Grand Lakes February 2018

The Official Newsletter of Grand Lakes 

FEBRUARY 2018 

Important Numbers pg. 2 

Pet Announcments pg. 6 

Babysitting List pg. 7 

Ask Your Neighborhood Planner pg. 9 

Featured Recipes pg. 13 

Engagement Stories pg. 23 

Library News pg. 26 

Family Focus pg. 28 

Houston Events pg. 30 

Published courtesy of Krenek Printing, 7102 Glen Chase Ct., Houston, Texas 77095 • 281-463-8649 

Advertising: ads@krenekprinting.com • News: news@krenekprinting.com • www.krenekprinting.com 

Find us on FACEBOOK for more news & events! Find Businesses easier on our BIZFINDER at www.krenekprinting.com!

Flu Prevention Tips 

GRAND LAKES - COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS 

COMMUNITY EVENTS 

WINTER FESTIVAL / HALLOWEEN EVENT/ EASTER EGG HUNT/ JULY 4th EVENT 

GARAGE SALE 

NEWSLETTER Monica Vagholkar 

WOMAN’S ASSOC. Garima Dasgupta 

Eva Miller 

GL GATOR’S SWIM TEAM Tamara Thornton 

monica_vagholkar@yahoo.com 

garimadasgupta@gmail.com 

evajoel@sbcglobal.net 

tamarathornton@gmail.com 

LOST & FOUND PETS Lisa Lambert 281-392-5792 

https://m.facebook.com/GrandLakes4Pets/ 

PLAY GROUPS VOLUNTEER NEEDED 

CRIME WATCH GLEN GESOFF 

GRAND LAKES BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

Collins Pier 

Glen Gesoff 

Carlos Ortiz 

grandlakescrimewatch@yahoo.com 

Andrew Zheng 

Bing Lu 

www.grandlakeslife.com 

HELPFUL NUMBERS FOR GRAND LAKES 

Association - Principal Management Group of Houston 

11000 Corporate Centre Drive, Suite 150, Houston, TX 77041 

Phone: 713-329-7100 Fax: 713-329-7198 

Emergencies can be reported after hours and on weekends by calling 

713-329-7100, the emergency on call manager can assist you. 

Contact Andrew Vacek-avacek@pmghouston.com 

Contact: Erica Morgan - emorgan@pmghouston.com 

Contact: Judi Simon - jsimon@pmghouston.com 

Please contact them with Grand Lakes questions or concerns. 

POLICE/FIRE 

Emergency Numbers.... ***911*** 

Fire Department (Emergency) 281-498-2800 

Fire Department (Non Emergency) 281-498-1310 

Fort Bend Co. Sheriff 281-341-4665 

Utilities/Post Office/FT BEND CO. 

CenterPoint Energy 713-659-2111 

Reliant energy 713-207-7777 

email:service@reliant.com 

Reliant energy light outage 713-207-2222 

Municipal District Services ( MDS) 

GL’s MUD # 1,2 & 4 contract with MUD Services (MDS) 

to operate the GL public water and sewer utilities 

24-Hr Repair Hotline -Water Leaks/Sewage Stoppages 

281-290-6503 

Billing/Payment/Customer Care 281-290-6507 

Consolidated Comm.(west of Peek) 1-866-989-2255 

AT & T (east of Peek) 1-800-464-7928 

Best Trash 281-313-2378 

(Pick up Mon. & Thurs.) (Thurs.-Recycle) 

Street Lights - not working 713-207-2222 

1-800-332-7143 

or 

www.centerpointenergy.com/houston> 

Comcast 713-341-1000 

DPS Katy 281-391-4872 

Katy & Park Row Post Offices 1-800-275-8777 

Dept. of Public Safety 713-465-8462 

Poison Control 1/800/222-1222 

Ft Bend Co. Animal Control 281-342-1512 

SCHOOLS 

www.katyisd.org 

KISD Administration 281-396-6000 

KISD Transportation 281-396-7560 

Alexander Rae Elementary 281-237-7100 

Beckendorf Junior High 281-237-8800 

Seven Lakes High School 281-237-2800 

Miller Career Center 281-237-6300 

www.katyisd.org 

LIBRARIES FT. BEND CO. 

Katy/Ft. Bend Mini-Branch 281-395-1311 

Cinco Ranch Library 281-395-1311 

George Memorial 281-342-4455 

Maud Smith Marks 281-492-8592 

MEDICAL 

Methodist West Hospital 832-522-5522 

Texas Childrens Hospital West 832-227-1000 

Fort Bend Co.Health Dept. 281-342-6414 

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital 281-392-1111 

Houston Methodist St. Catherine Hospital 281-599-5700 

Memorial Hospital 713-932-3000 

NEWSLETTER: 

For Commercial or Classified Ads contact: 

Krenek Printing Co. 281-463-8649 

www.krenekprinting.com 

7102 Glen Chase Ct. Fax: 281-463-2425 

Houston, Texas 77095 

Email: news@krenekprinting.com 

ads@krenekprinting.com 

2 February 2018 | Community Newsletter

www.grandlakeslife.com 

BOARD MEETINGS 

Grand Lakes monthly Board meetings take place every 4 th Monday 

of the month at 5:30 PM at the Seven Meadows Clubhouse located 

at 23610 Seven Meadows Parkway, Katy, TX 77494. Log on to www. 

grandlakeslife.com for up to date meeting information as dates are 

subject to change. 

Happy valentine’s day! 

UPCOMING EVENTS 

• Spring litter pickup date to be Saturday, March 3 rd 

(rain date Saturday, April 7 th ) 

• Spring garage sale/recycle drive to be Saturday, April 21 st 

GRAND LAKES NEWSLETTER February 2018 

Lovely love expressions. What are some best buys for February? A guide 

to the meaning of a rose! Grand Lakes is online: grandlakeslife.com. 

NEWSLETTER ARTICLE DEADLINES 

Newsletter articles are due by the 20 th of the month for the upcoming 

issue. Newsletter article deadlines are: 

April 2018 - due 2/20 May 2018 - due 3/20 

GRAND LAKES NEWS 

CONTACT PMG AT 713-329-7100 TO GET YOUR NEWSLETTER 

If you really want to show someone you care, you inconvenience yourself. 

A friend had posted this on her Facebook page a short time ago, 

forever leaving an impression that forced me to think about my own 

actions and perspective on “helping others.” Recently, a dear friend of 

mine found peace in Heaven after such a long battle with cancer. I was 

shocked to find out via voice mail that my friend was breathing last 

breaths. I had no idea that my friend was so sick. Immediately, everything 

flashed in front of my eyes - the past five years of our friendship, 

the ups and almost downs, the highs and the lift you higher lows, the 

laughter, the prayer, the tears. I drove as fast as I could to the hospital 

for our one last time together. What I witnessed was shocking: my once 

strong, fierce fighter dear friend was a completely different person. I 

held the hand of this mighty fighter and prayed. I kissed these once 

strong hands and looked deep into those blue eyes. We spoke, we 

smiled and my friend’s last words to me were blessings. I am so glad 

that I went that day. That I inconvenienced myself. Questions, comments: 

email - monica_vagholkar@yahoo.com. 

WHAT TO BUY IN FEBRUARY 

February offers some great deals that are unique to this month. 

Here are six things that are worth waiting to buy: 

1. Mattresses: February is one of the three months during the year 

that you can find a deal on mattresses. The other months are May and 

September. The best deals will come around Presidents Day weekend. 

2. Perfume and cologne: Perfume and cologne are typically a good buy 

ahead of Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14 th . But here’s the deal: A lot of brands 

don’t actually mark their prices down, but instead offer a gift with 

purchase or a discounted purchase if you buy another cosmetic item. 

3. Outerwear: Expect to find rock-bottom prices on winter outerwear 

in February. Stores need to clear the racks for their spring inventory 

and bulky coats have to go. 

4. Ski and snow gear: Snowboards, skiwear and ski equipment will be 

marked down in February until the racks are cleared. Most ski resorts 

will close out the season by trying to eliminate any extra inventory. 

This is also a good time to get deals on lift tickets and ski packages. 

5. Snacks and canned foods: February is National Canned Food Month, 

so expect to find some great deals. Check your local grocery stores for 

their weekly sale ad. Most stores run sales starting Feb. 1 st . 

6. Chocolate: If you can wait until Feb. 15 th , the day after Valentine’s Day 

and don’t mind eating heart-shaped chocolate, you will score fantastic 

deals on high quality chocolate. 

From: www.marketwatch.com/story/here-are-the-6-best-things-tobuy-in-february-2017-02-03 

Community Newsletter | February 2018 

3

Call Anytime! 

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT: 

FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL SNACK FOOD MONTH 

GRAND LAKES ANNOUNCEMENTS 

WELCOME TO GRAND LAKES! 

CONTACT PMG at 713-329-7100 FOR YOUR NEWSLETTER! 

GRAND LAKES GREEN COMMITTEE 

The Green Committee is looking for individuals to join their committee. 

There are exciting plans for the 2018 year. Please email Community 

Manager Erica Morgan at emorgan@pmghouston.com to join. 

GRAND LAKES WOMAN’S ASSOCIATION 

Join your neighbors, make new friends and have fun with GLWA! Let’s 

share a special tradition you and your family celebrates or we could bring 

a photo of our family and share a story! Or discuss a book we are reading 

or a project we are working on! Let’s meet and have fun. For details 

contact me - garimadasgupta@gmail.com and evajoel@sbcglobal.net. 

Also, please visit our Facebook page and join us: www.facebook.com/ 

pages/Grand-Lakes-Woman-Association/282953398525854. 

GRAND LAKES WOMAN’S GROUP FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS 

A great way to get to know your neighbors, make friends and share 

stories from our diverse backgrounds. We meet once a month for 

breakfast or lunch in the home of one of our great ladies. Please email 

Esperanza Tafallo for more information at etafallo@sbcglobal.net. 

GRUPO DE SEÑORAS DE HABLA HISPANA 

DE GRAND LAKES 

Es una gran manera de conocer a sus vecinas, hacer nuevas amistades 

y compartir nuestras historias. Nos reunimos una vez al mes a 

desayunar o almorzar en casa de una de nosotras. Por favor llame o 

pase un correo a Esperanza Tafallo al etafallo@sbcglobal.net. 

GRAND LAKES WEBSITE/EMAIL 

Log onto www.grandlakeslife.com for the latest and greatest about 

the Grand Lakes community. The website is available for all Grand 

Lakes residents. Click “Join Our Mailing List.” Messages are sent only 

with items of interest to the community. 


COMMUNITY BIKE RACKS 

Grand Lakes’ residents are advised to lock up bikes when utilizing 

community parks and facilities. Bike racks are installed in various 

areas throughout the community. 

FIRST-COME FIRST-SERVE COMMUNITY FACILITIES 

Grand Lakes’ facilities are available at first come first serve basis. 

These facilities include, but are not limited to: Tennis Courts, Park 

areas, Town Square gazebos/sitting areas, Greenbelts (walk and 

bike trails), Community lakes, etc. The facilities cannot be reserved 

for any reason. Contact PMG PMG for further details. 

NO POSTING SIGNS AT MAIL BOXES 

NO signs and letters are to be posted by on Grand Lakes’ mail box 

stations. Contacts listed on the signs will be charged to have the signs 

removed by a vendor. Contact PMG for all community issues and 

contact Krenek Printing for advertising in the Grand Lakes’ newsletter. 

FENCE STAINING 

Please be aware that resident fence painting is not permitted in the 

Grand Lakes Community without the approval of the New Construction 

Committee (NCC). In an effort to maintain visual harmony within Grand 

Lakes, the Association does not permit residents to color stain their 

exterior fences. Residents can however, seal their fence with a clear 

wood preservatives treatment, provided it is approved by the Grand 

Lakes Community Association, NCC. Should you have any questions regarding 

this matter or any other home improvements, modifications or 

additions to your home’s exterior, please contact PMG at 713-329-7100. 

