Katy Communicator February 2018

KATY COMMUNICATOR 

Serving Kelliwood, Courts, Enclave, Fairways, Garden Greens, Lakes, Links, 

Nottingham, Place, PointeTerrace, Trails and Greens at Willow Fork 

FEBRUARY 2018 

Important Numbers... 3 

Family Focus... 3 

Teenage Job Seekers... 5 

Engagement Stories... 6 

School News... 8 

Community Events... 12 

Houston Area Events... 17 

Library & Parks... 18 

Flu Prevention Tips... 24 

Volunteers Needed... 26 

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 Katy us Communicator on FACEBOOK | February for more 2018 news & events! Find Businesses easier on our BIZFINDER at www.krenekprinting.com! 1

Whether you need advertising, printed materials, branded merchandise, 

a website or other marketing for your business... 

We Have The Solution For Your Business! 

Krenek Printing 

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTERS 

LLC 

SERVICES: 

Advertising • Layout Design 

Printing Services 

Flyers • Brochures • Pamphlets 

Newsletters • Postcards • Envelopes 

Mailing Services 

Direct (EDDM) • Bulk • First Class 

Branded Merchandise • Marketing Services 

YOUR AD COULD 

BE HERE! 

281-463-8649 • 7102 Glen Chase Ct, Houston, Texas 77095 • www.KrenekPrinting.com 

Protect 

your world 

Auto • Home • Life • Retirement 

Call me today to discuss your options. 

Some people think Allstate only protects your 

car. Truth is, Allstate can also protect your 

home or apartment, your boat, motorcycle - 

even your retirement and your life. And the 

more of your world you put in Good Hands®, 

the more you can save. 

Warren Sloan 

713-464-4442 

1400 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. N. 

Houston 

warrensloan@allstate.com 

Insurance subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co., 

Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Insurance Co., Allstate Texas Lloyd’s, Allstate Indemnity 

Co., Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co. Life insurance offered through Allstate Life Ins. Co. & 

Allstate Assurance Co. Northbrook, IL; Lincoln Benefit Life Co., Lincoln, NE; and American Heritage Life 

Insurance Co., Jacksonville, FL. Securities offered by Personal Financial Representatives through Allstate 

Financial Services, LLC (LSA Securities in LA and PA). Registered Broker-Dealer. Member FINRA, SIPC. 

Main Office: 2920 South 84th Street, Lincoln, NE 68506. (877) 525-5727. © 2010 Allstate Insurance Co. 

200227 

2 

February 2018 | Katy Communicator

Family 

Focus 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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 

KATY COMMUNICATOR IMPORTANT NUMBERS 

Crest Management Company (for Section 10 only) 

ALL EMERGENCIES 911 

Constable 281-463-6666 

Harris County Sheriff 713-221-6000 

KISD Police Department 281-237-4000 

Ft. Bend County Sheriff 281-342-6116 

Ft. Bend Constable Precinct 3 281-238-1430 

(after 5PM call Ft. Bend Co. Sheriff’s office) 

COMMUNITY 

Katy Family YMCA 281-579-3303 

VFW 281-391-4872 

Fort Bend Co. Court House 281-342-3411 

William B. Travis Building 281-342-3411 

Jane Long Annex 281-342-3411 

Harris County Court House 713-859-0685 

Katy Chamber of Commerce 281-391-5289 

SCHOOLS 

www.katyisd.org 

KISD Administration 281-396-6000 

KISD Transportation. 281-396-7560 

Creech Elementary 281-237-8850 

Exley Elementary 281-237-8400 

Hayes Elementary 281-237-3200 

Pattison Elementary 281-237-5450 

Beck Junior High 281-237-3300 

McMeans Junior High 281-237-8000 

Cinco Ranch High School 281-237-7000 

Taylor High School 281-237-3100 

Katy Creative Arts 281-391-5003 

LIBRARIES HARRIS CO. 

Maude Marks 281-492-8592 

Katy 281-391-3509 

Libraries Ft. Bend Co. 

Cinco Ranch Branch 281-395-1311 

George Memorial Branch 281-342-4455 

Nottingham Country Fund, Inc. 281-579-0761 

Michael Barrera michael@crestmanagement.com 

UTILITIES/POST OFFICE 

Centerpoint Energy Gas 713-659-2111 

Reliant Energy 713-207-7777 

Fort Bend Telephone 281-391-2222 

AT & T Repair 1-800-246-8464 

AT & T New Service 1-800-288-2020 

Waste Corp. of Texas (WCA) 281-368-8397 

(Trash Pick up Mon. & Thurs.) 

Comcast Communications 713-341-1000 

Katy - Park Row Post Office 1-800-275-8777 

Baker Road Post Office 1-800-275-8777 

Katy - Park Row Post Office 1-800-275-8777 

Dept. of Public Safety 713-465-8462 

Poison Control 1/800/764-7661 

Harris County Animal Control 281-652-1970 

MEDICAL 

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital 281-644-7000 

Kingsland Diagnostic Center 713-932-3000 

Memorial Hospital 713-932-3000 

Columbia Rosewood Medical 713-780-7900 

Christus St. Catherine 281-599-5700 

NEWSLETTER INFORMATION 

Krenek Printing Company • 7102 Glen Chase Ct. 

281-463-8649 Fax# 281-463-2425 

www.krenekprinting.com 

Articles Email: News@KrenekPrinting.com 

Ads Email: ads@krenekprinting.com 

Mamie George Branch 

Katy Communicator | February 2018 

281-491-8086 

Classified Ad Email: classified@krenekprinting.com 

3

« Boys & Girls Gymnastics: Beginner-Advanced 

«Preschool: 3-5 years « Mom & Me: Walking-3 years 

«Tumble Bees: 3-5 years « Sports Fanatics: 3-5 years 

« Cheer Technique: Beginner - Advanced 

« Tumbling: Beginner - Advanced 

Call for FREE Trial! 281-347-2000 

23333 Taswell Dr., Katy, TX 77494 

www.westwoodgym.com 

Open 

Gym 

Flip Flop 

Clinics 

Birthday 

Parties 

Parents 

Day Out 

Princess 

Play Dates 

Boys Play 

Dates 

Call for FREE Trial! 

281-347-2000 

23333 Taswell Dr. 

Katy, TX 77494 

www.westwooddance.com 

Nottingham Country Garden Club 

On Thursday, February 1, 2018 Nottingham Country Garden 

Club (NCGC) will feature Dinah Weems. Dinah will be speaking on 

the topic Bayou Bend/Miss Ima Hogg - Great Texan Collector. This 

presentation will provide a history of Miss Hogg, Bayou Bend and 

some highlights in the collection. 

Monthly meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month 

from September through May. We welcome all people interested 

in gardening and gardening related topics. We serve the West 

Houston and Katy areas. You do not have to live in the Nottingham 

Country neighborhood to belong to our group! NCGC is a non-profit 

organization affiliated with the Houston Federation of Garden 

Clubs, the Texas State Garden Clubs and the National Garden 

Clubs. The purpose of the club is to promote the beautification of 

our community, support local and national educational and civic 

organizations and educate the community about our environment. 

Donations from the NCGC are funded by our annual Spring Sale and 

projects that vary each year. 

Meet and greet time begins at 9:30 AM and the program will begin 

at 10 AM, followed by the NCGC business meeting. Please join us at 

the Municipal Utility Building #81 at 805 Hidden Canyon Drive, Katy, 

77450. For more information, see our website: www.ncgctx.org. 

Local Veteran Groups Meet 

If you are an honorably discharged War Time Veteran or currently 

serving on active duty and want to associate yourself with fellow 

Veterans, please consider joining one of the following groups. (Each 

organization has its own requirements for membership.) 

AMERICAN LEGION: The Jonathan D. Rozier Post 164 of Katy Texas 

meets the fourth Wednesday of each month, at 7 PM at the Katy 

Elks Lodge #2628, at 1050 Katy-Ft. Bend Road, Katy TX. Meetings 

start promptly at 7:30 PM. The American Legion is the largest war 

time Veteran’s organization in the nation and invites all eligible 

Veterans to join. Proud sponsor of the American Legion Boy’s 

State Program. Greg Clock, Post Commander. Visit us at www. 

