Williamsburg Settlement December 2018
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WILLIAMSBURG SETTLEMENT<br />
COMMUNITY NEWS<br />
Online Newsletter published by Krenek Printing Co.<br />
<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
Important Numbers pg.3<br />
Katy ISD Info<br />
pg.10<br />
<strong>December</strong> Events<br />
pg.14<br />
Houston Events<br />
pg.16<br />
Library News<br />
pg.18<br />
Kids Korner<br />
pg.21<br />
Recipes<br />
pg.28<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!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!<br />
Can it really be Christmas time again? I know that for the youngsters it can’t get here soon enough, but for many of us the secular aspects of<br />
Christmas present a challenge. The questions of what is the right gift for each person on our list are eternal - and perhaps more importantly -<br />
how do we pay for them (as well as our year-end taxes and annual maintenance fees!) BUT Christmas is also a good time of the year to reflect<br />
on the many blessings that we enjoy in this great country of ours, to share what we can, with those less fortunate and each in our own way to<br />
give thanks for what we have and too easily take for granted.<br />
Christmas is a time to be home with or to visit family, but whether you are staying home for the holiday or plan to travel, have fun, but take<br />
care. Remember there is a whole new year waiting for us. Make sure that you and your loved ones are around to enjoy it!<br />
Your Board of Directors would like to wish all our residents a safe and very happy holiday.<br />
President Chris Cox 832-413-2432<br />
Community Events Chairperson<br />
Vice President Ed Shipley 281-347-0233<br />
Architectural Review Chairperson and Signs<br />
Secretary/Treasurer Dave Ellis 281-347-2580<br />
Communications (Webmaster/Newsletter),<br />
Elec Repairs, Keys ,Clubhouse & Pool Rental<br />
and Maintenance<br />
Director Jim Calvert 281-380-8628<br />
Deed Restrictions and Yard of the Month<br />
Director CO Holt 281-347-8702<br />
Security, Perimeter Fence Maintenance and Signs<br />
Director Chase Wier N/A<br />
Assistance with Financial Reports & Insurance tasks<br />
Director Bill Petry 281-347-6465<br />
Landscaping<br />
Welcoming of New Residents Michael Wood 281-795-1206<br />
Jo Wood 281-795-3235<br />
For all other issues, please contact:<br />
CREST MANAGEMENT Switchboard 281-579-0761<br />
Cindy Bojé 281-945-4668<br />
Swim Team Katy Hall 713-569-4530<br />
Ladies Tennis Leagues Karen Mace 281-347-4058<br />
WILLIAMSBURG SETTLEMENT INFO<br />
WILLIAMSBURG SETTLEMENT MAINTENANCE ASSOCIATION<br />
www.wsmaonline.org<br />
UTILITIES<br />
Centerpoint Energy 713-207-2222<br />
Gas Problems 713-659-2111<br />
Reliant Energy 713-207-1111<br />
Street Lights - not working 713-207-2222<br />
Street Repairs 281-463-6300<br />
MUD #61 281-347-8686<br />
MUD #62 281-347-8686<br />
TAXING AUTHORITIES<br />
Harris Co. Appraisal Dist. 713-683-9200<br />
Tax Roll Name Change (MUD #2) 713-462-8906<br />
Waller Co. Appraisal Dist. / KISD Tax 281-391-3188<br />
SCHOOLS<br />
KISD Administration KISD 281-396-6000<br />
Transportation 281-396-7560<br />
Winborn Elem. 281-237-6650<br />
Morton Ranch Jr. High 281-237-7400<br />
Morton Ranch High School 281-237-7800<br />
Katy High School 281-237-6700<br />
IMPORTANT NUMBERS<br />
EMERGENCIES 911<br />
Sheriff Non-Emergency Dispatch 713-221-6000<br />
HCESD-48 Fire Dept. (Information Calls) 281-599-8888<br />
Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital 281-644-7000<br />
Poison Control 800-764-7661<br />
Animal Control 281-999-3191<br />
Harris County Health Dept. 713-526-1841<br />
BOARD MEETINGS • 3rd Tuesday of each month.<br />
NEWSLETTER DEADLINE: submittals to Dave Ellis (dave@daveellis.com) by the 20th of each month
<strong>Williamsburg</strong> <strong>Settlement</strong><br />
NOVEMBER YARD-OF-THE-MONTH<br />
is awarded to Kim and Daphne Jones at 22531 Unicorns Horn.<br />
The Joneses have lived in the <strong>Settlement</strong> since 1985.<br />
They have 2 grown children who both attended Winborn<br />
Elementary. Kim says that having the school so<br />
close to their future home was just one of the many<br />
reasons they decided to choose the <strong>Settlement</strong> in<br />
which to raise their family.<br />
Kim and Daphne’s yard is well maintained from the<br />
street to the front of their home. The curved flowerbeds<br />
consist of a variety of bedding plants which<br />
include lantana, agapanthus, red and purple flowered<br />
pentas, purple liriope grass. Each of the beds along<br />
the front of their home is accented with a Japanese<br />
Jew at the side of their front entryway and a crepe<br />
myrtles at the bed’s outer edge. There are two more<br />
beds surrounding each of their two trees. One bed<br />
contains purple agapanthus, the other asparagus<br />
ferns, variegated ginger, Aztec grass, agapanthus and<br />
plumbago plants. Kim and Daphne’s home is finished<br />
with a huge brick planter box filled with large Boston<br />
ferns which is built within their porte-cochere.<br />
Asked what they still like about the <strong>Settlement</strong> they replied<br />
that it is their friendly neighbors; the <strong>Settlement</strong>’s<br />
great location with its access to the many restaurants,<br />
shopping malls and highways in and out of town; the<br />
peacefulness of the neighborhood and seeing new<br />
families continuing to move into the community.<br />
CHRISTMAS YARD OF THE MONTH<br />
DECORATING CONTEST<br />
One of the good things that Christmas brings us is the opportunity to see and enjoy<br />
the beautiful decorations that many of our residents put up in celebration of the<br />
Christmas Holiday. In accordance with our long tradition we will once again be<br />
holding the Christmas Holiday Yard Contest. As last year, judging will be done by<br />
you, our residents, this year on the weekend of <strong>December</strong> 15 th and 16 th . You will<br />
be invited to cast your votes on an on-line survey for 1 st , 2 nd and 3 rd place winners.<br />
Those receiving the most votes will have the corresponding award signs placed in<br />
their yards where they will remain for the remainder of the month. Photographs of<br />
these yards will also be posted on our website and in the February edition of the<br />
community newsletter. <strong>Williamsburg</strong> <strong>Settlement</strong> is such a beautiful subdivision all<br />
year long and at Christmas our residents really make the neighborhood sparkle.<br />
So, be sure to get your lights and decorations up early and maybe your yard will be<br />
chosen this year!<br />
Thank you Kim and Daphne for adding so much<br />
beauty to our community and congratulations on<br />
being awarded Yard of the Month for November <strong>2018</strong>.<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
3
<strong>Williamsburg</strong> <strong>Settlement</strong><br />
PET ID TAGS<br />
Folks - as soon as the vet gives your young pets<br />
their Rabies shot remember to get their ID tags.<br />
The Rabies tag lists the name, phone number<br />
and address of the vet. So! All you need to do is<br />
put the Rabies tag onto the pet’s collar and leave it there all the time. That<br />
way, if the pet gets loose, anyone finding him or her can look at the tag to<br />
see the vet’s phone number and call to report the lost animal. Better yet,<br />
add another tag to your pet’s collar that lists the dog or cat’s name and your<br />
own phone number or address. You can get these from any pet store. When<br />
a pet has these but goes astray, anyone finding it can call you and you can<br />
go get him or her right away. Your pet will be very glad to see you! A happy<br />
pet is a loving pet.<br />
DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE<br />
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF WILLIAMSBURG SETTLEMENT<br />
MAINTENANCE ASSOCIATION, INC., October 16, <strong>2018</strong><br />
A meeting of the Board of Directors of the <strong>Williamsburg</strong> <strong>Settlement</strong><br />
Maintenance Association, Inc. was held on Tuesday, October 16, <strong>2018</strong><br />
at 5:30 PM at the <strong>Williamsburg</strong> <strong>Settlement</strong> clubhouse, 1602 Hoyt, Katy,<br />
Texas 77449.<br />
ATTENDANCE<br />
Board Members present were: Dave Ellis, Jim Calvert, Ed Shipley, CO<br />
Holt, Chris Cox and Bill Petry.<br />
Chase Wier was absent.<br />
Also, in attendance was Cindy Bojé representing Crest Management,<br />
along with Sheriff Deputy Chad King.<br />
With a quorum being established the meeting was called to order at<br />
5:27 PM.<br />
SECRETARY REPORT - APPROVAL OF MINUTES<br />
The minutes for the September 18, <strong>2018</strong> Board Meeting were presented<br />
and a motion was made, seconded and unanimously carried to accept<br />
the minutes without change.<br />
HOMEOWNER CONCERNS<br />
There was one homeowner present, but he did not express any concerns.<br />
SHERIFF PATROL REPORT<br />
CO Holt, our security liaison and Deputy Chad King reported that there<br />
were no unusual problems during September and our community<br />
continues to enjoy a very low crime rate. A copy of the monthly sheriff<br />
report was included in the meeting packets.<br />
WELCOMING COMMITTEE REPORT<br />
Committee Chairman, Michael Wood was absent but sent a report<br />
via email stating that there was no new activity to report this month.<br />
FINANCIAL REVIEW<br />
Dave Ellis presented a detailed report on the September 30, <strong>2018</strong><br />
financials. As of this date, the money in the bank totaled $618,112.90.<br />
This figure includes checking, money market accounts and CD’s<br />
which are the funds required to cover both operating expenses and<br />
the necessary reserve to fund maintenance and replacement of the<br />
Association’s capital assets. The delinquency total as of September<br />
30, <strong>2018</strong> was $9,188.06.<br />
OLD BUSINESS<br />
Decisions taken by email vote since the last meeting:<br />
a. Approval of Texas Lawn Care quotation for Clearing Perimeter Fence<br />
Vegetation in the amount of $7,500.<br />
b. Approval of JJ Garcia quotation for Trimming Colonial Parkway Trees<br />
in the amount of $2,600.<br />
c. Approval of Champion Landscape Supplies quotation for the replenishment<br />
of the playground Kiddie Cushion in the amount of $1,095.<br />
A motion was made, seconded and unanimously carried to ratify the<br />
items voted on by the Board outside of a Board meeting.<br />
National Night Out Wrap-Up Report<br />
Chris reviewed the National Night Out summary report with the Board.<br />
Overall and despite the rain, it was a successful and well-attended<br />
event.<br />
Status of Approved Projects<br />
Cul-de-sac islands Improvements - Dave reported that the water supplies<br />
to the four cul-de-sac islands included in phase 1 of the MUD 61<br />
re-piping project have been installed which has allowed Texas Lawn<br />
Care to complete its installation of the irrigation systems on these<br />
islands. Once the backflow preventer valves have been tested and the<br />
irrigation systems placed in service the landscaping on these islands<br />
will be installed.<br />
Pool Filter Sand Replacement - The sand in the pool filter has been<br />
replaced by A-Beautiful.<br />
Perimeter Fence Vegetation Clearance - Texas Lawn Care has completed<br />
the removal of the large amount of vegetation bordering the<br />
perimeter fence.<br />
Trimming of WSMA Owned Trees along Colonial Parkway - JJ Garcia<br />
Tree Services has completed the Colonial Parkway tree trimming.<br />
Replenishment of Playground Kiddie Cushion - This will be installed<br />
on October 29 th .<br />
Installation of Sign Indicating Location of Pool Emergency Phone - The<br />
emergency phone signage still needs to be ordered and installed.<br />
