27.02.2018 Views

Raintree Village March 2018

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong><br />

MARCH <strong>2018</strong><br />

Community News<br />

Important Numbers pg .3<br />

School News pg. 14<br />

Houston Events pg. 20<br />

Library News pg. 24<br />

Sports pg. 26<br />

Featured Recipes pg. 37<br />

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

Advertising: ads@krenekprinting.com • News: news@krenekprinting.com • www.krenekprinting.com<br />

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


www.RAINTREEVILLAGE.com<br />

RAINTREE VILLAGE BBQ COOK-OFF<br />

<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> HOA is hosting its first BBQ Cook-off. It’s scheduled for Saturday, <strong>March</strong><br />

17, <strong>2018</strong>. Contestants are limited to seven (7) individual or team grillers. Contact KPM<br />

Management for a registration form or email hollinsw@sbcglobal.net. The entry fee is $75.<br />

The form and entry fee is due no later than <strong>March</strong> 10, <strong>2018</strong>. Forms found on pages 5-7<br />

COMMUNITY EVENTS<br />

During the 2017 annual meeting as well as several Board meetings, you (fellow residents)<br />

suggested more community events. In an effort to meet this demand, a community cook<br />

off has been added to our <strong>2018</strong> community event list.<br />

The purpose of all community events is to provide opportunities whereby neighbors can<br />

come out get to know each other and have fun. Look for email alerts, the HOA website<br />

and banners for additional information as the scheduled date approaches. To ensure<br />

each event is successful, volunteers are needed.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 17, <strong>2018</strong>: 1 st Amateur Barbeque Cook-off - Clubhouse-3838 Webster Woods<br />

April <strong>2018</strong>: ANNUAL MEETING - Clubhouse-3838 Webster Woods<br />

May 26, <strong>2018</strong>: Pool Opening - Community Pool<br />

September 29, <strong>2018</strong>: Community Day - Community Pool<br />

December 1, <strong>2018</strong>: Reindeer Festival - Clubhouse-3838 Webster Woods<br />

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED<br />

You are reminded of our standing committees, which need ongoing<br />

volunteers. The committees are as follows:<br />

• Pool Committee (organizes Official Pool Opening Party<br />

& monitors activities during pool season)<br />

• Newsletter - submit articles<br />

• Yard of the Month - select section winners<br />

We also need volunteers for the listed community activities. Volunteering<br />

is an opportunity to make <strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> a better community<br />

for all the residents. If you’re interested in volunteering for<br />

any of the noted events or committees, contact Walonda Hollins<br />

at hollinsw@sbcglobal.net.<br />

COMMON VIOLATIONS OF DEED RESTRICTIONS<br />

<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> is a deed restricted community aimed at ensuring<br />

there’s aesthetic uniformity between residential properties and<br />

that certain other activities are limited. If you intend to do anything<br />

to the exterior of your home, you must complete an application<br />

for home improvements and modifications form. This includes<br />

installing a storage shed in your backyard.<br />

There’s also an expectation that all residents will maintain their yard<br />

and general appearance of the home. Common violations include<br />

overgrown yards, mold on homes, trashcans visible from the street<br />

and disabled vehicles. Our management company, KPM, drives<br />

through our community at least once a week assessing compliance<br />

with the deed restrictions. Any violations are communicated in a<br />

letter along with a picture of the violation (date & time stamped).<br />

It’s understandable that issuing or receiving such letters can be<br />

perceived as a nuisance. Yet, it’s necessary so that all of us remain<br />

on the same page of what constitutes a well-kept community (i.e.<br />

deed restrictions). In general, the Management Company and HOA<br />

Board understand residents are busy. Therefore, you are encouraged<br />

to contact the management company (KPM) when a violation<br />

cannot be addressed within stated timeframes noted in the letter.<br />

It cannot be emphasized enough that communication is the key if<br />

you do not understand a violation. You should also contact KPM<br />

once the violation has been resolved. Again, contact KPM or attend<br />

our HOA Board meetings for additional clarification.<br />

DRIVING IN RAINTREE VILLAGE<br />

Our community has grown significantly over the past year. Moreover,<br />

our community has numerous homes along our main street,<br />

<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong>. With such growth, it’s important that we’re more<br />

cognizant of our speed while driving through <strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> and<br />

parking on community streets.<br />

I’m sure everyone has noticed increased congestion along with cars<br />

parked along various streets within our community. However, it’s<br />

important that all of us adhere to the speed limit and encourage<br />

others to do the same.<br />

The following tips serve as a reminder for driving & parking in our<br />

community:<br />

1. Drive the speed limit - 35 miles per hour<br />

2. Do not block your neighbor’s driveway<br />

3. Make sure you park in the direction of traffic when parking<br />

on the street<br />

4. Make sure you park within 18 inches from the curb<br />

5. Remain mindful if the street is narrow, street parking<br />

impose greater limitations for emergency vehicles<br />

Finally, we must be mindful that emergency vehicles are wider<br />

than personal vehicles. Some community streets impose greater<br />

limitations for emergency vehicles when there’s street parking.<br />

Although residents have the right to park on the street, let’s be<br />

mindful of the aforementioned tips.<br />

2 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


www.RAINTREEVILLAGE.com<br />

TIPS TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF BURGLARY<br />

It cannot be stated enough of the importance of minimizing our exposure<br />

to crime. Our contract deputies stated that certain vehicles<br />

have increased exposure to theft, specifically the tires and rims.<br />

The vehicles commonly targeted are Ford F150, Dodge Chargers<br />

and Chevy Tahoes. Although these vehicles have rim locks, another<br />

safeguard is to park your vehicle in the garage or close to another<br />

vehicle. Anyway, you can either slow down or cause attention will<br />

help reduce the risk of theft.<br />

Be mindful to breakdown bags and boxes of large purchases, if possible<br />

place in trash bins or bags. Although it’s time consuming and<br />

burdensome, it doesn’t call attention to such items in your home.<br />

The list below simply reminds us of other things we should be<br />

mindful each day.<br />

1. Take the time to meet and know your neighbors. Let them know if<br />

you notice anything unusual such as cars or people at their homes.<br />

2. Make sure to close garage doors when at home & away.<br />

3. Don’t keep garage door openers in the car, take them in the<br />

house with you; a garage door opener makes it easier for someone<br />

to enter your garage or house to remove personal property.<br />

4. Keep car doors locked and take valuables either in your home<br />

or ensure the items are not in plain site; remember to take down<br />

the attachment for your Garmin too, as it alerts individuals that<br />

something valuable may be in the car.<br />

5. If possible, keep a car in a driveway as it gives an impression<br />

that someone is home.<br />

6. Keep all shrubs and plants at a level low enough that passing by<br />

officers or other residents can see if someone is lurking in those<br />

bushes! Shrubs should also be trimmed high enough to show “feet”<br />

of someone hiding in them.<br />

7. Have keys in hand before leaving the store, house or office,<br />

avoiding standing by the car searching for them.<br />

8. Don’t leave ladders on the side of the house or in the back yard.<br />

Ladders provide easy access to open second floor windows and<br />

no one will be able to see.<br />

9. Make sure you close blinds when you are inside at night with<br />

the lights on, potential burglars can see right inside and know<br />

who is at home.<br />

10. Use sensor lights outside the home. It deters criminals by “spot<br />

lighting” their efforts to enter your home.<br />

11. Use double key locks: locks that require a key from the outside<br />

and from the inside.<br />

12. Repair any broken areas of your fence, reducing the access of<br />

potential burglars or mischievous kids.<br />

13. When on vacation, let your neighbor(s) know so they can keep<br />

an eye out for suspicious activity. You can also inform the Harris<br />

County Deputy’s Office serving our area. The Storefront Office is<br />

located 19818 Franz Rd., Katy, TX 77449, 281-647-9371. The storefront<br />

hours: 9 AM - 5 PM.<br />

14. When on vacation, keep yards mowed and trimmed, burglars<br />

spend a lot of time in a neighborhood looking for their next targets.<br />

Overgrown yards are a sure sign no one’s home.<br />

<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> Homeowners Association, Inc.<br />

c/o KPM Management<br />

16360 Park Ten Place # 310<br />

Houston, TX 77084<br />

281-685-3090<br />

Mgmt@kpmmanagement.com<br />

www.raintreevillage.com<br />

Trash Pick Up Days • Tues/Fri (Friday Recycle)<br />

BOARD OF DIRECTORS<br />

President<br />

Vice President<br />

Secretary<br />

Treasurer<br />

Member<br />

SECURITY/EMERGENCY<br />

Bryon Meyer<br />

Brandon Liggins<br />

Gabe Contreras<br />

Walonda Hollins<br />

Maurina McClean<br />

Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance) 911<br />

Sheriff (Non-emergency) 713-221-6000<br />

Fire Dept. (non-emergency/events) 281-578-2518<br />

Sheriff (Fry Road) 281-647-9371<br />

Katy Police (Non-emergency) 281-391-4848<br />

Crime Stoppers 281-999-3191<br />

COMMUNITY/UTILITIES<br />

Texas Aquatics 713-416-5161<br />

Mem. Hermann Katy Hospital 281-644-7000<br />

Water District Management 281-376-8802<br />

Reliant Energy 713-207-7777<br />

Street Light Repair 713-207-2222<br />

Best Trash 281-313-2378<br />

Comcast Cable 713-341-1000<br />

Gas Leak 1-800-376-9663<br />

www.centerpointenergy.com/outage<br />

SCHOOLS<br />

RAINTREE VILLAGE<br />

IMPORTANT NUMBERS<br />

Franz Elementary 281-237-8600<br />

McDonald Jr. High (North) 281-237-5300<br />

McDonald Jr. High (South) 281-237-7400<br />

Morton Ranch HS 281-237-7800<br />

KISD Administration 281-396-6000<br />

HARRIS COUNTY NUMBERS<br />

Poison Control 1-800-764-7661<br />

Animal Control 281-999-3191<br />

Mosquito Control 713-440-4800<br />

Commissioner Radack 281-463-6300<br />

US Post Office 1-800-275-8777<br />

Katy Library 281-391-3509<br />

Maude Marks Library 281-492-8592<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

3


www.RAINTREEVILLAGE.com<br />

BE SURE ADDRESS is CLEAR FROM THE STREET<br />

County officials want to remind residents of the Ordinance 5.3 requiring<br />

that addresses or building numbers be legible and visible<br />

from the street. The section states the numbers must be in Arabic<br />

numerals at least four inches in height and clearly visible. The<br />

number should be placed on, above or at the side of the main entrance<br />

so the number is clearly visible from the public right away.<br />

Whenever a home entrance is more than 50 feet from a public right<br />

away, a number should also be placed at the end of a driveway or<br />

property entrance.<br />

SATELLITE DISHES<br />

It’s come to HOA’s attention that the installation of satellite dishes<br />

on some homes violates the deed restrictions. Satellites are expected<br />

to be installed out of sight of public view. The Association<br />

appreciates residents taking the time to ensure compliance.<br />

RAINTREE VILLAGE HOA WEBSITE<br />

WWW.RAINTREEVILLAGE.COM<br />

We encourage you to visit our community website. The website<br />

includes a link to review current crime statistics for our community<br />

(www.crimereports.org) and pictures of Yard of the Month winners.<br />

As a fellow resident, you’ll have access to critical information regarding<br />

the HOA budget and annual meeting minutes.<br />

The aforementioned information can only be accessed by establishing<br />

a log-on user name and password. A request for an email address<br />

during the initial signup process will enable residents to receive alerts<br />

of upcoming events or critical notices. If you have any suggestions,<br />

please contact KPM Management Office at 281-685-3090.<br />

STREETLIGHTS<br />

We want all of our streetlights to work. A lighted area is a safer<br />

area. If a streetlight is out in your area, please go to www.centerpointenergy.com<br />

and report it. Once on the website, click on<br />

“electricity” then “residential.” On the left side, you should click<br />

on “report a streetlight outage” to enter the required information.<br />

Each light pole should have a number on it. When reporting the out<br />

or malfunctioning light, give them the pole number, closest street<br />

address, contact information, an email address and the number of<br />

street lights you would like to report.<br />

THE STANDING RULES FOR RAINTREE VILLAGE<br />

HOA BOARD MEETINGS<br />

The Board of Directors feels it serves you best when the Board meetings<br />

are conducted in an orderly manner. The HOA Board Meetings<br />

are held to conduct Association business. Your cooperation in this<br />

regard is requested. Parliamentary Procedure is followed at this<br />

Meeting.<br />

There are two sessions at the HOA Board Meetings, an open session<br />

when members may be present and an executive session when no<br />

members are permitted.<br />

Board Meeting will begin with the open session at 7 PM until 7:15<br />

PM when that time slot has been filled, members must wait until<br />

the next month’s meeting to be placed on the agenda.<br />

Your opinion is important to the Board of Directors. The Board desires<br />

to hear from Members who have information concerning the<br />

Association. During the portion of the Meeting in which the Chair<br />

accepts questions or comments from the floor, please proceed in<br />

the following manner.<br />

1. If you wish to address the Board, please contact the Board at<br />

least 10 days prior to Meeting to be added to the agenda. You also<br />

have to state the topic to be discussed and stay on that topic only.<br />

2. Any Member wishing to address the Board shall speak no more<br />

than two (2) minutes.<br />

3. No Member may speak more than once on the subject and no<br />

more than two (2) minutes, until all Members who wish to speak<br />

have done so.<br />

4. Members of the audience shall not be permitted to interrupt nor<br />

question any speaker.<br />

5. After the speaker has finished addressing the Board, the Meeting<br />

Chairperson will recognize the next Member to speak.<br />

6. Members in attendance are not permitted to engage in private<br />

discussions during the open session and must remain quite or leave<br />

the meeting room.<br />

7. Violations of these Standing Rules will not be tolerated. Violators<br />

may be requested to leave the Meeting.<br />

Happy Spring!<br />

RAINTREE TEENAGE JOB SEEKERS LIST<br />

If you are between 12 and 18 and would like to be added to the teenage<br />

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

krenekprinting.com, click submissions and choose Jobseekers)<br />

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

graduate and the name of your newsletter/subdivision. Check the<br />

list of jobs you want on your form. Please make sure your email is<br />

correct, we send emails in the summer to make sure all the info is<br />

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

back from you after 3 tries, we will remove you from the list until<br />

we do. Must have parent(s) permission.<br />

DISCLAIMER<br />

Neither the subdivision, nor Krenek Printing is responsible for those<br />

listed on the Teenage Job Seeker List. Please ask for and check<br />

out references if you do not personally know those listed. This is<br />

just a list of teenagers from the subdivision who wish to find part<br />

time jobs. Responsibility for any work done by these teenagers is<br />

between those seeking helpers and the teens and their parents.<br />

CODE KEY:<br />

B - BABYSITTING, CPR - CPR CERT., FAC - FIRST AID CERT., RCC - RED CROSS CERT.,<br />

SS - SAFE SITTER, SL - SWIM LESSONS, PP - PET/PLANT SITTER, P - PET CARE<br />

ONLY, H - HOUSE CARE, L - LAWN CARE, C- CAR CARE/DETAILING, T - TUTORING<br />

TEENAGE JOB SEEKER’S LISTMAY NOT BE VIEWED<br />

ONLINE AVAILABLE IN PRINTED NEWSLETTERS ONLY<br />

4 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong><br />

Community BBQ Contest<br />

Three Categories: [ ] Chicken [ ] Pork Ribs [ ] Specialty<br />

Griller or Team Name: _______________________________________________________<br />

Phone# _________________________ Address____________________________________<br />

If Competing as a Team List Each Member:<br />

1. ____________________________________ 3. _______________________________________<br />

2. ____________________________________ 4. _______________________________________<br />

Entry Fee: $75 entry fee. You may choose to enter one or more categories as stated above for the one entry <br />

fee. <br />

Awards: Trophies will be given in three places with the 1 st place trophy as the “Best All Around” in the meat <br />

category (Chicken and Pork Ribs must submit entries for both); A 1 st place trophy will be awarded for <br />

Chicken, Pork Ribs and the Specialty Category. <br />

Registration: Registration and entry fee must be received no later than Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 10, <strong>2018</strong>. Make <br />

check or money order out to <strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> HOA. <br />

Check In: Check-­‐in begins at 6am and ends at 7:30 am on Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 17, <strong>2018</strong>. NO EXCEPTIONS. All <br />

contestants must be set up and ready to cook by 8:00am on Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 17, <strong>2018</strong>. After meat inspection, <br />

grillers are allowed to start/cook any time after check-­‐in/set up until cooking end time of 1:00 pm. <br />

Contestants that leave the property after check-­‐in and before Judging will be disqualified. <br />

Judging: Judging will be done in one round and begin on Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 17, <strong>2018</strong> at 1:15pm. Each griller <br />

must submit 3 samples in the supplied containers provided at check in. There will be a total of three (3) <br />

judges. JUDGES DECISIONS ARE FINAL. <br />

Community Service: Each team must grill hamburgers and hotdogs for the event. Meat will be provided by <br />

<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> and must be ready for distribution no later than 1pm. Failure to provide community service <br />

will result in a disqualification. <br />

Rules: See additional sheet for complete rules and regulations. <br />

By signing this document, the contestant agrees they have read and will abide by all rules and regulations set forth as<br />

established by <strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> HOA. If competing as a team, each team member must sign.<br />

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: __________________________<br />

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: __________________________<br />

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: __________________________<br />

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: __________________________ <br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

5


RULES & REGULATIONS<br />

1. Contestant – A contestant is any individual or group that will prepare and cook an entry or entries for <br />

the purpose of being judges. The contest organizer may not cook in any category in this contest. <br />

Contestant will be referred to as “Griller”. <br />

2. Interpretation of Rules – The interpretation of the rules and regulations are those of the contest <br />

organizer and his or her decisions are final. <br />

3. Refund of Entry Fees – There will be no refund of entry fees unless approved by organizing committee. <br />

4. Equipment – Each Griller will supply all of the equipment necessary for the preparation and cooking of <br />

their entry including a cooker. COOKER can only be one of the following: charcoal, wood or propane <br />

fired device. (NO OPEN PIT FIRES) The health and safety of contestants and festival goers should be <br />

primary consideration when selecting appropriate cooking fuels. <br />

5. Meat Inspection – All meats must be USDA or state DA inspected and passed. All meat must be <br />

maintained at a maximum temperature of 40 degrees F prior to inspection. Prior to cooking, all meat <br />

that is resting in preparation for cooking must be covered at all times. AFTER inspection, the meats <br />

may be marinated, salted, seasoned and/or cooked by the GRILLER. All meat must be maintained at a <br />

minimum temperature of 140 degrees F in a covered container until turned in for judging. All contest <br />

meat, once inspected may not leave the Griller’s site until turned in for judging. <br />

6. Contestant’s site – Each Griller is required to keep all equipment including cooker, canopy, etc. <br />

contained within assigned space. <br />

7. Cleanliness and Sanitation – All Grillers are expected to maintain their cook sites in an orderly and <br />

clean manner and to use good sanitary practices during the preparation, cooking and judging process. <br />

The use of sanitary gloves is required at all times while handling food. Failure to use sanitary gloves <br />

may result in disqualification. Grillers are responsible for cleanup of their site once the competition <br />

has ended. All federal, state and local-­‐food safety rules and regulations must be adhered to all times. <br />

8. Meat Categories – Contestants must cook enough for three (3) judge’s plates. Chicken may be whole <br />

or halved. Pork ribs must be a minimum of four (4) ribs. For Specialty Category, it’s Griller’s choice and <br />

must be enough for three (3) judges. <br />

9. Judging – the Griller will submit Entries in the containers supplied at check in. NO GARNISH. Only the <br />

item (meat) to judge is allowed in the container. Each entry will be judged on APPEARANCE, <br />