GRAND LAKES “TRAILS” - NO MOTORIZED VEHICLES, 

EXCEPT FOR MOBILITY ASSISTANCE VEHICLES 

For the safety of Grand Lakes residents, do not operate go-carts, 

motorized recreational scooters, three or four-wheelers or cars on 

walking/jogging trails, lake bridges, sidewalks, park and play areas, 

greenbelts and all open common grounds. Mobility assistance vehicles, 

like power wheel chairs are exempt from this notice. 

GRAND LAKES “FISH” 

Grand Lakes has a strict CATCH & RELEASE policy. Only “barb-less” 

hooks are allowed to prevent injuring fish that are caught and returned. 

Please use care when handling fish and gently return them 

to the water as quickly as possible. Trotlines or other non-standard 

fish-catching tools are forbidden. 

GRAND LAKES “LAKES” - USE OF ANY WATERCRAFT AND 

SWIMMING ARE PROHIBITED ON COMMUNITY LAKES 

This includes kayaking, canoeing or any form of pleasure boating. 

The use of remote controlled water toys is okay. Community lakes 

are for neighborhood beautification and approved shoreline fishing. 

RECYCLING NEWS FOR GRAND LAKES 

Our community recycling company, Best Trash, accepts glass 

and Styrofoam! It takes approximately 1 MILLION YEARS for glass 

bottles to decompose and Styrofoam containers - over 1 MILLION 

YEARS! Let’s ALL try to recycle - with curbside pick-up, so there are 

no more excuses! 

RECYCLING CENTERS NEAR YOU! 

The Ft. Bend County Recycling Center in Rosenberg (just 10 miles 

away), accepts glass/bottles, Styrofoam and other items. Visit the Ft. 

Bend Co. government website www.co.fort-bend.tx.us for information. 

Green Arrow Recycling located in Katy, west of Katy High School 

accepts paper, plastics, aluminum, electronics, cardboard and other 

recyclable materials and welcome residential drop offs. 

Visit greenarrowrecycling.com. 

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5

GRAND LAKES PET ANNOUNCEMENTS 

SCOOPAGE PET POOPAGE 

It may not be a fabulous way to walk, but please have courtesy to 

please scoop when your pet poops during your walks. Throughout 

the community trails, you will find areas to toss your pet’s poopage 

and in some areas, there are also bags. Carry your own grocery bags 

- you’ll be recycling at the same time! Many of your neighbors work 

hard with their lawncare and landscaping. Come with a scooper 

and a recycled grocery bag or anything else. Picking up after your 

pets shows your respect for every Grand Lakes homeowner and our 

beautiful community. Pet feces damages lawns and many residents 

are working hard to maintaining their grass! 

GRAND LAKES PET LOST & FOUND 

Do you have pets, love animals and want to help your neighbors who 

have pets? Grand Lakes has a Pet Lost & Found service which helps 

reunite lost or found pets with their families. To receive pet “amber” 

alerts, please email Lisa at grandlakes4pets@aol.com and ask to be 

added to her list. If you ever find a lost pet or lose one of your own 

you’ll be glad to have this service at your fingertips. Please see more 

information on the “Helpful Numbers for Grand Lakes” page. 

GRAND LAKES PET LOST & FOUND ON FACEBOOK! 

Be sure to check out the Facebook pages for pets lost and found 

in our area: www.facebook.com/GrandLakes4Pets. If residents 

“like” this page, they will receive even more info. regarding pets 

for adoption, as well as those found and lost. 

GRAND LAKES DOG PARK 

Grand Lakes dog park is located in the southeast corner of Grand 

Lakes: from south Fry Road go south on Rainwood Park Drive, left at 

Central Park (Grand Brooks Lane), left on Emily Park, left on Grandwood 

Lane, then right on Calico Crossing. The park and parking lot 

is on your right toward the end of the street 

5 STEPS TO A HAPPIER HEALTHIER PET 

1. Protect your pet from extreme weather (heat, cold, rain, etc.). 

2. Keep indoors or in a fenced yard and on a leash when walked. 

3. Make sure they’re up to date with vaccinations. 

4. Always make sure they’re wearing identification, so they 

can be returned to you if lost. 

5. Spay or neuter your pet. 

Texas Lab Rescue has labs available that are waiting to go to their 

forever home. Please check out their website at txlabrescue.org. 

KEEP YOUR PETS ON LEASHES 

For the safety of all Grand Lakes residents, please use all precautions 

with your pets and keep them on leashes when walking pets in the 

community EVEN IF YOU FEEL YOUR PET IS HARMLESS. If you do come 

across a loose pet or a pet that may be lost, please try to take in the 

pet temporarily to your home if you can and immediately email the 

Grand Lakes Pets Lost and Found: grandlakes4pets@aol.com. 

PLEASE NOTE - PETS ON LEASHES 

It is the law in Fort Bend County that all pets must be vaccinated for 

rabies, registered and restrained. All animals, when outside of an 

owner’s means of restraint (i.e., in a fenced back yard), must be on a 

leash. For the safety of all residents, please use all precautions with 

your pets and keep them on leashes when walking pets in the community 

EVEN IF YOU FEEL YOUR PET IS HARMLESS. If you see ANY animal 

roaming freely in the neighborhood, immediately call Animal Control 

at 281-342-1512. Even if you recognize the animal, be very careful 

approaching it, as you do not know how it will react; if you can safely 

retrieve the animal, then call the owner. Otherwise, Animal Control is 

your best and safest option. 

PREVENT EXCESSIVE BARKING! 

Dogs left alone all day get lonely, bored and restless. Many find 

relief in barking. Some respond noisily to any and all activity. 

Nothing is as annoying as incessant barking-even for dog lovers. 

If your dog is a yapper or a yowler, please consider some of these 

bark-abatement ideas to keep the noise down in your area. Your 

neighbors will thank you! 

• Training. Training not only helps your dog, you’ll be surprised how 

much it helps you, too. You may get some insight into why your dog 

barks so much, or what it is trying to communicate. 

• Citronella collars. 

• Confinement. Sometimes simply bringing an outspoken dog 

indoors or confining it to a crate cuts down on the disturbance to 

neighbors. 

• For inside dogs, reduce stimulus. Close drapes to help muffle street 

noise, or leave a radio on to mask it. 

• Companionship. Dogs are pack animals; they need companionship-a 

cat, bird or another dog. Consider a mid-day visit from a 

pet-sitting service or drop your pooch off at a friend’s place or a 

day-care facility once or twice a week. 

FORT BEND COUNTY “LEASH LAW” 

Animal control authorities are permitted to enter your Property to patrol 

and remove pets. Pets must be registered, licensed and inoculated 

as required by law. 

As a dog owner, you are responsible for the control of your dog. If your 

dog is one that ‘makes objectionable noise,’ you must make every effort 

to respect your Neighbor’s right to their ‘peace and quiet.’ 

When your dog is not in your yard, it is imperative that you keep your 

dog on a leash at all times. While your dog is friendly to you and your 

family, imagine the consequences if it were to harm someone while it 

was ‘roaming free.’ 

Please respect other resident’s right to walk the common area ground 

without fear of attack from an unleashed dog. 

Laws are written to ensure that owned animals are confined to their 

property or kept on a leash to free a community of unrestrained and 

free-roaming animals. Although most dog bites occur on the property 

where the dog lives, unrestrained or free-roaming dogs do pose a substantial 

threat to the public. In addition, unrestrained animals are at 

increased risk of being bitten by rabies infected wildlife. Enforcement 

of restraint laws is essential in enhancing the animal control program’s 

efforts to reduce the risk of rabies in our community. 

LICENSING OF DOGS AND CATS 

The primary benefit of licensing animals is identification, 

should that animal become lost. Licensing also: 

• Ensures that rabies vaccination are current. 

• Allows for quick identification in case of a bite incident. 

• Provides revenue to offset the administration costs of the 

animal control program. 

VACCINATION 

Rabies vaccinations are a prerequisite for licensing dogs and cats 

because they are an important control measure for the public health 

threat of rabies. In addition to protecting pets, rabies vaccinations 

provide a barrier between infected wild animals and humans. 


Sports Injury and Concussion Seminar 

Weekend warriors and young athletes are invited to learn about how to prevent and manage 

sports injuries and concussions. Board-certified doctors from Houston Methodist Orthopedics 

& Sports Medicine at West will present and answer your questions. 

Thursday, Feb. 22 | 6-7:30 p.m. 

YMCA at Katy Main Street 

1350 Main St., Katy, TX 77494 

To register for this free event, call 832.522.5522. Refreshments provided. 

Dr. Winfield Campbell 

Orthopedic Surgery, 

Sports Medicine 

Dr. F. Alex Schroeder 

Orthopedic Surgery, 

Sports Medicine 

Dr. P. Timothy Sprockel 

Primary Care Sports Medicine, 

Concussion Management 

GRAND LAKES TEENAGE JOB SEEKER’S LIST 

If you are between 12 and 18 and would like to be added to the teenage 

job seeker’s list, please fill out the form on our website (www. 

krenekprinting.com, click submissions and choose Jobseekers) 

with your name, birthdate (mo. & yr.), phone number, year you will 

graduate and the name of your newsletter/subdivision. Check the 

list of jobs you want on your form. Please make sure your email is 

correct, we send emails in the summer to make sure all the info is 

still good and that you want to stay on the list. If we do not hear 

back from you after 3 tries, we will remove you from the list until 

we do. Must have parent(s) permission. 

TEENAGE JOB SEEKER’S LIST 

MAY NOT BE VIEWED ONLINE 

AVAILABLE IN PRINTED 

NEWSLETTERS ONLY 

DISCLAIMER 

Neither the subdivision, nor Krenek Printing is responsible for those 

listed on the Teenage Job Seeker List. Please ask for and check 

out references if you do not personally know those listed. This is 

just a list of teenagers from the subdivision who wish to find part 

time jobs. Responsibility for any work done by these teenagers is 

between those seeking helpers and the teens and their parents. 


7

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ASK YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNER 

By Craig Narum CFP®, Grand Lakes resident 

THE MATHEMATICS OF INVESTING (PART 2 OF 4) 

Last month in Part 1, we showed two ways to determine rate 

of return: 

Total Return = (Ending Balance [EB] - Beginning Balance [BB]) 

/ Beginning Balance [BB] 

Compound Annualized Rate of Return = [(EB/BB)^(1/# of years)] - 1 

In our example, Jane originally invested $10,000 and it took her 

portfolio two years to grow to $12,000 or 20% growth over two years. 

To take the difference in time into consideration, to calculate Jane’s 

annual compound return, we take $12,000 / $10,000 = 1.2. Then, we 

raise 1.2 to the 1/2 (or 0.50) power, giving us 1.09545. Subtract out 1 

and we have 0.09545 or 9.545%, which is Jane’s annualized return. 

10% Plus 10% Doesn’t Equal 20%. You might think that Jane’s annualized 

return should have been 10% and not 9.54%, since she invested 

her money for two years and 10% + 10% = 20%, which was her total 

rate of return. However, here’s where the math can get tricky. 

Let’s just say that Jane’s $10,000 did grow 10% each year for two 

years. At the end of the first year, Jane would have accumulated 

$11,000. In year one, $10,000 x (1 + 0.10) = $11,000. In year two, if 

Jane’s $11,000 grows by another 10%, this gives us $11,000 x (1 + 

0.10) = $12,100, which is more than the $12,000 Jane actually accumulated. 

This $100 discrepancy explains why Jane only earned 

a 9.54% and not a 10%, compound annual return. 