NEW BUSINESS<br />
Upcoming Events:<br />
a. October 20 th Garage Sale - Chris stated that so far, 27 homeowners<br />
signed up to participate in the garage sale. In the event that the garage<br />
sale is rained out, this event will be rescheduled to October 27 th .<br />
b. November 10 th Veteran’s Parade - Chris stated that he was still finalizing<br />
the details with the parade marshal and signage, but would like<br />
to distribute 1 st , 2 nd and 3 rd place prizes for the best decorated/patriotic<br />
vehicle, bicycle, pet etc., judging to be by on-line ballot as was used<br />
for last year’s Christmas Yard Decoration contest. Jim Calvert stated<br />
that he will contact the local Boy Scouts troop for the flag ceremony<br />
and their participation in the parade.<br />
Ongoing Control of Vegetation Outside Perimeter Fence<br />
Dave stated that Texas Lawn Care has agreed to add to its monthly<br />
maintenance schedule the ongoing control of vegetation immediately<br />
bordering our perimeter fence for an annual price of $1,800. Dave<br />
stated that this expense was not forecasted in the 2019 budget but is a<br />
justifiable investment to preserving and hence extending the life of the<br />
fence. In 2019, this could be funded from the Operating Reserve and in<br />
subsequent years considered for folding into the landscaping budget.<br />
After a brief discussion, a motion was made, seconded and carried to<br />
approve the proposal at $1,800.<br />
4 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
<strong>Williamsburg</strong> <strong>Settlement</strong><br />
ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION<br />
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was<br />
adjourned into executive session at 6:17 PM.<br />
Delinquencies<br />
Four accounts remain on the trash suspension list.<br />
Deed Restriction Enforcement<br />
Jim Calvert reviewed the Enforcement Action Report with the Board.<br />
After reviewing it, there was no action to be taken at this time.<br />
Attorney Action Report<br />
Jim Calvert reviewed the Attorney Action Report with the Board. After<br />
reviewing it, Jim stated that no further action need be taken at this<br />
time.<br />
ADJOURNMENT<br />
There were no homeowners present to hear a summary of the executive<br />
session. The next meeting will be held on November 20, <strong>2018</strong> at the<br />
community clubhouse.<br />
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was<br />
adjourned at 6:42 PM.<br />
NEXT WSMA BOARD MEETING<br />
As there will be no meeting in <strong>December</strong>, the next meeting of the WSMA<br />
Board of Directors will be held in the clubhouse on Hoyt Lane at 5:30<br />
PM on Tuesday, January 15, 2019. If you wish to be placed on the<br />
agenda, please contact Cindy Bojé of Crest no later than the Tuesday<br />
preceding the meeting date.<br />
WILLIAMSBURG SETTLEMENT SECURITY REPORT<br />
September 1 through September 30, <strong>2018</strong><br />
Type of Incident Number of Incidents<br />
Alarm /local 3<br />
Animal /Humane 4<br />
Check School / Clubhouse 30<br />
Child Custody Dispute 1<br />
Disturbance/Juvenile 1<br />
Disturbance/Noise 4<br />
Disturbance/other 1<br />
Follow-Up 4<br />
Information Calls/Alarms 1<br />
Meet the Citizen 12<br />
Meet the Officer 5<br />
Suspicious Persons 4<br />
Traffic Hazard 1<br />
Traffic Initiative 2<br />
Traffic Stop 1<br />
Vehicle/Suspicious 3<br />
Welfare check 2<br />
911 Calls 1<br />
STREET LIGHT OUTAGES<br />
To report a burned out streetlight, any resident may call CenterPoint<br />
directly at 713-207-2222. However, for those with Internet access, you<br />
may also make this report on-line. For those interested, you can go to<br />
http://cnp.centerpointenergy.com/outage. Then enter your contact<br />
details so that they can get back to you if more information is required.<br />
On the following page enter the details of the light(s) with the problem.<br />
Just as you would if reporting the outage via the telephone, you will<br />
need to provide the street address where the light is located and the<br />
6-digit number that is prominently displayed on the front of the pole.<br />
Under normal circumstances the crew will be out to fix the problem<br />
within 7 working days.<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
Anyone noticing a streetlight that is out or has some other malfunction<br />
is encouraged to report the problem to CenterPoint via either<br />
of these two methods without delay. Our Association is charged for<br />
every streetlight each month, irrespective of whether or not the light<br />
is functioning. So please help us get value for your hard earned money!<br />
WILLIAMSBURG SETTLEMENT CLUBHOUSE AND POOL RENTAL<br />
The Clubhouse is available for rental for non-profit activities to all<br />
residents in good standing with the Association<br />
• The fees are as follows:<br />
BIG ROOM RENTAL FEE:<br />
Up to 49 people - $50<br />
50-100 people - $75<br />
Plus a refundable security deposit:<br />
No alcohol served - $100<br />
Alcohol served or the attendance of 20 or more under<br />
the age of 21 - $200*<br />
SMALL ROOM RENTAL FEE:<br />
Up to 20 people - $30 (Small Room is 17’ X 15’<br />
and rental does not include kitchen)<br />
Plus a refundable security deposit of $50<br />
• *Note that when alcohol is served, two security guards must also be on<br />
duty. The requirement for two is mandated by the Sheriff’s Department.<br />
• The charge for the security guards, which is paid directly to the officers,<br />
is the responsibility of the resident requesting the rental. Also,<br />
if there are more than 20 young people between the ages of 13 and<br />
21 unaccompanied by their family members the Association requires<br />
one responsible adult for every 10 of these young persons to act as<br />
chaperones.<br />
• All deposits refundable upon passing the exit inspection.<br />
POOL RENTAL<br />
The pool is available for private parties during the swim season (only),<br />
subject to the posted pool rules and the following restrictions.<br />
During Pool Hours:<br />
• Only 1 group at a time.<br />
• Parties must be scheduled at least 2 weeks ahead of time using the<br />
Clubhouse Booking Form.<br />
• Parties held during open hours are restricted to 20 or fewer persons<br />
(adults and children) who will be entering the water and do not have<br />
their own pool tags and a total of not more than 60 persons in total<br />
within the pool area.<br />
• Parties that include a total of between 20 and 40 swimmers (i.e. including<br />
those who have their own pool tags) are required to hire one<br />
additional lifeguard.<br />
• Parties that include a total of more than 40 swimmers (i.e. including<br />
those who have their own pool tags) are required to hire two additional<br />
lifeguards.<br />
• The charge for the additional guard(s) will be $26 per hour with a<br />
minimum of 2 hours.<br />
• If at any time the number of swimmers in the water or the number of<br />
persons within the pool area (including regular pool users who are not<br />
members of the party) exceeds the limits that can be safely managed by<br />
the lifeguards on duty then the guards have the authority to ask some<br />
swimmers to leave the water or in extreme cases to close the pool.<br />
• Two responsible adults must be in the pool area at all times acting<br />
as chaperons to ensure the good behavior of all members of the party.<br />
• Party to be over and the area cleaned up by pool closing at 8 PM.<br />
After Hours:<br />
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6 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
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• Parties must be scheduled at least 2 weeks ahead of time.<br />
• Rental Fees: 1-49 people - $50; 50 plus - $75.<br />
• Private pool parties may only be scheduled on days on which the pool<br />
is open. The parties may start at 8 PM and must end, the area cleaned<br />
up and the facility vacated by the scheduled end of the party, either<br />
10 or 11 PM, as selected on the booking form. The lifeguards will clear<br />
the pool 15 minutes prior to end time.<br />
• One responsible adult for every 10 persons under the age of 21 must<br />
be in the pool area at all times acting as chaperones to ensure the good<br />
behavior of all members of the party.<br />
• Lifeguards will be booked by the Association from the pool management<br />
company. There will be a minimum of 2 lifeguards plus an additional<br />
guard for every 25 persons in excess of 50 who will be entering<br />
the pool. The per-lifeguard hourly fee is $26.<br />
• The cost for the lifeguards will be added to the rental fee and will<br />
be payable by the renter to the Association at the time the booking<br />
is confirmed.<br />
• A $150 refundable deposit is required.<br />
For clubhouse and pool availability, refer to the Clubhouse Bookings<br />
page of the Association website www.wsmaonline.org and then to<br />
make a reservation, please complete the pool entries on the on-line<br />
Clubhouse Booking Form.<br />
If you need further information, call Dave Ellis at 281-347-2580.<br />
VETERINARY PUBLIC HEALTH 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 at<br />
someone who is walking by is very scary for that person. Many children<br />
are afraid of animals and become frightened, which could result in the<br />
child getting hurt trying to avoid the animal.<br />
Veterinary Public Health (formerly called Harris County Animal Control)<br />
advises that, “All dogs and cats must be kept under restraint while in<br />
the unincorporated areas of Harris County, Texas. The custodian of a<br />
dog or cat is not authorized to have, harbor or keep any unlicensed dog<br />
or cat or to allow any 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 then six (6) feet in<br />
length, if the line or leash is held by a human being who is capable of<br />
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 not<br />
have access to sidewalk to street.<br />
While it may be nice to have your animal out in the yard while you work<br />
or play, it is against the law, unless the animal is properly 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 />
KATY AREA PLAYGROUP<br />
A Katy area playgroup for stay at home moms and their infant-preschool<br />
aged children in the <strong>Williamsburg</strong> area meets<br />
every Monday at different locations. If you interested in participating<br />
or finding out more about the playgroup, please contact<br />
the playgroup coordinator, Laura Bannerman, at llbannerman@<br />
gmail.com. Please share this information with neighbors and<br />
friends!<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
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CHOOSING THE BEST POINSETTIAS<br />
Despite holding the official<br />
title of most popular<br />
potted plant, the familiar<br />
poinsettia remains<br />
full of surprises. Native<br />
to the hillsides of western<br />
Mexico, where they<br />
grow wild as shrub like<br />
plants reaching fifteen<br />
feet tall, poinsettias - after<br />
decades of breeding<br />
- have been transformed<br />
into the colorful compact<br />
houseplants that<br />
are ubiquitous during<br />
the holidays. The brightly<br />
colored “flowers” of<br />
the poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) are actually petal-like leaves,<br />
called bracts - the true flowers are the tiny beadlike yellow and green<br />
parts, called cyathia, at the center of the bracts. Unlike many flowering<br />
plants, which require long, sunny days to induce flowering, poinsettias<br />
produce their colorful bracts as the nights lengthen.<br />
Selecting Plants<br />
Once available only in red, poinsettias now come in a range of colors<br />
that includes pink, peach, yellow and white. Some cultivars have marbled<br />