TASTE/FLAVOR, TENDERNESS and TEXTURE. Meat may be sauced or not. A minimum of three (3) <br />

separate and identifiable portions per category in containers supplied to Griller at check-­‐in, must be <br />

submitted for judging. <br />

10. Scoring – Each entry will be scored by three (3) judges in the areas of APPEARANCE, TASTE/FLAVOR, <br />

TENDERNESS and TEXTURE. Scoring ranges from a low of 2 to a high of 9 increments of 1 point for <br />

each category. Any entry that is disqualified as per SECTION 11 will receive a score of zero for all four <br />

categories from all three judges at the table. <br />

11. Disqualification – An entry can be disqualified by the event organizer only. An entry can be disqualified <br />

for any of the following reasons: <br />

a. Anything foreign other than meat/sauce in a container submitted for judging; <br />

b. The entry is turned in after the officially designated time; <br />

c. Gloves are not used while handling food products; <br />

d. Not cooking the meat that was inspected <br />

e. There is not a minimum of 3 separate and identifiable containers for each category entered <br />

f. There is evidence of blood such that the meat is uncooked. <br />

6 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


12. Turn in Times – Cooking stops at 1:00pm. Turn in time for judging starts promptly at 1:15pm. Order of <br />

turn in: (a) Chicken, b) Pork Ribs and (c) Specialty. <br />

13. 12. Judging Turn Times Procedure – Cooking – the stops event at organizer 1:00pm. brings Turn in all time approved for judging containers starts to promptly the table. at He/She 1:15pm. announces Order of <br />

the turn number in: (a) Chicken, of containers b) Pork to Ribs be judged and (c) opens Specialty. each container and checks for rule violations as stated <br />

13. Judging above. The Procedure containers – the will event be passed organizer around brings to all the approved judges for containers sampling. to The the judge table. will He/She then announces score <br />

the each number entry for of TASTE/FLAVOR, containers to be TENDERNESS judged opens and each TEXTURE. container The and event checks organizer for rule makes violations sure as that stated all <br />

above. scores for The the containers containers will are be recorded passed around in the proper to the judges place. for This sampling. is repeated The for judge all containers. will then score After <br />

each entry container for TASTE/FLAVOR, has been scored, TENDERNESS the event organizer and TEXTURE. will return The event the container(s) organizer makes to the designated sure that all <br />

scores area. The for the event containers organizer are will recorded then collect in the the proper judging place. slips. This is repeated for all containers. After <br />

14. each Winners container – The winners has been in scored, each meat the event category organizer will be will determined return the by container(s) adding all the to scores the designated together for <br />

chicken area. The and event pork organizer ribs. The will Best then All Around collect the title judging will be slips. the Griller with the most total points and be <br />

14. declared Winners – the The 1 st winners place trophy in each winner. meat category The Griller will with be determined the next highest by adding total all will the receive scores 2 nd together place, etc. for <br />

chicken Three places and pork will be ribs. awarded The Best trophies. All Around In the title event will be of a the tie, Griller the next with lowest the most rank total will points be omitted and be and <br />

declared the tied Grillers the 1 st will place be trophy awarded winner. the same The Griller rank. There with the will next be one highest (1) trophy total will winner receive in the 2 nd specialty place, etc. <br />

Three category places that will had be the awarded most points trophies. in that In category the event only. of a <br />

tie, the next lowest rank will be omitted and <br />

15. the Grillers tied may Grillers not will sell be any awarded items. the same rank. There will be one (1) trophy winner in the specialty <br />

16. category ALL CONTESTANTS that had the MUST most SIGN points A RELEASE in that category AND WAIVER only. OF LIABILITY AT CHECK IN. <br />

15. Grillers may not sell any items. <br />

16. ALL CONTESTANTS MUST SIGN A RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY AT CHECK IN. <br />

MAIL COMPLETED FORMS AND ENTRY FEE TO: <br />

<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> HOA <br />

MAIL COMPLETED FORMS AND ENTRY FEE TO: <br />

C/O KPM Management <br />

<strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> HOA <br />

16360 Park Ten Pl #310, Houston, TX 77084 <br />

C/O KPM Management <br />

Phone: (281) 685-­‐3090 <br />

16360 Park Ten Pl #310, Houston, TX 77084 <br />

Questions – email hollinsw@sbcglobal.net <br />

Phone: (281) 685-­‐3090 <br />

Questions – email hollinsw@sbcglobal.net <br />

RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY <br />

It is my wish to participate in <strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> Community BBQ Contest being held on Saturday, <br />

<strong>March</strong> 17th at the community clubhouse. <br />

I understand, appreciate and acknowledge that property damage and injuries are common to <br />

such events. I fully assume the risk of such property damage and injuries and I participate in <br />

this voluntarily and with my full knowledge of the inherent risks. <br />

I hereby waive and release any and all rights that either my heirs, successors and assigns or I <br />

may have against <strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> Homeowners Association, its Board of Directors, their <br />

agents, servants and/or employees and volunteers, arising from my participation in this event, <br />

including but not limited to property damage and injuries. <br />

I further agree to indemnify and hold harmless all of the foregoing from any claim which may <br />

be made by me or on behalf of me by third parties which might be made against me by others, <br />

arising from my participation in the foregoing event. <br />

This waiver shall remain valid and may not be unilaterally rescinded by the participant. This <br />

form is to be signed by the participant, which is 18 years of age or older. <br />

In addition to the release and waiver of liability, signing this form acknowledges that you have <br />

read and fully understand the <strong>Raintree</strong> <strong>Village</strong> Community BBQ Contest Rules and <br />

Regulations. Also by signing, I give permission for my image to be used in advertising this <br />

event and to announce the winners of this competition in the local newspaper and radio. <br />

Signature: ____________________________________Date: ___________________ <br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

7


PREPARE FOR TAX SEASON <strong>2018</strong><br />

Here are 10 ways to get a jump start on your taxes now:<br />

• Figure out which forms you’ll need: There are many different tax<br />

forms for different financial situations. If you’re unsure which tax<br />

form to use, visit the IRS’s website or consult a professional.<br />

• Keep all receipts in the same place: If you’re someone who itemizes<br />

deductions, it is important to store all of your receipts together in<br />

the same place. If you lose any, it could cost you.<br />

• Store all tax returns together: Since we often have to reference the<br />

previous year’s return when preparing the current one, it’s a good<br />

idea to make sure you store them all in the same place.<br />

• Review/revise your W-4: If you’ve experienced any life changes from<br />

the previous year (adding or losing any family members), ask your<br />

employer if you can review your W-4. The IRS recommends doing<br />

this every year.<br />

• Do your research: If you plan to do your taxes on your own, make<br />

sure you educate yourself about the deductions you’re entitled to.<br />

If you plan to hire someone, check around and make sure they’re<br />

reputable.<br />

• Save your money: Unless you fill out the 1040EZ form and mail it<br />

in yourself, it’s going to cost you money to file your taxes.<br />

• Check your deductions: If you’ve had any major life events this year,<br />

you may be entitled to some sizable deductions. It’s a good idea to<br />

research all possible deductions to avoid overpaying your taxes.<br />

• Track all charitable donations: Charitable donations are tax-deductible,<br />

so if you have any monthly or one-off donations, make sure to<br />

keep track so that you can deduct these expenses from your taxes.<br />

From: USA today<br />

8 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME<br />

MARCH 11, <strong>2018</strong><br />

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is often wrongly referred to as “Daylight Savings,”<br />

with an “s” at the end. Other common variations are “Summer Time” and “Daylight-Saving<br />

Time.”<br />

The term “Daylight Savings Time” is very commonly used, especially in Australia,<br />

Canada and the United States. It’s likely that the incorrect term “savings” entered<br />

the popular vocabulary because it’s so often used in everyday contexts, like “savings<br />

account.”<br />

At the beginning of the DST period in the spring, clocks are moved forward,<br />

usually by 1 hour. When DST ends in fall (autumn), clocks are turned back again.<br />

DST does not add daylight, but it gives more usable hours of daylight. In that<br />

sense, DST “saves” daylight, especially during early spring. Standard time refers<br />

to time without DST.<br />

set your clock ahead one hour !!!<br />

VEGETABLES<br />

• Plant vegetables such as tomatoes, sweet corn and snap beans and pepper, as well as<br />

cucumbers, lima or butter beans, cantaloupe, okra (if the soil has warmed sufficiently<br />

- 70 degrees F. or higher), southern peas, pumpkin, squash, peanuts and watermelon.<br />

LAWN<br />

• Re-sod or replant as needed with turfgrasses adapted to this part of Texas<br />

and suited to the planting location (shade or sun).<br />

• When resodding semi-shaded areas with St. Augustine, use ONLY the variety<br />

Floratam for best pest resistance. See www.plantanswers.com/grass.htm.<br />

TREES AND SHRUBS<br />

• Plant container-grown trees and shrubs as soon as possible. In shady areas, where<br />

grass is difficult to grow, consider planting a dependable groundcover such as English<br />

ivy, Asian jasmine, vinca or one of the prostrate junipers.<br />

• Prune spring flowering and evergreen shrubs during early <strong>March</strong>. However, be sure<br />

to prune spring flowering shrubs after they have bloomed.<br />

• Fertilize with a pre-plant application of a slow-release fertilizer analysis such as 19 - 5 - 9 at the rate of 3 pounds per 100 square feet<br />

of garden planting area. Early <strong>March</strong> is the ideal time to fertilize landscape plants because you give them food just before the spring<br />

growing season starts.<br />

KATY PAINTING<br />

“Quality at a price you can afford.”<br />

Interior & Exterior Painting<br />

Home Repairs • Pressure Washing<br />

HardiPlank Installation<br />

Sheetrock & Texture<br />

Larry Mikeska<br />

Serving Katy since 1982 • Katy Resident 53 years<br />

281-391-1595 www.KatyPainting.net<br />

MARCH GARDENING TIPS<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

9


ELECTRICIAN<br />

$20 Off Any<br />

Service Call!<br />

1<br />

Not to be combined with any other discount or offer.<br />

WIRED<br />

Electrical Services<br />

Residential & Commercial<br />

Award Winner<br />

Master #100394 • TECL #22809<br />

24/7 Service<br />

Discount Fence Company<br />

“When a good job really matters.”<br />

Residential and Commercial Fences<br />

• Wood Privacy Fences<br />

• Chain Link Fences<br />

• Fence Repairs<br />

• Insured and Bonded<br />

• Free Estimates<br />

• Tree Trimming (Certified Arborist)<br />

No Job Too Big<br />

or Too Small<br />

5 Year<br />

Warranty*<br />

100% Customer<br />

Satisfaction<br />

Guaranteed!<br />

P Mount Flat Screens<br />

P Generators<br />

P Lighting<br />

P Add Circuits<br />

P Panel Replacement<br />

P Cable/Phone<br />

713-467-1125<br />

281-897-0001<br />

www.wiredes.com<br />

Family Owned<br />

& Operated<br />

Daniel Burgess<br />

832-378-2337<br />

PECKHAM PARK ACTIVITIES<br />

These classes are free with priority to Harris Co. residents.<br />

5597 Gardenia, 281-391-4482 - web www.pct3.hctx.net<br />

PRIORITY IS GIVEN TO HARRIS COUNTY RESIDENTS & THOSE WHO<br />

LIVE WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF KATY<br />

AMERICAN RED CROSS CLASSES - Community Lay Responder: Cost is $27, check<br />

or money order only & no refunds. This class is on Friday, <strong>March</strong> 2, <strong>2018</strong>, 1 PM-5<br />

PM. Includes Adult CPR with AED, Infant/Child CPR and Standard First Aid.<br />

Registration began 2/6/18.<br />

MARY JO PECKHAM PARK FISHING LAKE: The lake is a stocked. Rules are posted<br />

out by the lake. Park hours are 6 AM-10 PM. If you have questions, please call<br />

the Parks Office at 281-531-1592.<br />

ONGOING CLASSES<br />

LAND -<br />

PILATES - Mondays and Fridays - 10:30 AM-11:30 AM.<br />

YOGA - Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM &<br />

Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:30 PM-6:30 PM.<br />

ZUMBA - Tuesdays - 11 AM-12 PM (HC & KCL residents call Tuesday starting at 7<br />

AM for reservations, other counties call Tuesday starting at 10 AM) & Thursdays<br />

5 PM - 6 PM (HC & KCL residents, call Thursday starting at 7 AM for reservations,<br />

other counties call Thursday starting at 10 AM) and Saturdays - 8:15-9:15 AM<br />

(HC & KCL residents, call Friday starting at 7 AM for reservations, other counties<br />

call Friday starting at 10 AM).<br />

SENIOR OUTDOOR FIT & FUN - Tuesdays - 11-11:30 AM.<br />

FITNESS MACHINES – This is a time when you can work out on your own on the<br />

fitness equiPMent. You must be 16 year and up & bring a full size towel and wear<br />

atheletic shoes. Various times available daily. The machines are closed during<br />

class times.<br />

POOL -<br />

DEEP WATER AEROBICS - This hour class is a high cardio vascular workout.<br />

A flotation device is advised. Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 9 AM.<br />

WATER AEROBICS - This one hour class is low-impact, which is easy on<br />

the joints. Monday-Friday, 9:05 AM-10:05 AM. Monday &<br />

Wednesday 5:45 PM-6:45 PM.<br />

ARTHRITIS AQUATICS - This class consists of range of motion, muscle<br />

strengthening and endurance-building activities. Mondays, Wednesdays &<br />

Fridays, 11 AM - 12 PM.<br />

RECREATIONAL SWIM (call to reserve a spot) - There is no lap swimming at this<br />

time. Friday, 5 PM-6:30 PM - Saturday & Sunday, 2:30 PM-4 PM. Reservations<br />

may be made 1 day in advance for Harris County residents & those who reside<br />

within the Katy City Limits. Other counties may call the day of the Recreational<br />

Time.<br />

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

LAP SWIM FOR AGES 8-11 Fridays, 4-4:45 PM, Saturdays and Sundays, 11:30 AM-<br />

1:30 PM( in 30 minute increments). Call to reserve a lane. Reservations may be<br />

made 1 day in advance for Harris County residents & those who reside within<br />

the Katy City Limits. Other counties may call the day of.<br />

AMERICAN RED CROSS SWIM LESSONS - Ages 6 months - Adults. Call or come in<br />

to get schedule for lessons.<br />

10 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


HAPPY TAILS PET SITTING<br />

LET YOUR PET STAY HOME WHILE YOU TRAVEL<br />

FULL PET CARE<br />

FULL HOME CARE<br />

TLC FOR YOUR PET WHILE YOU'RE AWAY<br />

INSURED & BONDED<br />

832-437-8573<br />

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

Member Pet Sitters International<br />

ADVANCED<br />

HOME EXTERIORS<br />

https://typicallysimple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/SpringCleaningChecklist.png<br />

WE DON’T TRY TO DO IT ALL...<br />

WE ONLY DO WHAT WE DO BEST!<br />

SIDING, WINDOWS & ROOFING<br />

HardiePlank Siding & Exterior Painting<br />

<br />

<br />

$500 OFF *<br />

HardiePlank and Window Replacement<br />

*Minimum purchase required<br />

Hardie ColorPlus from<br />

Advanced Home Exteriors<br />

is recommended by<br />

Tom Tynan, HomeShow Radio<br />

Financing Available<br />

Call Today for Your Free Estimate!<br />

832-363-3772<br />

Your Neighborhood Plumber<br />

Aaron’s<br />

Up-front Pricing<br />

$25 OFF<br />

With this Ad<br />

Since 1974<br />

LIC. 17773<br />

Complete Plumbing & Drain Service<br />

We Welcome Your Questions • Open 7 Days a Week<br />

281-444-2000 www.aarons-plumbing.com<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

11


IS IT A TURTLE OR A TORTOISE?<br />

By Cheryl Conley, TWRC Wildlife Center<br />

Some lump anything with an outside shell into the turtle category<br />

when in fact there are distinct differences between turtles and<br />

tortoises. Both are reptiles but turtles live in the water and the<br />

tortoise is a land-dweller.<br />

Turtles are identifiable by their webbed feet and long claws. The<br />

webbing helps them swim. The tortoise has a heavier shell than<br />

the turtle and has short sturdy legs. Turtles are omnivores meaning<br />

they eat vegetation and meat. Tortoises tend to be herbivores but<br />

have been known to occasionally eat meat.<br />

Both turtles and tortoises date back 220 million years! They both<br />

have a very long lifespan with sea turtles living up to 70 years and<br />

the more common turtles living up to 40 years. Tortoises can live<br />

up to 150 years!<br />

Red-eared slider turtles became popular as pets when they were<br />

made available in dime stores. I know I had one in the 1950’s so<br />

they’ve been around a very long time! Their popularity soared<br />

when the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie came out. Because<br />

the turtles were released into the wild when pet owners got tired of<br />

them, they are now considered invasive in some states. A couple of<br />

states have outlawed the sale of them. These turtles tend to be a bit<br />

aggressive and make it difficult for other native species to compete<br />

for food and habitats. They can also introduce unknown diseases<br />

to the wild population when pet turtles are released into the wild.<br />

Probably the most unique turtle in our area is the softshell turtle.<br />

They live in the water and are carnivores. It has a flat shell and will<br />

often bury itself at the bottom of a lake, stream or bayou leaving<br />

only its neck and head exposed. It can breathe under water much<br />

like a fish.<br />

TWRC Wildlife Center cares for hundreds of turtles every year. Most<br />

are admitted because of injuries sustained from cars. In 2014,<br />

concerned citizens asked Missouri City to help protect turtles crossing<br />

the road. The City took a positive step by erecting road signs<br />

showing a mama turtle with three babies. TWRC Wildlife Center<br />

is a 38-year-old non-profit organization that is your resource for<br />

wildlife questions and concerns. Check out our website at www.<br />

twrcwildlifecenter.org or give us a call at 713-468-TWRC.<br />

12 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


IMPORTANT DATES & HOLIDAYS IN MARCH <strong>2018</strong><br />

MARCH OBSERVANCES & FUN FACTS<br />

Birthstone: Aquamarine<br />

<strong>March</strong> Flower: Daffodil<br />

Astrological Signs: Pisces (2/19-3/20) and Aries (3/21-4/20)<br />

The Anglo-Saxons called the month Hlyd monath which means<br />

Stormy month or Hraed monath which means Rugged month.<br />

<strong>March</strong> is observed as:<br />

• American Dietetic Association Month<br />

• National Nutrition Month<br />

• American Red Cross Month<br />

• Caffeine Awareness Month<br />

• Epilepsy Awareness Month<br />

• National Nutrition Month<br />

• Nutrition Month<br />

• Peanut Month<br />

• Women’s History Month<br />

Holidays:<br />

3/11: Daylight Saving Time starts<br />

3/17: St. Patrick’s Day<br />

3/20: Spring begins!<br />

3/25: Palm Sunday<br />

BUDGET FRIENDLY SPRING BREAK<br />

FAMILY HOT SPOTS<br />

A great spring-break vacation doesn’t need to break the bank.<br />

Whether you’re exploring a cool city or lounging on the beach,<br />

you can beat the winter blues with a budget spring break. Check<br />

out these budget friendly hot spots:<br />

Washington, DC: It doesn’t cost a dime to enjoy Washington, DC’s<br />

culture and history, especially during the Cherry Blossom Festival<br />

when the city is awash in delicate white and pink blossoms. Free<br />

events during the 2-week-long festival in early April include cultural<br />

performances, fireworks and a parade. There’s no charge for the<br />

main event - the stunning trees framing the Tidal Basin and around<br />

the Washington Monument.<br />

Ocho Rios, Jamaica: Jamaica is a popular spot for the spring-break<br />

party crowd, but families can find fun for a bargain at the Beaches<br />

Boscobel Resort and Golf Club. This all-inclusive resort boasts 5<br />

restaurants, 6 bars and 1 super cool water park with 9 twisting<br />

slides and kiddie pools.<br />

Sanibel Island, FL: Spring break falls during Sanibel Island’s high<br />

season from February to April when the weather is perfect and<br />

shelling along the sandy shores is at its best.<br />

Seattle, WA: You can explore Pike Place Market with your wallet<br />

intact, if you can exercise willpower at the nearly 200 shops and<br />

restaurants and both admission and parking are free at the Frye<br />

Art Museum.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

13


KATY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT<br />

WWW.KATYISD.ORG<br />

IMPORTANT DATES<br />

<strong>March</strong> 7 th - Family Night (No Homework Assigned)<br />

<strong>March</strong> 30 th - Holiday/Students and Staff<br />

MARCH 12 TH -16 TH<br />

KATY ISD RANKS AS THE TOP SCHOOL DISTRICT<br />

IN THE GREATER HOUSTON AREA<br />

The <strong>2018</strong> Best School Districts rankings have been announced and<br />

looks like “The Best is in the West” for the Greater Houston area,<br />

with Katy Independent School District taking the top spot.<br />

Niche, a ranking and review organization for K-12 schools, assesses<br />

school districts across America every year. Katy ISD received an<br />

overall grade of “A+” for its outstanding educational accomplishments.<br />

The rankings are based on rigorous analysis of key statistics,<br />

reviews from students and parents, as well as data from the U.S.<br />

Department of Education. Ranking factors include state test scores,<br />

college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality,<br />

public school district ratings and more.<br />

Katy ISD is known as one of the fastest growing school districts in the<br />

country and currently has an enrollment of over 77,000+ students.<br />

BAD WEATHER MAKE-UP DAYS<br />

Texas weather has not been kind and continues to bring many<br />

challenges to our community. Due to the wintery conditions that<br />

caused the District’s closure in mid-January, we need to alert you<br />

to a change to our 2017-18 Instructional Calendar.<br />

As you may know, Katy ISD, along with all Texas school districts, is<br />

required by state law to have 75,600 minutes of instructional time<br />

built into its calendar each year. While the Texas Education Agency<br />

(TEA) granted our district a waiver for missed instructional time<br />

this past fall as a result of Hurricane Harvey related closures, the<br />

District has been informed that waivers will not be provided for<br />

January’s bad weather days.<br />

Unfortunately, our students lost significant instructional time this<br />

year. Monday, February 19 th was currently designated as a bad<br />

weather day and was used to make up instructional time for all<br />

students. Additionally, in order to be in compliance with state law,<br />

the secondary school day will be extended by ten minutes during<br />

the week of May 14 th -18 th , with dismissal being at 2:45 PM each day.<br />

KatyISD recognizes that this may be an inconvenience for some<br />

families and we apologize ahead of time for that. Just as we must<br />

meet the requirements of the law, it is also just as important that<br />

we are in a position to ensure that we can effectively achieve our<br />

mission to provide educational excellence and opportunities that<br />

prepare our students for success in college, career and life. With<br />

that said, having our students in school to grow and learn is of the<br />

utmost importance. As always, your understanding and support is<br />

greatly appreciated.<br />

14 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


CINCO RANCH & SEVEN MEADOWS HIGH SCHOOL<br />

A group photo of members of the Cinco Ranch High School CRyptonite<br />

and Seven Lakes High School RoboSpartans robotics teams and one<br />

of the students and mentors in Australia.<br />

KATY STUDENTS INTRODUCE ROBOTICS TO AUSTRALIA<br />

Teenagers from Cinco Ranch High School CRyptonite and Seven<br />

Lakes High School RoboSpartans robotics teams developed their<br />

leadership, technical and communication skills by introducing<br />

robotics to Onslow, Western Australia. They are part of an outreach<br />

project from Bechtel corporation, which sponsors both robotics<br />

teams, to develop to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math<br />

