The Katy City Council and the Katy ISD Board of Trustees recently held elections this past weekend, with two city council positions and two school board positions up for election. In the Katy City Council race, Steve Pierson and incumbent Larry Gore were elected to serve. In the Katy ISD Board of Trustees race, voters elected Brian Michalsky and Charles Griffin to serve. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

|  Email This Post

Seven Lakes High School senior Nicole Breaux recently signed with the University of Louisiana to play tennis. She was joined at the signing ceremony by (front row) her mom Tricia Breaux, Lanie Breaux, (back row) SLHS Principal Ted Vierling, Head Tennis Coach Kevin Mcilvain, her dad Barry Breaux, and Assistant Tennis Coach Joshua Martinez. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Seven Lakes High School senior Kyle Fitch recently signed with the University of Mary to play football. He was joined at the signing ceremony by (front row) his mom Tina Fitch, brother Luke Fitch, (back row) SLHS Athletic Coordinator Lydell Wilson, Assistant Football Coach Scott Joseph, dad Lingard Fitch, sister Lauren Fitch, and Assistant Football Coach David Pollack. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Tiger-Rock Martial Arts of Katy (formerly Katy TaeKwonDo Academy) recently announced its newest class of Black Belt students reaching personal milestones, instructors who each passed testing requirements for their next rank level, and Tiger Cub graduates during the April belt rank exam.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

“Big Event,” an Aggie tradition since 1982, is the largest, one-day, student-run, service project in the nation. On March 24, a record 17,500 Texas A&M University students came together to say thank you to the Bryan/College Station community by completing volunteer projects for residents and community organizations. To recognize and support this student event, local Aggie moms met at Living Word Lutheran Church to tie fleece blankets for charities in Katy. The group completed 58 blankets, which were donated to the Krause Center in Katy. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The James E. Taylor High School chorale recently had celebrated National Day of Prayer by performing at an interfaith service at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church. The concert offered a moving and fitting conclusion of the end of the year. They will be joined by all THS choirs for a final performance May 22 at 7 p.m. in the THS Performing Arts Center. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Morton Ranch High School seniors Jose Muniz and Matt Herrera recently signed letters of intent to play baseball at the University of Houston Victoria for the upcoming school year. They were joined at the signing ceremony by their parents, MRHS Athletic Coordinator Dave Meadows, Senior Class Assistant Principal Rom Crespo, Head Baseball Coach Jim Janczak, and Principal Mark Grisdale. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Middle blocker Lydia McKay, a senior at Katy High School, recently signed a letter of intent to attend Texas Tech University and play volleyball in fall 2012. She was joined at the signing ceremony by (first row) her mom Brenda Backs, (back row, from left) Assistant Athletic Coordinator Dianne Loftin, Head Volleyball Coach Karen Paxton, and Principal Dr. Steve Robertson. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Motivational speaker Alvin Law of Canada recently visited with sixth- and seventh-grade students at McMeans Junior High School. Law, born with no arms, had some great messages for the students on achieving their dreams. He shared stories of how being looked at in a different way his whole life helped him succeed and messages about treating those around us with respect and dignity. Pictured with Law are his niece and nephew Rebecca and Nicholas Reitsma. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The demand for human donor milk in hospital neonatal intensive care units continues to rise, and a new milk bank depot in Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital will give lactating mothers a new drop-off location for their donations. The milk depot will be serviced by the Mothers’ Milk Bank at Austin. Women who are currently breastfeeding infants under 1 year old are eligible to be screened at no charge to become breast milk donors.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Rob Bamford, who has developed multiple, award-winning communities spanning more than 73,000 home sites, has been named general manager of the west Houston master-planned community, Cross Creek Ranch. A project of Johnson Development Corporation, Cross Creek Ranch ranked as one of the top 20 best-selling master-planned communities in the U.S. in 2011. Most recently, the community was recognized as Houston’s 2012 Master Planned Community of the Year by the Greater Houston Builders Association.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Mayde Creek High School yearbook staff led by advisor Shetye Cypher was recently honored for its accomplishments in yearbook design and coverage by Balfour Yearbooks. The MCHS yearbook is featured in the 26th edition of Yearbook Yearbook, which honors approximately 3% of yearbook staffs who use Balfour. Yearbooks published by Balfour for the 2011 school year were evaluated in one or more of the following areas: theme development, layout design, photo content, secondary packages, and cover design. Please mention you found this www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD’s Volunteers in Public Schools initiative recently hosted its annual VIPS Breakfast honoring the thousands of school district volunteers who donate their time supporting Katy ISD students and teachers. This school year, 14,700 volunteers donated 761,321 hours, which, in human resource terms, equates to $16,588,988. This year’s speakers were music therapist Meagan Morrow, clinical coordinator Dawn Phillips, and speech pathologist Kelley Warren Kirst from TIRR Memorial Hermann.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD recently announced the district-wide and campus teachers of the year for 2011-2012. Each campus selected one outstanding teacher who has demonstrated excellence and leadership among their peers and in their classrooms. From that selection of campus honorees, Katy ISD honored two as its district-wide teachers of the year. Brittany Spurlock of the Miller Career and Technology Center and Colleen Dominguez of Bear Creek Elementary School were named the district-wide teachers of the year.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Gabriel Traknyak, a second-year engineering student at the Miller Career and Technology Center, recently won first place at the Houston chapter of the American Institute of Architecture’s annual competition. The competition involved designing a museum to be sited opposite the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. The three-month project involved a computer design, sketches, justification, artistic renderings, and a model. Judging was by prominent local architects, including a Rice architectural professor and the Menil Museum curator. Over 100 students from schools across the six counties of the greater Houston metro area entered to compete for awards and scholarships.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Volleyball setter Jordan Moore, a senior at Katy High School, recently signed a letter of intent to attend Texas State University and play volleyball in fall 2012. She was joined at the signing ceremony by (front row) her parents Ken and Kim, (back row, from left) Assistant Athletic Coordinator Dianne Loftin, Head Volleyball Coach Karen Paxton, Principal Dr. Steve Robertson,  Head Trainer Justin Landers, and Head Trainer Russell Sadberry. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Golfer Taylor Dillingham, a senior at Katy High School, recently signed a letter of intent to attend St. Edwards University and play golf in fall 2012. She was joined at the signing ceremony by (front row) her parents David and Lesley, (back row, from left) head golf coach Paul Donley, Principal Dr. Steve Robertson, and Athletic Coordinator and Head Football Coach Gary Joseph. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Six Memorial Hermann hospitals recently earned the distinguished recognition of being named among the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals by Thomson Reuters, a leading provider of information and solutions to improve the cost and quality of healthcare. This is the fourth time Memorial Hermann Northwest, Memorial Hermann Southeast, Memorial Hermann Southwest, and Memorial Hermann The Woodlands hospitals have been recognized with this honor. Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital have made the list two times. Additionally, Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital have been recognized in the past.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

First United Methodist Church Katy recently celebrated 100 years of Girl Scouting in the community. The group recognized all of the members who have participated in Girl Scouting, honoring their accomplishments and contributions to the Katy area. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Four eighth-grade Girl Scouts at McMeans Junior High School recently earned the Silver Service Leadership Award. Each girl volunteered 70 hours or more this year by making fleece blankets for seniors at Christmas and hosting a pet collection drive to aid seniors with pets through Meals on Wheels. In addition, their troop earned the Girl Scout Community Service Award for volunteering with other organizations. Pictured are (from left) Keely Keeney, Harley Maldonado, Emily Ridgaway, and Insiyah Sulemanji. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Morton Ranch High School senior Cheryl Cedillo recently earned the Tommy Tune Award for Best Feature Actor at the Hobby Center. The Tommy Tune Awards program presented $10,000 in scholarship awards to 11 area students, as well as many outstanding performance awards to local students.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation recently announced the 2012 winners of the prestigious $2,500 National Merit Scholarship. A total of six Katy ISD students were named among only 2,500 designees across the nation.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Springer Law Firm welcomes Beth A. Serafini-Smith as its newest associate attorney. Serafini-Smith is an attorney in the Katy area and brings experience in criminal defense and estate planning to the Springer Law Firm. She is a graduate of Purdue University and received her law degree from Valparaiso University, holding licenses in both Texas and Indiana. She resides in Katy with her family and is an active volunteer with the Katy ISD school district. “We are thrilled to have Beth join our team and look forward to the firm expanding,” shares Sarah Springer, principal attorney at the Springer Law Firm.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Gallas Plastic Surgery is pleased to announce the opening of Provincial Park Surgery Center. The Provincial Park Surgery Center is located at 21300 Provincial Blvd. and is unique to Katy. The luxurious, ultra-modern, private surgery center is state licensed and fully equipped to provide a flawless and pleasant outpatient surgical experience for patient and surgeon alike. The team at Gallas Plastic Surgery invites you to call 713-554-6350 for more information. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