LegionPost164KatyTX.org for more information. 

VFW: The Floyd E. Breedlove Post 9182 of Katy Texas meets the 

first Monday of each month at the Katy Senior Citizens Center on 

5 th Street. Meetings begin with a covered dish dinner at 6:30 PM, 

followed by the business meetings of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary 

at 7:30 PM. Frank Torres, Commander. Ladies Auxiliary President, 

Betty Edmundson. 

• Dancing Tots • Combo Ballet/Tap 

• Combo Ballet/Tap/Jazz • Acro • Ballet 

• Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Lyrical/Contemporary 

• Award Winning Company 

MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART: Tri-County Chapter 723 

of the MOPH meets the third Thursday of each month at the Katy 

Fire Station on Ave. D in Old Town Katy. Felix Garcia III, Commander, 

386-793-8065 or sgtg31@yahoo.com. 

Additional information is available through the Veterans Memorial 

Museum at: 281-391-VETS (8387). 

4 


Teenage Job Seekers 

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. 

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. 

Local Utility Rebates Now Available 

CODE KEY: 

B - BABYSITTING, CPR - CPR CERT., FAC - FIRST AID CERT., RCC - 

RED CROSS CERT., SS - SAFE SITTER, SL - SWIM LESSONS, PP - PET/ 

PLANT SITTER, P - PET CARE ONLY, H - HOUSE CARE, L - LAWN CARE, 

C- CAR CARE/DETAILING, T - TUTORING 

TEENAGE JOB SEEKERS 

NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE 

Call Anytime! 

TACLB019260E 

HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING 

UP TO $ 1100 REBATE 

$ 

5O OFF 

on a New A/C & Heating System 

0% Interest Payment Plans 

Qualifying Models only. Call for Details. 

Must present at time of service. Expires 2/28/18. 

Any Repair 

Cannot be combined with any other offer. 

Must present at time of service. Expires 2/28/18. 

281-492-3450 myACandHEAT.com 

FREE ESTIMATES on New Equipment 

Same-Day Service 

FRONT 

COVER PHOTOS 

WANTED! 

We are looking for great photos to use on the front cover 

of your newsletter! Pictures must be high quality (min 

300 dpi). No cell phone photos allowed. Email photos for 

consideration to lorie@krenekprinting.com with the name 

of your subdivision, and any credits that should be published 

with your photo (such as a professional photographer.) 

Names of children and/or adults shown on the photo will be 

included by request only. Although not a requirement, we 

like to use themes each month based on holidays, summer, 

winter, etc. By submitting your photo, you are giving 

permission to use your photo on the cover or inside your 

newsletter, as well as other Krenek Printing publications. 

Deadline for submission is the 20th of each month. 

The next due date will be February 20th for the 

April 2017 publications. 

Katy Communicator | February 2018 5

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. 

6 

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. 


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 


Katy Independent School District 

www.katyisd.org 

News 

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. 

8 


Taylor High School's 

Fashion Extravaganza 

This year, Taylor High School’s Fashion Extravaganza promises to be 

bigger and better than ever before! 

The fashion show, which highlights the latest in prom fashions and prom 

services, will take place February 1 st in the high school’s Main Commons. 

The show starts at 7 PM and the school is located at 20700 Kingsland 

Blvd. in Katy. 

Some of the businesses who are participating include Kendra Scott, 

David’s Bridal, Minuti Coffee and Runway Seven. More than 50 highschool 

seniors will model the latest in prom fashions, in addition to 

college-wear. 

Tickets are available at the school for only $5 for students and $8 

for others. Tickets cost $10 at the door. Don’t miss out...here’s a 

chance to view the latest prom fashions and help raise money for 

the senior class! 

Birthdays, Anniversaries, any special occasion, or just for fun! 

Get Healthy 

This Year with 

Medi-Weightloss® 

Call today to schedule a 

FREE CLINICAL ASSESSMENT: 

Learn your BMI, body fat 

percentage, waist 

circumference, and more. 

281-223-1243 

22167 Westheimer Pkwy. Ste. 105 


MediWeightloss.com 

* On average, patients compliant with the Medi-Weightloss ® Program lose 

6.4 pounds the first week and 14 pounds the first month. Rapid weight loss 

may be associated with certain medical conditions and should only be 

considered by those who are medically appropriate. 

PATRICE, 

ACTUAL PATIENT, 

LOST 30LBS* 

Place your order for a perfectly poised, passionately pink, 

plucky, perky flock of flamingos! 

Two day rental fee is only $1 per bird 

(with a 20 bird minimum) 

Banners available for an additional $5 fee 

(comes with free personalized card) 

2’ x 4’ “Happy Birthday” banner or 

2’ x 5’ “Will you go to Homecoming with me?” banner 

Please contact Mandy Miller at ammiller90@sbcglobal.net 

Thank you for supporting Project Grad 2018! 

LOU'S PAINTING, Ltd. 

• Interior - Exterior 

• Power Washing 

• Sheetrock & Texture 

• HardiPlank ® Replacement 

• Minor Repairs 

Free Estimates 

Your home is an expensive investment! 

Painting beautifies & preserves that 

investment! 

281-492-2643 

Mike McKay 

"Doing business from the same location since 1978" 

THE TEXAS DOOR EXPERT 

Repair - Replace 

ANY DOOR 

48 Years Experience 

832-302-0069 

www.txdoorexpert.com 


ELECTRICIAN 

$20 Off Any 

Service Call! 

1 

Not to be combined with any other discount or offer. 

WIRED 

Electrical Services 

Residential & Commercial 

Award Winner 

Master #100394 • TECL #22809 

24/7 Service 

5 Year 

Warranty* 

100% Customer 

Satisfaction 

Guaranteed! 

P Mount Flat Screens 

P Generators 

P Lighting 

P Add Circuits 

P Panel Replacement 

P Cable/Phone 

713-467-1125 

281-897-0001 

www.wiredes.com 

Family Owned 

& Operated 

ADVANCED 

HOME EXTERIORS 

WE DON’T TRY TO DO IT ALL... 

WE ONLY DO WHAT WE DO BEST! 

SIDING, WINDOWS & ROOFING 

HardiePlank Siding & Exterior Painting 

 

 

$500 OFF * 

HardiePlank and Window Replacement 

*Minimum purchase required 

Hardie ColorPlus from 

Advanced Home Exteriors 

is recommended by 

Tom Tynan, HomeShow Radio 

Financing Available 

Call Today for Your Free Estimate! 

832-363-3772 

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 schoolage 

students. The team is dedicated to developing engineering, problemsolving 

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. 

10 


SCOUTING... 

NEWS 

Brownie GS Troop Openings For 2Nd Grade 

Girls-Katy Wide 

Troop 128006, a Katy wide 2 nd Grade Brownie Girl Scout Troop, has 

opening for 2 nd grade girls. We welcome new to GS, returning & existing 

2 nd grade Girl Scouts. Meetings: Every other Monday, 6:30-8 PM, 20000 

Franz Road area. Contact Lee at gstroop128006@gmail.com for more 

information. 

Scout It Out And Come 

Join Cub Scouts With Pack 353! 

Field trips. Camping. Racing. 

Fitness. Friendship. 

Pack 353 has been keeping the Scout spirit alive since 1982. With over 

60 scouts and 20 dynamic leaders, we are gearing up for a fun-filled year 

with a wide variety of activities that help boys develop leadership skills, 

build character, strengthen communication skills and demonstrate good 

citizenship. 

Boys entering first through fifth grades are welcome to join us anytime 

throughout the year. If you would like more information on joining Cub 

Scouts and participating in our summertime activities, please contact 

our Cubmaster Randy Barras at: 353katy@gmail.com. Keeping it fun. 

Doing our best. 

Homeschool Pack 164 

Cub Scouts is a fun way to teach boys about character, respect, 

responsibility and many other traits. Pack 164 is a Christian, home 

school Cub Scout Pack that services the Greater West Houston/Katy area. 