or speckled bracts while others have wavy or ruffled bracts that<br />
resemble pompoms.<br />
For healthy, long-blooming plants, choose poinsettias with tightly<br />
grouped cyathia at the tips of the stems and bracts that are fully colored<br />
(bracts that are greenish around the edges will never color fully). Unless<br />
you’re purchasing poinsettia topiaries, which are trained to resemble<br />
trees, select sturdy plants with stiff stems and lush green leaves all the<br />
way to the soil.<br />
Poinsettia Care<br />
In winter, during their bloom time, keep poinsettias in bright but indirect<br />
light (6 to 8 hours of filtered sun daily) and away from drafts and<br />
heaters, which can cause the leaves to drop.<br />
Plants thrive at room temperatures during the day (60°F-75°F) and prefer<br />
slightly cooler nights (60°F-65°F). Poinsettias are very cold sensitive,<br />
so keep them away from chilly windows. Water plants only when the<br />
soil is dry.<br />
In spring, after the bracts become a muddy green, cut the plants back to<br />
about 6 to 8 inches tall; continue watering and begin fertilizing biweekly<br />
with a balanced all-purpose fertilizer for flowering plants.<br />
In summer, repot plants in fresh soilless potting mix in slightly larger<br />
pots and move outdoors if desired to a spot with morning sun. Continue<br />
watering and biweekly fertilizing. Prune plants to encourage a bushy,<br />
compact habit.<br />
Encouraging Re-bloom<br />
Making poinsettias re-bloom is a challenge. To induce flowering in time<br />
for the holidays, continue watering plants but stop fertilizing in early<br />
fall. Beginning on October 1st, move the plants to an absolutely dark<br />
room or closet each night or place them under a box so they receive<br />
at least 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness per day-even light from<br />
a lamp can disrupt the flowering. Depending on the cultivar, colorful<br />
bracts should develop in 6 to 10 weeks.<br />
from Krenek Printing Co.<br />
8 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
CHRISTMAS TREE TIPS<br />
For many people, decorating the Christmas<br />
tree is a favorite part of the holiday. The National<br />
Safety Council offers some safety tips<br />
to make sure a mishap doesn’t spoil your<br />
holiday season.<br />
CHRISTMAS TREES<br />
A real tree can add to the spirit of Christmas<br />
by filling your home with beauty and the<br />
scent of pine. But a real tree can also pose<br />
a fire hazard. Between 2011-2015, U.S. fire<br />
departments responded to an average 200<br />
home fires that started with Christmas trees<br />
per year. These fires caused an average of 6<br />
deaths, 16 injuries and $14.8 million in direct property damage annually.<br />
Try to select a fresh tree by looking for one that is green. The needles<br />
of pines and spruces should bend and not break and should be hard to<br />
pull off the branches. On fir species, a needle pulled from a fresh tree<br />
will snap when bent, much like a fresh carrot. Also, look for a trunk<br />
sticky with sap. Cut off about two inches of the trunk and put the tree<br />
in a sturdy, water-holding stand. Keep the stand filled with water so the<br />
tree does not dry out quickly.<br />
Stand your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources.<br />
Make sure the tree does not block foot traffic or doorways.<br />
If you use an artificial tree, choose one that tested and labeled as<br />
fire resistant. Artificial trees with built-in electrical systems should<br />
have the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label.<br />
TREE LIGHTS<br />
Only use indoor lights indoors (and outdoor lights only outdoors). Look<br />
for the UL label. Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed<br />
or bare wires or loose connections. Replace or repair any damaged<br />
light sets.<br />
Also, use no more than three light sets on any one extension cord.<br />
Extension cords should be placed against the wall to avoid tripping<br />
hazards, but do not run cords under rugs. Turn off all lights on trees<br />
and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house.<br />
TREE ORNAMENTS<br />
• Always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places.<br />
• Read labels before you use materials that come in jars,<br />
cans and spray cans.<br />
• Never place lighted candles on a tree or near any<br />
flammable materials.<br />
• Avoid placing breakable tree ornaments or ones with small,<br />
detachable parts on lower branches where small children<br />
or pets can reach them.<br />
• Do not hang popcorn chains and candy canes on the tree when<br />
small children are present. They may think that other tree<br />
ornaments are also edible.<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 />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
9
School News<br />
WWW.KATYISD.ORG<br />
IMPORTANT DATES<br />
<strong>December</strong> 21 st - Early Dismissal - End of Semester<br />
<strong>December</strong> 24 th - January 4 th - Winter Break - Holiday - Students and Staff<br />
January 7 th - Teacher Preparation Day<br />
January 8 th - First Day of Spring Semester<br />
Featured photo - CRHS Orchestra (see article)<br />
Katy Isd Announces Screening Deadline<br />
For Gifted & Talented Students<br />
Katy ISD students in grades 1-4 and 6-11 can be referred for screening<br />
for the 2019-2020 gifted and talented program. Parents must complete<br />
a Parent Checklist which can be obtained from the student’s school or<br />
from the Katy ISD website.<br />
The deadline for completing and returning the Parent Checklist is<br />
<strong>December</strong> 5, <strong>2018</strong>. Checklists which are not returned by the deadline<br />
will not be screened for service for the 2019-2020 school year. The<br />
State of Texas requires that various types of measures be used to<br />
identify students for gifted programs which includes observations and<br />
standardized tests. The program for elementary students consists of a<br />
one-day pullout in the Challenge classroom with a teacher trained in<br />
gifted education. Secondary GT students are clustered and served in<br />
Pre AP and AP classes. Transfer students who were screened in Fall <strong>2018</strong><br />
must wait one full academic year before they can be rescreened. Parents<br />
may contact campus counselors, elementary Challenge teachers or G/T<br />
facilitators if they have additional questions. They can visit the Katy ISD<br />
GT and Advanced Academics webpage for more information.<br />
Katy ISD’S Partners In<br />
Education Kicks Off 17Th Annual<br />
Food For Families Campaign<br />
Katy ISD’s Partners in Education is inviting the community to support<br />
families in need this holiday season. Food for Families is an annual<br />
campaign that provides grocery gift cards to Katy ISD students and their<br />
families. Every Katy ISD campus identifies students in need of assistance<br />
and gift cards are given to those students before winter break. Last year,<br />
Food for Families helped 676 families. Since its inception in 2002, this<br />
initiative has raised over $190,000 helping over 4,000 families have a<br />
happier holiday. Donations of any amount are welcome and appreciated.<br />
Those interested in helping a Katy ISD family in need this holiday season,<br />
should donate by <strong>December</strong> 7 th . Contributions are accepted online or via<br />
check, remitted to “Katy ISD Food for Families” and mailed to Partners<br />
in Education, Katy ISD ESC, 6301 South Stadium Lane, Katy 77494. Food<br />
for Families, a Katy ISD Partners in Education yearly initiative, unites<br />
our Katy ISD staff and community in holiday support for select students<br />
and their families. To learn more, visit Partners in Education under the<br />
“Community” tab at www.katyisd.org or contact Tammy Stringer, 281-<br />
396-2645, tammyrstringer@katyisd.org.<br />
Cinco Ranch High School<br />
Orchestra Winter Concert<br />
Include this FREE Concert in your holiday plans! The Cinco Ranch High<br />
School Orchestra will be performing holiday music, including selections<br />
from “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” such as Mendelson and Guaraldi’s<br />
lovely “Christmas Time is Here.’ The Winter Concert will take place<br />
Thursday <strong>December</strong> 13, <strong>2018</strong> at 7 PM at the Performing Arts Center<br />
(PAC) at 23440 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of<br />
these talented students. Invite your friends and family! (Photo above)<br />
Tompkins Theatre Co.<br />
Presents<br />
“Once On This Island”<br />
Once On This Island is the universal tale of Ti Moune<br />
a fearless peasant girl in search of her place in<br />
the world and ready to risk it all for love. Guided<br />
by the mighty island gods, Ti Moune sets out on a<br />
remarkable journey to reunite with the man who<br />
has captured her heart. The performance will be held at Tompkins High<br />
School Performing Arts Center, 4400 Falcon Landing Blvd, Katy, TX 77494.<br />
Dates and Times: January 31 st & February 1 st at 7 PM<br />
February 2 nd at 2 PM & 7 PM<br />
Tickets: Students $12 and Adults $15. Reserved Seating tickets go on sale<br />
January 17 th at www.TompkinsTheatre.com. General Admission Seating<br />
tickets sold at the door prior to each performance. If you need assistance,<br />
you can email tompkinsboxoffice@gmail.com.<br />
Katy ISD Art Students Earn Over<br />
$20,000 County Fair Art Auction<br />
Twelve of the 20 pieces of artwork auctioned off at the Fort Bend County<br />
Fair Event were created by Katy Independent School District students,<br />
earning a cumulative total of over $20,000 this year. Seven Lakes High<br />
School student Flora Hu’s creation entitled A Cowboy’s Bestfriend won<br />
the Reserve Grand Champion recognition while four additional students<br />
were ranked the highest in Best of Class. “It is inspiring to see the hard<br />
work our Katy ISD students put into these masterpieces and ultimately<br />
it’s so rewarding to see their smiles when they are recognized,” said<br />
Assistant Director of Fine Arts Mitzi Jones. “Each piece has a stunning<br />
story attached to it which brings their art to life,” added Jones. Students<br />
with their art are featured on the next page.<br />
10 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
Katy ISD Art<br />
Students<br />
Take classes close to home<br />
right here in Katy<br />
at Houston Community College - Katy Campus<br />
Reserve Grand Champion<br />
Flora Hu<br />
Seven Lakes High School -<br />
“A Cowboy’s Bestfriend”<br />
Register today at www.hccs.edu<br />
call us at 713.718.8558<br />
or drop in and visit us at 1550 Foxlake Dr., Houston<br />
We’re here Monday through Friday to get you<br />
on your way to a college degree,<br />
Academic courses transfer to<br />
four-year universities.<br />
Best of Class<br />
Fabiana Muñoz<br />
Cinco Ranch High School<br />
“A Texas Hindrance”<br />
N. Fry Rd.<br />
Foxlake Dr.<br />
Katy Fwy<br />
Park Row<br />
HCC<br />
1550 Foxlake Dr.<br />
Greenhouse<br />
Best of Class<br />
Lauren Gray<br />
Tompkins High School<br />
“American Rodeo Royalty”<br />
Best of Class<br />
Rachel Wang<br />
Seven Lakes High School<br />
“Strumming Along”<br />
Best of Class<br />
Lauren Tomalty<br />
Seven Lakes High School<br />
“Texas Prairie”<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
11
Making Your Holidays Bright!<br />
• Additional Plugs & Outlets<br />
• Panel Upgrade/Replacement<br />
• Smoke Detectors<br />
• Troubleshooting<br />
• TV Mounting<br />
Licensed & Insured<br />
Family Owned & Operated • Residential & Commercial<br />
713-467-1125 | wiredes.com<br />
TECL 22809 & Master 100394<br />
ST. JOHN XXIII COLLEGE<br />
PREPARATORY COMMENDED<br />
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS<br />
Mr. Tim Gallic, Principal of St. John XXIII<br />