|  Email This Post

Record-breaking crowds attended this year’s Nature Fest, held April 28 in Bridgeland, with more than 7,000 people wild to see a 600-pound white tiger, dancing butterflies in giant bubbles, and the community’s new mascot, Bridgeland Bill. The Staples Safari Animal Magic and Primarily Primates shows were popular with crowds, with throngs of children and adults enthralled by the animal antics. Birds of Prey, which has appeared all five years during Nature Fest, is a perennial favorite, and making a repeat appearance this year were The Drum Café and the Crocodile Encounter. New to the event were the Butterfly Spheres from Los Angeles, elaborately costumed dancers who appeared in clear vinyl spheres. Bridgeland also debuted Bridgeland Bill, who posed for pictures and entertained children throughout the day.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Football linebacker Brandon Ebrecht, a senior at Katy High School, recently signed a letter of intent to attend Trinity University and play football in fall 2012. Seated between Brandon are his dad Daryn and mom Robin. Ebrecht was also joined by (back row, from left) defensive back coach Matt McDaniel, linebacker coach Joaquin Garcia, brother Hayden, brother Tanner, athletic coordinator and head football coach Gary Joseph, and Principal Dr. Steve Robertson. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy High School senior Amanda Jones, who serves as defender on the school’s soccer team, recently signed a letter of intent to attend Culver-Stockton College and play soccer in fall of 2012. She was joined at the signing ceremony by (front row) her parents Jeff and Laura, (back row) Ronald Leftwich, assistant athletic coordinator and head girls soccer coach Dianne Loftin, Principal Dr. Steve Robertson, sister Allison, Ashley Fritsche, and athletic coordinator and head football coach Gary Joseph. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Over 250 excited elementary students and their parents recently gathered at Taylor High School to build the Great Wall of China out of Legos at the design date, hosted by Katy Parents of Gifted and Talented (KPGT) and Katy ISD GT. Led by Bricks 4 Kidz, the students tackled the project with gusto. While their wall may not be visible from space, their creation was certainly more colorful than the original.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Meagan Peoples, a students at Miller Career and Technology Center, recently participated in the state mystery basket competition hosted by the Family, Community Career Leaders of America (FCCLA). Peoples, a students at Katy High School, competed against 14 other students from across the state and placed first in the event. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Cinco Ranch High School Bravo Show Choir is gearing up to perform School Daze, celebrating the high school experience. The musical production will feature current hits like “Rumor Has It,” “Anyway You Want It,” and “Mad World,” to name a few. Brazo students have worked hard to produce the show in its entirety, coordinating everything from musical arrangements and set design to choreography.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

For the ninth time in the past 10 years, Katy ISD has been named among the Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation, which recognizes schools and districts across the U.S. for their commitment and support for music education. Katy ISD is one of only 12 districts in Texas to receive this recognition for 2012.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Daisies in Troop 17546 are celebrating an amazing year, with wonderful members, volunteers, and projects. The troop recently attended a Houston Astros baseball game, sold lemonade for Lemonade Day, raised money selling Girl Scout cookies, donated to Katy Christian Ministries and Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP), and attended a University of Houston softball game. The Daisies will bridge to Brownies in May. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Children’s book author Rob Scotton recently visited kindergarten students at Alexander Elementary, sharing his stories with them. Scotton is the author of Splat the Cat and Russell the Sheep. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD Partners in Education recently announced guest speakers for the annual VIPS celebration breakfast on May 1 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Merrell Center. This year’s speakers include TIRR Memorial Hermann music therapist Meagan Morrow; clinical coordinator Dawn Phillips; and speech pathologist Kelley Warren Kirst. Attendees may recognize this trio from features on CNN and ABC’s Diane Sawyer – Special Report, detailing the recovery of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. The celebration breakfast will also include the long-awaited announcement of each campus volunteer of the year and special performances by Katy ISD student groups.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Construction officially got underway on Willowfork Fire Station 2 on Thursday, April 12 with a groundbreaking ceremony. The audience gathered to witness the ceremony included employees and volunteers of the Willowfork Fire Department, friends, and family, as well as some members of the public.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Cinco Ranch High School student Shayla Maldonado recently committed to playing volleyball at Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi after graduation this year. She started playing volleyball here in Katy at the YMCA when she was 8 years old. She continued on to play club volleyball with Katy Volleyball Academy, Southwest Juniors, Kaboom, and Texas Elite. She is a three-time Junior Olympian.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Birthday Book Club members at Odessa Kilpatrick Elementary School recently celebrated their birthdays by donating books to their school library. Pictured are Jerry Kurinsky, Brennan Hart, Melina Crothers, Pranav Rajkumar, and Lenore Hudspeth. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Construction continues on The Plazas at Spring Green, a 20,000-square-foot specialty retail center in Katy. Developer Vista Equities Group (VEG) projects a July completion date for construction and subsequent August openings for retail tenants. The Plazas at Spring Green is currently 80% leased with negotiations underway on an additional 4,270 square feet of center space. Tenants include Natural Pawz, Shipley’s Donuts, Pepperoni’s Pizza, MW Cleaners, Curtain Call, CR Nails, Revolution Eyes, and the offices of Dr. Amy Lueddemann, DDS.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The president of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Dr. Randy O’Rear, has selected Chase Riggs to play Jesus in the school’s 2013 Easter pageant. Each year, Dr. O’Rear chooses an outstanding student for the honor of portraying Jesus. This casting is based less on acting ability than on a strong Christian faith and attitude. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Over 70 Katy residents recently gathered to discuss ways of increasing security in Lake Forest of Kelliwood. The committee’s goal was to get neighbors talking with one another and sharing ideas about how to increase safety, both as individual homeowners and as a community.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Kindergarten students at Exley Elementary School recently participated in an egg drop science experiment. The students dropped their packaged eggs from the roof of the school to see which ones would break. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The eighth-grade 4X400 girls’ relay team from Beck Junior High recently won the district track and field competition, breaking the district record with a time of 4 minutes, 13 seconds. Relay team members include Macey Esser, Nevita George, Sydney Wright, and Tori Boyle. Their coach is Kristi LeCroneir. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Members of Kilpatrick Elementary, along with PTA leaders from across the state, recently gathered for the Texas PTA Convention. Texas PTA President Sharon Goldblatt welcomed local members Cindy Cruz-Davis, Traci Faulk, and Shantania Leggins, along with many other members to the event-filled weekend. Highlights included a founder’s day dinner, featuring keynote speaker and famous dad Ed Smart, and a general meeting dedicated to advocacy with keynote speaker Rep. Donna Howard. The event honored Kilpatrick Elementary and other PTA councils that have maintained a strong campus presence by sustaining and growing membership. Other convention attractions included an exhibit hall, parenting and leader training workshops, and networking activities for all attendees. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

WoodCreek Elementary fifth-grade student council members recently raised over $1,800 for cancer patients through the Pennies for Patients program. Funds raised will go towards continued research and treatment for leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood and soft tissue cancers. The student council is continually inspired by fellow Katy area elementary student
Quonziah Ford (also known as Ziah the Victorious), who is battling rhabdomyosarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The eighth-grade Katy Rebels-D’Addieco basketball team placed second in the opening tournament of the season and qualified for Primetime Nationals in Dallas this summer. Tenacious defense and hustle led the team to the championship game, where they lost in the closing minutes. Congratulations to Allison, LaShanda, Kim, Sydney, Natalia, Alyssa, Emily, Delaney, Tianna, and Anna on a fantastic start to their AAU season together! Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

