involved with Special Olympics Texas, an organization where she has volunteered for more than a year. During the Fall Term team members began working with students from the College of Careers and Development for Exceptional Learners (CCDEL), a unique campus program designed to meet the needs of motivated developmentally disabled adults who wish to further their education beyond a high school level. In addition, some team members volunteered in Austin for the 2009 Spring SOTX Games as well as the 2009 Houston-based SOTX Match Point Event. Joining Yanchenko and Sebesta in the free Saturday morning tennis skills clinic were Clifford Ardrey, John Clark, Sam Holmes Marilyn Lynch, Ben Lynch, Thanh Nguyen, Trac Nguyen and Ryan Song. Serving as volunteer assistants and participants were CCDEL staff, Noemi Jenkins and Sharon Jones, and students Kayla McCormick, Gigi Gonzalez and Stephanie Buko. For information on SOTX, contact Klovenski at 713-290-0049 or rklovenski@sotx.org. For information on the LSC-CyFair Tennis Team, contact Sebesta at 281-290-3918. For information on LSC-CyFair, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu.
Make a Difference with Friends of the Library at LSC-CyFair Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 22, 2009
Readers and community members of all ages are reaping the benefits of behind-the-scenes efforts of the Friends of the Library at Lone Star College-CyFair. The Friends of the Library donated more than $11,000 for special library needs in 2008. Among some of the events sponsored were the children and teen summer reading programs, Cyfest, Prom Dress Closet and a volunteer appreciation lunch. Some monies covered equipment for teen and adult programs and a contribution for the Dr. Diane Troyer Scholarship Endowment. In addition, monies are earmarked for upcoming traveling exhibitions. In 2009, the Friends of the Library board recently established an annual Student Library Research Award. Friends of the Library members also volunteer to work six days a week 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Used Book Room (room 130), which has a wide selection of books and CDs. However, to maintain and increase various efforts and library support, the board�s focus this year is on membership growth. A spring semester kick off coffee party drew 34 new members, but more community members are needed and welcome. The Friends of the Library membership levels are only $5 for students, $10 for single and $25 for family and there are some incentives. �Please continue to donate your gently used books. Your generosity is appreciated,� said Nancy Flanakin, board president. �But become a member of the Friends of the Library and you�ll receive some nice rewards such as a book bag, 10% off items in the College Book Store and one free admission to a LSC-CyFair Center for the Arts play or musical of your choice each semester.� Joining Flanakin on the Friends of the Library board are volunteers Roxanne Beck, Beverly Choate, Lorraine Kram, Warren Miedke, Joan Everson, Genevieve Chism and George Detiveaux. For Friends of the Library membership or information, stop by the Friends Used Book Room, library customer service desk or online at (http://cyfairlibraryfriends.blogspot.com) Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Lyric Opera Announces Open Auditions Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 22, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair Lyric opera will hold open auditions for �The Marriage of Figaro� (Le Nozze Di Figaro) from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 13. The director Alex Qian will cast 11 roles including four Soprano, one Mezzo, two Tenor, one Baritone and three Bass singers. Actual performance dates are Nov. 5 through Nov. 8. Since 2003, LSC-CyFair�s Lyric Opera has held auditions for its programs. Those who are successfully cast are then invited to participate in the Opera/Musical production and a summer program of performance and study. The auditions are open to the community and will be held in the Main Stage Theatre, located in the Center for the Arts building on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. For information, contact Qian at 281-290-5985 or via e-mail at alexqian@lonestar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Woods programmers take second at state Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 21, 2009
The Cypress Woods High School computer science team placed second at the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) State High School Programming Contest, held at the University of Texas-Tyler on April 18.
The programming contest incorporated electronic submission of solutions using PC2 software. More than 70 teams attempted to solve 18 problems in three levels of difficultly within a two-hour time limit by writing, debugging and submitting their own computer programs for each problem.
Cypress Woods earned 96 of 96 possible points to tie for first place with Friendswood, Katy Seven Lakes and Fort Bend Clements, but lost the tiebreaker to Friendswood by taking more time to submit its solutions. Seven Lakes and Clements finished third and fourth, respectively.
Cypress Woods� team consists of seniors Austin Baker, Kevin Thrift and Bradlee Burrus.
�I thought they did great. The kids have worked hard all year and put forth the effort to do well in each competition,� said Stacey Armstrong, Cypress Woods computer science teacher.
Cypress Woods will put the cap on a successful competition season that included wins at the Seven Lakes, Waller and Needville UIL invitationals when it travels to Waco this weekend to compete in the UIL Region II Academic Competition at Baylor University.
Ogwumike receives PARADE All-America team honor Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 21, 2009
Cy-Fair High School junior girls basketball player Chiney Ogwumike was selected to the PARADE 2009 All-America High School Girls Basketball Team, released on Sunday, April 19.
The 6-foot-3 post player was named to the Second Team of four. She was one of only 40 athletes from the nation and six players from Texas to receive this high honor.
Ogwumike led District 15-5A in scoring with 20.8 points per game and was second in district rebounding with 11.2 per game. She was also second in steals with 3.3 a game. She led the Lady Bobcats to an undefeated district record as they advanced to the state semifinals.
The 33rd annual PARADE All-America High School Girls Basketball Team was selected by a group of coaches, scouts, recruiters and a battery of other professionals, and coordinated by fitness editor Dr. Michael O�Shea.
Students qualify for Texas Science Olympiad Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 21, 2009
Students from three high schools and two middle schools placed in the top five of their respective regional Science Olympiad tournaments to qualify for the 2009 Texas Science Olympiad, scheduled for April 24-25 at Texas A&M University.
Among high schools, Jersey Village placed second in the Gulf Coast Regional hosted by Lone Star College � Cy-Fair on April 4, while Cy-Fair placed third in the Blinn College Regional in Bryan on March 7 and Cypress Falls placed third in the UT-Austin Regional on Feb. 28.
Among middle schools, Spillane placed third and Hopper placed fifth and won the Spirit Award in the Gulf Coast Regional on April 4.
The following students will represent their schools at state:
Jersey Village High School (Sponsor � Daniel Kutsko)
� Julie Nguyen, Raj Kankaria, Holly Wu, Barret Jones, Samantha Fleitman, Adrian Rillon, Jessica Rentcome, Monica Neugebauer, Amanda Tran, Christopher Charles, Ryan Bridie, Taylor Hesketh, Oscar Nguyen, Sean Crain and Jennie Do.
Cy-Fair High School (Sponsor � John Oltremari)
� Diana Wu, Sukhmani Khehra, Trent Boyd, Chris Lin, Evan Vauk, Karuna Rupani, Srijana Regmi, Elizabeth Graf, Taher Jamali, Cathy Wang, Alex Bradley and Karina Ramirez.
Cypress Falls High School (Sponsor � Jennifer Wuellner)
� Abhas Mishra, Anthony Ly, Cathy Phan, Franco Gallestegui, Jose Tamez, John Fortner, Michelle Lai, Nhan Tran, Normal Ren, Perry Feng, Rachel Lewis, Randy Pok, Robert Kumar, Rohit Raghu and Sihe Jiang.
Spillane Middle School (Sponsor � James Horner)
� Jacob Berger, Lydia Berger, Erick Ericksen, Terrence Griffith, Taylor Hanath-Culp, Cres Kelly, Merrick Lucas, Clayton Marshall, Mason Parker, Joshua Pittman, Ryan Powers, Marina Vences and Johnathan Weiser.
Hopper Middle School (Sponsor � Lawrence Witt)
� Aloysius (AJ) Pereira, Derrick Simiyu, Shelby Beatty, Ashley Isles, Jacob Briggs, Hollie Ricard, Hallie Ricard, Sakina Haji, Diamond Wakim, Alexandrea Foster, Luis Zelaya, Collin Chance, Joseph Castillo, Dherlene Gutierrez, Patricia Coy, Davone Lawson and Justin Lawson.
CFISD 2009-2010 athletic physical dates announced Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 21, 2009
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD has scheduled its annual athletic physical examinations for the 2009-2010 school year at every CFISD high school.
All high school and middle school boys and girls enrolled in CFISD schools may attend. Examination cost will be $15 per student at the following sites:
� Cypress Creek High School: Friday, May 15, 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Make checks payable to Texas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. For more information, call athletic trainer Rob Phillips at 281-897-4232.
� Cy-Fair High School: Saturday, May 30, 9 to 10:30 a.m. for girls and 10:30 a.m. to noon for boys. Make checks payable to Dr. Scot Frost. For more information, call athletic trainer Arnold Thomas at 281-897-4671.
� Cypress Falls High School: Thursday, May 28, 5 to 7 p.m. Make checks payable to Dr. David McChesney. For more information, call athletic trainer Robert Maniscalco at 281-856-1054.
� Cypress Lakes High School: Tuesday, May 12, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cash or money order only. For more information, call trainer Alain Dorval at 281-856-1273.
� Cypress Ranch High School: Tuesday, May 26, 7 to 9 p.m. Make checks payable to Cypress Ranch Athletics. For more information, call athletic trainer Phillip Reed at 281-373-2530.
� Cypress Ridge High School: Monday, May 18, 4 to 7 p.m. Make checks payable to Dr. James Fogarty. For more information, call athletic trainer Emma Aceto at 281-807-8058.
� Cypress Springs High School: Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m. to noon. Cash or money order only. For more information, call athletic trainer Kim Faterkowski at 281-345-3137.
� Cypress Woods High School: Thursday, May 14, 6 to 9 p.m. Make checks payable to the Cy-Woods Booster Club. For more information, call athletic trainer David Wilkinson at 281-213-1881.
� Jersey Village High School: Saturday, May 9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Make checks payable to Dr. David Mack. For more information, call athletic trainer David Griffin at 713-896-3432.
� Langham Creek High School: Wednesday, May 27, 4 to 7 p.m. Make checks payable to Dr. James Fogarty. For more information, call athletic trainer Joe Newman at 281-463-5417.
Phone Recycling is Easy on Earth Day and Year Round Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 21, 2009
Houstonians can help preserve the Earth�s resources and support victims of domestic violence this Earth Day � and every day � by recycling their no-longer-used wireless phones, batteries and accessories through Verizon Wireless� HopeLine� phone recycling and refurbishing program. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling 1 million phones would save enough energy to power 185 U.S. households with electricity for one year, so every phone donated can make a difference. Verizon Wireless offers several options to donate your phone including a postage-paid phone donation envelope in welcome packages customers receive when purchasing or upgrading to new phones online. Customers can simply put their old phones, batteries and accessories in the envelope and put it in the mail. It�s quick and easy. Collection bins and information about cell phone recycling through HopeLine is available at all Communications Stores in the Houston area and across the country. Visit a store; drop your phone in the bin and go. You may also print a postage-paid label from the Verizon Wireless Web site at verizonwireless.com/hopelinemailinglabel, adhere it to a box or envelope and mail the phone to HopeLine. Seal and send. Other Ways to Be �Green� In addition to recycling an old wireless phone, mobile users in the Houston area can also make a difference this Earth Day by �going green� with some simple steps that will help conserve the Earth�s resources, including: � Use a power strip for your wireless phone or PDA chargers, and then make sure to switch it off when everything has been charged so you don�t use �phantom� energy. � Improve battery life and reduce the need for charging by changing the settings of your wireless phone or PDA's backlighting. � Save paper by signing up for Verizon Wireless� paperless Green Bill and eliminate the monthly bill in your mailbox. Register at www.verizonwireless.com/myverizon. � Save gas and commuting costs by using VZ NavigatorSM or use Mobile Broadband service to create a mobile office on-the-go. HopeLine accepts wireless phones and accessories in any condition from any manufacturer for reuse and recycling. All phones donated to HopeLine that can be refurbished are sold for reuse and those that are not salvageable are recycled in an environmentally sound way under a zero landfill policy. Proceeds from HopeLine are used to provide wireless phones to survivors of domestic violence who are rebuilding their lives or cash grants to local shelters and non-profit organizations that focus on domestic violence prevention and awareness. For additional information about HopeLine, visit verizonwireless.com/hopeline.
NAM�s Endowment Board dinner raises funds to ensure future of programs and services Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 17, 2009
Mark Lanier of The Lanier Law Firm stands beside NAM Endowment Fund Board Member Valerie vonBerg and NAM Endowment Fund President Pat Riley at the Northwest Assistance Ministries Endowment Board dinner, which raised more than $40,000 for NAM's programs and services.
The Northwest Assistance Ministries� (NAM) Endowment Board raised over $42,000 through this year�s Endowment Dinner, held April 2 at Champions Golf Club. More than 100 guests attended the third annual event, which helped raise funds to ensure the future of NAM�s programs and services through the NAM Endowment Fund. Major event donors included Valerie and John vonBerg, Sandra and Eddie Harrell, Citation Oil and Gas Corporation, Jackie and Pat Riley, Denise and Buddy Bolt, and Margaret and Charles Dunagan. �We are truly grateful to all those who turned out to support the NAM Endowment in its mission to ensure that NAM's programs and services will be here serving the community for years to come,� said Carole Little, President and CEO of NAM. �And we appreciate Mark Lanier for lending his time and talents to assist us in raising funds for the NAM Endowment. It's nice to know that even in a tough economy, NAM can count on the support from this extremely generous community.� The dinner featured fine food and a presentation by nationally renowned lawyer Mark Lanier. Lanier is the founder of The Lanier Law Firm, where he serves as the firm's lead litigation counsel. His long list of accolades confirms his position as one of the top trial lawyers in the United States. In 1998 and 2006, The National Law Journal (NLJ) recognized Lanier as one of nation's �Top 10 Trial Attorneys,� and in 2006, The NLJ designated him as one of the �100 Most Influential Lawyers in America.� Lanier entertained the audience with his intriguing courtroom stories, which were interlaced with humor and captivating anecdotes, and all related to the topic of charity. He was introduced by friend and NAM Endowment Fund Board member Valerie vonBerg. NAM Endowment Fund Board President Pat Riley welcomed the crowd and gave an overview of NAM�s services. He also encouraged guests to consider making a gift to NAM through the 2009 Annual Fund, the Emergency Preparedness Fund, or to make a planned gift to the NAM Endowment Fund. NAM helped more than 120,000 people in need last year through its wide range of social services. The NAM Endowment Fund is designed to ensure the future services of NAM by providing a permanent source of income from endowed funds. NAM is a nonprofit, multi-program social service agency that has served north and northwest Houston for more than 26 years. For more information about the NAM Endowment Fund or to make a gift, contact NAM�s Vice President of Fund Development Maria Magee at 281-885-4605. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Tennis athletes qualify for regionals Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 17, 2009
The Langham Creek High School boys and Cypress Falls High School girls tennis teams won the District 15-5A Tennis Championships, held April 6-8 at Cypress Woods High School.
Several individuals qualified for the Region II Tennis Championships, to be held April 20-23 at the Waco Tennis Center (900 Lake Shore Dr.).
Girls Qualifiers � Doubles: Amanda Barrington and Taylor Lynch, Cypress Falls High School, first place; and Amy Lundquist and Brooke Story, Cypress Ranch High School, second place. � Singles: Katie Budinsky, Cypress Falls, first place; and Gabby Janssen, Cy-Fair High School, second place.
Boys Qualifiers � Doubles: Ryan Goldwitz and Yoshi Murakami, Cypress Falls, first place; and Austin Harper and Jeff Lo, Langham Creek High School, second place. � Singles: Nick McCollin, Cy-Fair, first place; and Voigt Hansberger, Jersey Village High School, second place.
Mixed Qualifiers � Mixed Doubles: Kourtney Howell and Gus Underwood, Cypress Woods High School, first place; and Juno Ju and Hannah Witherspoon, Langham Creek, second place.
Golf teams, individuals qualify for regionals Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 17, 2009
The Cypress Falls High School boys and Cypress Woods High School girls golf teams each placed first at the District 15-5A golf tournament last week.
Cypress Falls won the boys� tournament with a two-day score of 819 at Cypress Lakes Golf Course. Golfers Jack Swanson (79-82�161), Matt McGlothlin (77-80�157), Jacob Pope (84-79�163), Brandon Fick (77-82�159) and Austin Dvorachek (87-92�179) will represent the Eagles at the Region II meet on April 20-22 at the Cottonwood Golf Course in Waco.
The Cy-Fair High School boys were runners-up and also qualified for regionals. Team members are Jordan Rumora, Garrett Cook, Johnathan Singleton, Bryson Powers and Keith Rodriguez.
Individual boys� medalists were Hunter Palmer (75-80�155) and Luke Sheehan (76-80�156) of Cypress Woods High School. The Cypress Woods girls won with a two-day score of 893 at Jersey Meadows Golf Course to qualify for regionals. Team members are Kayli Quinton (79-75�154), Emily Franco (85-82�167), Courtney Zietsman (95-94�189), Casey Gilbert (93-86�179) and Grace Duncan (101-103�204).
The Cy-Fair girls placed second, also qualifying for regionals. Team members are Jordan Sloan, Taylor Sloan, Kasey Pasquale, Lindsey Hardin and Teryn Smith.
Individual girls� medalists were Audrey Koncaba (82-80�162) of Jersey Village High School and Kirby Kramer (82-85�167) of Langham Creek High School.
�The Medium� On Stage April 30 � May 3 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 17, 2009
Don�t miss �The Medium� � a tragic story about a supernatural presence told in a compelling and entertaining lyric opera on stage April 30 through May 3 at Lone Star College-CyFair. In this opera, Madame Flora, with the help of her daughter Monica and mute servant Toby, tries to cheat clients through fraudulent s�ances. When unexplainable occurrences happen and she begins to hear voices, she unravels into a state of utter fear and is driven to insanity. �Glay Posch directs �The Medium� which is one of the best American opera�s by composer Gian Carlo Menotti,� said Alex Qian, music conductor. �Although its music is dissonant, eerie and morbid, songs like �Monica�s Waltz� and �The Black Swan� are extremely beautiful.� The preview night performance Thursday, April 30, opening night performance with a reception following the show Friday, May 1 and the Saturday, May 2 performance are all at 7:30 p.m. with a 3 p.m. matinee performance set Sunday, May 3. All performances will be held in the Main Stage Theatre in the Center for the Arts building at 9191 Barker Cypress. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students with valid id and $5 for all on preview night. Group discounts are available. Call 281-290-5201 for tickets and information or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/boxoffice. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
LSC-CyFair seeks donations for Prom Closet Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 17, 2009
When your prom night has become a special memory, help make next year�s prom special for teens in need. Donate your dress to replenish the Lone Star College-CyFair Library Prom Closet. Each year, the Prom Closet provides free prom dresses, shoes, jewelry, new makeup and accessories to teens in need from Cy-Fair Independent School District. In the past five years, the Prom Closet has expanded to also provide for teens from five additional school districts. Donations are accepted at the library customer service desk located on the LSC-CyFair campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. For information, contact Prom Closet organizers Nancy Flanakin, LSC-CyFair Friends of the Library president, at meaford8510@yahoo.com or LSC-CyFair Teen Librarian Elise Sheppard at elise.j.sheppard@lonestar.edu or 281-290-5248. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Add L.I.F.E. to Your Week with LSC-CyFair Free Programs Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 16, 2009
Sample international foods and Facebook as well as go back in time with a discussion on Japanese Americans and to experience a little Shakespearean opera at upcoming May workshops. Lone Star College-CyFair�s Learning, Inspiration, Fellowship, and Enrichment (L.I.F.E.) programs are free and held Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the library (Room 131 unless otherwise noted) at 9191 Barker Cypress. May 6 - Planning a Summer Buffet International Style - ESL students will show their entertaining flair with a delicious food tasting program. May 13 - Not Japanese, Not American - Using literature written by Japanese Americans, Professor Matt Turner will lead a discussion of the cultural impact of the internment of Japanese Americans after the attack at Pearl Harbor. May 20 - Opera to Go! Romeo and Juliet - Houston Grand Opera will present scenes from Gounod�s luscious Shakespearean opera in the Center for the Arts Black Box Theater (refreshments served). May 27 - Networking Facebook Style - Face it, everyone's on it. Are you? Learn more about Facebook, an online service that allows you to keep up with friends and family, upload an unlimited number of photos, share links and videos, and post your thoughts online. Dorrie Scott presides. Call the library at 281-290-3213 for L.I.F.E. program information or go online to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/library. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Beltway 8 Class A Office and Retail - Finalist for Landmark Award Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 16, 2009
Remington Square, a Class A, 200,000 square foot office and retail development located on Beltway 8 in Northwest Houston, was one of 3 finalist in both �Office� and �Green Building� project categories in the Houston Business Journal�s Landmark Awards. The property was developed by Caldwell Companies of Houston on behalf of owner, Sun Life Financial. �Remington was designed around our vision for creating a very unique office environment that provides an array of on-site services coupled with expansive outdoor meeting areas; ultimately, our goal is for companies to be more productive and profitable by locating at Remington,� Fred Caldwell, President and CEO of Caldwell Companies. �Being one of few LEED Silver certified developments in Houston was very important to us, because we know it�s important to our end users,� commented Ron Roberson, Executive Vice President for Caldwell Companies. �We will follow these same green building standards when we begin phase II of this remarkable project.� Recently completed and available for lease, Remington Square has coined the tagline �Redefining the Workplace� due to its unique approach and commitment to convenience, personal services and a work environment unparalleled in Northwest Houston. The property�s green space, water features, and outdoor dining and meeting areas create an atmosphere designed to maximize efficiency and productivity while giving businesses a work environment to enjoy. �In addition to green building, we felt it was important to offer businesses a �close to home� Class A office location that went far beyond the typical amenities offered by office parks,� said Caldwell. �Our entire business is centered on �building community� and Remington Square does this by offering a �work and stay� environment. We are really honored that our project has been recognized by the Houston Business Journal and the Houston business community.� You can learn more about Remington Square online at RemingtonSquare.com or by calling Mary Caldwell to schedule a personal tour at 713-664-6636. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
National Association of Letter Carriers, Kroger and Campbell Soup team up to Stamp Out Hunger Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 16, 2009
Saturday, May 9, Stamp Out Hunger!, the nation's largest single-day food drive, will provide the Houston area a unique opportunity to support the Houston Food Bank with the help of Kroger, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) and Campbell Soup Company.
Since the annual food drive�s inception in 1993, Stamp Out Hunger! has collected more than 909 million pounds of food. Houston and surrounding residents generously donated more than 400,000 lbs. of food to support the cause in 2008. Leading up to the food drive, letter carriers will deliver nearly 600,000 brown grocery bags to local residents to collect items for the campaign. This year, the campaign aims to collect 500,000 lbs. of food locally � and the public�s help is needed.
Houstonians can Stamp Out Hunger! by filling the campaign�s widely distributed brown grocery bags, or personal hand-held bags with non-perishable food, then placing them near their mailboxes Saturday, May 9, prior to the time of regular mail delivery for pick up by area letter carriers.
It�s advised that residents fill the bags with items like canned soup and vegetables, pasta, rice and cereal. All donations collected will be delivered to the Houston Food Bank, a member of Feeding America.