Similarly, the math doesn’t intuitively make sense when you’re 

losing money. If Jane’s $10,000 investment had lost 10% the first 

year, she would have $9,000 left. In year two, if Jane’s investment 

rebounds by exactly the same amount - 10% - Jane would not break 

even, as you might expect. In fact, a 10% increase in $9,000 results 

in only $9,900. Therefore, you need a greater percentage gain after 

a losing year in order to break even on your investment. 


The Rule of 72. If you need an approximation of how your nest egg 

might grow, you might want to use the Rule of 72. The Rule of 72 can 

reveal how long it could take your money to double at a particular 

rate of return. Use the following formula: 

72 / Annual Rate of Return = Number of years it will take for your 

money to double at a particular rate of return 

For example, Jane and Joe want to figure out how long it will take 

their $10,000 investments to double to $20,000. They use their 

compound annual rates of return (as figured previously) to estimate 

how many years it will take to double their money. Joe estimates 

it will take over 19 years (72 / 3.71% = 19.4 years). However, Jane’s 

portfolio could grow to $20,000 in less than eight years (72 / 9.54% 

= 7.55 years). It is important to note that the Rule of 72 does not 

guarantee investment results or function as a predictor of how your 

investment will perform. It is simply an approximation of the impact 

a targeted rate of return would have. Investments are subject to 

fluctuating returns and there can never be a guarantee that any 

investment will double in value. 

No Substitute for Understanding. A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) 

can help you gauge your investments’ performance, so you don’t 

have to do the calculations yourself. But it is still your responsibility 

to understand what it all means. Without that knowledge, you 

could make potentially unfavorable financial decisions. With a 

fundamental understanding of the information presented above, 

you’ll be better able to realistically judge your investments. 

Next month in Part 3 … 

Taking taxes and inflation 

into account by calculating 

the “real” rate of return. 

9

Krenek Printing 

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTERS 

www.krenekprinting.com 

281-463-8649 

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NEWSLETTERS: 

View your newsletter online! You can 

read your community news on our website or download 

it to take with you and print. 

Archived issues are also available. 

TRASH PICKUP DAYS 

MONDAY & THURSDAY 

THURSDAY RECYCLE 

What can be recycled? 

Here is a list of all the items that 

Best Trash accepts for recycling. 

All recycled items should be 

dry, empty, clean and loose. 

Recycling Guide 

MOBILE: 

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ads online. 

Paper 

✔ Newspapers & Inserts 

✔ Magazines & Catalogs 

✔ Junk mail, Envelopes & File Folders 

✔ White & Colored Office or Computer Paper 

✔ Corrugated Cardboard 

✔ Cereal & Gift Boxes 

✔ Paper Bags & Phone Books 

✔ Wrapping Paper 

✔ Milk Cartons 

✔ Juice Cartons 

✔ Wax-coated Boxes 

Metal 

✔ Aluminum Cans 

✔ Aluminum Foil 

✔ Aluminum Foil plates & Serving Containers 

✔ Metal Food Cans (tin & steel) 

✔ Metal Food Cans Lids 

✔ Pots & Pans 

Glass 

✔ Clear & Colored 

Plastic 

Plastic Bags, Bottles, Jars, Tubs 

& Buckets such as: 

✔ Soda 

✔ Water 

✔ Milk 

✔ Juice 

✔ Liquor 

✔ Shampoo 

✔ Detergent 

✔ Condiments 

✔ Salad Dressing 

✔ Yogurt 

✔ Margarine 

✔ Pet Food 

etc. 

NOW OFFERING FULL COLOR 

PRINTING SERVICES! 

Call today for a quote! 

If you have more recyclable material than what fits in the provided recycle container, 

you are welcome to use a container of your choice (i.e. Rubbermaid tote, trash can 

with lid and wheels) as long as the container is clearly labeled "RECYCLE". 

If you have questions please give us a call at 281-313-2378 or send us an email, customerservice@besttrashtexas.com. 


STREET LIGHTS 

If you happen to notice streetlights that may not be burning or the 

pole is leaning, you can contact CenterPoint Energy directly at their 

customer service department at 713-207-2222. The information 

you will need prior to contacting them, is the actual pole number; a 

six-digit number that is on a plate located on the pole itself and the 

address nearest to that particular pole. 

PARKS, TOWN SQUARE AND COMMON AREAS 

IN THE COMMUNITY 

In the community of Grand Lakes, there are several common areas 

for the residents to enjoy. These common areas are restricted to 

residents for individual and family use and for community events. 

It is important that we do not abuse these areas with events other 

than the activities mentioned. 

The homeowners association maintains all of these areas so if there 

is any damage to these areas the community pays for it. Thank you 

for your cooperation in keeping our community beautiful. 

GRAND LAKES LADIES TENNIS 

Tennis teams of all levels are looking for players. For more information 

about tennis teams and leagues that play in Grand Lakes, please 

contact Suzanne Brice. Cell phone #: 713-203-5168, 

smbrice4@comcast.net. 

IMPORTANT DATES & HOLIDAYS IN February 2018 

FEBRUARY OBSERVANCES & FUN FACTS 

February is observed as: 

• Black History Month 

• National Children’s Dental Health 

• American Heart Month 

• National Wise Health Consumer 

• Parent Leadership Month 

Birthstone: Amethyst 

Fruit & Veggies for February: 

• Oranges 

• Star Fruit 

• Calabaza Squash 

• Chayote Squash 

• Bitter Melon 

T 

K 

C 

he 

leaning 

ompany 

• Load & Unload Dishwasher 

• Clean Outside of Appliances 

• Sweep Front Porch 

• Change Linens & Towels 

• Dust Window Ledges & Sills 

• Remove Trash 

• Dust Mini Blinds & Ceiling Fans 

• Damp Wipe Outside of Cabinets 

• Clean Baseboards 

281-861-0394 

• Pool Services 

• Personal Assistance Care 

• Move In/Out 

• Competitive Rates 

• Locally Owned & Operated 

• Bonded & Insured 

• FREE PHONE ESTIMATE 

$ 

10 OFF 

First Visit 

www.thekleaningcompany.com 

“Dust if you must, but why not have us.” 

Nu-Look Remodeling 

“It’s not just a job, it’s your home!” 

Joe Edgerly 

• Painting 

• Drywall 

• Plumbing 

• Electrical 

• Doors 

• Cabinets 

• Granite 

• Etc. 

Free 

Estimates 

February Flower: Violet 

Astrological Signs: Aquarius and Pisces 

Holidays: 

2/2: Groundhog Day 

2/13: Mardi Gras 

2/14: Ash Wednesday 

2/14: Valentine’s Day 

2/16: Chinese New Year 

2/19: Presidents’ Day 


281-620-8077 

nulookpainter@yahoo.com 

In Business Since 1994 

nulookhomeimprovements.com 

11

ELECTRICIAN 

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FAT TUESDAY 

FEB. 13, 2018 

MARDI GRAS 1/6-2/13-18 

FUN FACTS: 

WOULD YOU BELIEVE? 

• More than 500,000 king cakes are sold each year in New Orleans 

between January 6 th and Fat Tuesday. 

• The king cakes include a tiny plastic baby doll inside; the person 

who finds the doll is declared “king” and must buy the next 

cake or give the next party. 

• The metro area’s 37,000-plus hotel rooms are traditionally 

95% filled during Mardi Gras weekend. 

• An economic impact study released by the University of 

New Orleans estimates that Mardi Gras generates over 

$840 million annually. 

• The largest of about one dozen Mardi Gras supply houses in 

New Orleans sells an estimated one billion pairs of beads for 

a Mardi Gras season. 

• The super parades of Endymion and Bacchus, feature a combined 

total of 67 floats, 60 marching bands and more than 250 units. 

Their 4,200 members toss more than 1.5 million cups, 2.5 million 

doubloons and millions of beads. 

• One of the most photographed objects in all of Mardi Gras is the 

Boeuf Gras float in the Rex parade. Since the Middle Ages, the 

bouef gras (fatted bull) has been the symbol of the last meat eaten 

before Lent. 

Courtesy: neworleanscvb.com 

GARDENING TIPS FOR FEBRUARY 

FLOWERS 

• Plants to set: Alyssum, Calendula, 

Canterbury Bells, Carnations, Columbine, 

Cornflower, Daisies, Delphinium, 

Hollyhock, Larkspur, Lobelia, Nicotiana, 

Pansy, Petunia, Phlox (Louisiana), 

Shrimp Plant, Snapdragon, Stock and Verbena. 

VEGETABLES 

• Plant beets, broccoli (plants), brussel sprouts (plants), cabbage 

(plants), carrots, cauliflower (plants), celery, chinese cabbage 

(plants), chives collards (plants), endive, kale, lettuce (leaf and head), 

mustard, onions (plants), parsley, garden peas, radishes, rutabagas, 

spinach, tomato (seeds) and turnips. 

TREES AND SHRUBS 

• Finish all transplanting, get everything in the ground for a good 

spring spurt of growth. Transplant balled and burlap, container-grown, 

bare-root deciduous evergreen trees, shrubs, roses and 

vines while still dormant. 

• Finish pruning roses. Weed and cultivate lightly all beds. Replenish 

mulch as needed. 

• Control early spring insects like thrips on glads and aphids on young 

tender growth. Spray with Malathion, Diazinon or Orthene. 

• At the end of February: peach, apple and pear fruit must be thinned 

to insure quality production at harvest. 

• Give groundcovers a haircut. They will spread faster. 

• Divide daylilies, daisies and other perennials now. 


Forever Landscape 

• Tree Trimming 

• Tree Removal 

• Tree Fertilizer 

• Stump Grinding 

• Trim Bushes 

• Flower Bed Design 

• Planting, Renovation 

• Stone Border 

• Pavers 

Call Everth 

281-891-0370 

Visit us at 

• Flat Stones 

• Drain System 

• Garden Soil, Top Soil 

• Grass Installation 

• Lawn Aeration 

• Lawn Dethatcher 

• Mulch 

• Clean Gutters 

• Wood Fence 

Free 

Estimates 

www.foreverlandscape.com 

Fully insured for your protection. 

WINTER CLEANUP SPECIAL 

20% Off Entire House or Roof Cleaning 

Free Estimates & Demos 

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support@k-mpw.com 

SERVICES OFFERED: 

Roof Cleaning - No Pressure Damage Free 

Power Washing - Low Pressure Damage Free 

Pressure Washing - High Pressure 

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MAID SERVICES 

281-912-5036 

Exterior House Cleaning Specialists 

and egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. 

Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture almost 

comes to a simmer and thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and 

black pepper to taste. 

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine in boiling water, 

stirring occasionally, until nearly cooked through, about 7 minutes. Drain. 

Stir parsley, 1 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano and cream mixture into the 

pasta. Remove from heat, cover and let sit for a few minutes until thick. 

Fold chicken and 1 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano into the pasta mixture to 

serve. Source: allrecipes.com 

LIGHTER CHICKEN FETTUCCINE ALFREDO 

You could make this on National Fettuccine Alfredo Day February 7 th ! 

INGREDIENTS: 

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts 

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth 

4 cloves garlic, minced 

ground black pepper to taste 

2 cups heavy cream 

2 egg yolks 

salt to taste 

1 pound fettuccine 

1 sprig chopped fresh parsley 

2 cups freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, divided 

DIRECTIONS: 

Combine chicken breasts and chicken broth in a saucepan over medium-high 

heat. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to low; simmer for 5 

minutes. Turn breasts, cover and simmer another 5 minutes. Remove from 

heat and let sit with the cover on for 15 minutes. 

