Katy Texas Events 2008

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Three Brothers Awarded Scouting's Highest Rank on the Same Day
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 30, 2008

What do three brothers from Katy, Texas have in common with former astronaut Neil Armstrong, Microsoft founder Bill Gates, and New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg?They all earned the Boy Scouts of America's highest award, the rarified rank of Eagle Scout.Rarer still, the three brothers were awarded their Eagle badges on the same day. In so doing, Damon (18), Spencer (16), and Taylor (15) Janis are joining an elite, almost century-old club that boasts some of America's most exceptional youth and has helped to create some of the world's most outstanding leaders in business, politics, art, and science.
.All three Janis boys have been active for many years in their scouting unit, unit 1078 of the Texas Skies District in the Sam Houston Area Council, sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Katy, Texas.

Katy Tigers Win Sixth State Championship
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 23, 2008

After starting the season at 0-2, the Katy Tigers turned it around and won the Class 5A Division II State Championship. The Tigers made history by winning the school’s first back-to-back championships, making that the sixth in school history. On December 20, playing in front of over 18,000 fans at Reliant Stadium, the Tigers defeated the Wylie Pirates 17 – 3. WAY TO GO TIGERS!

WoodCreek Elementary receives Exemplary campus accountability rating
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 23, 2008

WoodCreek Elementary is proud to announce that they achieved an Exemplary accountability rating. School ratings are determined with set criteria using data from the previous school year. The state of Texas classifies all elementary schools into one of four ratings: Exemplary, Recognized, Academically Acceptable, and Academically Unacceptable based on TAKS performance. WoodCreek Elementary is constantly striving to improve their curriculum delivery so that each child has the opportunity to reach his or her highest potential.

Morton Ranch Academic Decathlon team prepares for State
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 22, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Academic Decathlon team members are using Christmas Break as an opportunity to further their studying as they prepare to make the trip to this year’s state competition. Pictured are senior team leader Ivette Marquez, senior James Chargois, junior Vanessa Palmer, senior Brandon Montgomery, and senior Rene Lara. Other team members (not pictured) include junior Ambi Bobmanuel, junior Haley Jones, senior Andrew Hanson, and senior Humberto Garcia. Alternates are senior Jesus DeLaCruz and junior Kaitlyn O’Dell. The team is coached by Carrie McDaniel, Lauri Crestani, and Mary Pyron.

MRHS Twilight book club a success
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 19, 2008

Recently, the Morton Ranch High School book club met after school with teachers and librarians in the library to discuss Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. 48 students and 9 teachers attended the book club session, which consisted of book groups for students who had read the book and seen the movie, read all four books, or just loved to talk about Edward! Students were awarded door prizes throughout the session. Morton Ranch librarians say that all 13 copies of Twilight are continually on hold in the library.

Two brothers reach Eagle Scout and higher
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 19, 2008

CJ Soto, 21, has reached another summit in his boy scouting career. CJ received the highest Rank in the Boy Scout Venturing Program, the Silver Award in 2005. His scouting career still continues.He has also earned the Ranger Award in Venturing, which sharpens a scout’s skills in outdoor survival situations. He is also the first in the Council and one of the first in the nation to receive the Trust Award, a high achievement for scouts who show community and religious service. He has also earned the Quest Award shows skills in sports activities one of few in the council.Currently he is an adult leader for his brother's crew.
His younger brother, Taron, 15, reached Eagle Scout this year. He has earned 91 merit badges so far but plans to earn all 20 offered. Taron is also in venturing and will soon be working on venturing honors. Taron stated that heplans to be a mentor to the younger boys in his Boy Scout Troop and being active in the Venture Crew.
From earning the Insect Study Merit Badge he has decided he would like to pursue a career in entomology.

Morton Ranch Receives Journalism Honors
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 19, 2008

Good news for the Morton Ranch High School journalism team! They were just notified that the Maverick Star newspaper and the Amaranthine Yearbook each won First Place awards from the American Scholastic Press Association! This national award puts the Morton Ranch publications in the top 15% of high school yearbooks and newspapers in the US. The yearbook scored 915 out of 1000 possible points, and the newspaper scored 870 out of 1000.
Maverick Star staff:Noe Diaz, Jennifer Dugger, James Chargois, Guilian Felix, Hector Flores, Sami Mahon, Alyssa Molina, Lexie Nickerson, Vanessa Palmer, Brittany Parker, Landon Strempel, Kyle Stults, and Matthew Young.
Amaranthine Yearbook staff: Chris Benavides, Oscar Tamez, Ashley Campos, Lauren Campos, Amairiany Amador, Elijah Arnold, Ariel Chrisman, Alexandra Compean, Sierra Flores, Felipe Gabriel, Carly Herrera, Christina Janczak, Sara Katherine Johnson, Ivette Marquez, Jessica Mickelsen, Monique Moreno, Helen Nerio, and Lexie Nickerson.

Katy Naval Sea Cadets get Unit Citation for Community Service
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 18, 2008

Sea Cadets in the Katy Division of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps received a unit citation ribbon for their community service in 2008. The cadets helped victims of hurricane Ike, cleaned up Matagorda beach, assisted in the Houston Rodeo Run, assisted Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9182 and volunteered at the Wings Over Houston Air show.
“Only a handful of our Sea Cadet Divisions in the United States earn a unit citation in a typical year,” said Lieutenant JG Cliff Borgstedt, commanding officer of the Division. “Our Sea Cadets should be very proud of themselves.”
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a national organization teaching leadership skills and teamwork for youth 11-18 years old interested in learning about the U.S. Navy and the military way of life. While no military commitment is required, many U.S. Naval Sea Cadets eventually join the armed forces. Katy Sea Cadets have also helped restore the U.S.S. Battleship Texas, volunteered with local ambulance and fire fighting organizations, learned how to scuba dive and have flown experimental aircraft. The Katy Division Sea Cadets are sponsored by VFW Post 9182 in Katy.

Breath of Life Children’s Clinic blessed by CompassionKaty.org volunteers
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 18, 2008

Local volunteers from CompassionKaty.org came together to help put a fresh coat of paint on the Breath of Life Children’s clinic facility. It was a day of hard work and much fun. The Breath of Life Children’s Clinic was truly blessed.
Breath of Life Children’s Clinic serves uninsured and underinsured children within the Katy community. Last year alone, the clinic provided acute sick care and preventive services to over 3700 children. Denise Owen, Executive Director for the Breath of Life Children’s Clinic has always felt that no child in our community should go untreated due to a family’s financial hardship!
CompassionKaty.org is a volunteer group seeking to connect volunteers into the community to meet needs and share Christ. Diane Walker, Executive Director for CompassionKaty, coordinated the efforts with the clinic. Fifteen volunteers from Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church and The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch worked together on this project.

MPJH Band Parties at Rocket City
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 17, 2008

Recently, the Memorial Parkway Junior High School Beginner Band partied at Rocket City. Even Director David Lorine joined in the fun. The mostly 6th graders enjoyed the buffet before heading towards the games. The band students and directors bowled, drove bumper cars, danced and played air hockey and the other games offered. The MPJH Beginner Band also held a Tinsel and Tunes concert and silent auction this week which was a great success.

Morton Ranch FBLA Spreads Joy by Participating in Angels of Light
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 17, 2008

The Morton Ranch chapter of FBLA recently volunteered for Angels of Light, a program that ministers to families in the inner-city community and surrounding communities during the Christmas season.The program was held at the Second Baptist Church in Katy on December 4th and 5th.In the weeks leading up to the event, FBLA members collected non-perishable food items as well as gently used clothing and toys to be donated to the church.Students volunteered in various capacities such as serving food, wrapping gifts, and packaging groceries as part of a chapter-wide community service project.It was a wonderful opportunity for the students to give back to the community and spread some Christmas joy.

Boy Scout Troop 230 Camps at Lake Texana
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 17, 2008

Despite the cold December weather, adults and scouts from BSA Troop 230 camped for the weekend at Lake Texana. While there, the scouts learned and completed several skills needed to achieve First Class Rank.Activities included a five-mile hike, fire building techniques, and knot tying skills. Troop 230 is chartered by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Katy. They meet on Monday nights at their scout house located across from Taylor High School on Kingsland Blvd.For more information visit their website: www.troop230.org.

MRHS Students make Academic All-State Football Team
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 17, 2008

The Academic All-State Football Team was announced this week, and Morton Ranch High School had 3 players recognized for their efforts.This is a big honor for these individuals and for Morton Ranch High School.The three young men are Matt Bowman, 2nd Team All-State, Martin Balch, Honorable Mention All-State, and Kris Yarger, Honorable Mention All-State.

MRHS holds 2nd annual Battle of the Barn
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 17, 2008

Faculty and Staff of Morton Ranch High School participated in the FFA's 2nd annual Battle in the Barn. The winners were:
Sheep:
Grand Champion Showmanship - Mrs. Hurley
Reserve Champion Showmanship - Ms. Worthington
Goats:
Grand Champion Showmanship - Coach Orsagh
Reserve Champion Showmanship - Mrs. Luna
Swine:
Grand Champion Showmanship - Mrs. Crestani
Reserve Champion Showmanship - Ms. Nite
Steers:
Grand Champion Showmanship - Ms. Nite
Reserve Champion Showmanship - Coach Orsagh

Maverick Belles entertain at Brookwood Social Hour
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 17, 2008

The Maverick Belle Officers entertained at the Saturday night Brookwood Social Hour. They danced, met the residents, and took pictures. The officers were Colonel Maria Tafur, Sr Lieutenant Christina Janczak, Junior Lieutenant KayKay Brock, Junior Lieutenant Courtney Kincaid.

Katy Naval Sea Cadets get new Commanding Officer
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 15, 2008

Lieutenant JG Clifford Borgstedt recently assumed command of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets, Katy Division at VFW Post 9182 in Katy. Ensign Tom Cloud relinquished his command of the Division in a ceremony steeped in Navy tradition, patterned after the ceremony the U.S. Navy uses when a Navy ship’s commanding officer changes command to a new commanding officer.
Lieutenant JG Borgstedt, a Tomball resident, is a law enforcement officer. He has been involved with the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps for six years, and served as the Supply Officer, and Personnel/Training Officer in the Houston Division of the Sea Cadets before assuming command of the Katy Division.
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a national organization teaching leadership skills and teamwork for youth 11-18 years old interested in learning about the U.S. Navy and the military way of life. While no military commitment is required, many U.S. Naval Sea Cadets eventually join the armed forces. The Katy Division Sea Cadets are active in community service projects such as the Houston Rodeo Run and assisting Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9182 in Katy. They have also helped restore the U.S.S. Battleship Texas, volunteered with local ambulance and fire fighting organizations, learned how to scuba dive and have flown experimental aircraft. The Katy Division Sea Cadets are sponsored by VFW Post 9182 in Katy. For more information, contactLieutenant JG Clifford Borgstedt at katyusnsc@hotmail.com.

Cinco Ranch High School Student Named Finalist in Siemens Competition
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 12, 2008

The Siemens Foundation is pleased to announce that Jaimie Chung, senior at Cinco Ranch High School, has been selected as a Finalist in the 2008-09 Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology. This program continues Siemens’ 160 year tradition of supporting math and science education. With its high academic standards, rigorous judging process and emphasis on authentic scientific research, the Siemens Competition is regarded as one of the leading science and mathematics research-based competitions for high school students. All of this year’s finalists were announced in a full-page ad in a recent edition of USA Today.

Katy Chamber celebrates Barker Aesthetic Dentistry
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 12, 2008

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of Barker Aesthetic Dentistry December 11th.

Contact:
Barker Aesthetic Dentistry
Dr. Barker
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Ste. B228
Katy, TX
(281) 391-4200
smile@drbradbarker.com

Study reveals commuters are saving significant travel time when traveling along the new I-10/Katy Freeway
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 11, 2008

At the request of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) recently completed a review of travel times and speeds along the I-10/Katy Freeway. This initial analysis of commuter benefits relative to the recently completed expansion project reveals that drivers are saving significant time during roundtrip commutes between SH 99 and the I-610/West Loop when comparing traffic conditions in June 2008 to data collected during a recent review in November, particularly during peak time hours.
After opening the freeway in its full lane capacity at the end of October, commuters traveling the Katy Freeway corridor now save an average of 15 minutes of time during their morning commutes by increasing average travel speeds by 25 MPH, and save on average another 12 minutes of time during afternoon commutes by increasing average travel speeds by 19 MPH.
In June 2008, drivers were averaging speeds of 33 MPH and travel times of 36 minutes during morning commutes between SH 99 and the West Loop. Afternoon commutes were averaging 35 MPH with travel times of 34 minutes. With the completion of construction, morning commuters are now averaging speeds of 58 MPH and travel times of 21 minutes with afternoon commuters averaging 54 MPH and travel times of 22 minutes when traveling this same distance. This translates to almost 2 1/2 hours per work week that commuters are given back valuable time to spend in other ways besides sitting in traffic.
TTI will be performing a more detailed analysis and will present a comprehensive technical report after the first of the year. For more information on the Katy Freeway Reconstruction Program, please contact the Katy Freeway Public Information Office at 281-589-5924.

The Houston Grand Opera comes to WoodCreek Elementary
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 11, 2008

The Houston Grand Opera came to WoodCreek Elementary on Dec. 3rd and performed the Caldecott Award Winning story, "Strega Nona," for the 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders.In this story, Big Anthony learns a valuable lesson about respecting other people's property. The opera was performed in English and followed by an open Q & A session. This provided the students with a more in-depth look at the many layers of a live musical performance.

Creech Elementary Students show off their WOW moments
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 11, 2008

Recently, Creech Elementary held a Reflections reception sponsored by the National PTA. The theme this year for Reflections was WOW. Students were encouraged to submit photos of something that was a WOW moment for them.

WoodCreek Jr. High Choir Presents 1st Annual Winter Festival Holiday Concert
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 11, 2008

Tuesday, December 9th, the WoodCreek Jr. High Choir presented their 1st annual Winter Festival Holiday Concert. The concert was decorated beautifully with the use of red poinsettias sold by the choir.The program included the following Choir performances:Timber Wolf Tenor Choir, Combined Beginning Choirs, Timber Wolf Treble Choir, WoodCreek Men's Choir, Combined Advanced Choirs, and WoodCreek Women's Choir.The program also included a duet by Mindy Keahey and Mikayla Pierce and featured solos by Bachlor Johnson and Emilee Koshak. To add extra excitement to the evening, choir member Michael Schwin performed a fabulous piano solo. When the concert ended, guests were able to participate in a silent auction held by the Choir.

Kraton Polymers Relocating R&D Facility from Westhollow Technology Center to Park 10/Katy Area
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 10, 2008

Lothar Freund of Kraton Polymers LLC (“Kraton”), Kevin White of KGW Real Estate, and Lance LaCour, CEO of the Katy Area Economic Development Council (the “Katy EDC”) have announced the relocation of Kraton’s Research and Development facility from the Shell Westhollow Technology Center (WTC) to an 85,000 sq. ft technology building at 16400 Park Row Blvd., formerly known as the Reliability Building.
Kraton’s relocation is occurring in connection with Shell’s expansion project at WTC, where Kraton is currently located. “We are excited about the move to Park Row as it has the space we need in a location favorable to our employees,” noted Lothar Freund of Kraton. “We plan to make a substantial investment in the new facility. Approximately seventy employees will be relocating and we anticipate hiring more people at this new location in the coming years.”
Mr. Freund thanked Kevin White of KGW Real Estate for his handling of the project, as well as Fuller Realty Partners, LLC , the owners of the building. Mr. Freund also acknowledged Lance LaCour for the Katy EDC’s proposal for incentives and training assistance at the new facility. Kraton is leasing the Park Row site and expects to be in operation at the new facility by April 2009.
“We were pleased to handle this project for our client, Kraton Polymers,” said Mr. White. KGW also handled the relocation of Kraton’s headquarters from downtown Houston to JFK Boulevard (near Bush International Airport) two years ago.
LaCour noted that the Katy EDC is thrilled about Kraton choosing the Park Row facility. The Katy EDC has been involved in marketing the building and providing prospective tenants with information about the area. “We performed research, identified properties and assembled an incentives package that included a grant proposal from the Katy Area EDC Opportunity Fund, a commitment to provide local training assistance, and some ‘Local Goodwill Incentives’ from area businesses for enterprises relocating to the Katy Area,” stated LaCour. “WTC is located outside of Katy ISD and this move will bring Kraton, a world-class Company, into Katy ISD.”

Second Annual Grayson Lakes Holiday Boat Parade and Social
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 10, 2008

Children lined up dockside to whisper into Santa’s ear while brightly lit pontoon boats paraded past about 250 neighbors on December 6 in the Grayson Lakes Second Annual Holiday Boat Parade and Social.
Six electric deck boats adorned with sparkling lights, hearty green garland, red bows and various glowing decorations navigated through the calm waters of the neighborhood’s largest lake. On shore, residents enjoyed goodies and hot chocolate, shopped at a neighborhood holiday market, and lined up to see Santa Claus before casting their vote for the best decorated boat.
A grand prize winner was named and received an award. Prior to the pontoon parade, canoes and a paddleboat warmed the crowd up. A drawing was held and an award was given to one lucky small watercraft winner.
The Grayson Lakes Event Committee, along with a donation from Bob Miles of Prudential Gary Greene Realtors, sponsored the event.
Prior to the beginning of the boat parade, Santa Claus and one of his devoted elves made their way through the neighborhood atop the Willow Fork Fire Department’s bright red fire truck as music trumpeted his arrival. Outside the neighborhood’s clubhouse, children colored a craft and enjoyed treats while neighbors visited and took in all the activity.

Mud # 35 makes donation to Kilpatrick Elementary
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 10, 2008

Mud #35 generously donated $25,000 to Kilpatrick Elementary School. The money will go toward building a new track at the school.Each class presented a card made by the students.

Katy Veterans observe Pearl Harbor Day
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 9, 2008

On Sunday, December 7, members of Katy’s Veterans of Foreign Wars joined with members of the American Legion to observe Pearl Harbor Day. The weekend started out at 8 am Saturday when post members and visiting officials met at the site of the three flag poles on George Bush Drive and Ave. D. Post Chaplin David Nixon led the group in a dedication ceremony creating a centerpiece for the Katy area to observe special military anniversaries or events. The highlight of the Sunday “Remember Pearl Harbor” ceremony was a series of brief remarks from three WW2 VFW members who were in the thick of the action. They are George Berg, Ed Christensen and Norris Miertschin. Each covered phases of the war in Europe and in the Pacific. Katy mayor Don Elder welcomed the audience and emphasized the importance of remembering what happened at Pearl Harbor in 1941.

Cub Scouts complete service project
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 9, 2008

Cub Scout Pack 353 Chartered through St. Peter's United Methodist Church visited Oakmont Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center of Katy on December 7th to sing Christmas Carols and present a donation of $600.00 to the center for patients that have special needs.

Katy Chamber celebrates new area business
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 9, 2008

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of Sue Fitzsimmons’ new State Farm Insurance office December 9th.

Contact:
State Farm Insurance - Sue Fitzsimmons
Sue Fitzsimmons - Owner/Agent
17756 Katy Freeway, Ste. 5
Houston, TX 77094
(281) 646-9306
sue@fitzsimmonsagency.com

Morton Ranch FBLA Collects Donations for March of Dimes
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 8, 2008

Each year the Morton Ranch chapter of FBLA makes a generous donation to the March of Dimes. To get the campus involved, the chapter honored “Prematurity Awareness Month” by running trivia tidbits about the March of Dimes on the video announcements. Each day featured a different fact about the struggle to save the lives of premature babies. Students and staff were encouraged to make donations in the Maverick Mart, the school’s store. Sponsor Erin Segreto gave each donator a pink or blue ribbon to display on the walls of the store with their name.
To help get teachers more involved, the faculty was given the privilege of a “jean day”. If a staff member donated $5.00 he or she could wear jeans to school on Tuesday, November 25th. Also, a very generous donation was made by the Ag Department and presented to FBLA sponsor Mitzi Poole.
The donation drive was extremely successful as a total of $575.00 was raised! FBLA will continue to collect donations throughout the school year and is hoping to surpass last year’s donation of $1,000.

West Houston Employee Wins Hospitality Award
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 8, 2008

Diann Mitchell, Director of Sales & Marketing at the Omni Houston Hotel-Westside, was named one of the hospitality industry’s best when the Hotel & Lodging Association of Greater Houston celebrated its Fourth Annual Hospitality on Parade Awards Dinner Nov. 21.
Mitchell was honored for her work in Community Service and was one of eight people chosen from among the thousands of men and women employed in the area hotel industry.
Nominated for the award by her employer of ten years, Mitchell was chosen for her amazing generosity in donating her time and efforts to innumerable special causes. She is described as having an endless drive and passion supported by her belief that the role of a leader is to develop, mentor and support.
More than 500 people attended the awards celebration which was held at the Hyatt Regency Houston Downtown. Proceeds from the special event benefit programs and services of the HLAGH and the Hilton College Alumni Board Endowed Scholarship. This newly-created scholarship will be awarded to students interested in pursuing studies in the hospitality industry.
The HLAGH represents the hotel industry that provides over 25,000 jobs in the city and is responsible for an economic impact of $9.8 billion in revenues. The Association strongly believes in supporting the community through outreach events such as the annual Bike Building Event as well as works to educate future hospitality employees through its scholarship programs and mentoring activities.
For more information, please contact Joan Johnson with the Hotel & Lodging Association of Greater Houston at (713) 437-5250.

UHV Gamma Beta Phi chapter inducts new members
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 8, 2008

The University of Houston-Victoria chapter of the Gamma Beta Phi Society honor and service organization recently inducted 46 new members.
Chapter President John White, a senior business major with a focus in healthcare administration, greeted the new inductees and introduced various presenters at the University of Houston System at Sugar Land, where UHV offers many of the programs. Several Gamma Beta Phi officers recited the Coat of Arms, Code of Ethics, and the objectives, expectations and retention standards of the society.
The new inductees were formally initiated by reciting the membership pledge given by White. Simultaneously, at UHV’s campus in Victoria, Vice President Rick Navarro and Interim Secretary Christy Esse inducted 18 new Gamma Beta Phi members. After the ceremony, the new members and their families went to a reception held in their honor. This was an opportunity for the inductees to get acquainted with current members.
To be eligible for the Gamma Beta Phi Society, students must be enrolled in a UHV degree program, have completed at least 12 credit hours of course work with a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher, and be committed to excellence in education, good character and service. Members inducted from the Katy area include Carrie Cannon-Winter, Kinnari Hoover, Celestine Metuassalol, Kim Smallwood, and Teresa Sturm.

Morton Ranch FBLA Helps Santa Cops
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 8, 2008

The Morton Ranch chapter of FBLA participated in the Santa Cops program by adopting two children, a boy and a girl. FBLA officers Samantha Pitman, Enory Sanchez, and Jill Powers went with sponsor Mitzi Poole to Target where they shopped for everything on the children’s wish lists. Each child received clothing, toys, and a selection of DVD’s. Sponsor Erin Segreto helped FBLA officers wrap the gifts which were then delivered to the police station on Franz Rd. The chapter also participated in Santa Cops last year by adopting two children and they look forward to continued participation in the program.

Pack 548 Webelo Dragon Patrol takes trip to museum
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 4, 2008

Katy Pack 548's Webelo Dragon Patrol took a trip to the Houston Museum of Natural Science on Saturday, November 22nd. The boys had a great time and learned a lot.They even took a moment to dig for fossils. To top off a great day, they stopped into the museum's McDonalds for an ice cream cone before the drive back to Katy.

Katy Girl Scouts participate in Striders
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 4, 2008

Recently, Girl Scout Brownie Troop #17096 participated in the Striders track and field Event sponsored by Cane Island Girl Scout Service Unit. They had two girls win awards. Brooke Goldberg won second place in jump rope and Eva Troner won fourth place in the 400 Meter Relay. Congratulations to all the girls who participated!

Beck Students selected for Region 23 Choir
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 3, 2008

Nine Beck Jr. High JV and Varsity Choir members were selected to perform in the Region 23 Choir Concert. Pictured, from L-R top: Sarah Mumme, Victoria Ekstrand, Danielle Russell, Maria Dean, Meredith Taylor. Front: Sayan Ray, Zachary Burch, Eric Ander, John Swartout

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates New Business
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 3, 2008

On December 3, the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the newest AT&T store with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony.

Contact:Steven Buckley
281-682-2873
5530 W. Grand Parkway South Ste. 400

Third Grade Colonial Days
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 2, 2008

Pattison Elementary 3rd graders and their teachers recently celebrated Colonial Day to participate in activities the settlers of Jamestown did, such as building model versions of the Jamestown Fort, playing games of the period and learning about the clothing of the time period. Students dressed up and participated in a "quilting" activity as well as many other fun activities. This project culminated their six-week study of Jamestown.

Young Katy Resident Earns Black Belt
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 2, 2008

Jonathan Cash is only 11 years old and he has already earned his Black Belt! He has been taking Tae Kwon Do for the past two years. In order to earn a Black Belt, the candidate must master and demonstrate skills at ten different levels, including ten different forms, including defensive tactics, sparring, weapons and board breaking. Jonathan is now training to achieve several degrees of the black belt and hopes to teach Tae Kwon Do some day.

McMeans Junior High School Wins Third Place Sweepstakes Trophy
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 2, 2008

Recently, 26 McMeans Junior High School Theatre Arts students competed in the Katy HS Speech Tournament and won the 3rd place sweepstakes trophy.
For Solo Pantomime, 8th graders Sebastian Gualy got 1st place and Sawyer Stull got 3rd Place. For Group Improvisation, 8th grade students Andi Jo, Sebastian Gualy, Samantha Reichstein and Sawyer Stull got 1st place.For Duet Acting, 8th grade students Sebastian Gualy and Sawyer Stull got 2nd place. For Solo Improvisation, 6th grade student Caroline Stout got 3rd place.For Debate, 6th grade student Neel Yemini got 3rd place. For Reader’s Theatre, 8th grade students Andi Jo, Sebastian Gualy, Samantha Reichstein, and Sawyer Stull got 3rd place.
Ms Ann Batten-Bishop is the Theatre Arts Director.

MRHS Theatre Participates in State Convention
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 1, 2008

Recently, the theatre department at Morton Ranch High School traveled with 15 students to Ft. Worth for the annual Texas Thespian Convention. All of the students competed in various competitions or auditions. One student, Connor Lamb, advanced to nationals, which will take place this summer in Lincoln, Nebraska on the campus of the University of Nebraska. Connor advanced in scenic design and will represent the state of Texas with his design of Steve Martin’s Picasso at the Lapin Agile.
Morton Ranch students also received 1st place in the “Texas Techie Relay.” The group, consisting of Chelsea Young, Blake Coker, Jennifer Font and Connor Lamb, won a portable lighting system for the theatre department. They defeated all other schools from Texas that competed in this event.

WoodCreek Junior High Celebrates its Dedication
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 1, 2008

Woodcreek Junior High School opened its doors to many new and excited students, parents and staff this September. The newly constructed building boasts a two-story structure housing over 900 students for its first school year. The Dedication for the school was celebrated on Tuesday, November 18th, to a very full house consisting of students, parents, faculty, the PTA board members, and special guests in our community, including Katy's own Mayor Don Elder, Jr., KISD Superintendent Alton Frailey, and many more. The WCJH Choir and Orchestra, and student pianists entertained the crowd for the night. Principal Patti Shafer's family traveled long distances to celebrate and support her for this special dedication.

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
Katy, Texas News
Posted December 1, 2008

On November 20th, Katy Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of The Solana at Cinco Ranch, which is the New Signature of Senior Living.

The Solana at Cinco Ranch
Rhonda Ferrell - Director of Community Relations
24001 Cinco Village Center Blvd
Katy, TX 77494
(281) 395-9600
Fax: (281) 395-0745
rferrell@thesolana.com

George Foundation Receives the YMCA Galloway Award
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 25, 2008

The 2008 Galloway Award was presented to The George Foundation at the YMCA of Greater Houston’s Annual Celebration on Wednesday, November 12th, at the Hilton Americas in downtown Houston. The Galloway Award is an honor presented to a firm or organization in the Houston area that supports the community, especially the YMCA, in a significant way. Gene Reed, trustee chairman of The George Foundation, accepted the award on its behalf.
Albert and Mamie George created the The George Foundation in 1945 to ensure that their wealth would continue to benefit the citizens of Fort Bend County. Their generous philosophy and determination to see Fort Bend County thrive led to the establishment of The George Foundation.
The George Foundation has helped fund several YMCA projects over the years. Today, it continues to touch the lives of young people and their families through funding of YMCA outreach sports and after school and summer camp programs in Fort Bend County. The Georges had a great love for Fort Bend County and its people. Their compassion for others and concern for the less fortunate were extraordinary and became a part of their daily lives. During their lifetimes, the couple spent inordinate amounts of personal time and money helping people to help themselves.
The Galloway Award is named in honor of James Galloway, who was highly active in the YMCA and served as chair of the Association’s Board of Directors from 1970-1973. Mr. Galloway was also instrumental in encouraging Exxon USA employees to become involved with the YMCA. The YMCA Board of Directors established the award following his death and the first Galloway Award was given to Exxon. Mr. Galloway’s wife, Marie, continues to support the YMCA of Greater Houston.

Seven Lakes Sapphires Host Dance Clinic
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 25, 2008

Over the weekend, the Seven Lakes High School Sapphires had a dance clinic for students in kindergarten through 5th grade. After a morning of practice, the girls performed at a Seven Lakes Basketball game!

McMeans Junior High Honors Veterans
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 25, 2008

On Tuesday, November 11, the Performing Arts Departments from Garland McMeans Junior High School performed a celebration to honor our veterans. Students from the band and choir departments performed patriotic music. The Advanced Theatre Arts students performed a tribute from an original script. Students were excited to be able to take the time to pay tribute to those who served our country.

WoodCreek Junior High Students Make Region Choir
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 24, 2008

Being a member of Region Choir is an honor. This year there were approximately 700 students from Houston ISD, Alief ISD and Katy ISD auditioning for 200 spots. The students pictured are from WoodCreek Junior High in Katy and were among these 200 chosen members. These students practiced for weeks prior to and after the audition with the help of their choir teacher, Lauren Burris. They also participated in the Region Choir concert held at Cinco Ranch HS Performing Arts Center. Congratulations, WCJH Region Choir singers!
Emilee Koshak, Katie Rudnik and Stephen Unger.

Cinco Ranch Ladies Club Presents Check to Carrie’s Heart
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 24, 2008

Cinco Ranch Ladies Club President, Pamela Rapp, and Vice President, Robin Garcia presented a check to Carrie’s Heart at CRLC’s Holiday Market on November 18. The ladies of CRLC sponsored a Fun House at La Centerra on Halloween. With the help of many volunteers and sponsors, they raised over $1,100.
The CRLC will be sponsoring a luncheon and fashion show for a fundraiser for the Barker Family and the American Brain Tumor Association December 6th at the Pine Forest Country Club. Be watching for details on this incredible event.