To learn more about the Stamp Out Hunger! effort in Houston community, local residents should ask their letter carriers, contact their local post offices or visit helpstampouthunger.com.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, more than 36.2 million Americans live in food insecure households, and approximately one in every three of these Americans is a child. Additionally, a recent survey conducted by Feeding America of their food bank members reported a 30 percent increase in requests for emergency food assistance. The most prominent contributors to increases in demand included rising cost of food, increasing unemployment and underemployment, the cost of fuel and mortgage/rent costs.
Food banks are notoriously bare during summer months, as most food drives are conducted around the holidays and those donated goods are distributed by the spring. Summer donations are even more critical since many children in need no longer have the benefit of their school lunch program.
Bogeys and Boots April 24 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 16, 2009
Please join us Friday, April 24 for a Hawaiian twist on our annual Bogeys and Boots Dinner and Auction Event. Come and enjoy a little island flare while watching the Aloha Spirit Company perform traditional Hula and Fire Knife dances. Don't miss our great silent and live auctions or the chance to win a fabulous raffle item! You need not be present to win or to bid! Call us for more details. This event supports the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation's scholarship program. CFEF has awarded over 3.5 million dollars to more than 850 CFISD graduates. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available for this fun night out!! Couple tickets $100, sponsorships from $1200. Doors will open at 7 p.m. so get your Hula on! We thank everyone for their continued support in our effort to make college education more accessible for the students in the Cy-Fair community. Please call 832-381-2333 or go to www.thecfef.org for more information. Click here to register online. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Students Sing and Dance Way to Top Prizes Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 15, 2009
Two vocalists and two dancers won the top prizes at the Fifth Annual Student Talent Show �Vegas Showcase� at Lone Star College-CyFair. The 2009 talent show First-place winner went to last year�s third-place winner, vocalist Mark Samson singing �Feeling Good.� Second-place honors went to DiVal, a high energy performance featuring Issac Diaz and Carmina Valdes dancing to �Latin Mix.� Taking third-place honors performing �Love� was vocalist Adrien Adams. The evening also featured Johnny Walker, a nationally-acclaimed comedian, as emcee with performances by comediam Kyle Winton, the LSC-CyFair Dance Team and a group dance to �Breathe Me.� As the votes were tallied, last year�s talent show winner Hans Stockenberger entertained a full house with a couple songs including his original �Close Your Eyes.� Holly Williams, Student Activities Program Manager, thanked all the staff and volunteers who made the event a success. She expressed a special thanks to judges Michele Comeaux, Gary Gingell and Kelly Ann Norton. For information on student activities, call Williams at 281-290-3270 and please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Living Singes Ministries sponsors Easter Egg Hunt Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 15, 2009
'Living Singes' Ministries, Inc. recently sponsored a Free Easter Egg Hunt and hot dog lunch to the children and their parents at the Andover Apartments on Cypress North Houston. This complex houses mostly single parents in the Cypress area. They wanted to share the joy of the Easter season to these bright young faces. But it made a terrific impact on the workers as well. "It was such a joy to give to everyone a little of our time." said one of the workers. It was so much fun.
The eggs, candy, hot dogs, chips and drinks were donated by local people and a few churches in our community. "This is the best thing anyone has done for our apartments" stated one of the 80 years old residents, who came out to watch the children and enjoy a hot dog with the group.
There were winners of the Easter Basket give-aways and one young lady won the five- foot blow-up Easter Bunny she named "Taco". What a surprise to her when her name was drawn. Baskets and bags were full of eggs and they were excited as they lined up to receive a hot dog and drink and pick their favorite chips. It was a wonderful time. There were hugs and waves as the team packed up to go home with hopes of doing this again next year.
'Living Singles' Ministries is a local Cypress based organization that assists single parents, single-agains, and widows in areas of interest or needs. Rev. Lonnie Campbell has adminstrated this ministry since 2001 to assist divorced singles after the devastation they often feel after the divorce. The organization offers DivorceCare classes and DivorceCare for Kids, along with assistance in many other areas. For more information you can contact the ministry at 281-890-7694. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Komen Houston Affiliate to hold 18th Annual Pink Ribbon Reception Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 15, 2009
The Houston Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure� will hold the 18th Annual Pink Ribbon Reception, Thursday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. at Macy�s Galleria at Hidalgo.
The event, sponsored by Macy�s and emceed by KHMX�s Michele Fisher, will feature the latest fashions as breast cancer survivors take to the catwalk. Attendees will also have a chance to vote for their favorite Diva, Dame or Dude of the evening. Each vote is $1 and will help support the fight to end breast cancer.
In addition, the Affiliate will also unveil its latest project, Photovoice. Developed by Caroline C. Wang of the University of Michigan and Mary Ann Burris, research associate of the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London, Photovoice combines photography with grassroots social action.
Komen Houston Affiliate participants were asked to capture and illustrate the barriers that face breast cancer patients by taking photographs and allowing the pictures to speak for themselves. By encapsulating the challenges as seen through their lens, Photovoice allows the community to gain a better understanding of the strides that still need to be made to eradicate breast cancer.
Admission is complimentary for current affiliate members. Become an Affiliate member online at www.komen-houston.org/PRR to attend. Membership levels start at $50. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Ranch Community Fellowship Breaks Ground Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 15, 2009
Ranch Community Fellowship will celebrate Ground-Break Sunday May 17 at 12:30 p.m., as they prepare to build their new Ministry Center on their 22 acre site at 17810 Mueschke Road in Cypress. (Four miles North of 290 and 3.5 miles South of 2920.) The Ministry Center will provide space for children�s ministry, nursery care, and seating for nearly 300 people per worship celebration. It is the first of several buildings tentatively planned on the site to accommodate the church�s growth and serve the community.
While breaking ground will be a part of the festivities, the afternoon will be more of a summer festival than a solemn service. Instead of a few dignitaries turning shovels of dirt, everyone is invited to bring a shovel to break ground. This is a church-wide effort to provide a ministry platform to serve the entire community. It�s only fitting that church and community members join together in a mass ground-breaking. A pot luck meal will be shared with the church providing the drinks and meat. Fun, recreational activities are planned for all ages.
Ranch Community Fellowship helps people connect with God, with each other, and in service to all by Reaching Up, Reaching In, and Reaching Out. You can learn more at www.ranchnet.org.
District celebrates Read Across America Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 14, 2009
CFISD administrators and Board members joined the National Education Association (NEA) in the annual Read Across America celebration last month by reading childrens books to various elementary school classes.
Most readers visited classrooms during the first week of March, corresponding with Dr. Seuss� birthday.
Dr. David Anthony, superintendent of schools, read to students at Danish and Kirk elementary schools. Board of Trustees members Dr. John Ogletree, Lida Woodul and Bob Covey read at Postma, Willbern and Holbrook elementary schools, respectively.
Other readers included Harold Rowe, associate superintendent for technology and school services, who read to students at Francone Elementary School; Dr. Cheryl Salyards, associate superintendent for governmental relations and communication, who read to students at Hairgrove Elementary School; Pam Wells, associate superintendent for facilities, planning and community relations, who read to students at Lamkin Elementary School; and Marney Collins-Sims, general counsel, who read to students at A. Robison Elementary School.
Four Win at LSC-CyFair�s Poetry Slam Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 14, 2009
An evening of original poetry in a coffee house setting drew more than 125 in attendance and 20 college, university and community performers vying for top prizes at Lone Star College-CyFair�s Spring Poetry Slam. This year�s first-place winner was Prairie View A&M student Thasia �Trademark� Madison. Taking second was community member Katrena �Blessed Empress� Reese. Tying for third place were Prairie View A&M student Malcolm �Redd� Bevel and LSC-CyFair adjunct English instructor Kausam Salam. For information on this event, contact Gail Marxhausen at gail.l.marxhausen@lonestar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Putting the Spotlight on the Volunteer Auxiliary at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 14, 2009
When you think of the theater, you probably think of actors and actresses. And when you think of a hospital, your first thoughts might be of doctors and nurses. But just like the stage hands and costume designers who work tirelessly backstage to help produce a play, the Auxiliary volunteers at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital fill roles behind the scenes that add special touches to each patient�s stay. �Our volunteers perform so many invaluable services each and every day, from lending a helping hand in the intensive care unit, pharmacy or emergency room, to designing craft projects during the holidays,� says Nadia Saqr, marketing manager and volunteer services liaison at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital. �They work closely with staff and contribute their personal time and talents to serve the health care needs of our community. Since the hospital open in 1983, they have provided an astonishing nearly 329,000 hours of service.� Hospital volunteers work in many departments and have various responsibilities, such as escorting patients, performing clerical duties, or making caps for babies born in the hospital�s Women�s Center. Proceeds from the hospital gift shop, which is operated by the Auxiliary, have provided more than $45,000 in scholarships over the past five years for area high school students interested in pursuing careers in health care. Students age 14 and older can volunteer at the hospital through the Auxiliary�s Junior Volunteer Program, which offers young people an opportunity to learn more about health care professions as well as the importance of volunteering. �People volunteer for many different reasons. Some want to learn new skills or strengthen old ones, while others want to meet new people and explore career opportunities in health care,� says Saqr. �We encourage anyone interested in communicating with people, building their social network, sharing interests, and extending a helping hand to become a volunteer. We are fortunate to have nearly 120 men and women, ranging in age from teenager to senior citizen, volunteering at our hospital.� For more information on becoming a volunteer at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital, call 281-897-3186 or visit CyFairHospital.com/Volunteer. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
50,000 expected at Salute to Law Enforcement at Willowbrook Mall Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 14, 2009
The largest known single law enforcement exhibition that�s open to the public is set to start at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 2 at Willowbrook Mall. The Sprint Salute to Law Enforcement, presented by Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce,
Spring ISD Police Department and Willowbrook Mall, will bring together more than 100 law enforcement agencies and officers who will stand ready to greet the public, displaying a unified law enforcement effort and event for citizens. More than 50,000 children and adults are expected to attend the free event.
The Salute will draw attention to National Police Week, which begins Monday, May 4, and it will provide additional exposure for law enforcement in greater Houston.
The Salute, held in on the west side of Willowbrook Mall, at FM 1960 and Texas 249, will include the following:
DNA Life Print. Parents can receive an FBI-certified 10-digit biometric fingerprint file, a DNA sample, a high resolution, full-color photograph and current statistical information at no charge.
More than 100 law enforcement agencies and officers
SWAT teams, Secret Service, beat officers, EMTs and more
50,000 visitors expected
Helicopter, ambulance, mobile command center
Officers on horseback, drug-sniffing dogs
Presentations and displays inside and out of Willowbrook Mall
The Salute is free to the public, but funds raised from sponsorships are contributed to the cost of the event, the scholarship fund and the support of the 100 Club, an organization that supports members of the local law enforcement community.
Again this year, the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce will award a scholarship to a 2009 graduating senior who will be pursuing a career in criminal justice. The scholarship will be based on financial need, current criminal justice education activities, student leadership and scholastic abilities.
The Salute begins with an opening ceremony that will include singing of �The Star Spangled Banner,� a performance by the St. Thomas Episcopal Bagpipe Ensemble and recitation of the names of local officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
For more information, visit salutetolawenforcement.org or contact Chief Alan Bragg, Spring ISD Police Department, 281-891-6901. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
HCST Announces Auditions for Disney High School Musical 2 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 13, 2009
Houston�s Center Stage Theater in collaboration with Lone Star College � CyFair have announced auditions for High School Musical 2 for May 8 and 9, with call backs scheduled for May 11th. Auditions and performances will be held at the Lone Star College � CyFair Center for the Arts, 9191 Barker Cypress Road. Audition times are 6-9 p.m. May 8 and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. May 9. Cast requirements call for high school aged students and male adults. College aged roles available. Performance dates are July 17-20 and July 24-26. Please visit houstonscenterstage.com for audition applications and for additional details. Disney High School Musical 2 is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International, NY, NY. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
National Volunteer Week set for April 19-25 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 10, 2009
This year, volunteers nationwide and within the Cy-Fair ISD community will be recognized for their outstanding contributions during the week of April 19-25.
Initiated by President Richard Nixon in 1974, National Volunteer Week was established to honor individuals who dedicate themselves to taking action and solving problems in their communities and schools by donating hours of time to help out wherever a need exists.
This year�s theme is �Celebrating People in Action,� which aims to encourage individuals and communities to discover the power of volunteering by making a difference and creating lasting social change.
CFISD Board members will also recognize district volunteers during the April 16 Board meeting.
�The service that our Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) provide to our schools is a real gift that�s immeasurable,� said Pam Scott, Partners In Education director. �We really do need to thank our volunteers for all they do to support our students and staff in helping meet our district goals. We view them as a part of the team. Hopefully we are doing our best to not just recognize them during National Volunteer Week, but all throughout the year.�
CFISD invites community members to join the volunteer initiative by signing up to help in any of the various volunteer opportunities available in CFISD. Those open opportunities include:
� Adopt-a-School/ Adopt-a-Class � Bus Buddies � Career/Job Opportunities � Classroom Speaker � Cypress-Fairbanks Educational Foundation (CFEF) � CFISD Livestock Show Association � District Programs � Education Support and In-kind Services � Instructional Partnerships � Mentoring � Professional Services � Technology � Tutoring � V.I.P.S. (Volunteers in Public Schools)
To read more details about each of the available opportunities to volunteer, visit the district website at www.cfisd.net, go to Departments and click on Partners in Education. Anyone interested in volunteering in a program can apply online by filling out a volunteer form. For more information, contact the PIE office at 281-894-3950. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Want to Win a Free Semester at Lone Star College-CyFair? Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 10, 2009
Want to go to college for free? Register and pay early for fall credit courses at Lone Star College-CyFair and earn a chance to win free tuition, IPOD Shuffle or free books. Fall semester students can win one free semester of tuition � just register and pay (or execute an installment payment plan) for fall credit courses before the close of business Monday, Aug. 3 and automatically be entered to win. The grand prize covers payment of tuition and fees up to $500 for credit classes at the Barker Cypress and Fairbanks campuses. Funds will be posted to the student�s account. Early registration also includes automatic entry for a chance to win an IPOD Shuffle or a $300 book voucher good at the LSC-CyFair or LSC-Fairbanks Center bookstore. All winners will be notified and announced by Aug.14. LSC-CyFair offers a variety of flexible class options such as weekend, evening and distance learning for fall classes which start Aug. 24. Payment plan, financial aid and scholarships are available. Register at the Barker Cypress campus, 9191 Barker Cypress or the Fairbanks Center location, 14955 Northwest Freeway, call 281-290-3200 or 832-782-5000 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this at CyFairMagazine.com.
Houston SPCA announces Animal Talk Luncheon Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 10, 2009
The Houston SPCA is proud to announce that the 2009 Animal Talk Luncheon will take place on Thursday, May 7 at Houston�s Premier Boutique Hotel ZaZa in the Museum District. This years� featured speaker is Texas Legend, Kinky Friedman. Kinky is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin whose eclectic career has encompassed a colorful array of genres from music to politics.
In true Kinky style, this luncheon will be a spontaneous presentation, as he will be unscripted and off the cuff. Kinky will share how his undying love and passion for animals lead him to open Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch near Kerrville, Texas. The Utopia ranch is a non-profit rescue, which takes in and cares for strays, abused, homeless animals.
For 85 years the Houston SPCA has been able to adopt more animals into responsible, permanent homes than all other area shelters combined. In 2008, we investigated 14,889 cases of animal cruelty, neglect and abuse and drove over 143,000 miles protecting the innocent. We can only continue our mission and be a beacon of hope to the animals with the commitment and support of the community.
Don�t miss your opportunity to hear the outrageous but always thought provoking, �Cowboy Philosopher� as he lends a hand to the voiceless. Individual tickets and sponsorship table tickets can be purchased online at houstonspca.org.
For more information or to request an interview please call 713.869.7722 ext. 138. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Jersey Village student to attend National Youth Leadership Forum Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 9, 2009
Jersey Village High School sophomore Michael McIlhenny was recently nominated to attend the National Youth Leadership Forum on National Security (NYLF/NS).
Outstanding students from across the country came together this spring in Washington D.C. to participate in the career development program where they gained insight into the inner workings of U.S. Diplomacy, Intelligence and National Security.
Through specialized simulations, the NYLF on National Security puts students in leadership roles where they are charged with developing the strategy that forms the foundation of U.S. national security.
During these simulations, McIlhenny was elected to the position of the Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff. Through his leadership, the international crisis that was brought to their attention was addressed and solved without conflict.
McIlhenny, a cadet 1st lieutenant in the Air Force Junior ROTC at Jersey Village, has also been selected to attend the prestigious Air Force Aerospace and Technology Honor Camp at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico this summer.
The purpose of the Aerospace and Technology Honors Camp is to introduce high-achieving high school cadets to scientific, technical and flight opportunities in the Air Force. Those selected have a minimum GPA of 3.0, are enrolled in college prep math and science courses and have demonstrated leadership potential. The 432 cadets selected from the 969 JROTC Units worldwide represent the top one-half percent of approximately 107,000 AFJROTC Cadets from high schools throughout the nation and overseas locations.
In addition to attending the AFJROTC Honors Camp this summer, McIlhenny is completing his training to become a licensed private pilot. After graduating, he plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy.
Open Your Heart and Home - Host an Exchange Student Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 9, 2009
If you have room in your hearts and room in your home, the SHARE! High School Exchange Program is seeking families in the Houston area to host exchange students from more than thirty different countries during the upcoming school year. The students will arrive in August 2009 and will stay with families to provide a bed, meals, as well as friendship, understanding, and a genuine desire to share the American way of life with a youngster from overseas. The exchange students, who are between the ages of 15 and 18, speak English, are covered by medical insurance, and have spending money for their personal expenses. �It may seem early to be making plans for the next school year,� says Rana Sanchez, the local program coordinator for the SHARE! Program. �However, there are already students who are eagerly awaiting news of their host family so they can begin writing to them. Now is the best time to select an exchange student to ensure there will be a place in the local high school.� The SHARE! High School Exchange Program is sponsored by Educational Resource Development Trust (ERDT), a non-profit organization. Families are able to review student applications and select the student they feel will best match their own interests. For more information, call Rana Sanchez at 281-408-9601 or email rana.sanchez@yahoo.com . Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Women Business Owners Organization Changes for a Rock Solid Future Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 9, 2009
Women Business Owners (WBO) recently made some drastic changes in their organization to bring back all their energies to the national core and refocus to their main mission.
WBO closed all of their local chapters and is creating new guidelines to enhance their benefits to their members. Using technology to their advantage and for their members' economic advantage, saving on travel, food and other normal business meeting expenses, providing more online classes and seminars for their members. This, in turn, will help to increase the members revenue and productivity through education, empowerment and enhancement in keeping with WBO's mission to help women business owners around the world.
Women Business Owners (WBO) is an international 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in February 2004. WBO provides education and support for more than 41,000 women business owners throughout the world with online and offline resources.
WBO offers members online networking chats, classes, seminars, and other events, and an annual offline convention in October, and more. WBO's mission is to help more women succeed in business.
WBO's President and Founder, Anna Campbell said, "We have been overwhelmed with the response from our members. Everyone is very excited about our reorganization and going back to our roots of providing education and empowerment. We will be bringing our members together in face-to-face events such as our WBO Red Carpet Strut Fundraiser in May for our Jr Apprentice US Program and the WBO National Business Convention in October. Giving them the opportunity to connect and learn through our virtual conference room and teleconference seminar calls saves them time and money while still providing them the opportunities they need to learn to enhance and grow their businesses." Visit http://www.womenbizowners.org for more information. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co.�s Fifth Season is Something to Cheer About Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April, 9, 2009
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co., NW Houston�s critically-acclaimed professional theatre, announces their 2009-2010 season of plays and musicals, giving Houston audiences truly Something to Cheer About! The new season is full of delights as broad audience appeal is carefully balanced with innovative artistic challenges for this company that has been called Houston�s �little theatre that can�. Opening the season in July will be the classic musical Chicago, a hilarious and wry look at justice and celebrity that is packed with thrilling dance and a hit score. October brings the sci-fi spoof musical Little Shop of Horrors to the stage, complete with a sparkling doo-wop score and a man-eating plant that sings! The Texas Repertory Theatre continues its tradition of offering classic Christmas fare for the entire family by bringing a fresh new adaptation of Miracle on 34th Street to holiday audiences. The Spring begins with a true classic and the greatest treatise on love ever penned, William Shakespeare�s beautiful Romeo & Juliet , in a lushly romantic new production that features The Texas Repertory Theatre�s outstanding company of actors. In the theatre�s tradition of fostering new works, March brings a Regional Premiere new comedy Kite�s Book: Tales of an 18th Century Hit Man. A Pirates-of-the Caribbean-meets-James Bond swashbuckler, the play follows our man Kite as he battles and quips his way through a rogue�s gallery of historical characters. Closing the season in May will be the hilarious farce comedy A Flea in Her Ear, one of the funniest plays ever written. Discounted season ticket packages are available now, with a variety of packages to fit every taste and budget. For more information, please call The Texas Repertory Theatre box office at 281-583-7573 or visit www.texreptheatre.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy-Fair Family Law Attorney Breaks Ground at New Location Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 8, 2009
The Law Office of Craig Haston, P.C. recently broke ground on its new office location here in Cy-Fair. The new office building is on Jones Road, near the Metropolitan Baptist Church and is expected to be completed by January 2010. Craig Haston, family law attorney and owner of the firm, is excited about the new location and about continuing to provide high quality family law services to the Cy-Fair area. After leaving the inner city in 2003 to serve clients in his community, the firm, which consists of two attorneys and four staff, has grown rapidly since its inception. Craig has been practicing 18 years in the Houston area, and since 2003 has been practicing here in the Cy-Fair area. Craig Haston is a litigator and trained mediator and is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. You can learn more about his firm and philosophy on the web at www.hastonlaw.com. Or call 281-890-1300. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Creek Key Club brings �Lilly�s Law� to Austin Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 8, 2009
The Cypress Creek High School Key Club recently traveled to the State Capitol with a plan to make sure people can feel protected from drunk drivers.
Eleven current and future Cypress Creek Key Club officers, led by government teacher and sponsor Jack Crook, will present a petition entitled �Lilly�s Law� to the Texas House of Representatives today.
In memory of Nicole �Lillyh� Lalime, a 13-year-old Bleyl Middle School student who was killed by a drunk driver on Dec. 16, 2008, the Key Club�s petition states that people who commit a fatal accident under the influence of alcohol be given a mandatory 15-year sentence and be charged with murder by depraved indifference.
The bill would supplement an existing bill proposed by District 7 State Sen. Dan Patrick, which requires those convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) to breathe into an ignition interrupt system attached to their vehicles.
�The bill that Sen. Patrick is proposing is preventive, and our bill completes it in that it has a stiff penalty for those convicted of a fatal DWI,� said Crook, whose wife, Barbara, is the principal at Bleyl. �If someone has three or four DWI convictions and has an ignition interrupt on his car, there�s no preventing him from driving to a 7-11sober, buying alcohol, driving home while drinking and killing someone.
�The way the law stands now, vehicular manslaughter is a 2- to 10-year sentence. You probably get sentenced for five years and get out in three on probation, and we feel like that�s a travesty.�
Crook said he was compelled to act after meeting the Lalime family at Texas Children�s Hospital on the night of Lillyh�s accident. He went home that night and began writing the petition.