College Preparatory, Katy, Texas, is<br />
pleased to announce Caitlyn Cano and<br />
Elena Welsh have been named Commended<br />
Students in the 2019 National<br />
Merit Scholarship Program. A Letter of<br />
Commendation from the school and<br />
National Merit Scholarship Corporation<br />
(NMSC), that conducts the program, will<br />
be presented to these scholastically talented<br />
seniors. These young ladies have<br />
demonstrated outstanding potential<br />
throughout their high school years at<br />
St. John XXIII College Preparatory, a<br />
competitive, co-ed, Catholic high school.<br />
Nationwide, nearly 34,000 commended<br />
students are being recognized for<br />
their exceptional academic promise.<br />
Although they will not continue in the<br />
2019 competition for National Merit<br />
Scholarship Finalist standing, commended<br />
students place among the top<br />
50,000 scorers of more than 1.6 million<br />
students who entered the 2019 competition<br />
by taking the 2017 Preliminary SAT/<br />
National Merit Scholarship Qualifying<br />
Test (PSAT/NMSQT).<br />
Karen Thornton, Andrea Duhon, May Dell Jenks, Earlene Hopkins, John Zerwas,<br />
Mike Schofield, Marsha Smith, Valeree Swanson, Mike Collier, Rita Lucido,<br />
John “Hawk” Hawkins, Meghan Scoggins, Gina Calanni, Dorsey Reese.<br />
Photo: Courtesy of Sue Perez<br />
KARE HOSTED POLITICAL FORUM<br />
On October 10 th , Katy Area Retired Educators (K.A.R.E.) held its monthly meeting and hosted a<br />
Political Forum. K.A.R.E. members had an opportunity to hear from candidates, who represent<br />
the areas where most members live, for Lieutenant Governor, Senate District 17, House District<br />
28 and House District 132.<br />
K.A.R.E. meetings are held at 11:30 AM at the Leonard E. Merrell Center, Room 144, located at<br />
the West Entrance. For more information about the Katy Area Retired Educators, check out its<br />
website at www.localunits.org/KARE/.<br />
12 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
THEATER/ARTS<br />
HOUSTON REPERTOIRE BALLET’S 20 TH ANNUAL<br />
PERFORMANCE OF THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC THE NUTCRACKER<br />
Houston Repertoire Ballet (HRB), Houston’s premier pre-professional<br />
ballet company, celebrates its 23 rd season, beginning with its 20 th annual<br />
performance series of The Nutcracker, featuring professional guest artists<br />
Elizabeth Keller as the Sugar Plum Fairy, Andrew Taft as the Cavalier<br />
and Joe Modlin as Herr Drosselmeyer, with the Cypress Philharmonic<br />
directed by Glynnes Lanthier.<br />
Performances will be held on Friday, <strong>December</strong> 7 th at 7 PM - abbreviated<br />
Arts & Education performance perfect for young children with ticket<br />
prices just $12; Saturday, <strong>December</strong> 8 th at 2 PM & 7 PM and Sunday,<br />
<strong>December</strong> 9 th at 1 PM & 4:30 PM at the Tomball High School Theatre,<br />
30330 Quinn Road, Tomball, Texas 77375. For ticket information, call<br />
281-940-HRB1 (4721) or visit www.hrbdance.org. Tickets are $18 for<br />
students/seniors and $23 for adults.<br />
A.D Players at the George Theater<br />
5420 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056<br />
It’s a Wonderful Life, A Live Radio Play-November 30 th -<strong>December</strong> 23 rd<br />
Showtimes are Thursday-Saturday 7:30 PM and Sunday 2 PM.<br />
Box Office: 713-526-2721<br />
Hours: 10 AM-6 PM, Monday-Friday<br />
Dr. Brad McCary, DVM<br />
www.williamsburg-vets.com<br />
MILDRED’S UMBRELLA THEATER CO.<br />
MAINSTAGE SEASON<br />
Chelsea Market Theater, 4617 Montrose Blvd. #100, Houston, TX 77006<br />
CONSENTING BODIES: January 9-13, <strong>2018</strong> - Days and Times TBA<br />
Cost: All Shows Pay What You Can<br />
MORE INFO/RESERVATIONS: www.mildredsumbrella.com,<br />
info@mildredsumbrella.com or 832-463-0409.<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 />
STAGEWORKS THEATRE<br />
A CHRISTMAS CAROL: November 11-Devember 16, <strong>2018</strong><br />
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM<br />
Sunday matinees at 3 PM<br />
Stageworks Theatre is located at 10760 Grant Road,<br />
Houston, Texas 77070. Website: www.stageworkshouston.org.<br />
HOUSTON CHORAL SOCIETY<br />
A GLORIOUS CHRISTMAS - Saturday, <strong>December</strong> 1, <strong>2018</strong> (7:30 PM) at<br />
Foundry United Methodist Church, 8350 Jones Rd., Houston, TX 77065.<br />
There will be audience caroling and a special visit by Santa Claus!<br />
Pre-concert presentation will be at 7 PM and a silent auction during<br />
intermission; a reception follows this concert.<br />
HANDEL’S MESSIAH - Friday, <strong>December</strong> 21, <strong>2018</strong> (7:30 PM) at<br />
Tallowood Baptist Church Chapel, 555 Tallowood Rd, Houston, TX<br />
77024. This is a smaller venue, and tickets are expected to sell out.<br />
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this dramatic oratorio as<br />
a part of your Christmas tradition.<br />
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit the HCS<br />
website at www.houstonchoral.org or call 832-478-6986.<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
13
DECEMBER HappeningS<br />
24 TH ANNUAL<br />
FROSTYFEST CRAFT FAIR<br />
<strong>December</strong> 1, <strong>2018</strong><br />
The 24 th Annual Frostyfest Craft Fair will be<br />
held on <strong>December</strong> 1, <strong>2018</strong>, at Epiphany of the<br />
Lord Catholic Church, 1530 Norwalk Drive, in<br />
Katy, Texas 77450, from 9 AM to 3 PM. There<br />
will be over eighty top Texan vendors selling<br />
HANDCRAFTED merchandise. Santa Claus is<br />
coming to Frostyfest for pictures presented<br />
by Boy Scouts of Katy. Refreshments will be<br />
sold by the Knights of Columbus all day starting<br />
with breakfast tacos. Ladies Club will be<br />
having a bake sale and also a Silent Auction<br />
run by the Craft Club. All proceeds will be<br />
benefitting the new Epiphany Catholic School.<br />
For more information contact Brenda Cason<br />
at 281-346-8009.<br />
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS<br />
The Fulshear Katy Area Chamber of Commerce<br />
and the City of Fulshear presents Fulshear<br />
Festival of Lights on Saturday, <strong>December</strong> 1,<br />
<strong>2018</strong> in Downtown Fulshear from 5 PM to 9<br />
PM. This year’s Festival of Lights Christmas<br />
event will include Santa, Live Music by Jus<br />
Coz, a Live Nativity, Frozen sisters along with a<br />
snowy Children’s activity area with a synthetic<br />
Ice Skating Rink, Vendor Booths and a Parade<br />
all ending with a Fireworks Show.<br />
The event will commence at 5 PM with the<br />
official lighting of the City Christmas Tree,<br />
announcements and a parade float contest.<br />
Event and Parade entry is free. Vendors and<br />
stores will be set up with food, crafts, clothing<br />
and jewelry so you can get some holiday<br />
shopping done!<br />
Santa will arrive during the parade and will<br />
visit the children’s area to hear what everyone<br />
wants for Christmas!<br />
Detour routes and parking information can<br />
be found on the City of Fulshear website at<br />
www.fulsheartexas.gov. If you’d like more<br />
information about this event or to register for<br />
the parade, please contact Amy Norvell amy@<br />
FulshearKaty.com or call 832-600-3221.<br />
FULSHEAR FIND YOUR<br />
FUTURE BREAKFAST<br />
Friday, <strong>December</strong> 7, <strong>2018</strong>, 7:30-9:30 AM<br />
The Fulshear-Katy Area Chamber of Commerce<br />
and NewFirst National Bank are hosting the<br />
Fulshear Find Your Future breakfast at Safari<br />
Texas. The public is invited to attend. Individual<br />
tickets are $35, open seating. Underwriter<br />
sponsorship $1000, Table Sponsorship $500.<br />
For online reservations, www.fulshearkaty.<br />
com or contact Tricia Wright 469-826-3564,<br />
David Melanson 979-541-9297 or<br />
email fulshearfuture@gmail.com.<br />
9 th ANNUAL<br />
“A MERRY CHRISTMAS<br />
COOKIE WALK”<br />
Saturday, <strong>December</strong> 8, <strong>2018</strong><br />
10 AM-1 PM<br />
Family Life Assembly of God,<br />
24911 Roesner Road, Katy, TX 77494<br />
Delicious homemade Christmas cookies for<br />
that special loved one, last minute gift or holiday<br />
gathering. Choose from an assortment of<br />
goodies that will bring a smile to any holiday<br />
celebration. Come early for the best selection.<br />
All sold by the pound. For more information<br />
contact us at flagwomen@flag.church or call<br />
281-392-0637.<br />
15 TH ANNUAL TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL<br />
HOLIDAY HOME TOURS<br />
Tour Seven Elegant, magical homes all decked<br />
out for the holidays. Go to the Events page on<br />
www.thsprojectgrad.com for more information.<br />
Enjoy the spirit of the holidays by touring<br />
the beautifully decorated homes of James E.<br />
Taylor High School’s Holiday Home Tour sponsored<br />
by Taylor’s Class of 2019 Project Grad.<br />
Thursday, <strong>December</strong> 6 th , 5-9 PM<br />
Friday, <strong>December</strong> 7 th , 10 AM-2 PM and 5-9 PM<br />
Pre-sale tickets for the Holiday Home Tour<br />
can be purchased for $15 from Hauerland’s<br />
Purveyors of Fine Goods at 1648 South Mason<br />
Road or the Senior office of James E. Taylor<br />
High School (20700 Kingsland Blvd.). Tickets<br />
will be $20 at the door. Taylor’s Project Grad<br />
provides the senior class a safe year-end celebration<br />
with friends and teachers.<br />
PLEASE JOIN US FOR<br />
‘DINNER WITH PATTON’<br />
If you’ve ever wanted to meet General George<br />
Patton, here’s your chance! OK, yes. He is long<br />
deceased, but world famous re-enactor Denny<br />
Hair does a fine impersonation. He will be in<br />
full regalia for “Dinner with Patton,” which<br />
is being hosted by the Houston Wing of the<br />
Commemorative Air Force. The event, which<br />
is set for 6-10 PM on Friday, <strong>December</strong> 7 th , is<br />
the first fundraiser for a new museum hangar.<br />
The location is Hangar B5 at the West Houston<br />
Airport (18000 Groschke Rd.).<br />
Hair will recite speeches inspired by General<br />
Patton and will answer questions from the<br />
audience about Patton’s life and career. Period<br />
music will be provided by local artist Maria<br />
Thorne. The evening will have a 3-course holiday<br />
themed dinner and there will be a cash<br />
bar with beer and wine. Tickets start at $100;<br />
for more information, please visit<br />
www.houstonwing.org.<br />
WILLOWFORK FIRE DEPARTMENT<br />
“TOYS FOR TOTS”<br />
Willowfork Fire Department is again teaming<br />
with the United States Marine Corps<br />
to sponsor the “Toys for Tots” Drive in the<br />
Katy area. This is the thirteenth year the<br />
Department has participated in this event<br />
and, thanks to the caring and generous<br />
people in the Department’s service area, it<br />
has been an incredible success.<br />
Willowfork Fire Department is only able to<br />
accept donations of new and unwrapped<br />
toys in original packaging for infants<br />
through high school ages or checks made<br />
out to Toys for Tots. Donations may be<br />
brought to all Willowfork locations, Station<br />
1 at 24655 Westheimer Parkway, Station 2<br />
at 26950 Cinco Ranch Blvd or Station 3 at<br />
2700 Spring Green Blvd. in Katy. Groups that<br />
collect a large number of toys can arrange<br />
for pick up by contacting Beth Robinson<br />
at 281-395-0011 Extension 121 or beth.<br />
robinson@willowforkfire.com. The the toy<br />
drive runs through <strong>December</strong> 14 th . Toys can<br />
be dropped off at either Station anytime<br />
between the hours of 10 AM and 7 PM.<br />
CINCO RANCH LADIES CLUB<br />
Our annual Christmas Fundraiser luncheon<br />
benefits CASA this year and is set for Friday,<br />
<strong>December</strong> 14 th , 11 AM-2 PM. Tickets are now<br />