(STEM) capabilities called Robots Around the World (“RAW”).<br />

Onslow is a remote town on the west coast of Australia where Bechtel<br />

is working on Chevron’s Wheatstone LNG project. According to student<br />

project leader Satvik Bacchu from CRyptonite, “Because Onslow is<br />

so small, formal education for students stops at about 8th grade. To<br />

continue their education, students must go to boarding schools or be<br />

homeschooled. Our goal is to provide robotics education to Onslow students<br />

to enter robotics competitions and develop a passion for STEM.”<br />

Bechtel provided both robotics kits to the Onslow students and technology<br />

for remote video conferencing. CRyptonite and RoboSpartans<br />

students created a curriculum, videos and a robot game to help Onslow<br />

students learn at their own pace and have fun programming and running<br />

their robots. The team met on Saturday evenings (Katy time) to<br />

accommodate the time difference and were supported by many Bechtel<br />

employees, including, Tracy Johnson (RoboSpartans mentor) as well as<br />

Nicole Connolly, Erin Glancy and Jeffery Hunter (located in Australia).<br />

“We work as unto<br />

the Lord”<br />

RESIDENTIAL &<br />

COMMERCIAL<br />

Geyer roofinG<br />

Specializing in<br />

Re-Roofing<br />

Ron Geyer<br />

713-462-3898<br />

REMODELING<br />

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Windows / Doors • Floors • Hardi Siding<br />

• Rooms Additions • Complete Renovations • Patio Covers<br />

Rob Geyer<br />

281-477-3456<br />

The students learned a lot about project management by planning<br />

and leading this education program. They also learned to work with<br />

communications issues on the international level and made new friends<br />

in the process.<br />

TOMPKINS HIGH SCHOOL<br />

FFA SPRING FUNDRAISER<br />

The Cow Patty Classic 5K/10K run is being hosted by the Tompkins<br />

Booster Club to support the Tompkins FFA Chapter on Saturday,<br />

April 14 th . Participants and Sponsors can sign up using link:<br />

https://thedriven.net/cowpatty.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

15


Dated<br />

Community<br />

Events<br />

SPRING BRANCH AFRICAN VIOLET CLUB<br />

39 TH ANNUAL SPRING SHOW AND SALE<br />

Judson Robinson Jr. Community Center<br />

2020 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77004<br />

Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 3, <strong>2018</strong>: Show 1-5 PM, Sale 9 AM-5 PM<br />

Sunday, <strong>March</strong> 4, <strong>2018</strong>: Show & Sale, 10 AM-3 PM<br />

Free Admission<br />

Violets of all types such as standards, miniatures, semi-miniatures<br />

and trailers will be available. Other Gesneriads such as Episcias<br />

and Streps and supplies such as potting soil, pots and fertilizers<br />

will also be featured. Club members will be available to answer<br />

general questions on growing African Violets. Free parking available<br />

at Judson Robinson Jr. Community Center. For further information,<br />

contact Karla Ross, 281-748-8417, kjwross@yahoo.com.<br />

2 ND ANNUAL KATY TASTE FEST<br />

www.KatyTasteFest.com<br />

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

at Villagio Town Center <strong>March</strong> 24, <strong>2018</strong>, 11 AM-2 PM. The festival<br />

celebrates all things food from some of the best Katy restaurants.<br />

It is a foodies’ paradise with emphasis on food, family and fun. The<br />

festival will focus on celebrating the diversity of the local restaurant<br />

scene with bites from 30 local restaurants, cooking demonstrations,<br />

beer/wine, a large kids zone, live entertainment and a silent auction.<br />

Fun for the whole family! Our inaugural event was a HUGE success<br />

with more than 800 attendees and raised more than $13,000 for our<br />

local non-profit partners. We aim to exceed that number in <strong>2018</strong>!<br />

NEW: This year’s event will feature a VIP Jazz Brunch: This is an<br />

opportunity to discover your new go-to favorites while savoring<br />

comfort foods you’ve loved for years. We have something for everyone<br />

from adults to kids. Katy Taste Fest has partnered with several<br />

local nonprofits that focus on abused, neglected and abandoned<br />

children including Katy Cares, Krause Children’s Center and Armor<br />

of Hope Foundation. Details and ticket information will be available<br />

on www.KatyTasteFest.com.<br />

About Katy Taste Fest: Katy Taste Fest aspires to turn tasters<br />

into diners. The festival explores the city’s diverse dining scene<br />

by sampling tastes from local restaurants. Attendees can enjoy<br />

cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, a silent auction and<br />

family-friendly activities for food lovers of all ages. Katy Taste Fest<br />

supports several local charities that focus on vulnerable children,<br />

including Katy Cares, ZOE, Krause Children’s Center, Helping Kids<br />

Ministry and Armor of Hope Foundation.<br />

FREE SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP<br />

Tuesday, <strong>March</strong> 20, <strong>2018</strong><br />

Memorial Parkway Community Center,<br />

21600 Cimarron Parkway in Katy<br />

Are you a small business owner who wonders if you are getting the<br />

most and best benefits for your dollar? Learn about all options. No<br />

attendance taken. No selling. No followups. Education only!<br />

CALL FOR ARTISTS: BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL<br />

MEMORIAL PARK <strong>2018</strong><br />

Bayou City Art Festival, produced by Art Colony Association, Inc. (ACA),<br />

is inviting artists from around the country to submit applications and<br />

have the opportunity to showcase their art at the nation’s premier<br />

spring outdoor fine art event Friday-Sunday, <strong>March</strong> 23-25, <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

ACA produces Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park in the spring and<br />

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

ACA has provided a venue for over 20,000 artists to showcase their<br />

16 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


When it needs more than a band-aid,<br />

Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room?<br />

Did you know a visit to the ER can cost as much as five times<br />

more than a visit to Excel Urgent Care, for the same problem?<br />

$$<br />

$$<br />

$<br />

$ - $$<br />

$$<br />

$$<br />

VS.<br />

Sprains<br />

Minor Lacerations<br />

Cold, Flu, Fever<br />

Occupational Medicine<br />

Lab & Drug Screen (on site)<br />

X-Ray<br />

Emergency<br />

Room<br />

$$$$<br />

$$$$<br />

$$$$<br />

$$$$<br />

$$$$<br />

$$$$<br />

855-EXCEL-UC<br />

www.excelurgentcare.com<br />

Serving Cypress, Missouri City & Katy Areas<br />

Open Everyday 9am - 9pm No appointment needed.<br />

Save time and money at...<br />

19450 Katy Freeway<br />

Houston, TX 77094<br />

281-829-9900<br />

work to thousands of art lovers from all over the world. Patrons have<br />

the opportunity to personally meet the artist, view original works and<br />

purchase world class art. The festival benefits local non-profits and<br />

features music, food, beverages, entertainment, a Children’s Creative<br />

Zone and much more for people of all ages to come and enjoy the city<br />

and the festival.<br />

Twice a year, over 1,000 qualified applicants from 19 different disciples<br />

submit their applications to be reviewed by the ACA jurors. For each<br />

festival, a new juror panel is invited and consists of artists, collectors<br />

and industry professionals. The panel of five to seven jurors are selected<br />

based on their specific interests, professional knowledge and<br />

background with the festival. Only 300 artists will be selected to exhibit<br />

at the <strong>2018</strong> Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park. Cash Prizes are<br />

awarded for “Best in Show,” second and third, as selected by on-site<br />

judges. Ribbons are awarded for “Best Booth” and all winners receive<br />

jury exempt status for two years as well as priority booth placement.<br />

Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information,<br />

please visit www.artcolonyassociation.org. For updates on<br />

social media, follow the official event hashtags #HouArtFest and #BCAF,<br />

like the Facebook page or follow on Twitter and Instagram.<br />

NATURE PROGRAMS FOR PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN<br />

SATURDAYS IN NATURE<br />

This program is held on the fourth Saturday of each month at the<br />

Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary, held between 1 and 4 PM. A guided<br />

nature walk will begin at 2 PM. No reservations required. Donations are<br />

encouraged. This is a “whole family” program; parents or other adult<br />

guardians should participate with their children. Park in the Memorial<br />

Drive United Methodist Church parking lot at 12955 Memorial Drive,<br />

enter the nature sanctuary through the marked gate and proceed on<br />

the path to the log cabin. Upcoming programs include <strong>March</strong>: Wildflowers<br />

- Craft: Seed Starters. April: Bird Watching - Craft: TP Binoculars.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

The Titmouse Club<br />

The Titmouse Club is a nature program for children ages 2 ½ to 5<br />

sponsored by the Houston Audubon Docent Guild. The program is<br />

offered every Tuesday and Wednesday morning, 10 to 11 AM, from<br />

mid-September until mid-May at the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary,<br />

440 Wilchester Boulevard. Each week features a different nature theme<br />

and may include nature talks, stories, hands-on activities and walks in<br />

the woods. For more information, go to www.houstonaudubon.org and<br />

look under Audubon Docents. The cost is $5 per child per session or a<br />

5-session card can be purchased for $20. The child must be accompanied<br />

by an adult during the program. Park in the Memorial Drive United<br />

Methodist Church parking lot at 12955 Memorial Drive, enter the nature<br />

sanctuary through the marked gate and proceed on the path to the log<br />

cabin. Upcoming programs include:<br />

<strong>March</strong> 6 th & 7 th : Gardening for Kids<br />

<strong>March</strong> 13 th & 14 th : (no mtg. - Spring Break Camp)<br />

<strong>March</strong> 20 th & 21 st : Butterflies & Moths<br />

<strong>March</strong> 27 th & 28 th : Animal Babies<br />

April 3 rd & 4 th : Wildflower Power<br />

April 10 th & 11 th : Dragonflies<br />

April 17 th & 18 th : Turtles<br />

April 24 th & 25 th : Fishing Fun<br />

After School Nature Explorers Club<br />

Nature Explorers Club is designed for school-age children (ages 6-10,<br />

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

we will explore a different ecology topic, focusing on our own native<br />

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

hike, dip-net for fish and tadpoles in the ponds and get to know the plants<br />

and animals of the Bayou City! Fee/reservations are required. Reserve<br />

your child’s spot at www.houstonaudubon.org. For more information<br />

contact Bethany Foshee, Docent Programs Coordinator, bfoshee@<br />

houstonaudubon.org or 713-932-1639. Upcoming programs include:<br />

<strong>March</strong> 22 nd : Baby Animals<br />

April 19 th : Snakes Alive!<br />

17


Forever Landscape<br />

• Tree Trimming<br />

• Tree Removal<br />

• Tree Fertilizer<br />

• Stump Grinding<br />

• Trim Bushes<br />

• Flower Bed Design<br />

• Planting, Renovation<br />

• Stone Border<br />

• Pavers<br />

Call Everth<br />

281-891-0370<br />

Visit us at<br />

• Flat Stones<br />

• Drain System<br />

• Garden Soil, Top Soil<br />

• Grass Installation<br />

• Lawn Aeration<br />

• Lawn Dethatcher<br />

• Mulch<br />

• Clean Gutters<br />

• Wood Fence<br />

Free<br />

Estimates<br />

www.foreverlandscape.com<br />

Fully insured for your protection.<br />

COBALT CUSTOM POOLS, LLC<br />

832-758-0331<br />

www.cobaltcustompools.com<br />

• Custom Pools/Spas<br />

• Service/Repairs/Remodels<br />

• Monthly Pool Service<br />

• Landscape Lighting<br />

• Mosquito Misting Systems<br />

• Firepits/Outdoor Kitchens<br />

• Arbors/Covered Patios<br />

• Fully Insured<br />

Call us for a<br />

FREE Consultation!<br />

Amelia Norabuena<br />

MAID SERVICES<br />

281-912-5036<br />

OWL PROWLS<br />

Houston Audubon Docent Guild sponsors 4 owl prowls for the<br />

2017-18 season. Owl prowls begin with a lively program on owls<br />

including an opportunity to meet live, rehabilitated owls followed<br />

by a walk in the woods in search of wild owls. For more information,<br />

to reserve and pay online go to www.houstonaudubon.org. Owl<br />

Prowl dates - <strong>March</strong> 9, <strong>2018</strong>. Owl Prowls start at 7 PM, end at 9 PM<br />

and begin in the log cabin at the Edith L Moore Nature Sanctuary.<br />

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

must be at least 6 years of age and there must be at least one adult<br />

present for each two children. Dress for walking in the woods and<br />

the weather. Please park in the Memorial Drive United Methodist<br />

Church west parking lot at 12955 Memorial Drive or the Sanctuary’s<br />

small lot at 440 Wilchester. Pre-registration is required and there is<br />

a maximum number of participants for each prowl.<br />

LOCAL CHARITIES HOST 2 ND ANNUAL KATY COLOR RUN<br />

The 2 nd annual Katy Color Run will be held Saturday, April 7 th at<br />

Kingsland Baptist Church. The color-filled run will consist of a 5K<br />

run and a 1K kids’ dash. The community event will also feature<br />

entertainment, food trucks and vendors and a kids’ fun zone.<br />

Proceeds from the run will benefit local nonprofit organizations:<br />

Christ Clinic, Clothed by Faith, Compassion Katy, Hope Impacts<br />

and Katy Christian Ministries. The Ballard Foundation is the title<br />

sponsor of the event.<br />

The benefiting nonprofits provided thousands of people with medical,<br />

food, clothing and shelter needs after Hurricane Harvey. Christ<br />

Clinic offers medical care to uninsured and underinsured patients.<br />

Clothed by Faith gives gently used clothing to thousands of Katy<br />

area residents in need. Compassion Katy’s connects churches,<br />

businesses and nonprofits to provide solutions to meet the needs<br />

of the community. Hope Impacts imparts hope to homeless and<br />

under resourced people in the Katy area by connecting them to<br />

services and resources. Katy Christian Ministries offers food and<br />

emergency financial assistance to those in need and also offers<br />

many other resources to the community including a domestic abuse<br />

center and a resale store.<br />

For more information and to register to run please visit:<br />

https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/Katy/KatyColorRun5K.<br />

3 RD ANNUAL SPORTING<br />

CLAYS TOURNAMENT<br />

BENEFITING TAYLOR HS FFA<br />

Saturday, April 14, <strong>2018</strong><br />

Held at the American Shooting Center,<br />

16500 Westheimer Pkwy. This event<br />

helps raise money to help send our FFA<br />

students to district, state and national<br />

Leadership and Career Development<br />

competitions, the Texas FFA State Convention as well as providing<br />

educational tools for our FFA teachers. In the past, teams of four<br />

from our school, family teams, local business teams and community<br />

teams have signed up for this competition. We also provide online<br />

registration and payment options for this event. For more information,<br />

please visit www.taylorffaclaytournament.com.<br />

CAF HOUSTON WING’S WARBIRD WEEKEND<br />

AND OPEN HOUSE<br />

On Saturday and Sunday, April 14 th & 15 th from10 AM until 5 PM,<br />

those big, old airplanes with the mighty round engines will be flying<br />

again as the Commemorative Air Force’s Houston Wing presents<br />

its <strong>2018</strong> Warbird Weekend and Open House at Hangar B-5, West<br />

Houston Airport. Get up close and feel the prop wash and hear the<br />

18 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


noise as radial engines power these historic WWII aircraft. See some<br />

of the old planes your father, grandfather or grandmother learned<br />

to fly for World War II.<br />

Admission is $15 per CAR at the gate or $10 per car if ticket is purchased<br />

in advance online (check our website or facebook page for<br />

details) and earns you a day of aircraft and military vehicle displays,<br />

museum exhibits and fun.<br />

Warbird rides will also be available for purchase.<br />

Food, drinks, gifts and souvenirs<br />

will be available. Come on<br />

out and honor America. The<br />

Commemorative Air Force is a<br />

non-profit national patriotic organization<br />

whose membership<br />

includes people from all backgrounds sharing an interest in aviation<br />

and history. www.houstonwing.org.<br />

Dr. Brad McCary, DVM<br />

www.williamsburg-vets.com<br />

The West Houston Airport is located at 18000 Groschke Rd., 2 miles<br />

north of I-10 and between Hwy. 6 and Barker Cypress, will be the place<br />

to visit on Saturday and Sunday, April 14 th & 15 th from 10 AM until 5 PM.<br />

281-347-0246<br />

1827 N. Mason Rd.<br />

Katy, TX 77449<br />

Mon, Tues, Thurs, & Fri: 7:30AM-6:00PM<br />

Wednesday: 7:30AM-12:00 Noon<br />

Saturday: 8:00AM-12:00 Noon<br />

Sunday: Closed<br />

6 TH ANNUAL “STRIKE OUT” AUTISM <strong>2018</strong><br />

April 29, <strong>2018</strong>, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM<br />

www.hopeforthree.org<br />

An exciting family fun day providing focused on educating and empowering<br />

others about the leading developmental disabiliy in the<br />

United States - autism. 7,500 fans and supporters, Hope For Three,<br />

County Judge Bob Hebert, all 18 City Mayors, 300 volunteers and the<br />

Sugar Land Skeeters, host over 400 family members from the autism<br />

community to a day full of friendship and baseball.<br />

Volunteers “buddy” up with a child prior to the game for play time<br />

on the field or in the playground area. During this time, parents and<br />

caregivers enjoy a social hour in the company of other adults at the<br />

Bud Light Pavilion; a rare occasion for many, a first-time opportunity<br />

for most<br />

A 2-hour buffet with complimentary lunch and soft drinks await the<br />

hosted families in the picnic area 700 volunteers and family members<br />

march around the field for an Autism Awareness Parade before Judge<br />

Hebert and City Mayors join on field to read a Proclamation of support<br />

recognizing April as Autism Awareness Month Then, it’s PLAY BALL!<br />

Sponsors, Mayors and other VIPs enjoy the game from hosted suites,<br />

while volunteers and families cheer on the home team! Numerous<br />

volunteer, sponsorship and underwriting opportunties available.<br />

Call 281-245-0640 to learn more.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