�I knew I had to do something at the high school level because Lillyh would�ve been coming to Cypress Creek the following year,� he said.�With my wife�s permission I started the petition at Cy Creek.�
The Key Club has also supported the Lalime family in other ways. It raised more than $4,000 through a fund set up through the Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union.
Cypress Creek principal Jim Wells and Barbara Crook will also join the Key Club during their trip to the State Capitol.
Open Auditions for �Aladdin� Set April 15 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 8, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair Drama Department will hold open auditions for the summer children�s show �Aladdin� from 6 p.m. � 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 15. Aladdin and his friends, including the dancing monkey, Toodle-deToos, have an eye for adventure. There are spells, potions and reversals of fortune as Aladdin discovers the magic of the lamp and his love for the Princess � and finally outwits the crafty Zorah. This new version of a classic children�s tale is funny, fast-paced and based on William Glennon�s �Arabian Nights� tale. Director Ron Jones seeks adult actors for 15 roles in this summer children�s production, which will be on stage June 8 through June 20. The auditions are open to the community and will consist of readings from the script. Auditions will be held in the Main Stage Theatre, located in the Center for the Arts building on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. For additional information, contact Ron Jones at 281-290-3929 or Ronald.W.Jones@lonestar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
It's Time to Register for Discovery College Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 8, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair�s popular Discovery College summer camp for ages 6 to 15 begins registration Saturday, April 18. Registration will begin in person only, no faxes, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 18 at both LSC-CyFair and LSC-Fairbanks Center. The one-week summer sessions are fun and educational programs designed to develop skills in a friendly environment. Camps are offered Monday through Friday, June through August, at the LSC-CyFair, 9191 Barker Cypress and LSC-Fairbanks Center, 14955 Northwest Freeway. For LSC-CyFair camps only, call 832-482-1043 and for LSC-Fairbanks Center camps only, call 832-782-5038. For schedules and general information, go to cyfair.lonestar.edu/discoverycollege. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Celebrate Earth Day at the greenest place in town Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 7, 2009
Houston area families are invited to celebrate Earth Day, a free annual event at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, the greenest place in town, on Saturday, April 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, a lush 155-acre nature preserve, is one of the city�s greatest natural treasures. Located at 4501 Woodway Drive on the western edge of Memorial Park, just inside 610 Loop West, the Arboretum is home to more than 160 species of birds and 33 kinds of butterflies. The Earth Day celebration will include family-oriented activities. Kids can travel on a zip line, participate in a puzzle hike, make crafts with recycled materials and create paper bead bracelets. Families can listen to a live bluegrass band, taste organic food samples, enjoy a hayride and learn how to calculate their carbon footprint. There are opportunities to learn about earth-friendly products from local companies and organizations and find out about recycling opportunities in Houston. Solar car and animal kits will be available for sale in Nature Shop. For more information, visit www.houstonarboretum.org or call 713-681-8433. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cypress-Woodlands Junior Forum holds successful fund raising gala Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 4, 2009 Cypress Woodlands Junior Forum�s �Journey to Exciting Ports of Call� fund raising gala was held Saturday, March 28 at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel. The proceeds from the gala support community programs for senior citizens, people with disabilities, early childhood intervention and reading education, among many others. In addition, CWJF provides financial assistance in the form of grants and scholarships to community members and organizations. Please contact CWJF at 281-379-1391 or at cwjf@sbcglobal.net for information about CWJF and how to get involved. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Bridgeland Welcomes Spring with Festive Outdoor Event Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 7, 2009
Hundreds recently helped usher in the new spring season at Bridgeland, attending a festive �Bring in the Spring� event that was packed full of nature-themed activities to celebrate the season.
Kite flying in Shores Park was a big hit, with dozens of colorful kites given away. Also popular was a flower planting station, a hula-hoop contest, sack races and a performance by the Houston Canine Frisbee Disc Club. Event-goers also enjoyed the release of more than 100 American Painted Lady butterflies.
A model home scavenger hunt added to the fun, with participants tasked with finding a box of toys hidden in each model home, collecting one of the toys and bringing all the toys back to the Welcome Center tent to register for a $200 Visa gift card.
Other activities during the event, held March 28, included a whimsical parade around Shores Park, with residents riding or pulling non-motorized bikes, wagons, skateboards and other �vehicles� specially decorated for the occasion, and a presentation by the Katy Prairie Conservancy, �So You Too Can Be an Adventurer in the Wild West.� Catch-and-release fishing, a fly fishing demonstration, kayaking and canoeing showcased Bridgeland�s lakes.
�Outdoor family events such as �Bring in the Spring� are a regular part of the social calendar in Bridgeland,� said Peter Houghton, vice president, master-planned communities. �With lakes, parks, a disc golf course, trails and much more, there are many reasons for residents to get outside.�
Houston's Center Stage Theater Debuts in Cy-Fair Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 6, 2009
A new community theater, Houston�s Center Stage Theater (HCST) has debuted in NW Houston, according to Gary Kreitz, President. Gary and his wife, Loleda, along with Bob and Tam Rucoba co-founded HCST, and after 5 months of strategic planning and hard work, HCST is already the first theater in Houston in 2009 to present, live on stage, Disney Channel�s High School Musical 2 this summer. HCST is very proud to announce this is a co-production with Lone Star College - CyFair . �Our debut includes a host of classes and camps for children and young adults, ages 6 � 18 beginning this month�, said Kreitz. Kreitz said �HCST�s mission statement is strategically different than most community theaters in that it is our life-line to the beliefs and goals that berthed us, namely, that our culture makes an indelible impact on the lives of our children, our youth and families. We exist to make an impact on our culture through affordable, value positive & excellent education in the Arts, family-centered Arts enrichment programs and wholesome family entertainment. A Heart for the Arts is our slogan�. Kreitz added �another strategic area that will set HCST apart at the community theater level is the caliber of their educators�. �We have secured some of the strongest theater teaching talent in Houston to conduct & teach our classes and camps, in addition to putting together a production team for High School Musical 2 rarely experienced in NW Houston community theater�. �Our paradigm is totally different from what most people think about when they think of community theater.� �We are entering at a level most theaters only hope to aspire to�, said Kreitz. For more information on Houston�s Center Stage Theater, please visit www.houstonscenterstage.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
PDK Chalk Walk raises money for educators Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 6, 2009
The Texas Lone Star chapter of Phi Delta Kappa (PDK) International will host a local Chalk Walk�a national walk-a-thon for education�on Saturday, May 2 at Lone Star College-Tomball (30555 Tomball Pkwy.) from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
PDK, a non-profit organization that supports education through research, service and leadership, will kick off the event with a celebration of outstanding teachers as both students and educators recall those who have made a positive difference in their lives.
The approximate 3K walk serves to support great teachers of the past and present, while raising money to help cultivate great teachers for the future.
�PDK hopes to unite our community through the shared commitment of improving the educational experiences of our youth by advocating for the recognition, support and development of great teachers,� said PDK chapter president Christie McWilliams, an English teacher at Cy-Fair High School. �The Chalk Walk serves to support outstanding teachers of the past and present, while raising money to help cultivate great teachers for the future. We want our children to have teachers who are passionate about teaching and who will have a lasting positive impact on our children.�
For more information on the Chalk Walk, please visit www.pdkchalkwalk.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com. Hamilton MS students to participate in EcoBot Challenge Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 6, 2009
Four teams of Hamilton Middle School students recently participated in the All-Earth EcoBot Challenge on Saturday, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston.
Hamilton�s teams, listed below, were beneficiaries of four Lego Mindstorms Education NXT Robot Kits through a grant from the Education Foundation of Harris County and a generous contribution from the MIT Club of South Texas:
� EcoNerds: eighth-grade students Kevin Patterson, Ethan Kovar and Andrew Tang; � RoboTigers: sixth-grade students Bradley Smith, Ryan Steppe and Diana Xu; � Recycl-Bots: sixth-grade students Ashlynn Peters, Nick Kramr, Trevor McCants and Christina Moreno; and � Flying Purple Pollution Eaters: sixth-grade students Karl Lawson, Chris Ullrich, Austin Shay and Tyler Sorrels.
Hamilton�s teams will be among 80 teams featuring students in grades 5-8 from the greater Houston area using their programmed robots to complete a series of activities that demonstrate recycling, reuse, reducing waste and environmental responsibility.
In Part 1 of the competition, students design their robots and programmed them to perform a set of specific tasks in a 90-second time period. There are four identical heats and the field is narrowed to 16 teams for the final round. The winners will participate in an exposition challenge round with a visiting robotics team from Japan. Hamilton students met before and after school to complete their tasks.
Part 2 of the competition involves teams researching and marketing a robot of their own creation that has something to do with the environment. Participants will be interviewed by a panel of experts and scored accordingly. They must name their product, create a slogan, decide who they will market it to and perform a cost analysis.
The Flying Purple Pollution Eaters, for example invented the �Inflator,� a robotic device that automatically rolls up to a car�s tires, checks tire pressure and fills tires accordingly, in order to save gas while driving.
The event is hosted by the Education Foundation of Harris County, in partnership with the City of Houston CEFD, the Houston Galveston Area Council and the Harris County Department of Education.
Transfer applications due by June 8 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas Posted April 6, 2009
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is accepting open transfer applications for select schools beginning April 1. The transfer applications must be completed and turned in to the Office of Student Admissions, Attendance and Transfers (22602 Hempstead Hwy.) by Monday, June 8. The applications are available at the office, all schools or online at http://www.cfisd.net/dept2/studentservices/admissions.htm.
The following schools are open for incoming transfers:
Schools Open for Transfers Number of Transfers Allowed Elementary Schools Kirk 50 Swenke 100 Middle Schools Dean 30 Smith 100 Thornton 50 Watkins 30 High Schools Cy-Fair (9th � 12th) 50 Cypress Lakes (11th only) 50 Cypress Ranch (9th � 11th) 300
High school transfers are subject to UIL regulations and district policies governing participation in extracurricular activities. Transfer students in grades 9-12 are generally ineligible to participate in varsity activities for one year from the first day of attendance at the requested campus. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
LSC-CyFair Accounting Students Assist Residents with Taxes Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 3, 2009
Future CPAs are putting some of their accounting and number-crunching skills to use as they assist residents with tax preparation this spring at Lone Star College-CyFair. In addition to AARP Tax-Aide volunteers providing free tax help in the library, Gina Sprowl�s accounting students are also offering a helping hand as part of a Service Learning project. Service Learning is a teaching method that combines academic instruction with community service that addresses area needs as well as develops student skills, a sense of civic responsibility and commitment to the surrounding community. In addition to earning a Service Learning designation for their college transcripts, these students get hands-on, real world experience. Among Sprowl�s student volunteers are Ana Menjivar, Cinthya Bernhardt, Beatriz Lavalle, Phuong Lam and Kiley Brown. These future accountants and licensed CPAs are earning an associate�s degree, working toward a bachelor�s degree or pursuing an Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) at LSC-CyFair. Students interested in becoming a CPA who already have a bachelor�s, can be ready to sit for the CPA exam through the ATC program in approximately a year and half at LSC-CyFair, LSC- North Harris or LSC-Montgomery. These students said this Service Learning project provides them opportunities to go beyond role-playing in class, apply what they�ve learned and actually help people with their taxes as well as to confirm if this field is really what they want to do or �to get their foot in the door.� This project also benefits Cy-Fair area residents. Marilyn Guertin, Isis Loucel and Pablo Castro, who returned again this year for assistance, said the students were helpful and did a good job. Other students participating in this project are: Victoria Baldwin, Jessica Bategeki, Robert Burns, Vinnecia Lott, Jhody Marroquin, Christopher Miller, Katarzyna Wilk and Connor Owens. Sprowl�s students are assisting residents Mondays, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., while AARP Tax-Aide volunteers are available noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday and Thursdays through April 15. For information on free tax assistance at LSC-CyFair, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/library. For information on accounting and the ATC program, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/accounting. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Law enforcement is looking for a few good sponsors Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 3, 2009
From donations to sponsor food and beverages, golf carts, banners and more, The Salute to Law Enforcement is reaching out, asking area businesses to join in the 15th annual event which is the largest, single-known law enforcement exhibition open to the public. The 2009 Salute, presented by Sprint, Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce, Spring ISD Police Department and Willowbrook Mall, will be held Saturday, May 2 at Willowbrook Mall and estimates are that approximately 50,000 individuals will attend the free, one-day event.
�This Salute is an excellent way to highlight the law enforcement individuals and agencies that play such vital roles in our communities,� says Walt Plonski, general manager of the shopping center. �With the variety of the 100 different law enforcement agencies, officers, exhibits and more who participate in the Salute, the event helps to educate citizens, adults and children. Visitors enjoy meeting the officers and seeing all the equipment such as helicopters, the presidential limousine, motorbikes and animals. Parents are able to get free DNA Life Prints of their children. Willowbrook Mall is proud to help support the Salute and we encourage other businesses and companies to pitch in and help, too.�
For more information about sponsor opportunities, visit www.salutetolawenforcement.org or call 281-373-1390. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Dirt Flies in Bridgeland for HelpingaHero.org Home Program Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 3, 2009
Crowds gathered in the Bridgeland community recently to help break ground on the tenth home to be built for a wounded war veteran through the HelpingaHero.org Home Program.
Bridgeland has donated a cul-de-sac homesite overlooking a lake for the project and Perry Homes is building the home. This is the seventh home Perry has constructed at a substantial discount for the HelpingaHero.org Home Program. The home is slated for completion this summer.
The home is being built for Purple Heart recipient Capt. Daniel Moran, USMC (Ret.), his wife, Teal, and their two children, Trey, 4, and Macy, 2. Having joined the Marines in 2004, Moran was in his second tour of duty in Ramadi, Iraq when his platoon was ambushed. Three members of his platoon were killed instantly and Moran sustained third-degree burns over 50 percent of his body. He also suffered a compression fracture to his T-8 vertebrae, herniated discs, a mild traumatic brain injury and minor inhalation injury resulting in complex obstructed sleep apnea. He was rushed to a hospital in Balad, Iraq, and then transferred to Landstuhl, Germany. After his condition stabilized, Moran was transferred to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio while still in a coma. He spent two and a half years in the burn unit recovering from his injuries and has undergone more than 30 surgeries. The groundbreaking ceremony was held the day before his final surgery, set for March 31.
Attending the event were Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Austin, whose congressional district stretches from Austin to the northwest suburbs of Houston; Peter Houghton, Bridgeland�s vice president, master-planned communities; Stephen Najvar, Perry Homes� division president; active-duty service men; and several other HelpingaHero.org home recipients. Representing Houston Rotary District 5890, which raised the money for the home, was retired Houston Astro Craig Biggio.
�For all the civil liberties we have today as Americans, we owe it all to our service men and women and the sacrifices they are making for us to live the life we live,� Biggio said. �It is a huge honor for me to be part of this effort.�
�This means the world to me,� Moran said. �I thank the home program for making an investment in me and my family.�
The home will have many accommodations for Moran�s physical condition, including enhanced temperature control measures such as tinted windows and a high-efficiency air and heating system since Moran is no longer able to control his body temperature. Plus, an extended covered porch will allow him to spend time outdoors with his children without exposure to direct sunlight.
�This particular homesite was selected to allow the least amount of direct sunlight into the home,� said Houghton. �We are thrilled to be able to give something back to a man who has given so very much for his country.�
The Bridgeland home is one of 15 the HelpingaHero.org Home Program hopes to build in the Houston area for disabled veterans. Nine homes have been completed to date. Homes are specially adapted to accommodate a recipient�s specific injuries.
�Our goal in providing homes for our wounded heroes is to equip them to transition successfully into their local community,� said Meredith Iler, national chairman of the program. �We are honored to give back to someone who served so valiantly, and will continue to reach out to our other wounded heroes and assist them in their journey to recovery.�
HelpingaHero.org is expanding its home program this year to also build homes in Arizona, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Tennessee, Florida and California.
Registration now open for NAM�s affordable computer and language classes Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 3, 2009
The Rotary Learning Center at Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) is currently registering students for its spring language and computer classes. The six-week spring session will run April 20�May 28, and students may register by phone weekdays from 9 a.m.-noon through April 20. The fee for each course is $25, and all classes will be held at NAM�s Rotary Learning Center (15555 Kuykendahl, 4th floor). Two computer courses will be offered: Introduction to Computers � Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10-11:30 a.m. Students will be introduced to computer terminology and keyboarding and have a brief introduction to Microsoft Word that will enhance their understanding of computers and aid them in future employment environments. Intermediate Computer Basics � Wednesdays from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Students will gain hands-on experience with intermediate features of Microsoft Word, e-mail, Internet, and Microsoft PowerPoint. Students interested in learning English or Spanish are encouraged to sign up for the self-paced Rosetta Stone software classes. These courses are available Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. The Rosetta Stone software enables students to work at their own level and at their own pace. If students miss a session, they can continue from where they left off. The course uses audio and visual approaches illustrating lessons with pictures, words and audio of native speakers. A key software feature enables students to pronounce words, listen to their pronunciation and compare their pronunciation to a native speaker via the computer. To register, students should call Bambi Alderson-Shields at NAM�s Rotary Learning Center, 281-885-4626. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Bring Your Resume to this Free Community Job Fair Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 2, 2009
Bring your resume to the free community job fair in the Cy-Fair area from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 29 at The Berry Center. This free job fair offers something for everyone with more than 60 companies participating and recruiting to fill positions. Free resume critiques and workshops will be provided throughout the event, as well as information regarding Lone Star College System�s free job posting web site www.collegecentral.com/lonestar. Sponsoring the community job fair are Cy-Fair Independent School District, Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce, Job Sparx, Lone Star College System and LSC-CyFair. CFISD�s Berry Center is located at 8877 Barker Cypress Road at West Road, three miles south of U.S. Highway 290. For a complete list of employers who will be participating in the job fair, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/jobfair. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Beta Lambda Mu Earns Top Honors at Regional Convention Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 2, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair�s Beta Lambda Mu Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa are continuing their tradition of receiving numerous honors at the annual Texas Regional Convention of Phi Theta Kappa. This year, the LSC-CyFair chapter earned a Pinnacle Chapter Award for Outstanding Achievement; a Five-Star Chapter Award for outstanding achievement fulfilling the hallmarks of Phi Theta Kappa (Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Fellowship) at the highest level recognized by the international organization, and a Texas Top Chapter Award of Excellence (one of the top 15 chapters in the state.) Receiving the Horizon Award for Outstanding New Advisors was Idolina Hernandez, chapter co-advisor with Esther Robinson. In addition, the past president of the Beta Lambda Mu Chapter, Dehua Lea, was named a national finalist for the Coca Cola Scholarship Award as well as a member of the USA Today All-Texas Academic Team. �We are extremely proud of the positive impact Beta Lambda Mu members have had on our campus and in our community,� said Robinson. �Idolina and I are truly blessed to work with such outstanding student leaders.� Chapter officers and advisors will be travelling to the International Phi Theta Kappa Convention in Grapevine, Texas in April serving as Texas host representatives and guides, as well as making two presentations. Membership in Phi Theta Kappa is based primarily on academic achievement including having completed 12 semester hours (credit courses) and maintaining a 3.5 GPA. The organization offers a myriad of opportunities for scholarships, intellectual enrichment and personal development. LSC-CyFair celebrated the induction 176 new members last month. For information on Beta Lambda Mu, contact Robinson at 281-290-3994.
Wal-Mart recognizes Teachers of the Year Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 2, 2009
Six Cypress-Fairbanks ISD teachers who were selected as 2008 Wal-Mart Teachers of the Year were recognized at the 2009 Crystal Awards on March 6 at the Westin Galleria.
The event was presented by the Spring Branch Education Foundation and the Houston Chronicle, and underwritten by Wal-Mart.
The teachers were among 34 Wal-Mart Teachers of the Year from an eight-county region.
CFISD�s honorees are: Tamera Felder, Sheridan Elementary School; John James Jr., Dean Middle School; Jennifer Sorrells, Fiest Elementary School; Jennifer Buchert, Fiest Elementary School; Terri Cole, Hamilton Middle School; and Anne Donlevy, Post Elementary School.
Nationwide, more than 4,000 teachers are being honored by Wal-Mart�s Teacher of the Year program.
All local winning teachers have the opportunity to apply for state Teacher of the Year honors to receive a $10,000 grant for their schools. Each state winner is automatically entered into the national competition. The single national winner, who is recognized in the fall, will receive an additional $25,000 education grant for a total of $36,000 to his or her school.
Cy Creek girls advance to Region II soccer tournament Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 2, 2009
The Cypress Creek High School girls soccer team defeated Round Rock McNeil, 1-0, Tuesday in the Region II-5A quarterfinals to advance to this weekend�s regional tournament.
The Cougars will now face Lake Highlands in the regional semifinals at 1 p.m. on Friday at the Georgetown Athletic Complex (2275 N. Austin Ave.). The winner will face the winner between The Woodlands and Rowlett on Saturday at the same facility.
In boys� playoff soccer action, Cypress Falls High School ended its season with a 5-1 loss to The Woodlands on Tuesday in the Region II-5A quarterfinals. The Eagles finish their season as the fourth-place finishers in District 15-5A and regional quarter-finalists.
Applications due for Salute to Law Enforcement scholarship Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted April 2, 2009
All spring 2009 graduating seniors who are headed to college to pursue a college level program in criminal justice are invited to apply for the Chief Alan Bragg Salute to Law Enforcement Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded in celebration of the 15th Anniversary of the Salute to Law Enforcement, which is presented by Sprint, Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce, Spring ISD Police Department and Willowbrook Mall.
Considerations in awarding the scholarship include financial need, current participation in criminal justice activities, student leadership and scholastic ability. Students in all Houston-area school districts are eligible. Applications are due by Monday, April 20 and the scholarship winner will be announced Saturday, May 2 at the Salute event.
The 2009 Salute to Law Enforcement will be held on Saturday, May 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Willowbrook Mall. The annual event is the largest known gathering of law-enforcement agencies in the country and is expected to attract around 50,000 visitors. This year, the Salute is held the weekend before National Police Week, which begins on Monday, May 4, and will help to draw attention to the law enforcement profession.
For an application, visit www.salutetolawenforcement.org or call 281-373-1390. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Falls debaters successful at forensic competition Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 31, 2009
The Cypress Falls High School speech and debate team competed in the East Texas National Forensic League competition over spring break, with three students qualifying for the 2009 The Stars Fell on Alabama Nationals in Birmingham, Ala., June 14-19.
Seniors Saif Kazim and Sara Meghji qualified for nationals in Lincoln Douglas Debate, while Meghji also qualified for nationals in Extemporaneous Speaking. Junior Ali Khan earned an alternate position in Lincoln Douglas Debate.
The students will represent Cypress Falls at the UIL Academic Speech competition, scheduled for March 31 � April 1 at Cypress Ridge High School (7900 N. Eldridge Pkwy.).