Katy Family YMCA Awards Local Pastor its Highest Volunteer Honor
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 24, 2008

Every year the Katy Family YMCA recognizes an outstanding volunteer for his/her generosity of spirit, hard work and compassion for others. We are pleased to announce that Jerry Edmonson has been named this year’s Volunteer of the Year!
Edmonson was presented with his award at the YMCA of Greater Houston’s Annual Celebration on Wednesday, November 12th at the Hilton Americas in downtown Houston. Smith joined 41 other honorees, each representing an individual YMCA center, camp or special program. All of the award winners were greeted with a standing ovation by the audience after being handed a solid bronze sculpture custom-made by Katy, Texas artist David Mattiza.
Jerry Edmonson, Lead Pastor at the Fellowship of Cinco Ranch, has served on the Katy YMCA Center Board for over 5 years. In addition to raising funds, helping set strategic vision, and serving as an advisor, Edmonson has recruited additional board members and co-founded the Annual Turkey Dash, in which the net proceeds benefit the YMCA’s Partners Outreach campaign.
Volunteers help the staff ensure that the YMCA is accessible for all, regardless of gender, background or ethnicity. “The YMCA exists to help people and communities reach their fullest potential. We can’t do that alone,” said YMCA President and CEO Clark Baker. “Our volunteers are invaluable. Their caring, generosity and leadership can transform lives, and that’s what we’re all about.”
For more information about volunteer opportunities at the YMCA, visit www.ymcahouston.org.

Lady Tigers Win District Championship
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 20, 2008

The Lady Tigers volleyball team recently won the District 17-5A Championship. They did a great job representing their school and were very excited about the victory that secured the championship. The girls advanced to the semi-finals of the Regional tournament, earning a spot in the "Sweet Sixteen" in the state. Congratulations on a great season.
Team members are Sandra Adeleye, Megan D'Andrea, Matte Haack, McKenzie Wright, Cady Mercer, Abby Fletcher, Tyler Mills, Allison Kingsley, Jessica Acord, Jessie Johnston, Maddie Mckay, Kendra Robinson, Shannon Adams, Michaela Spicer, Kristy Thompson, Jordan Moore, Amanda Bryan (Manager), Kaitlin Hanner (Manager), Becca Rushworth (Manager), Audrey Yager (Trainer).

Crossbridge UMC Hires New Worship Leader
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 19, 2008

If you show up early at Crossbridge United Methodist Church, meeting Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at Bonnie Holland Elementary, you expect to encounter a few things.As a new church meeting in a school, you expect to see a hard working crew transforming a gym into a sanctuary. You expect to see all sorts of people preparing for an exciting Sunday morning.What you don’t expect to see, right in the middle of the set up crew running sound cables and setting up the drums, is the highly talented and incredibly gifted musician and songwriter, Jason Koch.
Jason Koch, the worship leader for Crossbridge United Methodist Church, is defined as much by his gracious humility as he is by his passionate lyrics and lively arrangements of traditional hymns and worship choruses. “When I first met Jason I was struck by both his talent and his humble presence,” says Rev. Howard Huhn, pastor of Crossbridge.“Jason is one of those rare musicians who sees his talent as more than a gift, but a calling.His approachable demeanor and real life faith come through in his leading of worship and make worship accessible to the everyday Christian.”Indeed, Jason Koch not only sings about humility and love for Christ, but lives it out with passion.
Jason Koch and his talented band of Daniel Williams, C.J. Dipalma, William Matthews, and Jesse Reed, lead worship each Sunday at Crossbridge United Methodist Church.Services are at 10:30 a.m. at Bonnie Holland Elementary, located at the corner of Seven Meadows Parkway and Gaston Road in the heart of Seven Meadows.Crossbridge offers a unique blend of contemporary worship songs and hymns in a friendly and comfortable atmosphere.

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Area Grand Openings
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 19, 2008

Ribbon Cutting November 18th celebrating the Grand Opening of Katy’s newest apartment homes, The Retreat at Cinco Ranch!
Contact:
The Retreat at Cinco Ranch
Karen Bullock - Property Manager
3306 S. Fry Road
Katy, TX
281-398-5553
cincoranch@ores.com

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at FedEx Kinko’s November 19th.
Contact:
FedEx Kinkos
Brad Fehr - Center Manager
23701 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Ste. 130
Katy, TX
(281) 395-6600
brad.fehr@fedexkinkos.com

WoodCreek Elementary Celebrates 50 Days of School
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 19, 2008

On November 11th, WoodCreek Elementary celebrated the 50th day of school. The students, teachers, and administrators had fun dressing in 50's attire and listening to 50's music. Everyone had a great time.

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Ribbon Cuttings
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 18, 2008

On November 13, the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated two ribbon cuttings in our area.

Grace Care Center of Katy celebrated their Grand Opening with the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce.
Contact:
Grace Care Center of Katy
Andrew Hall - Executive Director
23553 West Fernhurst Dr
Katy, TX
(832) 448-3700
Fax: (832) 448-3706
ahall@hmshealthcare.com

Centex Homes celebrated their newest community in Katy with the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce.
Contact:
Tom Sanford
Director of Marketing
(713) 481-6891 (work)
Fax: (281) 582-4018
tsanford@centexhomes.com

MRHS English Teachers Complete Half Marathon
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 18, 2008

Three Morton Ranch High School English teachers, Jeanna Bickerstaff, Shelli Shaw, and Deanna Nomey, participated this past weekend in the Rock and Roll half marathon in San Antonio, Texas. All three women completed the half marathon in just over two hours. Morton Ranch is proud of the accomplishments of its teachers!

Fall Carnival Raises Money for MPJH
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 18, 2008

Record crowds turned out on Friday, Oct. 17th to enjoy Memorial Parkway Jr. High's annual Fall Carnival. DJ Ben Calderera got the party going with great music. Everyone enjoyed the exciting games and rides provided by Texas Jumps and Tank's Paintball. Silly String was everywhere, too! A delicious array of food was prepared by the dedicated MPJH Dads, led by Bill Clements. Ritters, Bahama Mama's and Papa John's rounded out the night. Awesome Face paining by Dori and colorful Hair painting by the MPJH cheerleaders were the most popular tables all evening! Record ticket sales will enable the MPJH PTA to provide schoolwide equipment and curriculum support.

Maverick Belles Welcome Walmart to the Community
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 18, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Maverick Belles Elite Team helped with the Grand Opening of the newest Walmart on Grand Parkway. They closed the ceremony with a signature high kick routine and helped with Walmart's signature cheer! The Elite team consists of Colonel Maria Tafur, Senior Lieutenant Christina Janczak, Lieutenant KayKay Brock, Lieutenant Melissa Harris, Lieutenant Courtney Kincaid, Gabby Carr, Tori Invanovich, Brianna Abrams, Holly Ojeda, Beth Liles, and Adrienne Mesa.

Christ Church PCA of Katy Celebrates Milestone!
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 18, 2008

Sunday, November 16th, Christ Church PCA of Katy, a 10 year old congregation, celebrated the first milestone in the construction of their permanent facility, located at 3025 Katy Gaston. Durotech, the builder, served the 170 member congregation with a BBQ lunch at the U.S. flag raising ceremony which signified the establishment of their church body in the Katy community. Christ Church exists to make mature disciples who will worship, know and serve Christ so that His Church and Kingdom are powerfully extended in Katy and beyond. The congregation is excited to become more established in the Katy community and serve their spiritual needs. The congregation currently meets at Taylor High School and more information can be found by calling 281-392-0002.

Katy Ladies Run in the Rock and Roll Marathon
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 18, 2008

Katy girls ran in the full and half marathons at the San Antonio Rock and Roll over the weekend. Participants included, from left to right: Tracy Zizka, Kymberly Pratt, Shelli Shaw, Brenda Angus, Missy Boggs, Terri Yanoviak

Katy ISD Partners in Education Open House a Success
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 18, 2008

Katy ISD Campus leaders recently welcomed over three hundred business representatives to the fifth annual Partners in Education Open House. The Open House provided an opportunity for the business community to connect with their partner campuses and talk about partnership activity for this school year. Guests were entertained by students from Cinco Ranch High School, Cinco Ranch Junior High, Morton Ranch Junior High and Taylor High School. Pictured above are representatives of Katy ISD’s Griffin Elementary and Fish City Grill.

Veteran’s Day Assembly at West Houston Charter School
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 17, 2008

West Houston Charter School of Katy (K-8th) held a Veteran’s Day Assembly to honor our veterans as well as active military servicemen and servicewomen.Parents, staff and the 325 students participated with the choir singing patriotic songs, the art department doing a presentation of our nation’s symbols, and the Jr. High dance team performing. The highlight of the celebration was hearing from each of the 23 veterans in attendance about their contributions to secure our nation’s freedom.A Wall of Honor with pictures provided by the students supplied a backdrop for the event. Veterans were honored with a special luncheon provided by the fourth grade classes.

WoodCreek Jr. High Choir Stays Active
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 12, 2008

The WoodCreek Jr. High Choir had a fun-filled week this November. On Tuesday, November 2nd, the WCJH Choir took a field trip to the Wortham Center to see the student matinee of "Beatrice and Benedict". On their way back from the opera, the students filled their stomachs at CiCi's Pizza on Mason Road.On Friday, November 7th, the WCJH Choir celebrated with a Fall Party at Times Square Entertainment. Choir members enjoyed bowling, playing games, playing laser tag & eating pizza. A fun time was had by all.

Katy Chamber Holds Ribbon Cuttings
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 12, 2008

Financial & Insurance Consultants celebrated their new offices at the Open House with the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce on November 5, 2008.
CONTACT:
Financial & Insurance Consultants
W. Ben Keel – Partner
800 Avenue C
Katy, TX 77493
(281) 392-2900
Fax: (281) 392-1849
ben@benkeel.com


The Concierge celebrated their membership with the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce on November 5, 2008.
Contact:
The Concierge Healthcare & Rehab
David Wall - Director of Business Development
2310 S. Eldridge
Houston, TX 77077
(281) 558-3900
Fax: (281) 558-4434
dwall@conciergecare.com

Mayde Creek Cheerleaders Seek the Perfect Mayde Man
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 11, 2008

Mayde Creek High School's Varsity Cheerleaders are excited to announce the kick-off of the 2009 Perfect Mayde Man Contest. Nominees must be Mayde Creek students in the categories of Perfect Mayde Man, Best Smile, Best Backpocket, and Best Eyes. Area businesses, organizations, and individuals are encouraged to stop by the Mayde Creek High School front office and pick up a nomination form. Forms and the $25.00 fee can be dropped off at anytime before December 12, 2008. After nominees are announced, the public is encouraged to fill out a ballot for 25 cents for their favorite candidates. Proceeds benefit Project Grad and the MCHS Cheerleaders.Awards will be announced at a talent show for the nominees on February 5, 2009.

Boy Scouts Earn Service Hours with the Katy Volunteer Fire Department
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 6, 2008

Boy Scout Troop 557 earned service hours helping at the Katy Volunteer Fire Departments 26th Annual Fajita Fundraiser and Auction on October 21st, 2008.The scouts helped with serving food and cleaning tables.For more information about Boy Scout Troop 557 email Derek Spier at dspier1@comcast.net.

La Centerra at Cinco Ranch announces Adams Law Firm Relocation
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 6, 2008



LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch has recently added The Adams Law Firm to its impressive roster of office tenants. According to center management, the firm has leased 6,462 square feet of class “A” office space and will relocate in early 2009.
“When it became apparent we’d outgrown our current space and needed to relocate, LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch was the obvious choice,” says Managing Partner, Thomas A. (Tad) Adams IV. “The environment is the perfect blend of ambiance and amenities for our staff and clients. We couldn’t be happier with our beautiful new home and look forward to a long relationship with Vista Equities and the LaCenterra family.”

Lady Eagles Soar To The Playoffs
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 6, 2008

Riding the strong play of Priscilla Garza, the undefeated Lady Eagles of Calvin Nelms Charter Schools received a bye for the first round of UIL Division 1A Volleyball playoffs. The Lady Eagles amassed a record of 12-0 in district play and will play North Zulch for Area Champion. The players are: Jamie Minamyer, Priscilla Garza, Driscilla Cardenas, Ingrid Chavez, Victoria Marquart, Jordan Mayes, Sarah Revis, Katherine Marks, Lindsey Morille, and Jasmine Grant.

Area Orchestra Students Audition for All-State Orchestra
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 4, 2008

On Saturday, November 1, two Morton Ranch High School orchestra students auditioned for Area Orchestra. Sixty eight violinists from our region showed up at Seven Lakes High School Saturday morning to audition for the opportunity to record for All State Orchestra. Out of those 68 violinists, Jason Lu and Haley Jones were chosen to record for All State Orchestra. Jason was ranked #2 in Area and Haley was ranked #10. This is a huge accomplishment! All State recordings will be judged on Nov. 8 and 9 from across the state and results will be posted on Sunday night, Nov. 9.

Morton Ranch Students Take Home Awards at State Journalism Workshop
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 4, 2008

Congratulations to Morton Ranch High School Amaranthine Yearbook Editors-in-Chief Christian Benavides and Oscar Tamez, who won an Award of Excellence at this weekend's state journalism workshop! The two editors won the award in the Theme Package category, working as a team to win the 2nd place award. Also winning an Award of Excellence at the convention this weekend was Yearbook Photo Editor Carly Herrera, who won 2nd place in the Open Photography category. Carly also won an Honorable Mention for People Photography. Congratulations to all the student journalists who attended this state workshop - they all made MRHS proud!

Morton Ranch High School announces 2008 Homecoming King and Queen
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 4, 2008

MRHS crowned this year’s Homecoming King and Queen at Saturday’s football game against Taylor. Ms. Astrid Mercedes Perez, daughter of Manuel and Claudia Perez, was named Homecoming Queen and is escorted by her father Manuel Perez.Astrid is an active member of Senior Women, has run cross country for the Mavericks, and is involved in the MRHS art program.Astrid plans to attend The University of Texas to study to become a surgeon. Mr. Christian Ocampo, son of Arcadio and Miriam Ocampo, was named Homecoming King and is congratulated by Mr. Joe Cammarata, MRHS principal.Christian has been a captain of the Morton Ranch High School Varsity soccer team his junior and senior year and is a member of the National Honor Society.Christian plans to attend Texas A & M University and major in Mechanical Engineering.

WoodCreek Jr. High Choir Presents First Annual Fall Concert
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 4, 2008

On October 21st, WoodCreek Jr. High Choirs presented their 1st Fall Premiere Concert.Director Lauren Burris put together a spectacular event featuring performances from all of the WoodCreek Jr. High Choirs.The concert program included performances by the Tenor Choir, the Combined Beginning Choirs, the Treble Choir, the Men's Choir, the combined Advanced Choirs, the Women's Choir, the WolfPack Singers, and the Combined WoodCreek Singers.The choirs enjoyed performing to a full house and starting a new tradition for a first year school.

Kilpatrick Students Just Say No
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 4, 2008

Kilpatrick students celebrated "Red Ribbon Week" with the SLHS Spartans.The football players spoke to the students about how important it is to stay away from drugs and focus on school.The Seven Lakes cheerleaders and Sapphire dancers kept the spirit going with a performance.

Dinosaurs Rock OKE
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 4, 2008

Earlier this month the traveling Dinosaurs Rock Museum visited Kilpatrick Elementary school. The kids were amazed at the life size artifacts and information they had for them to see, touch, and smell. At the end of the program each child was able to go on a "dig". They were able to uncover and keep fossils for their own collections. The OKE students had a great time on their Dinosaur adventure.

Brownies Hold a Mock Election
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 3, 2008

Brownie Troop #17073 recently participated in the Girl Scout Project Vote program and held their own Mock Election. The troop consists of girls from 8 different Katy schools and this is their fourth year of Girl Scouting together.

Williams Elementary Students Hold Kindergarten Fall Festival
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 3, 2008

Pumpkins, Scarecrows, and Bats…Oh My! On Friday, October 31st the Williams Elementary Kindergarten students celebrated fall by participating in a round of fun games that reinforced curriculum objectives. The students practiced their spelling at the Spell Spider station and created math patterns at the Pumpkin Patterns station. Children also sorted words by the number of syllables at Autumn Leaf Sorting and had fun identifying sight words at Pumpkin Bingo.

Spanish Meadows Nursing and Rehab Center Celebrates Halloween!
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 3, 2008

Spanish Meadows Nursing and Rehab celebrated Halloween with a party for residents, staff, and family. There was food, music, and smiles all around. Many of the grandchildren were on hand to help spread smiles to all with their great costumes.

KVA Players Attend Texas A&M Volleyball Game
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 3, 2008

About 50 players and family members of the Katy Volleyball Academy (KVA) recently traveled to Texas A&M University to watch the Lady Aggies take on the Sooners from Oklahoma University. Texas A&M won the match in 5 games. KVA is a local volleyball club offering girls the chance to extend and expand their volleyball skills after their academic season is complete by playing in USAVolleyball sanctioned tournaments. KVA offers girls from 12 to 16 the chance to play competitive volleyball from November until April. KVA practices at Faith West Academy in Katy.

Moxie Moms and Dagley Insurance and Financial Services Inc. Raise $1190 for Candelighters Walk
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 3, 2008




A team of Katy Area Moms, Dads, kids and even grandpas gathered at Terry Hershey park on a brisk fall morning to walk in the Candelighters Childhood Cancer Family Alliance Fundraising Event. The team, sponsored by Moxie Moms and Dagley Insurance Agency, walked in memory of MaKayla Scott and in Honor of Gage Geddes, both Katy children who have had cancer.The team raised $1190 in donations, which will be used towards the continuing outreach efforts of Candelighters in helping families cope with childhood cancer.

West Memorial Elementary Students Raise Money for Hurricane Ike Victims
Katy, Texas News
Posted November 3, 2008

On October 30, 2008 The students of West Memorial Elementary presented a check to The American Red Cross for the victims of Hurricane Ike.The students held a four week penny drive and the class with the largest donation was Ms. Mannion's kindergarten class.

New Information Center to Open at The Solana at Cinco Ranch
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 31, 2008

The Solana at Cinco Ranch, a luxury senior living community currently under construction and formerly known as The Sienna at Cinco Ranch, plans to open its Information Center Nov. 20. It is the latest milestone toward the scheduled fall 2009 opening of The Solana, which will feature concierge services, multiple dining venues, a wine bar, and a terrace club game room, among other amenities. The development of The Solana at Cinco Ranch marks the first time that independent living for seniors, along with assisted living, is being offered in the fast- growing master planned community in West Houston.
The community’s developer, Formation Development Group, decided to change the name from The Sienna to The Solana because the new name is especially representative of the community’s lifestyle, warm and sunny.
“The Solana at Cinco Ranch is going to take senior living to a new level of luxury and amenities,” said Rhonda Ferrell, Director of Community Relations of The Solana. “Solana, which means ‘a warm, sunny place,’ is a wonderful way to convey the lifestyle our residents will enjoy.”
Located at 24001 Cinco Village Center Blvd. in Katy, Tex., The Solana is next to LaCenterra, Cinco Ranch’s Main Street-styled center of shops, boutiques and restaurants. The Information Center will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The Solana at Cinco Ranch Information Center will accept reservations and provide information about available models, amenities and rental pricing.

Troop 230 Hosts New Scout Adventure Day
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 31, 2008

Troop 230 recently held its annual fall event, New Scout Adventure Day, on the scout house property. Scouts had stations for fire safety, first aid, knife safety, knot techniques as well as snow cones. Adults had stations for roasted turkey, hotdogs and Dutch oven cobblers. All Webelos scouts were invited. Troop 230 meets Monday nights at their scout house and is chartered by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church.

Senior Women Give Back
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 31, 2008

HS Senior Women held a canned food drive for Katy Christian Ministries at the Cinco Ranch/Morton Ranch game.

Dog Costume Contest Raises Funds
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 31, 2008

On Oct. 25 La Centerra hosted a CAP fundraising event with a dog walk, costume contest and talent / trick contest with prizes.Proceeds went to Citizens for Animal Protection.

CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital Honors Volunteer Of The Quarter
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 31, 2008

CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital honors volunteers every quarter.This quarter CHRISTUS St. Catherine honored a special volunteer, Janet Neylon.Janet has been a volunteer at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital for four years.According to staff members, Janet goes over and beyond the call of duty.“Even though her shift was over, Janet stayed to wheel a patient to the lab.The patient was having considerable problems and Janet stayed with her for almost 2 hours waiting for the lab results,” says Janet Utt of Day Surgery.Janet Neylon volunteers every Tuesday and Thursday in the pre-op area.She has helped in many areas of patient care.She wheels patients out to their cars, helps clean beds, answers phones, and takes specimens to the lab.She is a joy to be around and makes CHRISTUS St. Catherine a happier place.
“We are so truly blessed to have volunteers such as Janet Neylon to embody the spirit of CHRISTUS, and extend the healing hand of Jesus Christ,” says Neresa Williamson, Volunteer Coordinator at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital.“We are proud to have volunteers give up their time to assist patients and families.”If you would like to know more about our volunteer program at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital, please feel free to call Neresa Williamson at 281-599-5721.

Morton Ranch Homecoming Court Announced
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 28, 2008

Morton Ranch High School announced its 2008 Homecoming Court this week. Homecoming King nominees are Andres Lugo, Kristopher Yarger, Joseph Mitchell, Marshall Bell, and Christian O’Campo; and Homecoming Queen nominees are Astrid Perez, Hannah Cochran, Mallory Majcher, Jacquelyn Seuhs, and Kimberly Tran. Homecoming King and Queen will be announced at the Homecoming game against Taylor High School at noon on Saturday, November 1st at Rhodes Stadium.

Tooth of Time & Troop 230
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 28, 2008

Scouts and leaders of Boy Scout Troop 230 of Katy attended Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico this summer. Philmont is a high adventure camp for scouts age 14 and older. This photo was taken at the Tooth of Time which was a major landmark for the settlers on the Santa Fe Trail as the sight of the mountain meant the settlers were only two weeks from Santa Fe, New Mexico. During the trek, the crew hiked a total of 65 miles of mountainous territory carrying all their needed gear and food for 11 days. The crew scaled Mt. Phillips which is 11,711’ above sea level. Pictured in back row is: Cory Delaney. Middle row (L-R): LeRoy Martin, Kevin Schilly, Steve Anderson, Mitchell Anderson, Bobby Kirkwood, Robert Howell and Michael Schilly. Front row (L-R): Russ Rochelle and John Martin. Troop 230 meets weekly on Monday nights at their scout house; they are chartered by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Katy.

Seven Lakes High School Percussion Takes Top Prize
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 28, 2008

Congratulations to the Seven Lakes High School Marching Band Percussion Section. They were named the Outstanding Class 5A Percussion Section at the Lone Star Preview Marching Band Championship on October 18, receiving overall top scores in competition with 21 other high schools in the Houston metro area. In addition, they won top 5A Drum honors at the Foster High School Drumline Contest.Seven Lakes percussion students also earned awards for Best Snare Line, Best Tenor Line and Best Front Ensemble at the Foster contest."Four years ago the Seven Lakes band program started from scratch, and our students had very little marching experience," said David Reynolds, SLHS Assistant Band Director and Percussion Instructor. "It's really amazing to see how far our percussion students have come and how much they have accomplished so quickly."

Meng’s Martial Arts Hosts Kid Escape Seminar
Katy, TX News
Posted October 28, 2008

Meng’s Martial Arts of Houston located on Fry Rd. hosted another Kid Escape seminar for the community to give kids answers against abductors. Sifu Brad Ryan, owner of Meng’s bought licensing rights to the nationally known Kid Escape program created by John Hall from Ohio. Sifu Ryan plans on hosting them every 60 days for the community. “I felt an instant connection to the program, and we feel very passionate about educating the community on this very important information.” said Sifu Ryan. We are also working with the Fort Bend sheriff's office with Deputy Gerard Argao who teaches Stranger Danger awareness and we are also trying to do assemblies in the Katy school district on this subject.

Proclamation Presented by Katy Mayor to Chamber
Katy, TX News
Posted October 28, 2008

City of Katy Mayor Don Elder, Jr presented Steve Reichardt, Chairman of the Board for the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce the Proclamation for Texas Chamber of Commerce Week – October 20-24, 2008. The Chamber was honored for being instrumental in the creation of job opportunities and the expansion of the local tax base through its efforts to recruit new businesses and industry to the area. Steve Reichardt was pleased to be the representative for the Chamber to receive such an honor and to be part of local Chambers of Commerce in Texas who distinguish themselves as the voice of business.Proclamation was presented during the recent Katy Chamber Monthly Luncheon where the Southland Conference Commissioner, Tom Burnett launched their basketball season and announced that were returning to Katy’s Merrell Center for their tournament play. Tom Burnett praised the Katy Chamber, City of Katy and KISD for their efforts in making the Southland Conference Tournament a success and for the hospitality extended to the teams, coaches and conference staff.

Ribbon Cuttings – Katy Chamber News
Katy, TX News
Posted October 28, 2008

October 24th – Dr. James Maher, Gastroenterology – Katy Area Chamber of Commerce
Contact:
Susan Maher
Maher, James MD
21392 Provincial, Katy
281-945-5190
smaher@entouch.net

October 23rd - “Cane Island Post Acute Care”
Contact:
Ilicia Allen, Regional Director of Business Dev. & Market
281-236-5469
21727 Provincial Blvd., Katy
Ilicia.allen@kissitohealthcare.org

October 23rd - Physicians' Hair Restoration Center and Medical Spa
Contact:
Tedd Dicus - Vice President
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Ste. G205, Katy
281-347-4247 (Hair)
Tedd@hairdoctexas.com

October 16th - Sierra Classic Homes celebrated the opening of the new models at the Robertson Subdivision – Tuscan Garden Home Community
Contact:
Daryl Blanton
Sierra Classic Homes
6003 K. Street, Katy
281-391-1303
dblanton@sierraclassic.com

MKT Mortgage Golf Classic a Success
Katy, TX News
Posted October 28, 2008

Tad Adams, MKT Mortgage with Steve Reichardt, Chairman of the Board and Kurt Czupryn, Chairman of the Golf Committee getting ready for a great golf game at the 2008 MKT Mortgage Katy Chamber Golf Classic held at The Golf Club at Cinco Ranch Oct. 30th. Check the website www.katychamber.com for more details.

McMeans Jr. High Students Make Regions
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 26, 2008

Students from McMeans Junior High School, auditioned for and made the 2008 Region XXIII Honor Choir, which will perform on November 8th , 2008 at Cinco Ranch High School. The students in Picture are: Ella Porterfield, Rachel Treistman, Jonathan Yi, Zachary Kornblau, Omar Qureshi, Eubie Pabilona, Adam Blackhall, Brandy Jin, and James Resch.

Troop 424 Helps Out After Ike
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 26, 2008

Boy Scout Troop 424 in Katy participated in 3 different Hurricane Ike relief projects.The first was on September 20th when the Scouts went door to door in the Cinco Ranch area collecting non-perishable food for the victims of Hurricane Ike.The Cinco Ranch community generously donated more than six full truck loads of food that the Scouts delivered to Katy Christian Ministries for distribution wherever it was needed the most.Troop 424 had 30 Scouts and 20 adult leaders contributing more than 250 service hours for the surrounding community in this effort.
The second relief project took place the next day on Sunday, September 21st when the troop volunteered at the Houston Food Bank.The Scouts helped with the general assembly of food boxes as well as cleaning up the surrounding area as more food was being delivered.Some of the older Scouts were handing the assembled food out to the Hurricane Ike victims.The troop had 9 Scouts and 5 adults that participated in this relief effort.
The third relief project took place on Saturday, September 27th when the troop went to the VFW Park in Katy to cut down and clean up the park from all of the fallen and broken trees left by Hurricane Ike.The Troop dedicated more than 36 hours of service to help clean up the park for the Katy Community.

Women's Organization Provides Breakfast for Ike Evacuees
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 26, 2008

On September 29th, women from the Katy 2nd Ward of the Katy Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints served breakfast to about 50 Hurricane Ike Evacuees who had taken shelter at Grace Fellowship Methodist Church of Katy. The Relief Society of the Katy 2nd Ward provided a meal consisting of breakfast casseroles, fresh fruit plates to those staying at Grace church.

Katy Teen is Art Winner
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 23, 2008

Beethoven in Blue Jeans Art Competition Middle School Winner: Lizzie Martin, eighth grader at Faith West Academy, was a finalist in the Middle School Division for the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra's art competition. She was a recipient of 4 tickets to the symphony’s performance, an awards certificate, and an Academy Gift Card. Lizzie's artwork was on display at the Stafford Centre for the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra’s October 19th concert Beethoven in Blue Jeans. She donated her piece for a live auction to be held in November to raise money for the Fort Bend Symphony.

Kids Get Involved in Election
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 23, 2008

King Elementary is having their own 2008 Presidential Campaign. The 5th graders at King Elementary have nominated, and voted in candidates John McCain, Sarah Palin, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden. Students Pictured from left are representing the following people: Todd Palin, Sarah Palin with Baby Palin, Cindy McCain, John Mccain, Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Jill Biden, and Joe Biden.In the back row with the uncle sam hat is 5th grade teacher Ms. Marilyn Chevalier, and a few secret service men! Ms. Chevalier has been running Presidential campaigns every 4 years at King Elementary since the school opened. She is a very devoted historian, and the kids love learning from her.The candidates continue to debut and are gearing up for the election day on Nov. 4th, where King Elementary will all vote for the candidate of their choice. Also an inauguration will follow to swear in the new President!

Keller Williams Realty Gives Back
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 23, 2008

Keller Williams Realty Katy @ Cinco Ranch caught again for the 7th year giving back to the community by contributing over 215 volunteer hours for traffic control during the Katy Rice Harvest Festival. The community spirit in Katy continues to attract families from around the world as the place to live.

Hospital Offers Free Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) Testing
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 20, 2008

CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital will be offering free ABI Testing.According to the International Diabetes Federation Time To Act, every 30 seconds a lower limb is amputated due to diabetes.Over 12 million people will be diagnosed with Peripheral Arterial Disease this year.Even though the numbers are rising, Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) still goes undiagnosed.Unfortunately, the symptoms of PAD can be masked by diabetic neuropathy (numbness or tingling) or even blamed on old age.

PAD is on the rise. If untreated, PAD often results in limb loss. The ADA is now recommending that any person with diabetes over the age of 50 be screened for PAD.People under 50 with diabetes and more than one risk factor should also be screened.Screening only takes a few minutes and consists of a foot exam and an Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) test.

An ABI test is painless, and requires a blood pressure in the arm and leg.The measurement will indicate if there are blockages in the arteries that may require further testing.

Many area physicians have chosen CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital as their location of choice for treating patients with PAD.The Cardiac Catheterization Lab performs over 1,200 Cardiac and Peripheral cases per year.Due to the demand for these types of procedures in Katy, and the program’s tremendous success, construction is already underway to double their capacity by adding a second state of the art Angiography suite.

If you have any questions, or to schedule your free ABI test, please call 281-599-6658.

Sixth Grade Class Gets Motivated
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 20, 2008

Recently, School Board Representative Rebecca Fox spoke to Mrs. Barta's sixth grade Teen Leadership class at WoodCreek Junior High.Rebecca is an awesome motivational speaker inspiring the students to use the "Seven-Ups" of leadership.