LifeGift, the local organ and tissue recovery agency which helps people who need transplants, is celebrating April as National Donate Life Month. The month-long celebration honors the generosity of organ, eye, and tissue donors and their families and commemorates all transplant recipients in the U.S., including Katy. Activities in April will focus on encouraging Texans to join the Donate Life Texas Registry as official organ, eye, and tissue donors. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Lauren Redeker, a 2008 graduate of James E. Taylor High School, recently earned the Spring 2012 Always Expect More of Aggies Teacher Award. The award was established by the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture in the College of Education and Human Development at Texas A&M University with the purpose of recognizing outstanding TLAC student teachers who have demonstrated exceptional work ethic and commitment to the teaching profession. Recipients are recognized by the department and receive a certificate and a $200 scholarship award. Nominated by her university supervisor and cooperating teacher, Redeker received the award for her exceptional effort and dedication during student teaching in initiative, organization, professional integrity, and dedication. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Outbacker of the Month is the most prestigious award earned at Kilpatrick Elementary. Kilpatrick Outbackers exhibit “Koalaty” character continuously. Outbackers are those that always lend a helping hand, always have a smile on their face, serve as role models, and go above and beyond to make OKE the exemplary school that it is. One student from each grade level, staff member, volunteer, and partner in education is chosen every month to be Outbacker of the Month. Those honored with the title for month of March include volunteer Scott Griebe, students Nauman Shaikh, Ethan Jasman, Kaitlyn Lau, Induja Gautman, Ardyn Buchanan, and Mackenzie Fernandez, and fifth-grade teacher Amy Pinkerton. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Beckendorff Junior High School choirs recently journeyed to Dallas, participating in two performances with national organizations. The mixed varsity choir performed during the Middle School/Junior High National Choral Music Conference at the Booker T. Washington School for the Performing Arts. The varsity girls concert choir performed for the American Choral Directors Association, Southwest Division at Meyerson Symphony Hall. Congratulations to BDJH choir students who participated! Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Kilpatrick Elementary School student Nicki Baney was recently recognized at the Youth Art Month Capitol Exhibit in Austin. Her painting, “The Prickly Pear” was selected for the exhibit at the State Capitol building. Nicki was recognized at a ceremony celebrating Youth Art Month at the Capitol. Nicki is pictured here with her painting and her art teacher Stephanie Aromy. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy piano students Lindsay Chu and Lexie Kwon were recently selected to perform in the Katy Music Teachers Association spring festival honor’s recital at Houston Community College. Chu and Kwon are both students of piano teacher Mary Ann LaCour. Chu is the daughter of Eduardo Chu and Cecilia Sui-Chu, and Kwon is the daughter of Vincent and Victoria Kwon, all of Katy. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Cinco Ranch Ice Cougars hockey team recently skated home with a third-place trophy in the Texas Cup State Championship Silver Division, held in Dallas. The win topped off another stellar season for this high school hockey team. The Ice Cougars ended their regular season in first place in the Interscholastic Hockey League with some impressive statistics, including 19 wins, two losses, and one tie. The Ice Cougars took on hockey teams from Houston, Dallas, and Austin at the state championship.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Third-grade students at Kilpatrick Elementary recently made volcanoes during the parent-led Eureka science program. The students were introduced to the concept of plate tectonics and how they are the underlying cause of the three major forces that change the face of the Earth (earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes). They learned how these forces both destroy and create the earth. The best part was watching their volcanoes erupt lots of oozing “lava.” Students pictured include Christian McCool, Kyle Wagner, Ajay Tandon, Grant Hightower, Zachary Webb, and Sarah Grindal. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

National Merit Scholarship Corporation officials recently announced approximately 800 outstanding black American high school seniors who have won Achievement Scholarship Awards through the National Achievement Scholarship Program. These awards, totaling over $2 million, are being financed by grants from 29 corporate organizations and professional associations. Katy ISD had two winners of this prestigious scholarship: Toluwani Alimi and Olamide Omidele, both from Seven Lakes High School.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Members of the Seven Lakes Orchestra Parent Association (SLOPA) recently participated in the annual KVPAC Arts for All Family Festival at La Centerra, earning the best booth award. The booth displayed the art instruments for their annual Music to the Eyes raffle, provided an instrument “petting zoo” where children could try out a violin, and featured live serenades performed by SLHS orchestra ensembles throughout the day. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Second-graders at Franz Elementary recently studied the history of the City of Katy. To conclude their studies, fourth-generation Katy resident Rosanne Stockdick Lopez, presented a slide show full of historical pictures and stories about Katy in its beginnings. Stockdick Lopez’s great grandfather was Adam H. Stockdick, Katy’s first landman who helped bring many families to settle the area. Pictured are second-grade students displaying fact sheets about Katy or a copy of Adam H. Stockdick’s teaching certificate from 1886, including (front row, from left) Mahin Khasru, Bailey Dobbs, Hailea Middleton, Moses Salazar, (back row, from left) Lizette Garcia, teacher Alice Dobbs, Rosanne Stockdick Lopez, and Franchesca Vasquez. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital encourages the Katy community to learn more about the preventable disease.Van-Hien Tran, MD, FACS, and a board certified general surgeon at CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital, shares tips for preventing the disease, as well as risk factors and types of screenings available to Katy patients. Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer, as well as the third leading cancer killer of both men and women in the U.S. While this cancer can affect anyone, between 35% and 40% more instances and deaths are seen in men than women. Two of the leading risk factors in the development of the cancer are increasing age and a family history of colorectal cancer. Other factors that could contribute to the likelihood of developing this cancer are lack of physical activity, obesity, alcohol and tobacco use, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Katy Music Teachers Association recently held its annual spring festival, with 210 piano students participating in the event. Students performed for a judge, who gave them a rating between one and four. Students who earned a one or two received blue and red ribbons, respectively, and all students earned a certificate.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Morton Ranch High School Maverick Belle Dance Team recently earned two National Champion titles. The team placed first in the medium ensemble division and tied with Oak Ridge High School for first place in the large ensemble division. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Cinco Ranch High School recently hosted a Hunger Games food drive to support Katy Christian Ministries, with students collecting over 1,200 non-perishable items to donate to those in need. With every donation, students had the chance to win books, movie tickets, T-shirts, and posters from the popular Hunger Games series by author Suzanne Collins. The experience was a great way for students to learn the value of giving back and see that hunger is no game. Please mention you found this onwww.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Morton Ranch High School girls’ varsity bowling team recently competed in the state championship in Euless, after placing second at the regional competition and second at the district level. The team entered the state finals ranked 18 out of 36 teams and advanced to the quarterfinals, beating out 31 teams and placing fifth in the state. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The interior of Living Word Lutheran Church in Katy was recently transformed for a dedication ceremony and blessing of quilts and kits for Lutheran World Relief. Hand-tied quilts decorated all the pews. Baby care kits filled with baby clothes, diapers, and blankets were on display, in addition to 100 red backpacks filled with school supplies. Volunteers of all ages joined the fun after the service as they packed the quilts and kits into boxes to be delivered to the warehouse in Baltimore, MD. From there, they will be distributed to people in need who are located in areas of natural disaster or countries recovering from war. The quilts are used as wall dividers in refugee camps, mattresses and blankets to keep bodies warm, or just for comfort when someone is feeling alone.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The seventh-grade girls’ C basketball team at Cinco Ranch Junior High recently celebrated winning the district championship for the current season. The team was coached by JJ Haynie, and the girls finished the season with a record of 8-1. All of the team members were newbies to the sport this year, making their achievement that much greater. Team members include (back row, from left) Mackenzie Beard, Dana Pollack, Erin Spicer, Coach Haynie, Jasmine Rivera, Karla de la Luz, Jamie Shuerg, (front row, from left) Natalie Hagan, Megan Esch, Terra Kubala, Jean Blackwell, Paola Alcantara, and (not pictured) Sarah Foreman. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

|  Email This Post

Students at Sundown Elementary are getting ready to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the school’s opening! The celebration will be held on April 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Sundown gym. Shown in their celebration shirts are (from left) Cadin Gillingwater, Alicia De La Torre, Jaclyn Pulido, Anali Perez, Alex Matovich, and Sophia Phillips. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