A/C & Heating<br />

TEXAS LICENSE NO. 2487<br />

4<br />

281-898-0965<br />

TACLB52242E<br />

CHECK-UP<br />

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE<br />

"All The Pest Control You'll Ever Need"<br />

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL<br />

QUARTERLY & MONTHLY<br />

MAINTENANCE<br />

• ROACHES • ANTS • FLEAS<br />

• TERMITE CONTROL • LAWN CONTROL<br />

• MOSQUITO CONTROL • MICE & RATS<br />

281-469-8240<br />

www.mcgrathpestcontrol.com<br />

19


MARCH <strong>2018</strong><br />

Through <strong>March</strong> 18th - The Houston Livestock<br />

Show and Rodeo is the world’s largest livestock<br />

Show and rodeo. With more than 33,000 volunteers,<br />

the organization is a Section 501(c)(3) charity that<br />

benefits youth, supports education and facilitates<br />

better agricultural practices through exhibitions<br />

and presentations. Since its beginning in 1932, the<br />

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has committed<br />

nearly $450 million to scholarships, research,<br />

endowments, calf scramble participants, junior<br />

show exhibitors, School Art participants and other<br />

educational programs. The <strong>2018</strong> RODEOHOUSTON<br />

entertainment lineup features a mix of country, rock,<br />

R&B and Spanish pop artists. Several RODEOHOUS-<br />

TON favorites, plus six entertainers new to RODEO-<br />

HOUSTON, will be the first to perform on the new<br />

state-of-the-art RODEOHOUSTON stage in <strong>2018</strong>. For<br />

more information, visit www.rodeohouston.com.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 2nd-<strong>March</strong> 4th - The 83rd Azalea Trail<br />

heralds the beginning of Spring! The Trail kicks off<br />

with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Lazy Lane entrance<br />

of Bayou Bend on Friday, <strong>March</strong> 2nd at 10:30<br />

AM. This year, a ticket to the Trail gives admission<br />

to 6 locations within the River Oaks neighborhood,<br />

including 4 private homes and gardens, Bayou Bend<br />

and Rienzi. A 7th free location, also in River Oaks, is<br />

the River Oaks Garden Club Forum of Civics where<br />

free advice from “Ask the Experts” can be enjoyed<br />

each day. On Saturday at 2 PM, there will be a floral<br />

demonstration with easy to repeat floral tips from<br />

one of our talented Garden Club members! A free<br />

trolley will provide easy access to all 6 locations of<br />

homes, gardens and house museums. For more<br />

information, visit www.riveroaksgc.org.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 3rd - The Houston Area Women’s Center<br />

(HAWC) is proud to kick off our 30th Annual Race<br />

Against Violence presented by Verizon! This<br />

milestone race and family festival will be held on<br />

Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 3, <strong>2018</strong>, and starts at 8 AM at the<br />

AIG Campus at Whole Foods Market-Montrose. The<br />

Race Against Violence is open to timed and untimed<br />

runners and includes a kids’ fun run and family<br />

festival after the race! Register solo or rally your<br />

friends together to start a team to help fundraise to<br />

support survivors of domestic and sexual violence<br />

throughout Houston. Together, we can race towards<br />

a future without violence! For more information,<br />

visit www.houstonrav.org.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 4th - AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc.(AFH)<br />

hosts the 29th Annual AIDS Walk Houston on<br />

Sunday, <strong>March</strong> 4, <strong>2018</strong>, at Sam Houston Park in<br />

Downtown Houston. This signature event is the<br />

HOUSTON AREA EVENTS AND ROAD TRIPS<br />

city’s single greatest response in the fight against<br />

HIV/AIDS. Funds raised help local HIV/AIDS service<br />

organizations provide programs and services to<br />

almost 30,000 Houstonians impacted by the virus.<br />

This year, the annual fundraiser will culminate in a<br />

free outdoor concert featuring live performances<br />

from Houston-based artists. VIP wristbands for<br />

the concert will be available to 1,500 Houstonians<br />

who take a free HIV test before the walk. Please visit<br />

www.AIDSWalkHouston.org for more information.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 10th - Join us for Texas’ largest canoe and<br />

kayak race - the 46th Annual Buffalo Bayou Partnership<br />

Regatta. Paddlers (ages 12 and up) are<br />

encouraged to participate in the 15-mile American<br />

Canoe Association sanctioned race along the scenic<br />

Buffalo Bayou. Whether you are entering competitively<br />

or paddling for pleasure, you won’t want to<br />

miss out on this longstanding Houston tradition!<br />

Those not wanting to paddle can cheer on racers<br />

along the race route or catch the outdoor fun at the<br />

finish line festivities at Sesquicentennial Park. The<br />

Buffalo Bayou Partnership Regatta is rain or shine.<br />

If cancellation does take place due to severe water<br />

or weather conditions, all entry fees will be considered<br />

a tax-deductible donation to Buffalo Bayou<br />

Partnership and used in our efforts to continue<br />

revitalizing the bayou. For more information, visit<br />

www.buffalobayou.org.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 10th - The NOLA Boil Crawfish Festival.<br />

Welcome to a good ol’ Lousiana crawfish boil a<br />

popular seafood dish that is enjoyed throughout the<br />

southern regions. We are bringing together crawfish<br />

enthusiast from all over the world to come celebrate<br />

the “Mud Bug”. “Crawfish season” is what they call<br />

it and is a time of year loved and shared by many<br />

breaking the tails and sucking the heads. We love it!<br />

Come hungry and enjoy a variety of live entertainment,<br />

dj sets, vendors and OF COURSE CRAWFISH.<br />

For more information, visit www.thenolaboil.com.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 17th - 59th Annual Houston St. Patrick’s Parade.<br />

Rain or Shine! Parade starts at the Clock Tower<br />

at MinuteMaid Park on Texas and goes west-bound.<br />

This year’s theme is Houston Strong, Irish Proud.<br />

Join us at Lucky’s Pub for the Awards Ceremony<br />

and After-Party! The Houston St. Patrick’s Parade<br />

has always been a FREE event. The two-hour parade<br />

has historically been one of the largest in the U.S.<br />

and each year includes over 100 entries to delight<br />

the Irish and Irish-at-heart. Our history is a grand<br />

one and if you would like to personally support the<br />

parade and be a part of the year-round socials and<br />

meetings, please become a member of our Irish 100<br />

Club. The Houston St. Patrick’s Parade is presented<br />

by the Houston St. Patrick’s Parade Commission.<br />

For more the parade route or more information,<br />

visit www.hsppc.org.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 18th - Tour de Houston Presented by<br />

Apache Corporation is a fundraising bike ride<br />

that benefits Houston’s Reforestation Program.<br />

The ride will take place Sunday, <strong>March</strong> 18, <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

This annual event offers Houstonians and visitors<br />

a unique way to view the city with bike routes<br />

winding through Houston’s historic neighborhoods,<br />

scenic districts and parks. With three ride<br />

length options, the Tour de Houston is the perfect<br />

event for leisure riders or cycling enthusiasts. In<br />

addition, it is a BP MS 150 recommended training<br />

ride. This event begins and ends in Hermann<br />

Square at City Hall located at 901 Bagby. Riders<br />

and volunteers will enjoy a post-ride party that<br />

includes live music, free food and beverages. For<br />

more information, visit www.houstontx.gov.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 23rd-<strong>March</strong> 25th - It doesn’t matter what<br />

your art style is, you are sure to find something you<br />

like at The Annual Bayou City Art Festival Memorial<br />

Park. This fine, juried art festival transforms the<br />

1.1 - mile trail of the park into a one-of-a-kind outdoor<br />

gallery. In addition to the extensive selection<br />

of art, representing 18 different forms of artistic<br />

media, festival goers can also enjoy international<br />

food and wine, the Green Mountain Energy Creative<br />

Zone offering interactive art activities, daily<br />

outdoor performances and more. The Festival<br />

celebrates the vitality and diversity of Houston<br />

and enriches the city’s arts environment and<br />

reputation. Over the past 40+ years, the Bayou City<br />

Art Festivals have raised more than $2.6 million for<br />

local nonprofit organizations. For more information,<br />

please visit www.bayoucityartfestival.com.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 24th-25th - In Bloom Music Festival. Previously<br />

Free Press Summer Fest, In Bloom Music<br />

Festival will take over Eleanor Tinsley Park for two<br />

days. For lineup by day and tickets, go to<br />

www.inbloomfestival.com.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 26th-April 1st - Houston Open. This PGA<br />

TOUR event, the 10th oldest tour event, is Houston’s<br />

largest and most prestigious golf event<br />

hosting 144 of the world’s best golfers competing<br />

for $6M in prize money. Since 1974, Houston Golf<br />

Association’s volunteers have generated more<br />

than $55.2 million for local worthy causes through<br />

the Shell Houston Open and other golf-related<br />

activities. Over 125,000 spectators will enjoy<br />

tournament week. For more information, visit<br />

www.houstonopen.org.<br />

20 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


BASHANS PAINTING<br />

& HOME REPAIR<br />

• Interior & Exterior Painting<br />

• Wallpaper Removal<br />

• HARDIPLANK ® Installation • Custom Texturing<br />

• Sheetrock Repair<br />

• Pressure Washing<br />

• Cabinet Painting<br />

• Fence Repair/Replacement<br />

• Wood Replacement<br />

• Garage Floor Epoxy<br />

• Interior Carpentry<br />

• Custom Staining<br />

• Crown Molding<br />

• Roofing<br />

• Faux Painting<br />

• Gutter Repair & Replacement<br />

NO No MONEY moNey UP up FRONT froNt<br />

25+ Years Experience • References Available<br />

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL<br />

CommerCial/residential<br />

- FREE Free ESTIMATES- estimates-<br />

BashansPainting@earthlink.net<br />

** FULLY INSURED **<br />

FULLY INSURED<br />

281-347-6702 office<br />

281-731-3383 cell<br />

We accept all major credit cards<br />

THEATER/ARTS<br />

FULSHEAR SIMONTON TEXAS OPRY<br />

Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 3, <strong>2018</strong> 7-10 pm<br />

The Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce<br />

presents the Fulshear Simonton Texas Opry<br />

Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 3, <strong>2018</strong> 7-10 PM at the Churchill<br />

Fulshear High School Theatre located at<br />

9302 Bois D’Arc Ln, Fulshear, TX 77441.<br />

The first Fulshear Simonton Texas Opry was<br />

met with RAVE reviews. So we are doing in<br />

again. Come out and enjoy an evening as we<br />

celebrate Texas Independence Day filled with<br />

music, fun and entertainment for the entire<br />

family. Come hear great music from Brian<br />

Black, Pauline Reese, Kevin Black, Freddie<br />

Pate, Moses Rangel, Tori Vourganas and the<br />

comedic stylings of Larry “Booger Lee” Etheridge.<br />

This event will be held in the comfort of<br />

the state of the art Churchill Fulshear High<br />

School Theatre.<br />

For more information about our meetings<br />

and events, please visit The Fulshear Area<br />

Chamber of Commerce website at: www.<br />

FulshearAreaChamber.com. If you’d like more<br />

information, please contact Amy Norvell at<br />

anorvell@fulshear-areachamber.com or call<br />

832-600-3221.<br />

STAGEWORKS THEATRE<br />

Stageworks Theatre is located at 10760<br />

Grant Road, Houston, Texas 77070. Website:<br />

www.stageworkshouston.org.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

KATY VISUAL & PERFORMING<br />

ARTS CENTER (KVPAC)<br />

www.kvpac.org<br />

2501 S Mason Rd., Suite 290, Katy, TX 77450<br />

Season Tickets, including all new FLEX Packages,<br />

are on-sale now to lock-in the best price<br />

and choice seat. Pre-Sale Show Tickets are $15<br />

Adults and $12 Seniors.<br />

Tickets increase by $3 at the door. Group rates<br />

are available at www.kvpac.org or in person.<br />

For Katy audience members who seek an<br />

evening at the theater, they can look to Encore<br />

Players as a source to enjoy the theater in their<br />

own home town without the long commute<br />

or high cost involved with heading to one of<br />

downtown Houston’s theaters. Katy Visual &<br />

Performing Arts Center (KVPAC) is a non-profit<br />

arts education organization helping artists<br />

find their light since 2001.<br />

THE HOUSTON CHORAL SOCIETY<br />

“A NIGHT ON BROADWAY”<br />

The treasured<br />

music<br />

and lyrics<br />

of some<br />

of Broadw<br />

a y ’ s<br />

greatest<br />

songs are<br />

presented<br />

in the<br />

Houston<br />

Choral Society’s<br />

A<br />

Night on Broadway concert Saturday, <strong>March</strong><br />

10, <strong>2018</strong> at 7:30 PM, at The Foundry Church.<br />

Under the direction of Dr. Kevin M. Klotz, HCS<br />

Artistic Director, this concert features brilliant<br />

arrangements of Broadway classics.<br />

Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors/<br />

students/veterans and $10 for children ages<br />

5 and younger. Group rates are available.<br />

Tickets are available online at www.houstonchoral.org.<br />

Tickets may also be purchased<br />

at the door. The Foundry Church is one of<br />

the premiere choral venues in Houston with<br />

extraordinary acoustics. It is located in northwest<br />

Houston at 8350 Jones Road, Houston,<br />

TX 77065 with easy access from Highway 290.<br />

For more information, please visit the HCS<br />

website at www.houstonchoral.org.<br />

MILDRED’S UMBRELLA THEATER CO.<br />

MAINSTAGE SEASON<br />

1824 Spring Street #101, Houston TX 77007<br />

DARK MATTER By: Don Nigro<br />

<strong>March</strong> 29 th -31 st , April 5 th -7 th<br />

& April 12 th -14 th at 8 PM<br />

Special matinee: April 8 th at 3 PM<br />

Pay-What-You-Can night: April 9 th at 8 PM<br />

After this production, Mildred’s Umbrella Theater<br />

Company (MU) will be saying goodbye to<br />

their longtime home in Spring Street Studios<br />

and moving to Montrose, where The Classical<br />

Theatre Company has generously provided the<br />

company a new home in their Chelsea Market<br />

performance space. In addition to the move,<br />

MU will be producing a shorter season of two<br />

mainstage plays plus the annual Museum of<br />

Dysfunction short play festival in order to accommodate<br />

a greater focus on developing programs<br />

that engage the community in different ways.<br />

MORE INFO/RESERVATIONS: www.mildredsumbrella.com,<br />

info@mildredsumbrella.com<br />

or 832-463-0409.<br />

21


The seniors are: Holly Ayers, Nicole Bourgeois, Sydney Bryant, Lillian Costley, Maddie Cotton, Rachel Courtney, Kate D’Agostino,<br />

Brooke Dumas, Katherine Everhard, Kaitlyn Sheroke, Hannah Garcia, Victoria Gimenez, Layla Gutierrez, Madison Hanning,<br />

Kiersten Henley, Kayla Huisman, Kelsey Joe, Vivian Lipp, Dori Mallinger, Makenna Munger, Lauren Plummer, Sophia Schimmenti,<br />

Kaylee Scott, Emma Struble and Tori Volan.<br />

NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE, INC., STAR CHAPTER HONORS<br />

TWENTY-FIVE SENIORS<br />

On Sunday, February 18, <strong>2018</strong>, National Charity League, Inc., Star Chapter<br />

(NCL, Inc.) honored the Senior Class of <strong>2018</strong> at the Chapter’s annual<br />

Senior Recognition Ceremony. This formal event took place at the Sugar<br />

Land Marriott Town Square at 6:30 PM. The evening included recognition<br />

of each of these 25 graduating seniors for their accomplishments and<br />

contributions to the community, as well as dinner and dancing with<br />

family and friends in attendance.<br />

Over the last six years, these young ladies, alongside their mothers, have<br />

contributed over 11,191 volunteer hours at 30 local charities throughout<br />

the community. The Class of <strong>2018</strong> volunteered at The Westview School,<br />

Katy Visual and Performing Arts Center (KVPAC), Neighborhood Kidz<br />

Club, Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP), Interfaith Ministries (Meals on<br />

Wheels), The Ballard House, Fulshear Library, Katy Christian Ministries,<br />

Fort Bend Women’s Center, Oakmont Nursing Home, The Krause Center,<br />

The Monty Ballard YMCA and Willow River Farms, to name a few.<br />

In addition to serving their community through volunteering, these young<br />

ladies were also honing leadership skills and developing cultural awareness<br />

by planning and attending educational meetings, chapter-wide<br />

events, socials, class retreats and cultural events that included the ballet,<br />

opera and theatre.<br />

“The Class of <strong>2018</strong> has completed a 6-year program designed to foster the<br />

mother-daughter relationship through community service, leadership<br />

development and cultural experiences,” said Tina Costley, NCL, Inc.,<br />

Star Chapter President, “we are very proud of them and who they have<br />

become. Whatever they choose to do, we know that they will be prepared<br />

to serve, lead and be successful.” The Star Chapter is very proud of these<br />

accomplished young ladies and wishes each of them great success in<br />

their future endeavors.<br />

KATY COMMUNITY GIVING CIRCLE<br />

Creating a circle of giving and a bigger impact as we grow! A<br />

giving circle is a group of people who commit to making a financial<br />

contribution to one charitable fund. Katy Community<br />

Giving Circle members each donate $10 per month to the fund.<br />

Joining is easy and there is no other obligation to volunteer time<br />

or attend gatherings. Twice a year the group nominates and<br />

chooses an organization to present a grant. Since its beginning<br />

in 2015, almost 20 different charitable organizations have been<br />

nominated to receive a grant.<br />

As of December 2017, the circle has given grants to 4 local 501(c)3<br />

organizations totaling over $7,300. It is truly amazing what $10<br />

can do! Our grant giving has enabled a family afford therapy for<br />

their autistic child, counseling for an abused child for an entire<br />

year, fueled a van delivering food to those in need and financial<br />

assistance to a family adopting a child.<br />

Grant presentation to Gift of Adoption-Texas Chapter<br />

The circles mission was to have a bigger impact on these other<br />

amazing organizations, however, our members are quickly<br />

learning those organizations are having a big impact on them.<br />

Please visit our Facebook page for more information or to join us!<br />

www.facebook.com/katycommunitygivingcircle<br />

22 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


waters receded, helped purchase building materials and participated<br />

in the repairs. We want our unfortunate neighbors to know that we<br />

are here to help long after the disaster passes for as long as they need<br />

us. As participants in Fort Bend Recovers and in collaboration with<br />

partners across our Fulshear-Simonton community, the Rotary Club<br />

of Brazos River continues to help folks affected by Hurricane Harvey<br />

and its floodwaters.<br />

Although the disaster struck in late August 2017, the recovery and<br />

rebuild process will take many, many more months and our Club intends<br />

to continue serving through this long haul. Stay informed about<br />

the needs of our neighbors as they rebuild their lives and please help<br />

through your gifts of treasure and/or ability. Email us @ BrazosRiver-<br />

Rotary@gmail.com if you’d like to help or have questions. Thank you!<br />

In October, the club donated funds to the Fulshear-Simonton Fire<br />

Department to purchase six hydraulic rescue struts. These hydraulic<br />

rescue tools are used by emergency rescue personnel in vehicle extrication<br />

of crash victims, as well as other rescues from small spaces.<br />

In November, our Rotary Club partnered with the Fulshear-Simonton<br />

Lions Club and the Honor Our Veterans Committee to offer a heartfelt<br />

thanks to the more than 120 folks from across our community who took<br />

part in the Honor Our Veterans Breakfast. Veterans from all services:<br />

Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard were present.<br />

VFW POST 9182<br />

Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary Post 9182 presented Ms. Marla<br />

Garcia, Manager of James Coney Island, Mason Road and Mr. Arturo<br />

Ogaz, Multi Store Manager, James Coney Island the November/<br />

December Americanism Award for their willingness to promote Patriotism<br />

and Americanism by showing pride in flying the American<br />

Flag continuously. This award will be awarded monthly to a small<br />

business in the Katy area that promotes Patriotism and Americanism<br />

by flying the American Flag.<br />

ROTARY CLUB OF BRAZOS RIVER<br />

SERVICE ABOVE SELF<br />

The Rotary Club of Brazos River is a community service organization<br />

whose membership represents the area from West Katy to Simonton,<br />

including Fulshear and Weston Lakes. The Club ended a busy 2017<br />

with a list of impressive accomplishments. In the wake of Hurricane<br />

Harvey, which brought destructive flooding to many homes in our<br />

neighborhoods, club members volunteered to clean up after flood<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