Life Remembered...Troops Honored
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 17, 2008

To pay tribute and honor her late daughter, Nicole Corser's 18th birthday, Green Trails resident Becky Corser and dozens of her friends and supporters (headed up by Marilyn Wayne) assembled more than 55 care packages for troops in Afghanistan. "Nicole valued our soldiers and their sacrifice for our freedom here in the U.S., and she would have wanted to honor them. It's also our way of honoring Nicole," says Mrs. Corser. Nicole, an honors student at Taylor High School, lost her life in an automobile accident last November. In each care package was a thank you card with Nicole's picture and her story. A special thanks to Holiday Inn Express, Omni Hotel, Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza, the Houstonian and Westside Chevrolet for their generous donations.

Bake Sale Benefits Hurricane Victims
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 17, 2008

After Hurricane Ike sent his calling card, Carol Schwartz decided to send a different calling card. Carol is a Katy resident, local mom, and small business owner. Not knowing what else to do, she decided to do a bake sale. She baked for days and with the help of her children, Crystal and Jarret, they set up for business with a goal of $500. Neighboring children, Evon Goodwyne, Alex Gannon, Olivia Claire, and Halle Williams joined in the effort. By noon their goal had been reached and the decision was made to keep selling.

The total amount raised was $966.72, in one day! Carol then went to Grace Fellowship shelter to donate, only to find that the shelter had been closed. Grace Fellowship, referred her to Erin Cox, a church member, who was doing a clothing/book drive for O’Connell Senior High School on Galveston Island. Erin was working with Cornerstone Presbyterian, The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch and Compassion Katy.org. to meet the urgent needs.

The “Bake Sale” money will be used to provide Gift Cards to help the children and the families most in need from the hurricane. It just takes one person, one family, or one group of average, ordinary, everyday superheroes to make a difference, one cookie at a time.

Comedy Sportz Dates Announced
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 17, 2008

Morton Ranch High School has announced its Comedy Sportz team and competition dates for the 2008-2009 school year! Members are pictured, and following are the dates Morton Ranch will compete (all shows are at 7 pm): November 6 (at Morton Ranch), November 13 (Faculty vs. Student Match at Morton Ranch), February 9 (at Mayde Creek HS), February (Katy HS), February 24 (at Cinco Ranch HS), February 26 (at Seven Lakes HS), March 12 (at Morton Ranch), April 16 (at Cinco Ranch HS), May 7 (at Morton Ranch), and May 15 (at Mayde Creek HS). Tournament dates will be announced.

Volleyball Team “Plays for the Cure”
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 17, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School volleyball team recently participated in “Play for the Cure,” a fundraiser for breast cancer research. Pictured are the Maverick Junior Varsity team, including (top row, left to right) sophomore Taylor Weigand, sophomore Caitlin Howell, sophomore Haley Atwood, junior Denevia Bradshaw, sophomore Brittnie Curtis, junior Cheyenne Jancaric, junior and team manager Katie Dunham, and sophomore Sarah Stanton; (bottom row, left to right) sophomore Jenna Orlando, coach Kati Gercans, sophomore Whitney Glover, sophomore Sarah White, and junior Tiara Nero.

Diabetes Fundraiser Needs Donations
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 17, 2008

The Diabetes Support Group of Katy is hosting a fundraiser at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital. Residents of Katy and the surrounding areas are asked to donate new or gently used books, DVDs, CDs and tapes now through Oct. 23. Items can be dropped off at the Diabetes Education Office at Memorial Hermann Katy at 23900 Katy Freeway.On Oct. 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the donated items will be resold in the Family Resource Center, which is located in the lobby of Memorial Hermann Katy. All proceeds will be donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Walk-to-Cure on Oct 26th at First Colony Mall in Sugar Land. For more information on the fundraiser, call 281-644-7055.

WoodCreek Elementary Celebrates Moms and Dads
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 14, 2008

On Friday, October 3rd, WoodCreek Elementary celebrated a PTA sponsored event, "Muffins with Mom".One week later, on October 10th, the PTA sponsored"Donuts with Dad".Both events were extremely successful.Participation was enormous.Parents and their children ate breakfast together, visited the school store, listened to music, and visited with friends.

Morton Ranch PTO Supports Staff
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 10, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Parent-Teacher-Student Organization (PTSO) brought snacks and lunch to the faculty and staff of Morton Ranch on Friday. The PTSO supports teachers by regularly bringing snacks and awarding outstanding faculty with prizes, among other things. Pictured are Sandi Ivanovich and Margaret Pendergrast, members of this year’s PTSO, with part of Friday’s spread.

Eagle Project Involves Planting Trees
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 9, 2008

Ryan Phillips, a Life Scout from Katy Troop 1001 and Sophomore from Mayde Creek High School, recently planted trees in the Mayde Creek Extension Park for his Eagle Project. He was assisted by the Harris County Parks Coordinator Steven DuBois, fellow Scouts, Mayde Creek High School students and parents. Ryan is under the direction of Scoutmaster Gerard Spinnler.

Seven Lakes Cheerleaders Win Big at Camp
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 7, 2008

Seven Lakes HS Varsity Cheerleaders attended camp at Texas A&M University where the girls exemplified teamwork and school spirit earning the UCA spirit stick.The girls won several accolades; a superior trophy and four superior ribbons.Chelsea Ricketts and Kelsey Mitsdarffer were chosen as “All-American” cheerleaders and Brenden Winkfield was chosen as an “All-American” mascot.

Troop 557 Bikes Through Terry Hershey Park
Katy, Texas News
Posted October 4, 2008

Boy Scout Troop 557 met Sunday, September 28th for a 15 mile bike ride through Terry Hershey Park which helped the scouts meet a requirement for their camping merit badge. For more info on Boy Scout Troop 557 email Derek Spier at dspier1@comcast.net.(Schools represented are MRJH, BDJH, KJH, Woodcreek JH, SLHS, MRHS and WMJH)

Meng’s Martial Arts Founder visits Katy
Katy Texas News
Posted on October 2, 2008

Master Benny Meng, Founder of Meng’s Martial Arts in Dayton, Ohio visited the new branch school Meng’s Martial Arts of Houston located in Katy TX on Fry Rd. Master Meng held a 2 day seminar. The seminar was to educate the students on the training progression of the 3 halls of Shaolin Kung Fu. Going from basic exercise to basic movements to fighting applications based on all 4 ranges, to final the 3rd hall which is based on maximum efficiency/martial science. Sifu Brad Ryan owner of the Katy branch was excited have the new students of Katy meet his teacher. Sifu Brad Ryan and Master Meng also discussed their book project together to further education the martial arts community on their research of training methods in the martial arts.

Karate for Kids and ATA Black Belt Academy Hosts Tournament
Katy Texas News
Posted on October 2, 2008

Karate for Kids and ATA Black Belt Academy of Katy hosted Release the Power ATA class A Championship Tournament on September 26-27th at the KISD Merrell Center. Nemours competitors from the United States competed in Tae Kwando Form, Sparring, and Weapons demostration. Some of the local winners from Katy ATA Academy were (photo, left to right) Alexandre Dugas, Kelly Hester, Jonathan Cash.

“The Heart of a Lion”
Katy Texas News
Posted on October 2, 2008

On Thursday, September 18, a group of students, parents, and teachers from Pope John XXIII High School in Katy worked alongside staff and students from Clear Lake Christian School to repair the damage caused by Hurricane Ike.When the group of volunteers arrived at the site, there was no power, and the school and church had sustained severe damage caused by wind and water.The sometime rivals on the baseball and softball fields, worked side-by-side removing moldy carpet, replacing damaged ceiling tiles, and doing general site clean-up.They worked in 4 hours shifts with only the light provided by emergency generators.That same day, another group of students, parents, and teachers worked with Catholic Charities passing out food, ice, and water to those families affected by the hurricane.The response to the call for volunteers by Arland Nichols, Pope John XXIII’s Director of Campus Ministry, was so great that a third group returned to Clear Lake Christian School on Friday to continue the relief efforts.Service is a hallmark of Pope John XXIII High School, and more than 25% of the student body took part in relief work for those affected by Hurricane Ike.

Pack 281 Donates to Hurricane IKE Victims
Katy Texas News
Posted on October 2, 2008

The Cub Scouts motto is “Do Your Best.” Most everyone in our area was affected in some way by Hurricane Ike, big or small, but everyone’s hearts feels deeply for those affected significantly. The cub scouts of Pack 281 in southwest Katy felt that they could make a difference to hurricane victims by putting food back on the shelves of the Katy Christian Ministries’ food bank as part of the Scouts Food Drive for Ike relief. During their September pack meeting held at Griffin Elementary, scouts stacked up non-perishable foods they brought for hurricane victims. The scouts of Pack 281 did their best to provide food for area food banks and will continue to do their best to help their community. Cub Scout Pack 281 is comprised of boys from first through fifth grade who attend Bonnie Holland and Michael Griffin Elementary Schools or who live nearby.

Middle School Student Wins PS3 at the Gathering
Katy, TX News
Posted September 30, 2008

Aragon Middle School student, Aaron Fletcher, was the winner of the PS3 giveaway at CrossPoint Community Church’s first youth Gathering event on Wednesday, September 3. Aaron dropped his name into a silver bucket along with 200 other students and went home with the grand prize! His family recently moved back to the Houston area after living overseas for four years. He loves sports, especially football and softball, and is active in team sports at school. Aaron is quickly adjusting to life back in Houston, is active in youth group activities at CrossPoint’s Westgreen campus, and enjoys making new friends and helping others. The Gathering is held on the first Wednesday of every month for all junior and senior high youth and features live bands, free food, and special attractions like September’s rock climbing wall and PS3 giveaway.For more information call 281-398-6464.

Pack 548 has First Pack Meeting
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 30, 2008

Pack 548 held its first pack meeting for the 2008-2009 school year at Kilpatrick Elementary on Monday, September 22nd.Many new scouts were in attendance. Scouts come from Kilpatrick, Griffin, and WoodCreek Elementary.As in years past, the Pack kicked the year off in style by inviting the Snake Man to come and give a LIVE presentation.The boys learned about different types of snakes and what to do in case they are ever bitten.To add extra excitement, the boys got to touch, examine, and even wear different varieties of snakes.Excitement was everywhere!!!

Elementary Students Help Out After IKE
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 30, 2008

In the wake of Hurricane Ike, Alexander elementary students [L to R] Erica Golenzer, Dana Barker, and Sydney Ruddock organized a bake sale fundraiser for the CAP (Citizens for Animal Protection) animal shelter.Thanks to many caring Grand Lakes residents, the girls were able to present CAP with $101.14.

Pack 548 Helps Out After IKE
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 30, 2008

Katy Boy Scout Pack 548 held a food drive at La Centerra in Cinco Ranch on Saturday, September 21, 2008 to support the Hurricane Ike Relief Effort.As the vehicles arrived, the boys were eager to help unload and see the many donations.It was a rewarding experience for the boys to be able to assist in such a worthy cause.Pack 548 would like to express our gratitude to the many people that donated.Thanks again!

HURRICANE IKE AFFECTS HOUSTON AREA

Due to the number of submissions related to Hurricane Ike, please be sure to check your local news and radio stations for updates. For school closures, event postponements, and more, we recommend verifying all information with the direct sources.

We hope that you have made it through the hurricane safely. Feel free to submit your hurricane photos. Thank you,

Katy, Sugar Land, and Cy-Fair Magazines

Community Wide Service this Sunday
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 19, 2008

We have all been impacted by Hurricane Ike in many ways. Out of this tragedy has come an opportunity for us to come together to worship and bless our community. Because KISD schools are closed many churches will be without a place to worship this Sunday. If you are a church meeting in a KISD school you are invited to be a part of a community service where we will all gather for celebration and community as the Body of Christ.

Where: The Katy Family YMCA
When: this Sunday September 21 at three different service times 8:45, 10:05 and 11:25

Adult Worship: in YMCA gym; Nursery: birth – 1 yr. at the YMCA (all three services); Children: 2 yr. – 5th grade at The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch building across the street from the YMCA. (all three services); Youth: Combined 6th grade through 12th grade youth service aerobics room at the YMCA. (10:05 and 11:25 hours)

There will be opportunities to give back as well.Mobile blood bank. If you can and would like to give the gift of life through a donation of blood. There is a great need!Bring non-perishable foods for the hurricane relief. Katy Christian Ministries is in need and you can help.

HELP FOR IKE VICTIMS

No Electricity? The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch is here to offer relief to those in our area without power. We will have our church open daily from 3-7 pm for families to enjoy a cool place to rest, have a meal, play a game or watch a movie.

Air Conditioning
Wireless Internet
Charge Cell Phone
Movies
Hamburgers
Popcorn
Board Games
The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch, 22765 Westheimer Parkway, is located at the corner of Peek Rd and Westherimer Parkway. We can be reached at 281-395-3950 and our website address is www.thefellowship.org.

Memorial Hermann, Rediclinic Offer Free Prostate Screenings
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 11, 2008

Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer diagnosed among American men. And, although one in six American men will get prostate cancer in the course of his lifetime, if it is caught early, nearly 100 percent survive. Screening may detect prostate cancer even before symptoms appear. Men age 50 and older should consider annual screening with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal exam (DRE). African-Americans and others with a family history of prostate cancer should have both tests beginning at age 45.

Memorial Hermann and RediClinic are offering free prostate cancer screenings during September. See a complete listing of locations, dates and times below. Registration is required. To register, call 713.222.CARE (2273).RediClinic locations are conveniently located inside HEB grocery stores. Screenings will be held on Saturday, September 27 and Tuesday, September 30 and will include the PSA blood test only. Call 713.222.CARE (2273) to register.


Memorial Hermann Katy, Thursday, September 25, 5 – 8:30 p.m.,

Medical Plaza 1, Ste. 100, 23920 Katy Freeway


RediClinic (inside HEB), Grand Parkway, 6711 S. Fry Rd., Katy, TX 77494

PJHS Cheerleaders Win Superior
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 11, 2008

The Pope John XXIII High School Varsity and Junior Varsity cheerleaders brought home
top awards from the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) Summer Cheer Camp
held July 29-August 1, 2008. Camp was hosted by Texas State University in San Marcos,
Texas. The Varsity squad competed in the Home Pom competition and earned a second place Superior team trophy and ribbon. The Varsity and Junior Varsity cheer squads combined to compete daily in sideline, cheer, and extreme routine evaluations. The cheerleaders received five blue and two gold Superior ratings and were awarded a UCA Spirit Stick daily. The girls also won a Superior team trophy in the Camp Champ competition. Ellen Stidham, Samantha Dante, Lauren DeBolt, Catherine Ponder, and Caitlin Auffenberg earned Camp Star awards by competing in the All-Star competition. Freshman and Varsity cheerleader, Caitlin Auffenberg, was selected as a “UCA All-Star.” Congratulations, ladies, on a great start for your upcoming cheer season.

Ag Adventure
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 11, 2008

On Saturday, August 30, the Morton Ranch High School Agriculture department kicked off the school year with their annual Ag Adventure, held at the Katy ISD livestock barns. With over 200 new students in the agriculture classes this year, Ag Adventure is a great way for students to get to know one another and learn from the start that the Maverick FFA is all about team work. Students participated in many different games, including Agriculture Jeopardy, Musical Water Trough, Pass the Cow Tongue, Dodge the Rumen, and the advisor’s challenge.

Coach Gives Tennis Pointers
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 11, 2008

Coach Greg Tielke, head tennis coach at Morton Ranch High School, gives the tennis team a few pointers before the recent Fort Bend Team Tennis Tournament. The Maverick varsity tennis team, suffering with blisters from their shoes and sun burn, fought to win their bracket, remaining undefeated by the end of the tournament. Each of the team members played eight matches; Morton Ranch defeated Lamar Consolidated High School 12-7, Foster High School 14-5, Dawson High School 14-5, and Cy-Fair High School 10-9. Congratulations to the Mavericks for a great start to their season!

Volleyball Team Sweeps Competition
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 11, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Maverick Volleyball team swept their competition September 9, winning all three of the games played against Alief Elsik. Varsity final scores were 25-23, 23-25, 25-12, and 25-17. Junior Varsity scores were 25-21, 21-25, and 25-15. Freshman A scores were 25-23 and 25-16.

Omni Houston Hotel Westside Goes Phone Book Free
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 9, 2008

Omni Hotels is hanging up on phone books for good. The luxury hotel brand recently announced that it will immediately recycle its current stock of approximately 30,000 phone books and eliminate future use of phone books at all of its properties. Guests in need of information such as phone numbers and addresses can readily seek it by calling the hotel concierge and or by going online via Omni Hotels Wi-Fi or high-speed Internet access. With this move, Omni estimates it will save 217 barrels of oil, 760,200 gallons of water, and 445,260 kilowatts of energy per year.

Katy Mills Displays Purple Heart Memorial
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 9, 2008

David Lemak receives a symbolic gold key from Mace Hirt, right, to a prime location in Katy Mills mall near Entry 4 and the Bass Po Shops. Lemak is commander of Chapter 723 Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), and Hirt is mall manager at Katy Mills. Looking on is Peyton Lumpkin, commander of Post 9182 Veterans if Foreign Wars. Lemak announced the space will be used to house a traveling exhibit – the Texas Fallen Heroes Memorial Mural. It will arrive here Sept. 8 and be open for a week starting Sept. ll. He explained that the 24-ft. long memorial travels on six shipping pallets and features engravings of the 415 Texans who have been killed in action to date in Iraq and Afghanistan. “Our state purple Heart organization plans to tour Texas to exhibit the mural in every city and town where the family of a fallen hero resides,” Lemak added. Lumpkin said the VFW members are lending a helping hand to the smaller Purple Heart group in setting up and hosting the Katy Mils display. The MOPH is made up of combat-wounded veterans and is active in the Katy area in community activities and veterans affairs.

Sapphires Take a Walk on the Wild Side
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 5, 2008

The Seven Lakes High School Sapphires took time to enjoy their back-to-school line camp in August by celebrating their “Walk on the Wild Side” theme in costume.

Hospital Celebrates Two Years of Service
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 5, 2008

Katy Rehabilitation Hospital Celebrates its 2nd year serving Katy and the greater Houston community. Founded in August of 2006, Katy Rehabilitation Hospital is located in the Katy Medical Complex at 21720 Kingsland Blvd. The hospital offers a variety of services including Inpatient physical rehabilitation, Outpatient physical therapy, Diagnostic Imaging, and a Wound Care Center with hyperbaric medicine.The hospital will be celebrating its anniversary with special events for the physicians and its team of 135 employees.
Many residents of Katy are surprised to learn that a state-of-the art rehabilitation facility exists closer to home than they’d thought. Since Katy Rehabilitation Hospital opened its doors in August of 2006, the hospital has cared for over 1000 Inpatients in its 35 bed facility and over 16,000 patients on an Outpatient basis. A patient-centered approach is at the heart of the hospital’s mission – and recent patient satisfaction surveys reported that 100 percent of Katy Rehabilitation patients would recommend the hospital to a loved one. “Our mission is to improve the quality of life and promote the independence of those we serve,” states Danique VanDongen, MD, the Physiatrist who serves as Medical Director for the facility. “There is no greater feeling for our physicians, nurses, and therapists then watching a patient walk out of here with a new lease on life.”

Mavericks Win First Game
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 5, 2008

The Morton Ranch Maverick football team celebrates as they win the first game of the season! The Mavericks celebrated a final score of 41-22 on Friday, August 29, in the season opener against Tomball High School. Photo by James Chargois.

Senior has Poem Published
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 5, 2008

Tina Galindo, a senior at Morton Ranch High School, will have her poem “Guardian Angel” published in Immortal Verses, a publication of poetry.com. Tina was searching for scholarships through Fastweb.com when she received an email about the poetry contest. She submitted her poem, which was inspired by the feeling of peace, as if someone is protecting her, she has when home alone.

Jung Ordination Fulfills Childhood Dream
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 5, 2008

On Sunday, August 31, 2008, David Jung’s childhood dream to become a pastor was realized when he was ordained and installed at CrossPoint Community Church. As the son of a pastor, David knew what he wanted to do from an early age. David earned his B.A. in Theological Studies at Concordia Irvine, California, his M.A. in Theology and Culture; Pastoral Certification at Concordia Irvine California and Concordia Seminary St. Louis. He grew up in Korea, spent a year in the Philippines (at age 14) doing missionary work, and came to the US in 2000 to attend college and seminary in order to pursue his education to become a pastor.He will be responsible for creating and overseeing CrossPoint’s Community Outreach and Service ministries. David will also serve as the “resident expert” in how to better connect with the local Korean/Asian population. By working closely with campus pastors and other leadership staff, he will continue building bridges between the Katy community and CrossPoint. David says, “I’m energized by meeting new people. I see myself as a sower of seeds for Christ.”He and his wife of three months, Eunah, currently live in Houston and will move to Katy in Spring, 2009.

Mann Eye Institute Featured in Forbes
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 5, 2008

LASIK specialists, Drs. Mike and Paul Mann, of Mann Eye Institute and Laser Centers, were recently honored as one of the most dependable LASIK practices in the United States. The tribute was bestowed by Goldline Research for excellence in laser vision correction. The results appeared in Forbes July issue. Drs. Mike and Paul Mann are among an elite group of 10 practices across the country selected to receive this prestigious award and the only practice selected in the Houston/Katy area.Mann Eye Institute and Laser Centers offers Blade Free LASIK with the advanced Allegretto and Intralase lasers at their Katy location. For more information visit manneye.com.

Volleyball Coach Gives Winning Pep Talk
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 2, 2008

Volleyball coach Katie Gercans gives the Morton Ranch High School varsity volleyball team a pep talk during their recent match against Waller High School on August 26. The Lady Mavericks pulled out their first home game win of the season, with final scores of 25-21, 25-15, and 25-21. Player Lyanne Colon was awarded the Nobody Plays Harder Award for her outstanding performance during the match.

Kids Help School Get Off to Safe Start
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 2, 2008

Pattison Elementary Safety Patrols make sure students get into the school safely on the first day of school.

‘People Hunt’ Get Kids Excited About Back to School
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 2, 2008

Pattison Elementary 4th grade classes recently gathered to have a "People Hunt."This mixer, used to help them get to know their peers better, involved finding out things like who has an August birthday, who ate cereal for breakfast, who can whistle and other trivia.

Taylor Band Readies for School
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 2, 2008

Approximately 2 weeks prior to the opening of the school session, the Taylor Band participates in "Summer Band" to learn & practice the up-coming year's music & marching show. Their hard work and dedication is rewarded with a pizza/swim party as well as fun "Olympic" style games to help build teamwork and camaraderie.

Pastor Proves you can go Home Again
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 2, 2008

Jon-Michael Vasek has been selected as the new youth director intern for CrossPoint Community Church – SevenLakes campus. Talk about returning to your roots! Vasek first came to CrossPoint as a teen in the 9th grade and joined the youth band as a bass player. During his time as a youth group member, he took on many leadership positions and stayed active in the band as he mentored other youth. His years at CrossPoint led to a decision to pursue a career in Christian education, specifically with youth.
Jon-Michael has recently completely his studies at Concordia University in Austin and his internship with CrossPoint -- SevenLakes will complete his degree requirements. He and his wife of three months, Keri, will move from Austin to Katy in January. For more information about CrossPoint Community Church go to www.crosspt.org or call 281-398-6464.

Katy Teacher Uses Distance Learning
Katy, Texas News
Posted September 2, 2008

Mrs. Lauri Crestani, calculus teacher at Morton Ranch High School, is working to help ensure that Katy ISD fulfills its initiative to utilize distance learning equipment. Crestani teaches a face-to-face BC Calculus class at Morton Ranch High School, and students from Katy High School are able to see her and interact with her at the same time. Distance learning equipment, available to both send and receive transmissions, is available on high school campuses in Katy ISD, and the equipment gives students a broader range of available classes and preparation for college. Pictured are Crestani and students from the BC Calculus class at Morton Ranch High School.

Care Van a Success at St. Catherine’s
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 30, 2008

Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Care Van of Texas and CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital recently teamed up to provide free immunizations, giving more than 800 vaccinations to 135 uninsured children in the Katy community. This is CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital’s second year providing free immunizations to uninsured children.The Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Care Van of Texas supports the immunization program, in which volunteers drive immunization units to provide access to the medically underserved. The program collaborates with local communities to provide free immunizations to uninsured Texas children.For more information about the immunization fair, call Christa Clifton at 281-599-5181.

PTA Work Day Fun
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 30, 2008

Pattison Elementary PTA held a work day before school started to get packets ready for students. While the parents did this, the kids helped in other areas of the school.

Katy/West Houston Aggie Moms Gather for “Howdy” Social
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 30, 2008

Katy/West Houston Aggie Moms recently gathered for the annual Texas A&M Howdy Social at Memorial Lutheran Church in Katy.The group welcomed incoming freshman students, honored graduating seniors and presented scholarships to deserving students.The Katy/West Houston Aggie Mom’s Club will meet to kick off the new school year on Thursday, September 6 at 7 PM at Living Word Lutheran Church located at 3700 South Mason Road.Moms and supporters of current and former students are invited to attend.For more information, please call the Aggie Moms Hotline at 281-394-8108 and visit katywesthoustonaggiemoms.com.

Best Buy Gives to Katy YMCA
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 27, 2008

In a recent presentation at the Best Buy store in Katy, staff and management of the store presented the Katy YMCA a check for $2,000 towards the YMCA’s Partners Campaign.The donation was a culmination of not only financial support of the YMCA, but also of volunteer and technical support to the area non-profit.Earlier this year, the staff and management of Best Buy put in over 80 man hours of volunteer time in various YMCAs events and programs.Additionally, the staff of Best Buy used their technical expertise in helping set up equipment for the YMCA’s Child Watch area.For their efforts, YMCA Marketing Director, Beth Strand, presented the Best Buy team with a giant hand-made thank you card signed by the kids of the program.
For more information about volunteer opportunities at the YMCA or how you can support the YMCA’s annual Partners Campaign fund, contact the Katy YMCA at(281)392-5055 or ymcahouston.org

Another “Slammin” Summer at CrossPoint
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 27, 2008

CrossPoint Community Church has just completed their annual Summer Slam program for kids ages 3 years – 5th grade. The event took place throughout the summer in four 2-week sessions, with over 700 children participating in the program. Participants chose from learning tracks that included Mind Games, Sports and Recreation, and Arts and Crafts in full day or half-day sessions. To learn more about sports and learning opportunities offered throughout the year by CrossPoint’s unique Sports Ministry, go to crosspt.org or call 281-398-6464.

Omni Sales Manager Receives National Certification
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 27, 2008

Mary Patterson, Business Travel Sales Manager, was recently recognized at the 2008 40th Annual National Business Travel convention.She along with 65 other graduates received the distinction of Certified Corporate Travel Executives with the national association. The Certified Corporate Travel Executive (CCTE) is the recognized certification course for corporate travel professionals; designed for professionals with at least two years of experience in the business travel field. The CCTE program is offered through a partnership between NBTA and the University of Houston Conrad Hilton College of Hotel & Restaurant Management. For more information about the Omni Houston Hotel Westside guests can call 1-800-THE-OMNI or visit the hotel’s Web site at www.omniwestside.com.

Tommy Dante Completes Eagle Project
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 27, 2008

Tommy Dante, Life scout in Troop 925, completed his Eagle project at the Katy Visual Performing Arts Center (KVPAC). His project was to build crowd control fences to help keep children out of the parking lot during student drop off and pick up. Tommy’s project involved building and painting four sections of fence. He, along with members of Troop 925 and Pack 925, completed the fences in three work days throughout the summer. Pictured is Tommy Dante of Troop 925 and Mr. Layne School of KVPAC signing off on the project in his Eagle workbook. For more information about Boy Scouts and Troop 925, please visit our web site at www.bsatroop925katy.org or call Joe Dante at 281-395-3357.

Crossbridge Starts New Services
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 22, 2008

In June of 2007, Bishop Janice Huie of the Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist church appointed Rev. Howard Huhn to a bold new task – forming a new United Methodist congregation in Southwest Katy. Now, with a year of planning and development, Crossbridge United Methodist Church is pleased to invite the entire community to participate in celebrating the beginning of worship services. Starting on October 5, 2008, services will be held from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Sundays at the newly built Bonnie Holland Elementary in the Seven Meadows Community. In conjunction with the start of worship, Crossbridge will also begin a vibrant children’s ministry named, B.L.A.S.T. – Boldly Living According to Scripture and Truth. The children’s ministry will feature lively music and lessons along with crafts and other activities.In addition to an exciting children’s ministry, Crossbridge will also have a professionally trained and staffed nursery and a preschool program designed to teach God’s truth to younger children.
Bonnie Holland Elementary is located at the corner of Seven Meadows Parkway and Gaston Road in the heart of Seven Meadows. Information about Crossbridge as well as an interactive map to the worship location can be found at crossbridgeumc.org.

Katy Senior Inspires Teachers
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 22, 2008

Crystal San Martin, a senior at Morton Ranch High School, spoke to over 6,000 staff and faculty of Katy ISD at this year’s convocation, held on Wednesday, August 13. Crystal’s speech was about the importance of education and the integral role teachers of Katy ISD have played in her educational growth. A non-native speaker of English, Crystal moved to the United States five years ago. She credits her teachers with her progression from English language learner to convocation keynote speaker. As she named specific teachers throughout the district who have impacted her life and growth as a student, her sincerity and eloquence moved many in the audience to tears. Crystal is a member of the National Honor Society and is a captain of the varsity girls soccer team, and Morton Ranch is proud to have her as a member of the 2008-2009 graduating class.

Troop 230 Attends Philmont Scout Ranch
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 22, 2008

Scouts and leaders of Boy Scout Troop 230 of Katy attended Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico this summer. Philmont is a high adventure camp for scouts age 14 and older.While at camp, the crew hiked a total of 85 miles of mountainous territory carrying all their needed gear and food for 11 days. They were led by PSR staff member, Krista Weatherford. Troop 230 meets weekly on Monday nights at their scout house; they are chartered by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Katy. For more information on Troop 230, log on to their website: troop230.org.

TSO Doctor Awarding Scholarships
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 20, 2008

TSO’s “See a Better Future Scholarship” is being presented to a deserving high school student from Katy ISD by Rose Virani, OD, therapeutic optometrist at TSO’s office on Westheimer Parkway near Target. According to Dr. Virani, “The $1,000 scholarship is my way of spreading the message to the community about the importance of good vision to our children’s ability to achieve academic excellence. The Doctors of TSO believe every child deserves to see their best.”

New Library Cards
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 19, 2008

A new library card will soon be available at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Cinco Ranch Branch Library -- the e-Card --which will be used only for access to and printing from the library’s electronic resources.Beginning August 25, patrons who do not have the standard library card may apply to get the e-Card, which will allow them to use library computers and access electronic resources such as the online databases. Internet access with the e-Card will be filtered only. Access to the electronic resources with the new card will also be available from home or office computers. Money may be deposited to the e-Card, so that patrons can print from the computers at the library. Patrons should note, however, that the e-Card does not allow for checking out library items such as books, CDs, DVDs, and videos.Library patrons who currently have the standard library card will not need to get the new e-Card because their current card already allows them full access to all of the library resources. Patrons cannot have both the standard card and the e-Card.There is no charge for the e-Card, but if it is lost, a $2.00 replacement fee must be paid. Proof of residency is not required to get the e-Card, and there are no age restrictions.For more information on the new e-Card or other library programs and services, call the library’s Public Information Office at 281-341-2677 or the branch library at 281-395-1311.