Spring Student Art Exhibition Opens April 8 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 31, 2009
Don�t miss the Bosque Gallery�s Spring Student Art Exhibition set Wednesday, April 8 through Thursday, April 30. This end-of-semester exhibition featuring the work LSC-CyFair visual art students have completed in their classes, not only showcases the students� talents, but the breadth of LSC-CyFair�s art program as well. Meet the artists at an opening reception set from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 9. The Bosque Gallery is located in the Center for the Arts building on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. For gallery information, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/bosquegallery. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Free and reduced meal options available throughout school year Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Possted March 31, 2009
Due to the country�s current economic situation, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is reminding parents and guardians that applications for free or reduced meals from the district�s Food Service Department will be accepted throughout the 2008-2009 school year.
If a family has had a change in income or an increase in the number of people living in a household, the family may be eligible to receive free or reduced meals. Applicants can easily apply online at http://freeandreduced.cfisd.net throughout the school year, which conludes on June 3, 2009.
If approved, the family will benefit from the program for the remainder of the school year�generating a potential savings of up to $55 per month for each elementary school student and $58 per month for each secondary school student. The projected savings are based on a student currently receiving no benefits being approved for free meals and eating breakfast and lunch for 20 days out of the month.
Applications are also available at each school or at the Food Service office, located at 11355 Perry Road. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Student wins �Dear Mr. President� contest Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 31, 2009
Black Elementary School fifth-grade student Jessica Ullrich was selected as one of 200 winners nationwide for Scholastic Book Clubs� �Dear Mister President� contest, in which she submitted a one-page letter to President Barack Obama.
Ullrich�s letter was chosen from among 15,000 entries, which came from all over the country and spoke to a broad range of questions and concerns on the minds of America�s students. The winners, ranging from grades 2-6, were chosen based on clarity and originality of thought.
For winning, Ullrich will receive a 10-book Presidential Library from Scholastic Book Clubs.
The following is an excerpt from Ullrich�s letter:
�Your education ideas seem very well thought out and effective. My favorite idea of yours is to give teachers a higher salary. Being in fifth grade and getting to meet many elementary school teachers helped me understand how hard they work and how, without their support and effort we wouldn�t be what we are today.�
LSC-CyFair Students Meet the Governor at Community College Day Cy-Fair - Cypress. Texas News Posted March 30, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair students Angelee Brown and Jonathan Flores described Community College Day in Austin last month as �amazing� and �a creative and highly interactive learning experience.� In addition to tours of the Capitol and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, LSC-CyFair students visited with the staff of Sen. Dan Patrick and Rep. Bill Callegari and had the opportunity to meet Gov. Rick Perry. �When we were waiting for our tour to start, Gov. Rick Perry walked up and let us take pictures with him, which I thought was very kind,� said Brown, who stood right in front of him in the pictures. �And when we were through, he pat me on the back - that was awesome.� The Austin trip impacted the students in different ways. For Brown, who will transfer to St. Thomas University this fall to major in International Studies and minor in history and business, it strengthened her love of history. �My experience in Austin was amazing. I had so much fun walking around the Capitol building and taking pictures. It was all so beautiful,� she said. �To learn and see and touch it was profound, especially since it was the history of where I live, Texas.� For Flores, who plans to transfer and obtain a bachelor�s of science degree, then to become an officer in the Navy and eventually a military attorney, the trip helped him become more focused on his education and career plans. �This trip really showed that with motivated hard work and a committed attitude that anything is possible,� he said. �The men and women who walk in the hallways of Congress are great examples of that and I got hungrier to stay focused in obtaining my goals.� The Austin trip is an annual visit for LSC-CyFair Student Ambassadors, those in the Student Government Association and students in political science, government and history classes. �I think it was a valuable learning experience not only for our students to see how our state government functions on a daily basis, but just to be in a political atmosphere and see where representatives work each day on our behalf,� said Associate Professor of Political Science Heidi Jo Green. Chaperoning the LSC-CyFair students this year were Student Activities Director Holly Williams, Student Services Manager Paul Donaldson, Political Science Department Chair Dr. Jim Brown and English Professor Michael Fey.
METRO Outreach Director Gives Rail System Update Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 30, 2009
Join the Leadership North Houston Alumni Association (LNHA) for the April 20 community luncheon on METRO�s route expansion and rail line updates with Karen Marshall and a community service project benefitting Spring Assistance Ministries. Marshall is Director of Community Outreach in the Communications and Marketing Division for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO) Harris County. Marshall is currently focusing on the next phase of METRO�s expansion plans, Phase 3 implementation plan for METRO Solutions. Luncheon attendees can also participate in LNHA�s annual community service project, which is food drive benefitting Spring Assistance Ministries, hit hard by Hurricane Ike. Debbie McCabe will be at this luncheon to collect donations. The April 20 luncheon, open to the community, will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Greenspoint Club, 16925 Northchase Drive, Houston, TX, 77060. The cost is $28 payable by check or exact amount at the door. Make reservations for this lunch and learn by April 13 with Anita Furr at 832-813-6665 or via e-mail at anita.c.furr@LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Two teams proceed in soccer playoffs Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 30, 2009
The Cypress Falls High School boys and Cypress Creek High School girls soccer teams won their respective Region II-5A area round games on Friday and will advance to the regional quarterfinals on Tuesday.
The Cypress Falls boys defeated Klein, 2-1, on Friday. The Eagles will meet The Woodlands at 6 p.m. on Tuesday at The Woodlands High School (6101 Research Forest Dr.).
The Cypress Creek girls knocked off The Woodlands College Park, 2-1, on Friday. The Cougars will face Round Rock McNeil at 6 p.m. on Tuesday at Rankin Field in the Hohlt Park Athletic Complex (2425 N. Park St.) in Brenham.
In other playoff games, the Cypress Woods boys team ended its season with a 1-0 loss to The Woodlands. The Wildcats were District 15-5A co-champions and area playoff finalists.
The Cypress Woods girls wrapped up their season with a 3-0 defeat to The Woodlands. The Wildcats were district runners-up and area playoff finalists.
Free Financial Workshop Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 30, 2009
Free financial workshop coming to Houston on Tuesday, April 21. Women�s financial fitness day provided by Money Week Houston (www.moneyweekhouston.org) will encompass three broad topics about Credit and Debt Management, Investments and Wealth Building, and Retirement Planning. Our event will be held at University of Houston, Downtown Campus. One Main Street, Houston, TX 77002 in the The Wilhelmina Cullen Robertson Auditorium. Visit the college website for more information www.uhd.edu or call them directly at 713-221-8000. For parking information please call 713-221-8127. A sampling of our panelists include: Dayna Steele, LaTanya Flix, Alverna D. Austin, Irene Walker, Tammy Flemming, Elisea Frishberg, Rosalind Wilkins Haith, Nancy Granovsky, and Laury Adams. Our moderators includes Beverly Lyle, Starr Shephard, and Nola Lusk. Our Mistress of Ceremonies is Beverly Lyle. Beverly Beavers-Lyle is the Regional Administrator for the Women�s Bureau with the U. S. Department of Labor where she serves as the Field Operations Manager of the ten regional offices, as well as the Regional Administrator for Region VI, which includes Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and New Mexico. Our Key Note Speaker is Muriel Seibert. Muriel �Mickie� Siebert is the founder and president of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) brokerage firm that bears her name, Muriel Siebert & Co., Inc. She established the firm in 1967 when she became the first woman member of the NYSE and transformed it into a discount brokerage house on May 1, 1975, the first day that NYSE members were permitted to negotiate commissions. Muriel Siebert and Co. is the only woman-owned NYSE brokerage firm with a national presence. Ms. Siebert continues to oversee the firm�s day to day operations at its seven branches. The firm�s Siebert Brandford Shank & Co. municipal affiliate is ranked in the top 20 public finance firms in the country. Event will open at 8am for light refreshments and meeting with our speakers and partners. Our panels will run for 45 minutes starting at 9am, 10am, and 11am. Our Key Note Speaker will be from 12pm-12:30pm. This event is made possible in part by: Money Week Houston, University of Houston Downtown, A�LON Group, Inc., Women�s Bureau, US Department of Labor, Women Business Owners, Biz Radio, Women�s Council of HREA, The Women�s Resource of Greater Houston, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, Austin Properties Unlimited, Micro Enterprise Lending, Adams� Mediation & Financial Resource Center, and Houston Area Urban League. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Add L.I.F.E. to Your Week with LSC-CyFair Free Programs Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 27, 2009
Learn about Towne Lake, surviving a disaster, birds of prey, the immigrant experience and pi�atas at upcoming April workshops. Lone Star College-CyFair�s Learning, Inspiration, Fellowship, and Enrichment (L.I.F.E.) programs are free and held Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the library (Room 131 unless otherwise noted) at 9191 Barker Cypress. April 1 � New in the Neighborhood - Towne Lake�s Christine Draughn reveals exciting new neighbors to the north and the west of the Barker Cypress campus. April 8 � I will Survive (the Next Disaster!) � Do you have the knowledge to survive if modern technology is down? Learn how to build and use a portable survival bag (bug out bag) for your vehicle with Professor Jason Moulenbelt. April 15 � Birds of Prey on the Prairie - Discover the life and habitats of the raptor on campus with biology professor Jessica Armenta. April 22 � The Immigrant Experience Revealed - Explore the lives behind the news stories about immigrants with award-winning author Graciela Lim�n, who wrote �The River Flows North.� Book signing follows. April 29 � Pi�ata Creating - Get ready for Cinco de Mayo by creating an original pi�ata with Paula Gonzales to take home. Call the library at 281-290-3213 for L.I.F.E. program information or go online to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/library. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Want to Teach College Part-Time? Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 27, 2009
Ever thought about sharing your expertise with college students as a part-time instructor? Lone Star College-CyFair is hosting an adjunct faculty job fair April 16 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the Barker Cypress campus. Interested applicants should bring their resume and transcripts to this opportunity to visit with LSC-CyFair faculty and receive help with applying online. For a complete listing of adjunct positions, educational and submission requirements, apply online job.lonestar.edu. For information on the April 16 event, call 281-290-3911. LSC-CyFair is located at 9191 Barker Cypress and this event will be in the College Center, located on the north side of the campus. Go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu for information or directions. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Gold Dusters complete contest season Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 27, 2009
The Jersey Village High School Gold Dusters drill team wrapped up a successful 2009 contest season at the American Dance/Drill Team Alamo Dance Classic in San Antonio on March 7. The Gold Dusters received Division 1 ratings in both StarDust and Hip Hop, and brought home all 21 possible awards from the competition. Team Awards o Sweepstakes/Gussie Nell Davis Award; Judges Award � Modern, Kick, Novelty and Military; Best Overall Technique Award; Best Overall Presentation; Best Overall Precision; Best Overall Choreography; Best of the Best � top eight teams in the entire competition; Best in Class � first-place team in the large category; and Academic Champions � highest grade-point average in the large category. Officer Awards o Sweepstakes/Gussie Nell Davis Award; Judges Award � Modern, Kick, Novelty and Jazz; Best Overall Technique Award; Best Overall Presentation; Best Overall Precision; Best Overall Choreography and Best in Class. Division 1 soloists were Natalie Brown, Ni�Teria Clay, Katie Cooper, Paige Edwards (first runner-up), Hannah Franklin, Erica Gomez, Chelsea Green, Kayla Heine, Mary Hollenbeck, Julie Jackson, Ashley Landry (fourth runner-up), Madison Scott and Kimberly Sheeran. Kennisya Adams and Kiarra Adams won for Division 1 Duet.
AIDS Foundation Houston Makes The Fight Against HIV A Delicious Proposition Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 27, 2009
Thursday, April 30, thousands of Houstonians will be �Dining Out for Life� at many of Houston�s best restaurants for the annual fundraiser benefiting AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc. (AFH). Dozens of restaurants in the Houston area including t�afia, Little Bitty Burger Barn, Hungry�s Caf� & Bistro, Julia�s Bistro, Daily Review Caf�, the breakfast klub and Riva�s, as well as thousands of restaurants internationally, will donate one-third of their proceeds on this day to designated AIDS service organizations. Dine out at these restaurants and help fight HIV/AIDS in the Houston community. Fiesta Mart, Inc. is this year�s Houston corporate sponsor. �Dining Out for Life� has raised millions of dollars across the U.S. and Canada for AIDS service organizations. Get involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS! There is no cure for this disease and individuals continue to contract HIV at alarming rates. In Houston there is one new infection every eight hours, with teens and young adults (13-29 years of age) accounting for 35% of those new infections. All proceeds from this event will directly support Aids Foundation Houston�s local programs in HIV/AIDS prevention, education and testing, food assistance, housing and youth programs. Breakfast, lunch and dinner at participating restaurants on Thursday, April 30, for the entire operating hours of each restaurant Riva�s restaurant (donating 100% in conjunction with Mandola�s and HEB), Little Bitty Burger Barn (donating 50%), t�afia, Bocado�s Restaurant and Bar, Bohemeo�s, The Boom Boom Room, the breakfast klub, Carter & Cooley Co., Cascadas Restaurante y Cantina, Daily Review Caf�, Dragon Bowl Asian Bistro, Firkin & Phoenix Pub, Hungry�s Caf� & Bistro, Inversion Coffee, Isla Coqui Restaurant & Bar, Julia�s Bistro, Just Dinner, Las Givral�s Kahve, Mary�z Lebanese Cuisine, The Path of Tea, Reggae Hut, Riva�s, Tacos A Go-Go, Tart Caf�, Tila�s Restaurante & Bar, And many more! For a complete list of participating Houston-area restaurants, please visit www.diningoutforlife.com For more information, contact Teri Prats at AFH: 713-623-6796 ext. 241. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Trio Formosan spring concert Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 26, 2009
Trio Formosan, �the chamber music trio with pizzazz�, is pleased to announce their spring 2009 series of concerts for your pleasure. This Houston, Texas based trio of talented and seasoned musicians has assembled an eclectic repertoire of captivating and absorbing music to please everyone with the genius of Leonard Bernstein�s � Trio for Violin, Cello and Piano� to� Butterfly Lovers�, a violin concerto adapted to piano trio by Olive Chen, the trio�s cellist. Mixed in is the enchanting �The Formosan Trio�, composed by Tyzen Hsiao, a renowned Taiwanese composer coupled with the lilting a Tango Suite for four seasons originally written by Argentinean composer, Astor Piazzolla.
Taiwan born all, the trio hail from the �Beautiful Island� of Formosa. Chia-Wen W. Bonbright, pianist, Johnny Chang, violinist, and Olive Chen, cellist had all charted their own respective list of admirable musical accomplishments prior to assembling Trio Formosan as a culmination of their shared love of music.
Please join them as they perform their music for you on May 15, 7:30 p.m. at Bethany Christian Church, 3223 Westheimer Rd. Houston, Texas 77098.
Admission is without charge, but donations are gladly accepted in order to help support Trio Formosan sustain their gift of chamber music to the community. For further information about this wonderful trio, please see TrioFormosan.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Sky Dancers complete contest season Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 26, 2009
The Cypress Falls High School Sky Dancers drill team recently wrapped up their 2009 contest season. At the Champion Dance Contest at Cypress Woods High School, the Sky Dancers received the Judges Award, Outstanding Choreography, Excellence Award and were first runners-up in the Medium class. The team placed first in Elite � Modern; was first in the Medium Team category, won Outstanding Presentation, Outstanding Choreography and first runner-up Best in Category for Kick; placed first in the Medium Team category and won Outstanding Showmanship for Tap; won first in the Medium Team category for Military; won second in the Medium Team category for Modern; and won first place in Medium Tap, Outstanding Showmanship, Outstanding Choreography and Outstanding Technique for Officer. At the American Dance Drill Team Competition at Morton Ranch High School, Rachel Bruno won first place in Solo; Tyler Anderson was the third runner-up soloist; Tyler Anderson, Taylor Craig and Caitlin Raffield won third place in Trio; and the team won first place in Elite Medium Ensemble. The Sky Dancers also won the Sweepstakes Award, Gussie Nell Davis Award, Judges Award Hip-Hop, Overall Presentation Award and Overall Choreography Award at the contest.
NAM offers free personal finance classes as part of Money Week Houston Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 26, 2009
Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) will host three financial classes in April as part of Money Week Houston, the financial education and public awareness campaign designed to help consumers better manage their personal finances. The classes are open to the public and free to attend. They will be held at NAM�s 15555 Kuykendahl Rd. location on the second floor in the Fifty Plus Senior Center. No reservations are required to attend. Money Matters will be held Tuesday, April 21 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. In this class, community members will learn about better budgeting and money management by preparing a personal spending plan and identifying ways to decrease spending and increase income. Borrowing Basics will be held Wednesday, April 22 from 6:30-8 p.m. This class will give participants a better understanding of how credit works and help them decide if they are ready to apply for credit. To Your Credit will be held Friday, April 24 from 12-1 p.m. Community members are encouraged to bring their lunch to this event and learn tools necessary to understand a credit report, how it is used, how to start repairing it, and how to recognize credit repair scams. Money Week Houston is an awareness and education initiative for the City of Houston and the surrounding Metropolitan areas. During the week of April 19-25, classes and events sponsored by partner organizations will be hosted across the Greater Houston area. The goal of Money Week Houston is to provide financial awareness and information emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and the need for consumers, small business owners, and non-profit organizations to be proactive about managing finances and increasing financial education. More information about Money Week Houston, including a complete list of community classes, can be found at www.moneyweekhouston.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
CFISD students among TUTS nominees for Tommy Tune Awards Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 26, 2009
CFISD theatre departments and students received nominations in seven categories of the 2008-2009 Tommy Tune Awards, presented by Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS).
Named after famous Broadway personality and Houston native Tommy Tune, the awards recognize and reward excellence in the production of musical theatre by high school students and their teachers in the greater Houston metropolitan area.
The Cypress Falls High School production of Once Upon A Mattress is up for four awards: � Best Choreography; � Best Costume Design; � Best Supporting Actress � Genevieve Simmons, senior, as Queen Aggravain; and � Best Featured Performer � Hannah McClellan, senior, as Lady Mabelle.
The Cypress Ridge High School production of Sweeney Todd is up for three awards: � Best Orchestra; � Best Scenic Design; and � Best Leading Actress � Lindsey Fuson, senior, as Mrs. Lovett.
Each nominee was viewed and evaluated by a panel of three judges, qualified theatre professionals who awarded points according to TUTS guidelines. The highest scores determine the nominees and winners in each category. The winners will be announced during an awards ceremony on April 21 at Sarofim Hall in the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Distinguished artists and producers will present the awards, while excerpts from the honored high school productions will be rehearsed and presented before an audience of 2,650.
Drill teams enjoy recent successes Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 25, 2009
The Cypress Lakes High School Sterling Stars and Langham Creek High School Bailadoras each enjoyed successful competitions in the month of February. The Sterling Stars were the first runner-up for grand champion at the Crowd Pleasers Mayde Creek Competition on Feb. 14. The team earned Best in Class � Lyrical and Best in Class � Open while earning the Team Super Sweepstakes. Eleah Maxfield and Megan Manson were Division I Soloists, and Caitlin Havins and Megan Manson were picked for Division I Duet. At the HTE Dance Magnolia Competition on Feb. 21, Rozlyn Veteto, Megan Manson and Eleah Maxfield scored 90 or more on Solos in Division I, while Caitlin Havins and Megan Manson won first place in Duet. LeeAnn Burger, Alyssa Rasco, Megan Manson, Caitlin Havins, Jillian Fredette and Sarah Janak won first place in Ensemble. The Sterling Stars took first place in Team Pom, Team Lyrical and Team Open, and won the Overall Showmanship Award, Overall Choreography Award and Team Sweepstakes for Division I. The Langham Creek Bailadoras had similar success at the Cypress Woods competition on Feb. 28, which featured 18 teams. The team won first place in Large Group Team Pom, Lyrical and Open and second place in Large Group Team Jazz; first place in Elite Hip Hop; first place in Best in category for Lyrical, Tap and Pom; first place in Dance Officers Jazz, Lyrical, Tap and Novelty to earn overall Grand Champions and Best In Class; a choreography award and the High Point Performance Award for the Dance Officer Lyrical routine. Leah Colburn and Allison Roehm were Senior Finalists in the Solo category; Allison Corrigan won fourth place in Junior Soloist; Hayley Banks and Allison Roehm won third place in Duets; Hayley Banks, Rachel Lee and Allison Roehm won second place in Trios; and Leah Colburn, Alicia Boulet, Hannah Johnson and Candace Dwyer won second place in Small Ensembles. The Bailadoras will traveled to New York for nationals over spring break.
Student�s Rodeo artwork a finalist for �People�s Choice� contest Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 25, 2009
Danish Elementary School fifth-grade student Manuel Martinez is one of 27 Houston-area finalists in the Reliant Energy Power of Art �People�s Choice� Voting Contest, part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Martinez�s artwork, �Come Visit the Hayloft,� can be voted on through April 6 at reliantpowerzone.com/powerofart/. The top three vote-earners receive $1,000 in art supplies for his or her school district, $1,000 in art supplies for his or her school and a Power of Art package.
Martinez qualified for the contest by receiving Best of Show in the Elementary division of CFISD�s Rodeo School Art Program.
�Manuel Martinez is not only talented in art, he is respected by his classmates,� said Danish art specialist Joan Smullen. �When students want to learn how to make something, Manuel graciously shows them how to do it. He tirelessly worked on his Rodeo art picture, giving up many recesses to complete it. I am so thankful that Manuel got this recognition; he truly deserves it.�
North Cypress Medical Center Offers Free Heart Screenings Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted March 25, 2009
North Cypress Medical Center, a luxury acute care hospital in the Northwest Houston area, will provide free heart screenings for patients on April 4, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Healthy Heart Screenings will include free cholesterol, blood pressure, glucose and BMI tests. Please call 832-912-3834 to pre-register.
Located at Northwest Freeway and Huffmeister Road, North Cypress Medical Center (NCMC) serves the Cypress and Northwest Houston community with state-of-the-art medical technology and equipment, well-respected Houston physicians, and an upscale atmosphere.
At 9:30 a.m., leading Houston cardiologist, Dr. Mobeen Mazhar will be speaking on the ways that North Cypress can help keep your heart healthy.
To ensure the hospital staff has enough supplies on hand, those wishing to have glucose or cholesterol screenings must call 832-912-3834 to pre-register. For the most accurate test results, it is recommended that patients do not eat or drink anything on the morning of the screenings.