available online at our website,<br />
www.cincoranchladiesclub.org.<br />
The Cinco Ranch Ladies Club (CRLC) is a<br />
501(c)4 providing residents in Katy and surrounding<br />
cities with activities, both social<br />
and charitable. We designate charities each<br />
year as recipients for our fundraising events.<br />
We typically meet each month as an entire<br />
club at The Golf Club at Cinco Ranch at 7 PM<br />
to partake in themed events such as a Chili<br />
Cook Off, Halloween Party, Craft Fairs, Silent<br />
Auction, Line Dancing, Self--Defense Class,<br />
Favorite Things Exchange and Luau.<br />
We also offer about 22 sub-clubs that each<br />
meet once a month on a small scale in residents<br />
homes, businesses, restaurants and<br />
walking trails. $40 annual dues for all the<br />
social and charitable fun.<br />
Instagram:<br />
www.instagram.com/cincoranchladiesclub<br />
Facebook:<br />
www.facebook.com/CincoRanchLadiesClub<br />
14 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
HOLIDAY SUGAR COOKIE TRUFFLES<br />
Here’s an easy crowd pleaser that can be used for any occasion.<br />
The sprinkles are the key to make it festive:)<br />
Ingredients:<br />
● 2 cups / 12 sugar cookies<br />
● 4 Tbs cream cheese room temp<br />
● 2 cups white chocolate melting wafers<br />
● Sprinkles of choice<br />
Method:<br />
1. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper.<br />
2. Place sugar cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs are formed.<br />
3. Add cream cheese and process some more until well combined.<br />
4. Form into small dough balls.<br />
5. Place on parchment paper cookie sheet and put into the freezer<br />
for 20 minutes.<br />
6. While the truffle freezes melt the chocolate according to the package.<br />
7. Remove one truffle at a time dip into the melted chocolate<br />
add sprinkles and repeat for all truffles.<br />
8. Store in airtight container.<br />
HOLIDAY PUNCH<br />
Punch is an absolute must for this joyous season.<br />
This recipe is an easy and delicious<br />
party drink packed with fruits.<br />
Ingredients:<br />
● 1 orange sliced<br />
● 1 cup cranberries<br />
● 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds<br />
● 2 cups cranberry juice<br />
● 2 cups orange juice<br />
● 1 cup pomegranate juice<br />
● 2 cups Sierra Mist / ginger ale<br />
● Rosemary<br />
● Ice<br />
Method:<br />
1. Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher or bowl.<br />
2. Don’t add ice or soda till right before serving.<br />
3. Enjoy.<br />
TOILET PAPER PENGUINS<br />
A fun craft idea to do with kids. These adorable penguins<br />
can also be used as decor for the winter season.<br />
Things you will need:<br />
● Toilet paper roll<br />
● Black paper<br />
● Orange paper<br />
● Scissors<br />
● Glue<br />
● Wiggly eyes<br />
● Black paint<br />
● White paper<br />
Method:<br />
1. Cut the black paper in the same width as the<br />
toilet paper roll or paint the toilet paper black.<br />
2. Cut half oval with the white paper.<br />
3. Cut two wings with the black paper.<br />
4. Cut a beak and two feet with the orange paper.<br />
5. Glue the black paper around the roll.<br />
6. Glue the white paper oval half over the black<br />
paper or the black painted roll.<br />
7. Glue wiggly eyes onto the white paper.<br />
8. Glue on the beak.<br />
9. Glue on the legs to the inside of the roll.<br />
10. Lastly glue on the wings.<br />
A.A.A.<br />
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281-798-5224<br />
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• Mulch<br />
• Monthly Packages<br />
• Drainage System<br />
Join us at Katy First UMC for<br />
Christmas Eve<br />
<strong>December</strong> 23<br />
Contemporary Service 6PM<br />
<strong>December</strong> 24<br />
Children's Service 4PM<br />
Candlelight Service 6PM<br />
Candlelight/Communion 8PM<br />
Katyfirst.org - 5601 Fifth Street - 77493<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
15
Houston Area Events<br />
HOUSTON MARGARITA FESTIVAL - <strong>December</strong> 9 th , 12 Noon-10 PM, Water Works Park,<br />
105 Sabine, Houston, TX 77007, admission: $15-$90. Now in its 6 th year, Houston Margarita<br />
Festival returns with margaritas, salsa dancing, music and fun like never before! Some of<br />
Houston’s finest mixologists have joined the fun equipping the festival with some of the<br />
most superior tasting margaritas in the market. With 30+ margarita flavors on the menu, the<br />
list is extensive.<br />
TOMBALL GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET & FESTIVAL - <strong>December</strong> 7-9, <strong>2018</strong>, 200 Market St.,<br />
Tomball, TX 77375, admission free. Friday 6-10 PM, Saturday 10 AM-10 PM, Sunday 10 AM-6<br />
PM. We will have over 200 vendors, live music, entertainment, food and drinks for the family.<br />
We have a petting zoo, carnival and pony rides. Admission, Parking and Shuttle are free.<br />
SNOWFEST FESTIVAL - Friday, <strong>December</strong> 7, <strong>2018</strong>, 5:30-9 PM, City Hall Complex, 1522<br />
Texas Parkway, Missouri City, TX 77459. Admission is free. Pre-festival entertainment will<br />
kick off the event and will follow with the tree lighting ceremony and fireworks! Guests are<br />
invited to enjoy the array of event activities including the 3-lane snow hill & photos with<br />
Santa!<br />
SNOWFEST PARADE - Saturday, <strong>December</strong> 8, <strong>2018</strong>, 9 AM, Cartwright Rd., Missouri City,<br />
TX 77459. Admission is free. Join us for the 35 th annual Snowfest Parade! The two mile<br />
long procession will feature floats decorated in holiday themes and various organizations<br />
on foot! The parade will begin at the Public Safety Headquarters located on the corner of<br />
Cartwright Road and Murphy Road. Roads will close at 7:30 AM surrounding parade route.<br />
Community organizations that would like to participate in the Snowfest Parade are invited<br />
to contact Kyle Frye at kfrye@missouricitytx.gov.<br />
10TH ANNUAL GINGERBREAD BUILD OFF - Saturday <strong>December</strong> 8, <strong>2018</strong>, 10 AM-4:30 PM,<br />
Hermann Square, 900 Smith Street, Houston, TX 77002. Open to the public and free for<br />
spectators. Competing teams will create their masterpieces using 100% edible materials.<br />
More than 4,000 spectators are expected to attend and cheer on the teams, play in the kids’<br />
construction zone and see Santa! All of that entertainment is free and open to the public!<br />
Team registration for the <strong>2018</strong> event is open to local architecture firms, design professionals,<br />
students and enthusiasts seeking the coveted Grand Prix de Show for their edible structure.<br />
For more info or to registar, aiahouston.org/v/site-home/Gingerbread-Build-Off/39.<br />
57 TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BOAT LANE PARADE - <strong>December</strong> 8, <strong>2018</strong>, 6 PM, Kemah<br />
Boardwalk, 215 Kipp Avenue, Kemah, TX 77565. Admission free. Every year over 100 festively<br />
decorated boats of all sizes parade around Clear Lake and through the Clear Lake Channel<br />
in front of the Kemah Boardwalk.<br />
THE HERITAGE SOCIETY’S ANNUAL CANDLELIGHT TOUR - <strong>December</strong> 8, <strong>2018</strong>, 5-9 PM,<br />
The Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002. Admission: $10. The Heritage<br />
Society’s annual holiday tradition, the Candlelight Tour, will feature decorated buildings,<br />
historic characters relating stories of the past, carolers, Houston Boychoir in St. John Church,<br />
Santa Claus and his Workshop, family entertainment and holiday fare at the Candlelight Café.<br />
GEORGE RANCH HISTORICAL PARK PRESENTS CAMPFIRE CHRISTMAS - <strong>December</strong> 8<br />
and 15, <strong>2018</strong>, 6 PM, George Ranch Historic Park, 10215 FM 762 Rd., Richmond , TX 77469.<br />
Reservations are required (www.georgeranch.org/event-calendar/campfire-christmasdecember-8-15/).<br />
Tickets are $50 for adults and $45 for children, seniors and groups of 10 or<br />
more. This event is recommended for adults and children age 8 and up. Journey back into<br />
time to Christmases past with this one-of-a-kind immersive holiday experience. Guests will<br />
start the evening with a merry greeting at the Visitor Center and hot chocolate and coffee<br />
to warm their souls. Then, enjoy a classic holiday meal featuring scrumptious recipes from<br />
Christmases gone by. After dinner, take a turn on the dance floor. Finally, hop on the timetraveling<br />
tram for a journey.<br />
THE CHRISTMAS TRAIN AT VICTORY CAMP - <strong>December</strong> 1 st , <strong>December</strong> 7 th -8 th , <strong>December</strong><br />
13 th -15 th and <strong>December</strong> 17 th -23 rd , 1407 Victory Ln., Alvin, TX 77511. Weekdays 6:30-9:30<br />
PM, Fridays & Saturdays 6-10 PM. Buy Tickets Online for $8 at www.thechristmastrain.org.<br />
Tickets at the door $10. Kids 2 and under are free. The Christmas Train is a unique holiday<br />
experience, unlike anything else in Houston! An old-fashioned train ride through Christmas<br />
Scenery and over 300,000 lights.<br />
DISCOVERY GREEN PRESENTS FROSTIVAL AND THE ICE - Daily in <strong>December</strong> (see website<br />
www.discoverygreen.com/ice for times), Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St., Houston, TX<br />
77010. Tickets are $4-$18. The ICE is the largest outdoor ice skating surface in the Southwest.<br />
Discovery Green uses water from Kinder Lake to freeze the ice and all equipment runs on<br />
Green Mountain Energy’s renewable energy, ensuring The ICE is environmentally friendly<br />
and sustainable.<br />
16 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
LIGHTS, SNOW AND UGLY SWEATERS - Through January 6, 2019,<br />
Tuesday-Sunday, Children’s Museum Of Houston, 1500 Binz Street,<br />
Houston, TX 77004. Admission: $0-$12. When the holiday season<br />
rolls around, fire places light up, heaters turn on and the pumpkin<br />
spice craze returns, ‘tis the season to be jolly! The Children’s Museum<br />
of Houston invites you to unwrap the holiday magic, spread the joy<br />
and bring your friends to the Museum’s “Lights, Snow and Ugly<br />
Sweaters!” winter wonderland that has no end. Find a whole new<br />
reason for the season, come chase the Museum’s colorful lights and<br />
dashing colors and bring your loved ones for a warm and toasty<br />
escape from the past, into a bright, shimmering, shiny future.<br />
ZOO LIGHTS - Daily through January 13, 2019, 6-10 PM,<br />
Houston Zoo, 6200 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, TX 77030. Closed<br />
on <strong>December</strong> 24-25, <strong>2018</strong>. The Houston Zoo is transformed into a<br />
winter wonderland! TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights celebrates its<br />
seventh year as one of Houston’s most well-loved holiday traditions.<br />
Sip hot chocolate as you stroll through the beautiful Houston Zoo<br />
grounds and take in the sights and sounds of the season - including<br />
more than two million lights! Fifteen miles of earth-friendly LED<br />
lighting illuminate our ancient oak trees and decorate the paths to<br />
light your way.<br />
MAGICAL WINTER LIGHTS - Daily through January 6, 2019,<br />
5-11 PM, Gulf Greyhound Park, 1000 FM 2004, La Marque, TX<br />
77568. Admission $13-$22 online at https://magicalwinterlights.<br />
com/general-info/. The <strong>2018</strong> festival will feature eight fascinating<br />
themed sections including The Kingdom, The Village, The Dino, The<br />
East, Houston, The Globe and the festival’s newest sections: The Ice<br />
and The Sea. The 52-day festival will also include a Holiday Market<br />
Square where guests will have a chance to explore the festival<br />
food court and shopping areas. Guests will have plenty of photo<br />
opportunities with appearances by the Ice Sisters and Santa Claus.<br />