Principal Attends Maverick Night
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 19, 2008

Mr. Richard Celestine, 11th grade Assistant Principal at Morton Ranch High School, assists at Maverick Night this past Monday. Seniors and their parents filled Morton Ranch to get their schedules, textbooks, enrollment cards, and much more. Many club sponsors were also on hand to recruit new students to their organizations, and the sounds of the Maverick band filled the halls as students wandered through, visiting friends and collecting information. Juniors, sophomores, and freshmen will have the opportunity to attend Maverick night for the rest of this week.

TSO Offers Eye Care Tips
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 18, 2008

Eye care professionals have an important message for parents who believe school eye screenings can detect every vision problem: They can’t. Rose Virani, O.D., with Texas State Optical (TSO) in Katy, says there are ways to ensure your child is getting proper eye care.Vision changes over time and children should get professional eye exams every year, even if there are no apparent problems. Early help can make all the difference.
First, review your family’s health history because genetics count. If someone in the family has suffered from misaligned eyes, childhood cataracts or another serious eye disease, it’s even more important to see an eye care professional. Next, protect your kids’ eyes.More than 40,000 eye injuries occur every year during sports activities and almost all are preventable.Lastly, check in with the teacher.Teachers notice signs and symptoms that parents may miss. Often, they can spot eye problems early. Ask your child’s teacher to alert you to anything unusual.
Ultimately though, it’s important to schedule an eye exam with a qualified eye care professional.

Cinco Ranch Cheerleaders Camp News
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 18, 2008

The Cinco Ranch High School JV cheerleaders recently attend a NCA cheerleading camp at SMU in Dallas. The team competed for the Game Day Top Team Award earning a 1st place trophy. A NCA spirit stick was awarded for showing outstanding spirit for all of the days at camp. The team also earned a bid to compete at the national level. Shannon Nataluk and Erica Nelson earned the distinction of All-American Cheerleader.

Boy Scouts on Adventure
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 16, 2008

Boy scout troops 1288 and 230 sent two crews to the Northern Tier High Adventure Camp in Canada in July of this summer. The boys and their leaders canoed between 76 and 110 miles over 10 consecutive days in the waters of Manitoba, Canada.

Seven Lakes Color Guard Hard at Work
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 16, 2008

The Seven Lakes High School Color Guard has been hard at work during camps held this summer as they work to build off the successes achieved last year. The team is looking forward to exciting new challenges and opportunities during the upcoming 2008/2009 season as they perform and compete in the 5A classification for the first time in SLHS history. The SLHS guard is directed by Scott Ehman and assisted by Kayce Melody.

“Green” MRI Machine Now Available
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 16, 2008

Katy Rehabilitation Hospital has incorporated a remarkable diagnostic tool for helping physicians reach confident diagnoses to provide the best patient care. The Signa HDe 1.5T MR system from GE Healthcare delivers highly detailed images of the human body with high speed, excellent resolution and unique applications. The MR is one of just two of its kind in the Houston area and is also the same system that will scan injured athletes at this summer’s Olympic Games in Beijing. According to Jenny Maxwell, CEO for Katy Rehabilitation Hospital, this advanced technology provides quick exams and great comfort for patients, while providing high diagnostic confidence for doctors.To learn more, please visit katyrehab.com or call 281-579-5555.

Hospital Announces Pathway to Excellence Designation
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 16, 2008

CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital is pleased to announce it has achieved Pathway to Excellence™ designation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The Pathway to Excellence designation identifies the elements of work environments where nurses can flourish. The designation substantiates the professional satisfaction of nurses at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital and identifies it as one of the best places to work. “We are very pleased to receive this designation which indicates that CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital is a place nurses want to work,” says Barbara Lazor, Chief Nursing Officer at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital.As a Pathway to Excellence™ designated organization, CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital is committed to nurses, to what nurses identify as important to their practice, and to valuing nurses’ contributions in the workplace. This designation confirms to the public that nurses working at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital know their efforts are supported.

Morton Ranch Football Team Hard at Work
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 16, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Maverick football team is already hard at work in preparation for this year’s season! Scott Svendsen, athletic coordinator at Morton Ranch, says the players are looking forward to an exciting season: “Our kids have worked hard, and we’ve made great strides. We’re on the path to success, and a successful season is where we’re headed. Our kids know with hard work comes great accomplishment, and they’re ready for that.” Be ready for the Mavericks to make a mark this year in Houston and the surrounding areas! For their first scrimmage, the Mavericks will travel to College Park on August 22. Their first home game is against Tomball at Rhodes stadium at 7:00 on August 29.

Hospital Volunteer Recognized
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 16, 2008

Effie Rahman, a graduate of Seven Lakes High School, will be attending Rice University pursuing a career in medicine.She has been an excellent student and a great volunteer at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital.Effie’s time as a volunteer has helped her gain experience with patients and patient families.It has given her awareness to consider a career in medicine.Each year the volunteers award a scholarship to a deserving junior volunteer who has served at least 100 hours in our hospital.Effie Rahman received the scholarship award this year. We look for people who have the desire to five of themselves and help others.Effie showed us with her commitment and desire that she was a dedicated volunteer.

Katy Music Teachers Association Scholarship Winners
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 12, 2008

Sean Casey and Rachel Luegering, both 2008 graduates of Cinco Ranch High School, were the recipients of the 2008 Katy Music Teachers Association Patricia Byrnes Memorial Scholarship, presented to them on May 19 at Cinco Ranch High School. This scholarship is given to outstanding graduating senior musicians who are either majoring or minoring in music. Sean is a piano student of Mary Ann LaCour and Rachel studies piano with Susan Lieberman. Sean will be entering a double degree program majoring in Economics at Case Western Reserve University and String Bass performance at Cleveland Institute of Music. Rachel will study Flute Performance at Texas Tech University.

Katy Music Teachers Association News
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 12, 2008

The High School Piano Ensemble representing the Katy Music Teachers Association performed recently at the Texas Music Teachers Association 94th convention, held at the Houston Hyatt Regency.

The Elementary Piano Ensemble representing the Katy Music Teachers Association performed recently at the Texas Music Teachers Association 94th convention, held at the Houston Hyatt Regency. The students performed The School Bus Serenade by Susan Ogilvy and Dennis Alexander.

The Intermediate School Piano Ensemble representing the Katy Music Teachers Association performed recently at the Texas Music Teachers Association 94th convention, held at the Houston Hyatt Regency. The students performed The Skeleton's Ball by Mike Springer.

Katy ISD Earns “Recognized” Rating from TEA
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 12, 2008

Outstanding student achievement in 2007-08 produced a “Recognized” accountability rating for the Katy Independent School District, a “grade” earned by just over one in four (27.8%) of the state’s 1,030 public school districts.On the 2008 Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), districtwide performance for all students tested in all grades reached the “Exemplary” level (90%-plus) in reading/language arts (96.2%), math (90.3%), writing (97.0%) and social studies (96.4%), and the “Recognized” level (80%-plus) in science (86.1%). On 25 TAKS performance indicators (five student groups tested in each of five subject areas), Katy ISD reached the “Exemplary” level on 18, “Recognized” on four and “Acceptable” on three.
Seven out of nine campuses in Katy ISD (35 of 45) earned “Exemplary” or “Recognized” ratings in 2008.Sixteen (35.6%) are ranked “Exemplary”; 19 (42.2%) are “Recognized”; and 10 (22.2%) are “Acceptable”; compared to statewide data, which shows that 12.4% of public schools are rated “Exemplary”; 35.1% are “Recognized”; and 42% are “Acceptable.” (The remainding 10.5% are “Unacceptable” or not rated.)
Katy ISD is one of the most populous and diverse districts in Texas to earn the coveted rating. The district had a 2007-08 student enrollment of 53,560, with 49.2% minorities and 25% economically disadvantaged. According to Texas Education Agency data, 46% of the state’s 287 “Recognized” districts have a total enrollment of less than 500. Approximately 56% have less than 30% minority enrollment, while 27% have less than 40% low-income students. Only 19 “Recognized” districts have 10,000 or more students.
Superintendent Alton Frailey gave credit for the upgraded rating to a “team effort” throughout the district.

Maverick Marching Band is Hard at Work
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 12, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Maverick Marching Band is hard at work! Under the direction of Ronald Todd, Director of Bands, and Stephen Bond, Assistant Director of Bands, the 2008-2009 Maverick Band has been practicing morning, noon, and night, sometimes for twelve hour days, at Morton Ranch to prepare themselves for the upcoming school year. Morton Ranch faculty and students are proud of the hard work put forth by their dedicated band members!

Katy Resident Earns Award from State Rep
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 12, 2008

State Representative John Zerwas and owner of TextMyMLS.com Randy Smith have teamed together to award the Business Leadership Scholarship to Chris Cermin.Chris is a 2008 graduate of Cinco Ranch High School in Katy.Chris was active in athletics at Cinco Ranch High School playing basketball and football.He was a member of the varsity football team’s leadership council and starting defensive back.He was also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) for 4 years and served as Vice President of Community Service during his junior and senior year.Chris organized student volunteers and participated in many community events such as the Cinco Ranch Triathlon, American Heart Association Relay for Life, Katy Rice Festival, Krause Center for Disadvantaged Youths, Katy Christian Ministries Santa’s Sleigh, Katy Rotary Fun Run, and coaching youth football.In 2008, he helped lead the Cinco Ranch High School UIL Accounting Team to a first place finish in district competition where he placed 2nd overall.Chris will attend the University of Houston where he will pursue an advanced degree in the Professional Program in Accounting (PPA).

Fulshear Gets Noticed
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 12, 2008

Fulshear Friday Night in Fulshear has been named a finalist in the Best Promotional Event category for the 2008 Texas Downtown Association Presidents Awards Program. Since 1998, the Awards Program has recognized more than 100 projects, events and people that make a difference in Texas downtowns.
The Best Promotional Event award recognizes excellence in creation and execution of downtown or commercial district promotional events, including festivals. Finalists will make a presentation at the Texas Downtown Revitalization Conference “Creating Partnerships for Downtown” in Temple on November 13th. Winners will be announced at the Awards Gala to be held that evening.

Troop 925 Climbs Mt. Baldy at Philmont Scout Ranch
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 12, 2008

Several members of Troop 925 spent 12 days in the backcountry at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. While at Philmont, the crew of 11 hiked over 80 miles and scaled up to the top of Mt., Baldy at 12,441 feet above sea level. During their hike, the boys shot black power rifles, threw tomahawks, rode mountain bikes, and performed several team building and leadership exercises. When the hike was complete, the crew went into Cimarron and enjoyed the triple play of a burrito, calzone, and milk shake.

KVPAC Summer Camp Goes Disney
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 12, 2008

Disney's Aladdin Jr. performed at KVPAC summer camp August 1 & 2, 2008.

Chamber Ribbon Cutting
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 8, 2008

Dagley Insurance and Financial Services’ Ribbon Cutting with the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce 7-31-08.
Dagley Insurance and Financial Services
23102 Seven Meadows Parkway
Katy, TX 77494
281-644-1000

Brownie Troop Thanks Cold Stone Creamery
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 7, 2008

Thank you Cold Stone Creamery at LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch.What a BLAST we had on 7/29/08! A Cold Stone quiz, a scavenger hunt, becoming ice-cream creators, & splashing in the water ... what more could Brownies ask for! We are all so delighted that you opened up your ice cream shop for our Troop. Thank you SO much for helping us beat the heat & create lasting memories. It is always so special to share these moments with the girls, together. Your staff was very friendly & helpful & our girls really got the "experience" of the job. Their favorite fact was that at 16, they can get a job at Cold Stone & will receive a free "Love It' size of ANY flavor/mix-in every day they work. Brownie Troop# 17259 sends a special thank you!

National Night Out Rescheduled
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 4, 2008

Due to the threat of severe weather resulting from tropical storm Edouard, the Second Annual Cinco Ranch National Night Out event at LaCenterra will be rescheduled for Friday, August 15. The event was to be held Tuesday evening, August 5 as part of a nation-wide crime prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch.

Charity’s Animal Rescue & Shelter (C.A.R.S.) Seeks Volunteers
Sealy – Katy, TX
Posted August 4, 2008

C.A.R.S is a non profit organization dedicated to helping the animals of Austin and surrounding counties.Since Austin County does not have an animal shelter, C.A.R.S. was formed to help the many abused, neglected, unwanted and abandoned animals in the area.C.A.R.S. is a volunteer only organization and there are no paid positions within the organization.We are currently in great need of volunteers to foster dogs, help with fundraisers, assist with adoption days and help with the daily care of upkeep of our foster dogs.
We’re in need of volunteers in the following areas: Foster Parents, Fundraising, Adoption Day Volunteers, Kennel Volunteers, Dog Trainers, Web Update Volunteer, PR Volunteers, Grant Writing Volunteer and a Handyman Volunteer. If you have a few hours of time to help our organization, please contact Niki or email cars04@gmail.com or 979-877-0980.Please indicate the volunteer position you are interested in when you send an email or leave a message. Thank you, and we look forward to hearing from those who love animals as much as we do!

Hospital Performs First Single Incision Gallbladder Removal
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 3, 2008

CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital is continually advancing in technology.Dr. Ricardo Bonnor, general surgeon on staff at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital, performed one of the first single-incision gallbladder removals in Houston.The procedure consists of removing the gallbladder through a unique operation requiring only a single incision in the bellybutton rather than the traditional four incisions in the abdomen.
Gallbladder disease is one of the most common illnesses that affect Americans.It causes inflammation, infection, stones or obstruction of the gallbladder.It is caused by conditions that obstruct the flow of bile from the gallbladder.
Dr. Ricardo Bonnor attended medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch. He completed his residency at University of Texas Southwestern and is fellowship trained in gastrointestinal laparoscopy and bariatric surgery from Duke University.
If you would like to get more information please contact Christa Clifton 281-599-5181.

Famous Painting Given to Mayor Elder
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 3, 2008

Membership of the Floyd E. Breedlove Post 9182 saluted Katy Mayor Don Elder and his respect for veterans issues by using the Monday night council meeting to present the mayor with a famous Vietnam era painting. In making the presentation, newly installed Post Commander Peyton Lumpkin, right, noted that the painting is named Looking Back; When duty called, we answered and was commissioned by the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 78 in Virginia. The three-ft. by four-ft. oil painting is the work of Paul R. Jones, for over 30 years an Air Force officer specializing in military art. Every image depicted in the painting, held by Stephen Brady for the ceremony, relates to basic events that occurred on or over Southeast Asia land and water. (VFW photo/Tom Journeay)Leader in Children’s

Chamber Ribbon Cuttings Celebrate New Businesses
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 2, 2008

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce’s Ribbon Cutting celebrating Members Choice Credit Union’s newest location in Seven Meadows (07-29-08)Their ribbon was covered with money donated to the Society of St. Stephen’s Home Delivered Meals of Katy Program. The donations are enough to cover one senior’s meals for a whole year!
Contact information:
Members Choice Credit Union
8951 S. Fry Road
Katy, TX 77494
281-398-9900

First United Methodist Church – Katy
Society of St. Stephen – Home Delivered Meals of Katy
Coordinator: Nevelynnn Melendy
713-828-4371

Ministry Joins Church
Katy, Texas News
Posted August 2, 2008

CrossPoint Community Church is pleased to announce that Michelle Thompson will be the new Director of Children’s Ministry effective August 14, 2008. Ms. Thompson has served as the Director of children’s ministry at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Louis, MO for the past eight years and brings a wealth of experience to her new position at CrossPoint. She will be responsible for overseeing all curriculum and instruction for children ages preschool to 5th grade, as well as all social events for families of this age group.
Ms. Thompson will oversee Children’s Ministry for two locations: the original site at 700 S. Westgreen Boulevard and a second site located in Seven Lakes High School at 9251 S. Fry Road, both in Katy, Texas. Additionally, she will interface with CrossPoint’s Sports Ministry Director, John Moore, and Junior and Senior High Youth Director, Pastor Jason Dail, to provide a coordinated effort to impact youth both at CrossPoint and in the Katy community.
Learn more about CrossPoint Community Church and CrossPoint’s Children’s Ministry at http://www.crosspt.org or call 281-398-6464.

Troop 490 Takes Scout Trip
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 30, 2008

A group of Scouts from BSA Troop 490, chartered by Knights of Columbus Council 6950, St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, Katy Texas, left for Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico on July 24th. They will hike for 10 days and return to Katy on August 7, 2008.

Pack 1029 Holds Food Drive
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 30, 2008

Cub Scout Pack 1029, chartered by First United Methodist Church in Katy had a food drive for Katy Christian Ministries (KCM) with the Christmas in July theme. 450 bags were distributed in the Pin Oak Village Subdivision by Webelos II-- Indian Chiefs Patrol-- Marshall Anderson, James Berckenhoff, Micah Burdette and Ian Sokoll,-- Webelos I-- Den 2 -- Brian Berckenhoff and Erik Sokoll and Bear Cub --Mason Anderson. The Cub Scouts were able to collect about 200 bags of food from Pin Oak Village--Thank You Pin Oak Village residents who participated-- and were joined by Webelos II Jordan Goodrow, also from Pack 1029 who also held a food drive in his neighborhood. The food was delivered to KCM Food Pantry on Thursday, July 24th.

Lacenterra Announces New Office Leases
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 30, 2008

Business growth in the greater Katy area has continued unabated via new start-ups, expansions and relocations. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch has seen the addition of nine new office tenants during the first half of 2008. Center management reports approximately 25,000 square feet of class “A” office space was leased between January 1 and June 30. Of the center’s 90,000 square feet of available space, over 51% has been leased and more than 23,500 square feet is under negotiation.For additional information on commercial, office and medical leasing, contact Lee Jeane or Louann Orlando of CB Richard Ellis, 713-577-1600. For information on retail leasing, contact Susan Longley of Jones Lang LaSalle, 241-321-3881.

Local Business Owner Attends Homemade Gourmet National Convention
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 30, 2008

Kim Sharp of Katy, Texas attended Homemade Gourmet’s 2008 “All Things Are Possible” Family Reunion national convention on July 18-19 at the Marriott in Plano, Texas. Together with more than 200 Consultants in attendance, Kim celebrated Homemade Gourmet’s accomplishments during the past year.Kim is among the 1,600 Homemade Gourmet Consultants nationwide who help people make great-tasting meals fast and was recognized in the top 10 of Team Promotions at Homemade Gourmet’s recognition banquet July 19. Contact Kim Sharp at easytopreparemeals@gmail.com today to learn more.

Chamber Enjoys Newland Communities After Hours
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 28, 2008

Members of the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce enjoyed the hospitality of Newland Communities - Simply Cinco for their July Business After Hours Event (7-22-08).Simply Cinco New Home Information Center located in the LaCenterra Shopping Center provided a superb venue for our members to relax, network and find out about the extensive development of the Katy Area with their master planned community.Katy Area Chamber of Commerce’s monthly Business After Hours are the 4th Tuesday of the month from 5:30pm – 7:30 pm. Our calendar of events can be found at katychamber.com.

New Eagle Scout – Troop 424
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 23, 2008

Mason Kushnir is the newest Eagle Scout of Troop 424, Katy, Texas.He is a Junior at Seven Lakes High School in Katy.Mason chose a project to benefit the Houston Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition as his Eagle service project, which he completed in April.He finished all the requirements for his Eagle rank in May.During his time in Katy, he has participated in the troop’s high adventure program by going on two treks at Philmont Boy Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico, and by attending Florida Sea Base in their scuba diving program.Additionally, Mason is active in the Colonneh Chapter of the Order of the Arrow, and has attended National Youth Leadership Training in Texas and the National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience in New Mexico.Please help us congratulate Mason on his accomplishment of becoming an Eagle Scout.

Katy Boys State Winners
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 23, 2008

Five Boys State winners in the American Legion citizenship program attended the local Legionnaire’s recent meeting to report on their Boys State activities at Austin. Henry Thomas, 3rd from left behind the flag, chaired the activity for Katy’sJonathan D. Rozier Post 164 and introduced the local high school honorees. Thomas noted that the Katy Legionnaires hoped to expand the number of Katy-area high school seniors they could send to the annual week-long Boys State where students participate in day-to-day operations of various state offices. Legion Post 164 meets the 4th Wednesday at 7:30p.m.at Elks Lodge #2628 on Katy-Fort Bend Rd. near U.S. Highway 90. (VFW photo/Tom Journeay).

Katy Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 23, 2008

Elizabeth McCoy, Claudette Clay, and Rachel Roquemore work on a floral arrangement at the Katy Christian Women’s Connection July luncheon. Several floral arrangements were made to sell at the KCWC Fall Festival in October. For more information about Katy Christian Women’s Connection, please visit KatyCWC.org.

Former Nasa Manager Becomes Ordained Pastor
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 23, 2008

CrossPoint Community Church is pleased to announce the ordination of Karl Schuler on Sunday, July 20, 2008.The ordination will take place at CrossPoint, located at 700 S. Westgreen Boulevard, Katy, TX and will be celebrated at both the 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM services.Schuler was originally the Deputy Director of Human Resources at the Johnson Space Center (NASA) when he felt called to enter into full-time ministry.He completed two years of study at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO and a one year pastor internship at CrossPoint.He will continue to serve at CrossPoint as an Executive Pastor with the responsibility of coordinating ministry functions for CrossPoint’s Westgreen and Seven Lakes locations along with the individual campus pastors.He lives in Katy with his wife, Diane, and their two children. For questions or additional information please call 281-398-6464.

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 20, 2008

Presentation about their recent trip to Washington D.C.; the local VFW Post 9182 touched the hearts of the full capacity crowd at the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce’s July Luncheon. The local VFW achieved their goal of taking its World War II and Korean War veterans to the war memorial in April. Their presentation reminded us of the sacrifices of these men and woman. It was an honor for the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce to spotlight these local heros. Presentations were made by Senior Vice Commander, Michael Mastrangelo and Post Executive Assistant, Stephen Brady; both of whom are Vietnam Veterans.

Local Students Attend Choir Camp at Texas State University
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 20, 2008

Josh Rucky, an 8th grader at Beckendorff Jr High (on left), and Michael Schwin, an 8th grader at Wood Creek Jr High, both attended Hill Country Choral Camp this summer. The four day camp was sponsored by the Katy Choral Society. It was held at Texas State University in San Marcos and participating students stayed in the campus dorms. The camp concluded with a concert for friends and family. Both students are taking choir as an elective this fall and plan to stay active in choir throughout high school.

Grayson Lakes 4th of July Celebration
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 20, 2008

WCJH’s mascot and 8th grade cheerleaders participated in Grayson Lakes’ first annual 4th of July parade. Pictured in the back row from left to right are: Sara Stout, Annie Rhymes, Tori Holsey, Ashley Wall, Katie Rudik and Erika Mercado. In front row are: Timber wolf mascot Lily Palmer, Camilla Reed and Nathalia Rojas. Not pictured: Carley Roseberry, Hannah Martin, Mayra Martin, McKenna Holcomb and Angie Bohac, the cheerleaders’ sponsor. Ms. Bohac will also be teaching Science this year at WCJH. This new school is scheduled to open in August.

Four Seven Lakes Choir Students Sing at Grayson Lakes’ 4th of July Celebration.Pictured (l-r) are Meilina Moore, Remington Stanberry, Matthew Melancon, and Caroline Badalamentei. All four sang the National Anthem and a few other patriot songs a cappella.Meilina, Matthew and Caroline are Seven Lakes High School graduates Class of 2008 and will be attending college in the fall. Remington will be a junior at Seven Lakes this coming school year. All students were members of SLHS choir and made Region Choir as well. Meilina & Caroline also qualified for All State choir. For those not in attendance, they did a beautiful job honoring our country!

Boy Scouts of Troop 230 Participate in Parade - Nat Smith, Elliott Raia and Michael Schwin are all scouts with Boy Scout Troop 230 in Katy (left to right). They recently served as the color guard for Grayson Lakes’ 1st Annual 4th of July parade. Troop 230 is chartered by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church. The troop meets on Monday nights during the school year at their scout house across from Taylor High School. For more information visit their website troop230.org.

Katy Chamber Ribbon Cuttings
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 20, 2008

Orleans Seafood Kitchen (7-10-08)
20940 Katy Freeway, Ste. G
281-646-0700

Candlewood Suites (7-15-08)
19998 Park Row
281-578-9993

Austin 300 (7-17-08)
5415 E. 5th Street
281-391-5166

Chamber Business Builders Breakfast
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 20, 2008

State Representative John Zerwas with the “kids” from ARC of Katy at the recent Katy Chamber of Commerce Business Builders Breakfast sponsored by Tradition Bank (7-16-08).Helping make their dreams a reality is Tradition Bank who donated the proceeds from the event to them. The ARC of Katy took the hands of each of our members and touched our hearts.

Mustang Named Best Places to Work
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 20, 2008

Mustang Engineering (“Mustang”), part of international energy services company John Wood Group PLC (“Wood Group”), announced that it ranked #4 on the ‘Best Places to Work’ survey among Houston companies with 501+ employees.The survey was administered by the Houston Business Journal, and the official announcement was made at the award luncheon held June 25 at the Westin Galleria Hotel.Mustang was the only project management and engineering firm named to the list.

Primrose Tour Members Have Fun While Learning
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 20, 2008

Betty Edmondson, center, is frequently surprised by the quality of questions asked by pre-school and school-age children during tours. Edmundson is Curator and Administrative Manager of the Katy Veterans Memorial Museum and plays an important role in planning and conducing museum tours. Seated.at the check-in desk, ready to relate personal wartime experiences to the touring youngsters, is a member of the museum speakers bureau, veteran Clementi Silva A member of the post or its Ladies Auxiliary is always on duty when the museum is open.. Books, tapes and discs covering every war the United States has fought may be reviewed at the museum, and some, checked out. The museum is located in the VFW Hall on George Bush Drive, just off Ave.D. Contact 281-391-VETS(8387) or vfw9182@fbt.net. (VFW photo/Tom Journeay).

Katy Pony Baseball Congratulates Players
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 13, 2008



Katy Pony Baseball would like to congratulate its first ever All-Star Shetland 4/5 year old Champions and runners up. On July 1, 2008, the Crushers ended the season on top with a record of 10 and 1. The Wolverines finished the season with a record of 9 and 2. Both teams did an exceptional job executing plays and teaching the young boys the fundamentals of the game. Special thanks go to Manager Jason Bastubee, Coach Marcus Hayes, our assistant coaches, team mom, Melany Bastubee and the parents of these exceptional players.

Bands Earn State Ranking
Katy, Texas News
Posted 7/9/08


Cinco Ranch High School’s Wind Ensemble and Cinco Ranch Junior High School’s Honor Band have advanced to the State Level of Honor Band Competition!The Texas Music Educators Association’s State Honor Band competition occurs every two years, with 5A and 3C bands in even numbered years.Many directors consider this the most prestigious contest of all to win with many of the high school’s top bands performing college level selections.

Katy Family YMCA Back-To-School Drive
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 9, 2008

For the fourth consecutive year, “YMCA Operation Backpack” joins the forces of 38 YMCAs, local churches, and other partners to touch the lives of tens of thousands of Houston area children and families this school year.Thousands of school supplies will be collected for children who might otherwise go back to school unprepared.
This year, beginning July 12th through August 17th, YMCA Operation Backpack will collect brand new backpacks filled with school supplies and distribute them to children in 31 Houston area school districts.The 38 YMCA of Greater Houston facilities throughout the city, including the Katy Family YMCA, will serve as collection sites for people to drop off backpacks and supplies.
The Katy Family YMCA is working with First Baptist Church of Katy, located at 600 Pin Oak Road, which will be given a collection bin in addition to the 3 Katy Tradition Bank locations.The school supplies collected will be distributed to children in the Katy Independent School District.
YMCA Operation Backpack is supported by 89.3 KSBJ radio and ABC 13.To find the YMCA donation location nearest you, log on to ymcahouston.org or call 713-659-5566.

Katori Nation Supports Katy YMCA Partners Campaign
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 9, 2008

Katori Nation of Katy recently donated $11642.12 to the Katy Family YMCA Partners campaign. These funds will be used for scholarships and support of the YMCA Camp Cinco program. The check was presented by David Wagner and Kurt Atkinson, representatives of the Katori Nation of Katy, and received by Brian Haines, Katy YMCA Executive Director. Katori Nation is now part of the YMCA Adventure Guides enrichment program for children entering grades K-3 which fosters the parent/child bond. For more information on this program, contact Brandon Gonzalez at the Katy YMCA, 281-392-5055.

Barmore - Bunn Wedding
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 4, 2008


Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Barmore and Mr. and Mrs. James Saulsberry are proud to announce the marriage of their daughter Lara Elizabeth Barmore to Matthew Alan Bunn. Matthew is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Commander Alan Bunn and Mr. and Mrs. Myron Busboom. Lara and Matthew exchanged wedding vows on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Clear Lake. The bride is a 2001 graduate of Deer Park High School. Lara received a Bachelor of Science from Stephen F. Austin State University, Class of 2005. Lara is currently a Wellness Coordinator for The Methodist Hospital. The groom is a 1998 graduate of Clear Creek High School. Matthew served in the U.S. Army from 1999 to 2007. He served in the Anbhar Province, Iraq as a team leader of a Mounted Infantry Unit and received an honorable discharge in November of 2007. Matthew also has a degree in Bio-Environmental Science from Texas A&M University, Class of 2002. He is currently the Assistant Director for Coastal Conservation Association of Texas.
The couple now reside in Katy, Texas with their two labs Ella and Ale.

National American Miss Texas Teen Crowned
Katy, Texas News Posted July 2, 2008


June 23rd, 2008 saw the crowning of a new National American Miss Texas Teen at the Wyndham Hotel in Houston Texas. Grabbing the crown was Seven Lakes High School Senior Kelsea Faith Russo. She will be attending the National Pageant in Anaheim, California at Disneyland during the Thanksgiving week, representing the great state of Texas. Kelsea will also be vying for her share of over $500,000 in cash and prizes. "Hard work and determination helped me reach my dream of becoming a state queen. I hope to be a role model for girls of all ages," said Kelsea. She is the daughter of Cindy and Tom Russo of Katy and has been competing in pageants for over 4 years. Kelsea is a national Honor Society student that enjoys volunteering at her church, attending sportig events, and having fun with her friends and her family.

Chamber Networks in Style
Katy, Texas News Posted June 2, 2008

June 24th Members of the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce enjoyed the hospitality of Bella Salon and Day Spa. Networking has never been so relaxing!
Bella Salon and Day Spa
2004 S Mason Rd
281-392-7676

Newest Chamber Ribbon Cuttings
Katy, Texas News
Posted July 2, 2008

Verizon Wireless - The City - June 26th
5000 Katy Mills Circle #145 (Inside Circuit City)
281-644-2700

Meat Masters Inc. – June 28th
2020 S. Fry Road, Ste G
281-646-0505

Pack 239 Helps Out
Katy, Texas News Posted July 2, 2008

The Webelo dens from Pack 239 recently completed a service project along with Harris County Parks Department to add new trees to the walking trial at Mary Jo Peckum Park. Pictured from left to right are scouts: Dylan Leong, Paulo Leal, Blake Rosella, Dalton Meredith, Jacob Torres, Jaerod Washmon and Eric Ropka. Adult scout leaders included Tysen Leong, James Meredith and Jeff Washmon.