For more information on free heart screenings at North Cypress Medical Center, please visit www.ncmc-hospital.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Powerful bio-drama �Constant Star� on stage April 16 � April 19 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 25, 2009
Don�t miss Tazewell Thompson�s �Constant Star� performed on stage at Lone Star College-CyFair, in collaboration with The Ensemble Theatre, April 16 through April 19. This powerful bio-drama is a bold look at the life of civil rights pioneer, suffragette and outspoken activist Ida B. Wells, a passionate, fiery champion of equality for women and black Americans. The daughter of freed slaves, Wells was a newspaper editor and publisher, co-founder of the NAACP, mother, wife and the single most powerful leader in the anti-lynching campaign in America. Her outspoken nature, tenacious spirit and refusal to assimilate are portrayed in the life of this often overlooked African-American leader in this production interspersed with classic Negro spirituals. Andy Crum, Denetra Asomugha and Jenny Thomas are among the LSC-CyFair students involved in this collaboration with veterans from The Esemble Theatre, including Jo Ann Davis-Jones, Detria Ward, Roenia Thompson, Shaunyce Omar and Cynthia Brown, who will all be playing Ida B. Wells. Performances are set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday (preview night) April 16, 8 p.m. Friday, April 17 (a reception will follow) and Saturday, April 18 and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 19. Performances will be held in the Main Stage Theatre, located in the Center for the Arts building on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $5 for students with ID. Preview night tickets are $5 and available at the door only. Group rates are available. For information, call 281-290-5201 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/boxoffice. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Students place in state forensics tournament Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 24, 2009
All 10 CFISD high school speech and debate teams recently hosted the 36th Annual Texas Forensic Association (TFA) State Speech and Debate Tournament at Cypress Ranch High School and the Berry Center. The competition drew 172 high school programs featuring the best speakers, debaters and actors from across the state. In addition to serving as host, CFISD showcased its own talented students in the competition.
>From Jersey Village High School, senior Joe Flores received a scholarship from TFA for his continued success over his four-year forensic career, while sophomore Peter Paul Wong advanced to the state Congress Senate finals at the Berry Center.
>From Cypress Falls High School, senior Saif Kazim advanced to the double octo-finals round of Lincoln-Douglas Debate and sophomore Lina Meghji won second place in finals of Impromptu Speaking.
�It was the experience of a lifetime. There are a lot of quality competitors in Houston and around the state,� Kazim said. Added Meghji, �The level of competition pushed me to do my best. It was awesome having the �home-field� advantage.�
>From Cypress Woods High School, senior Austin Baker advanced to the octo-finals round of Lincoln-Douglas Debate.
�I�m proud that Cy Woods was represented at the state level for three striaght years,� said Cypress Woods coach Ashley Adkins. We are in acompetitive area, and it takes a lot of dedication and commitment not only to qualify for state but to advance on to out-rounds.�
Cypress Ridge High School won sixth place in Overall Sweepstakes with two state championship titles: senior Nick Cugini in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking and senior Brett Gray in Humorous Interpretation. Cugini, who won the state title for the second consecutive year, was also the third place Student Congress speaker and a quarterfinalist in Original Oratory. Sophomore Lario Albarran won third place in Poetry Interpretation.
�(Debate has) left a lasting impression on the rest of my life,� said Gray, who was also a state semifinalist in Dramatic Interpretation. �State champion is a title that I proudly accept in honor of those who have helped me see my dream come true.�
2009 Airport Festival Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 24, 2009
The Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the IAH Bush Intercontinental Airport Festival will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2009 at the Continental Airlines Hangar, from Noon until 4 p.m. The 2009 festival marks the 26th Festival, the 35th Anniversary of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce and the 40th Anniversary of Intercontinental Airport.
The IAH Bush Intercontinental Airport Festival will be held at the Continental Airlines Hangar, Building B at 4365 Wright Road. This family-centered event is a fun and educational way to spend a Saturday afternoon while celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Bush IAH. Admission is $10 for adults in advance, $15 at the gate and children 3-12 years is $5. The ticket price includes food, beverages, free parking and activities for everyone, as well as the a raffle ticket for a chance to win two pair of Continental Airline tickets! The airline tickets are for anywhere within the Continental US48 including Alaska/Canada/Mexico/Caribbean and Central America.
Popular attractions include static displays of F-16s, T 38, T6�s, Apache, Hurricane Hunter, helicopters and more! Pilots will be on hand and families can climb inside to see the inner workings of these aviation marvels. Guests may also enjoy the EMS vehicles, Houston Zoo Mobile, food and beverage vendors, stage entertainment and a Children�s Area. Sponsoring corporations and local organizations will showcase their businesses in the Expo Area. The annual festival also yields aviation scholarships sponsored by business men and women for deserving seniors in our community which are awarded at the Airport Festival Scholarship Luncheon to be held in June.
For more information or to order event tickets, contact the Houston Northwest Chamber at 281-440-4160 or visit us on the web at www.HoustonNWChamber.org or visit one of the following Chartway Federal Credit Union locations: 16830 JFK Blvd., IAH - near Gate C-45 (past security), 8451 Lockheed (Hobby Airport Hangar), 500 Jefferson, Suite 240 Continental Corporate Headquarters and the North Houston Reservation Center located at 900 Grand Plaza Parkway (Beltway 8 & Ella). Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Making plans to bring in the law Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 24, 2009
As the Saturday, May 2 rolls closer, community leaders gathered to finalize plans for the 15th Annual Salute to Law Enforcement held at Willowbrook Mall. The event, presented by Sprint, Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce and Spring ISD Police Department, is the largest known gathering of law-enforcement agencies in the country and is expected to attract around 50,000 visitors. This year, the event will be held on Saturday, May 2 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and will help to draw attention to the law enforcement profession as National Police Week begins on Monday, May 4. In the photo, from left, Daniel Brown with Harris County Sheriff�s Office; Gary Lendennie from Sprint, a major underwriter of the Salute; April Jones, co-chair of the Salute committee and executive of Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union; Chief Alan Bragg, co-chair of the Salute committee and chief of police of Spring ISD Police Department; and Erin Al-Salman, president of Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www.salutetolawenforcement.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
AIDS Walk Houston Raises $750,000 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 24, 2009
Sunday morning, March 15th, ten thousand Houstonians gathered at Sam Houston Park Downtown to use their feet to raise awareness and money to support AIDS Foundation Houston (AFH) and several other local HIV/AIDS service organizations. The 20th Annual AIDS Walk, presented in partnership with Chevron, raised over $750,000. �We were thrilled to see so many Houstonians come and show their support for the twentieth year of AIDS Walk,� said Kelly McCann, CEO of AFH. �For twenty years the citywide collaboration, community support and corporate generosity have all worked together to make this the largest HIV/AIDS fundraiser of its kind in Texas.� The funds raised will help AFH and 14 local HIV/AIDS service organizations provide housing, testing, food, medical care, prevention education, counseling, pediatric programs and job training to thousands of community members. In Houston, HIV/AIDS infection rates have reached alarming numbers�it is now estimated that 25,000 Houstonians are HIV-positive with three more citizens becoming infected every day. HIV/AIDS does not discriminate; it affects people of all communities, regardless of ethnicities, genders, age or sexual orientation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over one million people are currently living with HIV/AIDS in the United States and approximately 40,000 � 60,000 new infections occur every year
Bleyl MS students help promote water conservation Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 23, 2009
A pair of Bleyl Middle School students were selected to appear in a series of web-based �Kid Vids��water conservation videos produced by the North Harris County Regional Water Authority (NHCRWA).
Eighth-grade students Kelly Robinson and Patrick McMillan will be the main actors in the videos on the NHCRWA website, nhcrwa.com. To view their first video, �Protecting Our Water Supply��, go to the �Conservation� tab and click �Videos.�
Among their on-camera duties, the students will perform live experiments and visit various water plant sites for hands-on learning. According toNHCRWA communications director Barbara Payne, Robinson and McMillan are naturals at their new jobs.
�These two kids were cracker-jack. When we got there to shoot the first video, they virtually did it in the first take,� Payne said. �They had learned their lines and they were great. I�m looking forward to working with them again. They were delightful; they were absolutely prepared to go in front of the camera.�
The two students will attend the upcoming �Healthy Kids Day� at the Cypress Creek Family YMCA (19915 State Hwy. 249) on April 18 to make an appearance and autograph the NHCRWA-sponsored children�s adventure book, �Journey to Pansophigus.�
This week, Bleyl is hosting the NHCRWA Mobile Teaching Lab on campus at 10800 Mills Road�an outdoor trailer that features several interactive exhibits, focusing on where Cy-Fair water comes from; how the community uses it; how it must be protected from pollution; and how the community can use it more efficiently.
The Mobile Teaching Lab will also make stops at Aragon Middle School (16823 West Road) on March 23-27 and Arnold Middle School (11111 Telge Road) on March 30 - April 4.
Student journalists win Gold Circle awards from Columbia Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 23, 2009
Three Cypress Falls High School students garnered eight Scholastic Gold Circle Awards from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), announced at the 85th annual national CSPA convention at Columbia University, March 18-20.
The Gold Circle Awards recognize superior work by student journalists, both individually and as an entire staff in print and online media. The students� work was judged by experienced journalists and educators familiar with the context surrounding student journalism. More than 13,000 entries were submitted for this annual competition and about 1,000 awards were given in the 241 different categories.
Andy Tittle, Golden Eagle yearbook senior staff member, won three awards: first place for �A Little Help,� second place for �Yal Not Yak� and honorable mention for �Never Stop� in the Yearbook division, Sports action photo: Sports action black and white photo category.
April Cunningham, former Golden Eagle yearbook staff member, also won three awards: first place for �Football� and second place for �Volleyball� in the Yearbook division, Sports multi-page presentation: Black and white category; and honorable mention for �Fighting Chance� in the Yearbook division, Sports page one spread: Black and white category.
Chelsea Ruffino, Wingspan senior staff member, won a pair of first-place awards: for �Unnecessary Art� in the Newspaper division, Page one design: Tabloid format black and white category; and for �Through the Net� in the Newspaper division, Photo layout: Full page black and white category.
Boutique Day Preview Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 23, 2009
The Giving Gown Foundation will be hosting our annual Boutique Day on March 27 and 28. Over this two day event more than 300 area high school Jr. and Sr. girls will "shop" for a gown and accessories from their Prom - all being provided to them FREE of charge. Although Boutique Day itself is a closed event we are offering a Preview on Friday, March 27 at Noon. You are welcome to come and see first hand the beautiful gowns, jewelry, shoes, purses & even new cosmetics that will be waiting for each registered girl. Boutique Day 2009 is being hosted by Fellowship of the Woodlands in their student ministry building. For additional information please contact us or visit our web site at www.givinggown.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com. Cy-Fair Surgery Center Promotes Colorectal Cancer Screening among Local Women
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted March 23, 2009
This year more than 70,000 women will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. There is a growing need not only to educate Americans on the prevalence colorectal cancer, but also to convince women that the risk extends to them. While the disease does not discriminate against women, they often discriminate against themselves. Too often women spend their time and energy on other people -- their children, spouses and parents -- and forget or run of out of time to take care of their own health. The fact is that the leading risk factor of colorectal cancer is age, not gender or heredity. Most people who die from colorectal cancer do so most often because of late detection. Those who are able to detect the disease in its early stages have a 90 percent chance of survival. Late detection lowers these chances to 10 percent. Everyone over 50 years needs to be screening for colorectal cancer. Be proactive! It's your life. Please join us for a FREE seminar:Colon Cancer: The Risk to Women, Saturday, March 28 from 1 - 3 p.m. For more information, please contact: Cy-Fair Surgery Center, 250 Fallbrook, Houston, TX 77065, 281-955-7194. cyfairsurgery.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Guys and Dolls Auditions
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted March 20, 2009
DLP Productions Houston on Broadway has announced auditions for their production of Guys and Dolls on March 25 and 26 at InStep Dance Studio located at 449 Sawdust Rd. or The Woodlands Church at 1202 Millbend Rd. from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Actors are asked to arrive for the audition prepared with one or two songs of contrasting style with accompaniment tracks or an accompanist can be provided for a $10 fee. To request an audition please send an email to apitre4dlp@yahoo.com with the following information: Age of individual auditioning, phone number, experience, Day and time preferable to the person auditioning and indication if an accompanist is needed. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Soccer playoffs begin next week
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted March 19, 2009
CFISD boys and girls soccer teams completed their respective regular seasons and will all play their Region II-5A Bi-district playoff games on Tuesday, March 24.
The boys' playoff pairings are as follows:
Langham Creek vs. Round Rock McNeil, 6 p.m., Berry Center (8877 Barker Cypress Road); Cypress Woods vs. Cedar Park, 7:30 p.m., Cypress Woods High School (16825 Spring Cypress Road); Cypress Ridge vs. Round Rock Stony Point, 6 p.m., Dragon Stadium (620 Lake Creek Dr.) in Round Rock; and Cypress Falls vs. Georgetown, 6 p.m., Cypress Falls High School (9811 Huffmeister Road).
The girls' playoff pairings are as follows:
Cypress Creek vs. Cedar Park Vista Ridge, time TBD, Cypress Creek High School (9815 Grant Road);
Cypress Woods vs. Round Rock, time TBD, Cypress Woods High School; Cy-Fair vs. Round Rock McNeil, 6 p.m., Georgetown High School (2211 N. Austin Ave.); and Langham Creek vs. Round Rock Westwood, 4 p.m., Westwood High School (12400 Mellow Meadow) in Austin.
Fresh Colors, New Looks for Spring
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted March 19, 2009
Shop at Houston Premium Outlets and update your wardrobe with incredible savings at your favorite designer and name brands outlets including Ann Taylor Factory Store, Banana Republic Factory Store, Burberry, Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Nike Factory Store, Tommy Hilfiger and True Religion. Visit the Sales & Events page for a list of in-store promotions. New Stores Now Open: Calvin Klein Underwear, DKNY, Ecco, Uniform Factory Outlet and U.S. Polo Assn. Shopping Packages: Hyatt Regency Houston, Houston, Shop & Stay package which includes a $25 centerwide Gift Card. Northwest Forest Conference Center & Hotel, Cypress, Shop & Stay package which includes a $25 centerwide Gift Card. Omni Houston Hotel Westside, Houston, Shop & Stay package which includes a $25 centerwide Gift Card
Exclusive VIP Savings Visit The VIP Lounge for exclusive coupons from Brooks Brothers Factory Store, Elie Tahari, Kenneth Cole, Tag Heuer, Waterford Wedgwood and many more. Plus, print a voucher for a complimentary VIP Coupon Book. Visit premiumoutlets.com/Houston for more information. Please mention you found this at CyFairMagazine.com.
Center for the Arts Season Tickets on Sale at LSC-CyFair Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted March 18, 2009
Order your seats for the 2009 Spring Season of Entertainment at Lone Star College-CyFair and not only save 25% off regular ticket prices, but receive one free ticket to the summer children's production "Aladdin." Choral performances include the "World Folk Music and Dance" April 3 and an opera "The Medium" April 30 through May 3. Music performances include the "CyFair Music-N-Company" symphonic band concert March 27, a string orchestra concert May 4 and a jazz band concert May 6. The theatre performances include "Constant Star" performed in collaboration with The Ensemble Theatre, April 16 through April 19 and "Aladdin" the summer children's show June 8 through June 20. A variety of season ticket packages are available for this year's engaging and enjoyable choral, music and theatre line up. All performances are held in the Center for the Arts on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. Call 281-290-5201 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/boxoffice for information. In addition, the Center for the Arts houses various exhibitions in the Bosque Gallery showcasing the artistic talents of students, staff, faculty and community members in a variety of mediums such as ceramics, acrylic, oil, water color, metal and photography. Call 832-482-1038 or to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/bosquegallery for information. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Komen Houston Affiliate Honored at Annual Pink Tie Gala and Luxury Auction
Cy- Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted March 18, 2009
The Fourth Annual Susan G. Komen for the Cure Houston Affiliate's Pink Tie Gala honoring Komen founder Nancy G. Brinker was held Saturday, February 28, 2009. The pink tie evening was hosted by KPRC's Dominique Sachse and over 400 guests enjoyed the entertainment by Fried Ice Cream.
This year's event, sponsored once again by Kroger Food Stores, began with a cocktail reception and luxury silent auction, followed by a dinner and big board auction featuring artwork by John Pavlicek, a trip to Puerto Vallarta and a luncheon with Dominique Sachse.
Many outstanding individuals and groups were honored at the event for their dedication to the Komen Houston Affiliate. Vickie Milazzo Institute received the Hope Award for Ambassadorship, Brenda and Larry Petru received the Hope Award for Individual Philanthropy and Massage Envy received the Hope Award for Corporate Philanthropy. All of these awards were bestowed on those whose generous support has significantly advanced the mission of the Houston Affiliate.
Colin Elliott, who lost his wife Angie to breast cancer this past fall also at the age of 37, was the first ever recipient of the Kendra Kirsch Co-Survivor Award. This special award honors co-survivors who take on an incredible role in the life of those battling breast cancer.
Money raised from the evening will directly impact the community in helping take the Houston Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure one step further to finding the cures.
Northwest Flyers Youth Track Club Information Session
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted March 16, 2009
The Northwest Flyers Track Club will host a free open house / registration session for all middle and high school athletes and their parents interested in joining for the 2009 season. The event will be held on Monday, April 6, 2009, from 7:00 - 8:30 PM at Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, Cypress/Magnolia Room, First Floor, 18220 Tomball Parkway/SH 249, Houston, TX 77070. The session will begin with a very important program overview / orientation at 7 p.m. All interested athletes and parents should report on time.
The Northwest Flyers is a youth (ages 6 -18) track organization, affiliated with USA Track & Field. The club provides a full program of track events such as sprints, hurdles, middle distance, distance and relays, and field events such as long jump, triple jump, high jump, pole vault, discus, shot put and javelin. Contact Linette Roach at (281) 587-8442 or linette.roach@sbcglobal.net. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Drivers place in School Bus Safety Road-e-o Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 13, 2009
Bus driver Oscar Castiblanco of the Falcon Transportation Center won the Cy-Fair ISD School Bus Safety Road-e-o, held on Saturday at the Eldridge Transportation Center.
The Road-e-o consists of 12 events, including parallel parking, straight line (aligning the bus to allow front and rear dual wheels to travel between a row of tennis balls without disturbing them) and a written exam.
Castiblanco and the second- through fourth-place finishers won a parking space, plaque and various other prizes. Shirley Montgomery of the Telge Transportation Center placed second; Helen Nixon of the Eldridge Transportation Center placed third; and Christine Mangum of the Falcon Center placed fourth. Driver Janice Slaughter of the Eldridge Center placed fifth and will be an alternate at the regional competition.
The four drivers qualified for the Gulf Coast Chapter of the Texas Association for Pupil Transportation (TAPT) School Bus Safety Road-e-o competition on Saturday, April 4 at the Houston ISD Northwest Transportation Center (6351 Pinemont Dr.). The top four in the regional competition will compete at the 36th Annual TAPT Annual Conference and Equipment Show, June 11-17 in Austin. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Willowbrook Mall welcomes new stores Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 13, 2009
From toys to tuxedos to tasty treats, Willowbrook Mall announces several new additions to its list of national retailers. Just in time for prom season and June weddings, Tahos Formal and Bridal has opened near Macy's Mens. The festive retailer features a selection of tuxedos and formal accessories for rent. For women, Tahos has collections for the bride and her wedding party, plus special occasion dresses for prom. Pretzelmaker, with its fresh-from-the-oven treats, is a yummy addition to Willowbrook Mall. The national company features hand-rolled and baked-fresh pretzels made with only the freshest ingredients. The menu includes both sweet and savory pretzels including the Original Pretzel, a hot, fresh salt-and-butter flavored topping pretzel that made the company famous. For high-flying fun, UJ Toys has everything and more. The Houston-based company specializes in remote-control items including helicopters, micro helicopters, planes, cars and boats plus educational toys, gifts, promotional items, seasonal gifts and gadgets. The fun never stops at UJ Toys located near The Wild West children's play area. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Team Handball Tryouts Announced Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 13, 2009
Team Handball tryouts for the USA National Team (men and women under 23 years old) will be held Saturday, March 21 from 5-8 pm and Saturday, April 4 from 5-8 pm at the West Houston Indoor Soccer facility located at 17115 Clay Road in Houston. If you are a good overall athlete,good ball player and you have a dream to one day play at Olympics then log on: www.usateamhandball.org and register. Your predisposition to play Team Handball will be evaluated by our national staff of coaches. Brand new Team Handball Club "White Star-Lions" is coming soon in the aria (Under 21 years old boys and girls). For more information E-mail : zivovic@usateamhandball.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
'Take Our Child to Work Day' set for June 17, 2009 Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 12, 2009
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, in partnership with other Houston-area school districts, will participate in 'Take Our Child to Work Day' on Wednesday, June 17, 2009, rather than the national set date of April 23.
The district's decision to participate in this event in June rather than April allows the activity to not interfere with a regular instructional school day. It also provides local businesses with the freedom to determine the appropriate level of participation for business owners and their employees' children.
Students will not be excused from school next month to participate in the national 'Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day.' Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Schools recognized for yearbook excellence Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 12, 2009
Several CFISD middle school and high school yearbook staffs have been recognized by Taylor Publishing with Awards of Excellence, honoring their accomplishments in yearbook design and coverage.
Judges selected the following schools: 2007-2008 yearbooks among the best, and they will be featured in Taylor's 2009 Yearbook Yearbook:
Cy-Fair, Cypress Creek, Cypress Ridge, Cypress Woods and Langham Creek high schools; and Bleyl, Goodson, Hopper, Kahla, Labay, Spillane and Watkins middle schools.
Taylor awarded nine other CFISD schools' yearbooks with honorable mention status:
Cypress Falls, Cypress Springs and Jersey Village high schools; and Aragon, Arnold, Cook, Dean, Hamilton and Truitt middle schools.
Yearbooks published by Taylor were evaluated in one or more of the following areas: cover design, theme development, layout design, photo content and secondary packages.
Taylor is a major publisher of yearbooks nationwide, and provides training, technical support and printing service to school yearbook staffs. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Search for Nation's Best Undiscovered Game Show Host Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 12, 2009
GSN LIVE is searching for America'' Best Undiscovered Game Show Host. GSN LIVE Play Every Day Tour will make its only Texas stop at Willowbrook Mall. Shoppers can audition for their chance to win an all-expense paid trip to Los Angeles to co-host a segment of GSN LIVE, a daily program which features live game play throughout the day, as well as game highlights and celebrity interviews. Alfonso Ribeiro, of Catch 21, GSN LIVE and The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, will join in on the fun at Willowbrook Mall.
GSN's game show host search will feature two semi-final rounds and one final round of auditions in front of a live mall audience on a replica of the GSN LIVE set. Six participants per semi-final round will each be given seven minutes to demonstrate their best game show hosting skills, while being scored on their game show potential, stage presence, contestant interaction, energy level and ability to command the audience. The semi-final round winners from each market will then face off in a final round to determine Houston's best game show host. The final winner will win an all-expense paid trip to Los Angeles where he/she will experience a day in the life of a game show host and co-host a segment of GSN LIVE.
The GSN LIVE audition and games will be in Future Court, near Helzberg Diamonds and Toni & Guy. No purchase is necessary to enter or win, but contestants must be 18 years of age or older. For official rules, visit www.GSN.com/LIVE. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Jersey Village HS wins Best Buy Teach Award Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 11, 2009
Jersey Village High School was selected this week to receive a $5,000 Best Buy Teach Award, based on an application submitted by Jersey Village Radio / Television teacher Cindy Stoker.
This year, Best Buy Teach Awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, were given to more than 460 schools to sustain or enhance existing educational programs.