More than 1,300 gifted students from every Katy ISD elementary campus recently visited the Katy Outdoor Learning Center over a two-week period to spend a day being archeologists. In budget-conscious times, Katy ISD and Katy Parents of Gifted and Talented (KPGT) joined forces to create a fantastic opportunity to put months of classroom research into practice. Specially prepared archeological pits were an unending source of fascinating artifacts leading students to hypothesize why bones, beads, arrow heads, and other items may be discovered. Energetic geocaching scavenger hunts through the woodlands introduced how archeologists use new technology. Archeology experts volunteered their time and knowledge to take students around the world on a virtual tour of ancient civilizations.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Beck Tech robotics team from Beck Junior High recently won the research award in the First Lego League competition, with the support of science teacher Joe Mikulas. Team members include (pictured, from left) Ryan Reese, Aditya Sudhakar, Jason Shenoi, William Ding, Michael Tian, Pranay Anand, and Oren Shed. Also shown are students Ryan and Aditya holding their team’s award. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

|  Email This Post

Taylor Power, a junior at Seven Lakes High School, was recently named the Reserve Grand Champion in this year’s Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Art Contest. Her colored pencil drawing titled, “Sergeant in Charge,” brought a new world record at $175,000 for this year’s HLS&R Education Fund. Buyers were Ken and Mary Hucherson; Terry and Kelly Pruitt; Jerrol and Pam Springer; and Kent and Betty Wiseman. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Bradley Edward Learned, a senior at Cinco Ranch High School in Katy, recently earned an appointment to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY last week. Learned is the son of Albert and Mary Ann Learned. He is a member of the National Honor Society, plays varsity soccer, performs community services at Katy Christian Ministries, and has served as a referee for the Katy Youth Soccer Association. He also maintains a high grade point average in all classes, which are primarily AP or Pre-AP level, while also working a part-time job as a veterinarian technician. Learned was nominated for the appointment by U.S. Ron Paul. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Debbie Stoddard, executive director of the Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston, recently visited with students in grades six through 12 at Faith West Academy (FWA). Each student was challenged by their school chaplain to help raise $20 to donate to the center. At the end of their fundraising event, FWA raised and donated $1,500, in addition to a new play pen filled with diapers.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy student, Kunal Budhiraja, an eighth-grader at Beck Junior High, was recently named a semifinalist eligible to compete in the upcoming Texas National Geographic Bee in Bedford on March 30. Preliminary bees were held at individual campuses, with each winner then taking a qualifying test, which was submitted to the National Geographic Society. In each of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Department of Defense Dependents schools, and U.S. territories, the National Geographic Society invited students with the top 100 scores to compete at the state level.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy area preschoolers recently laced up their dancing shoes for Texas Children’s Hospital and stepped up the fight against childhood obesity, one dance at a time. Five local Primrose Schools (North Mason Creek, Cinco Ranch, Eldridge Parkway, Kelliwood, and Copperfield) hosted a Healthy Hearts Hoedown to encourage the community to get moving for healthy lifestyles and enter the Primrose Schools Family Dance-off (www.familydanceoff.com) to win as much as $30,000 for the hospital.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Katy ISD School Naming Committee recently announced the proposed names for the four new schools opening in the fall of 2012. A public forum will take place on Tuesday, March 20 from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Katy ISD ESC 1200 rooms, located at 6301 South Stadium Ln. Community members are invited to participate in this forum and provide input regarding the proposed names. After the forum, the Katy ISD School Naming Committee will review input and provide their recommendation to the Katy ISD Board of Trustees at their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, March 26.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

It was full steam ahead for the Firethorne Stampede auction team, which purchased 17 animals at the recent Katy ISD FFA Livestock Show and Auction. The team had the winning bid on the Grand Champion Goat, Grand Showman Goat, and Grand Showman Pig. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus recently hosted the Lambda Tau chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International for their monthly meeting. Delta Kappa Gamma is an honorary society for key women educators. It promotes professional and personal growth of its members and excellence in education.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

On Feb. 18, 50 family members with new babies celebrated the one-year reunion and anniversary of the Katy Birth Center in the heart of Katy at 1002 Avenue A. Despite cold and rainy weather, there was fun for all with games, an inflatable bounce house, healthy snacks, and a birthday cake.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at Stanley Elementary have been learning the value of giving back to others through their campus newspaper, The Tumbleweed Times. The publication’s Get Involved section recently featured donating to the Katy Christian Ministries Food Bank, and SES students went above and beyond collecting necessary supplies for their fellow Katyites. Two cars were filled with donations, with over 1,500 items delivered to the food bank. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

It is spring break time, and many Katy ISD families have plans to hit the road for fun activities throughout the next week. Before starting vacation, the Katy ISD office of emergency management reminds families to be safe by planning ahead and taking necessary precautions. Katy ISD’s spring break is March 12 to 16.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

Girl Scout troops in the Silver Spur unit of Katy recently celebrated Girl Scout World Thinking Day, with a theme of, “we can save our planet.” Girls from Cadette Troop 17081 showcased Scotland, displaying the country’s dance costumes, food, history, and photos of the countryside. They also gave samples of Scottish shortbread to booth visitors and performed the Highland Fling accompanied by the bagpipes. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The team from Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital recently won first place in the commercial division for their float in the Katy FFA Rodeo Parade. Float participants included Debbie and Steve Harrison, Elizabeth Henley, Beebe and Marty Flugge, Jennifer Rovell, Tammy Paine, Brandon and Tyler Paine, Jackson Warren, Raylene Cotter, Rachel and Britteny Cotter, Mary Gilbert, Elizabeth, Sarah, Alyssa Gilbert, Rebecca Holt, Jillian and Bridget Holt, Violeta Quilantan, Daisy Quilantan, and Juila Quilantan, Laura Spiteri, Brandon, Courtney, and Caitlyn Spiteri, Veronica and Jr. Buentello, Eydan and Evan Buentello, Janet Murphy, and Karlea and Caleb Murphy. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Lone Star Symphonic Band, based in the west Houston/Katy area, recently hosted a fundraising spaghetti dinner and silent auction, with proceeds going towards several large-scale percussion instruments. Katy City Councilwoman Carol Adams served as the keynote speaker, sharing about the importance of arts in the community. The dinner also included performances by the Lone Star Dixieland Band and the Lone Star Symphonic Band Clarinet Ensemble and a silent auction. The band performs several community concerts throughout the year at CrossPoint Community Church. To learn more, visit lonestarsymphonicband.com. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans recently sponsored a potluck dinner for seniors at Living Word Lutheran Church in Katy. The club is for members over the age of 50 and meets monthly for social events and trips to local areas of interest. A trip to visit the AD Players’ presentation of The Beams Are Creaking and dinner is planned for Sunday, May 20 at 1:30 pm. For more information, contact Barbara Stuckey at 281-829-0655. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Rhoads Elementary School students in the Read, Deed, Run program recently delivered hand-crocheted fleece hats and birthday cards for the children at Texas Children’s Hospital.  Read, Deed, and Run is a program where students in grades three through five read 26 books, do 26 good deeds, and run 26 miles over the course of the school year. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Second-graders at Williams Elementary School recently welcomed mothers and special friends to the annual Sweetheart Tea. The students politely welcomed their guests and served teatime treats. They shared songs, poems, and specially made projects honoring their sweethearts. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at Griffin Elementary School recently raised over $36,000 for the American Heart Association during a Jump Rope for Heart event. For two days, PE classes were filled with students leaping around an array of jump rope activities. Then they replenished their energy levels with healthy snacks supplied by the PTA. “I’m very proud of our Griffin Grizzlies,” shares PE teacher Sean O’Connor. “The kids got really excited about jumping rope, but even more excited about the chance to help save lives. Their efforts resulted in over $36,000 being raised for the American Heart Association!” Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Taylor High School swim team recently celebrated the end of a very successful season. At the state swimming meet in February, David Harlan placed fifth in the 200 freestyle and ninth in the 100 freestyle. Hanna Huston placed ninth in the 500 freestyle and 13th in the 200 freestyle. The boys’ 400 freestyle relay placed 10th overall. Additionally, many student athletes placed at the regional competition held earlier in the year and swim team coach Matt Apple was named district coach of the year and regional coach of the year. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Kindergarten through second-grade students at Aristoi Classical Academy recently celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday by dressing like their favorite Dr. Seuss characters. The day was a great way to honor the beloved children’s book author, while encouraging students to continue the adventure of reading. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

McDonald Junior High recently celebrated February as Black History Month with a campus-wide event featuring inspirational guest speakers and student performances. Many community leaders attended the event, including MDHS Principal Dr. Kenneth Cummings, MDJH black history committee members Karla Beeek and Lisa Brooks, KIAH-TV weekday anchor and guest speaker Mia Gradney, Katy ISD campus namesake and former principal Roosevelt Alexander, and MDJH black history committee members Debra Patrick and Jessica Anderson. Please mention you found this onwww.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Griffin Elementary Fishing Club recently won first place in the schools division for their Dr. Seuss-themed float, named One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Catfish, at the Katy ISD FFA Rodeo parade. The parade also paid homage to the children’s book author, with a theme of “oh, the places you will go.” Students were decked out in the iconic tall striped hats and colorful face paint found in Dr. Seuss books, while teachers added to the crowd-pleasing antics with decorations and costumes. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Arbor Day Foundation recently named the City of Katy a Tree City USA community for its commitment to urban forestry. The designation is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service and requires cities to meet four standards, including: having a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, a community forestry program with annual expenditures of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. To learn more, visit arborday.org/treecityusa. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

|  Email This Post

Odessa Kilpatrick Elementary recently honored Blanche Wriborg as the campus teacher of the year. Wriborg has been teaching for 18 years and has taught at OKE for the past five years. She has an unwavering positive outlook, works to inspire students, and is a great mentor to student teachers. Wriborg (front row, left) was joined by Principal Malynn Rodriguez (front row, right), who presented her with the award, as well as (back row, from left) her husband Larry and sons Luke and Larry. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Taylor High School Student Council recently received the Youth in Philanthropy award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals. The group was recognized for hosting its annual big feast event, which allowed students to give over 200 families a Thanksgiving meal. Other student council projects spotlighted include the group’s wildfire victim relief efforts, known as Taylor United, where students raised over $5,000 for the victims; giving back through Santa Cops; and volunteering during Students Performing Unselfish Deeds (SPUD) week. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Cinco Ranch High School senior Johnathan R. Leyba was recently invited to attend a dinner at the Taste of Texas, with U.S. Naval Academy Dean of Admissions Capt. (Ret.) Stephen “Bruce” Latta. After dinner and several Naval Academy alumni speakers, Dean Latta presented Leyba with an official letter of appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. Leyba will begin his studies at the Academy in late June.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