Pack 164 promotes service to God, to country and to others. If you are 

interested and your son is entering 1 st through 5 th grade, please contact 

Jack M. Jones at 281-558-5722. 

VICTORY PAINTING 

& WOOD ROT REPLACEMENT 

PROMPT - RELIABLE - AFFORDABLE - SINCE 1993 

Interior & Exterior Painting • Storm Damage Repair 

Siding Replacement • Custom Woodwork 

Extensive References • Free Estimates 

Will Meet or Beat Competitor’s Prices • Satisfaction Guaranteed 

www.VictoryPaintingTx.com • Victor@VictoryPaintingTx.com 

281-853-4575 

A/C & Heating 

“We work as unto 

the Lord” 

RESIDENTIAL & 

COMMERCIAL 

4 

CHECK-UP 

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE 

281-898-0965 

TACLB52242E 

Geyer roofinG 

Specializing in 

Re-Roofing 

Ron Geyer 

713-462-3898 

REMODELING 

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Windows / Doors • Floors • Hardi Siding 

• Rooms Additions • Complete Renovations • Patio Covers 

Rob Geyer 

281-477-3456 


COMMUNITY EVENTS 

Walks/Runs 

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 

1st Annual Reign Over Cancer Walk 

Postponed Until 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 the minute 

12 

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. 

Craft Shows/Festivals 

2Nd 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. 

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 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. 

Fundraisers 

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-from-home 

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. 

• FREE Inspections 

• FREE Estimates 

• Hail & Wind Specialist 

• Insurance Specialist 

• A rating on Angie’s List 

Free Ridge Ventilation 

with 

Full Roof Installation 

(Shingle color shown in 

Max Def Weathered Wood) 

We use high quality 

CertainTeed Max Def shingles 

to get the 3D look and enhance 

your home’s curb appeal. 

Call or email for your FREE Roof Inspection today! 

www.rlkdesignsinc.com 

rlkizer@yahoo.com 

832-434-4159 


Air Conditioning Contractors of America 

Theater/Arts 

Katy Visual & Performing Arts Center 

www.kvpac.org • 2501 S Mason Rd., Suite 290, Katy, TX 77450 

14 

Be Safe! Service Heater Protect Home 

281-394-0028 

Free estimate or 2 nd opinion 

$25 off 

any 

repair 

License TACLB 24777E and Insured 

Expires 2/28/18 

FREE 

Wi-fi thermostat 

w/ equipment purchase 

• Annual 

Maintenance 

Programs 

• All repairs 

guaranteed 

• Serving area 

since 1994 

0% Interest 

financing available 

Expires 2/28/18 WAC 

Expires 2/28/18 

IdealAirServices.com 

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. 

Season Tickets, including all new FLEX Packages, are on-sale now to lockin 

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. 

Community Events - Misc 

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. 

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. 


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 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. Preregistration 

is required and there is a maximum number of participants 

for each prowl. 

Water Heaters • Drain Problems 

Faucet Installation & Repair 

Gas Test • Water Leaks & Much More 

35+ Years Experience 

832-890-8449 

TonysPlumbing57@hotmail.com 

Always there for you! 

$30 off 

any Job 

Over $95 

Low Price Guarantee 

Licensed & Insured 

FREE ESTIMATES 

MPL#40815 


T 

E 

X 

A 

16 

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 


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 invitationonly, 

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. 


Libraries and Parks 

18 

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. 

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-taxpreparation 

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, Multipurpose 

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 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. 

LICENSED 

TACLB021058E 

INSURED 

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 

HEAT 

FREE 1st lb. Freon (R410 only) 

1/2 Priced Condenser Coil Cleaning 

1 Yr. Warranty On Parts Changed 

We Value Your Business 

All Brands Serviced 

Local Neighborhood Company 

Fast Personalized Service 

We Will Heat & Cool Your Castle! 

COOL 


Become a Dental Assistant 

in just 10 weeks! 

10 Week Course 

Tuition $3250 • Payment Plans 

Training Since 1995 

Spring Session begins 

April 7, 2018 

Open House: 

February 16th • 4-7 pm 

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.) 

Houston Dental Assistant School 

Located in Katy and Spring/The Woodlands 

www.hdas.biz 

For info packet call 281-363-0600 or email us at admin@hdas.biz 

Approved by the TWC Career Schools and Colleges 

281-712-4000 

2004 South Mason Rd., Suite D2 


TWO MEN AND A TRUCK ® 

“Movers Who Care ® 

” 

We Sell Boxes! 

www.twomenandatruckwesthouston.com 

Each franchise is independently owned and operated 

TX DMV 007014576C 

U.S.DOT No 2857289 

MC 956638 

On-Site Leaded Glass Door Repairs Free Estimates 

Glass Happy 

Call Larry Jones 

281-579-7761 

Custom Stained Glass 

Free Estimates 

Sidelights & Transoms 

to match your front door 

Half Round/Arched Windows 

Add 

Privacy and Beauty 

to your home 

Visit our Gallery 

www.glasshappy.com 

Stained Glass Restoration & Repair 

• 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. 

Maud Marks Library 

1815 Westgreen Blvd., Katy, TX 77450, 281-492-8592 

LIBRARY HOURS - Mon. 1 PM - 9 PM, Tues. 10 AM - 9 PM, Wed. 10 AM - 6 

PM, Thurs. 10 AM - 6 PM, Fri. 1 PM - 6 PM, Sat. 10 AM - 5 PM, Sun. closed. 

To register online for any of the programs at the library’s website 

(www.hcpl.net), click on “Events Calendar” and select “Maud Marks.” 

Participants may also register by calling or by visiting the library. 

“Like” us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/maudmarkslibrary. 

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.hcpl.net/content/it-has-arrived. 

SPECIAL EVENTS 

• BOOK SALE - The Friends of the Maud Marks Library will hold their next 

book sale on Saturday, February 24 th at 10 AM until 4 PM. There is a 

large selection of hardback fiction and nonfiction, as well as children’s 

books and paperbacks. All proceeds will benefit the library. 

• NASA DAY @ YOUR LIBRARY - Have you ever wondered what it was like 

to spend time in space? The library would like to help you realize your 

dream! On Saturday, February 3 rd at 1 PM, a representative of NASA’s 

Johnson Space Center will be at the library to tell us all about living and 

20 


working in outer space. Also, join us for other space experiments such 

as antigravity drops, microgravity experiments, space food, rockets 

and more! Learn what it is like to work in small work areas such as the 

International Space Station. This is a ticketed event. Tickets will be given 

out the day of the event beginning at noon. 

• THE HARLEM RENAISSANCE & THE AFRICAN IN AMERICA - Come 

celebrate Black History Month in style! On Monday, February 19 th at 1:30 

PM, come to the library to celebrate the contributions of African Americans 

to our nation’s culture. We’ll be listening to music that celebrates the 

historic contribution and achievements of great Americans. Afterwards, 

join us for some African crafts as we learn all about the African American 

culture. We will also learn the history of food in the African American 

culture and feast on some unique foods. 

• TEENMAKERS - Teens & tweens in 6 th grade and up are invited to come 

MAKE something at the library. This will be a monthly program, which 

will include robotics, science experiments, art & crafts and more! This 

month, on Thursday, February 1 st at 3:30, we will be making rockets. 

This is a ticketed program. Tickets will be available 30 minutes prior to 

the program. Come have fun and MAKE something! 

• VOLUNTEER AT THE LIBRARY - Volunteer opportunities abound at 

the library. Volunteers are needed to help shelve, count patrons and 

more. We will be holding our next volunteer orientation on Thursday, 

February 1 st at 5 PM. Students should be in high school and must be 

able to commit to two hours a week. If you would like to help in any way, 

please contact Elizabeth Herndon at 281-492-8592. 

• TEEN BOOK CLUB - We have started a teen book club! Teens are invited 

to join us on Thursday, February 15 th at 4:30 PM as we discuss the book 

Flame in the Mist by Renee Ahdieh. If you are interested in joining us, 

extra copies of the book are available at the checkout desk. 