In December, learning that there were families in our community who<br />

were not going to have a Christmas because of Harvey’s continuing<br />

effect, Club members stepped in and created an Adopt-A-Family for<br />

Christmas project.<br />

Additionally, members of the club volunteer at the monthly Family<br />

Hope Food Fair. Hundreds of families come on the second Saturday<br />

of each month to receive food and other items that are available.<br />

23


Library News<br />

MAUD MARKS LIBRARY<br />

1815 Westgreen Blvd., Katy, TX 77450, 281-492-8592<br />

LIBRARY HOURS - Mon. 1 PM - 9 PM, Tues. 10 AM - 9 PM,<br />

Wed. 10 AM - 6 PM, Thurs. 10 AM - 6 PM, Fri. 1 PM - 6 PM,<br />

Sat. 10 AM - 5 PM, Sun. closed.<br />

To register online for any of the programs at the library’s website<br />

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

Participants may also register by calling or by visiting the library.<br />

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

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

SPECIAL EVENTS<br />

• BOOK SALE - The Friends of the Maud Marks Library will hold their<br />

next book sale on Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 24 th at 10 AM until 4 PM. There is a<br />

large selection of hardback fiction and nonfiction, as well as children’s<br />

books and paperbacks. All proceeds will benefit the library.<br />

• FREE FAMILY FILMS - Bring the whole family out to our family<br />

film festival this Spring Break. The week school is out, on Monday,<br />

Wednesday and Thursday, at 3 PM we will be showing a different<br />

mystery film complete with popcorn. On <strong>March</strong> 12 th , neighboring<br />

gardens are at war with each other until 2 gnomes fall in love. Then<br />

on <strong>March</strong> 14 th , Giselle is sent to New York city by an evil queen. Finally,<br />

on <strong>March</strong> 15 th , Rocky, a smooth-talking rooster, teaches other fowl<br />

that they really can fly. Unfortunately, we cannot print the titles here,<br />

but call the library or stop by for a complete list.<br />

• VOLUNTEER AT THE LIBRARY - Volunteer opportunities abound at<br />

the library. Volunteers are needed to help shelve, count patrons and<br />

more. We will be holding our next volunteer orientation on Thursday,<br />

<strong>March</strong> 1 st at 5 PM. Students should be in high school and must be able<br />

to commit to two hours a week. If you would like to help in any way,<br />

please contact Elizabeth Herndon at 281-492-8592.<br />

• TEENMAKERS - Teens & tweens in 6 th grade and up are invited to<br />

come MAKE something at the library. This will be a monthly program,<br />

which will include robotics, science experiments, art & crafts and<br />

more! This month, on Thursday, <strong>March</strong> 1 st at 3:30, we will be extracting<br />

fruit DNA. This is a ticketed program. Tickets will be available 30<br />

minutes prior to the program. Come have fun and MAKE something!<br />

• TEEN TECH WEEK - You ready to do some programming? Join us on<br />

Thursday, <strong>March</strong> 8 th at 3:30 PM during Teen Tech Week when we learn<br />

Scratch programming. Seating is extremely limited for this program.<br />

• CHESS WARS - Teens and tweens are invited to join us for Chess Wars!<br />

You played during the summer, now play during the school year! Join<br />

us Tuesdays, <strong>March</strong> 20 th & 27 th at 4:45 PM as we battle it out on the<br />

chessboard. Come learn basic strategies and techniques to up your<br />

chess game so you too can play “out of this world.”<br />

• TEEN BOOK CLUB - We have started a teen book club! Teens are<br />

invited to join us on Thursday, <strong>March</strong> 22 nd at 4:30 PM as we discuss<br />

the book Flame in the Mist by Renee Ahdieh. If you are interested in<br />

joining us, extra copies of the book are available at the checkout desk.<br />

• FREE TAX ASSISTANCE - Every Monday and Friday through April<br />

17 th , AARP will be offering free tax assistance to elderly and low-income<br />

individuals. AARP assistance runs from 10 AM to 2 PM.<br />

• YOGA DEMONSTRATION - You asked for it, you got it! The library<br />

hosts classes twice a month. Yoga can be a very relaxing and centering<br />

exercise program. Join us on Saturdays, <strong>March</strong> 3 rd at 10 AM and <strong>March</strong><br />

17 th at 3 PM, as we learn about the benefits and basic how-to of yoga.<br />

Join us as we exercise our minds and bodies. Registration required.<br />

• DIY CRAFTS: FELT FLOWER BARRETTES - Ready for that ultimate<br />

hair accessory? Join us on Tuesday, <strong>March</strong> 13 th at 2 PM as we make<br />

felt flower hair barrettes. Seating for this is extremely limited.<br />

• KATY MAKERSPACE - Did you know that the Katy area has its very own<br />

MakerSpace? We’ll be learning all about this special place for creators<br />

and inventors at the library on Tuesday, <strong>March</strong> 13 th at 7 PM. Harry<br />

Krueger will be here to give us an introduction to Katy MakerSpace and<br />

all you can do there. Makers of all ages and disciplines are encouraged<br />

to join us as we learn everything our new MakerSpace has to offer.<br />

• RETIREMENT TIPS - Senior citizens and their family members are<br />

invited to join us for a new series at the library. Every 3 rd Friday of<br />

the month, experts will be here to discuss various topics pertinent to<br />

senior living. On <strong>March</strong> 16 th at 3 PM, we will be discussing retirement<br />

tips. Learn tips and tricks to ensure a financially secure and fun retirement.<br />

Come discover what kind of life is best for you or your loved one.<br />

• GREEN THUMB GARDENING - Master Gardeners of Harris County will<br />

once again be bringing their Green Thumb series once a month where<br />

they will discuss various topics unique to gardening in the Houston<br />

area. This month, on <strong>March</strong> 17 th at 10:30 AM, learn all about herbs.<br />

Seating is extremely limited for this class.<br />

• S.C.O.R.E. - The library likes supporting our local businesses. This<br />

month, on Saturday, <strong>March</strong> 17 th at 1 PM, S.C.O.R.E. will be here to<br />

present “Funding for Small Business.” Come learn the best techniques<br />

and practices to get the money you need to help your business succeed.<br />

• TIMELESS TRAVELERS: INDEPENDENCE DAY AT WASHING-<br />

TON-ON-THE-BRAZOS - Seniors 55+ are invited to join the library’s<br />

Timeless Travelers program for a FREE trip to the Washington on the<br />

Brazos for their Independence Day Celebration, courtesy of the Friends<br />

of Maud Marks Library and Precinct Three Transportation. Saturday,<br />

<strong>March</strong> 3 rd at 9 AM, the bus departs from the library for a fun day in<br />

Washington-On the Brazos as we listen to music, meet with reenactors<br />

and more!. Seating is extremely limited. Registration required.<br />

• COLOR ME RELAXED - What is the newest way for adults to relax and<br />

have a good time? Coloring! The library now has an adult coloring<br />

hour on the 4 th Tuesday of every month. Join us as we color, chat,<br />

have a snack and listen to relaxing music. We will provide plenty of<br />

pages for coloring and colored pencils, although, you are more than<br />

welcome to bring your own.<br />

24 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


Family Owned<br />

& Operated<br />

Any Repair<br />

with this ad<br />

Cannot be combined<br />

with any other offer.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

Over 25 years<br />

of experience<br />

• Toilets • Re-pipes • Remodels • Pipe Leaks • Water Heaters • Drain Services<br />

• Fixture Replacement • Gas Tests & Gas Lines • Sewer Camera Inspections<br />

• Sewer Repair & Replacement • Water lines & Water Main Yard Leaks • and much more<br />

www.PolsgrovePlumbing.com<br />

J. Russ Polsgrove RMPL#38482 281-802-5233<br />

• BOOK DISCUSSION CLUBS - The Library hosts book clubs that meet<br />

monthly. The Afternoon Book Club meets on the second Thursday of<br />

the month at 1 PM.<br />

• JUST DESSERTS MYSTERY BOOK CLUB - Meetings held the third<br />

Wednesday of the month at 2 PM. You are encouraged to bring your<br />

favorite dessert to eat while we discuss whether our villains get their<br />

just desserts.<br />

• COMPUTER CLASSES - The library offers a variety of computer classes<br />

each month. You must know how to use a mouse and a keyboard.<br />

Seating for this is extremely limited. Registration is required. To see<br />

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

“Events Calendar” and select “Maud Marks.”<br />

CHILDREN<br />

• SUNSET STORYTIME - Bring the entire family out to our new bedtime<br />

storytime. This new storytime will meet on Tuesday, <strong>March</strong> 20 th at<br />

6:30 PM. We will have stories, songs and rhymes for the whole family.<br />

Children are welcome to wear their pajamas.<br />

• INFANT STORYTIME - This program will meet each Tuesday morning<br />

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

ages 0 to 12 months and their caregivers. Each session will last about<br />

20 minutes, featuring nursery rhymes, songs and finger plays. There will<br />

be NO Infant time on Tuesday, <strong>March</strong> 6 th due to the election.<br />

• STORYTIME - Storytime for preschool-aged children is held each<br />

Wednesday at 10:15 AM. Stories, fingerplays and songs are featured.<br />

This is ideal for children ages 3 to 5, but all children and their caregivers<br />

are welcome.<br />

• PRESCHOOL EXPLORERS - Is your preschooler ready to explore the<br />

world? Children ages 2 ½ to 5 are invited to come on Wednesdays at<br />

11:15 AM as we learn about the world. There will be plenty of stations<br />

for science and sensory exploration.<br />

• TOTALLY TODDLER STORYTIME - Toddlers, ages 18 to 36 months,<br />

are invited to participate in our Totally Toddler Storytime, which will<br />

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

for Toddler Storytime. Tickets are given to the first 30 toddlers the day<br />

of the event.<br />

• WEDNESDAY WONDERS - Come to the library and let imaginations<br />

soar as you explore the world around you with crafts and activities. On<br />

Wednesdays at 4:45 PM, the library will host Wednesday Wonders for<br />

ages 6-11. These programs normally last about one hour. All necessary<br />

materials are provided. This is a ticketed program. Tickets are available<br />

½ hour prior to the program.<br />

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

LOU'S PAINTING, Ltd.<br />

• Interior - Exterior<br />

• Power Washing<br />

• Sheetrock & Texture<br />

• HardiPlank ® Replacement<br />

• Minor Repairs<br />

Free Estimates<br />

Your home is an expensive investment!<br />

Painting beautifies & preserves that<br />

investment!<br />

281-492-2643<br />

Mike McKay<br />

"Doing business from the same location since 1978"<br />

KATY BRANCH LIBRARY<br />

5414 Franz Road, Katy, TX 77493, 281-391-3509<br />

Hours of Operation: Monday & Tuesday 10 AM - 7 PM, Wednesday 1<br />

PM - 8 PM, Thursday 10 AM - 6 PM, Friday 1 PM - 6 PM, Saturday 10<br />

AM - 5 PM, Sunday CLOSED. Join online at www.hcpl.net or come by<br />

in person and we’ll help you sign up!<br />

MONTHLY PROGRAMS<br />

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

of each month, 6 PM. Every month, a group of Spanish speaking<br />

adults get together to discuss a chosen book. Les invitamos a que todos<br />

los meses se reuna con nosotros para conversar sobre un libro. Lláme<br />

para más información.<br />

• SUPERACION PERSONAL - Second Wednesday of every month, 6<br />

PM. The Katy Branch Library hosts motivational discussions in Spanish.<br />

• SPANISH COMPUTER CLASS/CLASE DE LA COMPUTADORA - Every<br />

Friday, 4:30 PM. Basic computer classes taught in Spanish.<br />

• ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES - The Katy Library offers an array of<br />

computer classes in English - please call for more information.<br />

• MANGO ESL CLASS - Every Friday, 3:30 PM. Learn English with a<br />

group going through Mango Languages, an online computer program.<br />

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

other gardeners in the area to learn new ways to grow. Bring your leftover<br />

seeds and exchange them for new seeds to try.<br />

WEEKLY PROGRAMS<br />

• GENEALOGY SQUAD - Every Monday, 2 PM. Bring your lunch and join<br />

us for an informal genealogy get-together. We’ll have computers, Ancestry.com<br />

and other genealogists to help each other with our searches.<br />

• KNOTTY & NICE CLUB - Every Wednesday, 1 PM. The Knotty & Nice<br />

Club is the place for you if you want to learn new needlework techniques,<br />

teach someone else or just hang out with other crafters. Come<br />

& join the club!<br />

CHILDREN<br />

Mondays, 10:15 AM - Baby Bounce<br />

Tuesdays, 10:15 AM and 11 AM - Toddler Time<br />

Thursdays, 10:15 AM and 11 AM - Preschool Storytime<br />

EXPERT TREE SERVICES<br />

LANDSCAPE DESIGNS<br />

• Tree Trimming<br />

• Stump Removal<br />

• Hazardous Removals<br />

• Fertilizing<br />

• Debris / Trash Removal<br />

Please call for<br />

more details about<br />

FREE STUMP GRINDING<br />

with Tree Removal<br />

• Bonded & Insured<br />

• Commercial &<br />

Residential<br />

• Free Estimates<br />

• And Much More!<br />

832-704-9936<br />

OFFICE 832-585-4794<br />

QUALITY TREE SERVICE<br />

25


Spring<br />

Sports<br />

SPRING SOCCER SIGN UPS - KATY/<br />

FULSHEAR/WEST HOUSTON/SPRING<br />

BRANCH/WESTPARK BELTWAY<br />

Registration - Now Open!<br />

Registration for Fun, Fair, Positive Soccer<br />

(FFPS) is open for boys and girls ages 4 to 18<br />

for the SPRING Season. Games start on April<br />

7, <strong>2018</strong>. FFPS is a non-profit youth soccer program<br />

dedicated to providing a positive youth<br />

sports experience for all children. Founded<br />

in 1986 in Katy, Texas, FFPS has grown to 22<br />

leagues and 16,000 players throughout the<br />

Greater Houston area. FFPS offers children a<br />

fun and fair experience, including one practice<br />

per week, a full uniform and trophy for every<br />

player, equal playing time and play every position,<br />

co-ed/balanced teams, positive coaching<br />

and more. No tryouts are required.<br />

Online Registration schedule and fees<br />

(sign up early and save):<br />

Through Feb. 6 th : $114<br />

Feb. 7 th through <strong>March</strong> 6 th : $119<br />

<strong>March</strong> 7 th through <strong>March</strong> 20 th : $124<br />

<strong>March</strong> 21 st through Full: $129<br />

Go to www.FFPS.org to sign up. Registration<br />

fee includes a full uniform (jersey, shorts and<br />

socks), trophy, trained positive coaches, nice<br />

fields and background checks on all volunteers.<br />

Coaches will call players to schedule practice<br />

by April 3 rd . Practice times and location will<br />

be determined by the coach and team. The<br />

schedule includes eight games, played locally<br />

on Saturdays, April 7 th to May 26 th . Our Katy<br />

league plays at George Bush Park - FFPS Soccer<br />

Complex (20150 Westheimer Parkway). Our<br />

Fulshear League plays at Huggins Elementary<br />

(No. 1 Huggins Dr). Our West Houston League<br />

plays at Westside High School (14201 Briar<br />

Forest). Our Westpark/Beltway League plays<br />

at Quillian Center (10570 Westpark Dr). Our<br />

Spring Branch/Memorial League plays at St.<br />

Andrew Lutheran Church (1353 Witte Rd).<br />

WEST HOUSTON RUGBY CLUB<br />

West Houston Rugby Club offers excellent<br />

opportunities for players of all ages from<br />

minis to adults to participate in one of America’s<br />

fastest growing sports. Our coaches are<br />

fully accredited with USA Rugby and include<br />

former European premiership players. We are<br />

a not for profit club with a mission to provide<br />

outstanding club management, a fun social<br />

environment and the feeling of a rugby family.<br />

Registration is now open for the <strong>2018</strong> season<br />

at www.westhoustonrugby.com. Enquiries<br />

may be sent to info@westhoustonrugby.<br />

com. Come and join the fastest growing club<br />

in Houston!<br />

KATY AREA RUNNING CLUB<br />

The Katy Area Running Club is a 501(c)3<br />

non-profit corporation which exists to serve<br />

people living in and around Katy, Texas who<br />

have an interest in running. We are a community<br />

of people of all ages, backgrounds,<br />

heritages and abilities who share a common<br />

interest - running! Our focus is on group runs,<br />

having fun, socializing and sharing our knowledge<br />

and experience with our members and<br />

the public. We welcome all who are interested<br />

in joining us. We have a full calendar of runs,<br />

events and socials. We hold group runs every<br />

Saturday morning at the Sergeant Hatch<br />

Sports Park off the south I-10 feeder road just<br />

east of Barker Cypress Rd. On Tuesdays (5 AM<br />

and 6:30 PM) we meet at the Cinco Ranch Junior<br />

High Track for speedwork and on Thursday<br />

(6:30 PM) we meet at Crosspoint Community<br />

Church for tempo runs of various distances and<br />

paces. To find out more and to join our club,<br />

visit www.KatyAreaRunningClub.com.<br />

TENNIS ORGANIZATION<br />

FOR THE KATY AREA<br />

Katy Area Tennis (KAT) is the newest, non-profit<br />

tennis organization meeting the needs of<br />

all tennis players in the Katy area. Our goal is<br />

to provide a wide range of programming for<br />

tennis players as well as to promote the game<br />

in the Katy area. Registration is currently open<br />

for a variety of leagues, ladders and tournaments<br />

that include singles, doubles and mixed<br />

doubles for all ages and skill levels. For more<br />

information, visit our website at<br />

http://katyareatennis.org.<br />

TRACK HOUSTON YOUTH TRACK CLUB<br />

Track Houston is the nation’s largest and most<br />

successful youth track and field organization.<br />

Our goal is to assist interested boys and girls<br />

ages 6 to18 years old in improving their phys-<br />

26 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


ical fitness and mental stamina. We have multiple practice sites in the<br />

Greater Houston area including McMeans Junior High School in Katy<br />

and Cypress Lakes High School in Cypress. Visit www.trackhouston.<br />

com to register for a location near you.<br />

KATY CANOE & KAYAK CLUB (KC/KC)<br />

Established <strong>March</strong> of 2014 (Over 200 Members). Never paddled before,<br />

that’s okay too! We don’t own a store, don’t purchase anything yet! Join<br />

our meetings and we can answer your questions and/or assist you in<br />

trying out new gear and equipment. KC/KC is a non-profit organization<br />

with major Sponsors. Must be at least 21 years of age to join.<br />

LIFE VEST/PFD IS A MUST!!!!<br />

We meet every 3 rd Wednesday of each month at 24638 Kingsland<br />

Blvd., Katy TX 77494 (Manta Ray Enterprises, Inc.), 7-9 PM. For more<br />

information, call Philip at 713-826-5705 or 281-782-7252. “Remember-Think<br />

Safe, Paddle Safe”<br />

NETBALL CLUBS<br />

Katy Swifts Netball Club invites people to come and learn about netball<br />

and have some fun playing a great team sport. Open to everyone from<br />

eight years and up including adults. Contact katynetball@netballamerica<br />

for further information.<br />

Houston Shooting Stars welcomes ladies, men and youth to join in, play<br />

and learn netball, Tuesday nights at The British School of Houston.<br />

Contact houstonnetball@netballamerica.com for further information.<br />

You can also “like” the Texas Netball Association on Facebook to see<br />

regular announcements about netball in the Lonestar State! Also visit<br />

netballamerica.com for general information about netball in America.<br />

WOMEN’S FLAT TRACK ROLLER DERBY<br />

Southwest Houston’s own brand new women’s flat track roller derby<br />

team is now forming. This isn’t the old school roller derby you’ve seen<br />

in the past. We train derby athletes to compete according to the rules<br />

and guidelines set forth by WFTDA, the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association.<br />