�Teachers are finding creative ways to engage students by using technology hands-on we want to support their efforts by helping them enhance or expand these programs,� said Paula Prahl, senior vice president of communications, public affairs and corporate responsibility for Best Buy Co. Inc. �We know that schools are the cornerstones of these communities where our employees, customers, and their families live and work.�
Since 2003, the Best Buy Teach Awards Program has rewarded schools that creatively integrate interactive technology into their curricula. Over the past five years nearly 6,000 schools nationwide have received $17 million in Teach Awards, reaching 1.5 million K-12 students. All accredited, public and private nonprofit elementary, middle and secondary schools are eligible. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Vicki Snokhous named new principal at Arnold MS Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 11, 2009
Vicki Snokhous, the associate principal at Cy-Fair High School, was named the new principal at Arnold Middle School this week.
Snokhous replaces Susan Higgins, who was named the new principal at Smith Middle School (No. 16) in January.
Snokhous has 25 years of experience in education. She began her education career in Oklahoma, teaching high school for nine years prior to four years as a middle school teacher in Mesquite ISD. When she arrived at CFISD, she taught three years at Dean Middle School and one year as a helping teacher for at-risk students at Cy-Fair High School. She was promoted to assistant principal and served three years in that capacity before assuming the role of associate principal�a position she has held for five years.
Snokhous received her Bachelor of Science in Education from Oklahoma State University and her Master of Education from Sam Houston State University. She is certified in Secondary Physical Science (6-12), Secondary Life-Earth Science (6-12), Secondary Biology (6-12), and as an EC-12 Principal.
�Arnold Middle School has a history rich in educational excellence,� Snokhous said. �I am thrilled and honored to be part of it. Over the years at Cy-Fair High School, I have been fortunate to work with the first-rate students Arnold has produced, and it is such a testament to the wonderful staff. I cannot think of a better school or faculty to become part of. I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with the students, parents, staff and community of Arnold Middle School.� Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Dance competitions set for April 8-9 at Berry Center Cy -Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 11, 2009
The CFISD Young Men for Positive Action (YMPA) and Young Ladies for Positive Action (YLPA) and the Hispanic Organization for Leaders of America (HOLA), will host Step and Latin Dance district competitions at the Berry Center (8877 Barker Cypress Road) on April 8-9.
The Step Competition, sponsored by YMPA and YLPA, will be in the Berry Center auditorium at 7 p.m. on April 8. Groups of students representing various CFISD schools will compete in step dance� a form of percussive dance in which the participant�s entire body is used as an instrument to produce complex rhythms and sounds through a mixture of footsteps, spoken word and hand claps.
The Latin Dance Competition, sponsored by HOLA, will be in the Berry Center auditorium at 7 p.m. on April 9. Latin dance categories will include salsa, merengue, reggaeton, bachata, cumbia and other dances originating from Latin America and the Caribbean islands.
Tickets are $5 a piece and are available on the day of each respective event at the Berry Center box office. The box office opens at 3 p.m. for ticket sales. The doors open at 6 p.m. on both April 8 and 9.
The YLPA and YMPA are student organizations that encourage academic achievement and high moral character. Members are active in athletics, fine arts and other student activities, as well as several community service projects throughout the school year.
HOLA is a school-based club made up of Hispanic students who find interest in studying and appreciating Hispanic culture. Activities include cultural information, leadership training, community service, team building, dance appreciation and various other projects. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cypress Lakes High School will be hosting a one of a kind, Science Summer camp for ages 10-14. There will be two one-week sessions, June 8 - 12 and August 3 - 7. The cost of the camp is $150. The camp includes labs, demos, activities, field trips and presentations from four fields of science: Engineering, Physics, Biology, and Chemistry. Each camper will receive a binder with all labs, activities, science fair ideas and TAKS tips. Monday - Friday 9 am - 4 pm. Before/after care provided at an additional costs. The camp will be at Cypress Lakes High School, 5750 Greenhouse Rd, Katy, Texas, 77449 cylakesseacamp.webs.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Falls student named top Texas HS journalist Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 10, 2009
For the third time in four years, a Cypress Falls High School student has been named the Texas Association of Journalism Educators (TAJE) Texas High School Journalist of the Year.
Senior Kendall Popelsky was named the 2009 winner this week, qualifying her for the Journalism Education Association (JEA) national competition, which will be announced at the JEA National Convention on April 19 in Phoenix.
Fellow Cypress Falls senior Chelsea Ruffino was awarded first runner-up for the statewide competition.
In 2006 and 2008, Cypress Falls students Marcelino and Alex Benito won Texas High School Journalist of the Year, respectively, before each going on to win National High School Journalist of the Year.
Popelsky currently writes and takes photos for the school newspaper, The Wingspan, was the former editor of The Wingspan Online and has written for and designed the school yearbook, The Golden Eagle. Additionally, Popelsky has done freelance writing for RISE magazine and the HS GameTime website.
Popelsky will attend Texas Tech University in the fall and plans to major in journalism. Her current plan is to become a professional sports writer.
Cypress Falls journalism coordinator Lisa Van Etta attributed her students� success to having well-rounded skill sets.
�They�re all-around journalists. They�re not just newspaper people or yearbook people, they can do it all,� Van Etta said. �That�s what makes them winners at the state and national levels. I�m very happy for Kendall and I hope she wins.� Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Academic achievers win Jonas Brothers tickets Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 10, 2009
Two high-performing CFISD elementary school students won free tickets from Reliant Energy to see the March 8 Jonas Brothers concert at Reliant Stadium during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Lamkin Elementary School fifth-grade student Caroline Heinze won four free tickets and Owens Elementary School fifth-grade student Yajaira Andaya won two free tickets to the sold-out show.
Teachers and principals from Houston-area school districts nominated approximately 800 students for the tickets, and only 26 were selected.
Reliant Energy chose the winners based on academic achievement, improved academic performance and outstanding citizenship. Reliant is the largest supporter of the Rodeo�s youth education programs. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
LSC-CyFair Named to Presidential Honor Roll for Community Service Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 10, 2009
With more than 10,000 volunteer community service hours, Lone Star College-CyFair students are not only making an impact in the Cy-Fair area, but have earned the college national recognition for their exemplary service efforts. The Corporation for National and Community Service recently honored LSC-CyFair with a place on the President�s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, which is the highest federal recognition a school can achieve for its commitment to Service Learning and civic engagement. �We are excited to have earned this national recognition for LSC-CyFair and to honor our faculty, particularly since we don�t have a large program,� said Ronnie Nespeca, Service Learning director. �This college incorporated Service Learning soon after opening just five short years ago. And while we have a limited number of faculty offering Service Learning courses, they are truly dedicated to this great cause.� Service Learning is a teaching method that combines academic instruction with community service that addresses area needs as well as develops student skills, a sense of civic responsibility and commitment to the surrounding community. �Through Service Learning, you are not only helping students learn, but you�re providing a service to a community agency that needs assistance,� Nespeca said. LSC-CyFair partners with area non-profit organizations through several semester-long courses with Service Learning designations. In addition to accounting students, who are assisting community members with their tax preparations each spring, and some elementary education students, who have volunteered in Cy-Fair Independent School District classrooms, LSC-CyFair student organizations are putting in volunteer community service hours throughout the year. �In this time of economic distress, we need volunteers more than ever. College students represent an enormous pool of idealism and energy to help tackle some of our toughest challenges,� said Stephen Goldsmith, vice chair of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which oversees the Honor Roll. �We salute Lone Star College-CyFair for making community service a campus priority, and thank the millions of college students who are helping to renew America through service to others.� For information on Service Learning at LSC-CyFair, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/servicelearning. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cypress Dance Studio will offer a Summer Dance Camp featuring Ballroom, Line Dancing, Latin, Salsa, Swing, Zumba, Ballet and Hip Hop to name a fewl. Camp dates are June 1 - 12, June 15 - 26, June 29 - July 3, July 6 - 17, July 20 - 31 and Aug. 3 - 7. Days and Times are Monday through Friday from 10 am - 2 pm. Benefits of dancing include better health and self-esteem. Kids at our summer camp will be busy learning all the proper foundation of dancing including as seen on TV Dancing with the Stars Ballroom and Latin dances (Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Swing, Samba), as well as Country Western Two-Step, Polka, Line dancing, Salsa. We will also teach traditional Ballet, Jazz and HipHop. The variety of dance styles is incredible and exciting. Don�t miss this opportunity to introduce your child to healthy lifestyle and open a whole new world. Fees are based on a 2-week session. Each additional child from the same family will be at a discounted rate. No credits or make-up will be given for missed camp days. Pricing is as follows a Two - week session, $350, additonal child $300. One-week session - $200, additional child, $175. One Day - $60. Children must be five - 13 years of age. In order to reserve a space in a session, one-half of the camp fees must accompany your registration. Each session's fees must be paid in full prior to the start of the session. For more information visiti Cypressdance.com or call 832-475-9142. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
JVTV students win film awards Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 9, 2009
Three Jersey Village High School JVTV students placed in the Quack Attack Film Festival, hosted by Lone Star College � Cy-Fair on Friday, Feb. 27. The competition consisted of 87 entries.
Categories included Drama, Comedy, Public Service Announcements, Action, Documentary, Commercial/Advertisement, Horror, Science Fiction, Romance, Animation, News Packages and Music Video.
Each film was judged on the basis of creativity, sound, cinematography and special effects.
Junior Jordan Propst placed first in the News Packages category for her story on anatomy class and third in �Best of Show.�
Senior Victor Lopez and freshman Brady Kennedy placed second in the News Packages category for their story on the Jersey Village wrestling team. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Eckhart wins state swimming title Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 9, 2009
Cypress Creek High School freshman swimmer Kathryn Eckhart led the charge among CFISD representatives at the UIL Class 5A Swimming & Diving Championships this weekend, winning the state championship in the 50 Freestyle with a time of 23.11.
�She had a spectacular swim. She did everything she needed to do perfectly to win,� said Cypress Creek coach Jeff Chandler. �She�s still a freshman, so it�s pretty impressive. She was flying high after she won. I don�t think it sunk in for her until about 30 minutes after the awards ceremony.�
Cypress Woods High School senior Seraphina Van had two top-five finishes at state, placing second in the 200 Individual Medley (2:02.36) and fourth in the 100 Butterfly (55.37). Cy-Fair High School senior Kaelee Mader placed fifth in the 200 Individual Medley.
For the boys, Cy-Fair senior Hudson Rains placed second in 1-meter Diving (466.10); Cypress Creek sophomore Jonathan Edwards placed fourth in the 200 Individual Medley and eighth in the 100 Backstroke (52.15); Cypress Woods senior Shea Kenny placed seventh in the 100 Freestyle (46.47); and Langham Creek High School senior Andrew Keily placed seventh in the 500 Freestyle (4:33.99). Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Wrestlers place at state tournament Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 9, 2009
Four CFISD wrestlers placed in the top six in their respective weight classes at the UIL Wrestling Championships at the Austin ISD Delco Center last weekend.
Cy-Fair High School sophomore Jake Ekster placed second in the 125-pound weight class, winning three matches before falling to the eventual champion in the final.
Cy-Fair senior Julie Smith won two matches before losing a match to go into the consolation bracket, where she won two matches to place third in the 128-pound weight class.
Other top-six finishers were Cypress Creek freshman Anna McAleavey in the 119-pound class (sixth place) and Cypress Ridge junior Gwen Haley in the 102-pound class (sixth). Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Steel Magnolias added to The Texas Repertory Theatre Spring Line-Up Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 9, 2009
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co., NW Houston�s own critically-acclaimed professional theatre, announces the addition of Steel Magnolias to its spring line-up of shows. This modern classic will preview March 25 and 26, celebrate its Gala Opening March 27, and will run through April 11.
Robert Harling�s modern classic takes place in Truvy�s beauty salon, and chronicles the friendship of a group of southern women through the hilarious turns, triumphs, and trials of life. A homage to the strength of Southern womanhood, Steel Magnolias debuted in 1987 and quickly moved to Broadway for an extended hit run. In 1987, Steel Magnolias was made into a highly successful film, and has been a mainstay of American theatres ever since.
The Texas Repertory Theatre Co. is located at 14243 Stuebner Airline Rd. in the new Northwoods Plaza. Performances are Thursday at 7:30 pm, Friday and Saturday at 8 pm, and 3 pm on Sunday afternoons. Tickets are $25-$45 and can be purchased by calling the Texas Rep box office at 281-583-7573. For more information, log onto www.texreptheatre.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy-Fair girls finish season in state semis Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas, News Posted March 9, 2009
The Cy-Fair High School girls basketball team�s bid for back-to-back state titles fell short in the state semifinals on Friday with a 49-39 loss to Mansfield Summit at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin.
Bobcats junior Chiney Ogwumike led the team with 30 points and 14 rebounds in the defeat.
Cy-Fair wraps up its 2008-2009 season with a 35-4 record. The Bobcats won the District 15-5A title with no losses, and finish as Class 5A state semifinalists. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Easter Bunny arrives at Willowbrook Mall Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 6, 2009
Grab your baskets, the Easter Bunny is hitting the trail and at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 21, he�ll be at Willowbrook Mall, snuggled in his springtime garden in the JCPenney courtyard, ready to visit and pose for photos. He�ll be at the shopping center until 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 11 when he hurries off to deliver eggs for Easter Sunday morning.
Find the Easter bunny in his bright and colorful springtime nest at the following hours:
Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; and Sunday from Noon - 6 p.m.
The Easter bunny takes scheduled carrot breaks throughout the day. Monday through Saturday his breaks are from 1- 2 p.m. and 5 - 6 p.m. On Sunday, he takes one break from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
There�s no charge to stop by and visit with the Easter Bunny. Visitors can choose to have a commemorative photo taken by one of the Bunny Photographers. A variety of photo packages, ranging from $15.99 to $45.99 are available for purchase.
Willowbrook Mall will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 12. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Nursing Students from Mexico Visit LSC-CyFair for a Month Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 5, 2009
Four nursing students from the Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi recently gained insight into Houston�s health care system and Lone Star College-CyFair�s nursing program. Through a prestigious and competitive Fund for the Improvement of Post-secondary Education (FIPSE) grant that LSC-CyFair received, funding is provided for an exchange program between Canada, Mexico and the United States. Last month, the UASLP students Nancy Zapata Vazquez, Carmina Delgadillo Azpeitia, Abelina Hernandez and Leticia Galvan Hernandez along with their teacher Olivia Alejandra Garcia Medina, observed LSC-CyFair campus life, attended nursing classes and clinical at area hospitals and took in some city sights, such as the museum�s Body World exhibition. As the visitors completed their last week at LSC-CyFair, they gave a presentation on their university, such as the campus features, faculty, programs of study and costs, as well as their hometown in Mexico, such as the types of health services, food, public transportation and traditions. They also compared San Luis Potosi to their experience here and then fielded questions from LSC-CyFair nursing students. This summer and next year students from across the Lone Star College System will become exchange students in Canada and Mexico as part of the FIPSE grant. Joining Ugalde as a host family for this year�s UASLP visitors were LSC-CyFair�s Christina Hagerty, Director of Sonography; Mary Anne Kelly, Division Operations Manager; Beatrice Apanda, Program Development and Corporate Training Staff Assistant II; and Cynthia Griffith, Dean of Health and Behavioral Sciences. For information on applying for the nursing student travel experience to Canada and Mexico, contact Ugalde at Margaret.R.Ugalde@lonestar.edu. For information on the LSC-CyFair nursing programs, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Bakondy named new principal at Ault Elementary Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 5, 2009
Janet Bakondy, an assistant principal at Jowell Elementary School, was named the new principal at Ault Elementary School�a position that will take effect on March 23.
Bakondy replaces Donna Guthrie, who was selected to open Swenke Elementary School (No. 50) in the 2009-2010 school year.
Bakondy has 14 years of educational experience, all in CFISD. She taught for seven years at Ault before taking over as instructional specialist for two years. She then served a year as instructional specialist at Keith Elementary School before accepting the assistant principal position at Jowell in 2005-2006.
She received her Bachelor of Science in Education from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania and her Master of Education from Prairie View A&M University. She holds certifications in Elementary Self-Contained (1-8), Special Education (PK-12) and Principal (EC-12).
�I am very excited to be returning to Ault Elementary,� Bakondy said. �I have lived in the Fairfield community for 18 years and my three children attended school there. It is an honor and privilege to be reunited with the Ault family and to serve as their principal. I look forward to working with the students, staff, parents and community.� Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Woods boys advance to regional tournament Cy-Fair News - Cypress, Texas Posted March 5, 2009
The Cypress Woods High School boys basketball team defeated Tomball, 68-66, in the Region II-5A quarterfinal to advance to the Region II Tournament this weekend at Hewitt Midway High School (8200 Mars Dr.) in Waco.
The Wildcats (33-3) will face DeSoto in the regional semifinal on Friday at 8 p.m. The winner will face the winner between Klein Collins and Mesquite in the regional final on Saturday at 4 p.m.
�Obviously we�re very excited to be where we are,� said Cypress Woods head coach Chris Draudt. �Being a new school, it�s a pretty big accomplishment for our kids. We have a great group of kids, and what makes us good is that we�re very balanced and very unselfish. We expect to go up there and play well and have a good chance to win a game or two.� Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy Creek Silverados win regional awards Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 4, 2009
The Cypress Creek High School Silverados drill team won several awards at the Showmakers Greater Houston Spectacular, held at Klein Forest High School on Saturday, Feb. 14.
The Silverados took home several awards, including Choreography, Technique, Precision, Creative Costuming, Best in Category for Kick and Modern, Best in Class for Extra Large Team and Line of Champions. The Military Officers were awarded Best in Class for Officer Line and brought home awards in Choreography, Precision and Technique. They were the overall winners in the Extra Large Officer Line Category. The Creek Elite Jazz Company brought home first place and the Social Officer line placed third. Twenty-eight Cypress Creek Division One Soloists competed on Saturday. Junior captain Jessika Palmer placed second overall in the solo competition and colonel Brittany Heflin was named Miss Greater North Houston and placed first overall at the competition.
Recycling offered at Health Expo Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 4, 2009
CFISD is encouraging the community to start saving recyclable products now in preparation for the Cy-Fair Community Health Expo, scheduled for Saturday, May 16 at the Berry Center. The Expo will feature convenient drive-up and drop-off recycling sponsored by CFISD�s recycler, Abitibi Paper Retriever, as well as Houston Computer Recycling and Sustainable Living in Houston. The recycling point will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Parking Lot B on the east side of the Berry Center (8877 Barker Cypress Road). Visitors can recycle without even leaving their vehicles, as volunteers from Sustainable Living will carry the recyclables from cars to bins in a hassle-free setup. Accepted recyclables include paper, plastic (Plastic Identification codes 1, 2, 5 or 7, indicated within recycling arrows on plastic products), metal, batteries, household electronics including computers, faxes, phones and old or broken eyeglasses. Items that will not be accepted are: televisions, car batteries, microwaves, appliances, copiers or medical equipment. The recycling drop-off is an easy opportunity for the Cy-Fair community to protect the environment through conservation. In 2007-2008, the district recycled 5,866,000 pounds of paper, saving 49,861 trees and 8,797 cubic yards of landfill. Additionally, CFISD�s Recycling Center recycled 440,406 pounds of cardboard, 60,296 pounds of steel cans, 6,956 pounds of aluminum cans and 3,853 pounds of wooden pallets. For more information on the Health Expo, please visit http://cyfairhealthexpo.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Women�s Month Activities throughout March Open to the Community Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted March 4, 2009
Join Lone Star College-CyFair throughout March for activities that celebrate, teach and empower women such as for a women�s health fair, international women�s discussions, vocal performances, films, library displays and more. Windows on the World, whose mission is to facilitate a series of events designed to enrich the LSC-CyFair Community, will sponsor the 2009 Women�s Month with this year�s theme of �Breaking Boundaries: Contributions of Women - Past, Present and Future.� The three weeks of activities on the Barker Cypress campus kicked off with opening ceremonies March 2 and concludes March 31 at 11 a.m. in the College Center. Among the ongoing activities held throughout the month are the Bosque Gallery�s �Encaustic Painting Exhibition� and the library�s �Women�s Work� display. In addition, Phi Theta Kappa students are selling orange bracelets inscribed with the word �Woman� in the top six languages spoken at LSC-CyFair to raise funds for the Susan and Jeff Edwards Scholarship for Single Mothers. Other activities include films, discussions and vocalists. The four films highlighting stories about and/or written by women are �Down With Love�, �La France Divis�e / France Divided�, �Whale Rider� and �Iron-Jawed Angels.� Discussion topics are �Women in Afghanistan�, �Asian and Latin American Women�s Quest for International Education�, �Women in Politics� and a women�s symposium that covers various issues. There will be a vocal performance featuring Fallon Franklin and a performance of French �chansons� with Deborah Boily. The Women�s Health Fair is set for March16 � 19 with daily guest speakers covering such topics as a new Breast MRI procedure, signs and symptoms of strokes as well as fitness and wellness success programs. A blood mobile will also be on campus March 20. For information on the 2009 Women�s Month, go online to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/womensmonth. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
LSC-CyFair International Students Learn More Outside of Classroom
Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted March 2, 2009
Sometimes the most valuable learning takes place outside the classroom and without a textbook in sight. Such was the case when 13 international students � armed simply with a notebook and pen, the willingness to really listen, and the universal language of compassion � signed on for a unique pilot program last spring at Lone Star College-CyFair.
In her Service Learning class, Associate Professor Sharon Bippus matches each of her English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students with an elderly resident of a local assisted living center. Through weekly interactions, students are afforded the opportunity to practice listening and speaking skills with the ultimate objective of writing the biography of his/her senior partner.
As this year�s students are introduced to the guidelines and objectives for the semester, they await one important event with excitement and a note of apprehension - that moment, when each resident reaches into the paper sack to draw a name of his/her match. While the initial introduction was met with a bit of anxiety for most students, the final day of class was marked with emotion rarely displayed in a traditional learning environment.
�We had decided to have a formal ceremony in which each student would present his/her book to the senior partner,� Bippus explained. �First, one of our ESL students performed a Korean dance in a beautiful costume. Then each student and his/her partner were called to the front of the room. The student said a few words of thanks to the senior. It was very touching, and everyone in the room could feel the emotion. It was the perfect way to end the semester.�
Following the success of this Service Learning class, Bippus is repeating the effort this spring.