• FREE TAX ASSISTANCE - Beginning February 3 rd and every Monday 

and Friday through April 18 th , AARP will be offering free tax assistance 

to elderly and low-income individuals. AARP assistance runs from 10 AM 

to 2 PM. 

• YOGA DEMONSTRATION - You asked for it, you got it! The library hosts 

classes twice a month. Yoga can be a very relaxing and centering exercise 

program. Join us on Saturdays, February 3 rd at 10 AM and February 17 th 

at 3 PM, as we learn about the benefits and basic how-to of yoga. Join us 

as we exercise our minds and bodies. Registration required. 

• GREEN THUMB GARDENING - Master Gardeners of Harris County will 

once again be bringing their Green Thumb series once a month where 

they will discuss various topics unique to gardening in the Houston 

area. This month, on February 10 th at 10:30 AM, learn all about spring 

vegetable gardening. Seating is extremely limited for this class. 

• DIY WORKSHOP: CROSS-STITCH - It’s Valentine’s Day and at the 

library we will be learning the art of cross-stitch as we make beautiful 

needlework to decorate our homes. Join us on Tuesday, February 13 th 

at 2 PM as we make cut scenes in hearts for our sweethearts. 

• KATY MAKERSPACE - Did you know that the Katy area has its very own 

MakerSpace? We’ll be learning all about this special place for creators 

and inventors at the library on Tuesday, February 13 th at 7 PM. Harry 

Krueger will be here to give us an introduction to Katy MakerSpace and 

all you can do there. Makers of all ages and disciplines are encouraged to 

join us as we learn everything our new MakerSpace has to offer. 

• SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS - Senior citizens and their family members 

are invited to join us for a new series at the Maud Marks Library. Every 

3 rd Friday of the month, experts will be here to discuss various topics 

pertinent to senior living. On February 16 th at 3 PM, we will be discussing 

mobility and wellness as we age. Learn all about how to stay healthy and 

fit no matter how old you might be. Come discover what kind of life is 

best for you or your loved one. 

• WRITERS’ WORKSHOP WITH THE HOUSTON WRITERS GUILD - Come 

on Saturday, February 17 th at 1 PM to a hands-on multi-part workshop 

to learn tips of the trade from expert writers from The Houston Writers 

Guild. They will provide instruction to all writers at every level. Beginners 

and experienced writers are welcome. This series of workshops are 

hands-on, active sessions where you can write and receive feedback. 

So bring laptops and/or other writing utensils to get the most of each 

session. 

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 

NO No MONEY moNey UP up FRONT froNt 

25+ Years Experience • References Available 

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL 

CommerCial/residential 

- FREE Free ESTIMATES- estimates- 

BashansPainting@earthlink.net 

** FULLY INSURED ** 

FULLY INSURED 

281-347-6702 office 

281-731-3383 cell 

We accept all major credit cards 

KATY KATY 

PET 

Pet Pet Sitting in in Your Home 

Pet Sitting in Your Home 

Kim & Dave 281-395-0182 

www.katypetnannies.com 

pets@katypetnannies.com 

Your Pets Deserve the Luxury of a Nanny 


• PEOPLE’S LAW SCHOOL - Do you have legal questions but don’t even 

know where to start? On Saturday, February 10 th at 10 AM, the library 

is pleased to host The People’s Law School presented by the Katy 

Bar Association. Learn all the ins and outs of your legal issue. Ask the 

questions you need answers to. 

• TIMELESS TRAVELERS: MUSEUM DAY - Seniors 55+ are invited to 

join the library’s Timeless Travelers program for a FREE visit to the 

Museum District, courtesy of the Friends of Maud Marks Library and 

Precinct Three Transportation. We will start our day at the Houston 

Museum of African American Culture. There we will be immersed in 

the culture of Africans and African Americans in Houston and the 

state of Texas. Then after lunch, we will move on to the Houston 

Museum of Natural Science. Special exhibits include, Knights, 

Fabrege, Tourmaline Treasures and more! Registration begins 

February 2 nd . Registration is by telephone or in person ONLY. There 

will be no online registration. 

• COLOR ME RELAXED - What is the newest way for adults to relax and 

have a good time? Coloring! The library now has an adult coloring hour 

on the 4 th Tuesday of every month. Join us as we color, chat, have a 

snack and listen to relaxing music. We will provide plenty of pages for 

coloring and colored pencils, although, you are more than welcome to 

bring your own. 

• BOOK DISCUSSION CLUBS - The Library hosts book clubs that meet 

monthly. The Afternoon Book Club meets on the second Thursday of the 

month at 1 PM. 

• JUST DESSERTS MYSTERY BOOK CLUB - Meetings held the third 

Wednesday of the month at 2 PM. You are encouraged to bring your 

favorite dessert to eat while we discuss whether our villains get their just 

desserts. 

• COMPUTER CLASSES - The library offers a variety of computer classes 

each month. You must know how to use a mouse and a keyboard. 

Seating for this is extremely limited. Registration is required. To see 

this month’s classes go to the library’s website www.hcpl.net, click on 

“Events Calendar” and select “Maud Marks.” 

CHILDREN 

• SUNSET STORYTIME - Bring the entire family out to our new 

bedtime storytime. This new storytime will meet on Tuesday, 

February 6 th and 20 th at 6:30 PM. We will have stories, songs and 

rhymes for the whole family. Children are welcome to wear their 

pajamas. 

• INFANT STORYTIME - This program will meet each Tuesday morning 

at 10:15 AM and 11:15 AM. This is an interactive program for children, 

ages 0 to 12 months and their caregivers. Each session will last about 20 

minutes, featuring nursery rhymes, songs and finger plays. 

• STORYTIME - Storytime for preschool-aged children is held each 

Wednesday at 10:15 AM. Stories, fingerplays and songs are featured. This 

is ideal for children ages 3 to 5, but all children and their caregivers are 

welcome. 

• PRESCHOOL EXPLORERS - Is your preschooler ready to explore the 

world? Children ages 2 ½ to 5 are invited to come on Wednesdays at 

11:15 AM as we learn about the world. There will be plenty of stations for 

science and sensory exploration. 

• TOTALLY TODDLER STORYTIME - Toddlers, ages 18 to 36 months, 

are invited to participate in our Totally Toddler Storytime, which will 

be held on Thursdays, at 10:15 AM and 11:15 AM. Tickets are required 

for Toddler Storytime. Tickets are given to the first 30 toddlers the day 

of the event. 

• WEDNESDAY WONDERS - Come to the library and let imaginations 

soar as you explore the world around you with crafts and activities. On 

Wednesdays at 4:45 PM, the library will host Wednesday Wonders for 

ages 6-11. These programs normally last about one hour. All necessary 

materials are provided. This is a ticketed program. Tickets are available 

½ hour prior to the program. 

“Like” us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/maudmarkslibrary. 

For more information call 281-550-0885 or log on to www.hcpl.net. 

22 

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. 

Katy Branch Library 

5414 Franz Road, Katy, TX 77493, 281-391-3509 

Hours of Operation: Monday & Tuesday 10 AM - 7 PM, Wednesday 1 PM - 

8 PM, Thursday 10 AM - 6 PM, Friday 1 PM - 6 PM, Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM, 

Sunday CLOSED. Join online at www.hcpl.net or come by in person and 

we’ll help you sign up! 

MONTHLY PROGRAMS 

• HISPANIC BOOK GROUP/CLUB HISPANO DE LIBROS - First Wednesday 

of each month, 6 PM. Every month, a group of Spanish speaking adults 

get together to discuss a chosen book. Les invitamos a que todos los 

meses se reuna con nosotros para conversar sobre un libro. Lláme para 

más información. 

• SUPERACION PERSONAL - Second Wednesday of every month, 6 PM. 

The Katy Branch Library hosts motivational discussions in Spanish. 

• SPANISH COMPUTER CLASS/CLASE DE LA COMPUTADORA - Every 

Friday, 4:30 PM. Basic computer classes taught in Spanish. 

• ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES - The Katy Library offers an array of 

computer classes in English - please call for more information. 

• MANGO ESL CLASS - Every Friday, 3:30 PM. Learn English with a group 

going through Mango Languages, an online computer program. 


• GARDENING CLUB - Every month on the 2 nd Thursday, 11 AM. Join 

other gardeners in the area to learn new ways to grow. Bring your leftover 

seeds and exchange them for new seeds to try. 

WEEKLY PROGRAMS 

• GENEALOGY SQUAD - Every Monday, 2 PM. Bring your lunch and 

join us for an informal genealogy get-together. We’ll have computers, 

Ancestry.com and other genealogists to help each other with our 

searches. 

• KNOTTY & NICE CLUB - Every Wednesday, 1 PM. The Knotty & Nice 

Club is the place for you if you want to learn new needlework techniques, 

teach someone else or just hang out with other crafters. Come & join the 

club! 

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 

CHILDREN 

Mondays, 10:15 AM - Baby Bounce 

Tuesdays, 10:15 AM and 11 AM - Toddler Time 

Thursdays, 10:15 AM and 11 AM - Preschool Storytime 

Peckham Park Activities 

These classes are free with priority to Harris Co. residents. 

5597 Gardenia, 281-391-4482 - web www.pct3.hctx.net 

PRIORITY IS GIVEN TO HARRIS COUNTY RESIDENTS & THOSE WHO LIVE 

WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF KATY 

281-620-8077 

nulookpainter@yahoo.com 

In Business Since 1994 

nulookhomeimprovements.com 

MARY JO PECKHAM PARK FISHING LAKE: The lake is a stocked. Rules are 

posted out by the lake. Park hours are 6 AM-10 PM. If you have questions, 

please call the Parks Office at 281-531-1592. 

ONGOING CLASSES LAND - 

PILATES - Mondays and Fridays - 10:30 AM-11:30 AM. 

YOGA - Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM & Mondays & 

Wednesdays, 5:30 PM-6:30 PM. 

ZUMBA - Tuesdays - 11 AM-12 PM (HC & KCL residents call Tuesday 

starting at 7 AM for reservations, other counties call Tuesday starting 

at 10 AM) & Thursdays 5 PM - 6 PM (HC & KCL residents, call Thursday 

starting at 7 AM for reservations, other counties call Thursday starting 

at 10 AM) and Saturdays - 8:15-9:15 AM (HC & KCL residents, call Friday 

starting at 7 AM for reservations, other counties call Friday starting at 

10 AM). 

SENIOR OUTDOOR FIT & FUN - Tuesdays - 11-11:30 AM. 

FITNESS MACHINES – This is a time when you can work out on your 

own on the fitness equiPMent. You must be 16 year and up & bring a full 

size towel and wear atheletic shoes. Various times available daily. The 

machines are closed during class times. 

ONGOING CLASSES POOL - 

DEEP WATER AEROBICS - This hour class is a high cardio 

vascular workout. A flotation device is advised. Monday - 

Friday, 8 AM - 9 AM. 

WATER AEROBICS - This one hour class is low-impact, which is easy on 

the joints. Monday-Friday, 9:05 AM-10:05 AM. Monday & Wednesday 

5:45 PM-6:45 PM. 

ARTHRITIS AQUATICS - This class consists of range of motion, 

muscle strengthening and endurance-building activities. Mondays, 

Wednesdays & Fridays, 11 AM - 12 PM. 

RECREATIONAL SWIM (call to reserve a spot) - There is no lap swimming 

at this time. Friday, 5 PM-6:30 PM - Saturday & Sunday, 2:30 PM-4 PM. 

Reservations may be made 1 day in advance for Harris County residents 

& those who reside within the Katy City Limits. Other counties may call 

the day of the Recreational Time. 

LAP SWIM/WATER WALK - Various times daily. (for ages 12years and up) 

LAP SWIM FOR AGES 8-11 Fridays, 4-4:45 PM, Saturdays and Sundays, 11:30 

AM-1:30 PM( in 30 minute increments). Call to reserve a lane. Reservations 

may be made 1 day in advance for Harris County residents & those who reside 

within the Katy City Limits. Other counties may call the day of. 

AMERICAN RED CROSS SWIM LESSONS - Ages 6 months - Adults. Call or 

come in to get schedule for lessons. 

WINTER CLEANUP SPECIAL 

20% Off Entire House or Roof Cleaning 

Free Estimates & Demos 

www. k- 

mpw. 

com 

support@k-mpw.com 

SERVICES OFFERED: 

Roof Cleaning - No Pressure Damage Free 

Power Washing - Low Pressure Damage Free 

Pressure Washing - High Pressure 

Marcus Raif - Owner / Operator 

Exterior House Cleaning Specialists 


24 


RECIPES 

Lighter Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo 

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 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 

Discount Fence Company 

“When a good job really matters.” 

Residential and Commercial Fences 

• Wood Privacy Fences 

• Chain Link Fences 

• Fence Repairs 

• Insured and Bonded 

• Free Estimates 

• Tree Trimming (Certified Arborist) 

No Job Too Big 

or Too Small 

Daniel Burgess 

832-378-2337 

HAPPY TAILS PET SITTING 

LET YOUR PET STAY HOME WHILE YOU TRAVEL 

FULL PET CARE 

FULL HOME CARE 

TLC FOR YOUR PET WHILE YOU'RE AWAY 

INSURED & BONDED 

832-437-8573 

Winner - Best of Katy 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 , 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015 Katy Business Hall of Fame 

Member Pet Sitters International 

Cream Cheese Brownies 

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 


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. 

Amelia Norabuena 

MAID SERVICES 

281-912-5036 

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus 

We are looking for volunteers 18 years old and up, be committed once 

a week 3-4 consecutive hours for a minimum of six months. Different 

assignments are available to choose from 7 AM-midnight Monday - 

Sunday to support patients, families and staff. Please contact us if you 

are interested at 832-227-1185 or www.waystogive.texaschildrens.org/ 

ways-to-give/volunteer/. 

Volunteers Needed At 

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital 

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital has volunteer opportunities available. 

Whether you are interested in working in the nursery, at our reception 

desk, in our gift shop or even transporting patients, we have a place for 

you. For more information, please contact Heather Rojas, Manager of 

Volunteer Services at 281-644-7581. 

Volunteer Opportunities 

For Wildlife Advocates 

Enjoy a rewarding volunteer experience with wildlife. Texas Wildlife 

Rehabilitation Coalition, Inc. is a non-profit organization, which serves as 

an emergency care and rehabilitation facility for orphaned, ill, and injured 

native Texas wildlife. Volunteers are welcome in the areas of assisting in the 

daily functions of the center, assisting with public education programs, and 

wildlife rehabilitation. Located at 10801 Hammerly, Suite 200, the facility is 

open seven days a week to help wildlife in need. TWRC has a mentor program 

in place to assist volunteers with “hands on” training for those interested in 

becoming permitted rehabilitators. We invite you to join our organization in 

saving Texas wildlife - one animal at a time. Call the center at 713-468-8972 

for more information or email the Volunteer Coordinator at coordinator@ 

twrcwildlifecenter.org. Visit our website at www.twrcwildlifecenter.org. 

26 

Pregnancy Help Center 

Seeks New Volunteers 

Invest your time by volunteering with Pregnancy Help Center 

of West Houston educating and supporting men and women in 

making healthy choices for life in sexual integrity, unplanned 

pregnancy and post-abortion loss. Volunteer opportunities include 

mentoring, facilitating small groups, administrative assistance, 

medical services, donation room and development. Discover your 

calling! 

For information inquire through the web site vsc@phckaty.org or call 

281-578-0078, Volunteer Services Coordinator. The Pregnancy Help 

Center of West Houston is a non-profit faith based organization. 

SIRE, Houston’s Therapeutic 

Equestrian Centers 

Nothing else can compare with therapy on horseback. Equine-assisted 

activities improve physical balance and coordination, mental acuity, 

emotional stability and social interactions. At SIRE, we see miracles on 

horseback happen every day. The work of our dedicated volunteers 

helps guarantee that children and adults with disabilities in the Greater 

Houston Area will have the programs they need to live longer, healthier, 

more productive lives. 