Troop 925 Hikers Go 15 Miles at Inks Lake
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 28, 2008

This past weekend, several members from Troop 925 went hiking at Inks Lake in preparation for their summer trip to Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. The scouts and adult leaders hiked 15 miles from Inks Lake to Long Horn Caverns in Burnet County. For more information about Troop 925 and Boy Scouts in the Katy area, please contact Joe Dante at 281-395-3357 or visit us on the web at www.bsatroop925katy.org

Troop 557 Participate in “Day to Serve”
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 28, 2008

Boy Scout Troop 557 participated in "Boy Scouts Day to Serve" and delivered meals for the Society of St. Stephens through Katy Memorial Herman Hospital. The schools represented are BDJH and MRJH

Third Grader Wins 3rd at Art Contest
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 28, 2008

Julia Gonzalez (age 9), a third grade student from Exley Elementary School, won third place in the City of Houston Art Contest this spring. She drew herself working with her father as a firefighter for the city of Houston.

Katy Christian Ministries Get 3rd Truck
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 28, 2008

Donnie Sanchez, Katy Christian Ministries’ Resale and Volunteer Administrator, joyously stands with Mike Miller and his Donation Center staff as they welcome the Ministry’s third box truck. The truck was recently donated and blessed by Second Baptist Church. Grateful thanks are also extended to Cliff Jones dealership.

Katy ISD Hosts Golf Tournament
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 27, 2008

Katy ISD Junior Achievement recently hosted its annual golf tournament to raise money for the organization that impacts approximately 30,000 students last year. With the expected increase of student involvement, Junior Achievement raised $25,000 to bring materials to more 33,000 Katy ISD students in the 2008-09 school year.

Katy ISD Offers Online Enrollment
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 27, 2008

Katy ISD parents who plan to enroll new students for the 2008-09 school year now have the option to pre-enroll their children online at https://preenrollment.katyisd.org/. The main purpose for this option is to cut down on paperwork, clerical errors, and the system will also save parents time when they come to enroll their children on the designated registration dates in August. Parents are still required to provide the mandatory immunization and residential documentation in person at their designated campus, however, by using the online system parents can input general information for all their children at the same time.
The first day of school for the fall 2008 semester for all grades is Monday, August 25, 2008, and parents of new students entering Katy ISD for the first time are asked to register their students prior to the beginning of classes. Additional information about registration requirements can be found at katyisd.org.

Katy ISD Bands and Orchestras Advance to State
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 27, 2008

The following bands and orchestras were selected to advance and compete in the final round of competition for the title of:
Class 5A State Honor Band – Cinco Ranch High School, Mike Ouellette – director
State Honor Full Orchestra – Cinco Ranch High School, Brett Nelsen – director
Class 3C State Honor Band – Cinco Ranch Junior High School, Rory Davis – director
These groups first competed at the Region level (combines a minimum of three school districts) then competed at the Area level (combines winners from a minimum of 3-4 Regions), before they were selected to compete for the state championship. The final round will be held in San Antonio in July. The group selected as the Texas State Honor Band/Orchestra will perform in San Antonio next February at the Texas Music Educators Association Annual Clinic and Convention.
In addition, the Cinco Ranch Junior High Full Orchestra, directed by Ms. Jennifer Jernigan, has been selected as a National Honor ensemble and will perform at the Midwest Clinic – an International Music Conference in Chicago, Ill. next December.

May Luncheon at KCWC
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 25, 2008

Kyllie Watts, Janet Collins, Carolyn Kitzman, Simone Dyer, and Carol Jones who modeled clothes from Coldwater Creek – La Centerra at the May luncheon of the Katy Christian Women’s Connection. The Katy CWC meets once a month at the Golf Club at Cinco Ranch for food, fun, and fellowship. For more information, please visit KatyCWC.org.

Pack 548 Goes Aboard
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 24, 2008

On June 7th, boys and parents of Katy Cub Scout Pack 548 went to Corpus Christi, TX for an overnight adventure aboard the U.S.S. Lexington. They learned first hand about the past of the Lexington, which included the kamikaze attacks and being named the "Blue Ghost". They took tours of the ship, watched movies in the MEGA Theater, ate aboard, bunked in the original crew quarters, attended a flag ceremony, listened to ghost stories, and much more! Everyone had a blast!

Chamber Celebrated Two Ribbon Cuttings
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 24, 2008

Texas ENT Specialists
June 19th Ribbon Cutting
Jennifer Welch
23902 Katy Freeway Suite 430
713-828-7143

Communicare Associates Inc.
June 20th Ribbon Cutting
Alisa Prewitt
810 S. Mason Road #140
281-923-8778

Katy Coogs Alumni Club Scholarship Winners
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 24, 2008

Winners of the 2008 Katy Coogs Alumni Club Scholarship: Brenda Yoo from Katy Taylor High School, Lananh Van from Cinco Ranch High School and Rom Crespo, President/Founder of the Katy Coogs Alumni Club. The Katy Coogs Alumni Club is a charter club of the University of Houston Alumni Organization that serves UH alumni in the West Houston area (Katy, Cy-Fair, Spring Branch, Alief, Memorial, etc.) to promote the University of Houston and to raise funds for scholarships to local high school seniors attending UH after graduating high school. For more info about joining the Katy Coogs or donating to the Katy Coogs Scholarship Fund, visit our website: www.katycoogs.com

Newland Communities Grand Opening
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 24, 2008

When the Holmes family of Houston decided to visit the grand opening of the new Model Home Village at Cinco Ranch in May, they had no idea that they would win the grand prize, a $1,000 gift card for shopping and dining at LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, awarded by Newland Communities. Citing Katy ISD schools as the top reason for moving to Cinco Ranch, the family closed on a new Pulte home in the 7,600-acre community in June, becoming some of the newest Katy residents. Lenore Tasker of Cinco Ranch (left) and

Morton Ranch Seniors Class Gift
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 21, 2008

Senior Principal Rómulo (Rom) E. Crespo, from Morton Ranch High School in Katy ISD, stands next to the life size Bronze Maverick statue donated by the Graduating Class of 2008. This gift to Katy ISD and Morton Ranch High School was voted on by the Senior Class of 2008 and presented at the school's Senior Chill Out held on Friday, May 23, 2008 and also during the MRHS Graduation Ceremony held at the Leonard E. Merrell Center on Sunday, June 1, 2008.

H.A.T.S. for ESP
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 21, 2008

The ladies of the Chi Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. hosted its second annual H.A.T.S for ESP brunch and seminar at Azzarelli’s Restaurant in Katy, TX.
H.A.T.S. for ESP stands for Health and Treatment Strategies for Enhancing Spiritual and Physical Well-Being. ESP is the Sorority’s national initiative focusing on Health Resource Management and Economics. Chairperson Pamela Sledge-Coley and her committee hosted over 60 guests who dined on a healthy yet exquisite brunch menu.
Dynamic speakers for the event gave energetic presentations and left attendees with a wealth of information regarding, medical care, physical exercise, nutrition and spiritual well-being.
All attendees received a free one-day pass to the Katy YMCA and one lucky attendee received a free 4-week bootcamp session to the Fitness Bootcamp 4U.
Proceeds of the ticket sales for this event went to the Chi Omicron Omega chapter Scholarship Fund. The chapter provides several scholarships each year to deserving high school seniors in the West Houston areas of Katy, Richmond, Cy-Fair, Brookshire and Alief who plan to pursue higher education at a two or four-year college or university.

Kincaid Joins Founders Bank
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 20, 2008

Bob Kincaid has been named senior vice president of Founders Bank, where he will focus on commercial and industrial lending.
Kincaid has more than 25 years of experience in the bank industry, including almost 10 years of experience serving mid-sized and large businesses in the Katy/West Houston area. “Bob brings an in-depth knowledge of the commercial and industrial markets in Katy and the northern portion of Fort Bend County, which we believe is underserved by locally owned and managed banks,” said Jim Sturgeon, Founders Bank president and chief executive officer.
Kincaid is an active member in the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce. He also is a member of Kingsland Baptist Church of Katy and presently serves as chair of the church’s finance committee. A graduate of Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s degree in finance, Kincaid is also certified in financial statements and cash flow analysis by the Risk Management Association and in SBA loan marketing, processing and servicing by the National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders.

Prom Dresses Donated for Children’s Centers First Prom
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 20, 2008

Dancing, beautiful dresses, tuxedos, and a night to remember is not something a neglected and abused teenager has the opportunity to experience. This night-of-dreams came true for the girls and boys at Krause Children’s Center, a residential treatment center in Katy, Texas for at-risk teenagers. On May 23, 2008, the center’s first prom allowed them to experience beauty and dignity in life. This wonderful evening of hope was made possible by the donation of over 100 prom dresses by several community organizations: Katy Christian Ministries, Katy Rotary, Breath of Life Children’s Center, Kingsland Baptist Church, Mayde Creek High School, The Silver Hanger, Travis High School Honor Society and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. For more information about Krause Children’s Center view their website at krausechildrenscenter.org.

Chamber of Commerce “Networking in Action”
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 19, 2008

The Chamber had their most recent Business Builders Breakfast at Willowfork Country Club on June 18th. Bright and early, over 70 Katy Chamber members actively participated in a lively Networking Bingo Chamber Style! Business Builders Breakfast are held the third Wednesday of the month at 6:45a.m. – 8:00a.m.

Katy Chamber has 3 Ribbon Cuttings
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 18, 2008

Dentistry by RSE 6-12-08
Melanie Phillips - Office Manager
23855 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Ste. 240
281-579-7400

Home Makeover Expo 6-13-08
Linda Chou - Principal
450 South Mason Road
281-395-8883

Home Instead Senior Care 6-17-08
11201 Richmond Ave. Suite A110, Houston
Sondra Wiedenfeld (marketing)
832-379-4700

Father’s Day Fishing Tourney a Success
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 18, 2008

This year’s Annual Cinco Ranch Father's Day Weekend Fishing Tournament was held on Saturday, June 14th at the Beach Club Lakes in Cinco Ranch. The tournament drew thirty teams with over 80 participants catching a total of 334 fish for over 2,450 cumulative inches caught!
My First Fish Certificates were presented to nine very special children in recognition of catching a fish for the very first time. Cade, Elie, Taylor, Carter, Luke, Madeline, Caroline, D-andre, and Sarah, we are all so proud of you!
Congratulations to Team Taylor-Blest for taking 1st Place by catching 376” cumulative inches of fish. 2nd Place was captured by Team Robles with their 326 ˝” total inches of fish caught. For the final Top Prize, there was a tie for catching the Largest Fish during the tournament.

Katy Resident Part of Houston Parent Television Council
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 18, 2008

The Parents Television Council™, a non-partisan education organization advocating responsible entertainment, announced Katy resident Tammy Goforth as the Associate Director of the Houston Chapter. Ms. Goforth is a professional musician and humanitarian.
An activist at heart, Ms. Goforth is working hard to combat the excessive amount of language and violence on TV, and particularly those shows that are easily accessible to children. George Hall, director of the Houston Chapter, said, “Tammy is a dedicated member with an abiding concern for the well-being of children. She is a committed activist in our community and the world; we are indeed blessed to have her join in the leadership of the Houston chapter.”
The Parents Television Council™ (www.parentstv.org®) is a non-partisan education organization advocating responsible entertainment. It was founded in 1995 to ensure that children are not constantly assaulted by sex, violence and profanity on television and in other media. This information is provided free of charge so parents can make informed viewing choices for their own families.

Country Paws Rescue Update
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 15, 2008

Country Paws Rescue ended its adoption campaign today. The shelter closed down due to loss of financial support. At the beginning of the campaign, there were 80 dogs and 60 cats in need of rescue to avoid euthanization. As of today, there are only 16 dogs and 30 cats left to be adopted out. All of the animals have been given to CAPS, Groomingdales, and foster homes and will continue to be adopted out. For more informaiton, visit http://countrypawsrescue.googlepages.com.
The shelter would like to thank all the people who have made this campaign possible. Our animals appreciate you!

Students Selected as State Outstanding Performers
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 15, 2008

Chelsea Handley and Maria Sylte, both recent 2008 graduates of Cinco Ranch, performed solos at the Texas State Solo-Ensemble Contest during Memorial weekend at UT Austin. Both earned a Division One rating at the contest, but about a week later they were also notified that they earned the highest honor awarded at the contest by being named an Outstanding Performer. Each received a gold medallion identical to those awarded to state champions in all UIL events.
Chelsea will be pursuing a music career at SMU in the Fall as an Oboe Performance major in the Oboe studio of Erin Hannigan. Maria will be attending University of Texas at Austin next year, majoring in Mechanical Engineering, and is considering a double major in Music Performance.

Troop 230’s Annual Family Campout
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 15, 2008

Scouts from Troop 230 and their families attended the annual family campout. It was held at Lake Somerville State Park and included swimming & boating. Troop 230 is chartered by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church. For more information, see the website: troop230.org.

Katy Resident is Texas Elks State Sweetheart
Katy, Texas News
Posted on June 13, 2008

Home town girl, Irma Poorman, became 'Texas Elks State Sweetheart' over the weekend. She really worked hard to raise over $82,000.00 in the Gulf Coast District. All the money goes to the Texas Elks camp for disadvantaged children.

Keller Williams Hosts Event to help Charity
Katy, Texas News
Posted on June 12, 2008

On April 21st, 2008, Keller Williams Realty Katy @ Cinco Ranch hosted their 3rd Annual Golf Classic, this year benefitting Cinco Charities®. The tournament, held at River Ridge Golf Course, boasted over 140 players, assisted by 50+ Keller Williams’ volunteers
and supported by over 40 Katy area businesses through generous donations of funds, goods and services. This year’s tournament raised over $23,000; bringing the three year total to over $75,000 to further the mission and goals of Cinco Charities®.
For more information or inquiries about the organization, please visit Cinco Charities’ website at cincocharities.org.

Ribbon Cutting for Taco Grill
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 12, 2008

A Ribbon Cutting held by Katy Area Chamber of Commerce to Welcome Taco Grill was held on 6-10-08.
Taco Grill
2004 S. Mason Rd.
281-371-8226
Tacogrillkaty.com

Alzheimer’s Gala a Success
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 10, 2008

The Cinco Ranch Ladies Club recently held its Denim and Diamond on the Ranch Charity Gala for Alzheimer's Awareness. Chair of the event Patti Pedigo and incoming President of CRLC Pamela Rapp met with The Houston Southeast Chapter of Alzheimer's Chief Executive Officer Richard Elbein to deliver the check and discuss future educational programs for the community. This year's event was very successful raising almost $18,000.00. Patti said the growth of this event over the past 3 years has been a wonderful surprise and it truly has been a pleasure to be involved in something this big for the community. We want to thank everyone involved in making this event such a success.

Round Up Program Supports YMCA After School Sites
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 6, 2008

The Fort Bend County and Katy area JC Penney stores participated in a nation-wide company initiative to support after school programs in the community with their recent “After School Round-Up”. Thanks to the 10 day initiative earlier this spring, almost $2,500 was raised from the three area JC Penneys for YMCA after school programs in Fort Bend County and Katy.
To find out more about the YMCA’s afterschool programs, go to ymcahouston.org. Or, to read more about the JC Penney’s Afterschool Fund, go to jcpenneyafterschool.org.

Mayde Creek’s 2008-2009 Varsity Cheerleaders
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 4, 2008

Kristen Lee, Hailey House, Darah May, Emmalie Kornahrens; Stephanie Phillips, Sarah Kotlar, Rachel Wickman, Tori Blanchard; Lyndsi Schmidtberger, Kathryn Crider (captain),Halli Sanchez, Kelsey Rando.

Chamber Ribbon Cutting for Texas One and Kumon
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 4, 2008

06-03-2008 Texas One Community Credit Union
Texas One Community Credit Union
Helen Dexter-Branch Manager
PO Box 41308, Houston
713-460-1661

05-29-08 Ribbon Cutting – Kumon Math & Reading Center of East Katy
Kumon Math and Reading Center of East Katy
Dana Alston - Center Instructor
918 South Fry Road Suite 300, Katy
281-599-3299

Pack 1029 Celebrates Memorial Day
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 4, 2008

Cub Scout Pack 1029 of Katy, Texas, helped place flags at the National Cemetery of Greater Houston Area for the Memorial Day Festivities.

WCE Rangers Celebrate Graduation
Katy, Texas News
Posted June 4, 2008

WoodCreek Elementary (the WCE Rangers) held a graduation ceremony for their first graduating class of 5th graders on Thursday, May 30, 2008. Immediately following school dismissal, the kids made their way to Rocket City Fun Station for their graduation party. The kids had a wonderful time. After a fun-filled summer, all are looking forward to being the first to attend WoodCreek Jr. High, opening in the fall. They selected TimberWolves for their mascot at WoodCreek Jr. High. Pictured are Allison and Erin.

Senior Signs with San Jac
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 31, 2008

Jonathan (JT) Torres, a senior at Morton Ranch High School, signed May 27 to play soccer at San Jacinto. Pictured with JT are (back row, left to right) Morton Ranch Principal Joe Cammarata, Soccer Coach Fredy Sanguinetti, Assistant Principal Rom Crespo, fellow soccer players Eddie Cordova and Julio Rivas, and Head Coach Scott Svendsen; (front row, left to right) Carrie Sanguinetti, JT, and San Jacinto Soccer Coach Dr. David Santesteban. JT is excited to play for San Jac, ranked the #1 Junior College soccer team in the nation.

4th Grader Wins First at Piano Competition
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 31, 2008

Shehla Syed, a 4th grader from Exley Elementary recently participated in two piano competitions. She competed at the VII Sonatina and Sonata International Youth Piano Competition on April 26-27, 2008 in Corpus Christi, Texas and won the first place. She received the honor to perform at the Carnegie Hall in this coming September.
She also competed at the Sherman Clay Junior Piano Festival on May 4 and received 2nd place honors. She has been enjoying music under the guidance of her piano teacher, Mrs. Anna Golka.

Taylor High Girls Participate in Classic Singer Competition
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 31, 2008

Laura Smolik (left) and Susannah Bayliss, two Taylor High School juniors, were among students chosen from nationwide auditions to compete in the 4th Annual Classical Singer High School Competition held during the Memorial Day weekend in New York City. Laura and Susannah have also been selected to become members of the 2008-2009 Houston Grand Opera High School Voice Studio. Eight Houston-area students entering their senior year are selected each April during an audition and interview process, for the year-long HGO operatic study and conservatory prep program. This is the second consecutive year Katy ISD students have been selected to participate in the studio. Laura is a student of KISD vocal instructor Jana Ellsworth. Susannah studies with KISD vocal instructor Katherine McDaniel. Both girls are under the choir direction of Kevin Riehle and Kristin Taylor.

THS Choir Banquet
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 31, 2008

Taylor High School graduating seniors Heather Camp, Liza Sharanov, Mallory Des Champs, April Board, and Sam Sarlls (left to right) celebrate during the annual THS Choir banquet at Willowfork Country Club on Friday, May 17. Each of the students received a choral department scholarship in recognition of their dedication to academics, leadership, and music.

Troop 5683 Makes a Difference at Local Park
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 31, 2008

Seven girls from Girl Scout Troop 5683 in Katy, Texas spent their Saturdays in April refurbishing parts of Hovas Park in Brookshire, Texas. Susan Elliott, Victoria Gorrell, Deidra McCall, Kayla McNeil, Dani Northcutt, Natalie Rial, and Ali Worlow re-striped two tennis courts and two basketball courts. They also added hopscotch to the sidewalks near the baseball fields. The girls were excited to be able to help the community while earning their Bronze award – the highest award attainable by Junior level Girl Scouts. The troop would like to express their appreciation to the seven area stores who donated all the paint and supplies needed for the project - we couldn’t have done it without you! The girls are pictured with Brookshire Mayor Joey Vaughn at Hovas Park.

Morton Ranch Valedictorian and Salutatorian
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 31, 2008

Morton Ranch High School valedictorian Laura Seifert and salutatorian Jamin Peterson receive their medals from Principal Joe Cammarata. Morton Ranch’s graduation ceremony is Sunday, June 1, at the Katy ISD Merrill Center.

Maverick Belles 2008-2009 Officers
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 31, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Maverick Belles proudly announce their 2008-2009 Military Officers. Junior Lieutenant KayKay Brock, Junior Lieutenant Melissa Harris, Senior Lieutenant Christina Janczak, Colonel Maria Tafur, Lieutenant Colonel Larhannah Robinson, and Junior Lieutenant Courtney Kincaid.

Pack 548 Celebrates Another Great Year
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 31, 2008

On May 16th, Cub Scout Pack 548 of Katy celebrated another great year. The scouts received their awards and were promoted to the next rank. Pins were given from the boys to their parents as a thank you for their contributions to scouting. Additional awards were given to certain parent volunteers for serving various roles for the Pack.
If you are interested in signing up for Pack 548, look for information in September for fall sign-ups. There will be a sign-up table at Kilpatrick Elementary on Scout Night.

Troop 230 Bids Farewell to Soaring Eagles
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 30, 2008

Troop 230 of Katy recently honored its graduating seniors at their spring Court of Honor. All 14 young men are graduating from Katy ISD high schools and have earned the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouting's highest rank. Additionally all 14 are all attending college in the fall and many have been awarded academic scholarships as well. Pictured from left to right are: Eric Schettek, Andrew Carlberg, Daniel Nemec, Ben Heppard, Matt LeGros, Drew Roberts, Robert McMordie, Michael Staines, Chris Ventura and Scoutmaster of T230, Charles Messina. Not pictured: Will Cooke, Daniel Fahey, Tyler Haney, Nathan Hill and Steven Jin Troop 230 is chartered by St. Peter's United Methodist Church in Katy. For more information see their website at troop230.org

PTO Awards Senior Scholarships
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 30, 2008

The Friends of Katy High School PTO is pleased to congratulate the recipients of the Senior Scholarship and to wish them the best in all of their future endeavors. Amanda Fait, Lucy Crane, Kori Aiken, Elizabeth Strange, Michael Fielding, Tommy Domingue, Juan Gonzales, Stephen Blanchard.

Providence Place Apartments Ribbon Cutting
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 30, 2008

Ribbon Cutting – Providence Place Apartments (Katy Area Chamber of Commerce)>

National Charity League’s Newest Members
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

The Katy Chapter of National Charity League, Inc. welcomed its newest group of young ladies, the class of 2014, at the Mother Daughter Tea held at Crosspoint Church in Katy.

Local Girl Scout Earns Girl Scout Award
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Local Girl Scout Saakshi Chowdhary traveled to India to educate girls living in an orphanage about good hygiene habits and also shared her culture with local senior citizens, while completing all the requirements to receive the Girl Scout of San Jacinto Council Gold Award, the highest award a Girl Scout can achieve. Less than five percent of girls who join Girl Scouts earn this recognition. It takes two to three years of intensive work to complete the award requirements, which include planning and completing a project that is a service to the community.

State PSIA Scholastic Competition
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

West Houston Charter School's regional winners attended the State PSIA scholastic competition on May 3, 2008 in Ft. Worth, TX. The state winners are:
Ayinde Hall - 1st Place for On-Site Drawing, Landon Campbell - 6th Place for Listening, Emily Gex - 1st Place in Ready Writing, Ashley Tackett - 6th Place in Ready Writing, Mason Johnston - 5th Place in Poetry, and Reina Misra - 3rd Place in Science.

2008 District Teachers of the Year
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Kimberly Middleton of Exley Elementary was selected as the 2008 Katy ISD Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Rhonda Williams of Katy High School was chosen as the 2008 Katy ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year.

Middleton teaches 21 kindergarten students at Exley Elementary, however, she would tell you that each day 21 parents send her the child they love. Her daily goals as a teacher include building a sense of community in her classroom, not wasting a moment of instruction time and making learning fun yet challenging. Kimberly Middleton, Katy ISD Elementary Teacher of the Year, with Exley Elementary Principal Elizabeth Kuylen(left) and Alton Frailey(right), Superintendent of Schools.

Rhonda Williams teaches Health Science Technology to Katy High School students from grades eight through 12, sponsors the Health Occupation Students of America, coordinates the campus bi-annual blood drive and writes curriculum in collaboration with the Katy ISD career and technical education department along with being a member of the Association of Texas Professional Educators. Williams’ previous career was spent as a registered nurse even though she has always loved the teaching opportunities in her life.
Rhonda Williams, Katy ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year, with Katy High School Principal Joe Kelley(right), and Alton Frailey(left), Superintendent of Schools.

Students Win Slam Dunk Storybook Challenge
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Amy Gonzalez’s third grade class at Golbow Elementary School won the Slam Dunk Storybook Challenge sponsored by the Houston Rockets and H-E-B. This is the fourth year in a row that her class has written the winning story for the contest that is designed to promote reading as part of the NBA Read to Achieve initiative. Clutch, the Houston Rockets mascot and H-E-Buddy, the H-E-B mascot, came to visit Golbow Elementary for a school assembly to recognize the students for their winning entry. The Houston Rockets also presented Golbow Principal Terri Majors and the school with a basketball signed by all the Rockets players.

2008 Outstanding First-Year Teachers
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Brenda Pérez, a second grade teacher at Fielder Elementary, and Deanna Nomey, a ninth grade English teacher at Morton Ranch High School, have been selected as Katy ISD’s 2008 Outstanding First-Year Teachers. Pérez and Nomey, selected out of a group of 12 finalists, were honored at a school board meeting and reception in April, along with Katy ISD’s campus Teachers of the Year.

Pérez is known for moving a hundred miles a minute, pushing and exhorting her students to challenge themselves. She teaches a self-contained second grade bilingual class, and works extra hard to accommodate all levels of learners in her class. She believes that as a teacher, it is her role to facilitate meaningful experiences that promote learning at any developmental stage in a child’s life. Her academic motivation has proven successful with her students, however, her biggest reward in teaching this year has been found in providing a safe and secure environment for the children in her classroom. Brenda Pérez, 2008 Elementary Outstanding First-Year Teacher, with Fielder Elementary Principal Mark Vigario(left) and Alton Frailey(right), Superintendent of Schools.

Deanna Nomey has spent the first year of her education career teaching English to approximately 125 tenth grade students at Morton Ranch High School. She is known for teaching outside of the box in order to bring the material to life in her classroom.
Nomey is already emerging as a leader in the Morton Ranch community and has infected the campus with her enthusiasm. Providing many fresh ideas to her department, she focuses her efforts on making learning applicable and fun for her students through the creation of an entire unit centered around a new book as well as her extensive philosophy on re-teaching. Deanna Nomey, 2008 Secondary Outstanding First-Year Teacher, with Morton Ranch High School Principal, Joe Cammarata(right), and Alton Frailey(left), Superintendent of Schools.

WMJH Students Win Citizenship Award
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

West Memorial Junior High students were awarded the national 2008 Kids Care Club Citizenship Award for their community service with the “Be an Angel” playground project.
Calling themselves the J-Unit, WMJH students, faculty, and staff have participated in three fundraisers for the playground. They walked in Carrie’s Heart “Walk ‘n Roll,” attended the BBQ Fundraiser at the VFW park, and held a spare-change drive at the school to purchase bricks for the walkway leading up to the playground.
The Kids Care Clubs international organization exists to encourage children to get involved in their local communities and consists of 1,400 volunteer clubs and about 75,000 children volunteers. The club at WMJH was founded in January 2008 and has already completed several projects. The “Be an Angel” playground project is building a barrier-free playground that will allow children who have physical disabilities to play alongside their peers.

Summer Work Hours, New Student Registration Dates
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

From June 2 to July 31, Katy ISD’s central office and all school campuses will be open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. All District offices will be closed on July 4 in observance of Independence Day and regular work hours will be worked June 30 to July 4, due to the July fourth holiday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
For assistance on Fridays, parents can contact the Katy ISD Education Support Complex at 281-396-6000.
The first day of school for the fall 2008 semester for all grades is Monday, August 25, 2008, and parents of new students entering Katy ISD for the first time are asked to register their students prior to the beginning of classes. Registration requirements and dates can be found at katyisd.org.

KISD Semi-Finalist for 2008 H-E-B Award
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Eric Duhon, Katy ISD Board of Trustees president, presents a certificate to Superintendent Alton Frailey in recognition of Katy ISD’s selection as a semi-finalist for the 2008 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. Only 24 districts in Texas were selected as semi-finalists. H-E-B also donated $1,000 in gift cards for this recognition.

Student is National Scholastic Gold Art Winner
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Michelle Mendoza, an eighth grade student at McDonald Junior High, was selected as a National Scholastic Gold Art winner for her mixed media artwork, “figure study in mixed media,” created in Erin Forbes’ art class. Mendoza will be honored at a national award ceremony is in New York City at Carnegie Hall on June 5.

Student is Regional Winner for Art Contest
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Rose Miao, fifth grade student at Pattison Elementary, was selected as a regional winner for a national Google art contest, designed in Valeria Maggitti’s art class. Her drawing of the word “Google,” represents one of 40 national finalists from the Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Miao titled her artwork “What a Wonderful World” in response to the prompt, “What if?” that contestants were given to inspire creative drawings. The description of her drawing reads, “What if I can fly through the peaceful gardens freely like a butterfly? What if I could swim in the blue ocean like a beautiful mermaid? Google is like a rainbow that can take me wherever I want to go. I wish for world peace and a healthy environment. She has a chance to win a $10,000 college scholarship and a $25,000 technology grant for Pattison. Miao will be recognized at the “Googleplex” in Mountain View, CA, where the final winners will be announced.

Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cuttings
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Katy Commerce Center (Lanstar)
1173 Westborough Drive, Suite 110

University of Houston SBDC of Fort Bend County
1173 Westborough Drive, Suite 226

Troop 230 Honors Veterans
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Scouts and adults of Boy Scouts Troop 230 recently helped dig holes and post 300 USA flags in honor of our of American veterans at Pine Forest Country Club. PFCC hosts a charity golf tournament for disabled veterans each year. Troop 230 has provided the flags and the installation for this annual event for the past several years. BSA Troop 230 is chartered by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church. For more information, please see the website: troop230.org

Church Serves in Garden Villas Area of Houston
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church will be part of a group serving in the Garden Villas Area of Houston, through U.M. ARMY, the week of June 8 – 14th . U.M. ARMY is “Action Reach-out Ministry by Youth and is a 30 year old organization that helps people in need of home repair. The teams include teens, young adults, and adults. Work that is done includes construction of wheelchair ramps, porches, floors, doors and window repair, construction of handrails and steps. There will be over 30 camps for U.M. ARMY this summer in East and Southeast Texas. For more information please contact Sandra Roberson at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church at 281-492-8031.

Johnson Wins Texas State Championship Duck Calling Contest
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

Newell Cheatheam, President of Newell’s Designs and contest calling chairman for the Texas State for the past 8 years, announces that Clint Parker Johnson of Ravenna, Texas using an Echo duck call won the Texas State Championship Sanctioned Duck Calling Contest held at Jewett, Texas on May 17, 2008. Johnson won $1000 cash and a stone trophy. Johnson has never entered a calling contest and won the contest by 5 points over Andy Barnett of Centerville, Texas.