There will be nightly acrobatic performances included in admission,<br />
authentic arts and crafts created by skilled Chinese artisans (dates<br />
TBD), amusement rides and games and an expanded dinosaur<br />
exhibit complete with dinosaur rides.<br />
ICE LAND & FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - Daily through January 6,<br />
2019, 10 AM-11PM, Moody Gardens, Seven Hope Blvd., Galveston,<br />
TX 77554. For tickets cost and purchase www.moodygardens.<br />
com/holiday_season. This year’s ICE LAND theme takes guests<br />
on a journey from the North to South poles. The CAA Ruijing Ice<br />
Carving Team will even create a giant ice slide that will take guests<br />
on a glacial journey. Guests will encounter polar bears, penguins,<br />
humpback whales, snowy owls, walruses and of course, reindeer -<br />
all hand-carved out of two million pounds of ice inside a 28,000 sq.<br />
ft. insulated tent structure chilled and maintained at nine degrees.<br />
Shiver’s Ice Bar also returns to ICE LAND this year as guests enjoy<br />
ultra-cool holiday spirits as they enter this bar made completely of<br />
ice creatively transformed into an igloo this year to fit the Pole-to-<br />
Pole theme.<br />
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT BAYOU BEND - <strong>December</strong> 14,<br />
<strong>2018</strong>-January 5, 2019, Wednesday-Sunday, 5:30 PM, Bayou Bend<br />
Collection And Gardens, 6003 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77007.<br />
Child Admission $10. Discover an immersive Christmas experience<br />
at beautiful Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. A dazzling bridge<br />
brings you into a winter wonderland featuring thousands of lights<br />
and activities for all ages throughout the 14-acre estate. Fun,<br />
holiday-themed tours of Ima Hogg’s historic mansion feature live<br />
actors, theatrical effects and Christmas decorations. You’ll find lots<br />
more to see and do, too.<br />
THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS SHOW (abridged) - Through <strong>December</strong><br />
23, <strong>2018</strong>, Wednesday-Saturday, 7 PM, Saturday-Sunday Matinee,<br />
2 PM, Stages Repertory Theatre, 3201 Allen Parkway, Suite 101,<br />
Houston, TX 77019, tickets start at $25. It’s the Annual Holiday Variety<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
Show and Christmas Pageant at St. Everybody’s Non-Denominational<br />
Universalist Church-where all faiths are welcome because we’ll<br />
believe anything! There’s just one minor problem: none of the acts<br />
scheduled to perform have arrived. Now it’s up to three quickwitted<br />
church members to perform the ENTIRE Variety Show and<br />
Christmas Pageant by themselves! An irreverent yet heartwarming<br />
romp through tradition, The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged)<br />
bursts with festive, slapstick fun as these cheerfully ridiculous clowns<br />
celebrate all of our favorite holiday traditions-at once.<br />
SECOND SUNDAY PICKERS - <strong>December</strong> 9 th , 2-4 PM, Jesse H. Jones<br />
Park, 20634 Kenswick Drive, Humble, TX 77338, admission is FREE.<br />
Beat the heat and join this musical group that is celebrating over 30<br />
years of concerts! Sing along, bring your own instrument, dance or<br />
just have fun. Join us as the Second Sunday Pickers entertain with<br />
acoustic music, including country-and-western, bluegrass, folk,<br />
gospel, Cajun and blues. Visitors of all ages are welcome.<br />
PANTO STAR FORCE - November 21, <strong>2018</strong>-<strong>December</strong> 30, <strong>2018</strong>,<br />
Wednesday-Saturday, 7 PM, Saturday-Sunday Matinee, 2 PM,<br />
Stages Repertory Theatre, 3201 Allen Parkway, Suite 101, Houston,<br />
TX 77019, tickets start at $25. Panto Star Force is an adventurous,<br />
cosmic blast of blockbuster hilarity! Jed, a farm boy from the planet<br />
Cypress, joins forces with a zany band of space rebels, robots and<br />
furry bartenders (and Buttons, of course!) to stop the powerful<br />
Emperor Snorkelfish and Dark Tater from taking over the galaxy.<br />
Come ready to laugh, cheer and boo in true Panto style, with plenty<br />
of toe-tapping music and intergalactic fun for the whole family!<br />
WITS PERFORMANCE POETRY FOR TEENS AT LEVY PARK - 1 st Friday<br />
of each month, 7-8:30 PM Levy Park 3801 Eastside, Houston, TX 77098,<br />
admission is FREE. During this monthly workshop for students ages<br />
13 to 19, young writers will craft original poems, meet other young<br />
writers and work with professional performance poets to explore their<br />
creative voices. No registration is required and walk-ins are welcome.<br />
THIRD THURSDAYS SIP & STROLL - 3 rd Thursday of each month,<br />
5-9 PM, Houston Heights 19th Street, 325 W 19 th St., Houston, TX<br />
77008, admission is FREE. Pick up complimentary sips along the<br />
line of local shops while you shop boutique clothings, handmade<br />
jewelry, home decor, antique, vintage, local made toiletries and<br />
visit our Eateries for crafted cocktails and delicious local fare!<br />
CARS AND COFFEE - through <strong>December</strong> 29, <strong>2018</strong>, 9 AM-12 PM.<br />
Gateway Classic Cars Of Houston, 1910 Cypress Station Drive, Suite<br />
200, Houston, TX 77090. Admission is free. Cruise in to Gateway<br />
Classic Cars every last Saturday of the month for Cars & Coffee. So<br />
far we have had some amazing turnouts, but we want to continue<br />
to grow! Enjoy delicious donuts, coffee and all of our sweet rides!<br />
No Admission fee and everyone is welcome! No cruiser? No sweat<br />
bring the daily driver. Hope to see you there. 250+ classic & exotics.<br />
Farmers Market at Imperial - Saturdays through <strong>December</strong> 29, <strong>2018</strong>,<br />
9 AM-1 PM, 234 Matlage Way, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Admission is<br />
free. In addition to a wonderful selection of vendors, the Farmers<br />
Market brings you family fun! Each week, the Market features live<br />
music, cooking demonstrations or other seasonal entertainment.<br />
Presented by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce.<br />
CARLOS CRUZ-DIEZ AT THE CISTERN: SPATIAL<br />
CHROMOINTERFERENCE - Weekly through January 13, 2019. Cistern<br />
At Buffalo Bayou Park, 105 Sabine Street, Houston, TX 77007. Times:<br />
Wednesday through Friday - 3:30-6 PM; Saturday and Sunday - 11 AM-6<br />
PM. Admission: $10 per person; $8 for Seniors, Youth and Students.<br />
The Cistern’s distinctive architecture as well as its sheer size and raw<br />
interior, punctuated by a series of rhythmical columns, will make for<br />
an intriguing and interactive experience. Visitors to Carlos Cruz-Diez<br />
at the Cistern: Spatial Chromointerference will be encouraged to wear<br />
white or light colored clothing and will actively participate in viewing<br />
as the color changes creating a sensation of movement.<br />
17
Libraries<br />
&<br />
Parks<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, Wed. 10 AM - 6<br />
PM, Thurs. 10 AM - 6 PM, Fri. 1 PM - 6 PM, Sat. 10 AM - 5 PM, Sun. closed.<br />
To register online for any of the programs at the library’s website (www.<br />
hcpl.net), click on “Events Calendar” and select “Maud Marks.” Participants<br />
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 />
HOLIDAY CLOSINGS:<br />
We will be closing for Christmas at 5 PM on <strong>December</strong> 21st and be<br />
closed <strong>December</strong> 22nd-25th. We will also be closing on <strong>December</strong> 31st<br />
at 5 PM and for New Year’s Day, January 1st.<br />
SPECIAL EVENTS<br />
• Used Book Sale - The Friends of the Maud Marks Library will hold<br />
their next book sale on Saturday, <strong>December</strong> 8th from 10 AM until 4 PM<br />
There is a large selection of hardback fiction and nonfiction, as well as<br />
children’s books and paperbacks. All books sold at rock bottom prices.<br />
• Winter Wonderland Open House - The holidays have arrived!! Join us<br />
at the Library as we celebrate our Winter Wonderland Open House on<br />
Friday, <strong>December</strong> 21st from 2-4 PM. Come listen to Christmas music.<br />
Visit Santa and join the elves in his workshop for fun crafts and other<br />
treats. For the complete schedule contact the library.<br />
• Volunteer at the Library - Volunteer opportunities abound at the library.<br />
Volunteers are needed to help shelve, count patrons and more.<br />
Students should be in high school and must be able to commit to<br />
two hours a week. If you would like to help in any way, please contact<br />
Elizabeth Herndon at 281-492-8592.<br />
• TeenMAKERS - Teens & tweens in 6th grade and up are invited to come<br />
MAKE something at the library. This will be a monthly program, which<br />
will include robotics, science experiments, art & crafts and more! We<br />
will be meeting the 1st Thursday a month at 4:30 PM. Come have fun<br />
and MAKE something!<br />
• Teen Book Club - We have started a teen book club! Teens are invited<br />
to join us on Thursday, <strong>December</strong> 20th at 4:30 PM as we discuss the<br />
book The Crown’s Game by Evelyn Skye. If you are interested in joining<br />
us, extra copies of the book are available at the checkout desk. Please<br />
register if you plan to attend.<br />
• Share your Holidays Food Drive - The library will once again be the<br />
drop off location for food donations for Channel 13’s annual “Share Your<br />
Holidays” Food Drive. The library has participated every year since it<br />
opened in 1993. All food donated will be distributed by Katy Christian<br />
Ministries and benefit families in the Katy area. The library will be accepting<br />
donations of food from 6 AM to 6 PM, Friday, <strong>December</strong> 7th at<br />
the entrance of the library building. The food drive begins early in order<br />
to allow commuters the opportunity to stop by on their way to work.<br />
• How to Read a Financial Statement - Business finances can get complicated<br />
and confusing. The library can help. Join us on Saturday, <strong>December</strong><br />
15th at 10:30 AM as S.C.O.R.E. presents how to read a business<br />
financial statement. Learn key analysis techniques as we delve deeper<br />
into the money aspects of small business life.<br />
• Timeless Travelers: Christmas on the Boardwalk - Seniors 55+ are<br />
invited to join the library’s Timeless Travelers program for Christmas<br />
on the Kemah Boardwalk. The bus will be departing for Kemah on<br />
Monday, <strong>December</strong> 10th at 9 AM. We will be celebrating the holidays<br />
with food and fun on the Boardwalk. Seating is extremely limited.<br />
Registration required.<br />
• DIY Crafts: Dyed Glass Bottles - Have fun and save money by creating<br />
unique holiday decorations. On Tuesday, <strong>December</strong> 11th at 2 PM, we<br />
will be dyeing glass bottles to decorate our homes with. Seating is<br />
extremely limited for these classes.<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>December</strong> 11th 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 />
• 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 Wednesday<br />
of the month at 2 PM. You are encouraged to bring your favorite dessert<br />
to eat while we discuss whether our villains get their just desserts.<br />
• Computer Classes - The library offers a variety of computer classes<br />
18 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
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 />
• Wednesday Wonders - Come to the library and let imaginations soar<br />
as you explore STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math)<br />
with crafts and activities. On Wednesdays at 4:30 PM, the library will<br />
host Wednesday Wonders for ages 6-11. These programs normally last<br />
about one hour. All necessary materials are provided. This is a ticketed<br />