In addition to their weekly work in the arena, many of our volunteers 

donate their time and talents at fund-raising events such as our annual 

Ride-A-Thon and the yearly Trailblazers Luncheon. Volunteers are on 

hand during the NARHA on-site certification and annual SIRE Show-Off 

and volunteers are vital to our Clients’ successes at the Top Hands Horse 

Show, during the Houston Rodeo and competition at the regional and 

state Special Olympics. Therapeutic horseback riding creates a bond 

of success between the rider and their horse. Volunteers are their own 

personal cheering section and the instructor is their mentor and coach. 

Clients become more empowered and better equipped to fully live their 

lives, each day. 

To volunteer, please call one of our arenas and ask to speak with a 

volunteer coordinator. SIRESpring, call 281-353-6160. SIREHockley, call 

281-356-7588. SIRE Fort Bend, call 281-344-4308. 


Wood Flooring Center 

When honesty and integrity counts, call us! 

17322 Highway 3, Webster, TX 77598 • 713-972-2091 

woodflooringcenter.us 

Volunteers Needed At 

Autumn Grove Cottage 

Do you enjoy spending time with seniors? Autumn Grove Cottage is an 

assisted living facility for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia related 

illnesses. We are interested in volunteers socializing with our Residents. 

We are a small cottage, close to your neighborhood, with just 16 Residents. 

If you would like to volunteer in a cozy, home-like atmosphere then call 

the Volunteer Coordinator at 281-398-6845 or visit our website www. 

autumngrovecottage.com. Come be a part of our philosophy - “To honor 

our Residents and those who love and care for them.” Volunteers will need 

to complete a volunteer application and attend a brief training session. 

Become A Sunrise Volunteer 

Fond memories and treasured traditions start here! Enrich lives through 

your generous gift of service as a Sunrise Volunteer. Please call the 

Activity and Volunteer Coordinator for opportunities and details at 281- 

240-0500 or email cinco-ranch.avc@sunriseseniorliving.com. Sunrise 

Assisted Living of Cinco Ranch is located at 21939 Cinco Ranch Blvd., 

Katy, Texas, 77450. For more information, you can also visit our website 

at www.sunriseseniorliving.com. 

Volunteer Katy 

Meet with other local people who will gather and discuss/plan community 

service projects and try to figure out the best way to make a difference 

in our community. All volunteers welcome. Contact: Linda Wilson at 281- 

222-1771 or visit http://volunteerism.meetup.com/230. 

Katy Community Giving Circle 

Needs Volunteers 

The Katy Community Giving Circle is open to any resident in the Katy area 

who wants to make a difference by giving collectively. Our mission is to 

create a circle of giving in our community by collectively contributing to 

organizations that will benefit or improve the lives of the people in our 

neighborhoods. By combining members tax deductible donations of just 

$10 per month, we are determined to make a greater giving impact! In our 

first year we have been able to gift grants to 2 local organizations and we 

are building a community of giving friends. For more information, please 

visit our Facebook page facebook.com/katycommunitygivingcircle. 

Clothed By Faith 

We are looking for volunteers to join our amazing team! Please see 

our website www.clothedbyfaith.com for more information or email 

yiasmere@clothedbyfaith.org. Located at 802 Dominion Drive, Suite 100 

in Katy. CBF demonstrates God’s love through the provision of gently 

used clothing to those in need. 

Houston Children’s Charity 

Join a group of people dedicated to improving the lives of children. If 

you are searching for a good cause to lend a hand to, you need look no 

further. Houston Children’s Charity is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization 

dedicated to improving the quality of life for underprivileged, abused 

and disabled children who have been otherwise left behind. The scope of 

our support is limited only by the availability of resources. Our goal, the 

rainbow that we chase, is to leave no legitimate request for assistance 

unanswered. 

Do you have the time and desire to volunteer to help a great cause? We are 

always in need of volunteers to help throughout the year. This is a great 

way for school age kids to get in community service hours. Do you have 

gently used children’s clothing, shoes and jackets? At Houston Children’s 

Charity we are setting up the “HCC Closet.” All of the items donated will 

be given to children - not sold at a retail store. Please contact our office at 

713-524-2878 or visit our website www.houstonchildrenscharity.org for 

more information on our organization. 

Standup For Kids 

How would you feel if you saved a kid’s life? StandUp For Kids is an 

all volunteer organization dedicated to saving the lives of at-risk and 

homeless kids through volunteer outreach efforts. Our volunteers search 

the streets in order to find, stabilize and otherwise help homeless and 

street kids improve their lives. Every day throughout the US thirteen kids 

die on the streets from abuse, disease and suicide. According to recent 

statistics Houston has up to 2,500 kids living on the streets at any given 

time. Texas has the highest rate of homeless youth in the U.S. 

StandUp For Kids needs supplies for our Houston program, which 

provides food, clothing, counseling and a safe environment for the 

homeless youth of Houston. If you or your organization would like to 


hold a food or clothing drive for StandUp For Kids, please contact me 

at HeatherE@standupforkids.org to learn more about StandUp For Kids 

or how you can help, visit our website at www.standupforkids.org. The 

single greatest need, for homeless and street kids is our continuous 

caring and real support. We must convince them that we care, we want 

them back and we want to help them get off the streets. 

Adopt A US Soldier 

Adopt A US Soldier is a non-profit organization that seeks volunteers and 

donors to help show the brave men and women fighting for our freedom 

that their sacrifices will not go unnoticed. It connects supportive civilians 

with deployed soldiers and offers a channel by which to communicate 

encouragement and express gratitude to those serving in the United 

States Armed Forces. Adopt A US Soldier is sustained by its volunteer 

workforce located across the United States. After a supporter asked a 

soldier what they needed, his response was as follows: “No requests, 

just don’t want to be forgotten.” -LCPL O.J.T. III When registering for 

Adopt A US Soldier your involvement can range from writing letters and 

sending postcards, to mailing care packages full of items a soldier may 

need or want. Handwritten letters are most important and meaningful 

to soldiers. Adopt A US Soldier encourages civilians to adopt a soldier to 

show your support for those that are making sacrifices for our country. If 

interested, please go to www.adoptaussoldier.org to register. 

Spanish Meadows Volunteer Opportunity 

In just 1 hour you could touch the hearts of at least 4 seniors. Do you have 

a little free time? Do you enjoy the company of seniors? We would love 

to have you volunteer your time and services to our wonderful residents. 

Spanish Meadows Nursing and Rehab opened its doors in the fall of 2005 

bringing quality care in a luxury environment to Katy and surrounding 

communities. We are located at 1480 Katy Flewellen Road, Katy, TX 

77494. To get further information on volunteering, please contact Robbin 

at 281-394-0088 or spanishmeadowsactivities@gmail.com. Please visit 

our website at www.spanish-meadows.com. 

Volunteer Opportunities at 

Houston Aphasia Recovery Center 

HARC, a non-profit wellness facility for persons with aphasia, is 

looking for volunteers to help in our programs. HARC is located at 

3701 Briarpark Drive, Suite #310, Houston 77042, which is just inside 

of Beltway 8 in the Westchase district of town. We offer training and 

support to all of our volunteers. Volunteer days and times are flexible 

based on need. For more information, contact our center at 713-781- 

7100. More information about HARC and aphasia is also available on 

our website: www.harctx.org. 

28 

Katy Christian Ministries 

Needs Volunteers 

Katy Christian Ministries is looking for volunteers to help in various areas 

of the ministry and special events. If you would love to make a difference 

in the community by volunteering, please visit our website at www. 

ktcm.org, email volunteer@ktcm.org or call 281-391-5261 for further 

information. 

HealthBridge Volunteering 

HealthBridge Children’s Hospital, www.healthbridgehouston.com, 

located in the Westchase District of Houston is looking for volunteers. 