For information on Service Learning courses at LSC-CyFair, call 281-290-3289 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/servicelearning. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
LSC-CyFair Students in Delta Epsilon Chi Advance to Nationals Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted March 2, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair recently hosted the Delta Epsilon Chi (DEX) Texas Career Development Conference at the Barker Cypress campus, which drew students from LSC-CyFair, Texas A&M University, University of Houston, University of North Texas, Northwood University and Temple College. The LSC-CyFair team of Donald Smith, from left, and Ronnie Maduzia placed first in the Business to Business Marketing event while Frances Bailey and Dylan Smith took third in Business Ethics. Both teams will be advancing to national competition in April in Anaheim, California. In addition Donald Smith was elected as 2009-2010 Texas State President. For information on the DEX student organization or college, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Laura Perry takes over as principal at Thornton MS Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted March 2, 2009
Laura Perry, the director of instruction at Cypress Creek High School, has been named the principal at Thornton Middle School, a position she will take over on Monday, March 2. Perry has 23 years of experience in education. She began her teaching career in Humble ISD in 1985 as a fifth-grade Title I reading teacher and transferred to Aldine ISD in 1987, where she taught seventh- and eighth-grade reading and English. She joined the CFISD team as a reading teacher at Truitt Middle School in 1990 and was promoted to assistant principal in 1993. In 2000 she taught fifth grade at Hancock Elementary School and was named Spotlight Teacher of the Year in 2001-2002. Perry served as the director of instruction at Campbell Middle School from 2002-2005 and opened Spillane Middle School in 2005. In 2007 she became the director of instruction at Cypress Creek High School. She has also served as a summer school principal for two years. Perry received her Bachelor of Science from Sam Houston State University and her Master of Education from Stephen F. Austin University. She holds the following certifications: Elementary Self-Contained (1-8), Elementary Reading (1-8), Elementary English (1-8), Supervisor (PK-12) and Mid-Management Administrator (PK-12). �I feel blessed and honored to be joining the Thornton family,� Perry said. �I have heard wonderful things about the Patriot staff and student body. There are many successful programs in place at Thornton, and the staff is committed to helping each and every student succeed. I look forward working with the staff, students, parents, and community.� Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Art for the Hungry Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted March 2, 2009
Once upon a time, 12 years ago, Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) created Art for the Hungry, an event where community groups unite to build sculptures out of 1,000 or more non-perishable food items. The fanciful and fun creations are displayed at Willowbrook Mall, where visitors can admire the food sculptures and vote for favorites. Each year, the theme is different, but the challenge is the same: fight hunger by raising money and food donations for NAM�s Survival over the Summer program, which helps feed hungry children during the summer months when students are not receiving free breakfast and lunch in school. In 2008, Art for the Hungry raised more than $136,000 in monetary and food donations. This year, the theme of the 12th annual Art for the Hungry is �A Fairytale World,� and the event will fill Willowbrook Mall with storybook scenes depicting cartoon characters that everyone knows and loves. The teams will build their sculptures at the shopping center on the night of Sunday, March 22. During mall hours beginning Monday, March 23 through Sunday, April 5, the art will be on display and visitors to Willowbrook Mall are encouraged to vote for their favorite by making a monetary donation. The evening of Sunday, April 5, winners will be selected from three categories, including School Groups, Community Organizations/Businesses and Churches. The sculpture with the most monetary donations will be honored as the People�s Choice and NAM will award the Judges� Golden Can Award. For information on NAM or Survival over the summer or to sign up a team, contact Tanecia Snid at 281-885-4608 or visit namonline.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Students place in Middle School Spelling Bee Cy-Fair- Cypress, Texas News Posted February 26, 2009
Arnold Middle School eighth-grade student Hannah Bonner won first place by correctly spelling the word �loquacious� in the annual district-wide Middle School Spelling Bee, held at the Instructional Support Center on Tuesday, Feb. 17. Labay Middle School eighth-grade student Kaylie Brown was the district�s runner-up. Both Bonner and Brown will compete in the Houston PBS Regional Spelling Bee, scheduled for March 28. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
14 qualify for sport stacking worlds Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 25, 2009
Fourteen CFISD students qualified for the World Sport Stacking Association (WSSA) World Championships at the third annual Southern Regional Sport Stacking Championships, recently held at the Berry Center. The following Sampson Elementary School students will compete at the World Championships, to be held April 18-19 at the Denver Coliseum in Denver, Colo.: � Division 5: Rachel Martin � 3-3-3 Stack (5.00), 3-6-3 Stack (7.72) and Cycle (23.59); � Division 7: The Sampson Sharks (Colby Brennan, Alejandro Montoya, Danica Gubic and Blake Weldon) � Timed Relay (27.49); � Division 8: The Sampson Chargers (Conner Byrd, Josiah McWhorter, Garrett Martin and Benjamin He) � Timed Relay (21.11); � Division 9/10: The Sampson Blazers (Nirav Lalsinghani, Alex Niall, Austin Gallagher and Christian Taulli) � Timed Relay (21.81); and � Division 11: Allison French.
Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
LSC-CyFair Graduate Living His Firefighting Dream Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 25, 2009
Dustin Woolbright not only became a Houston firefighter thanks to Lone Star College-CyFair�s Fire Academy, but he says he also became a man.
�My parents are divorced and while I have a half brother, we were never close and he never lived with me,� said Woolbright, who found a second family in the academy. �(The LSC-CyFair program) helped me develop as a person.�
And his time at LSC-CyFair was one of the best times in his firefighting career, even though he didn�t get paid for it.
�The camaraderie and having the guys around; people you trust to not only go into a burning building, but studying with them, hanging out with them, weekends playing football - we just did everything together,� he said. �The instructors also made it fun and I still keep in touch with them.�
He spent nine months in the LSC-CyFair Fire Academy and three months in the EMT program in preparation for a firefighting career. Woolbright admits working and then going to school in the academy�s night class took its toll on him, but he was learning something every day and enjoying it.
�The most challenging part is the physical endurance. You go into the four-story burn building and you�re pulling around dummies, 100 pounds of gear on and it�s hot,� he said. �You can�t really be ready for it no matter how much you work out in the gym � it�s totally different.�
However, in the end, this 2007 LSC-CyFair graduate felt prepared to learn the HFD way of doing things. The second youngest in the HFD academy, he graduated seventh of 40 and has been a firefighter with HFD Station 28, one of the city�s busiest stations, for more than a year now.
As for Woolbright�s future plans, he is taking online LSC-CyFair courses in pursuit of an associate�s degree in fire science. He is following in the footsteps of his father, a retired HFD firefighter, and he is living his childhood dream.
�I�m in it for 30 or 40 years or however long I can go,� said Woolbright, who is also engaged to be married. �Firefighting is fun � every day is different. You never know exactly what you will be doing.�
LSC-CyFair offers an associate�s degree and a basic structural firefighter certificate through the Fire Science Technology Program as well as EMT basic and paramedic tracks through the Emergency Medical Services Program. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Partners in Education win state awards Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 23, 2009
Three CFISD Partners in Education (PIE) business and volunteer award winners won Crystal Awards at the Texas Association of Partners in Education (TAPE) Awards Banquet on Jan. 27 in Austin. Yeager Elementary School volunteer Don Bollwinkle won an Individual Partnership Award in the Wisdom category. Bollwinkle works with bilingual and ESL students every Tuesday and Thursday morning, and has helped the students demonstrate high achievement on TAKS tests. Clariza Rath, who has implemented specialized tutoring programs at Frazier, Metcalf and Bane elementary schools, won an Individual Partnership Award in the Role Model category. Rath said she understands the need for parental involvement at all campuses and has supported the district VIPS Global program by reaching out to volunteers and recruiting them to be involved in schools wherever the need is greatest. Holbrook Elementary School partner CH2MHill Engineering won a Business Partnership Award in the Career Education category. Each year, CH2MHill hosts an Engineer's Week during which 12-14 members of the company perform hands-on science activities with Holbrook students, introducing them to the world of engineering. The company also raises funds annually to purchase at least 25 bikes and helmets for students during Christmas. In addition to mentoring, CH2MHill helps support a variety of education programs within the school. CFISD will recognize the seven district award winners and the three state award winners during the April school Board meeting and during the April 30 VIPS General Meeting, held during National Volunteer Month. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Health Expo to feature CPR and First Aid Training Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 23, 2009
The Cy-Fair Community Health Expo, scheduled for Saturday, May 16 at the Berry Center, will offer a CPR and First Aid class presented by the American Heart Association (AHA). With nearly 80 percent of cardiac arrests occurring outside the hospital, it is important for our Cy-Fair community to have the knowledge and skills to act quickly and confidently in an emergency. The AHA HeartSaver/Automated External Defibrillator (AED) program will include lessons on adult/child CPR with mask, adult/child choking and adult/child AED. Participants will learn and practice skills that require working on hands and knees, bending, standing and lifting. Participants with physical conditions will need to inform one of the instructors prior to the training. The course will be offered from 9 a.m. to noon and repeated from 1 to 4 p.m. Participants must be at least 15 years old. The cost for the CPR training is $15 and the First Aid class is free. In order to provide the best learning experience, pre-registration is required. Please pre-register by calling Janet Ward at 281-517-2043. Deadline for pre-registration is Friday, May 8, 2009. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
�Core Fridays� Program Offers New Option for Students Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 23, 2009
Lone Star College-CyFair can save students even more time and money through a new one-day-a-week �Core Fridays� program now available.
This new program is designed to allow students to take up to four core classes (or 12 semester hours) toward an associate�s degree on campus, once a week, in one day. Not only are classes scheduled between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., students also have access to a full range of support services including tutoring and a world-class library as well as staff assistance in student services and division offices.
�More than 50 percent of our students work while they attend school. This program provides an opportunity for them to do both successfully,� said Vice President of Student Learning Dr. Feleccia Moore-Davis. �Additionally, many Houston area businesses also allow flex time for employees, making Core Fridays and optimal way to earn course credits, earn a degree and start a new career.�
Fall 2009 core classes include English, math, history, government, kinesiology, speech and economics. Other courses will be available future semesters. Fall registration begins April 2. For information, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Don�t Miss the Quack Attack Film Festival Feb. 27 at LSC-CyFair Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 23, 2009
Whose film will win the grand prize at this year�s Quack Attack Film Festival? Find out when the 12 category and overall winners are announced Feb. 27.
�Come enjoy a night of fun and imagination at Lone Star College-CyFair,� said David Potts, video production professor. �We will show the �best of� among all the five-minute film submissions and the winning filmmakers will be unveiled.�
The festival is open to everyone; however, a jury of entertainment industry professionals will actually choose the winners based on: Creativeness, Sound, Cinematography and Special Effects.
Film makers are competing in a variety of categories - Drama, Comedy, Public Service Announcements, Action, Documentary, Commercial/Advertising, Horror, Science Fiction, Romance, Animation, News Packages and Music Video.
�The LSC-CyFair Video Production Club is hosting this film festival as a way to give back to the community,� said Potts, who teaches Video Studio Production; Lighting for Video or Film, and Digital Video. �In addition, the festival gives future filmmakers of America a chance to participate, compete and win an award.�
The film festival will be held at 7 p.m. in the Conference Center on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. For event information, call 281-290-3292 or e-mail cyfairvideoclub@lonestar.edu. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Panteras successful at January Jubilee Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 20, 2009
The Cypress Springs High School drill team, the Panteras, kicked off their competition season by winning eight awards at the Friendswood High School January Jubilee on Saturday, Jan. 17. The Panteras� officers�Kelsey Harris, captain; Rachel Szitas, first lieutenant; Dana Harper, senior lieutenant; and Ellen Dutton and Breezy Miller, junior lieutenants�received first-place awards for the Officer Open, Lyrical and Jazz dances. They also received Outstanding Showmanship and Technique awards for their jazz routine and an Outstanding choreography award for their lyrical routine. They received Sweepstakes awards in three dances and the Winner�s Circle (high point award). The team of 54 girls was also one of 10 drill teams to showcase its contest routines at the Berry Center on Jan. 31. The Panteras performed their team Kick, Pom and Elite Jazz routines as well as three officer routines. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Women�s Month Activities throughout March Open to the Community Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 20, 2009
Join Lone Star College-CyFair throughout March for activities that celebrate, teach and empower women such as for a women�s health fair, international women�s discussions, vocal performances, films, library displays and more.
Windows on the World, whose mission is to facilitate a series of events designed to enrich the LSC-CyFair Community, will sponsor the 2009 Women�s Month with this year�s theme of �Breaking Boundaries: Contributions of Women - Past, Present and Future.�
The three weeks of activities on the Barker Cypress campus kick off with opening ceremonies March 2 at 6 pm. in the Center for the Arts and concludes March 31 at 11 a.m. in the College Center.
Among the ongoing activities held throughout the month are the Bosque Gallery�s �Encaustic Painting Exhibition� and the library�s �Women�s Work� display. In addition, Phi Theta Kappa students are selling orange bracelets inscribed with the word �Woman� in the top six languages spoken at LSC-CyFair to raise funds for the Susan and Jeff Edwards Scholarship for Single Mothers.
Other activities include films, discussions and vocalists. The four films highlighting stories about and/or written by women are �Down With Love�, �La France Divis�e / France Divided�, �Whale Rider� and �Iron-Jawed Angels.� Discussion topics are �Women in Afghanistan�, �Asian and Latin American Women�s Quest for International Education�, �Women in Politics� and a women�s symposium that covers various issues. There will be a vocal performance featuring Fallon Franklin and a performance of French �chansons� with Deborah Boily.
The Women�s Health Fair is set for March16 � March 19 with daily guest speakers covering such topics as a new Breast MRI procedure, signs and symptoms of strokes as well as fitness and wellness success programs. A blood mobile will also be on campus March 20.
For information on the 2009 Women�s Month, go online to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/womensmonth. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Former Katy and Cy-Fair ISD art teacher featured artist at Art Gallery Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 20, 2009
Lois Morton, a former Katy and Cy-Fair art teacher, is the feature artist for March at the co-op Green House Gallery 716 West Alabama.�Rites of Spring� is the theme at the co-op gallery and her new whimsical collages features a family of whooping cranes feeding along the Gulf.After a visit to the bird sanctuary to see a few of the 270 birds in the flock, Lois was inspired to create a mother, father and chick and wishes to donate a portion of her sales to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.The cranes eat blue crabs and clams, but with the drought, food is scarcer this year because the rivers aren�t flowing enough fresh water to aide in the food supply for the birds.After feeding at the refuge for 6 months, the family of cranes will return at the end of March to Canada where they nest. The boat out of Rockport takes you up the Intracoastal Canal to see the winter habitat of these territorial birds.
Lois�s bird collages are colorful and fanciful. Her patterns are created from a variety of papers and textures printed from shoes to leaves.Several of the co-op artists use recycled materials from discarded metal signs from Hurricane Ike,jewelry from computer parts, and sewing bobbins.All the artists have a love of nature and their art includes ceramic birdbaths, watercolors of cats, and clay sculptures. Other recycled products used are �oops� paint from local stores. Artists are Mina Agah, Adine Rotman, Miquel Correll,Jonatan Lopez, P.A. Mueller, Monique Weston, Helena Gijsbers van Wijk, Joe Carrell, andKristy Allmon. Enjoy the �Rites of Spring� at the evening reception Friday March 6 from 6-9 p.m. and through the month of March, Thurs- Sunday from 11-6 p.m.greenhouseartgallery.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Cy-Fair School Green/Yellow Paper Recycling Bins Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 19, 2009
THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW
Many Cy-Fair residents are unaware that these bins bring money to the individual schools where the bins are placed.
The bins are visible from the street for several reasons. Unlike trash bins, the recycling bins are intended to be in a safe location and in full view from the street - for ALL to participate.
Cy-Fair residents who do not have children attending Cy-Fair schools are rarely aware that the bins are not just limited to school participation. In fact, the most successful schools are those with a Recycling Coordinator at the school who promotes the program both through reminders going home to parents and by reaching out to the community to drop their paper off at the bins in the schools efforts to raise funds.
The monies can be spent on anything the school needs, but was maybe cut from budgets such as playground equipment.
The paper collected within the school cuts down the cost paid to the trash company to empty the "trash bins". This of course would apply to churches and other non-profits. *THERE IS NEVER A COST TO EMPTY THESE RECYCLING BINS, BUT IT DOES PAY TO RECYCLE!
Thank you for taking the time to hopefully understand that the impact of GOING GREEN goes even deeper than saving our earth.
Editor�s Note: This was submitted by reader Debbie Aymond in response to our Going Green article in the new Spring issue of Cy-Fair Magazine.
Cypress Christian School Students Provide �Socks for Little Souls� Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 19, 2009
Fifth graders at Cypress Christian School collected socks in February to donate to children at the Baptist Missions Center. In addition, the students made valentines for the children at the center. The �Socks for Little Souls� project began when the fifth grade classes were asked to find a way to share God�s love with those less fortunate for Valentine�s Day.
The mission of Cypress Christian School is �to equip students to engage and impact their world for Jesus Christ.�Community service projects like �Socks for Little Souls� help to encourage students to make a difference in the lives of others both now and throughout their lifetimes.
Cypress Christian School is located at 11123 Cypress N. Houston Rd. at Jones Road and serves families of K-12 students in northwest Houston.For more information, call 281-469-7745 or visit the website at www.CypressChristian.org. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Check out the talent of Lone Star College-CyFair students using an ancient method of painting showcased at the Bosque Gallery Encaustic Painting Exhibition Feb. 24 through March 27.
Encaustic painting combines colored pigment with hot wax as a binder. This ancient method of painting fits a wide array of applications that include surface treatment of sculptural forms, luminous transparencies, opaque impasto and limitless mixed media capabilities.
Many of today�s contemporary artists are pioneering a resurgence of encaustic painting, including a wax encaustic painting group in Texas known as Texas-Wax. The local chapter, Houston-Wax, maintains a blog site at texaswaxhouston.blogspot.com.
Join Robert McGehee, visual arts professor, and students in his Continuing Education encaustic painting class at the 4:30 p.m. opening reception Feb. 26.
The Bosque Gallery is located in the Center for the Arts building on the Barker Cypress campus at 9191 Barker Cypress. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday.
For gallery information call 832-482-1038 or go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu/bosquegallery. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
All About Music & Arts Announces Grand Opening Line Up Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 19, 2009
All About Music & Arts (AAMA) has announced the opening of the Satellite Room, the first family-friendly concert venue in northwest Houston and part of AAMA�s new division, the Satellite Music Group, Feb. 28.Opening night performances will be held by The Bloody Mushrooms, A Shot For Favor, Bayou Monster and The Red Line.Doors will open at 7 pm with a cover charge of $10.The venue will host free performances by the music school�s �club Rock� bands at 2 pm on opening day.
AAMA�s �clubRock� program provides school-age students with no experience to learn the in�s and out�s of forming successful musical groups.Every band is paired with an experienced band coach who mentors them on every aspect of the music business, including song arrangement, stage performance, and team work.
�Our goal has always been to provide top-notch music education to our students.Luckily, we have never had to advertise.Word of mouth has been our biggest asset,� said Linda Paredes, the company Founder and President.
Curless to receive Advocate for Education award Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 18, 2009
Cypress Falls High School paraprofessional Michelle Curless will receive an Advocate for Education 2009 Bridge to the Future Award at the Phi Delta Kappa (PDK) Texas Lone Star Chapter banquet, to be held at the University of Houston Hilton on Feb. 27. Along with Cy-Fair High School DI helping teacher Kay Noshari, Curless was nominated for the award by a fellow colleague. In the nomination, Curless� colleague wrote that she prioritizes student learning and re-assesses each student�s growth in the learning process: �In her job capacity as paraprofessional for CFISD, Michelle goes the extra mile on a daily basis, not just through helping teachers maintain positive classroom environment, but by being an exceptional support system for students who seem to get lost in the system. One such example of this kind of support occurred last semester when a student struggled to cope with a difficult learning environment. Michelle not only intervened and made a positive difference in the life of this student, but she was also able to help him better manage his schedule and writing activities.�
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee 20th Annual AIDS Walk Houston Grand Marshal Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 18, 2009
AIDS Foundation Houston (AFH), in partnership with Chevron, is pleased to announce Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Leeas the Grand Marshal for the 20th Annual AIDS Walk Houston event on Sunday, March 15.
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is serving her seventh term as a member of the United States House of Representatives. She represents the 18th Congressional District of Texas, centered in Houston. For the past five years, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee has participated in the Walk, becoming a voice for AFH and for HIV/AIDS issues by addressing the opening ceremony crowds from onstage. In March 2007, the Congresswoman secured a Certificate of Congressional Recognition for AFH and AIDS Walk Houston.
AIDS Walk Houston is the largest HIV/AIDS fundraiser of its kind in Texas. Funds raised will help AFH and 14 other HIV/AIDS service organizations provide housing, testing, food, medical care, prevention education, counseling, pediatric programs and job training to thousands of Houston community members.
This fun, beneficial, non-competitive 5k pledge walk is open to the public. No registration fee is charged and incentive prizes are available for $125, $250, $500 and $1,000+ fundraising levels. Corporate, community, social and school walk team participation is encouraged.
Join Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee on Sunday, March 15, in Sam Houston Park, Bagby at Lamar in downtown Houston, and walk for AIDS awareness, prevention, and to give hope to those living and affected by the disease. On-site registration begins at 8am, opening ceremonies at 9a.m., and the 20th Annual AIDS Walk Houston steps off at 10am. To register for or donate to the 20th Annual AIDS Walk Houston or for more information, call 713-403-WALK (9255) or visit www.AIDSWalkHouston.org. Dogs are not allowed at Sam Houston Park due to city ordinance. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Pageant for children, teens and young adults March 7 at Willowbrook Mall Cy-Fair � Cypress, Texas News Posted February 18, 2009
Saturday, March 7 is the time for area children, teens and adults to shine when Willowbrook Mall hosts the Sunburst U.S.A. Beauty Pageant and Baby Contest. The pageant, which begins at 6:30 p.m., is a preliminary event to the Sunburst State and International Finals. Sunburst, in its 31st year of hosting pageants, is one of the only national pageant systems to reward every participant with a trophy. In addition to the trophy, some participants may win crowns, sashes or banners. The Sunburst pageant will be held in Future Court behind Helzberg Diamonds and Toni & Guy and is open to boys and girls ages infant to three, and girls ages four to 27. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. and continues until the 6:30 p.m. start time. Before Saturday, March 7, applications will be available at the Willowbrook Mall Customer Service, located in Center Court near Sephora, or online at www.sunburstbeauty.com. The entry fee is $40. For more information, individuals can call 570-654-3785 or visit www.sunburstbeauty.com. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
13 wrestlers advance to state championships Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 17, 2009
CFISD had 13 wrestlers place in the top five at the Region III meet in Allen, qualifying for the UIL Wrestling Championships at the Austin ISD Delco Center on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 27-28.
In the boys' tournament, Cy-Fair High School sophomore Jake Ekster won first place in the 125-pound weight class. Langham Creek High School sophomore Jacob Ahquin (third place, 119 pounds) and Cypress Creek High School senior Zach Godbold (fourth place, 145 pounds) also qualified for state.
In the girls' tournament, Cy-Fair senior Julie Smith was regional champ in the 128-pound class and Cypress Creek freshman Anna McAleavey was regional champ in the 119-pound class.
Other state qualifiers were Cypress Ridge High School senior Abigail Molina (second place, 95 pounds); Cypress Creek junior Courtney Richardson (third place, 215 pounds); Cypress Ridge junior Ariana Junkar (third place, 110 pounds); Cypress Ridge junior Gwen Haley (third place, 102 pounds); Cypress Falls High School junior Tamany Soucie (fourth place, 185 pounds); Cypress Ridge junior Indya Randall (fourth place, 165 pounds); Cypress Creek senior Wendy Cortes (fourth place, 138 pounds); and Cypress Falls sophomore Amber Stokes (fourth place, 119 pounds).