program. Tickets will be available at 4 PM. There will be no Wednesday<br />
Wonders on Wednesday, <strong>December</strong> 26th.<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 Storytime on Tuesday, <strong>December</strong> 18th.<br />
• Storytime - Storytime for preschool-aged children is held each Wednesday<br />
at 10:15 AM. Stories, fingerplays and songs are featured. This is ideal<br />
for children ages 3 to 5, but all children and their caregivers are welcome.<br />
There will be no Storytime on Wednesdays, <strong>December</strong> 19th and 26th.<br />
• Pre School Explorers - Is your pre-schooler ready to explore the world?<br />
Children ages 2 ½ to 5 are invited to come to the library on Wednesdays<br />
at 11:15 AM as we learn about the world. There will be plenty of stations<br />
for science and sensory exploration. There will be no Pre-School Explorers<br />
on Wednesdays, <strong>December</strong> 19th and 26th.<br />
• TOTALLY TODDLER STORYTIME - Toddlers, ages 18 to 36 months, are<br />
invited to participate in our Totally Toddler Storytime, which will be held<br />
on Thursdays, at 10:15 AM and 11:15 AM. Tickets are required for Toddler<br />
Storytime. Tickets are given to the first 30 toddlers the day of the event.<br />
There will be no Toddler Storytime on Thursdays, <strong>December</strong> 20th and 27th.<br />
“Like” us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/maudmarkslibrary.<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 PM - 8 PM,<br />
Thursday 10 AM - 6 PM, Friday 1 PM - 6 PM, Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM, Sunday<br />
CLOSED. Join online at www.hcpl.net or come by in person and we’ll help you<br />
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 adults<br />
get together to discuss a chosen book. Les invitamos a que todos los<br />
meses se reuna con nosotros para conversar sobre un libro. Lláme para más<br />
información.<br />
• SUPERACION PERSONAL - Second Wednesday of every month,<br />
6 PM. The Katy Branch Library hosts motivational discussions in<br />
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<br />
leftover seeds and exchange them for new seeds to try.<br />
WEEKLY PROGRAMS<br />
• GENEALOGY SQUAD - Every Monday, 2 PM. Bring your lunch and<br />
join us for an informal genealogy get-together. We’ll have computers,<br />
Ancestry.com and other genealogists to help each other with our<br />
searches.<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
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• Pressure Washing<br />
• Cabinet Painting<br />
• Fence Repair/Replacement<br />
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• KNOTTY & NICE CLUB - Every Wednesday, 1 PM. The Knotty &<br />
Nice Club is the place for you if you want to learn new needlework<br />
techniques, teach someone else or just hang out with other crafters.<br />
Come & 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 />
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 live within the<br />
city limits of Katy.<br />
MARY JO PECKHAM PARK FISHING LAKE: The lake is a stocked.<br />
Rules are posted out by the lake. Park hours are 6 AM-10 PM.<br />
If you have questions, please call the Parks Office at 281-531-1592.<br />
FITNESS ROOM CLASSES & ACTIVITIES<br />
PILATES - Mondays and Fridays - 10:45 AM-11:45 AM.<br />
YOGA - Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM<br />
& Mondays & Wednesdays, 5 PM-6 PM.<br />
ZUMBA - Tuesdays - 11 AM-12 PM (HC & KCL residents call Tuesday<br />
starting at 7 AM for reservations, other counties call Tuesday<br />
starting at 10 AM) & Thursdays 5 PM - 6 PM (HC & KCL residents,<br />
call Thursday starting at 7 AM for reservations, other counties call<br />
Thursday starting at 10 AM) and Saturdays - 8:15-9:15 AM (HC & KCL<br />
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<br />
own on the fitness equiPMent. You must be 16 year and up & bring a<br />
full size towel and wear atheletic shoes. Various times available daily.<br />
The machines are closed during class times.<br />
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POOL CLASSES & ACTIVITIES<br />
DEEP WATER AEROBICS - This hour class is a high cardio vascular<br />
workout. A flotation device is advised. Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 9 AM.<br />
WATER AEROBICS - This one hour class is low-impact, which is easy<br />
on the joints. Monday-Friday, 9:05 AM-10:05 AM.<br />
Monday & Wednesday 5:45 PM-6:45 PM.<br />
ARTHRITIS AQUATICS - This class consists of range of motion,<br />
muscle strengthening and endurance-building activities.<br />
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 11 AM - 12 PM.<br />
RECREATIONAL SWIM (call to reserve a spot) - There is no lap<br />
swimming at this time. Mondays & Wednesdays, 4 PM-5:30 PM,<br />
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 11 AM-12:30 PM, Saturday & Sunday, 2:30<br />
PM-4 PM. Reservations may be made 1 day in advance for Harris<br />
County residents & those who reside within the Katy City Limits.<br />
Other counties may call the day of the Recreational Time.<br />
LAP SWIM/WATER WALK - Various times daily.<br />
(for ages 12years and up)<br />
LAP SWIM FOR AGES 8-11 - Fridays 4 PM-4:45 PM, Saturdays and<br />
Sundays 11:30 AM-1:30 PM (in 30 minute increments). Call to reserve<br />
a lane. Reservations may be made 1 day in advance for Harris County<br />
residents & those who reside within the Katy City Limits. Other<br />
counties may call the day of.<br />
AMERICAN RED CROSS SWIM LESSONS - Ages 6 months - Adults.<br />
Call or come in to get schedule for lessons.<br />
20 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
KID’S CHRISTMAS<br />
KORNER<br />
Q: What goes oh, oh, oh?<br />
A: Santa Claus walking<br />
backwards!<br />
Q: Where did the mistletoe<br />
go to become famous?<br />
A: Holly-wood<br />
Q: What do elves learn<br />
at school?<br />
A: The Elf-abet!<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
21
Church<br />
Events<br />
St. Peter’s United Methodist Church<br />
Messiah Singalong<br />
Sunday, <strong>December</strong> 2, <strong>2018</strong>, 7 PM<br />
St. Peter’s United Methodist Church,<br />
20775 Kingsland Blvd., Katy, TX 77450 • stpkaty.org<br />
What is Christmas without Handel’s Messiah? The Chancel Choir of St. Peter’s<br />
United Methodist Church in Katy invites you to their annual Messiah Singalong<br />
in the Sanctuary. Please come to sing or just to listen to this beautiful music.<br />
There will be soloists and a full orchestra. There is no charge. Copies of the<br />
sheet music will be available for loan or for sale. Reception to follow.<br />
Community Fun Fridays - Jingle Jam<br />
Friday, <strong>December</strong> 14, <strong>2018</strong>, 6:30-8:30 pm<br />
The Fellowship - 22765 Westheimer Parkway, Katy 77450<br />
www.thefellowship.org/resources/events/community-fun-fridays<br />
Bring your family and friends for this FREE holiday gathering - Jingle Jam:<br />
A Sensible Christmas! The pre-party starts at 6:10 PM with the Jingle Jam<br />
show beginning at 6:30 PM. Lots of activities after the show - photos<br />
booths, cookies, hot chocolate, games, crafts and even Santa! Free event<br />
- but please preregister. Come ring in the holidays with Jingle Jam!<br />
Christmas Eve Worship At Living Stones<br />
Living Stones Church invites community members to join in celebrating<br />
the birth of Christ on Christmas Eve, Monday, <strong>December</strong> 24 th at 5 PM, at<br />
Tays Junior High, 26721 Hawk’s Prairie Blvd. in Katy. The family-friendly,<br />
music-filled service features familiar carols and other Christmas favorites,<br />
as well as a special message from Pastor Scott Rawlings. A nursery is<br />
available for children up to 2 years of age, while pre-school children and<br />
older will have worship seat activities and a snack.<br />
The service concludes with Silent Night and the lighting of luminaries for<br />
a truly inspirational celebration of the most special gift ever given, the gift<br />
of Jesus. For additional information, visit LivingStones.org.<br />
Katy First Umc Christmas Services<br />
5601 Fifth Street, Katy Texas 77493<br />
Katyfirst.org<br />
<strong>December</strong> 23 rd : Contemporary Service at 6 PM.<br />
On <strong>December</strong> 24 th :<br />
Children’s Service 4 PM<br />
Candlelight Service 6 PM<br />
Candlelight/Communion 8 PM<br />
Cornerstone Presbyterian Church<br />
Christmas Services<br />
1351 S. Mason Road - 281-579-1080 cornerstonekaty.org<br />
On Christmas Eve there will be a Candlelight Service at 6 PM<br />
(in Memorial Parkway).<br />
River Bend Baptist Church<br />
Christmas Services<br />
27600 FM 1093, Fulshear, TX 77441<br />
281-346-2279<br />
RiverBendBC.org<br />
Celebrate Light: <strong>December</strong> 20 th -23 rd : 6:30-7:30 PM<br />
Christmas Eve Services: 4:30 & 6 PM<br />
Living Word Lutheran Church<br />
3700 S. Mason Rd., Katy 77450 - 281-392-2300<br />
www.livingwordkaty.org<br />
“BEHOLD, A SAVIOR!” Sunday, <strong>December</strong> 9 th<br />
“Behold, a Savior!” is a portrait of a promise and a portrait of the fulfillment of<br />
that promise. Throughout this musical, Jay Rouse and Rose Aspinall skillfully<br />
weave scripture and dramatic first-hand accounts of the birth of Jesus into<br />
beloved carols and original songs. Each monologue and song will take you<br />
on a journey from the longing of Zechariah, the joy and acceptance of Mary<br />
and the courage of Joseph to the accounts of the shepherds and wise men. .<br />
Let us inspire and prepare you for the celebration of the birth of our Lord with<br />
both familiar Christmas carols and newly-composed pieces at 8, 9:15 and 11<br />
AM in the church sanctuary. The musical presentation will feature the Living<br />
Word Choir accompanied by a chamber orchestra.<br />
CHRISTMAS WORSHIP<br />
Living Word would like to invite the community to join them this<br />
Christmas to celebrate the birth of Christ. A Pre-Christmas Vespers<br />
service will be held on <strong>December</strong> 21 st at 7 PM for families that will not<br />
be in town for Christmas Eve. The service will include familiar Christmas<br />
hymns, readings, communion and special music of the season in a liveunplugged<br />
setting. The service will conclude with a candle lighting.<br />
On Christmas Eve at 1 PM, there will be a Jazz Christmas Eve afternoon<br />
vespers. The service will feature a jazz sextet playing unique arrangements<br />
for the season, congregational Christmas carols and a special Christmas<br />
jazz communion. A festive candle lit atmosphere will prepare one and all<br />
for this joyous season! At 3 PM, children ages 2 years through 3 rd grade<br />
(and their families) are invited to an Interactive Christmas Eve worship<br />
service. This interactive service will allow children to “live” the story of<br />
Christmas. A Contemporary Christmas Eve worship service featuring<br />
contemporary music will be held at 5 PM. Candlelight Christmas Eve<br />
Worship services featuring traditional music, the choir, bell choir and a<br />
brass ensemble will be held at 7 and 11 PM.<br />
Katy Christian Women’s Connection<br />
KCWC is part of Stonecroft, a ministry for women which provides Bible<br />
Studies, Prayer Connections and fellowship luncheons around the US.<br />
Katy Christian Women also sponsors monthly Prayer Coffees. These are<br />
held on the second Thursday of each month. New Bible Studies started<br />
in January. Please visit our website at Katycwc.org for locations or call<br />
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 />
22 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
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 the fourth<br />
Saturday 10-11:30 AM. We come together for fellowship, to worship and<br />
to hear inspirational speakers and testimonies, as well as for special<br />