Our 40 bed pediatric facility helps children ages 0-21 years of age as 

they transition from hospital to home. Volunteers can assist our team 

with direct patient interactions (play, baby holding, reading, mentoring) 

and indirect patient care (greeters, phone reception and administrative 

tasks). Volunteer hours vary, please contact Ellyn Poole at epoole@ 

nhsltd.com for more information. 

Volunteers Wanted At 

Buckner Hospice Of Houston 

Buckner Hospice of Houston is in need of volunteers. We offer many 

different volunteer opportunities from Patient visits to office duties. 

Hours of very flexible to fit your busy schedule. You donate the number of 

hours you can. Please contact Toni Cruse Volunteer Coordinator at 281- 

493-6800 or 713-918-9320 for more information. 

The Thomas A. Glazier Senior 

Education Center Has Volunteer 

Opportunities Available 

STAY ACTIVE. STAY ENGAGED. A new place for seniors to learn, located 

at 16600 Pine Forest Lane, near Texas 6 and Clay Road. Free classes 

available to Harris County residents 55 and older on subjects ranging 

from basic computer skills to digital photography to astronomy, photo 

editing and memory enhancement. We need you in our classrooms! Get 

free volunteer training. Teach your own computer class. Contact us now 

at 713-274-3250 or email us: glaziersec@hctx.net. Operated by Harris 

County Precinct Three Commissioner Steve Radack. 

Katy Quilters Needs Help For Charities 

Calling on all the quilters in the area to help make pillowcases and small 

blankets. This last year we donated over 200 pillowcases and small 

blankets to various charities. The demand is even higher with all of the 

families that have lost their homes because of the fires in and around 


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! 

Kerri Graham 

Attorney at Law 

Christy Theander 

Attorney at Law 

21559 Provincial Blvd., Suite A 


Graham & Theander 

(281) 940-3000 

www.gtkatylaw.com 

•Probate 

•Guardianship 

•Estate Planning/Wills 

•Medicaid 

•Divorce/Child Support 

•Contested Will 

•Contested Guardianship 

•Special Needs Planning 

our area. We need you and we have fabric that has been donated but we 

need your hands and time to make someone smile. If you would like to 

help, call the Katy Quilters, Shari Medford at 281-635-3000. 

Volunteer Opportunities: 

Vantage Hospice 

Vantage Volunteers Needed! Looking to volunteer in a way that makes 

a difference in people’s lives? This is it! Our compassionate volunteer 

team takes an individualized approach to care. We help provide the best 

quality of life, for the end of life. This is accomplished through social 

interaction, companionship, active listening and activities. In addition, 

sometimes we aide and support the family by relieving the caregiver. If 

interested, contact Tracy Roth at troth@vantagehospice.com. 

Foster Children: Preparation 

For Adult Living (Pal) 

When foster children reach age 18, they are considered independent. 

That’s difficult for kids who have been wards of the state, with necessities 

arranged by caseworkers with state funds. Now they’ll have to figure 

out how to organize themselves and make their money last a whole 

month. Fortunately, Child protective Services offers them a program 

to help prepare for independence: Preparation for Adult Living (PAL). 

The year-long course culminates in an all-day workshop hosted by 

the National Council for Jewish Women (NCJW). The course is held at 

Junior Achievement’s BizTown, using computer kiosks sponsored by 

local businesses. Want to help with PAL or other NCJW programs that 

help change lives with hands-on community service? Contact info@ 

ncjwhouston.org or see www.ncjwhouston.org. 

Volunteer Opportunities 

At Christ Clinic Katy 

Christ Clinic Katy is a nonprofit that provides quality healthcare to 

uninsured and underinsured patients living Fort Bend and Harris 

Counties. Volunteers Medical Providers (MD, DO, NP, PA or specialty 

provider) Nurses, Medical Assistants, medical students and individuals 

looking to learn more about the medical field are needed to help Christ 

Clinic fulfill its mission. To volunteer, please call Beverly Allen at 281- 

574-1540 or via email at beverly@christclinickaty.org. Or visit www. 

christclinickaty.org to register for an upcoming volunteer orientation. 

Literacy Advance of Houston 

is looking for volunteers 

Your way to transform a life in need… Teach someone to read! Just 

a few hours a week can make all the difference for someone in your 

community! Literacy Advance is Houston’s largest and oldest 100% 

volunteer-supported literacy organization - and we need your help! 

We’re calling all passionate volunteers to help adults learn to read, 

write and speak English. All classes are free because they are taught 

by caring people just like you willing to volunteer a few hours a week. 

We’d love to match you with a person in need. Ola read her first book 

at age 49, thanks to a tutor just like you. Prior teaching experience 

is welcome but not necessary. Training and ongoing support is 

provided and we have locations across the city. Other volunteer 

opportunities are available as well, to find out more please contact 

Anna Zubkova, Volunteer Manager, at tutor@literacyadvance.org or 

at 713-266-8777 ext.16. 

Give Back & Mentor A Local Juvenile 

Please commit to becoming a positive adult role model for the youth 

in our community. The juveniles are referred by the Fort Bend County 

Juvenile Probation Department. There are so many children in need of a 

listening ear and encouragement. Come forward and be that person for 

someone in need… you may be the ONLY one! Mentors must be 21 years 

of age and willing to give a minimum of an hour per week. Please contact 

Susan Bearden at 281-633-7317, susan.bearden@fortbendcountytx.gov 

or www.facebook.com/fortbendjpdspecialprograms. 

Give A Senior The Gift Of Mobility! 

Katy Area Ride Service Needs Your Help 

Driving Older Adults 

Katy Area Ride Service (KARS) is looking for your assistance in 

transporting seniors in need of personal (hair salon, bank, classes, 

volunteering, visiting a loved one, taking a pet to the vet) and 

occasional medical rides. Rides are provided in your personal vehicles 

to passengers who are age 65+ and ambulatory (not wheelchair bound, 

may use walking aids). Time commitment is flexible and you choose 

the Katy territory in which you want to drive. Volunteers do not provide 

rides that go east of Barker Cypress, north of Clay Road, west of FM 1463 

or south of Bellaire Blvd at the Grand Parkway. Benefits to Volunteer 

Drivers include the opportunity to help seniors retain independent 

living, dignity and freedom. Drivers tell us the day(s) and times they are 

able to drive. Drivers choose if they wait for the senior or return later 

to pick them up. Drivers must be between 21 years of age and 78 years 

of age with a good driving record, pass a background check and show 

proof of insurance coverage (state minimums) as required by the State 

of Texas. To request a volunteer driver application, call 832-773-8645 

or email info@karskaty.org. KARS operates under an official 501(c)(3) 

that designates it as a transportation service provider for seniors and 

non-wheelchair bound persons with disabilities. 


Krenek Printing 

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTERS 

www.krenekprinting.com 

281-463-8649 

RESIDENTS: 

Please support the businesses within 

this newsletter. It is because of their support 

that you receive this paper at no charge 

to you or your HOA. 

Share your community news with us. 

Non-profit, scouts, school, dated events, etc. send 

to news@krenekprinting.com 

ADVERTISERS: 

Want your ad to be placed in this newsletter 

and mailed to the homeowners every month? 

For more information, pricing or to view newsletters 

online please visit 

www.krenekprinting.com or email 

ads@krenekprinting.com 

BUSINESS FINDER: 

Search for businesses in your local area 

and find great deals on the goods and 

services you are looking for! 

LLC 

February Is Creative 

Romance Month 

February is being Creative Romance Month and many of you may feel like that is a 

lot of pressure! Don’t worry though because we’ve put together a list of romantic, 

yet creative ideas to make the month of February full of romance. 

Go On A Surprise Trip. What better way to spend time together than by going on 

a surprise trip? Instead of just telling your partner that you planned a getaway, 

make them work to figure out what their Valentine’s present is. Write the name of 

the destination on a piece of paper and cut it up into pieces that they have to put 

together. If you want to really build up the anticipation, you can always give them 

one piece of the puzzle a day leading up to Valentine’s Day. 