Regis Wins Grant from BP
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

The Regis School of the Sacred Heart received a $10,000 sustainability grant from BP to further their existing recycling project. This grant will allow Regis to expand its recycling efforts on campus and in its surrounding neighborhood. Monica Gutierrez, middle school science teacher, will lead the project for the second consecutive year and will partner with Rice University to further educate the boys at Regis about conservation and recycling. As part of Regis’ ongoing commitment to recycling in the community, the boys will volunteer with a City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department recycling service center.

White Sox Little League Team Wins
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 25, 2008

On Friday night, May 23rd, the White Sox prevailed over the Yankees to win the Spring 2008 Minor League Championship in the Katy American Little League (KALL). It was a close contest and lasted 7 innings. The names of the White Sox players are as follows-
Front Row Kneeling (from left to right): Patrik Elsasser, Matthew Moore, Jonathan Prewitt, Christian Contreras, Andrew Garcia, and Ryan Moreno; Back Row Standing (from left to right): Blake Smith, Brandon Braswell, Spencer Knudsen, Joshua Dowell, Connor Villarreal, and Ravi Shekhar. Coaches in the Back Row (L to R): Coach Prewitt, Coach Moreno, Head Coach Jimmy Garcia, and Coach Smith. We are very proud of our boys!

Real Estate Professionals Awards 2008
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 22, 2008

Each year the Houston Business Journal, joined by Chicago Title and Perry Homes gather to honor the top residential real estate professional in the greater Houston area. Since 1996 they have tracked the production of all 27,000 Realtors in this huge geographical MLS area, which goes from Clear Lake, the Woodlands, Katy, Sugar Land, and surrounding areas. This includes all Real Estate companies and the Top 25 agents are ranked by Number of Closed Transactions in 2007 and the Top 25 agents are also ranked for Gross Dollar Volume of Closed Sales. Liz Carter has ranked in the Top 25 for both categories every year since 1996. This year they were honored with a breakfast awards at one of the most beautiful places in Houston, the River Oaks Country Club. You can reach this award winning team at their web site lizcarter.com.

Pedaling the Prairie
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 22, 2008

Nearly 600 riders participated in the second annual Pedaling the Prairie, a non-competitive bike ride, held Saturday, May 17, 2008. Bicycle enthusiasts (along with some rollerbladers) took to a well mapped course ranging from family friendly 10-15 mile rides to the 100-mile endurance ride. Mr. Dag Blokkum, Ride Marshall, announced to the riders this morning; “Unfortunately I have some bad news. What was previously advertised as a one hundred mile course, because of construction, it is now a 127 mile ride.” This announcement was meant with cheers from the enthusiastic riders and they were ready for a wonderful ride day with temperate that ranged from 59° to 69°. The ride began at Katy Mills Mall Sun & Ski parking lot and took different routes around the Katy, Fulshear, Simonton, San Felipe, and Bellville areas. The ride provided an experience of the prairie, rolling meadows, some hills, and rural flatland of the area.
Pedaling the Prairie is presented by Sun & Ski Sports to benefit the athletic department of Faith West Academy. Faith West Academy is a private, Christian school in Katy, Texas.

Troop 557 Participated in Texas Skies Service Weekend
Katy, Texas News
Posted May 22, 2008

Boy Scout Troop 557 participated in the Texas Skies Service Weekend at Camp Brosig. The scouts had the pleasure of experiencing an "Extreme Latrine Makeover". The scouts present were Nick Christoffersen, Tony Steinbrecher, Trevor Gutierrez, Trevor Tice, Carlos Chavez, Jake Brown, Andrew Jordan and Christopher & David Winski.

Give it the Throttle! Bank Left!
Katy Texas News – Posted May 19, 2008

It was flying time at Spanish Meadows during last week’s observance of Armed Forces Day. A contingent of VFW members staged a program for residents of the Katy nursing home; and during a get-acquainted cookie and punch session Spanish Meadows resident Chokes R. Ursell, left, found he had a connection with VFW member Bill Barry. Ursell flew B-25’s in WW2 and later was a pilot for Pan American Airways for 29 years until his retirement, while Barry sold oilfield service equipment in Central and South America after he left the service in 1946. “It didn’t take us long to figure out that during my travels in and out of cities in Brazil, Venezuela, and Columbia, Charles was probably in the pilot’s seat,”

Luxury Senior Living Community in Cinco Ranch
Katy Texas News – Posted May 19, 2008
Formation Development Group announces the ground breaking of The Sienna at Cinco Ranch, a luxury senior living community in the heart of Cinco Ranch. When complete in the third quarter of 2009, the project will feature concierge services, multiple dining venues, a wine bar, and a terrace club activities room, among others. The development of The Sienna at Cinco Ranch marks the first time that independent living for seniors, along with assisted living, is being provided in the fast-growing master planned community in West Houston. The Sienna at Cinco Ranch will be located at 24001 Cinco Village Center Boulevard in Katy, Texas, next to LaCenterra, Cinco Ranch’s Main Street-styled center of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. It will offer 126 independent living and 32 assisted living rental apartments.
For more leasing information or other details, call (281) 395-9600 or visit SiennaCincoRanch.com.

KVPAC Art Academy Pilot Year a Success
Katy Texas News – Posted May 19, 2008
The Katy Visual & Performing Arts Center' Art Academy is wrapping up its successful pilot year. They culminate the semester with a Gallery Event, when all class-produced artwork is proudly exhibited. This end-of-year event is scheduled for Thursday, May 29 at 6pm. Visit kvpac.org for more info.

Faith West High’s Class of 2008 Prom
Katy Texas News – Posted May 19, 2008

The Class of 2008 boys wore tuxedos, and the girls were adorned in beautiful formal dresses, with corsages on their wrists, made a special end of a school year celebration. More than 70 Faith West High School students danced the night away May 10 during the annual FWA Junior-Senior Prom held at Always and Forever ballroom under the theme, “Midnight Masquerade.”

Scouts Honor Earth Day Through Conservation Award
Katy Texas News – Posted May 19, 2008

Boy Scouts from Troop 584, chartered by the Fellow-ship of Cinco Ranch, spent Earth Day Weekend working toward Scouting’s highest conservation award, the Hornaday Award, at Lost Pines Scout Camp in Bastrop, on the LCRA Lost Pines Scout Reservation. The Scout in attendance was Hatim Sulemanji.
To earn the award, the Scout must demonstrate his knowledge of natural resource protection and management and carry out a project that puts that knowledge into practice. He must consult with a conservation professional to identify the best conservation practices for each proposed project, ensure the project will continue into the future, provide an educational component, and achieve public awareness of the project through media coverage.

Bear Den Pack 239 Earns Webelo 1 Rank
Katy Texas News – Posted May 19, 2008

Congratulations to the Bear Den of Pack 239 at Memorial Parkway Elementary. The boys and their families recently participated in graduation ceremonies at Bear Creek Park after completing all the requirements to earn the rank of Webelo 1. Pictured from left to right are Jaerod Washmon, Dylan Leong, Michael Meneghetti, Dalton Meredith, Paulo Leal, Christian Larsen as well as den leader James Meredith.

Troop 230 has Mother’s Day Cook-off
Katy Texas News – Posted May 19, 2008

Troop 230 recently had a Mother’s Day cook-off at their scout house. New scouts were able to make a meal for their moms and get some of their scout cooking requirements signed off for rank advancement. Older scouts served as the judges for categories such as presentation and creativity. Troop 230 is chartered by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church. For more information about Troop 230 please log on to their website: troop230.org.

Mother of the Year Recipient
Katy Texas News – Posted May 18, 2008
Cynthia Cherry attended the Katy Christian Women’s Connection luncheon in May. Cynthia was the winner of the “Mother of the Year” contest held by the Katy Christian Women’s Connection and received a gift certificate to a local spa.

Faith West Academy Announces 2008 Valedictorian and Salutatorian
Katy Texas News – Posted May 16, 2008

Sarah Renee Sturm andGregory Sean Sanders were named valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, by Dr. Raúl Hinojosa, headmaster of Faith West Academy High School.

The valedictorian, Sarah, excelled in the classroom where she took Advanced Placement and Honors courses, had a four year GPA of 4.58, and participated in numerous extracurricular activities. During her senior year, Sarah served as class president, National Honor Society president, and a member of Mu Alpha Theta. She has participated in the debate club, served on four international mission trips, is a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, team member of basketball, volleyball, and softball during her high school career. She was team captain for softball all four years and a key player for the 2006 State Softball Team and was First Team All State-Softball for three years. Sarah over $115,000 in scholarship offers.

The salutatorian, Sean, was enrolled in Advanced Placement and Honors classes during his high school career and achieved an overall GPA of 4.54. He has won many journalism awards for his work in the school newspapers and yearbooks. He was a debate club participant, a member of the National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta.
Sean has received recognition at the state level in Academic contests under the direction of the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools. He was the recipient of awards in a recent school assembly: Journalism, Economics PAP, and Bible. He received a $40,000 scholarship to Baylor University.

Both Sarah and Sean exemplify the character and achieved the academic requirements that define them as outstanding 2008 graduating seniors of Faith West Academy in Katy, Texas.

Texas Children’s Hospital Breaks Ground Near Katy

First community children’s hospital in the greater Houston area will be among nation’s largest
Katy Texas News – Posted May 15, 2008
Texas Children’s Hospital broke ground today on 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 one of its fastest growing child populations.
Located on 55 acres at the intersection of Interstate 10 and Barker Cypress near Katy, 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 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 room in greater West Houston. The medical complex, totaling 490,000 square feet, will be built in phases at an estimated cost of $220 million. With the completion of the outpatient clinic building and the inpatient facility in 2010, West Campus will have an estimated workforce of 600-800 medical professionals and support staff.

“Our new West Campus will provide families greater access to the same unsurpassed standard of care for which Texas Children’s Hospital is internationally recognized,” said Mark Wallace, president and chief executive officer of Texas Children’s Hospital. “As part of our Vision 2010 initiative, West Campus will serve as a premier pediatric treatment facility and as a leading community resource center for child wellness and healing.”

Phase I of the West Campus construction is scheduled for completion in spring/summer 2010 and features a 190,000-square-foot outpatient clinic building with physician offices. The facility will offer 15 pediatric specialty services including audiology, cardiology, endocrine/diabetes, gastroenterology, hematology/oncology, neurology, occupational therapy, ophthalmology, orthopedic surgery, otolaryngology, pediatric surgery, physical therapy, pulmonary medicine, speech therapy services and urology.

Texas Children’s Hospital is among the largest pediatric hospitals in the country and is dedicated to serving children and families through excellence in patient care, education and research. The hospital’s new West Campus development is made possible in large part through the generous support of corporations and families in the local community who are committed to improving the health and well-being of its children.

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital Helps Troops Stay Fit
Katy, Texas News – Posted May 15, 2008
A mobile army surgical hospital (MASH) unit now has the equipment it needs to help its troops stay healthy and fit. In a fundraiser led by the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Memorial Hermann Katy physicians and staff raised more than $1,600 to purchase and ship exercise equipment, including jump ropes, dumbbells, mats, resistance bands and more, to a MASH unit in Iraq.

Cinco Ranch High School Choirs Shine During Contest Season
Katy Texas News – Posted May 12, 2008

Congratulations to Cinco Ranch High School’s Choirs for their outstanding performances at UIL’s Concert and Sight Reading Contest and the Gulf Coast Classic! Four choirs participated in UIL. Sweepstakes trophies were awarded to Chorale, Cantiamo, and JV Mixed Choir for their straight “Superior” ratings. Bel Canto received “Excellent” ratings.
Three choirs also performed in the Gulf Coast Classic. Chorale received “Superior” ratings, “Best in Class,” and “Most Outstanding Choir.” Cantiamo also earned Superior ratings and “Best in Class.” JV Mixed Choir received “Excellent” ratings.

Dorothy Wilson, director of the Choirs, said, “The students this year are very talented and have worked hard. I’m delighted at this wonderful recognition for their efforts.”
Next on the Choir’s calendar is the annual spring Pop Show on Friday, May 16, at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Cinco Ranch High School, located at 23440 Cinco Ranch Boulevard.

The Disney-themed show, which will feature group and solo performances, is open to the public, and admission is free. Under the direction of Dorothy Wilson and Eric West, the Cinco Ranch High School Choir program is 220-members strong and includes men’s, women’s, and mixed choirs for beginning to advanced singers.

Firethorne Youth Trains for National Junior Cycling Championships
Katy Texas News – Posted May 9, 2008
13-year-old Firethorne resident Madeleine McDuff is training for her first-ever national junior cycling competition this summer. The seventh grader, founder and president of the Beckendorff Junior High School Cycling Club, practices three to four times a week for up to 50 miles. She works with her trainer, former National Cycling Champion and U.S. Team Member Garth Blackburn (of Sugar Land), rides with the Katy-based Team Spincycle, an adult team that pedals 30 miles every Sunday morning, and cross-trains during the off-season at Firethorne to gear up for the USA Cycling Junior National Track Championships this August at the ADT Event Center in Carson, CA.
The Katy native was introduced to cycling at age 9 by her godfather. Then, at the beginning of the 2007-08 school year, Madeleine had the idea to start a cycling club at her junior high school. Not only did she recruit history teacher Rainey Richardson as the sponsor, but she recruited Richardson’s two daughters, Ragan and Kate, to join as well.
While the Team Beckendorff Cycling Club works out at the Alkek Velodrome during racing season, the members needed a place to cross train during the off-season. She contacted Firethorne General Manager Wayne Meyer about using an area near the lacrosse field in her neighborhood for team exercises on Tuesday evenings.
Madeleine, who proudly boasts a U.S.A. cycling license, turned 13 last month. She will compete in the 13-14 year age group at the junior nationals on her Atherton bike, proudly wearing her jersey emblazoned with the Team Spincycle logo. Her ultimate goal: to train for the Olympics.

Zach Keal Signs Letter of Intent
Katy Texas News – Posted May 8, 2008

Morton Ranch High School senior Zach Keal signed a letter of intent to play basketball at Temple University next year. With Zach were Morton Ranch Principal Joe Cammarata, Coach Kirby Johnson, Assistant Principal Romulo Crespo, Zach’s grandmother Carol Keal, Coach Carey Palmer, Coach Scott Svendsen, and Zach’s parents Amy and Charles Keal. Congratulations Zach!

Mayde Creek High School Sadly Says Goodbye to Their Senior Cheerleaders
Katy Texas News – Posted May 8, 2008

We will miss our Cheerleaders! Senior manager Rachel Strobel, senior Krysti Rodriguez, senior captian Julie Bedford, senior Sarah Strait, senior Lauren Leal, junior Lyndsi Schmidtberger, junior Kelsey Rando, junior Kathryn Crider, senior Graciely Reichen, senior Melody Wilson, senior Hannah Ives, senior Kelsey Bolt, and senior Paige Sherman.

Michael Griffin Elementary Presents Donation to Bonnie Holland Elementary
Katy Texas News – Posted May 8, 2008

Michael Griffin Elementary Principal Jacki Keithan presented a generous donation to Bonnie Holland Elementary Principal Carra Fleming and newly elected Holland Elementary PTA President Tena Wood. Mrs. Keithan presented the gift on behalf of the Griffin Elementary PTA. WoodCreek Elementary PTA President Beth Toot and WoodCreek Elementary student Zachary Toot also presented Mrs. Fleming with a donation on behalf of the WoodCreek Elementary PTA. Holland Elementary will open its doors for its inaugural school year in August, 2008. The donations will be used for educational resources for the students of Holland Elementary, such as Science Lab materials, Math manipulates, Library funding and other needs.

Scouts Spend the Night on the USS Lexington
Katy Texas News – Posted May 6, 2008
Several Cub Scouts from Pack 925, Boy Scouts from Troop 925 and Girl Scouts from Troop 5512 spent the night aboard the USS Lexington. The boys and girls enjoyed a full day of exploring the ship from top to bottom, listening to ghost stories, and living aboard the ship like a sailor on a WWII aircraft carrier.

MRHS FBLA Attends Future Business Leaders of America Conference
Katy Texas News – Posted May 5, 2008

On April 11th the Morton Ranch High School FBLA attended the Future Business Leaders of America State Leadership Conference held in Houston at the Wyndham Greenspoint Hotel. A total of 12 students along with their advisors, Mitzi Poole and Erin Segreto, participated in the conference with several students receiving awards and honors.
Among the recognized was the Business Plan team composed of Arsalan Nasir and Amy Sesar who placed 1st out of competing teams from high schools across the state. Raquel Phillips Lester placed 2nd overall in the Marketing competition as well as bringing home a 4th place ribbon for the Business Etiquette competition. These students are now qualified to compete in the national competition to be held in Atlanta, Georgia this summer. This will be the first trip to the national competition for Morton Ranch FBLA.
Also taking home honors is Ryan Hunt who placed 4th in the Public Speaking II competition. Ryan also received the Who’s Who among Texas FBLA award.
As a chapter, Morton Ranch FBLA received the awards for Highest Percent Contribution and Largest Overall Donation to the March of Dimes with their donation of $1,000. The chapter also received the awards for Highest Percent Contribution and Largest Overall Contribution to the FBLA Scholarship Endowment Fund with their contribution of $500.

RJ Robinson Receives Eagle Award
Katy Texas News – Posted May 5, 2008

RJ Robinson of Boy Scout Troop 925 received his Eagle award on April 26, 2008.
“It has been a long and hard, but wonderful road. I have mastered my goal. With deep humility I now stand as a representative of the best scouting can accomplish in the lives of boys. May I now pass on to my younger brothers a portion of my knowledge. Once an Eagle…always an Eagle,” says Robinson.
Troop 925 would like to say GREAT JOB to RJ Robinson.

MRHS Class of ’08 is First to Attend Four Years
Katy Texas News – Posted May 2, 2008

The senior class of Morton Ranch High School are the first to attend the school for all four years from start to finish. They will celebrate at their upcoming graduation ceremony on June 1st.

THS Represented at Golf Tournament
Katy Texas News – Posted May 1, 2008

Students from Taylor High School represented the school at the Region III Class 5A golf tournament held at Eagle Point Golf Course. The girls were Valerie House, Stephanie Straight, Bailey Searcy, Sarah Blair, Briana Herrmann and Catherine Andrews. The girls’ team is coached by Jack Soliman and Cindy Lloyd. The boys were Blake Turner, Kevin Vanden Heuvel, Mikie Veillette, Eric Redeker, Kevin Cho and Alex MacKay. The boys’ team is also coached by Cindy Lloyd.

Living Word Youth Color Quilts
Katy Texas News – Posted April 29, 2008

Children from Living World’s Junior Youth for Christ class recently colored squares that made up the Linus quilts for children at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. The quilts were sewn by Living Word members Linda Turner and Kay Woods. They were on display at the church on April 20th before being delivered to the hospital.

Bandits are World Series Bound
Katy Texas News – Posted April 29, 2008
The Katy Bandits U10 select baseball team won first place in the BCS Classic II Baseball Tournament held April 25 – 27th in College Station. The Bandits fought hard Saturday and Sunday to beat out fourteen other nationally ranked baseball teams to take the title. The team will now advance to the USSA World Series in Lake Charles, LA this July. Go Bandits!

City of Katy Presents an Award to Greater Katy Exchange Club
Katy Texas News – Posted April 29, 2008

Mayor Don Elder presented the Greater Katy Exchange Club a Proclamation Award of “Americanism” for their community service project Give-A-Kid-A-Flag-To-Wave in passing out over 2500 small flags during the KISD Rodeo Parade.
Exchange, America’s Service Club is a group of men and women working together to make our communities better places to live through programs of service in Americanism, Community Service, Youth Activities, and its national project, the Prevention of Child Abuse. The organization’s goal is to ignite the sprit of community service throughout the nation.
For more information about Exchange Club or reservations, Contact Newell Cheatheam at 281.392.3034 or visit www.katyexchangeclub.com.

Searle Wins Derby Championship
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008
On Saturday, April 12, John Searle won 1st place overall in the 2008 Texas Skies District Pinewood Derby. The 2008 derby was held at Cinco Ranch High School where over 120 Cub Scouts had qualified to participate in the race. Each participant in the derby had either won first, second or third place in a previous race in their own Cub Scout Pack to qualify for this race. Searle was representing Pack #239.
John Searle is a Cub Scout Wolf and calls his championship Pinewood Derby car "The Fluke." John, age 7, is the son of Kameron and Marisa Searle.
The Texas Skies District is the newest district in the Boy Scouts of America Sam Houston Area Council and comprises all of Katy ISD and Royal ISD. John's victory is the first ever in Texas Skies District Pinewood Derby history. Each year more than a million boys team up with their parents to build and race cars in local competitions held all over the United States.

Katy Scout Earns Eagle Award
Katy Texas News – Posted on April 28, 2008
Clinton Spradley recently earned the Eagle Scout Award, the highest advancement rank in Scouting. Clinton has been a member of Boy Scouts of America for 12 years and fulfilled requirements in the areas of leadership, service, and outdoor skills. For his Eagle Scout Project, Clinton planned and implemented a service project that benefited the Mayde Creek High School Color Guard. The project provided him with an opportunity to improve his leadership, project management, and construction skills. Clinton is a member of Troop 590 chartered by New Hope Presbyterian Church in Katy.

Roosevelt Alexander Elementary Celebrates 10 Years of Academic Success
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008

Roosevelt Alexander Elementary School celebrated its 10th year of academic success at a school-wide celebration on Friday, April 18, with Roosevelt Alexander himself as a special guest in the school gymnasium. Congratulations RAES!

Katy ISD Teacher Named Houston Area Bilingual Teacher of the Year
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008

Memorial Parkway Elementary pre-K students have been known to come out of Teresa Gomez’s class with the same skill-set that Kindergarten students usually have. The advanced material that her students learn, among many other reasons has earned Gomez the title of 2008 Katy ISD Bilingual Teacher of the Year in addition to the Houston Area Association of Bilingual Education's 2008 Houston-area Teacher of the Year.
Gomez is celebrated for establishing an educational environment that is both productive and nurturing. According to her principal, Olga Leonard, “Teresa displays a sincere love and dedication to each and every one of her students. These qualities that she exudes so freely come from within, and not from a book or an education course.”
Gomez was chosen among countless other bilingual teachers throughout surrounding districts and will move on to compete at the state level with the Texas Association for Bilingual Education.

Katy ISD Curriculum Specialist Elected President of State Organization
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008

Janet Charpiot, Katy ISD language arts curriculum specialist, was recently named president of the Coalition of Reading and English Supervisors of Texas (CREST). The mission of CREST is to promote literacy through reading, writing, listening, speaking and viewing so that all students in the state of Texas experience literacy success.
During her tenure, Charpiot will work with the state’s transition in implementing new language arts Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) as well as the upcoming state textbook adoptions.
“During my two years as president, I hope to provide a literary 'tour guide' of best practices and ways to build success with whatever our state board of education adopts in May,” said Charpiot, language arts curriculum specialist. “Hopefully, we will have a well-written, thoroughly research-based, and highly readable document (TEKS) that will develop students to be lifelong learners.”

Katy ISD Theatre Students Take Home Honors in UIL Regional Competition
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008

High school theatre students only had one act to steal the hearts of the audience members and judges at the recent UIL One-Act Play competitions. Nineteen students from each Morton Ranch and Cinco Ranch did just that as they brought their respective plays to life and advanced to the regional competition after bringing home several top district awards.
Morton Ranch was honored for performing “A View from the Bridge” at the regional competition.
Cinco Ranch also gave an outstanding performance of “The Beggar’s Opera” at the regional competition.
UIL music competitions also take place in the spring for all junior high and high school bands, choirs, and orchestras. During this year’s region UIL contests, Katy ISD will have about 130 different music ensembles in UIL concert and sight reading competitions.

Katy ISD Announces Tommy Tune Award Winners
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008

Bob Bryant, executive director of fine arts, describes the Tommy Tune Awards as the high school version of the Tony’s for Broadway musicals. “Just receiving a nomination is a huge honor,” said Bryant.

Three Katy ISD high schools received Tommy Tune nominations in various categories for their musical productions this year. The nominees include: Katy High School received five nominations for The Sound of Music, Morton Ranch High School received nine nominations for Damn Yankees and Cinco Ranch High School received 14 nominations for Jekyll and Hyde.

A team of 31 Houston-based theatre professionals made nominations in 15 categories after reviewing and evaluating 41 participating Houston-area high school productions during the 2007-08 school year. The winners were announced at the awards show on April 22 at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts with Katy ISD schools bringing home seven big awards.

Cinco Ranch High School brought a grand total of six Tommy Tune’s including the best feature performer, junior Leighton Schlanger for his role as Spider in Jekyll and Hyde. Cinco Ranch’s rendition of Jekyll and Hyde was also selected for best set design, which was done by senior Alex McGowen, best lighting design by senior Gustavo Valdes, best costume design by senior Jordan Martin, sophomore Anna Blaha and freshman Kalie Brumbaugh. Under the guidance of Kathy Gallas-Beyer, Cinco Ranch theatre director and Steve Brown, assistant director, the overall musical production won the Tommy Tune for best musical direction and best technical execution.

In addition, Katy High School senior Grace Glass won the best supporting actress Tommy Tune Award for her role as Mother Abbess in The Sound of Music.

The awards are named in honor of Tommy Tune, a graduate of Lamar High School in Houston, who is a nine-time winner of the Tony Award, Broadway's highest honor for outstanding work.

City of Katy to Present an Award to Greater Katy Exchange Club
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008

Tonight, Mayor Don Elder will present the Greater Katy Exchange Club a Proclamation Award of “Americanism” for their community service project Give-A-Kid-A-Flag-To-Wave in passing out over 2500 small flags during the KISD Rodeo Parade.
Crime Prevention Officer Jeron Barnett was honored on April 19th as the 2008 “Law Enforcement Officer of the Year” from the City of Katy at the Texas -Louisiana Gulf Coast District Exchange Club 43rd Crime Prevention Dinner at the Westin Galleria, Houston, TX. The Greater Katy Exchange Club sponsored the officer of the year from Katy. Barnett will receive an award from the City of Katy also. Officer Barnett is running for Waller County Sheriff.
Exchange, America’s Service Club is a group of men and women working together to make our communities better places to live through programs of service in Americanism, Community Service, Youth Activities, and its national project, the Prevention of Child Abuse. The organization’s goal is to ignite the sprit of community service throughout the nation.
For more information about Exchange Club or reservations, Contact Newell Cheatheam at 281.392.3034 or visit www.katyexchangeclub.com.

THS Alumni Perform with Baylor’s ShowTime!
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008

Baylor University Juniors Christopher Dunn (left) and Ryan Young (right) of Katy recently performed in the School of Music’s “It’s ShowTime!” spring program, April 4 and 5 at the Hooper-Schaefer Fine Arts Center in Waco, Texas. The revue-style ensemble features favorites from the American musical theater, Broadway, Hollywood and contemporary hits. Both Dunn and Young auditioned for ShowTime! as freshmen in 2005 and have since performed continuously with them. The group has traveled and performed extensively throughout Texas and in Austria and Hawaii. The next engagement will take place in May at the Baylor Alumni Meeting in Washington, D.C. Unlike most of their musical co-stars, neither Dunn nor Young are music majors. Dunn is a university scholar in the Honors College. Young majors in computer science in the School of Engineering and Computer Science. They also are 2005 graduates of James E. Taylor High School, where they performed in Chorale and the “Expressions” ensemble.

Katy Junior High Five Wins Talent Search
Katy Texas News – Posted April 28, 2008

The Katy Junior High Five won the Talent Search at the Doo Wop To Disco Safe and Drug Free Schools Event on Saturday, April 19th at the Merrell Center with their rendition of “My Girl”. The KJH Five is made up by Brandon Ebrecht, Ryan Biggerstaff, Benson Wells, Matthew Corsi, and José Muniz. Great job!

Pack 545 Attends Scout Fair
Katy Texas News – Posted April 26, 2008

Cub Scout Pack 545 of Katy recently attended Scout Fair held at the Reliant Arena. The Cub Scouts presented a booth to promote science and gave the opportunity for the cubs to earn a Science Belt Loop at the same time. The experiments were based on air, pressure, and water and included Tornado in a bottle, sink and swim Squidy in a bottle, Cartesian Divers in a bottle, Mashing Marshmallows using air pressure, cool Air Canons and the most popular Airzookers which blasted a ball of air at unsuspecting victims. The boys had a great time and their booth was awarded 2nd place in Texas Skies District overall presentation awards.

Faith West Academy Point Guard Signs Letter of Intent
Katy Texas News – Posted April 18, 2008

Ashlie Matney, a point guard from Faith West Academy, has signed a National Letter of Intent to play for the Central Christian College of Kansas women’s basketball team. Matney averaged 18 PPG, 3 RPG, 4.5 APG, and 2 steals per game. She plans to major in Physical Therapy or Kinesiology.

Cinco Ranch Cougar Band Members Qualify for All-State Band
Katy Texas New – Posted April 16, 2008

Congratulations to the following students from CRHS who qualified for Texas All-State Band: Rachel Adams, Liz Ambs, Steven Dammer, Amy Luegering, Rachel Luegering, Victor Ribadeneyra, Chris Ventura and Austin Williams. Great job!!

ARTS for ALL! Festival is a Big Hit
Katy Texas News – Posted April 14, 2008
A record crowd attended Katy Visual & Performing Arts Center’s (KVPAC) 4th annual ARTS for ALL! Festival on March 29th at LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. More than 10,000 people enjoyed free admission, activities, professional theatre entertainment and refreshments free-of-charge courtesy of KVPAC and event sponsors Learning Express Toys, Katy YMCA and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch.
More than 60 booths provided by local businesses and non-profit organization offered varied choices of things to do: face painting, balloons, games, art projects, cotton candy, popcorn, professional theatre, games, a magic show and more.
Many booth providers put a lot of planning into their booths and a few standouts were recognized for their efforts. Katy Magazine won the Best Booth award for creative face painting provided by its staff dressed as fairies. The Katy Magazine Pooh Bear also made guest appearances. Moxie Moms and Crossbridge United Methodist Church tied for second place.
Kristin Miller, KVPAC Exective Director said, “We love to serve Katy with all our arts and providing the festival free-of-charge is one of the ways KVPAC fulfills its mission as a non-profit organization, ‘Educating, Healing and Unifying through the Arts.’ We deeply appreciate the event sponsors Katy YMCA, Learning Express Toys and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch for making it possible. LaCenterra is a stunning venue and the owners are generous in sharing it with the community. We are already planning next year’s festival.”

U.S. Naval Sea Cadets Learn History of America’s Flags
Katy Texas News – Posted April 14, 2008

Members of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Katy Division, recently learned the history of America’s flags at the Texas Army National Guard Amory on Westheimer Parkway from Mr. Edwin Raines, a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. Mr. Raines, a former United States Navy officer who saw action during the Cuban missile crisis, described to the Sea Cadets more than 25 flags used since 1775 by the colonies, colonial militias, and the United States.
As a formal Navy officer, Mr. Raines particularly emphasized flags used by the Continental Navy. The Sea Cadets saw a replica of the flag that John Paul Jones used on his ship, Ranger, in Quiberon Bay, France in 1778 which marked the fist time the Stars and Stripes were recognized by a foreign power.
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a national organization teaching leadership skills and teamwork for youth 11-18 years old interested in learning about the U.S. Navy and the military way of life. While no military commitment is required, many U.S. Naval Sea Cadets eventually join the armed forces.
The Sons of the American Revolution is an historical, educational, and patriotic non-profit organization dedicated to perpetuating the stories of patriotism, courage, sacrifice, tragedy, and triumph of those who achieved the independence of the American people. For more information about the Sons of the American Revolution, call 281-693-7203 or visit the Texas chapter’s website at http://www.txssar.org/indexI.htm.