Remove chicken breasts from the broth and set aside to cool, reserving 

the broth in the saucepan. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, cut 

into bite-size slices. Return the chicken broth to medium heat and cook 

until reduced to 1 cup. Stir garlic, black pepper and heavy cream into the 

reduced broth; bring to a simmer and remove from heat. 

Whisk egg yolks in a bowl until smooth. Beat 1 tablespoon of the warm 

cream mixture into the eggs until thoroughly incorporated; repeat until 

about 1/2 cup of the warm cream mixture is used. Whisk the warm cream 


CREAM CHEESE BROWNIES 

You could make this on National Cream Cheese Brownies Day Feb. 10 th ! 

INGREDIENTS: 

1/2 cup all-purpose flour 

1/2 teaspoon baking powder 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips 

5 tablespoons shortening 

1 cup white sugar 

3 eggs 

3 tablespoons cream cheese 

2 teaspoons vanilla extract 

1/2 teaspoon almond extract 

1/2 cup chopped almonds 

Cream Cheese frosting - optional 

DIRECTIONS: 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease 9 inch square baking 

pan. 

In top of a double boiler, melt chocolate chips and shortening, stirring 

frequently until smooth. Pour into a large bowl and mix in sugar, cream 

cheese and eggs. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts. Gradually mix in flour, 

baking powder and salt. Fold in almonds and pour the batter into pan. 

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven, until toothpick inserted 

near the center comes out clean. Let cool in pan before cutting into bars. 

Add Cream Cheese frosting if desired. 

Source: allrecipes.com 

13


Front row (L-R) - Ema Rhea, Amy Rhea and Maris Baughman. Middle Row (L-R) - Ashley Nighswander, Abby McKasle, Nykol Pratt, Audrey 

Pennington, Laura Campbell, Lindsey Mumey and Payton Hanks. Back Row (L-R) - Alexis Champagne, Ella Vincent, Paloma Ames-Zuniga, 

Abby Bender, Amanda Saxman, Emma Bordeaux, Claire Fortier, Devan Andres, Bailey Gatz and Jordyn Jones. Photo is taken by Nikki 

Guest Photography 

NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE EVENT HONORS GRADUATING SENIORS 

The National Charity League, Inc., Azalea Chapter honored its graduating seniors at its annual Senior Recognition in early January at 

the Sugarland Marriott. At the dinner and dance, attended by family and friends, chapter members celebrated the accomplishments 

of each of the girls in the Azalea Class of 2018 and recognize her contributions to the community during her six years of service in The 

National Charity League (NCL) program. The seniors are students at Cinco Ranch High School, Seven Lakes High School, Taylor High 

School, Tompkins High School and Faith West High School. 

The mission of the NCL is to foster mother daughter relationships in a philanthropic organization committed to community service, 

leadership development and cultural experiences. The Azalea Chapter was formed in 1999 and in the past year its members have served 

over 10,000 volunteer hours in support of 24 charitable organizations in the Katy area. 

BASHANS PAINTING 

& HOME REPAIR 

• Interior & Exterior Painting 

• Wallpaper Removal 

• HARDIPLANK ® Installation • Custom Texturing 

• Sheetrock Repair 

• Pressure Washing 

• Cabinet Painting 

• Fence Repair/Replacement 

• Wood Replacement 

• Garage Floor Epoxy 

• Interior Carpentry 

• Custom Staining 

• Crown Molding 

• Roofing 

• Faux Painting 

• Gutter Repair & Replacement 

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15

Above is a picture of the Taylor High School Expressions with Director Kevin Riehle, Marsha Smith (retired Taylor counselor), 

Gail Land (Founder of Taylor Expressions) and Mary Kelly (retired educator and parent) from the beginning days of the Taylor Expressions. 

KATY AREA RETIRED EDUCATORS (KARE) 

On December 6, 2017, Katy Area Retired Educators (KARE) held their Christmas Luncheon at Midway Barbeque, with the Taylor High School 

Expressions performing a variety of Christmas Carols. Many thanks to Midway Barbeque who is hosting KARE meetings until the Merrell 

Center is restored. For more information about the Katy Area Retired Educators check out our website at www.localunits.org/KARE/. 

WHY YOU SHOULD HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT 

YES, YOU! 

This time of year, the 100 or so high school exchange student programs 

in the U.S. are beginning to seek host families for the coming academic 

year for both one semester and full academic year students. 

• Residential 

• Small Offices 

• Bonded 


(No Place is Too Far) 

832-282-6055 

$ 

5 OFF 

FIRST 

VISIT 

About 28,000 students come to the U.S. each year for youth exchange 

programs of varying lengths. Not surprisingly, their motivations vary. 

They want to improve their English-speaking skills. They want to establish 

their independence from their parents. They want to see the America 

of Hollywood and the streets of New York. If they don’t have siblings, 

they would like one. They want to share the beauty and complexity of 

Japanese or Italian cooking. They want to play American football and 

be on the cheerleading team. They want to travel and see new places. 

They want to live life as an American teenager. 

I think cultural exchanges, including hosting high school exchange students, 

offer benefits far beyond being “a good citizen.” Beyond actually 

learning about another culture and how things might be done differently 

on a daily basis, it challenges one’s assumptions about other cultures, 

teaches communication skills and helps develop patience and flexibility. 

Few experiences can teach you - and your children - the small but critical 

differences between cultures as living with someone from another 

country. 

The benefits to America children - both our own children and others 

who are attending school with exchange students - are significant in 

ways that are difficult (if not impossible) to quantify. It’s not something 

adults often think about. Even school administrators don’t always think 

through how exposure to other cultures can benefit students in their 

districts. Think about communication for just a moment. Although 

your children will, of course, speak English to their exchange student, 

the potential for miscommunication is huge when you are talking to 

non-native English speakers. The processes of learning how to re-shape 


your thoughts, speak more clearly and make sure what you intend to 

say is what is heard are important skills. Think about your assumptions 

about other cultures - your assumptions and those of your children 

and their friends, about another country’s foods, habits or attitudes. 

Think about relationships and learning how to adapt, become more 

cooperative and developing an ability to be flexible. 

You *do* have something to offer. 

Many families tell me they can’t host because “we aren’t a good host 

family.” People assume they must be outgoing, that they need to be 

a family that travels a lot or that they must be a family that goes to 

museums, events and activities all the time. People assume that it is 

critical for a host family to live in a big city so it will be “fun” for a teen, 

that it is important to provide a student with his or her own bedroom 

or that they must live near the high school. Many people assume you 

must have a high school student in your home in order to host a high 

school exchange student. The list of “why we’re not a good family” goes 

on, but most of these pre-conceptions simply aren’t accurate. Is it nice 

to travel with your student? Of course, because it’s fun to share your 

city, your state or your country’s beautiful places. But not everyone 

travels much. Is it nice to live next to the high school? Of course. But 

let’s face it, most people don’t. Is it “fun” for a teen to live in the city? 

Sure. But nice people who have the desire, capability and emotional 

intelligence to be a host family live everywhere. 

The truth is, there is no typical American host family, because there is 

no single “typical” American family. American host families have teens 

and don’t have teens. They have young children and toddlers. They 

have children who are now grown and living elsewhere or no children 

at all. They have dogs or not, large homes or small ones. Single parents 

are families, as are grandparents. American families live in large 

cities, suburban areas and in small communities. The students are not 

here to travel, have a tour guide, just have “fun” or to have an easy 

life with a five-minute school commute. They’re here to go to school, 

learn about our country, live with a family and to learn what life is like 


for an American teen. They can play on the soccer team or have a role 

in the school play no matter where they live and no matter what the 

composition of their host family. 

The key to hosting a student is not in who is in your family, but who 

you are as people. Good host families are people who want to share 

their own culture and community and learn about someone else’s. 

Good host parents look to give their families a glimpse of the world 

and introduce them to new customs and cultures. 

STS Foundation is currently looking for host families in our area. If 

you are interested in hosting a student and enjoying this enriching 

experience, please contact Vicki Odom at 832-455-7881 or email me 

at vicki.stsfoundation@gmail.com for more information. 

Roof Leaking? 

Specialized in Roof Repairs 

Our Family Trade Since 1945 

• Whole Roofs & Roof Repairs 

• Seamless Gutters & Downspouts 

• Wall Flashing 

• Soffit & Fascia 

• Skylights & Chimneys 

• Window Replacement 

• Other Difficult Repairs 

281-391-8257 

www.callenroofing.com 

WE FIX IT RIGHT 

THE FIRST TIME! 

17

T 

E 

X 

A 

S 

JOIN US FOR THE $50,000 GSEC 

SHOW JUMPING GRAND PRIX 

The Olympic sport of Grand Prix show jumping blends the excitement of thoroughbred 

racing and the thrills of downhill Slalom skiing! Horse and Rider combine as a team 

providing a level of excitement that is unmatched in most other sports. 

FEBRUARY 24TH, 2018 

PRE SHOW- 6:30PM, GRAND PRIX - 7:30PM 

PARKING $10 

Great Southwest Equestrian Center 

2501 S Mason Road 

Katy, Tx 77450 

Katy, Texas 

GSWEC.com 

For event information contact Val Garza (210) 870-4584 

Artwork: “Leap of Faith” © Joanna Zeller Quentin www.MoosePantsStudio.com 


DATED EVENTS 

GRAEME’S RUN 5K & 1 MILE WALK 

February 10, 2018 

No Label Brewery 

Registration 8:30 AM, Run Starts at 9 AM 

Family Entertainment: Face Painting, Bounce Houses, Food Trucks, 

Raffle, Chris Boise and Righteous Cause Band 

Register & Learn More: www.graemessuperheroes.org 

*All funds raised benefit The Children’s Heart Foundation 

MARVEL COMIC - BLACK PANTHER MOVIE VIEWING 

Acorn to EXcellence is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded 

to promote interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and 

Mathematics), entrepreneurship and business related fields. Acorn 

to EXcellence in association with the Epsilon Chi Chapter of Iota 

Phi Lambda Sorority will host a movie viewing event for the highly 

anticipated Marvel Comic ‘BLACK PANTHER.’ During the reception 

meet the “community superheros and sheroes” comprised of 

professionals, athletes and business people who have made an 

impact to society. 

This will be a fun-filled event for adults and children. Special guests, 

private reception, door prizes and more! Tickets are tax deductible 

and are $20, which includes reception, seating, drink and popcorn. 

Purchase tickets at https://blackpanthermovie.eventbrite.com. 

The reception and movie viewing will be held at the Regal Grand 

Parkway 22 Cinemas at 7301 Grand Parkway, Richmond, TX on Sunday, 

February 18, 2018, 2-6 PM. Sponsorship opportunities are available. 

Help to positively shape the direction of our youth through the richness 

of this movie and give them motivation to dream big! Contact: Donna 

Mitchell at acorntoexcellence@gmail.com or 832-844-8265. 

SPORTING CLAY TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER 

Benefiting The Ballard House (501©3) 

Once again, The Ballard House will be having its annual Sporting 

Clay Tournament Fundraiser at the Westside Sporting Grounds 

(Brookshire, TX) on Saturday, February 24, 2018. 

Executive Director, Kathy Alt states, “This is an important time in 

the life of our organization after being effected by Hurricane Harvey. 

The Ballard House is still rebuilding and will reopen soon and be 

even bigger and better than before due to all the hard work of our 

volunteers and people in the greater Katy area.” 


The Sporting Clay Tournament is tremendous in helping to raise the 

necessary operational funds to keep the doors open at The Ballard 

House. Teams compete with their shooting skills for fun and fundraising 

to benefit this great cause. Teams and individuals can register on the 

website or by calling the number provided. Lots of sporting activities 

are planned throughout the day with the tournament starting at 9 

AM and concluding with lunch and a program. The Ballard House 

provides a safe, family-friendly environment and home-away-fromhome 

for those undergoing life threatening illnesses and treatment in 

the Houston area, all at no-cost. Patients come to The Ballard House 

from all over the United States and World. If you would like more 

information about this topic, please contact Mary Raines at 281-804- 

8414 or email at mary.raines@att.net. 