Kidnap Them For A Day. If your partner is into fun gags, put a blindfold on him or 

her and drive them to your chosen destination before you take the blindfold off. It 

can be something as simple as a romantic dinner to their favorite restaurant or a 

visit to their favorite museum. Tell them little clues along the way to see if they can 

actually guess where they are going. 

Act Like A Tourist. Just because you have lived in a city for a while it doesn’t mean 

that you’ve visited everywhere there is to go. For Valentine’s Day, do a little bit of 

research about restaurants or attractions that you and your partner have never 

been to before. Then on Valentine’s Day, act like tourists at the place you end up 

going too. Don’t just rush through the experience. Really soak it all in, spend a lot of 

time there and just have a good time overall. 

Can’t Get Away For A Few Days? Book A Hotel Room. If you and your partner want 

to go on a vacation, but don’t have the time, consider booking a really nice hotel 

room for 1-2 nights. Even though you won’t actually be leaving your city, it might feel 

like it if you choose the right hotel. Not only should the hotel you choose have plenty 

of activities and amenities, but it should be in a location that will allow you to easily 

enjoy restaurants and shops within walking distance. 

Share The Romance. If you and your partner are the kind of couple that likes to 

outdo one another, consider trading off. On even days you could plan romantic 

activities and on odd days it’s your partner’s turn. This can last for only a few days, 

a week or the entire month of February! If you really want to wow them consider 

going on a day cruise on your day or going camping for the night. 

Source: www.blog.atlastravelweb.com 

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. 

MOBILE: 

You now have access to our full website optimized 

for your mobile device, making it even easier to 

find the things you need on the go! 

MORE: 

Find information about advertising 

opportunities, article submissions, our 

company, and frequently asked questions. 

NOW OFFERING FULL COLOR 

PRINTING SERVICES! 

Call today for a quote! 

30 


40+ CREATIVE ROMANTIC IDEAS 

Imaginative Romantic Ideas 

Looking for some fun ways to add romance to your relationship? Try these 

creative romance tips: 

• Give your lover a dozen roses - with a creative twist. Give eleven red roses 

and one white rose. Attach a note that reads: “In every bunch there’s one 

who stands out - and you are that one.” 

• Get your partner a wristwatch. Inscribe it with: “I always have time for you.” 

• Identify that one pivotal event that brought the two of you together. 

Celebrate that event every year. 

• Practice even-day/odd-day romance: On even days it’s your turn to be 

romantic and on odd days it’s your partner’s turn. 

• Following a bubble bath you’ve prepared for her, wrap her in a towel that 

you’ve warmed up in the dryer. 

• Write your partner a love letter or poem on one sheet of paper. Glue it to 

thin cardboard, cut it up into puzzle-shaped pieces, then mail all the pieces. 

Or, mail one puzzle piece per day! 

• Remove all the paper strips (that say “Kisses” on them) from a couple 

hundred Hershey’s Kisses. Fill a jewelry box with them. Wrap ’em up and 

present them to your partner. Write a certificate explaining that the slips are 

coupons redeemable for one kiss each. 

• Doesn’t your partner deserve a trophy for being the “World’s Best Lover?” 

Trophy shops have a wealth of ideas waiting for you. Just think of the 

romantic possibilities of plaques, medals, ribbons, nameplates, certificates 

and banners. And they all can be personalized, engraved, lettered or 

monogrammed. 

Outrageous Romantic Ideas 

To make a big impression, consider these outrageous romance tips: 

• Visit a karaoke bar and surprise your lover by getting up and singing “your 

song” to him/her. 

• Kidnap her! Blindfold her. Drive her around town until she’s thoroughly 

lost. Then reveal your destination: Her favorite restaurant or maybe a 

romantic inn. 

• Make a giant greeting card out of a big cardboard box, (such as the type 

used to pack a refrigerator). 

• Does your partner love M&M’s? Fill a one-gallon glass jar with them as a gift. 

• Want to jazz up the presentation of a special meal? Buy a little hunk of 

dry ice from a local ice house. Put it in a bowl of water and place it on your 

serving tray. You’ll create wondrous, billowing white clouds! 

• It’s romantic - but commonplace - to eat dinner by candlelight. So, here’s a 

change of pace: Eat breakfast by candlelight. 

• Take your lover on a surprise two-week vacation to Paris. 

• Many couples have “His” and “Hers” matching towels, but here are 

some other ideas: “His” and “Hers” matching silk pajamas, motorcycles, 

T-shirts, overnight bags (have them packed at all times), jack-o’-lanterns 

at Halloween, rocking chairs, Porsches (millionaires need love, too), heartshaped 

tattoos, Christmas tree ornaments, tennis rackets, beach towels. 

Affordable Romantic Ideas 

Short on cash but big on love? Try these affordable romance tips: 

• Spend the entire day watching romantic movies. 

• If you’d like to spend a romantic summer night making wishes on falling 

stars, mark the second week in August on your calendar. The earth passes 

through the Perseid meteor belt around August 12 th every year, which 

usually results in spectacular meteor showers for two to three nights. 

• Buy a lottery ticket. Give it to your partner with a little note attached: “I hit 

the jackpot when I married you!” 

• Pick flowers for your partner from the side of the road. 

• Write a short note to your lover that’s spread out over several postcards, 

then mail the cards one at a time. You’ll build anticipation for the romantic 

conclusion on the final postcard. (Maybe deliver that last one in person.) 

• Don’t just go out to a movie on Saturday, like always. Call your partner 

from work on Wednesday and formally ask for a date. 

• Call a local radio station and request a special love song to be dedicated to 

your partner. Make sure he or she is listening! 

• Make a custom certificate for your lover. (You can get blank certificate forms 

at a stationery or paper store.) Here are some suggestions: A certificate “For 

Putting Up With Me Over the Years,” an award for “The World’s Best Wife,” a 

ribbon “For Hugs & Kisses Above and Beyond the Call of Duty.” 

Quick Romantic Ideas 

If you don’t have as much time as you’d like for love, try these swift but 

sweet romance tips: 

• Write “I love you” on the bathroom mirror with a piece of soap. 

• Place a little love note or poem under the driver’s-side windshield wiper 

of his or her car. 

• Every once in a while, kiss her hand with a flourish. Note: The proper way 

to kiss a woman’s hand is to lower your lips to her hand. You don’t raise her 

hand to your lips. 

• Have “your song” playing on the stereo when your partner returns home 

from work. 

• When out together in public, wink at your partner from across the room. 

• On your partner’s birthday, send a thank-you card to his/her mother. 

• Unplug the TV. Put a note on the screen saying, “Turn me on instead.” 

• Make a toast to one another every time you hold a wineglass. Make eye 

contact. Take turns making the toast. Whisper it. 

• Get the whole “family of products” in the fragrance of her favorite perfume 

(bath powder, soaps, creams, candles, etc.) 

• Call your partner from work for no other reason than to say, “I love you.” 

Classic Romantic Ideas 

Looking for a tried-and-true method for declaring your love? Consider these 

classic romance tips: 

• Spread rose petals all over the bedroom. 

• What could be more classic than a fine gold locket with your photo inside? 

(Maybe a photo of the two of you.) 

• Bring home one small, unexpected gift each week. 

• Write a classic, romantic, passionate, handwritten, heartfelt love letter. 

Most adults haven’t written a love letter since high school. (Why not? Have 

we lost our youthful idealism or have we just gotten lazy?) 

• When traveling, give your partner a bouquet of roses; one rose for each day 

that you’ll be away. Attach a note that says something like this: “These three 

roses represent the three days I’ll be away from you. They also symbolize 

the love, joy and laughter we share together.” 

• Say “I love you” at least three times a day. 

• Guys: Surprise her by performing one of her chores for her. (And not 

something easy like carrying the groceries in from the car, but something 

that requires some time and effort - like cooking all the meals over a 

weekend or cleaning the entire house.) 

• Ladies: Send him a letter sealed with a kiss. (Use your reddest lipstick.) 

• Hold hands. 

• On your yearly romantic checklist, make plans for Valentine’s Day - well 

in advance! 

Source: www.rd.com 


32

Katy Communicator February 2018

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?