Baker St. Pub & Grill to Open at LaCenterra
Katy Texas News – Posted April 10, 2008


Baker St. Pub & Grill will open its doors for business on April 14, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. serving lunch and dinner daily. An American take on England’s traditional pubs, Baker St. will provide residents with a comfortable place to gather, dine or simply unwind. The Baker St. menu features signature British fare like Fish and Chips and Shepherd’s Pie, along with American favorites including burgers, soups and salads. The full-service bar offers an extensive selection of draught beers and ales, wines and signature cocktails. The British-themed pub and restaurant will also offer state-of-the-art audio and video systems, billiards and darts, complimentary Wi-Fi and live music Wednesday through Saturday.

Baker St. Pub & Gril can be found on the southwest corner of LaCenterra adjacent to Commercial Center Boulevard. For more information, please call 281-693-0500 or visit www.bakerstreetpub.com.

Hoyt is New Texas State Free Throw Champion
Katy Texas News – Posted April 9, 2008

Natalie Hoyt, a 4th grader at McRoberts Elementary, participated in the Elks Free Throw Contest all the way to the Regional semi-finals.
Natalie is the new Texas State Champion for the 8-9 year old girls division, after winning at her school, again at the KatyISD competition, then the Gulf Coast District competition, and finally at the state level.
As the state champion, Natalie competed against regional winners from New Mexico, Louisiana and Oklahoma at the end of March.
Natalie finished in second place out of the 300,000 participants from the 4 states. Great job, Natalie!

Methodist Hospital System Announces Plans to Expand into Katy/West Houston
Details of Future Katy/West Houston Expansion Presented at Katy Area Economic Development (KAEDC) Meeting

By Katrina Katsarelis, Katy Magazine

KATY, TEXAS - Posted April 9, 2008- At the Katy Area Economic Development Council General Assembly Meeting on April 8, 2008, Wayne Voss of the Methodist Hospital System spoke about the opening of their West Houston campus near Katy. Voss, the Vice President of Community Operations and Development, said Phase One of the hospital is expected to be completed in September of 2010. The project will initially bring 400 jobs to the area which will grow to 1000 jobs upon full completion of all phases.

Currently, the Methodist Hospital system consists of four campuses; Texas Medical Center, Baytown, Sugar Land, and Willowbrook. The West Houston campus will be built next to the future Texas Children’s Hospital, located just off Barker Cypress and I-10 near Katy.

Methodist plans to develop 40 acres in Phase One, including a six-story 500,000 square foot hospital with 192 beds. “We are also constructing a state of the art medical office building for physicians which will open 5-6 months before the hospital opens,” said Voss. A preliminary campus rendering was displayed at the meeting.

Methodist Hospital System was selected #10 of 100 Top Companies to Work for by Fortune Magazine and is a highly-rated hospital system by U.S. News & World Report.

Faith West Academy Enjoys Excellent Basketball Seasons
Katy Texas News – Posted April 8, 2008

Both the boys and girls Eagles varsity basketball teams for Faith West Academy had excellent seasons this year. Both teams won the TAAPS 4 A District 3 and the Bi-District championships. Under the direction of Coach Craig Upchurch, the boy’s team completed the season with 25 wins and 6 losses. Coach Latoya Ellis led the girl’s team to 20 wins and 8 losses. Both teams advanced in the State playoffs with the boy’s team losing in the regional round to San Antonio Lutheran and the girls team losing in the regional round to Austin Brentwood. Several players on both teams were recognized for their District achievements. In addition, a number of players were recognized by TAAPS for their State achievements. Both teams are looking forward to next year in hopes of advancing further in State playoffs.

Young Katy Resident Enters Houston Pageant
Katy Texas News – Posted April 2, 2008

Three year old Katy resident, Aryan Chopra, participated in the 2008 Little Miss & Mister Hawaiian Tropic State Pageant which was held on March 29-30 at the Renaissance Houston Hotel. He won the Most Photogenic competition for the 3-4 year old division for the state and currently holds the state title. Congratulations Aryan!

Wen Chic Salon and Spa – Welcome to Katy!
Katy Texas News – Posted April 2, 2008

Wen Chic Salon and Spa, an Aveda Concept Salon, believes beauty often involves ones being in balance and harmony with all the elements of nature. Their goal is to touch the lives of those who enter their salon and build long-lasting relationships with their guests. Wen Chic is located at 6902 S Fry. Welcome Wen Chic!

MRHS Students Compete in Various State Level Competitions
Katy Texas News – Posted March 27, 2008

Ninety-nine students at Morton Ranch High School have participated this year at the state level in various competitions. Pictured are students in Future Farmers of America (FFA), Journalism, Band, Wrestling, Cheer Nation, Swimming, Orchestra, Theater, Belles Dance Team, Academic Decathlon, Art, Choir, Health Occupations, and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Congratulations to all who made as far as they did!

Michael Griffin Elementary Holds Kindergarten Rodeo
Katy Texas News – Posted March 27, 2008

The Kindergarten Rodeo at MCE serves as a culminating experience following a unit of study on Texas. The unit focuses on Texas and many of its traditions and culture, including cowboys, cowgirls and rodeos. Rodeo activities included a covered wagon race, panning for gold, barrel racing, line dancing and much more.

ESN Health Comes to Katy
Katy Texas News – Posted March 27, 2008

A ribbon cutting was held on Wednesday, March 26 to celebrate the arrival of ESN Health to Katy. Located in the Villagio Shopping Center, ESN Health strives to create and maintain healthy lifestyles. Welcome ESN Health!

Jonathan Green Signs Letter of Intent
Katy Texas News – Posted March 27, 2008

Morton Ranch High School senior Jonathan Green recently signed a letter of intent to continue his football career at Mary Hardin Baylor University. Pictured with him are his parents Sam and Mary Ann Green. Also pictured are (left to right) MRHS Athletic Director Scott Svendsen, MRHS Principal Joe Cammarata, Senior Assistant Principal Rom Crespo, and MRHS coach Jeff Seeton. Congratulations Jonathan!

MRHS Senior Signs Letter of Intent
Katy Texas News – Posted March 27, 2008

Morton Ranch High School senior Eric Kaestner signs a letter of intent to continue his swimming career at Truman University in Missouri. Eric is joined by his parents Tracy and Peter Kaestner. Also pictured (left to right) are Joe Cammarata, MRHS Principal, Rom Crespo, Senior assistant principal, Julie Hinson, Head Swim Coach, and MRHS Athletic Director Scott Svendsen. Good job Eric!

Horton Named David Weekley Homes Top Sales Consultant of the Year in Houston
Katy Texas News – Posted March 27, 2008

Katy resident Sandee Horton, Lead Sales Consultant for David Weekley Homes for the 60’ and 50’ lots at Firethorne in Katy/Fulshear, was named Top Sales Consultant of the Year in Houston for David Weekley Homes. David Weekley presented the award to Horton.
Chad Craig, David Weekley Homes’ Warranty Service Representative for Firethorne, was named the company’s Award-Winning Service Representative of the Year in Houston.
“We’d like to give our wholehearted congratulations to Sandee and Chad for the distinguished awards they received from David Weekley Homes,” said Firethorne Marketing Coordinator Janet Burkett. “We are so impressed with the jobs they do at Firethorne and take pride that their work has been recognized company-wide by David Weekley Homes,” she said.

MRHS UIL Fine Arts All State Representatives Are Announced
Katy Texas News – Posted March 27, 2008

Morton Ranch High School UIL Fine Arts All State representatives were recently announced. Pictured are senior Brooke Marrero, representative for Design Technology in the Texas Educational Theatre Association DesignFest; sophomore Jason Lu, representative in Orchestra; senior Jason Stroble, 2007-2008 Drum Major with Band; and senior Molly Pettit, 2007-2008 Colonel of the Maverick Belles.

MRHS Receives Tommy Tune Nominations
Katy Texas News – Posted March 27, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Theater Department received nine nominations this year for the Tommy Tune Awards. The Tommy Tune Awards are given every year for musicals in the Houston area. The nominations received by Morton Ranch include: Best Musical Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Lighting, Best Crew and Technical Execution, Best Leading Actor: Jacob Ockwood, Best Supporting Actor: James Smith, Best Supporting Actress: Amanda Williams, Best Featured Performer: Trent Stephenson, and Best Musical.

Smart Pipe Coming to Katy
Katy Texas News – Posted March 26, 2008

Smart Pipe Company, Inc. CEO Stephen Catha and Katy Area EDC CEO Lance LaCour announced the relocation today of Smart Pipe to a new and expanded facility in the Westgreen Business Center, Building #8, at 1426 Vander Wilt Lane, in Katy (77449).
Founded in 2004, Smart Pipe has developed an innovative pipe lining technology for the rehabilitation of old and degraded pipelines with a focus on the oil and gas market in urban and difficult to access areas. Recently, the Company received the elite designation of "Most Promising Technology" at the Rice Alliance 2006 Energy Technology Forum, and was recognized as runners-up in the 2007 Global Pipeline Awards held in Rio de Janeiro. Smart Pipe has also recently become a portfolio company of Shell Technology Ventures Fund 1 B.V. (STV). STV Fund’s majority investor is Royal Dutch Shell. The new Katy area facility includes 12,500 square feet of office and systems assembly and testing space and will be home to the Company’s executive management team, sales, and administrative staff.

Katy Irish Dance Academy Featured on Channel 13 News
Katy Texas News – Posted March 26, 2008

Students from the Cass Academy of Irish Dance appeared on Channel 13 News on March 17th to perform for St. Patrick’s Day. The dancers were led by Owner/Director Erin Cass.

Troop 925 Hikes To The Top of Enchanted Rock
Katy Texas News – Posted March 24, 2008

Several boys from Troop 925 hiked over 14 miles and scaled to the top of Enchanted Rock. The Troop arrived after midnight on Friday and weathered through night time temperatures that dipped into the low 20’s. They broke camp bright and early the next morning and hiked around the park and had lunch on top of Enchanted Rock. Then they returned to base camp to join the other boys from the Troop and enjoyed a hot dinner. They hiked out early Sunday morning after a Scouts Own Church Service.

Cinco’s Jekyll and Hyde Receives 14 of 15 Tommy Tune Nominations
Katy Texas News – Posted March 24, 2008

Congratulations to the outstanding cast and crew of Cinco Ranch High School's Jekyll and Hyde musical production. The musical received 14 out of 15 nominations for the Tommy Tune Awards, sponsored by TUTS (Houston’s Theater Under the Stars.) The production was nominated for Best Musical, Best Direction, Best Musical Direction, Best Orchestra, Best Scenic Design, Best Lighting Design, Best Costume Design, Best Crew/Technical Execution, Best Ensemble, Best Actor- Kevin Wilkinson, Best Actress- Taylor Dolan, Best Supporting Actor- Michael Simmons, Best Supporting Actress- Megan Lloyd-Jones, and Best Feature Actor- Leighton Schlanger. Developed by Theater Under the Stars, the Tommy Tune Awards honors musical theatre excellence at the high school level. An awards ceremony will be held this spring where winners will be announced.

Troop 230 Assist the Easter Bunny
Katy Texas News – Posted March 21, 2008

Boy Scouts from Troop 230 lent a helping hand to the Easter Bunny at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church. The boys were also there to help out with crafts and egg hunts for kids of all ages.

Young Pianist Earns Award of Excellence
Katy Texas News – Posted March 21, 2008

Michael Schwin, a seventh grade student at Beckendorff Junior High, has earned an Award of Excellence for his original piano composition “Acceptance.” His piece is now going on to state level. Michael started playing the piano when he was eight years old and composed his first piece within six months. He has written over 15 songs and hopes to pursue a career in music. Congratulations Michael!

Pictured: Michael Schwin with his music composition teacher, Tobin Wright of Wright Music Studio in Katy.

Creech Elementary Holds Annual Sock Hop
Katy Texas News – March 21, 2008

Creech Elementary held their annual Sock Hop on March 1, 2008. The Sock Hop dance included a silent auction, basket raffle and dinner.

The Cinco Company Students Make Blankets for Overseas Troops
Katy Texas News – Posted March 17, 2008

The first ever Junior Achievement Company in Katy ISD, called the “The Cinco Company” was established at Cinco Ranch High School in September of 2007. The Junior Achievement Company Program offers students the opportunity to establish, manage and run their own for profit company. The company members learn about capitalization, selling stock, roles and responsibilities of corporate officers, sales and marketing, production methods, business accounting, public relations and human resources. The Cinco Company is run by 25 student members who make by hand, double sided, soft, colorful fleece blankets for $18.00. By donating their labor costs they have also discounted the price of two blankets if one of the blankets is gifted to the U.S. troops fighting overseas in Iraq. Most recently they had a Valentine’s Day special and were successful in selling many of their two-tone, colorful blankets. The most popular color requests were that of the Maroon and White for the Aggies and Orange and White for the Longhorns. If you would like to purchase a blanket or support the Cinco Company’s entrepreneurship lessons and community service, please contact Neal Makkar at makkarr@hotmail.com or Trisha Mantri at mantrisha@hotmail.com.

MRHS Student Signs with Mary Hardin Baylor University
Katy Texas News – Posted March 17, 2008

Morton Ranch High School senior Javicz Jones recently signed with Mary Hardin Baylor University to continue his football career. Pictured with Javicz are his father, Cedric Jones, and his mother and sister Cassandra and Cierra Jones; (back row) Principal Joe Cammarata, Coach Patrick Fry, Coach Bobby Irvin, Coach Bill Brown, Assistant Principal Rom Crespo, and Coach Scott Svendsen. Congratulations Javicz!

Morton Ranch High School Competes in State Academic Decathlon
Katy Texas News – Posted March 14, 2008

Recently, MRHS competed at the state Academic Decathlon tournament. This was their first year to qualify for state, and the students performed very well. Several awards were received on both individual and team levels. Good job Morton Ranch!

Jonathan Xu is Katy ISD’s District Spelling Bee Champion
Katy Texas News – Posted March 14, 2008

This year's district wide spelling bee winner is Jonathan Xu, an eighth grade student at Beckendorff Junior High. Torrey Thomas, a fifth grade student at Winborn Elementary was the runner up. These students not only had to beat all their peers at their campus before moving on to participate in the district competition, they also competed against the winners from all Katy ISD junior high and elementary schools to take the champion and runner-up titles. Congratulations!

Maverick Belles Receive Awards at Galveston Island Festival
Katy Texas News – Posted March 13, 2008


Congratulations to the Morton Ranch High School Maverick Belles who had another successful competition weekend at the Galveston Island Festival! The Belles took home several awards including Officer Awards for Sweepstakes and Award of Excellence, Best overall Technique, and the Judges Award for Officer Jazz and Officer Lyrical. They received Team Awards for Sweepstakes and the Gussie Nell Davis Award of Excellence, Best Overall Precision, Best Overall Technique, Best Overall Presentation, Best Overall Choreography, and the Judges Award for all team dances (kick, modern, pom, and hip hop). The Belles were also the 1st Runner Up to Best in Class Team and were the “Best of The Best,” the third highest scoring team out of the 31 high school teams that attended.

KEYS Scholarship Dinner a Huge Success
Katy Texas News – Posted March 11, 2008

The Katy ISD KEYS Scholarship Dinner, hosted in February at the Katy ISD Education Support Complex, raised almost $12,000 for a fund that helps KEYS students further their education. Underwritten by Firethorne, Hasta La Pasta and Flodder Financial, the event offered entertainment by Mayde Creek Elementary students and beautiful artwork donated by Katy ISD students specifically for the event.
KEYS – Keep Encouraging Youth toward Success – is a mentoring initiative offered through Katy ISD’s Partners in Education. To find out more about mentoring a student on the brink of success, please contact Martha Brown at 281-396-2468 or by email at marthabrown@katyisd.org.

Katy Area Scouts Serve Lunch to the RMH in the Medical Center
Katy Texas News – Posted March 10, 2008

Several Katy area Boy Scouts from different troops recently completed a service project as a requirement for earning the Ad Altare Dei religious emblem. The scouts prepared and served lunch to the Ronald McDonald House, a fully staffed home where families can stay when they have children receiving long-term medical care.

Cub Scout Pack 548 Holds Annual Pinewood Derby
Katy Texas News – Posted March 7, 2008

On Sunday, March 2nd, Cub Scout Pack 548 held its annual Pinewood Derby at Willowfork Fire Department. Cars were judged by the Willowfork firefighters for unique designs such as most patriotic, best military theme, best car name, best NASCAR theme, etc.

KHS Girls Bowling Team Win Region VII Championship
Katy Texas News – Posted March 6, 2008

The Katy Varsity Girls Bowling Team beat 7 other high schools to bring home the Region VII Championship.
They will advance to the state competition March 29th at Copperfield Lanes in Houston.
Congratulations to the new Texas High School Bowling Club Region VII CHAMPIONS!!

Texas A&M “Big Event” Student Organizers Speak at Aggie Moms Meeting
Katy Texas News – Posted March 6, 2008

Former Cinco Ranch High School graduate and current Texas A&M “Big Event” Operations Executive Kellen Getz and Program Executive Hayli Sobolik recently spoke at the Katy/West Houston Aggie Moms February Meeting. “Big Event,” an Aggie tradition since 1982, is the largest, one-day, student-run service project in the nation where students of Texas A&M University come together to say ‘thank you’ to the residents of Bryan and College Station. On Saturday, March 29, over 10,000 student volunteers will complete jobs for residents and community organizations in the Bryan/College Station area. To recognize and support this student event, the Katy/West Houston Aggie Moms will also meet Saturday, March 29, from 1-4 PM, at Living Word Lutheran Church, to tie no-sew fleece blankets. The blankets will be donated to the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center located next to Christus Hospital on Fry Road.

Mayde Creek Swimmers Score in the State Meet
Katy Texas News – Posted March 6, 2008

Mayde Creek Swim Team finished their season on a high note with four boys competing at the State Meet in Austin.
Randal Smith took the bronze medal in the 50 Free, Tim Jones placed 4th in the 100 Free and Taylor Nichols placed 11th in the 100 Back. The relay team of Nichols, Smith, Jones, and Schnee finished 4th in the 200 Free Relay and 8th in the 400 Free Relay. Mayde Creek finished 6th out of 62 teams in overall standings. Congratulations Mayde Creek!

WoodCreek Elementary Students Compete in Destination Imagination
Katy Texas News – Posted March 4, 2008

Fifth grade students from WoodCreek Elementary School competed for the first time at the Gulf Coast Regional Destination Imagination Tournament on Saturday, February 23. The students, nicknamed the Super Spoiled Squirrels, competed in the fifth largest Destination Imagination competition in the world. The girls and their manager worked for several months to prepare for a team challenge and an instant challenge. The team showed not only dedication, but also extreme sportsmanship at practices and the competition. The judges, managers, and sponsors noted the team's creativity and teamwork. Congratulations to Annie, Hibba, Claire, Samantha, and Allison!

>Naval Sea Cadets Perform Color Guard for Katy Rodeo Parade
Katy Texas News – Posted March 3, 2008

Members of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Katy Division, recently marched in the Katy FFA Rodeo Parade. The group “presented colors”, carrying the United States and Navy flags while marching in the parade. Ensign Thomas Cloud, executive officer for the Katy Division said, “This is the 6th year we’ve marched in the Katy FFA Rodeo Parade. We marched behind representatives of VFW Post 9182, our main sponsoring organization.”
The Katy Division Naval Sea Cadets has their next drill on Saturday March 8. They will meet at 8:00am at APEX Hospital, 5602 Medical Center Drive in Katy, just west of Katy Mills Mall. They will conduct their annual inspection, do coursework and have physical training in the afternoon at Peckham Park in Katy. Any 11-17 year old boys and girls who would like to attend are invited.
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a national organization teaching leadership skills and teamwork for youth 11-18 years old interested in learning about the U.S. Navy and the military way of life. While no military commitment is required, many U.S. Naval Sea Cadets eventually join the armed forces. For more information, go to their website at www.katyseacadets.org or contact Ensign Tom Cloud at 281-579-6231.

Cub Scouts Earn Arrow of Light Award
Katy Texas News – Posted February 29, 2008

Khan Ardic and Brendan Hamilton, two cub scouts from Walker Station Elementary, Pack 616, earned their Arrow of Light awards on February 2, 2008. Congratulations to both!

Young Katy Resident Places First at Sunburst Beauty Pageant
Katy Texas News – Posted February 28, 2008

Two year old, Maya Jade Smith, placed first in her age division at the Sunburst Beauty Pageant held at First Colony Mall on February 23. Maya received three trophies, a crown, red sash and a $200 paid entry fee for the State finals which will take place in Houston in May. Congratulations Maya!!

Kevin Le Competes in Final Round of Piano Competition
Katy Texas News – Posted February 28, 2008

Kevin Le, a third grader at James Williams Elementary School, competed in the Final Round of the 2008 Houston Music Teachers Association Piano Competition on February 23, 2008. His moving performance of Rustic Dance by James Hook and A Little Story by Sergei Prokofiev captured the hearts of his audience and earned him 3rd place honors.

BJHS Student Competes in State Hoop Shoot Competition
Katy Texas News – Posted February 28, 2008

8th grade Beck Junior High School student, Jasmine Hunter, made it all the way to the state Hoop Shoot Competition that took place in Dallas over the weekend. Scoring 18 out of 25 free throws, Jasmine finished in 4th place. Congratulations Jasmine!

Jenny Craig Opens New Location in Katy
Katy Texas News – Posted February 28, 2008

Jenny Craig offers a unique approach to help people achieve their weight loss goals by learning to make healthy lifestyle changes and keep the weight off. Jenny Craig is located at 23730 Westheimer Parkway in Katy.

Verde Grand Harbor Apartments Comes to Katy
Katy Texas News – Posted February 28, 2008

Verde Grand Harbor Apartments offers well-appointed floor plans where you can escape from the ordinary. Retreat where tranquility abounds and where living well is priority one! Verde Grand Harbor is located at 24757 Grand Harbor Drive. Welcome to the community!

Katy Welcomes National Entertainment Discount Service Co.
Katy Texas News – Posted February 28, 2008

Based in Katy, National Entertainment Discount Service Co. (NEDSCO) was founded to meet the growing need for a support system for today’s schools that is economically sound and practical to execute. Welcome!

CRHS FBLA Members Host Local Business Leaders at Free Enterprise Luncheon
Katy Texas News – Posted February 27, 2008

The Cinco Ranch HS Chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) hosted the Free Enterprise Luncheon on November 8, 2007 at their school. This inspiring luncheon included both students and business leaders from the Katy area. The message focused on praising the free enterprise system and on exchanging business views among successful businessmen. The luncheon, served by Katy ISD Catering Services, began with an invocation by Co-Presidents Lauren Burns and Trisha Mantri. After briefly describing the activities of the Chapter, Trisha Mantri, Jennifer Zhou, Eric Li, and Shyam Popat gave inspiring speeches concerning the topic and expressed intelligent insights. After these speeches, business leaders and FBLA members engaged in discussions about free enterprise and how it relates to each other’s personal history. The luncheon also included a fashion show, organized by Nicholas Luedtke. Students modeled business formal clothing purchased at Katy Christian Ministries Resale Shop. The luncheon was a great success and was a valuable inspiration for participants.

MCHS FBLA Sponsors Shoe Drive
Katy Texas News – Posted February 27, 2008

The Mayde Creek High School Future Business Leaders of America sponsored a shoe drive to benefit three orphanages in Kennagop, Kenya. The three hundred orphaned children range in age from 2-18 and live in the mountainous area of Kenya with a year round temperature of 58 degrees. The FBLA students advertised the shoe drive in the school and community and collected 379 pairs of shoes and over 100 pair of socks. The shoes will leave here via a barge from the Houston Ship Channel and should arrive in Kenya sometime in April. Mr. Eden has promised a video of the children receiving the shoes.

Katy Resident Participates in Third Annual Fund for Teachers “Fund Run”
Katy Texas News – Posted February 27, 2008

On February 9, approximately 1,000 runners, volunteers and spectators took part in the “Fund Run” by raising money to benefit Houston-area teachers. One of the runners was Katy Resident, Cynthia Ramos, who teaches at Jackson Middle School. Ramos used her Fund for Teachers (FFT) grant in 2006 to travel to Budapest, Hungary where she researched Hungarian folk tales and new perspectives in literacy techniques to bring back to her students.
FFT is a Houston-based non-profit whose mission is to enrich the lives of school teachers and students throughout the U.S. by providing outstanding teachers with recognition and opportunities to pursue independent studies over the summer. Since 2001, Fund for Teachers has provided $8.5 million in grants to 2,609 teachers in 47 states and Puerto Rico. In Houston, FFT has awarded grants totaling $1.8 million to more than 500 teachers.

Seven Lakes High School Defends State Swimming Title
Katy Texas News – Posted February 26, 2008

Kyra Jones, Seven Lakes High School 10th grader, defended her State Swimming Title this past weekend in Austin, Texas at the UIL 4A Swimming State Championships. Kyra repeated her win in the 100 backstroke from last year. She also swam backstroke on the championship 200 medley relay (Kara Wilkerson-11th, Anne Steele-9th, Bri Dillon-9th) as well as finished 2nd place in the 500 freestyle. This is Kyra's 3rd State Championship in 2 years!
Kyra will be competing in the Canadian Olympic Trials the first week of April, hoping to earn a spot on the Canadian Olympic Team competing in Beijing this summer.

Welcome to the Jungle!
Katy Texas News – Posted February 26, 2008

Fielder Elementary had it's annual Funky Friday Carnival on February 22nd. It was a wonderful event for the school and all the Fielder families. Some of the highlights were camel and pony rides, rock wall climbing, carnival games, bungee flings, and the cake walk. There were themed baskets, beautiful, hand-painted ceramic pieces created special for each class, and a wonderful silent action that included vacations, sports events, local businesses and fun events with our teachers. Congratulations and thank you to Tiffani Loxton, the Funky Friday Committee, and all the volunteers for making this such a wonderful event!

OKE Students Collect Cans for KCM
Katy Texas News – Posted February 26, 2008

Students from Odessa Kilpatrick Elementary collected 4,160 cans of food for Katy Christian Ministries. HEB, a Partner in Education for the koalas, sponsored the event. The class that donated the most cans of food were given a “Healthy Party” by HEB.

Katy Pianists Win Gold Medals
Katy Texas News – Posted February 26, 2008

Two proud, young Katy pianists, Shehla Syed and Barbara Sun, led by Mrs. Anna Golka, won gold medals at the Houston Music Teachers Association Piano Contest held on February 16. They competed again in the final round of the same competition on February 23 and Shehla won first place while Barbara won second place. Congratulations to both!

BJH Students Selected to Region XXIII Junior High All-Region Band
Katy Texas News – Posted February 21, 2008
Congratulations to the students from Beck Junior High who were recently selected to the Region XXIII Junior High All-Region Band! In addition, eight of these students were also selected to the Region XXIII Junior High All-Region Orchestra: Frances Ballard, Jillian Boren, Tony Castillo, Carson Dial, John Haley, Melissa Liu, Nathan Price and Megan Zhang.

Scouts Honored at Blue & Gold Celebration
Katy Texas News – Posted February 19, 2008

On February 15 at the Blue & Gold Celebration, Nathan Schmitt and Jonathan Cash received Special Recognition Awards for five years of Scouting with Pack 548 at Odessa Kilpatrick Elementary. Congratulations!

Taylor HS Student Accepts Nomination to Attend U.S. Military Academy at West Point
Katy Texas News – Posted February 18, 2008
Lindsay Gordon, J.E. Taylor High School senior, accepts her nomination from Texas Congressman Michael T. McCaul, to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point. She will play soccer and study mechanical engineering. Lindsay reports to Cadet Basic Training on June 30.

Newland Communities Donates Festival Proceeds to Brookwood Community
Katy Texas News – Posted 2/18/08

Newland Communities presented The Brookwood Community with a check for $10,900, proceeds from the Life is Good Pumpkin Festival held last fall in west Houston’s Cinco Ranch master-planned community. A Brookshire, Texas facility for functionally disbled adults, The Brookwood Community was the local beneficiary of the Cinco Ranch festival, which also raised funds for its national beneficiary, HomeAid, a leading non-profit provider of housing for today’s homeless. For more information on the 2007 Life is Good Pumpkin Festival, visit www.newlandpumpkinfestival.com.

Principals Named for District’s Four Newest Schools
Katy Texas News – Posted on 2/18/08

Katy ISD has announced the principals that will lead the district’s four newest campuses opening August, 2008: Elisa Farris, Elementary 30; Carra Fleming, Elementary 31; Rick Hull, Junior High 11; and Patty Shafer, WoodCreek Junior High.

Farris, who currently serves as principal at Alexander Elementary, received her bachelor’s degree in education and curriculum from Texas A&M, and a master’s degree in learning resources certification from Prairie View A&M. She began her education career as a teacher at Hutsell Elementary and has held various positions in the district, including learning resource specialist, instructional coordinator and assistant principal.

As Kilpatrick’s first principal, Fleming has served as the school’s leader since opening the campus in 2003. Prior to opening Kilpatrick, she served as principal at Hayes Elementary. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Southwest Texas State University and her master’s degree in educational administration from Prairie View A&M. Fleming began her teaching career in Katy ISD as a fourth grade teacher at Winborn Elementary, and has held various other positions including team leader, instructional coordinator and assistant principal.

Hull has served as the Mayde Creek Junior High principal since 2004. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Mankato State University in Minnesota and a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Houston. Hull began his teaching career in Katy ISD as a 3rd grade teacher at Nottingham Country Elementary and prior to assuming the role of Mayde Creek Junior High principal, he served as the school’s assistant principal.

Shafer, who currently serves as principal at West Memorial Junior High, began her education career in Austin ISD as an elementary school teacher after earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Texas A&I University in Kingsville. Since then she has earned a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Houston-Victory, and has held several teaching and administrative positions in Calhoun ISD, Victoria ISD and Katy ISD. She was an assistant principal at McDonald Junior High prior to becoming principal at West Memorial.

Two Katy ISD Theatre Students Take Top State Awards and Scholarships
Katy Texas News – Posted 2/18/08

Two Katy ISD students stole the show at the Texas Educational Theatre Association’s (TETA) DesignFest earlier this month, each bringing home the only two state awards given for theatrical design, as well as each receiving $1,000 scholarships.
Brooke Marrero, a senior theatre student at Morton Ranch High School was awarded the Edward Jones Scholarship for overall design technology and Gustavo Valdes, a senior at Cinco Ranch High School received the Texas Educational Theatre Association Founders’ Award for overall lighting design.
DesignFest provides senior students with the opportunity to display their portfolios in all areas of technical theatre. Colleges and universities in addition to professional designers also showcase designs and recruit other DesignFest participants to their program.

Katy Welcomes All Tune & Lube
Katy Texas News – Posted 2/14/08

All Tune and Lube provides today’s motorists with high quality maintenance and repair services. Welcome to Katy!

Mary Brineman Receives “Distinguished Service Award”
Katy Texas News – Posted 2/14/08.