The Association for Better Community Schools in conjunction with Be An Angel Fund and Harris County, Precinct 4 is previewing the special barrier free playground which will be built in February/early March on the Jones Road side of Matzke Park which is at the corner of Jones Road and Grant Road. The structure is being built to exact requirements to meet the needs of wheel chair bound children. It will allow children of all abilities to play together. This is Phase 1 of the projected project. Money for Phase 1,$126,000,was funded by private donations from civic organizations, individuals, philanthropic organizations, business, and individuals. It reflects the desire to provide healthy play for those children who are underserved-the handicapped. This structure will be unique to this area, the next closest being in Humble, and another to be constructed in Katy.
Harris County, Precinct 4 will begin construction of a parking lot on the Jones Road side of the park along with a building which will provide restrooms. The playground will be within a short distance of the newly built Butterfly Garden Learning Center which was completed by the Norchester Garden Club. The Garden is an official way station for migrating Monarch butterflies. Please watch for the structure's completion which is scheduled for the end of March when there will be an official dedication. Once complete, the structure will be available for play prior to its official dedication.
For further information please contact: Tracy Torma, President, Association for Better Community Schools (501c) 713-526-8509, tracy@torma.com, Marti Boone, Be An Angel Fund (501c) 281-219-3313, marti@BeAnAngel.org, Dennis Johnston, Harris County Precinct 4 Parks Director 281-353-8100 DJohnston@hcp4.net. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
NCL Chapter to Hold Dress Re-Sale for Boys & Girls Country
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted February 17, 2009 Start raiding your closet! We are now collecting formal/After 5 dresses and accessories for the Cypress Belles Dress Resale/Fundraiser. All proceeds will go to Boys and Girls Country. The Annual Dress Sale will be held Saturday, April 4, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Copperfield Church, 8350 Hwy 6 N. Find your perfect bargain dress for Prom, Cotillion, Corporate Event, Cruise, Quinceanera, or Homecoming. For more information, please contact Lisa Kintz at 832-630-7758 or Karen Shorten at 832-563-3089. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Teachers named Educators of Distinction Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 16, 2009
Eight CFISD teachers were named 2009 Claes Nobel Educators of Distinction for excellence in teaching by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS). Each year student members of NSHSS have an opportunity to select the teacher who has made the most significant contribution to their academic career. The teacher must be an outstanding role model and a positive influence, someone who has made a lasting difference in their lives by encouraging them to strive for excellence. Claes Nobel is the chairman of the NSHSS, which he formed in 2002 to extend to the youth of the world the Nobel family's legacy of encouraging excellence. CFISD's 2009 winners are as follows, with the nominating student in parentheses: Nancy Crawford, Jersey Village High School (Rasmey Chhin); Kim Fitzgerald, Cypress Falls High School (Kimberly Melara); Jessica Haddox, Cypress Creek High School (Kevin Nguyen); Jane Howard, Cypress Creek High School (Lesny Mejia); Eileen Newland, Cypress Springs High School (Zachary Winkelmann); Chris Rajadurai, Cypress Falls High School (Sara Meghji); Demetra Roane, Cypress Ridge High School (Mohammed Kenneh); and Antonia Wong, Cypress Creek High School (April Reynolds).
Youth Art Month Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 12, 2009
Marielia Gonzalez, Multiples
Four Kahla Middle School art students work was chosen to be a part of celebrating Youth Art Month, which takes place every March. Seventh-grade student Nhi Quachs collage Tropical Fish and eighth-grade student Anaiz Saldanas electronic image Dots and More Dots were chosen to be part of a traveling exhibit that will go around the Houston area. Seventh-grade student Yasmin Santibanezs painting Purplicious and eighth-grade student Marielia Gonzalezs color pencil drawing Multiples were named honorable mention. The students are taught by Crystal Andrus. They will be honored at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston on March 28.
Witthaus named director of new Alternative Learning Center Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 12, 2009
Wendi Witthaus, an assistant principal at the Alternative Learning Center, was named director for the Alternative Learning Center West on Friday, Feb. 6. The Alternative Learning Center West will open in the 2009-2010 school year. Witthaus has spent all 15 years of her educational career in CFISD. She taught for six years at Cook Middle School before serving one year as a mid-management intern and one-half year as an academic achievement specialist in special programs. She then took over her current role at the Alternative Learning Center, a position she has held for 7 years. Witthaus earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from Texas A&M University and her Master of Education from Prairie View A&M University. She is certified in Elementary Reading (1-6), Elementary English (1-6), Elementary Mathematics (1-6), Elementary Self-Contained (1-8), Elementary Social Studies Composite (1-8) and as Principal (EC-12).
LSC-CyFair Tennis Team Earns Texas Club of the Year Award Cy-Fair -Cypress, Texas News Posted February 10, 2009
Teamwork on and off the tennis court this fall paid off for the Lone Star College-CyFair Fighting Ducks when they earned the Club of the Year in Texas title.
The team received the award at the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Community Tennis Workshop in Austin in January. With this honor comes the opportunity to compete in the Tennis on Campus National Tournament, which National Intramural Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) sponsors in Arizona this April.
As the team worked to improve and hone their tennis skills in an effort to qualify for the national tournament, Coach Tim Sebesta and the Fighting Ducks also wanted to make an impact in their community.
Their usual goal is three or four projects, but last fall the team set and completed an ambitious semester goal of 12 community service activities, many of which involved helping underserved populations through fund-raising efforts, various donations and coaching.
In addition to such service to the college and community, the team competes in a minimum of seven dual matches a year against other Tennis on Campus teams. Each semester, they also sponsor an invitation tournament with teams from the Houston area. For information on the tennis team, call Sebesta at 281-290-3918. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Middle school students participate in Girls in Engineering Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 10, 2009
Sixty students from six CFISD middle schools will participate in ExxonMobils Girls in Engineering festival on Feb. 14 at the Spring Branch Education Center. The goal of the event is to create excitement and generate interest in the engineering field. Students from Spillane, Goodson, Thornton, Hopper, Kahla and Bleyl middle schools are slated to attend the festival. During the event, a panel of female speakers will discuss how they have applied math, science and engineering in their careers, the school curriculum they followed and obstacles they encountered along the way. Tentative speakers include KTRK meteorologist Casey Curry, NASA engineer Lisa Spence, a Houston-area college student majoring in engineering and various ExxonMobil engineers. Students will also be divided into age groups to participate in Discovery Workshops with ExxonMobil volunteers that will feature hands-on experiments. After the workshops, the students will reconvene for Professor Smarts Science Show, an entertaining performance that demonstrates the principles of physics through a combination of comedy and science.
Board approves summer school locations Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 10, 2009
The Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Board of Trustees recently approved the 2009 summer school plans for elementary, middle school and high school. Elementary summer school will be held at Andre', Bane, Birkes, Emmott, Hairgrove, Jowell, Moore, Reed, Sampson, Sheridan and Tipps elementary schools beginning Monday, June 15 and ending Thursday, July 2. Cook, Goodson and Labay middle schools were approved for original credit, make-up credit and ESL classes for sixth- through eighth-grade students. High school summer school will be located at Cypress Ranch and Cy-Fair high schools for original and make-up credit. The first summer session for original credit for both middle and high school students is scheduled for Wednesday, June 10 through Tuesday, June 30; the second session for original credit is scheduled for Monday, July 13 through Friday, July 31. The first summer session for make-up credit for both middle and high school students will be held on Monday, June 15 through Tuesday, June 30; the second session for make-up credit will be held on Monday, July 13 through Tuesday, July 28. Summer school will not be in session during the week of July 1 10. More information is available at all district campuses and on the districts website at www.cfisd.net.
Cook named director of instructional technology Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 9, 2009
Becky Cook, CFISDs elementary technology coordinator, was recently named the new director of instructional technology.With the December retirement of Nancy Lee, coordinator of instructional technology for secondary schools, the elementary and secondary technology coordinator positions were consolidated into one director position that took effect Jan. 5. Cook has 27 years of experience in public education. She taught four years at the elementary level in Pasadena ISD and Alief ISD prior to working in CFISD as a teacher at Bane Elementary School. She moved to Dean Middle School and taught five years before taking over as an assistant principal at Post Elementary School for two years. From there, Cook took over as elementary technology coordinator, a position she has held for 15 years. Cook received her Bachelor of Science from Lamar University and her Master in Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston. I am honored to have this opportunity to continue doing what I love; finding new and innovative ways to incorporate technology into the teaching and learning process, Cook said. I look forward to working with campus and district staff to find opportunities to give our digital natives the skills they need to be productive citizens in the 21st century workforce.
Two Students from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School Place in Archdiocesan Essay Contest Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 6, 2009
Two students from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School were honored on Jan. 30th for their essays on service.Sixth grader Mason Fecht and fourth grader Cristobella Durrette won first and second place, respectively, in their grades.
Mason Fecht was honored to be the only student in the archdiocese who was asked to read his essay at the ceremony.His essay was a poignantaccount of Craig Biggios service through the Sunshine Kids, an organization supported by Biggio, which touched the life of Masons sister, Aly, who died of Rhabdomyosarcoma when she was seven years old.
In addition to placing second in her age group, Cristobella Durrette was honored to be part of the entrance procession. Her essay was about a boy whom she befriended when he enrolled at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton after hurricane Katrina.
Both Mason and Cristobella received a certificate and a book about the adventures of St. Paul signed by Cardinal DiNardo.They join in celebrating service along with other students in Catholic schools throughout the archdiocese who have given in excess of 180,000 community service hours this year.
LSC-CyFair Student Earns Scholarship for Winning Essay Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 6, 2009
While Lone Star College-CyFair accounting student Janet Jackson sees knowledge as the key to freedom from the limitations of ignorance and always seeks learning opportunities, it took more than two decades to begin her college education.
I do not regret my 24-year delay. I believe it equipped me with knowledge of life that only experience can give, she wrote in a winning scholarship essay. Now actually attending classes is a dream come true. I feel as if I have been standing in a dark room and someone has come and turned on the light.
Jackson is one of five essay winners across LSCS, who earned a $1,000 scholarship for her essay on How My Community College Experience Has Influenced My Life.
A college education for her children was the goal of Jacksons mother, who dropped out of high school herself. Now in her second semester of college, Jackson is not only leading her own two daughters by example, but has her own goal - to earn an accounting degree and start her own business.
Higher Performing schools recognized for longevity of success Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 6, 2009
Eighteen CFISD schools were selected as Just for the Kids Higher Performing Schools in Texas. The schools were selected based on analyses conducted by the National Center for Educational Achievement (NCEA), sponsor of the Just for the Kids Campaign. As the foundation of NCEA's Best Practice research, the behaviors of these high-performers are compared with those of average-performing schools in order to determine the unique practices of the most successful campuses. The Just for the Kids Higher Performing list is based on three years of datafor the 2006-2008 school years. The schools on the list are an even more select group than Exemplary or Recognized schools. While about 37 percent of schools were identified as Exemplary or Recognized in 2008, NCEA analysis deemed only about 14 percent of schools to be high performing. Hamilton Middle School earned Higher Performing marks in all five subjects: Mathematics, Reading, Science, Writing and Social Studies. Other schools with multiple Higher Performing subjects are Aragon and Goodson middle schools (Science and Social Studies), Keith Elementary School (Mathematics and Science) and Copeland, Hamilton and Sampson elementary schools (Mathematics and Reading). The remaining Higher Performing schools are Cy-Fair High School and Dean Middle School in Social Studies; Ault, Bang, Emmott and Moore elementary schools in Mathematics; Danish, Hancock, Lowery and Millsap elementary schools in Science; and Yeager Elementary School in Reading.
Teacher named Educator of the Month by NHCRWA Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 4, 2009
The North Harris County Regional Water Authority (NHCRWA) named Alisha Cunningham, sixth grade secondary science curriculum specialist, itsEducator of the Month on Feb. 2. Cunningham was honored for her facilitation of the Mobile Teaching Lab water trailer program, which has visited every CFISD sixth-grade science class. The trailer, which is provided by the NHCRWA, includes a 3-D interactive mural on ground and surface water, as well as several interactive water conservation activities inside. In addition to the trailer, the Water Authority provides a novel titled Journey to Pansophigus to each of the 7,000-plus sixth-grade students in the district. The novel focuses on water conservation and ecology.
Mentor Training offered at Berry Center Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 4, 2009
The CFISD Partners in Education department will offer a Mentor Training session on Friday, Feb. 13 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Berry Center (8877 Barker Cypress Road). A mentor is a suitable role model committed to serve as a guide and as a friend while helping a student with his/her educational and personal development. The PIE department asks for a commitment of approximately one hour a week for a school year. Mentors will meet only on campus and during school hours. Appointment times may be flexible. To reserve a seat and materials, please send an email with your name and the date of the training to: vipsrsvp@cfisd.net. Reservations are required and available for adults only. For more information, call the PIE office at 281-894-3952.
Lone Star CyFair nominates Piper Professor nominee Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 4, 2009
Dr. Carolyn Ho, a past Lone Star College-CyFair Faculty Excellence award winner, has now been recommended for a state honor as the colleges Piper Professor nominee. Texas colleges and universities may nominate only one professor for this most prestigious Minnie Stevens Piper Foundation honor given in recognition of superior teaching at the college level. Piper Professors winners will be announced this spring. LSC-CyFair has had two winners since the colleges inception in 2002. For information on the college, go to CyFair.LoneStar.edu.
Sprague invited to EnergySmart Schools Roundtable Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 4, 2009
Roy Sprague, assistant superintendent of facilities and instruction, has been invited by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to attend EnergySmart Schools National Financing Roundtable, to be held Feb. 5 in Tampa, Fla. Sprague is one of only 15 experts in the field of financing high performance schools who was invited to the event, held one day prior to the Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI) High Performance School Symposium. The purpose of the Roundtable discussion is to bring together a select group of individuals with diverse knowledge of high performance school financing to discuss and develop innovative strategies, best practices and lessons learned from building energy-efficient schools.
Going Green is Easy with Hot, New Products at the Second Annual Cy-Fair Home and Garden Show Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 3, 2009
No time like the present to turn over a new leaf, and the Second Annual Cy-Fair Home and Garden Show will be brimming with hot, new products and ideas to make your dream home a green reality.
Angelique Grado of Green Builders Source will be one of several featured speakers at this exciting springtime event. Grado is bringing a truckload of the latest products to the Show, along with her eco-friendly expertise and ideas.
Other speakers at the Second Annual Cy-Fair Home and Garden Show include Peggy McGowen, ASID, CMKBD, kitchen and bath expert; LaVerne Williams, green architect; Michael Strong, co-host of Home-Improvement Hotline on the 9-5-0 AM; Randy Lemmon, GardenLine host, 740 AM NewsRadio; Michael Garfield, the High-Tech Texan, The 9-5-0 AM; Linda Durham, organizing guru; Brenda Beust Smith, Q&A with The Lazy Gardener; Charlotte Lampe, new products and interior design; Green lighting efficiency expert with Carol's Lighting; Dan Marshall, with Innovative Skylights & Attics; and John Ferguson, gardening with organics.
Show Information:
The Second Annual Cy-Fair Home & Garden Show features over 200 top-quality exhibitors and takes place Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 15, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at the Berry Center, 8877 Barker Cypress Road (corner of Barker-Cypress and West Road). FREE parking is provided by AM 740 KTRH.
Admission is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors, and children under 12 are admitted free.
$1.00 discount coupon can be downloaded at www.CyFairHomeAndGarden.com, where speaker schedule and a list of exhibitors is also available. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Livestock Show & Sale earnings, winners announced Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 3, 2009
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD raised almost $500,000 during the CFISD Livestock Show and Sale, held Jan. 29-31 at the CFISD Exhibit Center.
Amid hurricane recovery and a recent economic downturn, the community displayed an overwhelming amount of generosity in the live auction, freezer sale and additional monetary contributions to students.
The Premium Sale (live auction) raised $291,350, while the Freezer Sale (animals not placing high enough for the live auction) garnered $126,597. CFISD has received an additional $78,483.25 in contributions to studentsand are continuing to accept donations through Friday, Feb. 6. The total currently stands at $496,430.25.
Its a tribute to the fact that the community is doing everything they can to support the school district and the students in a time that is difficult for many people, said Denise Kubecka, secondary technology applications and business coordinator.
Houston Family Arts Center announces the opening of The Diary of Anne Frank
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted February 3, 2009
The Houston Family Arts Center (HFAC) today announced six performances of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play The Diary of Anne Frank, performed by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc.
Directed by Michael Steinbach, The Diary of Anne Frank opens for a two week limited engagement February 27 through March 8, 2009 at The Texas Repertory Theatre, 14243 Steubner Airline Road in Spring, Texas, just north of FM 1960 in the Northwood Plaza.
The Diary of Anne Frank features all local Houston actors: Katerina Pasat as Anne Frank, Francisco Philibert as Mr. Otto Frank, Karen Clayton as Mrs. Frank, Heather White as Margot Frank, Chris Roney as Mr. Van Daan, Nora Hahn as Mrs. Van Daan, Tyler Lokey as Peter Van Daan, Erin Brinkle as Miep Gies, David Branson as Mr. Dussell, and Alex Cochrane as Mr. Kraler.Megan Miller is understudy for Anne Frank and Colton Croft is understudy for Peter Van Daan.
Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Feb. 27 March 8, 2009. All performances take place at The Texas Repertory Theatre, 14243 Steubner Airline Road just north of FM 1960 in the Northwood Plaza.
Tickets are just $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for students. For tickets and additional information, call 281-685-6374 or select your seats online at www.houstonfac.com. Group prices are available for groups of more than 10.Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
District names asst. superintendent for educational support services Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 3, 2009
Dan McIlduff, the principal at A. Robison Elementary School, has been named the new assistant superintendent for educational support services, an appointment that will take effect this month.
McIlduff replaces Nadine Fidler, who retired in December.
McIlduff brings 30 years of experience to the special education department. His eight years of classroom teaching experience includes art, math, science, adaptive behavior and orthopedic handicapped. He has served as an assistant principal at Post Elementary School for three years and the director of instruction at Arnold Middle School for two years. He has also served as principal at Lieder and Metcalf elementary schools and has been the principal at A. Robison for the past six years.
McIlduff received his Bachelor of Science in education from Kent State University and his Master of Education in curriculum and instruction from the University of Houston. He holds certifications in elementary self-contained, language and/or learning disabled, mid-management supervisor, and special education supervisor.
National School Counseling Week Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 3, 2009
This week, Feb. 2-6, is National School Counseling Weekan annual appreciation week from the American School Counselor Association celebrated during the first full week of February.
This years theme is School Counselors: Making a Difference, focusing public attention on the unique contribution of professional school counselors within U.S. school systems. National School Counseling Week highlights the impact that counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.
According to Darlene Davenport, CFISD director of guidance, counseling and special programs, a school counselor addresses the whole childacademic needs and abilities, career awareness and interests, social skills and emotional development.
As students face challenges that hinder their success, counselors are available to assist them to succeed and plan for the future, Davenport said. CFISD counselors work very diligently to reduce the barriers to learning and provide the support necessary for all students to achieve success at their highest level. Counselors, like other key personnel in the educational setting, are here to make a difference in the lives of CFISD students.
Donna Guthrie named new principal at Swenke Elementary Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 2, 2009
Donna Guthrie, the principal at Ault Elementary School, was named the new principal at Deanna Swenke Elementary School, which will open in the 2009-2010 school year.
Swenke Elementary School (No. 50) will be located on a 14-acre site at Fairfield Place Drive and Schiel Road in the Fairfield community, and will provide enrollment relief from Ault and Keith elementary schools.
Guthrie has 22 years of experience in the educational field. After teaching in Deer Park ISD for five years, Guthrie came to CFISD in 1992 as a fifth-grade teacher at Metcalf Elementary School. She taught two years at Metcalf before being named assistant principal, serving in that role through 1998. She then served four years as an assistant principal at Millsap Elementary School, and in 2002 was named principal at Ault. She has served in her current role for seven years.
Guthrie received her Bachelor of Science in Education from Sam Houston State University and her Master of Science in Administration from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. She is certified in Mid-Management Administration.
Susan Higgins named new principal at Smith MS Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted February 2, 2009
Susan Higgins, the principal at Arnold Middle School, was named the new principal at Jodie Smith Middle School, which will open in the 2009-2010 school year.
Smith Middle School (No. 16) will be located on the 130-acre multi-school campus site located at Fry Road near the intersection of Cypress N. Houston.
"Susan Higgins understands the instructional needs of middle school students," said Roy Garcia, associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction and school administration. "With 12 years of administrative experience in middle school, she is most capable of a flawless opening of Smith Middle School."
Higgins has worked in education for 20 years. She began her career in Alief ISD as a middle school assistant principal for four years, then arrived in CFISD in 1993 as an assistant principal at Cypress Falls High School. Higgins held that position for seven years before working in a one-year administrative internship. In 2001 she took over as principal at Arnold.
Higgins received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Houston and her Master of Science in Educational Administration from Houston Baptist University. She has certifications in Texas Mid-Management Administration, Instructional Leadership and Texas Teacher Appraisal.
Cypress Lakes High School will hold "Catch the Dream," a community event for parents and students attending Cypress Lakes High School and Thornton and Watkins middle schools from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21 at the Cypress Lakes campus (5750 Greenhouse Road).
Many exciting activities are planned for children, students and parents, with an emphasis on preparing students for opportunities after graduation.
Food will be served from noon to 1 p.m. during a mini "Health Fair," which will be followed by a keynote address from Linda Macias, assistant superintendent for elementary curriculum and instruction. Various learning sessions will run from 1 to 4:50 p.m. Topics will include financial aid (loans, grants and scholarships), military options, college choices and requirements, PSAT/SAT/ACT and many more. The day will conclude with a closing address by Dr. David Anthony, superintendent of schools.
Door prizes will be awarded, and childcare will be provided with age-appropriate activities. For more information, call Cypress Lakes at 281-856-3800. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.
Zermeno honored as Officer of the Year Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted January 29, 2009
Jersey Village Police Officer Chris Zermeno was recently honored as the Officer of the Year. Zermeno is a 12 year law enforcement veteran. He has a vast knowledge in the field of auto theft, having been assigned to the Auto Theft Task Force for Colorado County Sheriffs Police, as well as expertise gained while working for the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Because of these qualities, he was the 2008 Employee of the Third Quarter. His willingness to help others earned him the Officer of the Year recognition as he took time on his day off to help citizens in need following Hurricane Ike.
Lopez awarded Law Enforcement Certificate of Merit Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News Posted January 29, 2009
Jersey Village recently awarded Officer Albert Lopez the Law Enforcement Certificate of Merit as the 2008 Fourth Quarter Police Officer. Lopez has been employed with the Jersey Village Police Department for one year. His proactive policing e
Cypress Woodlands Junior Forum�s �Journey to Exciting Ports of Call� fund raising gala was held Saturday, March 28 at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel. The proceeds from the gala support community programs for senior citizens, people with disabilities, early childhood intervention and reading education, among many others. In addition, CWJF provides financial assistance in the form of grants and scholarships to community members and organizations. Please contact CWJF at 281-379-1391 or at cwjf@sbcglobal.net for information about CWJF and how to get involved. Please mention you found this on CyFairMagazine.com.