JOIN US FOR THE $50,000 GSEC SHOW 

JUMPING GRAND PRIX 

FEBRUARY 24, 2018 

The Olympic sport of Grand Prix show jumping blends the excitement 

of thoroughbred racing and the thrills of downhill Slalom skiing! 

Horse and Rider combine as a team providing a level of excitement 

that is unmatched in most other sports. 

PRE SHOW- 6:30 PM 

GRAND PRIX - 7:30 PM PARKING $10 

Great Southwest Equestrian Center 

2501 S Mason Road - Katy, Tx 77450 

GSWEC.com 

For event information contact Val Garza 210-870-4584. 

1 ST ANNUAL REIGN OVER 

CANCER WALK 

FEBRUARY 25, 2018 

Due to the massive flooding the Katy 

community experienced as a result of 

Hurricane Harvey and the continued 

efforts to recover from the devastation it 

caused, the Reign Over Cancer (“ROC”) 

Walk has been postponed until Sunday, 

February 25, 2018. The walk will be held at 

Cane Island and will begin at 2 PM. Plan to stick around after the walk 

to enjoy complimentary food and beverages, music and family-friendly 

activities. 

The ROC Walk will recognize people in the community currently 

undergoing cancer treatment, highlight survivors and raise money 

to fund GEST Foundation grants. Register as an individual or a team 

online at www.GESTfoundation.org. Proceeds from the ROC Walk will 

provide grants for services including grocery delivery, home cleaning, 

home wound care, transportation or even counseling to help with the 

internal wounds that come with facing the news “you have cancer.” 

The walk will be fun for ALL ages, so grab your family and friends and 

join us at the beautiful Cane Island for an afternoon of fun while raising 

money for a very important cause. 

Registration for the ROC Walk is still open and we encourage everyone 

to sign up! Register now at www.GESTFoundation.org. For up to 

19

WATER DAMAGE 

SPECIALIST 

FREE 

Apple iPad 

with minimum purchase. 

Call for details. 

Not valid with any other offer. 

Expires 5/31/18. 

Roofing, Remodeling, Restoration 

Interior & Exterior Painting • Drywall • Flooring 

Windows • Siding • Water Extraction / Drying Out 

936-777-5992 

www.elementsgogreen.com 


Licensed and Insured for Your Protection 

the minute race information and updates, follow us on Facebook. 

Sponsorship opportunities for the Reign Over Cancer Walk are still 

available! We have several options to fit all marketing needs and budgets. 

Contact Aaron or Michelle Perzan at 956-832-9187 or 956-832-1988. 

For more information about the GEST Foundation, Inc., how to donate 

or become a walk sponsor or how to submit a grant for financial 

support, please contact Michelle Perzan at 832-377-1367, 956-832-9188 

or email via at michelle.perzan@gestfoundation.com. 

2 ND ANNUAL KATY TASTE FEST 

www.KatyTasteFest.com 

Katy Taste Fest, the city’s first festival for foodies will again be held 

at Villagio Town Center March 24, 2018, 11 AM-2 PM. The festival 

celebrates all things food from some of the best Katy restaurants. It is 

a foodies’ paradise with emphasis on food, family and fun. The festival 

will focus on celebrating the diversity of the local restaurant scene with 

bites from 30 local restaurants, cooking demonstrations, beer/wine, 

a large kids zone, live entertainment and a silent auction. Fun for the 

whole family! Our inaugural event was a HUGE success with more than 

800 attendees and raised more than $13,000 for our local non-profit 

partners. We aim to exceed that number in 2018! 

NEW: This year’s event will feature a VIP Jazz Brunch: This is an 

opportunity to discover your new go-to favorites while savoring 

comfort foods you’ve loved for years. We have something for everyone 

from adults to kids. Katy Taste Fest has partnered with several local 

nonprofits that focus on abused, neglected and abandoned children 

including Katy Cares, Krause Children’s Center and Armor of Hope 

Foundation. Details and ticket information will be available on 

www.KatyTasteFest.com. 

About Katy Taste Fest: Katy Taste Fest aspires to turn tasters into diners. 

The festival explores the city’s diverse dining scene by sampling tastes 

from local restaurants. Attendees can enjoy cooking demonstrations, 

live entertainment, a silent auction and family-friendly activities for 

food lovers of all ages. Katy Taste Fest supports several local charities 

that focus on vulnerable children, including Katy Cares, ZOE, Krause 

Children’s Center, Helping Kids Ministry and Armor of Hope Foundation. 

Christy, Linda & Courtney Wade - An Award Winning Team! 

CHRISTY WADE 

Sales & Marketing Specialist 

REALTOR ® 

832.483.0630 

cwade@garygreene.com 

LINDA WADE 

Broker Associate 

Relocation Specialist 

281.728.7999 

wadelrt@garygreene.com 

COURTNEY WADE 

Sales & Marketing Specialist 

REALTOR ® 

832.752.2670 

courtney.wade@garygreene.com 

Whether you’re interested in buying or selling, 

you deserve a team that puts your interests first... 

We’ll be there for you! We’ll listen and take the time 

to find out what’s important to you and your family. 

When you contact us, we’ll develop a marketing strategy that 

helps you achieve the results YOU want ... a better bottom line 

with the least inconvenience to you and your family. 

©2012 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC fully 

supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Better Homes 

and Gardens, the Better Homes and Garden Real Estate logo are registered service marks owned by Meredith Corporation and licensed to Better 

Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. 

CALL FOR ARTISTS: 

BAYOU CITY 

ART FESTIVAL 

MEMORIAL PARK 2018 

Bayou City Art Festival, 

produced by Art Colony 

Association, Inc. (ACA), is 

inviting artists from around the 

country to submit applications 

and have the opportunity to showcase their art at the nation’s premier 

spring outdoor fine art event Friday-Sunday, March 23-25, 2018. 

ACA produces Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park in the spring and 

Bayou City Art Festival Downtown in the fall. Now entering its 47 th year, 

ACA has provided a venue for over 20,000 artists to showcase their 

work to thousands of art lovers from all over the world. Patrons have 

the opportunity to personally meet the artist, view original works and 

purchase world class art. The festival benefits local non-profits and 

features music, food, beverages, entertainment, a Children’s Creative 

Zone and much more for people of all ages to come and enjoy the city 

and the festival. 

Twice a year, over 1,000 qualified applicants from 19 different disciples 

submit their applications to be reviewed by the ACA jurors. For each 

festival, a new juror panel is invited and consists of artists, collectors 

and industry professionals. The panel of five to seven jurors are 

selected based on their specific interests, professional knowledge and 


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background with the festival. Only 300 artists 

will be selected to exhibit at the 2018 Bayou 

City Art Festival Memorial Park. Cash Prizes 

are awarded for “Best in Show,” second and 

third, as selected by on-site judges. Ribbons 

are awarded for “Best Booth” and all winners 

receive jury exempt status for two years as well 

as priority booth placement. 

Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are 

available. For more information, please visit 

www.artcolonyassociation.org. For updates on 

social media, follow the official event hashtags 

#HouArtFest and #BCAF, like the Facebook page 

or follow on Twitter and Instagram. 

THEATER/ ARTS 

KATY VISUAL & 

PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 

(KVPAC) www.kvpac.org 

2501 S Mason Rd., Suite 290, Katy, TX 77450 

Season Tickets, including all new FLEX 

Packages, are on-sale now to lock-in the best 

price and choice seat. Pre-Sale Show Tickets 

are $15 Adults and $12 Seniors. Tickets 

increase by $3 at the door. Group rates are 

available at www.kvpac.org or in person. For 


Katy audience members who seek an evening 

at the theater, they can look to Encore Players 

as a source to enjoy the theater in their own 

home town without the long commute or 

high cost involved with heading to one of 

downtown Houston’s theaters. Katy Visual & 

Performing Arts Center (KVPAC) is a non-profit 

arts education organization helping artists 

find their light since 2001. 

THE HOUSTON CHORAL SOCIETY 

For more information, please visit the HCS 

website at www.houstonchoral.org. 

MILDRED’S UMBRELLA THEATER CO. 

MAINSTAGE SEASON 

All Shows at Studio 101, 

1824 Spring Street #101, Houston TX 77007 

WELL By: Lisa Kron February 1 st -3 rd at 8 PM 

MORE INFO/RESERVATIONS: 

www.mildredsumbrella.com, 

info@mildredsumbrella.com or 832-463-0409. 

STAGEWORKS THEATRE 

SPELLING BEE - Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, 

Sundays at 3 PM, January 19-February 11, 2018 

Stageworks Theatre is located at 

10760 Grant Road, Houston, Texas 77070. 

Website: www.stageworkshouston.org. 

NATURE PROGRAMS FOR 

PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN 

SATURDAYS IN NATURE 

This program is held on the fourth Saturday 

of each month at the Edith L. Moore Nature 

Sanctuary, held between 1 and 4 PM. A guided 

nature walk will begin at 2 PM. No reservations 

required. Donations are encouraged. This is 

a “whole family” program; parents or other 

adult guardians should participate with 

their children. Park in the Memorial Drive 

United Methodist Church parking lot at 12955 

Memorial Drive, enter the nature sanctuary 

through the marked gate and proceed on the 

path to the log cabin. Upcoming programs 

include January: Migration - Craft: Flying 

Duck. February: We Love Wildlife - Craft: 

Animal Valentines. 

The Titmouse Club 

The Titmouse Club is a nature program for 

children ages 2 ½ to 5 sponsored by the 

Houston Audubon Docent Guild. The program 

is offered every Tuesday and Wednesday 

morning, 10 to 11 AM, from mid-September 

until mid-May at the Edith L. Moore Nature 

Sanctuary, 440 Wilchester Boulevard. Each 

week features a different nature theme and 

may include nature talks, stories, hands-on 

activities and walks in the woods. For more 

information, go to www.houstonaudubon.org 

and look under Audubon Docents. The cost 

is $5 per child per session or a 5-session card 

can be purchased for $20. The child must be 

21

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accompanied by an adult during the program. Park in the Memorial 

Drive United Methodist Church parking lot at 12955 Memorial Drive, 

enter the nature sanctuary through the marked gate and proceed on 

the path to the log cabin. Upcoming programs include: 

February 6 th & 7 th : Art in Nature 

February 13 th & 14 th : Animal Valentines 

February 20 th & 21 st : What Do Animals Eat? 

February 27 th & 28 th : Nature Detectives 

March 6 th & 7 th : Gardening for Kids 

March 13 th & 14 th : (no mtg. - Spring Break Camp) 

March 20 th & 21 st : Butterflies & Moths 

March 27 th & 28 th : Animal Babies 

After School Nature Explorers Club 

Nature Explorers Club is designed for school-age children (ages 6-10, 

K-5 th ) who are interested in investigating the natural world. Each month 

we will explore a different ecology topic, focusing on our own native 

plants and animals. We will make a craft to take home, go on a nature 

hike, dip-net for fish and tadpoles in the ponds and get to know the 

plants and animals of the Bayou City! Fee/reservations are required. 

