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Katy Texas News Briefs 2008
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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.
Firethorne resident Madeleine McDuff (center) is training for her first-ever national junior cycling competition this summer with her coach Garth Blackburn (left) and mentor Dr. Mark Bing (right), all members of the Team Spincycle cycling team in Katy. They are shown in front of the community’s Lake Firethorne with Firethorne General Manager Wayne Meyer (second from right).
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 are (left to right) 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
Pictured: (front row) senior manager Rachel Strobel, senior Krysti Rodriguez, senior captian Julie Bedford, senior Sarah Strait, senior Lauren Leal, junior Lyndsi Schmidtberger (back row) junior Kelsey Rando, junior Kathryn Crider, sponsor Ms. Baker, senior Graciely Reichen, senior Melody Wilson, senior Hannah Ives, senior Kelsey Bolt, 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.
Pictured from left to right is Tommy Dante (Den Chief from Troop 925), David Kempton, Peter Pao, Chris Dante, Christian Brownhill, Tyler Heim, and Joe Dante (Den Leader). For more information about scouting, please contact Joe Dante at 281-395-3357.
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. Pictured are the MRHS Class of ’08 officers.
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!
Pictured are coaches Ray Mitchell, Rick Parker and head coach George Morrison. Players Jordan Hazlewood, Rayne Reynolds, Hunter Parker, Ryan Rake, Tyler Mitchell, Russell Morrison, CJ Varela, Hayden Smith, Jett Birchum, and David Chaidez.
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!
Seated from left to right are: Christie Whitbeck, inaugural principal; Ashley Vann, PTA president; Elissa Farris, former principal; Kristin Harper, principal; and namesake Roosevelt Alexander.
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.
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
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.
Pictured from left to right: (Seated) Lady Tiger Coach David Bryant; Ashlie Matney; her mother, Mary Matney; and FWA Coach Latoya Ellis. (Standing) FWA Headmaster Raúl Hinojosa; Amateur Athletic Union & FWA Coach Craig Upchurch; and Terry Boling, FWA Athletic Director
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
Methodist Hospital's West Houston Campus expected to open near Katy in Sept. 2010
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!
Pictured: Jonathan Xu (left) and Torrey Thomas (right)
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.
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