We are actively recruiting skaters, referees and volunteers.<br />

Skaters must be female and 18 or older. Referees and volunteers must<br />

be 18 or older. Email us at yellowrosederbygirls@yahoo.com for more<br />

information. You can also find us at www.yellowrosederbygirls.com<br />

and on Facebook. Join up now to become an integral part in founding<br />

and building our league.<br />

VOLLEYBALL<br />

Please contact Dean at volleyballkaty@yahoo.com if you are interested<br />

in playing volleyball. You must be at least 18 years old and be able to<br />

play at intermediate level. We play at different locations in and around<br />

Katy area.<br />

KATY RUGBY CLUB<br />

Want to learn the newest Olympic Sport - Rugby? All ages welcome -<br />

boys & girls, Training every Sunday 2-4 PM at Cinco Ranch High School,<br />

For more information, please visit www.katyrugbyclub.com.<br />

KATY CAVALIER LACROSSE CLUB<br />

The Katy Cavalier Lacrosse Club invites you to come and see what Lacrosse<br />

is all about. Join us as we continue to bring one of the fastest<br />

growing team sports in the United States to the youth of Katy. Katy<br />

Cavalier Lacrosse Club offers lacrosse for boys and girls from Kindergarten<br />

thru High School. No experience needed. For more information<br />

visit our website, www.katycavalierlacrosse.org.<br />

Did you play Lacrosse in college, coached lacrosse or just love the<br />

sport? We are looking for Coaches for boys and girls. Please contact<br />

us for more information if you would like to volunteer and be a part of<br />

the Katy Cavalier Lacrosse Club, 281-942-8822.<br />

WESTSIDE GOLF LEAGUE<br />

Westside Golf League is actively encouraging new members. We invite<br />

you to join us every Tuesday morning at Cinco Ranch Golf Club. Our<br />

purpose is to allow ladies of all levels to meet new friends and have<br />

fun while improving golfing skills. For more information, contact the<br />

Pro Shop at Cinco Ranch, 281-395-4653.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

27


Krenek Printing<br />

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTERS<br />

www.krenekprinting.com<br />

281-463-8649<br />

RESIDENTS:<br />

Please support the businesses within<br />

this newsletter. It is because of their support<br />

that you receive this paper at no charge<br />

to you or your HOA.<br />

Share your community news with us.<br />

Non-profit, scouts, school, dated events, etc.<br />

send to news@krenekprinting.com<br />

ADVERTISERS:<br />

Want your ad to be placed in this newsletter<br />

and mailed to the homeowners every month?<br />

For more information, pricing or to view<br />

newsletters online please visit<br />

www.krenekprinting.com or email<br />

ads@krenekprinting.com<br />

BUSINESS FINDER:<br />

Search for businesses in your local area<br />

and find great deals on the goods and<br />

services you are looking for!<br />

NEWSLETTERS:<br />

View your newsletter online! You can<br />

read your community news on our website<br />

or download it to take with you and print.<br />

Archived issues are also available.<br />

MOBILE:<br />

You now have access to our full website optimized for<br />

your mobile device, making it even easier to find the<br />

things you need on the go!<br />

MORE:<br />

Find information about advertising<br />

opportunities, article submissions, our<br />

company, frequently asked questions,<br />

and submit your classified ads online.<br />

NOW OFFERING FULL COLOR<br />

PRINTING SERVICES!<br />

Call today for a quote!<br />

LLC<br />

TEXAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL WEST CAMPUS (KATY)<br />

We are looking for volunteers 18 years old and up, be committed once a week 3-4 consecutive<br />

hours for a minimum of six months. Different assignments are available to choose<br />

from 7 AM-midnight Monday - Sunday to support patients, families and staff. Please<br />

contact us if you are interested at 832-227-1185 or www.waystogive.texaschildrens.org/<br />

ways-to-give/volunteer/.<br />

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT MEMORIAL HERMANN KATY HOSPITAL<br />

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital has volunteer opportunities available. Whether you<br />

are interested in working in the nursery, at our reception desk, in our gift shop or even<br />

transporting patients, we have a place for you. For more information, please contact<br />

Heather Rojas, Manager of Volunteer Services at 281-644-7581.<br />

Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition, Inc<br />

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES FOR WILDLIFE ADVOCATES<br />

Enjoy a rewarding volunteer experience with wildlife. Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition,<br />

Inc. is a non-profit organization, which serves as an emergency care and rehabilitation<br />

facility for orphaned, ill, and injured native Texas wildlife. Volunteers are welcome in the<br />

areas of assisting in the daily functions of the center, assisting with public education programs,<br />

and wildlife rehabilitation. Located at 10801 Hammerly, Suite 200, the facility is open<br />

seven days a week to help wildlife in need. TWRC has a mentor program in place to assist<br />

volunteers with “hands on” training for those interested in becoming permitted rehabilitators.<br />

We invite you to join our organization in saving Texas wildlife - one animal at a time.<br />

Call the center at 713-468-8972 for more information or email the Volunteer Coordinator<br />

at coordinator@twrcwildlifecenter.org. Visit our website at www.twrcwildlifecenter.org.<br />

PREGNANCY HELP CENTER SEEKS NEW VOLUNTEERS<br />

Invest your time by volunteering with Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston educating<br />

and supporting men and women in making healthy choices for life in sexual integrity,<br />

unplanned pregnancy and post-abortion loss. Volunteer opportunities include mentoring,<br />

facilitating small groups, administrative assistance, medical services, donation<br />

room and development. Discover your calling!<br />

For information inquire through the web site vsc@phckaty.org or call 281-578-0078, Volunteer<br />

Services Coordinator. The Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston is a non-profit<br />

faith based organization.<br />

STANDUP FOR KIDS<br />

How would you feel if you saved a kid’s life? StandUp For Kids is an all volunteer organization<br />

dedicated to saving the lives of at-risk and homeless kids through volunteer<br />

outreach efforts. Our volunteers search the streets in order to find, stabilize and otherwise<br />

help homeless and street kids improve their lives. Every day throughout the US thirteen<br />

kids die on the streets from abuse, disease and suicide. According to recent statistics<br />

Houston has up to 2,500 kids living on the streets at any given time. Texas has the highest<br />

rate of homeless youth in the U.S.<br />

StandUp For Kids needs supplies for our Houston program, which provides food, clothing,<br />

counseling and a safe environment for the homeless youth of Houston. If you or your<br />

organization would like to hold a food or clothing drive for StandUp For Kids, please<br />

contact me at HeatherE@standupforkids.org to learn more about StandUp For Kids or<br />

how you can help, visit our website at www.standupforkids.org. The single greatest need,<br />

for homeless and street kids is our continuous caring and real support. We must convince<br />

them that we care, we want them back and we want to help them get off the streets.<br />

SIRE, HOUSTON’S THERAPEUTIC EQUESTRIAN CENTERS<br />

Nothing else can compare with therapy on horseback. Equine-assisted activities improve<br />

physical balance and coordination, mental acuity, emotional stability and social<br />

interactions. At SIRE, we see miracles on horseback happen every day. The work of our<br />

28 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


dedicated volunteers helps guarantee that children and adults with disabilities<br />

in the Greater Houston Area will have the programs they need to live longer,<br />

healthier, more productive lives.<br />

In addition to their weekly work in the arena, many of our volunteers donate<br />

their time and talents at fund-raising events such as our annual Ride-A-<br />

Thon and the yearly Trailblazers Luncheon. Volunteers are on hand during<br />

the NARHA on-site certification and annual SIRE Show-Off and volunteers<br />

are vital to our Clients’ successes at the Top Hands Horse Show, during the<br />

Houston Rodeo and competition at the regional and state Special Olympics.<br />

Therapeutic horseback riding creates a bond of success between the rider<br />

and their horse. Volunteers are their own personal cheering section and the<br />

instructor is their mentor and coach. Clients become more empowered and<br />

better equipped to fully live their lives, each day.<br />

KATY KATY<br />

PET<br />

Pet Pet Sitting in in Your Home<br />

Pet Sitting in Your Home<br />

Kim & Dave 281-395-0182<br />

www.katypetnannies.com<br />

pets@katypetnannies.com<br />

Your Pets Deserve the Luxury of a Nanny<br />

To volunteer, please call one of our arenas and ask to speak with a volunteer<br />

coordinator. SIRESpring, call 281-353-6160. SIREHockley, call 281-356-7588.<br />

SIRE Fort Bend, call 281-344-4308.<br />

VOLUNTEER KATY<br />

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

service projects and try to figure out the best way to make a difference in<br />

our community. All volunteers welcome. Contact: Linda Wilson at 281-222-<br />

1771 or visit<br />

http://volunteerism.meetup.com/230.<br />

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT<br />

AUTUMN GROVE COTTAGE<br />

Do you enjoy spending time with seniors? Autumn Grove Cottage is an assisted<br />

living facility for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia related illnesses.<br />

We are interested in volunteers socializing with our Residents. We are a small<br />

cottage, close to your neighborhood, with just 16 Residents. If you would<br />

like to volunteer in a cozy, home-like atmosphere then call the Volunteer<br />

Coordinator at 281-398-6845 or visit our website www.autumngrovecottage.<br />

com. Come be a part of our philosophy - “To honor our Residents and those<br />

who love and care for them.” Volunteers will need to complete a volunteer<br />

application and attend a brief training session.<br />

BECOME A SUNRISE VOLUNTEER<br />

Fond memories and treasured traditions start here! Enrich lives through your<br />

generous gift of service as a Sunrise Volunteer. Please call the Activity and<br />

Volunteer Coordinator for opportunities and details at 281-240-0500 or email<br />

cinco-ranch.avc@sunriseseniorliving.com. Sunrise Assisted Living of Cinco<br />

Ranch is located at 21939 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy, Texas, 77450. For more<br />

information, you can also visit our website at www.sunriseseniorliving.com.<br />

KATY COMMUNITY GIVING CIRCLE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS<br />

The Katy Community Giving Circle is open to any resident in the Katy area<br />

who wants to make a difference by giving collectively. Our mission is to<br />

create a circle of giving in our community by collectively contributing to<br />

organizations that will benefit or improve the lives of the people in our<br />

neighborhoods. By combining members tax deductible donations of just<br />

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

first year we have been able to gift grants to 2 local organizations and we<br />

are building a community of giving friends. For more information, please<br />

visit our Facebook page<br />

facebook.com/katycommunitygivingcircle.<br />

ADOPT A US SOLDIER<br />

Adopt A US Soldier is a non-profit organization that seeks volunteers and<br />

donors to help show the brave men and women fighting for our freedom<br />

that their sacrifices will not go unnoticed. It connects supportive civilians<br />

with deployed soldiers and offers a channel by which to communicate<br />

encouragement and express gratitude to those serving in the United States<br />

Armed Forces. Adopt A US Soldier is sustained by its volunteer workforce<br />

located across the United States.<br />

After a supporter asked a soldier what they needed, his response was as<br />

follows: “No requests, just don’t want to be forgotten.” -LCPL O.J.T. III<br />

When registering for Adopt A US Soldier your involvement can range from writing<br />

letters and sending postcards, to mailing care packages full of items a soldier<br />

may need or want. Handwritten letters are most important and meaningful to<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

29


Air Conditioning Contractors of America<br />

soldiers. Adopt A US Soldier encourages civilians to adopt a soldier to show your<br />

support for those that are making sacrifices for our country. If interested, please<br />

go to www.adoptaussoldier.org to register.<br />

SPANISH MEADOWS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY<br />

In just 1 hour you could touch the hearts of at least 4 seniors. Do you have a little free<br />

time? Do you enjoy the company of seniors? We would love to have you volunteer<br />

your time and services to our wonderful residents. Spanish Meadows Nursing and<br />

Rehab opened its doors in the fall of 2005 bringing quality care in a luxury environment<br />

to Katy and surrounding communities. We are located at 1480 Katy Flewellen<br />

Road, Katy, TX 77494. To get further information on volunteering, please contact<br />

Robbin at 281-394-0088 or spanishmeadowsactivities@gmail.com. Please visit our<br />

website at www.spanish-meadows.com.<br />

T<br />

K<br />

C<br />

he<br />

leaning<br />

ompany<br />

• Load & Unload Dishwasher<br />

• Clean Outside of Appliances<br />

• Sweep Front Porch<br />

• Change Linens & Towels<br />

• Dust Window Ledges & Sills<br />

• Remove Trash<br />

• Dust Mini Blinds & Ceiling Fans<br />

• Damp Wipe Outside of Cabinets<br />

• Clean Baseboards<br />

281-861-0394<br />

• Pool Services<br />

• Personal Assistance Care<br />

• Move In/Out<br />

• Competitive Rates<br />

• Locally Owned & Operated<br />

• Bonded & Insured<br />

• FREE PHONE ESTIMATE<br />

$<br />

10 OFF<br />

First Visit<br />

www.thekleaningcompany.com<br />

“Dust if you must, but why not have us.”<br />

Extend Life Service A/C Save Money<br />

• Annual<br />

Maintenance<br />

Programs<br />

• All repairs<br />

guaranteed<br />

281-394-0028 • Serving area<br />

Free estimate or 2 nd opinion since 1994<br />

$25 off<br />

any<br />

repair<br />

License TACLB 24777E and Insured<br />

Expires 3/31/18<br />

VICTORY PAINTING<br />

& WOOD ROT REPLACEMENT<br />

PR O MPT - RELIABLE - AFFORDABLE - SINCE 1993<br />

Interior & Exterior Painting • Storm Damage Repair<br />

Siding Replacement • Custom Woodwork<br />

Extensive References • Free Estimates<br />

Will Meet or Beat Competitor’s Prices • Satisfaction Guaranteed<br />

www.VictoryPaintingTx.com • VicNewman@Mail.com<br />

281-853-4575<br />

FREE<br />

Duct Inspection<br />

with tune-up<br />

0% Interest<br />

financing available<br />

Expires 3/31/18 WAC<br />

Expires 3/31/18<br />

IdealAirServices.com<br />

CLOTHED BY FAITH<br />

We are looking for volunteers to join our amazing team! Please see our<br />

website www.clothedbyfaith.com for more information or email yiasmere@<br />

clothedbyfaith.org. Located at 802 Dominion Drive, Suite 100 in Katy. CBF<br />

demonstrates God’s love through the provision of gently used clothing to<br />

those in need.<br />

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT<br />

HOUSTON APHASIA RECOVERY CENTER<br />

HARC, a non-profit wellness facility for persons with aphasia, is looking for<br />

volunteers to help in our programs. HARC is located at 3701 Briarpark Drive,<br />

Suite #310, Houston 77042, which is just inside of Beltway 8 in the Westchase<br />

district of town. We offer training and support to all of our volunteers.<br />

Volunteer days and times are flexible based on need. For more information,<br />

contact our center at 713-781-7100. More information about HARC and<br />

aphasia is also available on our website: www.harctx.org.<br />

KATY CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES NEEDS VOLUNTEERS<br />

Katy Christian Ministries is looking for volunteers to help in various areas<br />

of the ministry and special events. If you would love to make a difference in<br />

the community by volunteering, please visit our website at www.ktcm.org,<br />

email info@ktcm.org or call 281-391-5261 for further information.<br />

HEALTHBRIDGE VOLUNTEERING<br />

HealthBridge Children’s Hospital, www.healthbridgehouston.com, located<br />

in the Westchase District of Houston is looking for volunteers. Our 40 bed<br />

pediatric facility helps children ages 0-21 years of age as they transition<br />

from hospital to home. Volunteers can assist our team with direct patient<br />

interactions (play, baby holding, reading, mentoring) and indirect patient<br />

care (greeters, phone reception and administrative tasks). Volunteer hours<br />

vary, please contact Ellyn Poole at epoole@nhsltd.com for more information.<br />

VOLUNTEERS WANTED at BUCKNER HOSPICE OF HOUSTON<br />

Buckner Hospice of Houston is in need of volunteers. We offer many different<br />

volunteer opportunities from Patient visits to office duties. Hours of very<br />

flexible to fit your busy schedule. You donate the number of hours you can.<br />

Please contact Toni Cruse Volunteer Coordinator at 281-493-6800 or<br />

713-918-9320 for more information.<br />

KATY QUILTERS NEEDS HELP FOR CHARITIES<br />

Calling on all the quilters in the area to help make pillowcases and small<br />

blankets. This last year we donated over 200 pillowcases and small blankets<br />

to various charities. The demand is even higher with all of the families that<br />

have lost their homes because of the fires in and around our area. We need<br />

you and we have fabric that has been donated but we need your hands and<br />

time to make someone smile. If you would like to help, call the Katy Quilters,<br />

Shari Medford at 281-635-3000.<br />

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: VANTAGE HOSPICE<br />

Vantage Volunteers Needed! Looking to volunteer in a way that makes a<br />

difference in people’s lives? This is it! Our compassionate volunteer team<br />

takes an individualized approach to care. We help provide the best quality<br />

of life, for the end of life. This is accomplished through social interaction,<br />

companionship, active listening and activities. In addition, sometimes we<br />

aide and support the family by relieving the caregiver. If interested, contact<br />

Tracy Roth at troth@vantagehospice.com.<br />

30 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


FOSTER CHILDREN: PREPARATION FOR ADULT LIVING (PAL)<br />

When foster children reach age 18, they are considered independent.<br />

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

arranged by caseworkers with state funds. Now they’ll have to figure out<br />

how to organize themselves and make their money last a whole month.<br />

Fortunately, Child protective Services offers them a program to help prepare<br />

for independence: Preparation for Adult Living (PAL). The year-long<br />

course culminates in an all-day workshop hosted by the National Council<br />

for Jewish Women (NCJW). The course is held at Junior Achievement’s<br />

BizTown, using computer kiosks sponsored by local businesses. Want<br />

to help with PAL or other NCJW programs that help change lives with<br />

hands-on community service? Contact info@ncjwhouston.org or see www.<br />

ncjwhouston.org.<br />

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT CHRIST CLINIC KATY<br />

Christ Clinic Katy is a nonprofit that provides quality healthcare to uninsured<br />

and underinsured patients living Fort Bend and Harris Counties.<br />

Volunteers Medical Providers (MD, DO, NP, PA or specialty provider) Nurses,<br />

Medical Assistants, medical students and individuals looking to learn more<br />

about the medical field are needed to help Christ Clinic fulfill its mission.<br />

To volunteer, please call Beverly Allen at 281-574-1540 or via email at<br />

beverly@christclinickaty.org. Or visit www.christclinickaty.org to register<br />

for an upcoming volunteer orientation.<br />

LITERACY ADVANCE OF HOUSTON<br />

IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS<br />

Your way to transform a life in need… Teach someone to read! Just a few<br />

hours a week can make all the difference for someone in your community!<br />

Literacy Advance is Houston’s largest and oldest 100% volunteer-supported<br />

literacy organization - and we need your help! We’re calling all passionate<br />

volunteers to help adults learn to read, write and speak English. All classes<br />

are free because they are taught by caring people just like you willing to<br />

volunteer a few hours a week. We’d love to match you with a person in<br />

need. Ola read her first book at age 49, thanks to a tutor just like you. Prior<br />

teaching experience is welcome but not necessary. Training and ongoing<br />

support is provided and we have locations across the city. Other volunteer<br />

opportunities are available as well, to find out more please contact Anna<br />

Zubkova, Volunteer Manager, at tutor@literacyadvance.org or at 713-266-<br />

8777 ext.16.<br />

GIVE BACK & MENTOR A LOCAL JUVENILE<br />

Please commit to becoming a positive adult role model for the youth<br />

in our community. The juveniles are referred by the Fort Bend County<br />

Juvenile Probation Department. There are so many children in need of a<br />

listening ear and encouragement. Come forward and be that person for<br />

someone in need… you may be the ONLY one! Mentors must be 21 years<br />

of age and willing to give a minimum of an hour per week. Please contact<br />

Susan Bearden at 281-633-7317, susan.bearden@fortbendcountytx.gov or<br />

www.facebook.com/fortbendjpdspecialprograms.<br />

GIVE A SENIOR THE GIFT OF MOBILITY!<br />

KATY AREA RIDE SERVICE NEEDS YOUR HELP DRIVING OLDER ADULTS<br />

Katy Area Ride Service (KARS) is looking for your assistance in transporting<br />

seniors in need of personal (hair salon, bank, classes, volunteering, visiting<br />

a loved one, taking a pet to the vet) and occasional medical rides. Rides are<br />

provided in your personal vehicles to passengers who are age 65+ and ambulatory<br />