Reserve your child’s spot at www.houstonaudubon.org. For more 

information contact Bethany Foshee, Docent Programs Coordinator, 

bfoshee@houstonaudubon.org or 713-932-1639. Upcoming programs 

include: 

February 15 th : Wildlife Valentines 

March 22 nd : Baby Animals 

OWL PROWLS 

Houston Audubon Docent Guild sponsors 4 owl prowls for the 2017- 

18 season. Owl prowls begin with a lively program on owls including 

an opportunity to meet live, rehabilitated owls followed by a walk in 

the woods in search of wild owls. For more information, to reserve 

and pay online go to www.houstonaudubon.org. Owl Prowl dates are 

February 2, 2018 and March 9, 2018. Owl Prowls start at 7 PM, end at 9 

PM and begin in the log cabin at the Edith L Moore Nature Sanctuary. 

The fee is $12 for adults and $8 for children (ages 6-17). All prowlers 

must be at least 6 years of age and there must be at least one adult 

present for each two children. Dress for walking in the woods and the 

weather. Please park in the Memorial Drive United Methodist Church 

west parking lot at 12955 Memorial Drive or the Sanctuary’s small lot 

at 440 Wilchester. Pre-registration is required and there is a maximum 

number of participants for each prowl. 

COMMUNITY HEROES 

VOLUNTEER TO BE AN EVERYDAY HERO 

Volunteer firefighting 

is one of the most 

rewarding experiences 

you’ll ever have. 

Community VFD offers 

free fire training and 

volunteering is a 

great way to make a 

difference personally 

while having a 

positive impact in your 

community. Volunteers 

can fight fires, drive apparatuses, extract patients from vehicles 

at accident scenes, etc. 

Community VFD also provides emergency medical services (EMS) 

and provides opportunities for individuals with a Texas EMS 

certification to serve their community. 

Visit www.communityvfd.org 

or email Chief Steve Fowler at sfowler@communityvfd.com. 


Engagement Stories 

featuring your neighbors! 

Chelsea & William 

What was supposed to be a family vacation to Las Vegas/the Grand Canyon 

the week before Thanksgiving, ended up turning into the most picture 

perfect proposal. The morning we were supposed to leave for the Grand 

Canyon, I wasn’t feeling well, and said I would stay back. However, William 

was very insistent that I come. I took some medicine, got ready really 

quickly, and we hopped into the car for our grand excursion. When we got 

to the Grand Canyon, it was freezing outside (to Texans of course!) and 

there was even some snow on the ground. It looked so magical (especially 

considering I have only seen snow a couple of times)! As I was getting out 

of the car, I noticed that one of my fake nails had fallen off (I had gotten my 

nails done the week prior) ON MY LEFT HAND! William’s mother had 

asked, “what hand did the nail fall off from?”, which I thought was a funny 

question to ask. When we got to the Grand Canyon, we stopped to take 

pictures (and get me a jacket because I did NOT plan for freezing weather). 

During one picture, William had bent down to sit for the picture, but in 

my head I was thinking “THIS IS IT! THERE IS WHERE WE GET EN- 

GAGED!” My heart started racing and I was so excited. But....all that was said was, “Chelsea, sit down so we can take the picture.” I was slightly disappointed, 

but I wouldn’t let it ruin my time. We went to go grab a bite to eat, and William and his family were asking when sunset was so we could go to one final stop: 

Yavapai Point. By the time we got there, I was freezing and felt like my hands and legs were going numb and was apprehensive to take more pictures. Then, in 

the most perfect spot, right as we were posing for a picture, William got down on one knee and showed me the most beautiful ring that he picked out himself. 

I didn’t even let him talk I was so in shock that I just went in for a giant hug. When his family asked what I said, I responded with, “oh he never asked!” He 

officially asked, I said “YES!!!!!!!”, and the rest of our “grand” love story is history! 

Lisa & Matt 

My wife and I met on a blind date – we were immediately attracted 

to each other. Later, when the time came, I wanted to have the 

perfect way to propose to her, so I conspired with my mother to 

create the ‘perfect day’. First, my sister, Rachel, took a picture 

of me at our favorite place – Castlewood State Park outside of St. 

Louis, Missouri. From this picture, a wooden jigsaw puzzle was 

created – the largest piece in the center being a sign with my special 

message… ‘Lisa, Will You Marry Me?’. The remaining pieces 

of the puzzle were randomly divided into handmade velvet bags 

that each had a handwritten calligraphy poem on them created 

by me describing a new location for the ‘Treasure Hunt’. Each location 

has some significance since it was a place where we had 

experienced something special together. At the last location, I 

presented her with the final piece and the diamond ring. My wife 

is a very special person who has given me so much…I love her. 


Violet & TJ 

"They" say that after a storm, comes a rainbow....it turns out that "they" 

are correct. I met my fiancé, TJ, about 20 years ago. Nothing became 

of it, except seeing the familiar face from time to time throughout the 

years. On July 15, I ran into the familiar face, yet once again. Except this 

time, it was God's timing and we were engaged on September 16. He is 

the biggest teddy bear with the kindest soul. He is the happily ever after 

that me & daughters needed for so long.... We will say "I do" on 2/11/18. 23

School 

News 

KATY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 

WWW.KATYISD.ORG 

IMPORTANT DATES 

February 16 th - 

Early Dismissal for Campus Professional Learning 

February 19 th - 

District Professional Learning Day - Student Holiday 

KATY ISD FRANZ ELEMENTARY 

CELEBRATES NEW SPARK PARK 

Waving “Thank You” signs and singing along to a melodious gratitude 

song, the Franz Elementary (FES) Choir officially dedicated 

their new SPARK Park, which is now available for public use during 

non-school hours and on weekends. 

This park is a collaborative effort between Katy ISD, FES parents, 

students, staff, the PTA, as well as local entities, who together 

contributed to the SPARK grant, which was just under $130,000. 

Fundraising efforts included a $5,000 donation from the PTA and a 

week-long of SPARK fundraising activities at the school, that included 

taping the principal to a wall, crazy hair day and water games that 

included popsicles, of which $2,150 was collected. Other funding 

included $1,000 from the West Harris County MUD #7, $1,000 from 

Raintree Village Homeowner’s Association and the design work was 

paid for by Katy ISD. SPARK contributed $116,000 from The Kinder 

Foundation and Houston Endowment park desert initiative. 

The park includes a concrete trail, sensory play panels, musical instruments 

and four bollards covered with tiles painted by students 

and staff. When visitors walk through the park, they will notice a 

variety of trees, which include Monterrey oaks, Mexican plums and 

anacua trees. In total, 34 trees were donated by Trees for Houston. 

Principal Sylvan shared, “It has been said that ‘A true community is 

not just about being geographically close to someone or a part of 

the same social network.’ It’s about feeling connected and responsible 

for what happens. Humanity is our ultimate community and 

everyone plays a crucial role.” 

“We hope during the break, you will come and enjoy this park,” 

added Ashley Vann, Katy ISD Board of Trustees President. 

SPARK, an organization created in 1983 to increase park and recreational 

spaces in the Greater Houston area, has helped to turn 

underutilized school playgrounds into neighborhood parks at more 

than 200 locations. This is the third SPARK Park at a Katy ISD school. 

CINCO RANCH HIGH 

FOUR KATY-AREA ROBOTICS TEAMS ADVANCE TO FIRST LEGO 

LEAGUE REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT 

The Cinco Ranch Junior High gym echoed with the sound of cheering 

as the CRyptonite robotics team from Cinco Ranch High School (CRHS) 

hosted their seventh annual FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition 

of Science and Technology) LEGO® League Katy Qualifier robotics 

tournament. Of the 24 teams competing, four from the Katy-area and 

two others earned a coveted “Golden Ticket” to advance to the FIRST 

LEGO League Texas South Region Championship Tournament, which 

was held January 27, 2018 at the British International School in Katy 

(www.fllhouston.com/previewchamp). 

FIRST LEGO League is an annual international robotics competition 

for students from 4 th to 8 th grade in teams of two to ten members. The 

teams create and program robots using LEGO MINDSTORMS technology 

to solve as many pre-determined missions as possible in a 2 ½ minute 

time period. They also research a real-world problem and create and 

present a solution to judges, all while demonstrating core values, such 

as having fun, gracious professionalism® and coopertition®. CRyptonite 

is a FIRST Robotics Competition team from Cinco Ranch High School 

that builds more advanced robots to compete in international competitions 

for high school-age students. The team is dedicated to developing 

engineering, problem-solving and teamwork skills. In addition to 

organizing and running the Katy Qualifier, CRyptonite members who 

were previously on FIRST Lego League teams helped coach three of the 

Katy-area teams that are advancing. 

According to Bella Riffle, CRHS senior and fourth year CRyptonite team 

member, who was Student Coordinator for the tournament, “CRyptonite 

is dedicated to developing the next generation of scientists 

and engineers and this tournament helps support that goal.” To this 

end, a Rookie Coach Award was given to Alex Dial for his work with the 

Computerized Coyotes team from Beck Jr. High. Dial, a second-year 

member of CRyptonite, was a on a FIRST LEGO League team at Beck. 

Added Kyna McGill, first year CRyptonite member and announcer for 

the qualifier, who also mentored an advancing team, “FIRST taught me 

many valuable lessons about teamwork, project management and more 

and motivated me to continue in robotics. Several team members are 

using this knowledge to help develop and give back to younger teams.” 


Qualifier Award Recipients 

Teams which won awards in the individual phases of the competition 

and received a Golden Ticket to compete in the FIRST LEGO League Texas 

South Region Championship Tournament in January were: 

• Champions Award - Banshees (Team 31103): Houston (rookie team) 

• Programming - Beck-O-Bytes (Team 15593): Beck Jr. High, Katy 

• Research - Brainiac Maniacs (Team 25108): Girl Scouts of San Jacinto 

County, Katy (Elementary age) 

• Presentation - Symbiotes (Team 30582): Beck Jr. High, Katy 

(rookie team) 

• Innovative Solutions - Cyberwolves (Team 13764): Beck Jr. High, Katy 

• Strategy and Innovation - Computerized Coyotes (Team 34795): 

Beck Jr. High, Katy (rookie team) 

Other awards presented at the tournament were: 

• Teamwork - SLJH1 (Team 21405): Seven Lakes Jr. High, Katy 

• Mechanical Design - Memorial Parkway Eagles Two (Team 27461): 

Memorial Pkwy Jr. High, Katy (rookie team) 

• Inspiration - Sabercats (Team 24061): Smith Middle School, 

Cypress (rookie team) 

• Gracious Professionalism - Bulldog Bots (Team 35602): 

Richmond (rookie team) 

• Robot Score - Brainiac Maniacs (Team 25108): Girl Scouts of 

San Jacinto County, Katy (Elementary age) 

For more information, please visit www.team624.org. 

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SEVEN LAKES BEST BUDDIES 

Seven Lakes High School Best Buddies hosted their Thanksgiving and 

Holiday parties in November and December. Participants got to enjoy 

snacks, dancing and crafts. The Best Buddies program, in high schools, 

fosters one-to-one friendships between high school students with 

and without IDD. The Best Buddies High Schools program helps break 

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For more information, go to www.bestbuddies.org. 


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Library 

News 

BEST BUDDIES MASQUERADE GALA 

AND FASHION SHOW 

Reagan Kallina and Alyssa Tran represented 

Seven Lakes High School Best Buddies at the 

Best Buddies Masquerade Gala and Fashion 

show held in downtown Houston in November. 

They walked the runway wearing fashions 

provided by Elaine Turner. The event brought 

in over $230,000 - money that will be used 

to help Best Buddies Texas expand in local 

elementary schools, middle schools and high 

schools in 2018. Best Buddies is the world’s 

largest organization dedicated to ending the 

social, physical and economic isolation of 

the 200 million people with intellectual and 

developmental disabilities (IDD). For more 

information and how to become involved, go 

to www.bestbuddies.org. 

FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARIES (FBCL) 

Public Information Office - 281-633-4734 

www.fortbend.lib.tx.us 

FAMILY READING CLUB - THROUGH-MARCH 3 RD 

This six-week program is designed to encourage families to read, learn and have fun together. 