McMeans Junior High School recently hosted a reception honoring Dr. Susan Rice for 10 years of service as campus principal. Teachers, staff members, PTA members, and her family surprised her with cake and punch. Rice (pictured, second from left) was joined at the event by Assistant Principals David Paz, Melanie Thomas, and Gary McHatton. Please mention you found this onwww.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

During a recent work study meeting, Katy ISD Superintendent Alton Frailey announced the reassignment of Debbie Decker as the executive director of athletics for Katy ISD.  Decker has been serving as interim executive director of athletics since the retirement of Rusty Dowling in January 2012.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated its annual gala, A Tribute to Katy on Feb. 17 with a record crowd. The event was chaired by Lori Gunn and held in the Safari Texas Ranch Ballroom. The elegant evening included dinner, as well as commemorative portraits for guests and entertainment and dancing by the Password.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

One week after the Katy Elks Lodge hosted Hoop Shoot, an annual free throw competition, two of the six winners who advanced to the district level are now on their way to compete at the state level.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

The National League of Junior Cotillions (NLJC) has recently completed its seventh season in Katy. The program, which features character education, etiquette, and social dance training for sixth- through eighth-grade students, includes five classes, a Fall Ball, and a five-course instructional dinner  over a seven-month period.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The Beckendorff Junior High Symphony Orchestra recently received an invitation to perform at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago, IL, won Texas State Honor Orchestra at the junior high level, and performed at the Texas Music Educators Association convention in San Antonio.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy Junior High School recently named Malinda Breen as Teacher of the Year and Dawn Hensley as Paraprofessional of the Year. Breen teaches eighth-grade science and is currently the science department chair. Hensley has worked for Katy ISD for eight years and is the school’s secretary. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

A retirement reception was held recently at McMeans Junior High School for custodian Jose Pena. His career with the Katy Independent School District spanned more than 15 years, and many friends, family members, and coworkers celebrated his retirements. Pictured are (from left) Susie Fonseca, Geronima Medina, Jose Pena, Yolaisy Gutierrez, Juan Reyez, and Paula Maldonado. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Author Kate Klise recently hosted a writing workshop at Pattison Elementary School. During her visit she encouraged and motivated students in their writing and shared her top 10 tips of things they can do to become better writers. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Elizabeth Basler of Houston was recently selected to participate in the 2012 Miss Teen Houston pageant competition on March 4. Basler will compete in the Miss Teen division for her share of thousands of dollars in prizes and specialty gifts. As part of the pageant, she will compete in casual wear, formal wear, and an interview. If Elizabeth were to win the title of Miss Teen Houston, she would represent Houston and the surrounding communities at the national competition in Orlando, FL. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Kilpatrick Koalas recently celebrated Australia Day. Students in Ms. Snow’s kindergarten class had fun decorating their own koala ears and wearing them in the Outback, while learning about Australia’s unique culture and history. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital recently hosted its annual Physician and Employee of the Year Reception. Affiliated physicians and staff nominated a handful of physicians and employees for the award. The winners are as follows: 2011 Memorial Hermann Katy Employee of the Year is Molly Stanbery and 2011 Memorial Hermann Katy Physician of the Year is Buckminster Farrow, M.D. Congratulations to Stanbery and Dr. Farrow, as well as all the nominees for this prestigious award. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at Creech Elementary School recently enjoyed a cultural arts performance by the Asian American dance group of Young Audiences of Houston. Pictured are CES Principal Elena Thrun (center) and students (from left) Cameron Harper, Molly Chandler, Sofia Pham, and Chloe Jabel with dance group members who visited the campus. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

For its efforts to reduce the incidence of healthcare-acquired infections across its 12 hospitals, Memorial Hermann Healthcare System has been honored with the Texas Hospital Association’s 2011 Bill Aston Award for Quality in the Academic Large Teaching Hospital category. Established in 2010, the award recognizes a hospital’s measurable success in improving quality and patient outcomes through the sustained implementation of a national and/or state evidence-based patient care initiative.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

McMeans Junior High School theater students recently performed Saga of the Golden Horseshoe, an old west melodrama, under the direction of Ann Batten-Bishop. Pictured are (from left) Zachary Baker, Emily Kimmich, Jack Gammack, Tennille Faber, and Kiara Stewart. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Golbow Elementary School was recently awarded $5,000 by Safe Kids Worldwide, with Sesame Street’s Grover, members of Safe Kids Greater Houston, and volunteers from FedEx Express attending the ceremony. In October 2011, Safe Kids hosted a photo contest on Facebook for schools that participated in Walk to School Day, an annual day dedicated to raising awareness about pedestrian safety. Schools that held Walk to School Day events were eligible to win a $5,000 prize and a visit from Grover as part of the Safe Kids Walk This Way program. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Members of the Civil Air Patrol recently staged a search-and-rescue exercise training program at West Houston Airport. The training session was hosted by the Thunderbird Composite Squadron, which has cutting edge communications equipment ready to put into use in the event of a local disaster. Approximately 50 members attended the event, sharpening their skills and flying a total of six aircraft. All of the activities practiced were based on FEMA directives and procedures. Civil Air Patrol is an auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, which regularly participates in search-and-rescue missions nationwide. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

The author and illustrator of Fancy Nancy, one of the most popular children’s picture book series, recently visited Stan C. Stanley Elementary School. Students in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade met author Jane O’Connor and illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser. The Fancy Nancy book series is based on a little girl named Nancy, who believes that more is always better when it comes to being fancy. The talented duo of O’Connor and Glasser have written and illustrated numerous best-selling books. This author visit was made possible by Blue Willow Bookshops. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Cinco Ranch High School graduate Kate Murphy recently competed on the Texas Tech School of Law’s mock trial advocacy team in the American Bar Association’s National Arbitration Competition in Chicago. Murphy’s team took top honors, winning the competition. The team is coached by Shery Kime-Goodwin and includes team members Murphy, Wade Iverson, Jared Mullowney, and Meredith Mills. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Beckendorff Junior High School recently announced it will host the Katy Regional Science Olympiad Tournament on March 3, welcoming over 1,000 junior high and high school students from all over Texas.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus recently announced the expansion of outpatient services to include a new Sports Medicine Program dedicated to treating children for all types of sports-related injuries.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Faith West Academy Varsity Cheerleaders recently attended the Fellowship of Christian Cheerleaders National Championships in Orlando, FL. Competing with teams from across the country, they earned fourth place in their division in the finals. In addition to competing and cheering at team events and pep rallies, cheerleaders also volunteer many hours serving the Katy community. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

|  Email This Post

Many families in Bastrop, Waller, Montgomery, and Grimes counties are still struggling after losing their homes to last year’s devastating wildfires. While it will take months and even years to fully recover, the students and staff at Katy Elementary have stepped up to help.
(more…)

|  Email This Post

McMeans Jr. High students involved in the No Place for Hate program recently participated in National No Name Calling Week by making posters for the hallways. The group also designed their T-shirts. All students were given pledge cards for the week and earned rewards for upholding the pledge all week long. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