(not wheelchair bound, may use walking aids). Time commitment<br />

is flexible and you choose the Katy territory in which you want to drive.<br />

Volunteers do not provide rides that go east of Barker Cypress, north of<br />

Clay Road, west of FM 1463 or south of Bellaire Blvd at the Grand Parkway.<br />

Benefits to Volunteer Drivers include the opportunity to help seniors retain<br />

independent living, dignity and freedom. Drivers tell us the day(s) and times<br />

they are able to drive. Drivers choose if they wait for the senior or return later<br />

to pick them up. Drivers must be between 21 years of age and 78 years of<br />

age with a good driving record, pass a background check and show proof<br />

of insurance coverage (state minimums) as required by the State of Texas.<br />

To request a volunteer driver application, call 832-773-8645 or email info@<br />

karskaty.org. KARS operates under an official 501(c)(3) that designates it<br />

as a transportation service provider for seniors and non-wheelchair bound<br />

persons with disabilities.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

Kerri Graham<br />

Attorney at Law<br />

Christy Theander<br />

Attorney at Law<br />

21559 Provincial Blvd., Suite A<br />

Katy, TX 77450<br />

Graham & Theander<br />

(281) 940-3000<br />

www.gtkatylaw.com<br />

•Probate<br />

•Guardianship<br />

•Estate Planning/Wills<br />

•Medicaid<br />

•Divorce/Child Support<br />

•Contested Will<br />

•Contested Guardianship<br />

•Special Needs Planning<br />

INTERPRETERS NEEDED<br />

Christ Clinic, 25722 Kingsland, Blvd Suite 101, Katy, TX 77494, provides<br />

quality medical care to the uninsured. We are in need of bilingual volunteers<br />

to facilitate communication between Spanish-speaking patients and<br />

English-speaking staff by providing skilled language interpretation services.<br />

Volunteers will serve as Interpreters for doctors, nurses and other health<br />

professionals. The clinic is also in need of Medical Providers (MD, DO, NP,<br />

PA or specialty provider) Registered Nurses, Medical Assistants and medical<br />

students looking to gain experience in a charity medical clinic setting.<br />

To volunteer, please call Michael Peterson at 832-913-8476 or via email at<br />

michael@christclinickaty.org.<br />

Visit www.christclinickaty.org to complete a volunteer form.<br />

KATY COMMUNITY GIVING CIRCLE<br />

The Katy Community Giving Circle is open to any resident of the Katy area<br />

or surrounding communities who wants to make a difference by giving<br />

collectively. Our mission is to create a circle of giving in our community by<br />

collectively contributing to organizations that will benefit or improve the<br />

lives of people in our neighborhoods. By combining members tax deductible<br />

donations of just $10 per month, we are determined to make a greater<br />

giving impact! In our first year we have been able to gift grants to 2 local<br />

organizations and we are building a community of giving friends along the<br />

way! For more information please visit our facebook page facebook.com/<br />

katycommunitygivingcircle.<br />

Roof Leaking?<br />

Specialized in Roof Repairs<br />

Our Family Trade Since 1945<br />

• Whole Roofs & Roof Repairs<br />

• Seamless Gutters & Downspouts<br />

• Wall Flashing<br />

• Soffit & Fascia<br />

• Skylights & Chimneys<br />

• Window Replacement<br />

• Other Difficult Repairs<br />

281-391-8257<br />

www.callenroofing.com<br />

WE FIX IT RIGHT<br />

THE FIRST TIME!<br />

31


A.A.A.<br />

Tree Services<br />

& Landscaping<br />

925 South Mason Rd. P.M.B. 239<br />

Katy, TX 77450<br />

281-798-5224<br />

a.a.a.landscaping.2005@gmail.com<br />

• Tree Removal<br />

• Tree Trimming<br />

• Palm Tree Trimming<br />

• Stump Removal<br />

• Lots Cleaned Up<br />

• Landscaping Designs<br />

15% OFF<br />

Any Service<br />

With this ad.<br />

Fence<br />

Installation<br />

Special<br />

• Flagstone & Paver Patios<br />

• Sod Replacement<br />

• Sprinklers Repair<br />

• Fence Installation & Repair<br />

• Mulch<br />

• Monthly Packages<br />

• Drainage System<br />

JUST FOR FUN...HOBBY<br />

NOTTINGHAM COUNTRY GARDEN CLUB<br />

On Thursday, <strong>March</strong> 8 th , Nottingham Country Garden Club (NCGC) will feature Elizabeth<br />

Fisher, who will be speaking about “How to Grow (or Kill) Orchids in Three Easy Steps.”<br />

Elizabeth has a PhD in Geophysics, is a Master Gardener and is a specialist in Entomology.<br />

Meet and greet time begins at 9:30 AM and the program will start at 10 AM, followed by the<br />

NCGC meeting. Please join us at the Municipal Utility Building #81 at 805 Hidden Canyon<br />

Drive in Katy 77450. For more information please see our website: www.ncgctx.org.<br />

We welcome all people interested in gardening and gardening-related areas from West<br />

Houston and the Katy area. You do not have to live in Nottingham Country to belong to<br />

our group!<br />

NCGC is a non-profit organization affiliated with the Houston Federation of Garden Clubs,<br />

the Texas Garden Clubs and the National Federation of Garden Clubs. The purpose of the<br />

club is to promote beautification in the community, support local and national educational<br />

and charitable organizations and educate the community about our environment. Donations<br />

from the NCGC are funded by our annual Spring Sale and projects that vary each year.<br />

GRACE NOTES<br />

Singers and instrumentalists are invited to join “Grace Notes” a women’s performing<br />

group which shares music in the community at retirement homes, Alzheimer’s and nursing<br />

facilities and various community events. We sing once a month for the congregation of<br />

St. Peter’s during Sunday worship services. Grace Notes sings a combination of secular,<br />

sacred and patriotic music and rehearse during the school year in E106 from 9:30 AM to<br />

11:30 AM. Tuesday mornings are also our “outing” days to perform in the community.<br />

Babysitting is provided. Come and join this wonderful music ministry. Regular rehearsals<br />

began in August. Please contact Gail Shipley at 281-782-1598 or gshipnote@live.com for<br />

more information.<br />

DECIBELLES - A BARBERSHOP CHORUS<br />

LET US ENTERTAIN YOU! We are the DECIBELLES (a Barbershop Chorus) performing around<br />

the Houston area and nearby towns. We prepare two shows each year complete with<br />

costumes, narratives and choreography. Our regular show this year features songs from<br />

1900 through the current year. Brighten your meeting, gathering or any type get-together<br />

with a half hour of four-part harmonies and cheerful narratives. You will have as much fun<br />

as we do preparing our show.<br />

We are a (ladies only) daytime chorus rehearsing every Friday morning from 10:30 AM to<br />

12:30 PM, at the Treemont Retirement Center, 2501 Westerland, near Westheimer and<br />

Gessner. Come visit any Friday we are not performing. We would love to see you and if<br />

you decide to join us, we would be delighted. For more information, please call Pat at<br />

281-497-4904 or visit our website, www.Decibelles.org.<br />

KATY VOCAL EXPRESS<br />

Katy Vocal Express, the newest prospective Sweet Adelines Chorus has arrived in the<br />

Katy area. The name honors the history of the Katy railroad while looking forward to the<br />

barbershop harmony that is now being made in Katy. Ladies from the Katy/West Houston<br />

area are invited to attend chorus rehearsal any Thursday evening, 7-9 PM at Holy Covenant<br />

United Methodist Church, 22111 Morton Ranch Road, Katy 77493. There are signs guiding<br />

you to the correct place on the east side of the property.<br />

To reserve your spot or for more information, please email katyvocalexpress@gmail.com.<br />

Singers of all ranges of experience make up KVE.<br />

Some have years of chorus singing while others have very little singing<br />

experience. The ability to read music is helpful but not required; you<br />

just need the desire to sing and the ability to carry a tune.<br />

HARRIS COUNTY MASTER GARDENER<br />

The Texas AgriLife Extension Service and the Harris County Master Gardeners<br />

are pleased to offer the Green Thumb Gardening Series of Lectures. These<br />

presentations are free and there are no reservations. For questions, please<br />

call 713-274-0950.<br />

32 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


& CRAFT GROUPS<br />

GREEN THUMB COMMUNITY EDUCATION LECTURE SERIES - HERBS<br />

<strong>March</strong> 17 th - 10:30 AM-12:30 PM. Maud Smith Marks Library, 1815 Westgreen<br />

Blvd, Katy, TX 77450.<br />

<strong>March</strong> 20 th - 6:30 PM-8:30 PM. Spring Branch Memorial Library, 930 Corbindale,<br />

Houston, TX 77024.<br />

OPEN GARDEN DAY ADULT WORKSHOP AND CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES<br />

<strong>March</strong> 27 th - 10-11 AM. Weekley Community Center,<br />

8440 Greenhouse Rd.,<br />

Call 713-274-0950 to register or ogd.harrishort@gmail.com for more information.<br />

Join us on Facebook - Harris County Master Gardeners.<br />

AMERICAN SEWING GUILD IN KATY<br />

Do you like sewing? Would you like to meet other sewing enthusiast in the<br />

Katy area? Then check out the Katy Neighborhood Group of the American<br />

Sewing Guild’s Houston Chapter. We meet on the 3 rd Wednesday of every<br />

month from 1 PM to 3 PM, at Quilt & Sew, 829 Mason Rd., Katy. For more<br />

information, please check out our website at www.asghouston.org.<br />

Water Heaters • Drain Problems<br />

Faucet Installation & Repair<br />

Gas Test • Water Leaks & Much More<br />

35+ Years Experience<br />

832-890-8449<br />

TonysPlumbing57@hotmail.com<br />

Always there for you!<br />

$30 off<br />

any Job<br />

Over $95<br />

Low Price Guarantee<br />

Licensed & Insured<br />

FREE ESTIMATES<br />

MPL#40815<br />

Become a Dental Assistant<br />

in just 10 weeks!<br />

10 Week Course<br />

Tuition $3250 • Payment Plans<br />

Training Since 1995<br />

Spring Session begins<br />

April 7, <strong>2018</strong><br />

PRIDE OF TEXAS DECORATIVE ARTISTS<br />

The Pride of Texas Decorative Artists (a division of National Tole Society)<br />

would like to invite all decorative artists to our monthly meeting on the<br />

2 nd Thursday of the month at 6:30 PM. We meet at Bear Creek Community<br />

Center off Patterson Rd. in Bear Creek Park. Our monthly “make it & take<br />

it” programs are taught by local artists. Please join us for fun and new<br />

ideas. For more information, call Gloria Ware 281-492-0246.<br />

WEST HOUSTON QUILTER’S GUILD<br />

The West Houston Quilters Guild would like to invite all quilters and quilt<br />

lovers to our monthly meetings. The meetings are held at 6:30 to 9 PM,<br />

on the 3 rd Wednesday of each month, at Bear Creek Community Center,<br />

3055 Bear Creek Dr., Houston, TX 77084. We have many good programs<br />

lined up this year for both the beginner and the more experienced quilter.<br />

Everyone goes home with new tips. For hands on experience, join one of<br />

our ongoing “bees”. Guests are welcome! For more information, check<br />

our website at www.whqg.org.<br />

KATY QUILTERS<br />

FREE Introduction to Quilting. If you thought that you would like to learn<br />

to quilt but have never sewed a stitch in your life... then this short introduction<br />

is for you. If you have sewed on and off all your life but have never<br />

attempted to quilt... then this is for you. Maybe you just want a hobby...<br />

this is for you. Take 2 hours out of your day to listen and view what it<br />

takes to start this new adventure. Time and place will be scheduled in<br />

the Katy Area. Call the Katy Quilters, Shari Medford at 281-635-3000.<br />

KATY AREA ARTISTS<br />

Katy area artists is a member league of the lone start art guild. Through<br />

this our members are connected with a wide array of artistic opportunities<br />

throughout southeastern texas. If you are interested in attending<br />

any of kaa’s artist workshops or becoming a member, please visit our<br />

website at katyareaartists.org for dates and times as well as the membership<br />

information.<br />

THE BLUEBONNET STENCILERS OF TEXAS<br />

The Bluebonnet Stencilers of Texas, a non-profit group serving all of<br />

Houston, meet each 1 st Monday of the month from 6:30 PM - 9 PM at the<br />

Tracy Gee Community Center, 3599 Westcenter (one block east of Sam<br />

Houston Toll Road West). This chapter is actively seeking new members<br />

in the Houston area. Membership is open to anyone who is interested in<br />

stenciling and the related arts of faux finishing and decorative painting. For<br />

more information concerning meetings, email blmrducks@sbcglobal.net.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

Houston Dental Assistant School<br />

Located in Katy and Spring/The Woodlands<br />

www.hdas.biz<br />

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

Approved by the TWC Career Schools and Colleges<br />

DISCLAIMER: Articles and ads in this newsletter express the opinions<br />

of their authors and do not necessarily reflect to opinions of Krenek<br />

Printing Co. or its employees. Krenek Printing is not responsible for<br />

the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. The<br />

publisher also assumes no responsibility for the advertising content<br />

with in this publication. All warranties and representations make in the<br />

advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims<br />

regarding its content should be taken up with the advertiser.<br />

The publisher assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for<br />

misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the<br />

actual cost of such advertising.<br />

Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and/or misprints in this<br />

publication the publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors of information<br />

or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated<br />

above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no<br />

circumstances shall the publisher be held liable for incidental or consequential<br />

damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities<br />

from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as<br />

limited to liabilities stated above.<br />

Published by: KRENEK PRINTING CO.<br />

www.krenekprinting.com<br />

33


Call Anytime!<br />

Local Utility Rebates Now Available<br />

TACLB019260E<br />

HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING<br />

UP TO $ 1400 REBATE<br />

$<br />

5O OFF<br />

on a New A/C & Heating System<br />

0% Interest Payment Plans<br />

Qualifying Models only. Call for Details.<br />

Must present at time of service. Expires 3/31/18.<br />

Any Repair<br />

Cannot be combined with any other offer.<br />

Must present at time of service. Expires 3/31/18.<br />

281-492-3450 myACandHEAT.com<br />

FREE ESTIMATES on New Equipment<br />

Same-Day Service<br />

THE HOUSTON POND SOCIETY<br />

The Houston Pond Society was formed in 2004 to meet a need for pond<br />

owners to meet and interface with other pond owners about the use<br />

of a pond as a landscape feature.<br />

A pond should be a part of the overall back yard habitat and landscaping,<br />

and that pond construction; water lilies, plants, fish, patios, decks,<br />

lighting and other landscape features should be some of the topics<br />

discussed at the meetings.<br />

Meetings are held the first Saturday of each month at a member’s home. For<br />

more information, please visit our website www.houstonpondsociety.org.<br />

WEST HOUSTON ROMANCE WRITERS<br />

The West Houston Chapter of the Romance Writers of America<br />

would like to invite aspiring writers, romance readers or anyone<br />

interested in the craft of writing to join them on the 2 nd Saturday of<br />

each month. Each meeting of the WHRWA is informative, entertaining<br />

and inspiring for those budding authors or published authors<br />

who are seeking answers to their writing related concerns. Several<br />

times throughout the year daylong workshops are presented by<br />

prominent names in the romance industry. Visit us on the web at<br />

www.whrwa.com for more information on upcoming events.<br />

FAIRBEE SQUARE AND LINE DANCE CLUB<br />

Learn the Folk Dance of Texas. The Fairbees dance each Thursday<br />

night, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM at Memorial Drive Lutheran Church, 12211<br />