Families participate in the program by reading books and completing optional “challenges” 

that can be done at home. All Fort Bend County families are eligible to participate. Families who 

complete the program by reading 36 books - 6 books per week - are eligible to receive a book 

bag for the family and will have their named entered into a drawing for a $50 dining gift card, 

donated by the Friends of the Library. Each branch library will have a drawing for the gift card 

on March 5 th . A single registration is required for each participating family. An adult (parent or 

guardian) is asked to register the family online by going to the library’s website (www.fortbend. 

lib.tx.us) and clicking on the “Family Reading Club Sign-Up” image. Families may also register at 

one of the libraries in the Fort Bend County library system. Upon registering, families will then 

have their own online page on which to record their books or reading time. There is no charge 

to join the Family Reading Club. The program is sponsored by Fort Bend County Libraries and 

the Friends of the Library organizations that support the county library system. 


Air Conditioning Contractors of America 

CINCO RANCH BRANCH LIBRARY (FT. BEND CO. LIB.) 

2620 Commercial Center Blvd., Katy, TX 77494, 281-395-1311, 

Hours Mon. 12 Noon - 9 PM, Tues. 10 AM - 9 PM, Wed. 10 AM - 6 PM, 

Thurs. 10 AM - 9 PM, Fri. 12 Noon - 5 PM, Sat. 10 AM - 5 PM, Sun. Closed. 

To register online for any classes at the library’s website (www.fortbend. 

lib.tx.us), click on “Calendar,” select “Cinco Ranch Branch Library” and 

find the program. Participants may also register by calling the library at 

281-395-1311 or by visiting the library. 

SPECIAL EVENTS 

• INCOME-TAX-PREPARATION ASSISTANCE - Mondays, 1-5 PM, 

Meeting Room. Representatives from the AARP will provide free income-tax-preparation 

assistance for low-income taxpayers. Patrons 

should bring the following information to the session if possible: photo 

ID; Social Security card(s) for self, spouse and all dependents; last year’s 

tax return; W-2, 1099s and any other compensation received in 2017; unemployment 

compensation statements and any other documents that 

are necessary to complete your return. This service is free and open to 

the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Income-tax forms are not 

available at the libraries, but patrons may use the libraries’ computers 

and printers to download and print out the forms from the IRS website, 

www.irs.gov, during regular library hours. A library card is needed to 

use the printers and the cost to print is 10¢ per black-and-white page. 

• CHESS DAY @ THE LIBRARY - Saturday, February 3 rd , 10:30 AM-2:30 

PM, Meeting Room. People of all ages and skill levels - from beginners to 

advanced - who are interested in playing chess, are invited to practice 

their strategies while playing against others in a relaxed, stress-free 

environment. Learn a new chess move (or two) during this come-andgo 

activity. Experienced players will be on hand to provide tips and 

assistance. A limited number of chess sets will be provided, but players 

are welcome to bring their own sets as well. 

• HEALTHCARE AND YOUR RETIREMENT - Saturday, February 10 th , 

10:30-11:30 AM, Multi-purpose Room. Leslie Corley, a financial advisor, 

will talk about the steps investors should take to prepare for healthcare 

costs after retirement. Get tips on ways to prepare for Medicare and longterm 

care costs while maintaining a healthy retirement-savings account. 

• JOB & CAREER ACCELERATOR DEMONSTRATION - Monday, February 

12 th , 12 noon-1 PM, Computer Lab. This easy-to-use online resource can 

help job-hunters who are searching for a job or a new career. Learn how 

to create professional resumés and cover letters, get detailed and current 

information on a variety of occupations, match personal interests 

and skills with a desired career, improve interviewing skills and much 

more. The database includes detailed information on more than 1,000 

different occupations and matches interests and skills with possible 

careers. It also provides more than five million up-to-the-minute local 

and national job postings. Reservations required. 

• JOB-SEARCH SURVIVAL WORKSHOP - Monday & Tuesday, February 

12 th and 13 th , 5:30-8:30 PM, Multipurpose Room. This workshop is 

designed to help all job-hunters, from those applicants applying for a 

position at a fast-food restaurant to executives looking for a position in a 

large company. The tips that are presented can help any applicant plan 

a more efficient job hunt and make a more favorable impression. Learn 

how to write a better resumé, research prospective employers, interview 

for a job, improve non-verbal skills, make a great first impression, network 

and much more. Reservations not required. Late arrivals welcome. 

Different topics each night. Refreshments are provided courtesy of the 

Friends of the Cinco Ranch Branch Library. 

• ANCIENT EMPIRES-GREECE - Saturday, February 17 th , 1-3 PM, 

Multi-purpose Room. In this second of three programs on Ancient Empires, 

former architecture professor Sheba Akhtar will talk about the 

roles that topography, mythology and science have played in the history 

and development of Greece. She will talk about the country’s city-states, 

philosophy, drama, art and architecture of the classical period, as well 

as Alexander the Great, the conquest of Asia Minor, Persia and Egypt 

during the Hellenistic period. She will also touch upon Mycenae, the 

Trojan War and Homer. 

• COLLEGE FAIR - Thursday, February 22 nd , 6-7:30 PM, Meeting Room. 

Representatives from colleges and universities will be on hand to share 

information about their programs with current high school students 


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27

Family 

Focus 

Love is in the Air 

How They Express It: “Something you will hear many times a day in our home is one person will say ‘Love y’all’ and you will hear all the 

other family members reply with ‘Love y’all.’ Levi is usually the first one to prompt this but we all do it when we want to. I think this 

makes our family unique because we do remind each other through our love language of what we mean to each other, daily.” 

Celebrating Valentine’s Day: The family gets in the spirit of this holiday by enjoying mom’s decorating in a special part of their home, 

and indulging in a nice meal together at home or at a restaurant. They give each other special tokens of their admiration for each 

other and of course, enjoy creating, crafting and delivering their Valentines. 

What Makes It Tick: They love reminding their family and friends about how much they mean to them, which is what Valentine’s Day is 

all about for this tribe. Keeping in mind how much Jesus loves them and how He asks them to love one another is also an important 

reflection on this holiday. 

Why They Love Living in Katy 

“Our family has lived in Katy for over 30 years and we couldn’t imagine our children 

growing up in a better city. Katy has the hometown feel of the both small towns 

that Patrick and Melissa were born in. Patrick is originally from Lumberton, Texas 

and Melissa was born in Hardinsburg, Kentucky. People in Katy are friendly and 

always willing to lend a helping hand to their neighbors. Katy is “country” with all the 

amenities of the city and Houston is close enough that if you want to see a major 

sporting event, concert, theater, etc., you are able to. We love the people and 

pride in Tigerland!” 

What They Love to Do 

This family most enjoys the local parks in Katy, feeding ducks and being in the 

outdoors. They love to explore the local businesses in Old Katy, especially antique 

and resale shops where hidden treasures are often found. The Katy Rice Harvest 

Festival is one of their most anticipated events of the year, as well as the parade 

and the Katy Rodeo. 

We Would OVE 

to Feature 

Your Family! 

Each month, one family will 

be chosen from one of our 

communities. 

To feature your family, email 

familyfocus@krenekprinting.com 

Family Roster 

Dad: Patrick, Machine Shop 

Supervisor (Precision-Hayes, 

Sugar Land). Machinist for 

over 25 years, learned the 

trade in his dad’s machine 

shop in Beaumont, TX. Avid 

gun collector, enjoys spending 

time on the gun range. 

Mom: Melissa, Accounting (Linco 

Construction, Katy). Loves crafting, 

decorating, traveling and supporting 

her boys in all they do. World traveler 

and especially fond of Germany and 

German culture (spent many summers 

with grandparents there). Aspires to 

own a farm one day with cows, chickens 

lambs and lots of dogs. 

Koen: 11 YO boy. Loves to ride his hoverboard, 

bike and go-kart. An avid gamer, enjoys building 

things on his computer. Member of the National 

Junior Honor Society, loves joining various clubs 

at his school. Has played soccer with FFPS since 

he was four years old, has been a great way for 

the family to spend time together cheering him on. 

Aspires to be a singer and will be starting music 

and voice lessons in 2018! 

Levi: 8 YO boy. Enjoys playing outside, on 

his computer, and with friends. Greatest past 

time is spent building Lego sets. Has also 

played soccer with FFPS since he was four 

and the family loves cheering him on. Straight 

A student, made it to the finals at his school’s 

spelling bee this year. Wants to own a farm 

with mom one day and help raise all the 

animals, family calls him the “animal whisperer.” 

Atlas: 3 month old fur 

boy (mini schnauzer). 

Although he is a 

fur baby, he is most 

definitely one of the 

family – he fills their 

hearts with such joy. 

and parents or guardians. Learn about educational opportunities 

available at the colleges, as well as admission requirements, financial 

aid, student housing and more. For a list of colleges that will be here, 

check with the library. 

• GREYHOUND PETS OF AMERICA - Saturday, February 24 th , 10-11 AM, 

Meeting Room. Jessica Ford from Greyhound Pets of America/Houston 

will discuss the history of greyhounds. She will also talk about their 

care, their suitability as pets and the adoption process. Learn more 

about this breed of dog, their needs, energy levels and personalities. 

• ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES: All computer classes will take place in 

the Computer Lab. Reservations are required. 

MS Word Survival Basics: Tuesday, February 6 th , 10 AM 

MS Word: Intermediate: Tuesday, February 13 th , 10 AM 

MS Excel Survival Basics: Thursday, February 15 th , 10 AM 

MS Excel: Charts: Thursday, February 22 nd , 10 AM 

Introduction to Facebook: Monday, February 26 th , 12 Noon 

MS PowerPoint Survival Basics: Wednesday, February 28 th , 10 AM 

Open Computers Lab Q&A: Friday, February 16 th , 12 Noon, Learning 

Lab. (reservations not required) 

EVENTS 

• LITERARY LUNCH LEAGUE BOOK CLUB - Wednesday, February 7 th , 

12 Noon, Conference Classroom. The book to be discussed is News of 

the World, written by Paulette Jiles. Those attending are invited to 

bring a lunch, if desired. 

• CINCO RANCH NIGHT READERS - Thursday, February 15 th , beginning 

at 7 PM, in Conference Room. The book to be discussed is At the Water’s 

Edge, written by Sara Gruen. 

• BRIDGE NIGHT @ CINCO RANCH - Tuesdays, February 6 th and 20 th , 

6-8 PM, Multi-purpose Room. Bridge players of all ages and skill levels 

- from beginners to advanced - are invited to practice their strategies 

and share tips while playing against others in a relaxed, stress-free 

environment. On the 1 st and 3 rd Tuesdays of every month, the library 

will provide a fun, relaxed setting where Bridge players can gather to 

sharpen their skills and share their love of this popular card game 

with others. 

• ESL CONVERSATION CIRCLES - Fridays, February 9 th and 23 rd , 

1-2 PM; Multipurpose Room. Fort Bend County Libraries presents a 

program for individuals of all nationalities who would like a place to 

practice their English language and conversation skills. The “Conversation 

Circles” provide an opportunity for non-English-speaking people 

to gather in a relaxed setting and discuss topics of their own choosing 

while practicing their English skills. 

YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS teens grades 9-12 

• YA: VALENTINE CARDS - Wednesday, February 7 th , 4-5 PM, Conference 

Classroom. Teens in grades 9-12 will create custom Valentine’s 

Day cards for friends and family. 

• FREE SAT PRACTICE-TEST SESSION - Saturday, February 10 th , 10:30 

AM-3:30 PM, Meeting Room. A representative from Princeton Review will 

administer a practice test to college-bound students in grades 9 through 

12. This practice test will prepare students for the actual SAT test. The 

scores on this practice test will only be shared with the student; they will 

not be sent to any educational institutions. Bring two #2 pencils and a 

non-graphing calculator if available. Registration is required. 