American Legion Post 164 of Katy recently presented Katy Elks Lodge #2628 with a new POW/MIA flag to fly from their flag pole. The Elks Lodge, which generously donates meeting space to the American Legion for their monthly meetings, has formed an alliance of sorts with Post 164. They participate together in patriotic events in the community, such as the Katy Elks Flag Day Ceremony and Veterans Day ceremonies at the Oaks of Brookshire Nursing Home. “It’s just a small token of appreciation toward the Katy Elks Lodge 2628 that we donate this flag,” says financial officer Wallace Klekar. Commander Cormier of Post 164 presented the flag to Ron Gaul, Exalted Ruler of Katy Elks Lodge 2628. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Faith West Academy softball pitcher Valerie Shearer recently signed a national letter of intent to play for Johnson County Community College’s women’s softball team. Shearer was was named to the All-District team from 2007 to 2011 and the Academic All-State team, received an honorable mention at the All-State for 3-A TAPPS competition, and was named team captain in 2011. In the summer months she plays for Envy Gold, a select team in Waller. After six years of pitching, she has developed a screwball that will hit 57 miles per hour and a change-up at 38 miles per hour that keeps a low ERA.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Six Cinco Ranch High School choir students, along with two alternates, recently advanced through the rigorous selection process to receive placement in the prestigious All-State Choir, earning the opportunity to perform at the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Convention in San Antonio in February. Directors Dorothy Wilson and David Lee are proud of these hard-working, talented students, as well as all of the other students who advanced through various stages of the process. Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

(more…)

|  Email This Post

Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related disease and death among women worldwide. However, the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths has decreased significantly. This decline largely is the result of many women getting regular Pap tests, which can detect cervical precancerous cells before they turn into cancer. According to the American Cancer Society’s most recent statistics, about 12,710 new cases of invasive cervical cancer will be diagnosed and about 4,290 women will die from cervical cancer. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Katyite Robert McArthur signed his letter of intent with MAC College Cardinals on Sunday, Jan. 15. McArthur currently plays select ball for the Texas Twins, a team based out of Katy High School and Foster High School in Richmond.  (more…)

|  Email This Post

Painting with a Twist studios located in Cypress, Katy and Sugar Land, Texas will welcome guests on Sunday, February 19th 2-5PM at a special Painting with a Purpose paint class to raise funds for breast cancer research. The studio will offer refreshments and a give-away during the paint pARTy.  The fundraiser will benefit Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Junior high youth and volunteers held a packing session at Living Word Lutheran Church to assemble 100 Newborn Kits. The kits consist of items used by a midwife to bathe and clothe a baby born under primitive conditions. They were shipped to the Global Health Ministries warehouse and will be delivered to The Emmanuel Clinic in a sister synod in the Central African Republic. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Members of the junior high youth group at Living Word Lutheran Church are learning to tie knots in baby quilts. The quilts were assembled by the Piecemakers quilting group, and the teens have been recruited to tie the knots to complete the quilts. Baby care kits will then be filled with quilts, baby clothes, and diapers, and sent to the Lutheran World Relief warehouse. (more…)

|  Email This Post

David Bjerkaas recently achieved his Eagle Scout rank, the highest rank in Boy Scouting.  Bjerkaas is a member of Boy Scout Troop 584 in Katy, which is sponsored by the Fellowship of Cinco Ranch. (more…)

|  Email This Post

JG Entertainment is excited to announce the CD release party and red carpet event for Katy native Macy Medford’s debut album, Crazy ‘Bout You, on Saturday, Jan. 28. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Star of Destiny Chapter, NSDAR, recently named Kelley Kerlick, a seventh grade Texas history and eighth grade U.S. history teacher at Cinco Ranch Junior High, Outstanding Teacher of American History. Seven Lakes High School senior Phillip Powell received the Certificate of Appreciation for his American flag service. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Members of the McMeans Junior High School choir recently performed at a Houston Rockets basketball game. Students treated Rockets fans to a beautiful version of “The National Anthem” to kick off the game. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD will hold a hearing for public discussion of the 2010-11 Academic Excellence Indicator System (AEIS) annual report released by the Texas Education Agency.  The joint public hearing for the Board of Trustees and Katy Improvement Council will take place at approximately 6:45 p.m., Monday, January 23, in the board room at the Katy ISD Education Support Complex located at 6301 S. Stadium Lane.  Annual AEIS reports provide information on student/school performance, as well as information about staff, district finances and programs for the 2010-2011. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD joins districts across the state to thank its Board of Trustees for voluntarily tackling the enormous job of governing local school districts. January has been proclaimed School Board Recognition Month by the Governor, to help highlight the contributions of dedicated men and women who take the time to care about our local schools. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union (BVSCU) has committed to supporting Katy ISD students by becoming a 2012 KEYS Scholarship Platinum Sponsor.  As a KEYS sponsor, BVSCU is helping to create scholarships for students who have participated in KEYS through their senior year.  One-hundred percent of their contribution will go directly to KEYS Scholarships. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD Superintendent Alton Frailey announced principal reassignments during the December Board of Trustees work study meeting. These reassignments come in preparation for four new campuses that will open in fall 2012. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Students who have not received a high school diploma because they did not meet the passing standard on sections of the Exit Level Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) will have the opportunity to retake the necessary subject area tests in March 2012. The TAAS test is no longer being offered; however, individuals eligible to take TAAS will take Exit Level ELA and/or Mathematics, and the TAKS scores will be matched to the appropriate TAAS passing standard. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Texas Comptroller’s Office recently awarded the GOLD Leadership Circle Award to Katy ISD for the second consecutive year, recognizing the district’s transparency in financial reporting.  Katy ISD scored a total of 18 out of 20 possible points on the 2011 ratings criteria. This award is valid for one year and will be added to the district’s listing on the Texas Transparency website. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD’s Diane Winborn Elementary is among 13 public schools in Texas to receive the “High Performing Schools” nomination for the 2012 National Blue Ribbon Schools recognition.  A total of 26 Texas public school nominees were announced by Texas Education Commissioner Robert Scott this week.  These schools serve as models of best practices for schools across the state. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Nine students from the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science at the University of North Texas, including Adam Su of Katy, have been named semifinalists in the prestigious Intel Science Talent Search. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Lone Star Symphonic Band, based in the West Houston/Katy area, is hosting a Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction as a fundraiser to acquire several large scale percussion instruments.   This special event is open to the public, with tickets available on the Band’s website, lonestarsymphonicband.com, for $25 each.  The dinner will be held at Westland Baptist Church, 1407 W. Grand Pkwy., on Saturday, Feb.4at 7 p.m. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Nick Christoffersen has earned his Eagle Scout Award, the highest achievement in Boy Scouting.  Nick is a scout in Katy’s Boy Scout Troop 557 of the Texas Skies District.  He has been involved in scouting for 11 years.  He began as a Tiger Cub in the 1st grade.  Nick has attended National Youth Leadership training in 2007 and again in 2010 as a staff member.  He has taken on many leadership roles over the years including Den Chief of pack 557 and assistant patrol leader of Troop 557.  He has sealed his membership in the Order of the Arrow with his brotherhood. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at Memorial Parkway Elementary School recently enjoyed a visit from Author/Illustrator Woody Kuon who has published more than 80 books. Students enjoyed watching Kuon use his artistic talent to turn their teachers into book characters. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Students in the Seven Lakes High School fashion design classes put their skills to good use recently. Students were assigned to create lap quilts for a class project and donated eight completed quilts to Texas Children’s Hospital’s West Campus in Katy. Teacher Kathy Bassila plans to continue the project with future classes. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Outbacker of the Month is the most prestigious award earned at Kilpatrick Elementary. Kilpatrick Outbackers exhibit “Koalaty” character continuously. Outbackers are those that always lend a helping hand, always have a smile on their face, serve as role models, and go above and beyond to make OKE the exemplary school that it is. One student, staff member, volunteer, and Partner in Education is chosen every month to be “Outbacker of the Month.” (more…)

|  Email This Post

Energy Corridor Vacancy Rate at 13% in 3rd Quarter, New Office Buildings Being Planned
With BP North America leasing 300,000+ sq. ft. at Three Eldridge Place in the Energy Corridor, some developers are developing plans to construct new Class A office buildings in the Energy Corridor including Lincoln Property Company. Lincoln owns Energy Crossing, which is located at Highway 6 and I-10. Their plans are to construct a 240,000 sq. ft. Class A office building next to the existing 190,000 sq. ft. building. Lincoln intends to break ground when they secure a major tenant. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Katy Area Economic Development Council, Inc. is ready for a slight change of scenery within Katy. Katy Area EDC has signed a new lease with the Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union (BVSCU), and will be relocating to a new 3,000-sq. ft. suite in the BVSCU building located at 438 FM 1463 in Katy. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Cotton Companies co-owners Pete Bell and Daryn Ebrecht recently presented their consolidation and expansion plans at the October EDC General Assembly Meeting. Both owners are Katy natives and detailed their plan to move all their operations from Houston to the 33-acre Katy headquarters and charitable foundation campus located at the Katy Hockley cut-off road. (more…)