The Katy Rotary club recently presented a “Distinguished Service Award” to Mary Brineman for her career contributions and innovations in the areas of police communications and dispatching with the Katy Police Department. Each quarter, The Katy Rotary club honors a First Responder in the community for service above and beyond the call of duty. The Katy Rotary club invites the local business community to join us each Thursday noon at Hasta La Pasta, Grand Parkway.

Relax The Back Opens New Location in Katy
Katy Texas Jobs – Posted 2/14/08.

Relax The Back strives to provide serious solutions to customers seeking relief and prevention of back and neck pain. They are located in LaCenterra off of Grand Parkway and Cinco Ranch Blvd.

WME Partners with Cici’s Pizza for Community & Fundraising
Katy Texas News – Posted February 12, 2008
West Memorial Elementary students, parents and teachers join with Cici’s Pizza to celebrate the West Memorial community and raise funds for the school at a monthly pizza night. One night each month, West Memorial Elementary teachers eat for free at Cici’s Pizza, and enjoy the company of up to 200 of their students and parents who come to help raise money for the school. The teachers act as servers and fill drinks as part of this fun-filled interaction between the school and its community.

New Companies Come to Katy
Katy Texas News – Posted February 8, 2008
KGA Deforest Design LLC and Kerry R. Gilbert and Associates, Inc. held ribbon cuttings on February 6, 2008. Welcome to Katy!

VFW Post 9182 Receives Famous Wartime Photo
Katy Texas News – Posted February 6, 2008

Judge Carl B. Bentley of Fulshear, a charter member of VFW Post 9182, took the podium briefly at the Monday night veterans meeting to present the post with a framed copy of a famous wartime photo, raising the flag at Iwo Jima. Vern Babcock, post commander, and Lawrence “Scotty” Croom, accepted the photo for the post. Croom, Museum Executive Chair, said the photo would be on display in the Veterans Memorial Museum. The photo shows several Marines raising the United States Flag atop Mt. Suribachi right after the hill was secured. Bentley served as Justice of the Peace for 30 years, then city judge for Fulshear – all after “island hopping” in the WW2 Pacific Theater of Operations. He was among a group of veterans who formed Post 9182 in the Katy area in 1947.

MCHS Students Participate in Foreign Language Competition
Katy Texas News – Posted February 6, 2008

Students from Mayde Creek High School participated in the Farrington Foreign Language Competition in Aldine on January 27th and took home prizes in different categories. Alyssa Sager, French 1 – 3rd place; Rosa Perez, Spanish Heritage Intermediate – 1st place; Adam Reisch, ASL 1 – 2nd place

MCHS Wins Big with HLS&R Art
Katy Texas News – Posted February 5, 2008


MCHS artists participated in the 2007-2008 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Art Contest.
Julie Lundgren – Rainbow Award, Leah Swindle, Xavier Garza,Ming Chau, Claire Vincik, and Patrick Cho. Their teacher is Ms. Bowen.

MRHS Comedy Sportz Team Entertains at Full Speed
Katy Texas News – Posted February 4, 2008

Morton Ranch High School’s Comedy Sportz team members, last year’s High School League City Champions, are entertaining at full speed! After defeating the faculty in a practice match in the fall, the team competed against Faith West. Fans of Comedy Sportz will find them competing on February 15 at Morton Ranch High School, February 22 at Katy High School, February 26 at Cinco Ranch High School, March 13 at Spring Woods High School, and April 3 at Morton Ranch High School. Morton Ranch is also hosting the city wide tournament on May 22.

MRHS Picks 2008 Class Favorites
Katy Texas News – Posted February 4, 2008

Last week, Morton Ranch High School seniors voted on their 2008 class favorites,
and winners were announced at the Sadie Hawkins dance on Saturday night. Winners include the following students: Austin Throop and Morgan Engelder, Mr. and Miss Maverick Spirit; Javicz Jones and Samantha Miller, Most Athletic; Travis Austin and Kaitlyn Faucette, Best Looking; Jeremy Medina and Haydee Euceda, Best Dressed; Anthony DeJesus and Molly Pettit, Mr. and Miss Social; Dustin Hudec and Olivia Vickery, Biggest Flirt; Dat Le and Najla Valdes, Most Likely to Succeed; Stepheon Stewart, Alzavier Dixon, and Megan Whitaker, Most Humorous; Jonathan Torres and Stephanie Nguyen, Mr. and Miss Congeniality; and Ted Tran and Laura Seifert, Mr. and Miss Brain.

MRHS Students Place 1st in HOSA Competition
Katy Texas News – Posted February 1, 2008
Eight Morton Ranch High School students competed in the Area 2 Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) Competition. Four of those students placed first in their respective areas: Rita Ramos and Pablo Rendon placed first in Emergency Medical Terminology, and Lily Espinosa and Cory Stewart placed first in Community Emergency Response Team. These two teams will advance to the state HOSA Competition in Austin.

BJH 8A Girls Basketball Wins First Place
Katy Texas News – Posted February 1, 2008

The Beckendorff Junior High 8A Girls Basketball team came out first place in the West Houston Middle School Basketball Tournament held in Katy on January 23rd-25th. Members of the team include Brooklynne MeGehee, Katie Muellenberg, Lauren Daniel, Amanda Grimes, Rachel Shell, Leslie Patton, Coach Eddie Bombita. Taylor Swillo, Morgan McKeller, Kelsey Gomez, Rachel Arthur, Nicole Breaux, Hannah Keal, Nikki Yost. Ambrosia Woodard and Tanya Xiong.

WHCS Spelling Bee Winner
Katy Texas News - Posted January 30, 2008

Scarlett Dwyer, a fourth grader at West Houston Charter School, won first place in the school-wide spelling bee held January 29th. Megan Hellwig, a fourth grader also, was runner-up. Scarlett will represent the school at the district-wide competition on February 23rd.

Katy ISD to Host Parenting Classes throughout February
Katy Texas News - Posted January 30, 2008

Katy ISD Professional Learning Group will host Love and Logic parenting classes every Wednesday in February at Nottingham Country Elementary from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and in the evening at Morton Ranch High School from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The sessions will help parents learn how to gain respect, how to help their children make better decisions and instill responsibility in them. “Participants will learn the specific how-to's of successful parenting, not just theoretical concepts,” said Hamman, instructional specialist for professional learning. “Some of the specific skills that parents will learn involve lessons on how to get their children to listen the first time, how to avoid power struggles over chores, how to handle misbehavior in public and how to stay calm and avoid arguments with their kids.” Contact Katy ISD Professional Learning for more information or enrollment: 281-396-2310.

Young Pianist Competition Winner
Katy Texas News - Posted January 30, 2008

Fort Bend County resident, Emily Campbell, was the Winner of the 7th and 8th Grade Division, and the Overall Winner of the sixth annual Blinn College 2008 Young Pianist Competition at the Dr. W.W. O'Donnell Performing Arts Center on the Brenham Campus of Blinn College. Emily is in the 7th grade and competed with 24 musicians in 1st through 12th grades for the prizes. She received a blue ribbon, two plaques, and a cash prize.

Cinco Ranch HS Students Selected for All-State
Katy Texas News - Posted January 29, 2008

Four Cinco Ranch High School students were selected for All-State. Choir Members: Timothy Williams (Men's Choir), Erin Dahlstrom (Women's Choir), Kevin Wilkinson (Mixed Choir) & Angela Bou Kheir (Women's Choir).

Pattison Elementary Students Enjoy Book Club
Katy Texas News - Posted January 29, 2008

Pattison Elementary 4th graders at early morning book club. Having read The Invention of Hugo Cabret, by Brian Selznick; they ate croissants, like the main character in the story did, while they discussed the book.

Katy Scouts Involved in World’s Largest Scout Fair
Katy Texas News - Posted January 29, 2008

Cub Scouts from Pack 545, chartered by JE Williams Elementary PTA, will join thousands of other Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, parents and visitors for Scout Fair. Under the leadership of Tammy Wallis of Katy, Pack 545 will be working on activities at the Scout Fair such as Tornado bottles, magnets, and other items to help scouts earn the Science belt loop. The Scout Fair, sponsored by the Sam Houston Area Council Boy Scouts of America is the nation’s largest, featuring 800 Scouting exhibits capitalizing on the theme “Race to Scouting”. Exhibits will include demonstrations on pioneering, first aid, woodworking, sailing, computers, aviation, Indian Lore and other Scouting activities. Visitors are invited to observe and participate. Scouts from Pack 545 are selling family tickets for $10.00 each, and are encouraging families to purchase a ticket from Pack 545 and spend the afternoon enjoying the Scout Fair. Tickets are available from any Scout or at the Reliant Arena. For more information, contact Tammy Wallis at 281-693-1196 or dwallis3@comcast.net.

Morton Ranch FFA Students Capture 5 Grand Champ Buckles
Katy Texas News - Posted January 29, 2008

On Saturday, January 12, 2008, the Morton Ranch High School FFA participated in the Katy ISD FFA Progress Show. Over 250 students representing the six KISD High Schools exhibited their livestock projects in the final tune-up before the February Livestock show. Morton Ranch High School Mavericks had a big day, capturing five of eight Grand Champion buckles and three Reserve Champion Honors. The following Morton Ranch High School students were chosen for awards during the day. Patti Gregoire, Cassy Hottensen, Stephanie Kozel, Paul Gonzales, Megan Nichols, Brandon Thomas, Patti Gregoire, Brent Westmoreland, Austin Lamarr, Jayce Johnston, Chris Fraughton, Lizza Delgado, Cassy Hottensen, Kristen Gibson, Courtnie Payton, Ryan McLane, Cathryn Mothersbaugh, Justin Tripp, Jenifer Frie, Dylan Robbins, Bria Richard, Katy Barber, Bailey Rahn, Brandon Thomas, Lauren Jackson. Morton Ranch High School would like to congratulate all of their FFA students who worked hard to make the FFA Progress Show a success!

LaCenterra’s Newest Restaurant - Mission Burrito!
Katy Texas News - Posted January 29, 2008

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch’s menu of restaurant options continues to grow with the opening of Mission Burrito January 31. Mission Burrito’s colorful new menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, quesadillas, cold drinks and sodas. Plus, Mission must-haves like custom-made burritos, burrito bowls, tacos and signature salsas. Mission Burrito is located adjacent to Jamba Juice and Starbucks in LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, 23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard and Grand Parkway in Katy, Texas. Restaurant hours: Monday – Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. For more information, please call 281-371- 7150.

Beckendorff JH Girls Take First Place
Katy Texas News - Posted January 28, 2008

Beckendorff Junior High 7A girls basketball team placed 1st in the West Houston Middle School tournament on January 26. They are coached by Kristi LeCronier.

Alexander Elementary Spelling Bee Champ!
Katy Texas News - Posted January 28, 2008

Roosevelt Alexander Elementary is very proud of its Spelling Bee Winners. Congratulations Nicole Ting from Mrs. Gesoff's 5th grade class. Congratulations also to the runner up, Rohit Gupte from Mrs. Buturla's 4th grade class.

MRHS Senior Chosen to Perform with All-State Group
Katy Texas News - Posted January 28, 2008

John Stroble, a member of the Morton Ranch High School Maverick Marching Band, will perform with the Texas All-State Orchestra in San Antonio next month. John will play 1st chair Contra Bassoon as part of the Texas Music Educators Association clinic and convention meeting. He was chosen for the honor in competitive auditions held this year across the state at district, region, and area levels. This is John’s third time to perform as a member of a TMEA All-State group. His proud parents are Mark and Tracy Stroble.

Fielder Elementary’s First International Night
Katy Texas News - Posted January 28, 2008

Fielder Falcons traveled the globe at International Night. With their passports in hand, the students and their families were able to experience each country through food, music, dance, geography, and crafts. Thank you to all the volunteers and staff who made this first time event a success!

Taylor HS Student Performs with Houston Grand Opera
Katy Texas News - Posted January 25, 2008

Laura Smolik, a Taylor High School junior, landed a role in the upcoming production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute with the Houston Grand Opera opening Jan. 25 at the Wortham Theater Center in Houston. Smolik, who has performed with the Houston Grand Opera before, will be singing the part of a genie in German. She has performed in 23 shows through acting, singing and dance in productions such as Suessical, West Side Story and The Nutcracker. She has been active in the Memorial Parkway Junior High theatre department, Taylor High School theatre department and as a member of Masqureade’s Tribble School of Professional Musical Theatre. Smolik is also a member of the 2007 Texas All-State Choir as second chair, a finale performer in the 2006 Tommy Tune awards and has participated in the Oklahoma City University Vocal Arts Institute for Classical Voice and Opera, among many other accomplishments.

Cinco Ranch HS Sisters Selected for Youth Symphony
Katy Texas News - Posted January 25, 2008

Rachel and Amy Luegering are not only sisters; they are All-State musicians and will perform together in the upcoming Salute to Educators Houston Youth Symphony on Jan. 29. Only 103 student musicians were selected from all of Houston to play in the youth symphony. Rachel is a senior at Cinco Ranch High School and plays the Piccolo – Amy is a junior at Cinco Ranch and plays the oboe. Each of the sisters has aspirations to pursue music after high school and college.

Katy ISD Offers New Two-Way Immersion Program
Katy Texas News - Posted January 25, 2008

A limited number of Katy ISD kindergarten students who are native speakers of either English or Spanish will have the opportunity to enroll in an optional two-way immersion program for the first time during the 2008-09 school year. The program will be offered at Fielder and Memorial Parkway elementary schools. The two-way immersion program will provide instruction in both English and Spanish, with the goal that participating students will become bilingual, bi-cultural and bi-literate citizens. Utilizing a simultaneous literacy model, native speakers of both English and Spanish will receive equal amount of language arts instruction in both languages. Students may enroll in the program from any attendance zone in the district by applying with Katy ISD’s Department of Other Languages. For more information, contact Rosie Garza, Instructional Officer for Bilingual Ed. at 281-396-7635.

Katy's New Metro Park & Ride
Katy Texas News - Posted January 25, 2008

METRO is expanding its commuter service in Katy with the addition of the 222 Grand Parkway Park & Ride. Starting Monday, January 28, service will begin from the METRO-designated parking area at the Cinemark Theatre lot, located just north of I-10 West/Katy Freeway at 1030 W. Grand Parkway North. The 222 Grand Parkway Park & Ride will provide direct service between the Grand Parkway and downtown Houston. Buses will depart every 15 minutes between 5:30 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. and return every 15 minutes between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. For patrons transferring, an easy one block connection to METRORail will be available from a stop adjacent to the Downtown Transit Center in the mornings and afternoons. For schedule or more information call 713-635-4000 or visit us at ridemetro.org.

MRHS Academic Decathlon Team Goes to State
Katy Texas News - Posted January 25, 2008

The Morton Ranch High School Academic Decathlon Team advanced to the state competition after the regional competition last week. Morton Ranch’s team came in 6th out of the large schools in the region. Pictured are team members: Rene Lara, Ivette Marquez, Kevin Allred, John Stroble, Jennifer Cottrell, Chanda Nguyen, Lisa MacIntyre, James Borwell, and Dionna Budd. Several students received individual awards as well. John Stroble received third place in music, third place in language and literature, and first place team overall. James Borwell received first place in interview. Kevin Allred received second place in economics. Chanda Nguyen received third place in economics, third place in language and literature, and first place team overall. Lisa MacIntyre received first place language and literature, second place essay, and first place team overall. The team is coached this year by Carrie McDaniel, Lauri Crestani, and Mary Pyron. Photo courtesy of Mary Pyron.

Seven Lakes High School Earns 3 All-State Choir Positions
Katy Texas News - Posted January 25, 2008

Three choir students from Seven Lakes High School were chosen as members of the Texas All-State Choir at auditions held earlier this month. Meilina Moore and Julia Rucker were both named to the Women’s Choir and Caroline Badalamenti, a two-year All-State member, was named to the Mixed Choir. They will travel to San Antonio in February to perform with the All-State Choir at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention.

Katy Aggie Moms Attend Camp in College Station
Katy Texas News - Posted January 24, 2008

Katy/West Houston Aggie Moms recently joined campers from across Texas, and the United States, for the 14th Annual Aggie Moms Camp at the Hilton Hotel in College Station, Texas. These 28 ladies, the largest group from any single club, met Aggie Moms, Grandmas, Aunts and Friends for a weekend of fun and fellowship planned by Camp Co-Director and Katy resident Nancy Williford and Co-Director Wanda Petree. With 275 Aggie supporters attending, this was the largest camp in its 14 year history. The group practiced their yells with former Yell Leader Marty Holmes, watched a spectacular fashion show, and shopped at a special Aggie Boutique. Country artist Granger Smith even treated the group to an unexpected concert, including his hit, We Bleed Maroon. The highlight of the weekend came when students joined their moms for dinner and Silver Taps at the Student Recreation Center. Silver Taps honored the students who were killed in the 1999 Bonfire Collapse. Moms returned to Katy with new friends, numerous door prizes and “Touched by the Aggie Spirit” as the camp theme had promised.

Troop 925 - A Camping We Will Go!
Katy Texas News - Posted January 24, 2008

Boy Scout Troop 925 went camping in Independence, Texas for their annual Camporee practice campout. The boys participated in numerous scouting activities including fire building, orienteering, knots and lashings, team building, and cooking. After a full day of camping, several went on an evening hike lit only by the moonlight with the sounds of coyotes in the distance. The boys braved the rain and cold weather while having a ton of fun. Pictured: Camerin Edwards and Simon Scherer celebrating the finishing of a box of cereal while Philip Dante looks on.

Katy YMCA now Charters Local Scout Organizations
Katy Texas News - Posted January 24, 2008

Cub Scout Pack 925, Boy Scout Pack 925 and Venture Crew 281 have renewed their charter with the Katy Family YMCA. Cub Scout Pack 925 will continue to meet at Hayes Elementary for their normal Pack events with the hope of moving some of their special activities to the YMCA. Boy Scout Troop 925 now holds their regular meetings at the YMCA on Tuesday nights at 7:30PM. The Venture Crew also holds their meetings at the YMCA on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7:30PM. All three organizations are looking forward to using the Day Camp facilities on Mason Rd. in the near future and making that location their permanent home. The Katy Family YMCA is located at 22807 Westheimer Parkway in Katy. For more information on Cub Scouting, please contact Debra Sosa-Lee at 281-650-1313 or Joe Dante at 281-395-3357. For more information about Boy Scouts, please contact James Williams at 281-923-1659 or Joe Dante at 281-395-3357. For more information about Venture Scouts, please contact Randy Robinson at 713-884-7920 or Joe Dante at 281-395-3357.

Dr. Hicks Will Be Greatly Missed by the Katy Community
Katy Texas News - Posted January 24, 2008

Dr. Benfard Hicks passed away Saturday, January 19, 2008. He was a pediatrician at the Kelsey Seybold Clinic in Katy since 1996 and was loved by many Katy children and parents. He was recently recognized at the Katy Magazine 2007 Readers’ Choice Awards. Dr. Hicks was a dedicated physician, and will be deeply missed by the Katy Community. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Hicks; his children, Benfard E. Hicks, Jr. and Kelly Hicks; his parents, Jim and Fay Hicks; and his siblings, Jimmy Hicks, Kent Hicks, and Melinda Eller, and their families. Visitation: Thursday, January 24, 2008, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Earthman Southwest Chapel, 12555 South Kirkwood, Stafford. Funeral Service: Friday, January 25, 2008, Earthman Southwest Chapel. For those desiring, memorials may be made to Texas Children's Hospital, at texaschildrenshospital.org.

Taylor HS Choir Members Selected for All-State
Katy Texas News - Posted January 23, 2008

Two Taylor High School Juniors, Leah Romero and Randi Garza, have been selected to perform with the 2008 All-State Choir during the Annual Texas Music Educators Association Clinic and Convention, Saturday, February 16, in San Antonio.

Katy/West Houston Aggie Moms Scholarships
Katy Texas News - Posted January 23, 2008

The Katy/West Houston Texas A&M University Mothers’ Club will award four $1000 scholarships for the fall semester of 2008 to current students attending Texas A&M University College Station or Texas A&M University Galveston. Students who are eligible to apply for these scholarships MUST have a permanent residential address in one of the following Katy/West Houston area zip codes: 77079, 77084, 77094, 77413, 77423, 77449, 77450, 77466, 77484, 77491, 77492, 77493, or 77494. Applications must be postmarked by April 1, 2008. If you have questions or need further information, please contact Scholarship Chairperson Debbie Derong at 281-391-6216 or Debderong@aol.com.

CRHS Choir Members Selected for Region Choir
Katy Texas News - Posted January 18, 2008


Cinco Ranch High School choir students qualified and participated in the TMEA Region 23 Region Choir Clinic and Concert.

Baker St. Pub & Grill Comes to LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
Katy Texas News – Posted January 16, 2008

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch announces the addition of 221B Baker Street Pub & Grill to its impressive roster of retail and restaurant tenants. An American take on England’s traditional pubs, Baker St. will offer residents a comfortable place to gather, dine or simply unwind. The Baker St. menu will feature signature British fare like Fish and Chips and Shepherd’s Pie, along with American favorites including burgers, soups and salads. The full-service bar will offer a vast selection of draught beers and ales, wines and signature cocktails. Guests will also enjoy state-of-the-art audio and video systems, complimentary Wi-Fi, live music Wednesday through Saturday and traditional games of skill such as billiards and darts. For more information regarding Baker St. Pub & Grill, please call 713-464-8167 or visit www.bakerstreetpub.com.

LaCenterra Celebrates Year-End Openings
Katy Texas News – Posted on January 16, 2008

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch opened an additional 22,000 square feet of center space in December welcoming five new retailers to the premier shopping destination. While boasting an already impressive tenant roster including national chains and hand-picked specialty retailers, this wave of openings brought an exciting mix of retailers and restaurants to the area. December openings included: Panera Bread, Mint Clothing and Accessories, Kirkland’s Home, Kenzo Sushi Bistro and Relax the Back.

The notable list of retail tenants will continue to grow with construction planning and/or build-out currently underway on 17,647 square feet of space. Mission Burrito, along with several unannounced retail partners, will prepare openings beginning later this month. Lease negotiations are underway on a total of 21,000 square feet taking Phase I occupancy to over 90%. Letters of intent are being negotiated with prospective tenants on a total of 50,000 square feet of space for Phase II, which is scheduled to open Spring 2009.

LaCenterra is located just west of Houston at 23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard and Grand Parkway in Katy, Texas.

Katy VFW Members Participate in Ribbon Cutting
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 16, 2008

Katy VFW #9182 Members participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Whataburger Restaurant that opened on January 10th on Westheimer Parkway.

Anytime Fitness Opens New Location in Katy
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 16, 2008

At Anytime Fitness they focus on a healthy lifestyle change that includes both nutrition and exercise. They also offer personal training programs designed specifically for you and your goals and fitness level. Anytime Fitness has a new location in Katy – 23010 Highland Knolls! They opened their doors on January 11.

Westbound Bank - Welcome to Katy!
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 16, 2008

Westbound Bank is a modern community bank with products and services designed to serve every financial need. Westbound Bank has a new location in Katy – 655 W Grand Pkwy! They opened their doors on January 14.

Beck Junior High - 5 Undefeated District Champ Football Teams!
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 15, 2008

Beck Junior High 7th and 8th Teams finished the season with undefeated records and undisputed KISD district championships. Go Bulldogs!

MRHS Grad Wins Nationwide Journalism Contest
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 15, 2008

Morton Ranch High School graduate Jon-wesley Schyma was just announced as a national Gold Key Award winner in Quill and Scroll Society’s annual journalism contest. Schyma’s photo, titled “Drum Major” was named as one of only 160 winners nationwide, competing against 1400 other entries. The photo, of graduate Cyrus Morris, appeared on the Band pages of the 2007 MRHS Amaranthine yearbook. Schyma, as a National Winner, is eligible to apply for one of the Edward J. Nell Memorial Scholarships in Journalism.

MCHS Choir Students Audition for All State Choir
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 15, 2008

Four Mayde Creek High School Choir students recently traveled to Deer Park for the All State Choir auditions. The All State Choir will perform at the Texas Music Educators Convention in San Antonio in February. Shown left to right are Zachary Bryant, first alternate to the Men’s Choir, Kristen Meyers, first alternate to Area auditions, Johnathan Luna, 3rd chair Mixed All State Choir and Alex Lathrom, 4th chair Mixed All State Choir. The MCHS Choir is under the direction of Michael Madrid and Marsha Carlisle.

CRHS Art Students Compete in Scholastic Art Competition
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 15, 2008

Cinco Ranch High School advanced art students recently competed in the Scholastic Art Competition. They did extremely well, walking away with top honors. Silver Key winners were honored at a reception this past weekend. Gold Key winners will advance to the national competition in New York after their awards ceremony in February. Front Row-Eric Bartlett(Gold Key individual), Kate Choyce(Gold Key individual and Silver Key Portfolio), Justin Dolan(Gold Key winner both individual and Portfolio) , Huawei Su(Gold Key individual and Silver Key Portfolio) Back Row-Jessica Pisani(Silver Key), Emily Fitzpatrick(Silver Key individual and Portfolio), Stephanie Anderson(2 Gold Key individuals), Rachel Jablonski(Silver Key individual), Shelby King(Gold Key), and Adam Yoho(Gold Key)

MRHS Yearbook Staff Wins First Place Award
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 14, 2008

Congratulations to Morton Ranch High School’s 2006-2007 yearbook staff! The Amaranthine Yearbook recently received a first place award from the American Scholastic Press Association for its content presentation, general page design, general photography, publication structure, and creativity. Pictured are 2007 Amaranthine staffers Chelsi Greene, Oscar Tamez, Carlota Herrera, Joe Franzese, Chris Benavides, Ashley Campos, Rico Gardner, and Ivette Marquez. Not pictured are 2007 graduates Iliana Ramos and Jonwesley Schyma. Photo by James Chargois.

MRHS Wrestling Team To Compete In Weekend Tournaments
Katy Texas News - Posted on January 11, 2008

The Morton Ranch Wrestling team competed last night in the North Katy Duals at the Merrell Center. In the Girls division the Mavericks defeated Mayde Creek 36-24 and fell to the Katy Tigers 28-22. In the JV division The Mavericks defeated Mayde Creek 36-24 and Katy 38-22- Becoming the North Katy Dual JV Champions.

For the Boys Varsity the Mavericks demolished Mayde Creek 67-3 winning 14 of 15 weight classes. In the championship round the Mavericks were led by Freshmen Vincent Navarro and Cyrus Brown who came up with big pins to help the match stay close. In the final match of the night, Senior Alan Guillen pinned the Tiger to seal the victory for the Mavericks. The Boys Dual record now stands at 13-1-1. The Boys team will be traveling to College Station this weekend to compete in the A&M Consolidated Tiger Invitational while the girls will travel to compete at the Sam Houston Round Robin Tournament in Houston.

Katy Senior Apartment Community Grows
Katy Texas News – Posted on January 9, 2008

The second phase of Providence Place Apartments in the Katy area will opening in mid to late January, according to Linda Barham, Manager. The apartments are designed for rental by seniors 55 and over. Featuring one and two-bedroom apartments, the new 78 units are all of the single-story bungalow style, with attached garages, complete with remote control garage door opener. Providence Place Apartments were designed to provide affordable housing to senior citizens. The homes have amenities such as club and movie rooms, exercise area, games, craft and computer spaces, and a swimming pool complete with water fountains. In addition, a beauty/barber shop is located on the premises of the gated community. A chaplain serves the apartments with Bible Classes and transportation to some of the local churches is provided. Daily organized exercise classes are offered. Also, the management provides transportation to area grocer and department stores on Saturday morning to the residents at no charge. Each month, a trip is planned where those desiring to participate can do a variety of things, from visit nearby Indian Villages and casinos, the Battleship Texas, baseball games, or many other events. Seasonal sightseeing trips are in the works for those desiring to see the nature scenery located nearby. The main office of Providence Place is located at 20300 Saums Road, just west of Fry Road and slightly over a mile north of Interstate 10 in the Katy area. The telephone number is 281-647-6470.

KAEDC Meeting Addresses Projected Future Land Use and Population Growth
Katy Texas News – Posted on January 8, 2008

By Katrina Katsarelis
Katy Magazine

The General Assembly meeting of the Katy Area Economic Development Council was held January 8, 2008 in the Katy ISD Education Support Complex.

Kerry R. Gilbert with Kerry R. Gilbert & Associates conducted the presentation on the Katy Area Land Use Plan 2007-2035. Gilbert discussed a preliminary plan detailing current and future land use in Katy and the population expansion expectations through the year 2035. Using data from their own growth statistics along with projections provided by Pat Guzman of Katy ISD, Gilbert estimated the 2035 population of people within the Katy ISD boundaries at 572,015 compared with Katy’s 2007 population of 205,531. This reflects a projected growth rate of 178% from 2007-2035.

Gilbert also said the current number of households in Katy ISD boundaries (67,315) is projected to grow to 187,345 by 2035. Gilbert touched on parks and open spaces and detailed the many jurisdictions controlling land in Katy including Harris County, Fort Bend County, Waller County, the City of Katy, the City of Houston, Katy ISD, the MUD district, and many land developers. He explained how each entity has authority over various parks and hike and bike trails, and Katy has an opportunity to forge a connection between all of the entities, possibly linking many of these trails into a more cohesive trails system. With regard to hike and bike trails Gilbert said, “No other place in the greater Houston area has the opportunity we have here. “We already have the base facilities in place.” Gilbert emphasized this is not something Katy will be able to do easily and quickly and says it’s going to take years of time to get this system in place.

Beckendorff JH Fun Run - Fun for All!
Katy Texas News – Posted on January 7, 2008

Many students, parents, and teachers participated in the Beckendorff Junior High Fun Run, a school and PTA fundraiser.

Cinco Ranch High School Suffers a Great Loss
Katy Texas News – Posted on January 3, 2008

Mr. Aimar was an amazing and dedicated teacher who loved his students and loved teaching at Cinco Ranch High School. He passed away on Christmas Eve following a minor surgery. A Memorial Service is planned for today, January 3, at 1:00 p.m. It will be held at St. Peter's United Methodist Church, 20775 Kingsland Blvd, Katy, 281-492-0856.

If desired, donations may be made to the Mel Aimar Memorial Scholarship Fund, checks payable to CRHS - Aimar Fund, 23440 Cinco Ranch Boulevard, Katy, Texas, attn. Financial Office. One or more scholarships will be awarded to a graduating senior who is pursuing a degree in science. A website is now open to post messages – go to mem.com and type "Aimar". When the weather warms up, a tree will be planted at CRHS in Mr. Aimar's honor. Please pray for the CRHS families who are going through such hurt over their loss during this holiday season.

Katy Area Libraries Offer Tax Help for Katyites
Katy Texas News – Posted on January 3, 2008

The AARP Tax Aide service will begin free tax help and free Income Tax filing for the Katy area in the following three locations starting the first week of February:
*Maud Smith Marks Library, 1815 Westgreen, Katy. Mondays (e-filing only), and Fridays (e-filing and by hand): 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
*Katy Library, 5414 Franz Rd, Katy. Tuesdays (e-filing only), 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.
*Cinco Ranch Library, 2620 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy. Mondays (e-filing only), 1 – 5 p.m.