• YOUNG ADULT BOOK CLUB - Wednesday, February 14 th , 4-5 PM, 

Conference Classroom. Teen readers will have the opportunity to 

meet with others who share the same love for great books and have a 

lively discussion on the reasons a book or its characters were liked or 

disliked. Those attending are invited to talk about Every Day, written 

by David Levithan. 

• YOUNG ADULT ADVISORY COUNCIL - Wednesday, February 28 th , 4-5 

PM, Conference Classroom. At this monthly meeting, teens in grades 

9-12 are invited to express ideas organize upcoming activities and 

suggest new programs and books that would be of interest to young 

adults at the library. Earn volunteer/service hours and meet new friends 

while helping to shape the future of library services for teens! 

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS 

(The library is unable to accommodate daycares and school groups 

at these activities.) 


• Mother Goose Time: Tuesdays 

at 10:15 AM, provides 

caregiver/infant activities 

and songs especially designed 

for the youngest 

book-lovers, from age 1 

month to 12 months. 

• Stories & Play: Tuesdays 

at 2 PM, for children from 1 

to 3 years of age. Children 

will be treated to a story and 

then have open play time. 

• Toddler Time: Wednesdays 

at 10:15 AM and Thursdays 

at 10:15 AM and 11:30 

AM - offers caregiver/child 

activities, stories and songs 

for older babies, from 12 to 

36 months of age. 

• Story Time: Wednesdays 

at 11:30 AM. Age 3-6, where 

they hear stories, watch 

movies and participate in 

age-appropriate craft activities. 

• Pajama Night Story Time: 

Tuesdays at 7 PM - gives 

families an evening option 

for the activities presented 

during the daytime. 

• Family Story Time: 1 st 

Saturday of the month at 

10:15 AM. All ages welcome. 

• Kinder Korner: 2 nd and 4 th 

Wednesday of the month 

at 4:30 PM. A time for kindergartners 

to enjoy stories, 

movies, crafts and other 

activities. 

• After-School Breaks: 1 st 

and 3 rd Wednesdays at 4:30 

PM. Crafts, movies and stories 

for school-aged children 

in grades 1 through 3. 

• Creative Connections: 4 th 

Saturdays at 2:30 PM. Activities 

for children in grades 4 

through 8. 

• Minecraft Monday: February 

26 th , 4:30 PM. Minecraft 

challenge for students in 

grades 4 through 8. Reservations 

required. 

All programs are free and 

open to the public. For more 

information, call the Cinco 

Ranch Branch Library at 

281-395-1311 or the library’s 

Public Information Office at 

281-633-4734. 

L-R, front row: Alyssa Reyher, Hailey Pausky, Karin Iligan and Paige Henrick. 

Back row: Bella Adams, Lauren Rothe, Dana Sheehan, Laci Gratkowski, Mayowa 

Olibale, Bridget Thompson and Coach Jerrick Cabrales. 

FO1 VOLLEYBALL 

Coming off the heels of their victory at the AAU National Championships in 

Orlando last season, FO1 Volleyball’s 15 Black Team came away with another 

victory at the FAST Warm Up Tournament here in Houston. This was the first 

tournament of the year and our local girls came away with seven straight victories 

to finish in first place. 


29

HOUSTON AREA EVENTS AND ROAD TRIPS 

FEBRUARY 2018 

February 2 nd -13 th - Mardi Gras Galveston. If you’re looking for a 

unique Mardi Gras experience in 2018, grab some beads and hit the 

beach! Mardi Gras! Galveston, the third largest Mardi Gras celebration 

in the United States, offers the unique chance to experience sand 

between your toes and gorgeous beach sunsets while taking in the 

revelry and lavish parades known to dominate Galveston Island 

during carnival season. The island’s 107 th Mardi Gras celebration, 

is expected to draw more than 350,000 attendees for 30+ concerts, 

parades, balcony parties and several elegant balls. At Mardi Gras! 

Galveston, the extravagance found in Texas’s largest Mardi Gras 

celebration starts with the beads! More than 3 million beads will be 

thrown at Mardi Gras! Galveston and that’s just the beginning of the 

elaborate parades, headliner performances, family events, feasting 

and other festivities that come with hosting Mardi Gras island style. 

For more information, visit www.galveston.com/mardigras/. 

February 7 th - The Houston RV Show is now the largest in Texas with 

over 600 units on display. This includes Motorhomes, Travel Trailers, 

Tent Campers, Fifth Wheels and Van Conversions. Recreational 

Vehicle related vendors representing campgrounds, resorts, parks 

and RV supplies. The Annual Houston RV Show will be in the NRG 

Center Halls C, D, E. Parking rate in the past was $12 per space, cash 

only. For more information, visit www.guestservices@nrgpark.com. 

February 8 th - Texas Monthly 2 nd Annual Whiskey Affair. A premium 

whiskey tasting event that will highlight up to 50 brown spirits and 

celebrate the whiskey lifestyle with delicious chef pairings, couture 

cocktails and live music provided by Doc Watkins, owner of Jazz, TX. 

Texas and international brown spirits makers will serve straight pours 

and cocktails from their portfolios with spirit seminars led by Texas 

Monthly Editor in Chief Tim Taliaferro and Wine & Spirits contributor 

Jessica Dupuy. The event will also feature up to ten award-winning 

chefs and mixologists serving dishes to compliment a wide array of 

whiskies. For more information, visit www.texasmonthly.com. 

February 9 th -11 th - Texas Home and Garden Spring Show. Houstons’ 

Premier “One Stop Shopping Opportunity” for all your home & 

garden needs. From Windows and Doors to Ceilings and Floors over 

700 experts, products, services and ideas all under one roof. Adult 

Tickets are $10, Seniors and Military $8 and children 14 and under 

free. For more information, visit www.guestservices@nrgpark.com. 

February 9 th -11 th - Tristar Collectors Show. Your trusted source for 

sports autographs, trading cards and collectibles. Tristar will be held 

in NRG Arena, Hall C and D. For more information, visit 

www.guestservices@nrgpark.com. 

February 17 th - 2018 Lunar New Year Festival. This year’s Lunar New 

Year Festival is from 10 AM-4 PM at the Chinese Community Center, 

9800 Town Park Dr., Houston 77036. Free Admission & Parking. 

For more information, visit www.ccchouston.org. 

February 22 nd - 24 th - Houston Livestock Rodeo Cookoff. More than 250 

teams, led by barbecue aficionados, compete in the World’s Championship 

Bar-B-Que Contest. While most team tents are invitation-only, visitors can 

enjoy several public venues, including The Garden, Rockin’ Bar-B-Que 

Saloon and the Chuck Wagon. Plus, the carnival is open, for wild rides and 

fun games. The Miller Lite Stage at The Garden features some of the best 

up-and-coming and established artists in Texas country. The Rockin’ Bar- 

B-Que Saloon also features live and DJ music and has an outside patio for 

visitors to enjoy. Inside the saloon is the Chuck Wagon, where visitors can 

pick up their complimentary sliced beef sandwich with chips and beans. 

February 24 th - Rodeo Run. Run for a cause! Proceeds from the event 

benefit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Educational 

Fund. The 2017 Rodeo Run had more than 9,500 participants in the 

wheelchair race, 10K race and 5K fun run/walk. Since 1988, nearly $5 

million has been contributed to the Rodeo. For more information, 

visit www.rodeohouston.com. 

February 24 th - Downtown Rodeo Parade at 10 AM. Every February 

since 1938, the nation’s fourth largest city is transformed from 

a bustling metropolis to a down-home celebration of Western 

heritage. Decorative floats intermingle with thousands of men and 

women on horseback to fill the streets with hoof beats and marching 

bands. Enthusiastic Houstonians join out-of-town spectators to line 

the streets and sidewalks to be involved in one of Houston’s most 

popular celebrations! For parade route, street closures and parking 

information, visit www.rodeohouston.com. 

February 24 th - Love tribute bands? Love food trucks? Join us for 

the 2 nd Annual Texas Classic Rockin’ Food Truck Rally presented by 

Shiner Beers. Our goal is to not only be the biggest food truck rally but 

one of the most amazing rockin’ roll shows the Gulf Coast has ever 

experienced! Come out early to get your grub on with ALL YOU CAN EAT 

samples from all of your favorite food trucks from Noon to 3 PM, while 

supplies last. Vote for your favorite gourmet food truck as they compete 

for the Grand Champion of the Texas Classic Rockin Food Truck Rally 

title and all the bragging rights that come with it. Come prepared to 

rock! There will be an amazing lineup of bands. The event will be at the 

Galveston County Fairgrounds. General Admission is $20, kids under 

12 are free. Bring lawn chairs and blankets for the show and no coolers 

are allowed. For more information, visit www.texasfoodtruckrally.com. 

February 25 th - It’s official! The Houston Kosher Chili Cook-off is now 

the largest kosher food event in Houston. The 8 th Houston Kosher Chili 

Cook-off will be held at the ERJCC. There will be MORE cooking teams, 

MORE food, MORE money raised for local charities and MORE fun! At 

12 PM, the public is invited to sample chili, mingle, enjoy children’s 

activities, listen to music and simply have a great time in an outdoor, 

festival atmosphere. The event will conclude with the selection of the 

winning chili by celebrity judges. So, don’t miss this “hot” event! For 

more information, visit www.houstonkosherchilicookoff.com. 


Our Realtor team has been the top 

team in Cinco Ranch for over 20 years 

and the top team in Firethorne and 

Cross Creek Ranch since communities’ 

inceptions. The team has sold over 

$1 billion in the last 8 years! 

When you need a Realtor team, go with 

someone who has the track record! 

GENERAL 

HOUSTON BUSINESS 

JOURNAL 

WALL STREET JOURNAL 

(entire country, not brokerage specific) 

GREATER HOUSTON 

BUILDER ASSOCIATION 

RE/MAX CORPORATE 

Closed over 540 transactions 2016 and $190,000,000 in production 2016 

#1 Team in Cinco Ranch for over 20 years 

#1 Team in Cross Creek Ranch & Firethorne since 2009 

Top 25 REALTORS: 1996 - 2016 

Ranked #5: Gross Dollar Volume of Closed Sales - 2016 

Top 50 our of 2 million active Realtors in the US 

Ranked #69: Number of Closed Transaction Sides for 2014 

Ranked #85: Closed Volume for 2014 

Prism Award Winner 2005 

Realtor of the Year 

Ranked #4 for RE/MAX Teams in Texas for 2016 (over 5,500 agents) 

Ranked #17 for RE/MAX Teams in the US for 2016 (over 51,000 agents) 

Ranked #30 for RE/MAX Teams World Wide for 2016 (over 89,000 agents) 

Circle of Legends 

Inducted into the Exclusive Hall of Fame 

Distinguished Luminary Award 

RE/MAX Grand 

281.347.2200 (office) · 281.347.2272 (fax) 

www.TheFranklinTeamInc.com 

Jimmy.Franklin@thefranklinteaminc.com 


31

Office: 281/646-1136 • Mobile: 281/797-1600 • e-mail: bob@bobmiles.com 

Selling Your Home Is a VISUAL Thing 

Over 90% of all home buyers use the internet to search for a home 

Let me put you MILES ahead of the competition 

• Visual Tours linked to popular web-sites 

• Maximum quality photos linked to web-sites 

Show off your home with on-line photo marketing! 

www.BobMiles.com 

©2012 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. 

Better Homes and Gardens, the Better Homes and Garden Real Estate logo are registered service marks owned by Meredith Corporation and licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC.

Grand Lakes February 2018

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