|  Email This Post

TISA, an Argentine software engineering company, has signed a lease to move into office space at 16360 Park Ten Pl., which is located in the Energy Corridor and Katy area according to the Katy Economic Development Council. TISA provides expertise for construction of applications and products from its locations in Buenos Aires, Argentina as well as the Houston area. TISA’s project expertise includes main programming languages, development frameworks, mobile platforms, databases, analysis methodologies, and other technologies and tools. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Commissioner Steve Radack’s new senior center, The Thomas A. Glazier Senior Education Center at 16600 Pine Forest Ln. near Hwy. 6 and Clay Rd., is seeking volunteers to teach basic computer skills to local seniors. Seniors age 55 and better are able to take free computer classes, Internet safety and email classes, and enjoy free lectures such as “Wills and Probate”, “Brain Growth and Repair”, and much more. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Cinco Ranch High School Robotics Team 624 “CRyptonite” is pleased to report the successful completion of their inaugural FIRST LEGO League (FLL^®) robotics tournament.  Twenty-four teams from all over the Houston metro area competed in the tournament.  FLL teams of six to 10 students from fourth to eighth grade work alongside adult mentors to design, build, and program autonomous robots using LEGO MINDSTORMS^® NXT technologies, and create an innovative solution to a problem as part of a research project.  This year’s competition is the FOOD FACTOR^™ Challenge. Can FIRST LEGO League teams improve the quality of food by finding ways to prevent food contamination?  (more…)

|  Email This Post

The combined choirs of Epiphany Catholic Church and the Katy Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints presented their annual Christmas concert on Sunday, Dec. 11 at Epiphany Catholic Church. This marked the 18^th annual Christmas combined concert. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Answering the demand for additional corporate hangar space, Houston Executive Airport (KTME), located west of Katy in Brookshire, announced the opening of another 12,000 square-foot hangar. This will bring the airport’s hangar lease space to over 102,000 square feet. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at the Cinco Ranch Conservatory of Music recently performed holiday recitals for their friends and family. Students at Cinco Ranch Conservatory of Music take private lessons to learn a wide variety of instruments including piano, guitar, violin, percussion, and more. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Houston based developer Vista Equities Group (VEG) welcomes Peloton Computer Enterprises, Inc. to LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch in Katy. The global drilling and well data software company has leased 10,800 square feet of office space for its new Houston headquarters. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Stephens Elementary fifth grade student council recently completed a warm clothing drive. The 12-member Council organized the drive, distributed flyers throughout the school, and collected the items over a period of two weeks. Almost 400 items of warm winter clothing were collected and distributed through the Salvation Army, including blankets, coats,  gloves, and hats. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Construction is continuing on a new portion of the Grand Parkway that stretches from Interstate 10 north to U.S. 290. The 15.2-mile segment, which is expected to open in late 2013, will be a major thoroughfare through the 11,400-acre Bridgeland community. Work crews began construction on the four-lane toll road in September. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Kilpatrick Elementary recently celebrated spelling bee winners following its annual school-wide spelling bee, open to fourth and fifth grade students. Nineteen students qualified for the bee, and Sid Puranik was crowned the champion after spelling the word “battalion”. Kalyanee Nanaware was named first runner up.  Puranik will participate in the district-wide spelling bee in February.   We are proud of all of the students that participated. (more…)

|  Email This Post

WoodCreek Junior High seventh grade cheerleaders held a week-long DVD drive benefitting Texas Children’s Hospital in Katy.  They collected 380 DVDs from staff, students, and the community to donate to the hospital for use in their media and chemo rooms. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Ten Cinco Ranch High School students, and two alternates, recently advanced through the rigorous selection process and were selected as Area Candidates for the TMEA All-State Choir. They will compete in the Area F Area Audition on Jan. 7, 2012 at Deer Park High School. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Members of Studio VII at Seven Lakes High School recently competed at the Texas Thespian Convention, held in Houston.  Keeping with their award winning tradition, Studio VII students proudly produced several outstanding performances. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Members of the Mayde Creek High School National Honor Society recently held a book drive to collect fiction and non-fiction books for the Jamali English School in Nagpur, India. The books were collected during lunch at the school. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Scott Bissell has been named as Compassion Katy’s 2011 Volunteer of the year. Bissell has been active with Compassion Katy for more than five years, leading many projects, and is a huge asset to the organization’s annual Katy ServeFest. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at Taylor High School participated in a city-wide pajama day on Dec. 9 to raise money for Easter Seals, an organization dedicated to assisting children and adults with autism and other disabilities and special needs. Students could either donate a pair of pajamas or pay $5 to wear their own, with all donations going to Easter Seals Greater Houston. Students raised approximately $1,500. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The James E. Taylor swimming and diving team recently participated in the Texas Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association Gulf Zone Championships at the Conroe ISD Natatorium. The men’s team took fifth place and the women’s team took ninth place out of 37 teams. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at Hayes Elementary School have been keeping busy this holiday season by focusing on giving back to others in the Katy community. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Katy ISD Board of Trustees recently recognized several Katy ISD staff members and students for a variety of achievements at their November meeting. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD’s 2011 Teachers of the Year were recently honored by the Katy Heritage Society. Each teacher’s name was etched into commemorative bricks, now on display in the patio of Katy Heritage Park. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The KEYS mentor program brings adult role models into the lives of children on the brink of success. To date, the majority of Katy ISD’s KEYS mentors are women, yet there are so many male students in need of support. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Bonnie Holland Elementary art teachers Judy Rounds and Debra Sweeney were recently published in the December edition of Arts and Activities Magazine. Their article, titled “Winter Birch Trees” after their lesson of the same name, explains how the teachers created an art activity inspired by the natural beauty of Birch trees. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Alex Patrick Ludowig, son of Richard and Brenda Ludowig of Katy, was recently offered an appointment to the U.S. Airforce Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. Congressman Ron Paul nominated Ludowig to the academy late last month. (more…)

|  Email This Post

CEO of Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, Beryl Ramsey, returns to Chair the Go Red For Women Luncheon in partnership with CEO of Methodist West Houston Hospital, Wayne Voss. Together, Ramsey and Voss will serve as Co-Chairs and lead efforts to raise awareness that heart disease remains the number one killer of women, but is often preventable with healthy lifestyle choices. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Taylor High School varsity boys golf team recently won second place in Division II at the Dick Harmon Memorial Golf Tournament held at Redstone. Team members are: Taylor MacKay, Thomas Reilly, Ben Stephens, Ryan Miller, and Austin Partin. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at Pattison Elementary Student Council recently collected money to buy gift items for the Katy ISD Police Santa Cops Program.  The school collected enough money to sponsor 10 children.  On Dec. 3, students met at Target and purchased one outfit for each child (pants, shirt, shoes, jacket) and spent the rest of their funds on fun items for the kids.  All gifts were wrapped and delivered to the Katy ISD police station for pick up by parents. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Community members from Katy and the surrounding area recently stopped what they were doing to read students in more than 356 classes as part of Katy ISD’s 14^th annual Promise to Read program.  Through Promise to Read, volunteers promise to spend 30 minutes reading to an elementary classroom during one week in November. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The mercury is dropping, and the National Weather Service has predicted that there will be widespread freezing temperatures by Thursday morning.  This winter chill is expected to bring in cold overnight temperatures ranging from the upper 20s to the lower 30s. It’s important to remember that a pet’s age, breed or illness may affect how he or she tolerates the cold winter months. The Houston SPCA advises that it is best that all pets live indoors due to these unpredictable weather conditions. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Global Arm, Inc. and Teens Exercising Extraordinary Success (T.E.E.S.) hosted the inaugural Katy Tween Teen Talent Showcase Competition on Saturday, Dec. 3 at Zo-ca-lo Lounge. Contestants from Katy ISD and Fort Bend ISD entered the competition. Along with their parents, they networked with many recording industry professionals and received valuable advice on career paths, personality, stage presence and business matters. (more…)