Memorial Drive at Gessner. Information may be obtained by calling<br />

Jerry & Nanette Tucker 281-498-3057 or nanette777@hotmail.com.<br />

PRAIRIE PROMENADERS<br />

KATY SQUARE DANCE CLUB<br />

The Katy Prairie Promenaders dance on every Friday each month,<br />

from 8 PM to 10 PM. Club caller Fred Goynes has been calling for<br />

many years. Families welcome.<br />

All of the “fun” takes place at the Westland Baptist Church, 1407<br />

Grand Parkway S (Hwy 99), Katy. For details call Carl Holsworth at<br />

281-386-8504, Tom & Cheryl Berra at 281-492-8798 or Donna Bowen<br />

214-280-0003.<br />

HOUSTON SQUARE & ROUND DANCE COUNCIL, INC.<br />

For information about square and round dancing in the greater<br />

Houston area, call 281-392-0713 or visit the Houston area square<br />

dance web site: www.squarethru.com. Visitors are welcome at the<br />

area square dance clubs’ dances.<br />

HOUSTON UNDERWATER<br />

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY<br />

Houston Underwater Photographic Society is a nonprofit organization<br />

formed to encourage interest and promote participation in<br />

underwater photography/videography. Each meeting includes a<br />

speaker presentation and slide contest. Attendance is free to the<br />

public. Meetings are generally held the first Monday of each month<br />

and always at the Bayland Community Center, 6400 Bissonnet, at 7<br />

PM. For more information, call Tammy at 281-359-8171.<br />

KATY 4-F BASS CLUB<br />

(FRIENDS FISHING FOR FUN)<br />

The Katy 4-F Bass Club (Friends Fishing For Fun) is a small, low cost<br />

fishing club, based in Katy, Texas. We are a group of angler’s who<br />

simply love to fish! For information on our club such as joining,<br />

tournament results and area lakes we fish, visit<br />

www.katy4fbassclub.com. Boaters and non-boaters welcome!!!<br />

34 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


TEXAS TRIUMPH REGISTER (TTR)<br />

The Texas Triumph Register (TTR), founded<br />

in 1981, is an organization of Triumph<br />

owners and enthusiasts dedicated to the<br />

preservation and ongoing enjoyment of the<br />

Marque. Membership is open to all who appreciate<br />

automobiles bearing the Triumph<br />

name. In addition to monthly meetings, the<br />

club sponsors rallies, shows, road tours,<br />

technical seminars and social events. For<br />

more information, please contact Mike<br />

Hado at 281-807-4780, mdhado@att.net or<br />

visit www.TexasTriumphRegister.org.<br />

KATY BEAD GROUP<br />

The Katy Bead Group meets every Wednesday<br />

from noon to about 4:30 PM in a<br />

room on the second floor of the Fort Bend<br />

County Library - Cinco Ranch Branch, 2620<br />

Commercial Center Boulevard, Katy, Texas<br />

77494. This group was founded to promote<br />

the art of making bead jewelry, bead accoutrements<br />

and bead artwork. Members<br />

meet weekly and share ideas, techniques<br />

and skills. Beginners to skilled beaders are<br />

invited to attend. Call Jean Fortier 281-693-<br />

4398 or Carol Matkin 281-492-6053 for more<br />

information or email Fortijd@aol.com.<br />

KATY POKEMON TCG LEAGUE<br />

The Katy Pokemon TCG League is looking for<br />

new members! Using your own cards, you<br />

play tournament-style matches and learn<br />

new skills while making new friends with<br />

other Pokemon players who love playing<br />

just as much as you do! Even if you do not<br />

already know all of the rules of the game,<br />

at league, you can learn the game basics<br />

and perfect your strategy. The Katy League<br />

meets on Tuesday nights and is FREE! Player<br />

ages range from 6 to adult. We meet on<br />

Tuesday evenings from 6:00-8:00 PM at 3rd<br />

Coast Cards, 20829 Kingsland Blvd.). YOU<br />

MUST BRING YOUR OWN 60 CARD DECK<br />

and be ready for fun! We also ask that you<br />

visit www.pokemon.com and check out<br />

the POP Organized Play section for a list<br />

of the legal/playable cards before you join<br />

us. At league, you can earn free cards just<br />

for playing! Call Camille at 832-721-5481<br />

or check out www.PokemonBuzz.com for<br />

additional information about this and other<br />

great opportunities with Pokemon!<br />

WOODWORKER’S GUILD MEETINGS<br />

The Katy Woodworker’s Guild meets the last<br />

Tuesday of each month at the Katy Junior<br />

High School from 7:00-9:00 PM. Men and<br />

women enjoy working with wood. No experience,<br />

tools or equipment are necessary.<br />

Questions: Call Terry at 281-717-4215.<br />

HOUSTON AREA WOOD CARVERS CLUB<br />

The Houston Area Wood Carvers Club meets<br />

on the third Saturday of each month from 9<br />

AM - 2 PM, at Bayland Community Center in<br />

Houston (6400 Bissonnet). Members gather<br />

to enjoy fellowship with other carvers and<br />

to expand individual skills through classes,<br />

demonstrations and lectures by experts.<br />

HAWC is a non-profit, social organization<br />

whose members reside in the greater Houston<br />

area. To find out more about the Houston<br />

Area Wood Carvers Club, please call<br />

Preston and Carolyn Smith at 281-392-0713,<br />

email carolynann@consolidated.net or visit<br />

www.houstonareawoodcarvers.com.<br />

KATY CRUIZERS ANTIQUE CAR CLUB<br />

Own an antique or classic car or just like cars<br />

that take you back to “the good old days?” If<br />

you would like to meet others with the same<br />

interest, join us at our meetings held the first<br />

Monday of the month at Midway Barbeque,<br />

6025 Hwy. Blvd., Katy, TX. Come at 6 PM<br />

to eat or 6:45 PM for the meeting. Further<br />

questions? Email katycruizers@yahoo.com.<br />

COUPLES WHO LOVE TO PLAY BRIDGE<br />

If you live in the Fry road areas, Green Trail<br />

areas, Kelliwood areas, Nottingham Country,<br />

etc. and you are sincerely interested in<br />

playing a friendly game of “party bridge,”<br />

contact us. Need sub couples and possible<br />

permanent couples who are interested in<br />

“party bridge” and meeting new friends.<br />

We usually play from 6 PM to about 10:30<br />

PM the third Saturday of the month. We do<br />

not play duplicate bridge. Please call if you<br />

have any questions or need more information,<br />

281-647-6171 (ask for Linda or leave a<br />

message - repeat your phone number twice<br />

and I will return your call).<br />

CINCO RANCH MEN’S POKER GROUP<br />

Looking for new players. We play once per<br />

month Friday night from 7 PM to 11 PM, at<br />

host member’s homes in the Cinco Ranch<br />

area. We play a variety of poker games and<br />

some non-poker card games. This is a very<br />

friendly and informal group that enjoys its<br />

night out. If interested, call Jim at 281-450-<br />

1087 (cell) for further information.<br />

KATY ELKS LODGE BINGO<br />

The Katy Elks organization provides local<br />

scholarships to Katy ISD schools and assistance<br />

for special needs children in the<br />

Katy area and invites you to help support<br />

our community by playing Bingo at the<br />

following location and times: 1050 Katy Ft<br />

Bend Rd, Katy TX 77493. Every Tuesday and<br />

Thursday, doors open at 6:00 PM. We also<br />

serve food and drinks in our kitchen.<br />

PRIDE OF TEXAS DECORATIVE ARTISTS<br />

PTDA - Pride of Texas Decorative Artists<br />

(Society of Decorative Painters) meet the<br />

second Thursday monthly, 6:30 PM at Houston<br />

Community Center at Bear Creek, 3055<br />

Bear Creek Drive, Houston 77084. Monthly<br />

hands-on or demos and light meal; paint<br />

workshops; Community Service. Contact<br />

Janet at jjcpaints@yahoo.com or Lisa at<br />

lwilson@casualty.com.<br />

BABYLONIAN CHESS CLUB<br />

Great news for chess lovers! Babylonian<br />

Chess Club meets every Saturday at 1:30 PM<br />

at Katy library. All of Katy is welcome, 24/7<br />

chess. Contact Dr. Alkhafaji at 858-999-7070.<br />

HOPE IMPACTS<br />

A ladies craft day is offered at Hope Impacts<br />

office, 802 Dominion, Suite 300, Katy, TX<br />

77450, the last Thursday of each month<br />

from 12-1:30 PM. Registration required.<br />

Childcare is available if requested in advance.<br />

WOOD DOOR<br />

REFINISHING<br />

STRIP • STAIN • URETHANE COATING<br />

ON SITE COMPLETION<br />

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED<br />

Kenneth Thompson<br />

832-248-2315<br />

www.refinishingdoor.com<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

35


PET INFORMATION<br />

ATTENTION! PET POOPS / YOU SCOOP<br />

Please be respectful of community grounds and neighbors’ yards. If<br />

your pet poops during your walk, be prepared to scoop and trash.<br />

Come with a scooper and a recycled grocery bag or anything else. It<br />

may not be the most fabulous way to walk your pet, but it does show<br />

your respect for every homeowner and our beautiful community.<br />

HARRIS COUNTY LEASH LAW<br />

Animals that are not properly restrained pose a threat to all our residents.<br />

While you may know your pet is friendly, an animal running<br />

at someone who is walking by is very scary for that person. Many<br />

children are afraid of animals and become frightened, which could<br />

result in the child getting hurt trying to avoid the animal.<br />

Harris County Animal Control advises, “All dogs and cats must be<br />

kept under restraint while in the unincorporated areas of Harris<br />

County, Texas. The custodian of a dog or cat is not authorized to<br />

have, harbor or keep any unlicensed dog or cat nor to allow any<br />

dog or cat to become a stray.”<br />

Restraint is defined as “the control of a dog or cat under the following<br />

circumstances:<br />

1. When it is controlled by a line or leash not more than six (6) feet in<br />

length, if the line or leash is held by a human being, who is capable<br />

of controlling or governing the dog or cat in question<br />

2. When it is within a fully enclosed vehicle<br />

3. When it is on the premise of the custodian and the animal does<br />

not have access to sidewalk or street.”<br />

While it may be nice to have your animal out in the yard while you<br />

work or play, it is against the law, unless the animal is properly<br />

restrained.<br />

Let’s all help keep our community a safe and comfortable place for<br />

all our residents by being responsible pet owners. This will not only<br />

protect anyone who may be walking or bicycling in the area, but also<br />

the pet owner who could be held legally responsible or possibly sued<br />

for failing to properly restrain their pet.<br />

Please remember that cats fall under the same laws as dogs and<br />

must be licensed and kept restrained when not on the premises of<br />

the owner. We’ve been told that spreading moth balls in flower beds<br />

might keep cats away.<br />

To make a complaint or report an animal that is not properly<br />

restrained please contact:<br />

Harris County Precinct #5, Contract #87:<br />

281-463-6666<br />

Harris County Animal Control: 281-999-3191<br />

Harris County Health Department,<br />

Rabies/Animal Control Section<br />

2223 West Loop South, Houston,<br />

Texas 77027-3588<br />

www.countypets.com<br />

VETERINARY PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION<br />

(Formerly called Harris County Animal Control)<br />

The Veterinary Public Health Division posts photos of all animals<br />

found on their website and updates it twice daily. If you have lost<br />

your pet, please check this website, www.hcphes.org/vph.<br />

Have you lost a pet?<br />

Start your search immediately,<br />

don’t wait to make flyers.<br />

Contact all possible animal control or animal welfare agencies in<br />

the area. Visit each location at least every other day.<br />

Call your pet’s veterinarian and the microchip company to make<br />

sure they have current contact information for you. A citizen may try<br />

to call the veterinarian’s office or microchip company themselves<br />

from your pet’s tags.<br />

Call all the veterinarians in your area to alert them to the description<br />

of your lost pet in case someone brings it to their clinic.<br />

Check with your neighbors, especially families with children and<br />

ask if they’ve seen a pet that looks like yours.<br />

Search your neighborhood on foot, your pet maybe be nearby but<br />

is injured and unable to get back home.<br />

Leave a towel or article of clothing with your scent on it outside of<br />

your home. Your pet may be disorientated and will be attracted<br />

by your scent.<br />

Have you found a pet?<br />

First, think of the animal as lost and not abandoned<br />

and make every effort to reunite the animal to an owner.<br />

Contact the HCPH VPH office by telephone and report<br />

the animal as found.<br />

Bring the animal to the HCPH VPH facility or check<br />

with a local veterinarian to scan the animal for a microchip.<br />

Return to the place where you found the animal and put up<br />

a found pet poster near that location.<br />

If you find the owner, especially off a newspaper or website posting,<br />

ask them to provide a picture of the animal and meet in a public<br />

place like a police station.<br />

More information about Microchips<br />

& Microchip companies<br />

A microchip is a small device (size of a grain of rice) that is<br />

permanent and implanted with a needle under the skin of pets.<br />

Pets do not have to be given any pain medication or anesthesia<br />

to implant a microchip.<br />

Microchips are not likely to move or need repair<br />

if implanted correctly.<br />

Microchips, when scanned, show a unique code. The microchip<br />

must be registered with the corresponding microchip manufacture<br />

to record any owner and animal data.<br />

Microchips do not work like GPS locators or LoJack<br />

and cannot give a signal to find the location of your lost pet.<br />

SOURCE<br />

Harris county Public Health Department, Veterinary Public Health<br />

(formerly called Harris County Animal Control), 612 Canino Road,<br />

Houston, Texas 77076, 281-999-3191, www.hcphes.org/vph.<br />

36 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


Recipes<br />

PEANUT CLUSTERS<br />

You could make this on National Peanut Cluster Day <strong>March</strong> 8 th !<br />

INGREDIENTS:<br />

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips<br />

1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk<br />

1 cup roasted peanuts<br />

2 cups crispy rice cereal<br />

DIRECTIONS:<br />

In a medium heat-proof bowl, melt together the chocolate chips and condensed<br />

milk in the microwave. Stir frequently until melted and smooth. Stir<br />

in the peanuts and rice cereal until well blended. Drop by rounded spoonfuls<br />

onto waxed paper. Chill 2 hours to set.<br />

HOT FRUIT COMPOTE<br />

You could make this on National Fruit Compote Day <strong>March</strong> 1 st !<br />

INGREDIENTS:<br />

1 (16 ounce) can pears in juice<br />

1 (15 ounce) can peaches in juice<br />

1 (15 ounce) can pitted cherries in water<br />

1 cup quick-cooking oats<br />

1/2 cup brown sugar, divided<br />

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />

2 tablespoons butter, cut in small pieces<br />

DIRECTIONS:<br />

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch<br />

baking dish. Pour pears, peaches and cherries with their liquids into the<br />

prepared baking dish, stir.<br />

Stir oats and 1/4 cup brown sugar together in a bowl, sprinkle over the fruit<br />

mixture. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar over the oat layer. Sprinkle<br />

cinnamon over the brown sugar. Arrange butter pieces evenly over the<br />

top. Bake until hot, bubbly and slightly brown at edges, about 20 minutes.<br />

Serve over waffles, pancakes, scones or shortbread.<br />

Also great served warm over vanilla ice cream!<br />

Source: allrecipes.com<br />

• Interior/Exterior Painting<br />

• Custom Texture<br />

• HARDI Plank® Installation<br />

• Varnish & Stain Finishes<br />

• Gutter Repair & Installation • Paint Kitchen Cabinets<br />

• Door Replacement & Refinish • Wallpaper Removal<br />

Complete<br />

• Power Washing<br />

• Garage Floor Epoxy<br />

Exterior<br />

• Fence Repair & Installation • Wood Replacement<br />

Painting<br />

Jobs over $1300<br />

• Sheetrock Repair & Installation<br />

Special Discounts for Veterans, Military, Teachers and First Responders<br />

PAINTING KATY ONE HOME AT A TIME!<br />

30+ Years Experience ² Commercial/Residential ² Insured<br />

References Upon Request ² 2 Year Warranty ² Accept All Major Credit Cards<br />

CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE<br />

281-781-6713 | katypropr@gmail.com<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

10 % OFF<br />

BLUEBERRY POPOVERS<br />

You could make this on National Blueberry Popover Day <strong>March</strong> 10 th !<br />

INGREDIENTS:<br />

3 tablespoons butter, cut into 6 equal-sized pieces<br />

1 cup whole milk<br />

3 eggs, beaten<br />

1/4 cup white sugar<br />

1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />

1 cup all-purpose flour<br />

1/2 cup fresh blueberries<br />

1 tablespoon white sugar<br />

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />

1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, or to taste<br />

1 lemon, halved<br />

DIRECTIONS:<br />

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Put a piece of butter into<br />

each of 6 large muffin cups. Put muffin tin in preheated oven until butter<br />

melts, about 5 minutes. Set aside.<br />

Beat milk, eggs, 1/4 cup sugar and vanilla together in a large bowl. Whisk<br />

flour into the milk mixture until you have a batter. Divide batter between<br />

muffin cups. Drop even amounts of blueberries into each batter portion.<br />

Stir 1 tablespoon sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl, sprinkle<br />

evenly over the batter portions.<br />

Bake in preheated oven for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees F (175<br />

degrees C) and continue baking until popovers are no longer moist in<br />

the center, about 25 minutes. Dust tops of popovers with confectioners’<br />

sugar. Squeeze lemon juice over popovers. Serve warm.<br />

LICENSED<br />

HEAT<br />

FREE 1st lb. Freon (R410 only)<br />

1/2 Priced Condenser Coil Cleaning<br />

1 Yr. Warranty On Parts Changed<br />

We Value Your Business<br />

All Brands Serviced<br />

Local Neighborhood Company<br />

Fast Personalized Service<br />

We Will Heat & Cool Your Castle!<br />

TACLB021058E<br />

INSURED<br />

COOL<br />

37


obviously a very good thing. In restaurants we can only assume what’s<br />

in our food, but don’t Plus, you have no idea if the cook washed their<br />

hands after that last visit to the restroom.<br />

• Calculate the real cost: the price of one take out meal is typically the<br />

cost of almost a week of groceries. Your groceries will last you a week<br />

or longer. Your take out meal - ONE OR TWO DAYS.<br />

From: https://andthenwesaved.com/eat-at-home-more/<br />

QUICK TRICKS TO EAT AT HOME MORE!<br />

Eating out is easy, fun and quick, but if you find yourself indulging a bit<br />

too much, you may be pushing your wallet and your waistline to the<br />

limit. Here are some quick tricks to get yourself to eat at home more.<br />

• Don’t let yourself get too hungry or tired: Be sure to take an actual<br />

lunch break and eat snacks throughout the day if you need to. Also,<br />

resist the urge to stay up late, so you get all the sleep your body requires.<br />

• Plan ahead: Pre-planning your meals for the week doesn’t take long<br />

and it makes a huge difference with how much time and money you<br />

can save by doing so. There are many meal prep options available, too!<br />

WHAT TO BUY IN MARCH!<br />

<strong>March</strong> is upon us and with it comes the promise of spring and the<br />

year’s greenest holiday. <strong>March</strong> also means steep savings on select<br />

items, which are often at their lowest prices of the year. Here are the<br />

best things to buy in <strong>March</strong>:<br />

• Sandals and gardening clogs<br />

• Patio furniture<br />

• Golf equipment<br />

• Portable space heaters<br />

• Jewelry<br />

• Pre-ordered Easter items<br />

• Frozen food<br />

From: https://www.bradsdeals.com/blog/best-march-deals<br />

• Make it easy: choose foods that are quick and easy to chop, like<br />

squashes, mushrooms, celery and meat items that are in smaller pieces.<br />

Use the OVEN! Broiling vegetables takes only 20 minutes, set your meat<br />

dishes in and within 45 minutes all is ready and baked potatoes set at<br />

450 degrees F for one-hour is an instant and healthy meal<br />

• Remind yourself how much healthier eating at home is: When you<br />

cook at home you know everything that goes into your food and that is<br />

Whether you need advertising, printed materials, branded merchandise,<br />

a website or other marketing for your business...<br />

We Have The Solution For Your Business!<br />

Krenek Printing<br />

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTERS<br />

LLC<br />

SERVICES:<br />

Advertising • Layout Design<br />

Printing Services<br />

Flyers • Brochures • Pamphlets<br />

Newsletters • Postcards • Envelopes<br />

Mailing Services<br />

Direct (EDDM) • Bulk • First Class<br />

Branded Merchandise • Marketing Services<br />

YOUR AD COULD<br />

BE HERE!<br />

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

38 <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter


Easter Sunday<br />

April 1st<br />

LIVING WORD TO PRESENT<br />

“The Lamb: Redemption’s Price is Paid”<br />

Living Word invites the Katy community to its presentation of<br />

“The Lamb: Redemption’s Price is Paid” on Sunday, <strong>March</strong> 25 th<br />

at 8 AM, 9:30 AM and 11 AM. The cantata, by Jay Rouse and Rose<br />

Aspinall, traces the last days of Jesus from his triumphal entry on<br />

Palm Sunday through his sacrifice on the cross to redeem us. The<br />

Living Word Choir will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra.<br />

Living Word is located at 3700 S. Mason Rd. in Katy. For more information,<br />

please visit www.livingwordkaty.org or call the church<br />

office at 281-392-2300.<br />

KATY CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONNECTION (KCWC)<br />

KCWC is part of Stonecroft, a ministry for women which provides<br />

Bible Studies, Prayer Connections and fellowship luncheons around<br />

the US. Katy Christian Women also sponsors monthly Prayer Coffees.<br />

These are held on the second Thursday of each month. New<br />

Bible Studies started in January. Please visit our website at<br />

Katycwc.org for locations or call Janet Collins at 281-762-8252.<br />

For more information or to RSVP for the luncheon, please<br />

email Nancy at Katycwc@gmail.com or call 281-232-8338.<br />

KATY WOMEN’S AGLOW<br />

Katy Women’s Aglow, a part of Aglow International, is a local, spirit-filled<br />

women’s ministry fellowship. We meet monthly, usually on<br />

the fourth Saturday 10-11:30 AM. We come together for fellowship,<br />

to worship and to hear inspirational speakers and testimonies, as<br />

well as for special events. Katy Women’s Aglow is a great place to<br />

make new friends! View our website for information about current<br />

Bible studies. Prayer meetings, special events and speaker biographies,<br />

www.katyaglow.com.<br />

Hope Impacts Bible studies<br />

Mondays at the Bagel Café 7-8:30 PM. Bible Study includes dinner.<br />

Located 631 S Mason Rd, Katy, TX 77450<br />

Thursdays 12-1:30 PM, Ladies Discovery Bible Study and lunch on the<br />

first 3 weeks of the month. Hope Impacts office is located at 802 Dominion<br />

Suite 300, Katy, TX 77450. Registration is required and onsite<br />

childcare provided upon advance request. Minimum participation 2,<br />

Maximum 10. Questions call 713-705-7884 ask for Marilyn or Tina.<br />

PROPHETIC BIBLE STUDY FROM THE TORAH<br />

Prophetic Bible Study from the Torah starting with Leviticus chapter<br />

23, “the feasts of the Lord,” using authentic Hebrew Scrolls and the<br />

New Testament. The lessons are in English, Chinese and partially<br />

finished in the Russian language. Lessons are web based until a<br />

group study is formed in Katy http://scrolls4all.org.<br />

Contact: Gary Zimmerman scrolls4all.org@gmail.com.<br />

Community Newsletter | <strong>March</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH<br />

Senior Adult News<br />

Trinity Baptist Church Senior Adults get together on Monday<br />

afternoons from 1-4 PM for a time of fellowship, prayer and games...<br />

Come join the fun!<br />

Trinity Baptist Church is located at 10000 Spring Green Blvd.<br />

(corner of Spring Green and Fry). For more information, visit<br />

www.trinity-katy.org or call the church office at 281-579-6724.<br />

AREA BINGOS<br />

EPIPHANY BINGO<br />

Epiphany conducts their bingo games every Friday night except<br />

holidays. THERE IS NO SMOKING ALLOWED DURING ALL BINGO<br />

GAMES. They have security, lighted parking, big screen color monitor,<br />

computerized bingo equipment, snack bar and large cash<br />

prizes. Profits benefit charitable outreach programs. Epiphany<br />

Catholic Church, Church Community Center, 1530 Norwalk Dr.<br />

(between Fry and Mason Roads, south of I-10 behind Nottingham<br />

Subdivision) off Highland Knolls. Early bird games begin at 7:30<br />

PM and regular games at 8 PM. For more info, call the bingo hall<br />

number at 281-578-3905.<br />

ST. BARTHOLOMEW THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC CHURCH BINGO<br />

At St. Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church in downtown Katy,<br />

“BINGO” is being played in our Parish Hall every Friday evening<br />

except Holidays. Doors open at 7 PM, games start at 7:15 PM with<br />

four Early Bird games. Regular games start at 7:30 PM. All profits will<br />

benefit community outreach and Religious Education programs.<br />

The Church is located in downtown Katy at 5356 Eleventh St. You<br />

can get to the church if traveling west on Hwy. 90 to Katyland Rd.<br />

Turn right at the light, go to the second stop sign (at the stadium)<br />

Eleventh St., turn left and the Church Hall will be on your right one<br />

block down. For more info., call 281-391-4758.<br />

SAINT EDITH STEIN CATHOLIC CHURCH<br />

Friday Night Bingo<br />

Friday night BINGO is held the first Friday of February, May, June<br />

and August. This will be a fun evening for the entire family. Everyone<br />

can play including children. We offer a smoke and alcohol free<br />

environment. Cash prizes awarded for Regular BINGO and Special<br />

Games will range from $15 to $100. Snacks and refreshments will<br />

also be available. Doors open at 6:30 PM for BINGO card presales.<br />

Early Bird BINGO starts at 7 PM, Regular BINGO starts at 7:30 PM.<br />

All BINGO events at Saint Edith Stein Catholic Church are operated<br />

under a license issued by the Texas Lottery Commission. Location:<br />

Carmel Hall, Saint Edith Stein Catholic Church, 3311 N. Fry Road,<br />

Katy, TX 77449.<br />

39

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!