|  Email This Post

It’s that time of the year again for friends and family gatherings, overcrowding in the kitchen, growing wish lists and adventurous parking at the grocery store and mall. The holidays are meant to be a joyful time when families come together to reflect on all the great things that everyone should be thankful for. However, at times, the holidays can bring out unwanted stress resulting in anxiety, frustration and mood change. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Bridgeland is one of five developments across the nation named Community of the Year in The Nationals 2012 Silver Awards. The community, which most recently won the Developer of the Year Grand Award in the Texas Association of Builders’ Texas Star Awards, also won four other Silver Awards: Print Campaign, Special Promotion, Signage and Graphic Continuity. It was the third time Bridgeland has won a Silver Award for Community of the Year. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Students at Williams Elementary School have been keeping busy with fall with their exciting New Wrangler Café and LASSO programs. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Veterans who need legal advice or legal assistance can visit a free legal clinic scheduled in Katy/Waller County on Saturday, December 10, 2011, in conjunction with the new Veterans Legal Initiative, a coalition of local bar associations to provide pro bono legal services to U.S. veterans in 14 counties in Southeast Texas. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The first ten students to complete the eight-course Bible Certificate program offered by The Bible Seminary will be recognized during Sunday morning worship services at Grace Fellowship UMC, 2655 S. Mason Rd. in Katy on Sunday, Dec. 18. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Society for the Performing Arts (SPA) will present the 14th Annual Student Visual Art Contest sponsored by Wells Fargo. This art contest offers all kindergarten through 12th grade students in the greater Houston area and beyond a chance to showcase their talents and win prizes, while learning more about the performing arts. The deadline for all entries is Friday, Feb. 17, 2012. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Do you know a great teacher or principal who deserves recognition? If so, nominate them for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards recognize dedicated public school educators who go above and beyond to inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to reach their full potential. More than $600,000 in prizes will be awarded to deserving educators. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Members of all three eighth grade volleyball teams at Cinco Ranch Junior High swept the district championship for the first time ever is school history. Girls on the A, B, and C teams all earned spots to compete in the district championship, held Oct. 29. (more…)

|  Email This Post

An aide from U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul’s office will be present from 2:00p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 30th, at Congressman McCaul’s Houston / Katy area Congressional Office to listen to individual constituent comments and concerns regarding federal issues.  Please note that Congressman McCaul will not be present. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Each month, the Katy Chamber of Commerce holds ribbon cuttings throughout the community, welcoming new businesses to the area. During the month of November, the Chamber welcomed the following businesses to Katy: The Jaggers Group LLC, 24044 Cinco Village Center Blvd., #100; Multiplicity, 1306 Ave. A; Amerejuve Medspa, 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Ste. C200; Heritage Texas Properties, 23123 Cinco Ranch Blvd., #200; Verizon Wireless – Katy Main Street, 25705 Katy Fwy.; Another Round, 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Ste. D130; and Tilt Studio – Katy Mills, 5000 Katy Mills Cir., #100. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Families kindly donated a record 2,608 items to the Annual Griffin Elementary Food Drive in aid of Katy Christian Ministries (KCM) Food Pantry. Every day for the past week, students have hauled in bags brimming with generosity and canned goods. As a result, Griffin collected 300 items more than last year’s total. The donations will help KCM provide local people in need with three nutritionally balanced meals each day. (more…)

|  Email This Post

A 40-year old mother of six traveled to Houston from Lehi, Utah to undergo robotic removal of the thymus gland at Methodist West Houston Hospital, returning home just three days later.

Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Miguel Gomez performed the thymectomy surgery with a surgical robot, removing Rebecca Vicchrilli’s thymus gland. Vicchrilli has myasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness and pain in the voluntary muscles.  The prevalence of MG in the U.S. is estimated to be 20 out of every 100,000 individuals. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Beginning in November, parents of Katy ISD students in grades 1-4 and 6-11 can be referred for screening for the 2012-2013 gifted and talented program. To initiate a referral, parents must complete a Parent Checklist. Checklists may be obtained at all elementary, junior high and high school campuses or from the Katy ISD website at katyisd.org/GT.  Parents of students in grades 1-4 must complete the Elementary Parent Checklist.  Parents of students in grades 6-11 must complete the Secondary Parent Checklist. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Willowfork Fire Department is again teaming with the United States Marine Corps to sponsor the “Toys for Tots” Drive in the Katy area. This is the sixth year the Department has participated in this event.  And, thanks to the caring and generous people in the Department’s service area, it has been an incredible success. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy area Eagle Scouts Stan Stanley, local business owner and Scouting commissioner; Stan Kitzman, Waller County commissioner; and Paul Huttenhoff and Brian Foster, leaders of BSA Troop 424 at the Living Word Lutheran Church in Katy are co-hosting an Eagle Scout Meet-Up at La Finca Mexican Restaurant, 23930 Westheimer Pkwy. in Cinco Ranch, on Wednesday, Dec. 7 from 6 – 7 p.m. Open networking begins at 5:30 p.m. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Former Morton Ranch High School graduate, Vangelic Parker, taught English to Spanish speaking immigrants in the Austin area. Parker now attends Texas State University – San Marcos where she joined the McCoy College of Business student organization Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), which has partnered with the organization El Buen Samaritano in Austin. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Odessa Kilpatrick Elementary recently celebrated its October and November Outbackers. Students from each grade level, a staff member, volunteer and business partner are selected each month based on their outstanding citizenship and positive contribution to Kilpatrick Elementary.  (more…)

|  Email This Post

Hundreds of gifted and talented elementary students enjoyed getting together at the Katy Parents of Gifted & Talented (KPGT) GT Create Date to make puppets out of recyclable materials. Students and parents let their imaginations loose as they turned trash to treasure at this fun event co-sponsored by KPGT and KISD. Led by professional puppeteer Greg Ruhe from Puppet Pizzazz and professional artist Taylor Perry, the children enjoyed an inspiring and hilarious puppet show before launching into their own creations. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Katy ISD junior high band students recently competed in head-to-head auditions seeking a position in one of the two TMEA Region 23 All-Region Junior High Bands.  At the end of the auditions, results revealed Katy ISD had 137 students earning membership to these prestigious ensembles.  This represents over 86% of the total membership in these two select groups:  All-Region Symphonic Band, All-Region Concert Band.  Every junior high in Katy ISD had students earning positions in the All-Region Band. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Mayde Creek High School students recently competed in the Texas Association of Journalism Education competition in San Antonio.   Students Corissa Ayala and Dinora Rodriguez took Superior/first place ranks in Photography.  They competed against more than 700 high school photographers. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Seven Lakes High School student Samantha Loos-Polk recently won the Heart in Art Award at Culture Shapers’ Annual Award Ceremony in Houston.  This award is distributed annually to students who are nominated by their teachers and peers.  (more…)

|  Email This Post

How does your garden grow? With lantana, snapdragons and Brussels sprouts at Morton Ranch Elementary as students recently planted a garden that may soon grow vegetables for the entire campus to enjoy.  In a project led by Kimberly Czubara, science coordinator at Morton Ranch Elementary, students from all grade levels planted herbs and vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli, collard greens, cauliflower, parsley, rosemary and mint to name a few.  The garden will serve as an extension to science classrooms for the entire campus, while adding an aesthetic appeal as well.  The campus hopes to soon have a fully functional vegetable garden. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The holiday season is in full swing in Katy.  From traditional foods to that cozy fireplace, there are many unsuspecting hazards which can pose a potential threat to our pets.  The Houston SPCA has a few tips to help keep your furry friend safe and happy over the holidays. (more…)

|  Email This Post

CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital is proud to announce that Katie Cross, MSN and Barbara Lazor, BSN, MBA were honored at the 21^st annual Nursing Celebration ceremony on Thursday, November 10^th as an Outstanding Nurse in 2011. The annual Nursing Celebration ceremony recognizes Houston area’s 20 Outstanding Nurses. (more…)

|  Email This Post

Firethorne has committed to Katy ISD’s Partners in Education (PIE) as the first KEYS Scholarship Platinum Sponsor for 2011. As a KEYS sponsor, Firethorne is helping to create scholarships for students who have participated in KEYS through their senior year.  This is the first year that PIE has opened sponsorship levels for KEYS, with 100 percent of the sponsorship dollars going directly to KEYS Scholarships.  Former KEYS student Eduardo Reyes and his KEYS mentor Jim Burns visited Firethorne representatives last week to thank them for their generous support. (more…)

|  Email This Post

The Lone Star Symphonic Band, a Houston-area nonprofit community band, will have as guest performers the James E. Williams Elementary School Wrangler Chorale from Katy ISD. The Band’s annual Holiday-themed concert, titled “…Good Tidings of Great Joy,” will be held on Sunday, Dec. 11 at 4 p.m. at CrossPoint Community Church, 700 S. Westgreen Blvd. Tickets for the concert are available on the Band’s website, lonestarsymphonicband.com, for $5.50 each and will be available at the door the day of the concert for $10 each.  (more…)

|  Email This Post