events. Katy Women’s Aglow is a great place to make new friends! View<br />
our website for information about current Bible studies. Prayer meetings,<br />
special events and speaker biographies, 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 childcare<br />
provided upon advance request. Minimum participation 2, Maximum 10.<br />
Questions call 713-705-7884 ask for Marilyn or Tina.<br />
Trinity Baptist Church Senior Adult News<br />
Trinity Baptist Church Senior Adults get together on Monday afternoons<br />
from 1-4 PM for a time of fellowship, prayer and games... Come join the<br />
fun! Trinity Baptist Church is located at 10000 Spring Green Blvd. (corner<br />
of Spring Green and Fry). For more information, visit<br />
www.trinity-katy.org or call the church office at 281-579-6724.<br />
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HANUKKAH<br />
begins Sunday, <strong>December</strong> 2, <strong>2018</strong><br />
and ends Monday, <strong>December</strong> 10, <strong>2018</strong><br />
HISTORY OF HANUKKAH<br />
HANUKKAH TRADITIONS<br />
The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanukkah or Chanukah<br />
commemorates the rededication during the second century B.C. of<br />
the Second Temple in Jerusalem, where according to legend Jews<br />
had risen up against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean<br />
Revolt. Hanukkah, which means “dedication” in Hebrew, begins on the<br />
25 th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar and usually falls in November or<br />
<strong>December</strong>. Often called the Festival of Lights, the holiday is celebrated<br />
with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games and gifts.<br />
HISTORY OF HANUKKAH<br />
The events that inspired the Hanukkah holiday took place during a particularly<br />
turbulent phase of Jewish history. Around 200 B.C., Judea-also<br />
known as the Land of Israel-came under the control of Antiochus III, the<br />
Seleucid king of Syria, who allowed the Jews who lived there to continue<br />
practicing their religion. His son, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, proved<br />
less benevolent: Ancient sources recount that he outlawed the Jewish<br />
religion and ordered the Jews to worship Greek gods. In 168 B.C., his<br />
soldiers descended upon Jerusalem, massacring thousands of people<br />
and desecrating the city’s holy Second Temple by erecting an altar to<br />
Zeus and sacrificing pigs within its sacred walls.<br />
Did you know? The story of Hanukkah does not appear in the Torah because<br />
the events that inspired the holiday occurred after it was written.<br />
It is, however, mentioned in the New Testament, in which Jesus attends<br />
a “Feast of Dedication.”<br />
Led by the Jewish priest Mattathias and his five sons, a large-scale<br />
rebellion broke out against Antiochus and the Seleucid monarchy.<br />
When Matthathias died in 166 B.C., his son Judah, known as Judah<br />
Maccabee (“the Hammer”), took the helm; within two years the Jews<br />
had successfully driven the Syrians out of Jerusalem, relying largely<br />
on guerilla warfare tactics. Judah called on his followers to cleanse the<br />
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Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
23
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Second Temple, rebuild its altar and light its menorah-the gold candelabrum<br />
whose seven branches represented knowledge and creation and<br />
were meant to be kept burning every night.<br />
THE HANUKKAH “MIRACLE”<br />
According to the Talmud, one of Judaism’s most central texts, Judah Maccabee<br />
and the other Jews who took part in the rededication of the Second<br />
Temple witnessed what they believed to be a miracle. Even though there was<br />
only enough untainted olive oil to keep the menorah’s candles burning for<br />
a single day, the flames continued flickering for eight nights, leaving them<br />
time to find a fresh supply. This wondrous event inspired the Jewish sages<br />
to proclaim a yearly eight-day festival. (The first Book of the Maccabees<br />
tells another version of the story, describing an eight-day celebration that<br />
followed the rededication but making no reference to the miracle of the oil.)<br />
OTHER INTERPRETATIONS OF THE HANUKKAH STORY<br />
Some modern historians offer a radically different interpretation of the<br />
Hanukkah tale. In their view, Jerusalem under Antiochus IV had erupted<br />
into civil war between two camps of Jews: those who had assimilated<br />
into the dominant culture that surrounded them, adopting Greek and<br />
Syrian customs; and those who were determined to impose Jewish laws<br />
and traditions, even if by force. The traditionalists won out in the end,<br />
with the Hasmonean dynasty-led by Judah Maccabee’s brother and his<br />
descendants-wresting control of the Land of Israel from the Seleucids and<br />
maintaining an independent Jewish kingdom for more than a century.<br />
Jewish scholars have also suggested that the first Hanukkah may have<br />
been a belated celebration of Sukkot, which the Jews had not had the<br />
chance to observe during the Maccabean Revolt. One of the Jewish religion’s<br />
most important holidays, Sukkot consists of seven days of feasting,<br />
prayer and festivities.<br />
HANUKKAH TRADITIONS<br />
The Hanukkah celebration revolves around the kindling of a nine-branched<br />
menorah, known in Hebrew as the hanukiah. On each of the holiday’s eight<br />
nights, another candle is added to the menorah after sundown; the ninth<br />
candle, called the shamash (“helper”), is used to light the others. Jews typically<br />
recite blessings during this ritual and display the menorah prominently<br />
in a window as a reminder to others of the miracle that inspired the holiday.<br />
In another allusion to the Hanukkah miracle, traditional Hanukkah foods are<br />
fried in oil. Potato pancakes (known as latkes) and jam-filled donuts (sufganiyot)<br />
are particularly popular in many Jewish households. Other Hanukkah<br />
customs include playing with four-sided spinning tops called dreidels and<br />
exchanging gifts. In recent decades, particularly in North America, Hanukkah<br />
has exploded into a major commercial phenomenon, largely because it falls<br />
near or overlaps with Christmas. From a religious perspective, however, it<br />
remains a relatively minor holiday that places no restrictions on working,<br />
attending school or other activities.<br />
Source: www.history.com/topics/holidays/hanukkah<br />
KWANZAA<br />
DECEMBER 26, <strong>2018</strong> - JANUARY 1, 2019<br />
Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor and chairman of Black Studies at California<br />
State University, Long Beach, created Kwanzaa in 1966. After the Watts riots<br />
in Los Angeles, Dr. Karenga searched for ways to bring African-Americans<br />
together as a community. He founded US, a cultural organization and<br />
started to research African “first fruit” (harvest) celebrations. Karenga<br />
combined aspects of several different harvest celebrations, such as those<br />
of the Ashanti and those of the Zulu, to form the basis of Kwanzaa.<br />
KWANZAA HISTORY<br />
The name Kwanzaa is derived from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza”<br />
which means “first fruits” in Swahili. Each family celebrates Kwanzaa in its<br />
own way, but celebrations often include songs and dances, African drums,<br />
storytelling, poetry reading and a large traditional meal. On each of the<br />
seven nights, the family gathers and a child lights one of the candles on the<br />
Kinara (candleholder), then one of the seven principles is discussed. The<br />
principles, called the Nguzo Saba (seven principles in Swahili) are values<br />
of African culture, which contribute to building and reinforcing community<br />
among African-Americans. Kwanzaa also has seven basic symbols, which<br />
represent values and concepts reflective of African culture. An African feast,<br />
called a Karamu, is held on <strong>December</strong> 31 st .<br />
Did you know? The seven principles or Nguzo Saba are a set of ideals created<br />
by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Each day of Kwanzaa emphasizes a different principle.<br />
The candle-lighting ceremony each evening provides the opportunity to<br />
gather and discuss the meaning of Kwanzaa. The first night, the black candle<br />
in the center is lit (and the principle of umoja/unity is discussed). One candle<br />
is lit each evening and the appropriate principle is discussed.<br />
SEVEN PRINCIPLES<br />
The seven principles or Nguzo Saba are a set of ideals created by Dr.<br />
Maulana Karenga. Each day of Kwanzaa emphasizes a different principle.<br />
• Unity:Umoja (oo–MO–jah): To strive for and maintain unity in the family,<br />
community, nation and race.<br />
24 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
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• Self-determination: Kujichagulia (koo–gee–cha–goo–LEE–yah): To define<br />
ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves.<br />
• Collective Work and Responsibility: Ujima (oo–GEE–mah): To build and<br />
maintain our community together and make our brother’s and sister’s<br />
problems our problems and to solve them together.<br />
• Cooperative Economics: Ujamaa (oo–JAH–mah): To build and maintain our<br />
own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together.<br />
• Purpose: Nia (nee–YAH): To make our collective vocation the building<br />
and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their<br />
traditional greatness.<br />
• Creativity: Kuumba (koo–OOM–bah): To do always as much as we can,<br />
in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and<br />
beneficial than we inherited it.<br />
• Faith: Imani (ee–MAH–nee): To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents,<br />
our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.<br />
SEVEN SYMBOLS<br />
The seven principles or Nguzo Saba are a set of ideals created by Dr. Maulana<br />
Karenga. Each day of Kwanzaa emphasizes a different principle.<br />
• Mazao, the crops (fruits, nuts and vegetables): Symbolizes work and the<br />
basis of the holiday. It represents the historical foundation for Kwanzaa,<br />
the gathering of the people that is patterned after African harvest festivals<br />
in which joy, sharing, unity and thanksgiving are the fruits of collective<br />
planning and work.<br />
• Mkeka: Place Mat: The mkeka, made from straw or cloth, comes directly<br />
from Africa and expresses history, culture and tradition. It symbolizes the<br />
historical and traditional foundation for us to stand on and build our lives<br />
because today stands on our yesterdays, just as the other symbols stand<br />
on the mkeka.<br />
• Vibunzi: Ear of Corn: The stalk of corn represents fertility and symbolizes<br />
that through the reproduction of children, the future hopes of the family<br />
are brought to life. One ear is called vibunzi and two or more ears are called<br />
mihindi. Each ear symbolizes a child in the family and thus one ear is placed<br />
on the mkeka for each child in the family.<br />
• Mishumaa Saba: The Seven Candles: Candles are ceremonial objects with<br />
two primary purposes: to re-create symbolically the sun’s power and to<br />
provide light. The celebration of fire through candle burning is not limited<br />
to one particular group or country; it occurs everywhere. Mishumaa saba<br />
are the seven candles: three red, three green and one black. The back<br />
candle symbolizes Umoja (unity), the basis of success and is lit on <strong>December</strong><br />
26 th . The three green candles, representing Nia, Ujima and Imani,<br />
are placed to the right of the Umoja candle, while the three red candles,<br />
representing Kujichagulia, Ujamaa and Kuumba, are placed to the left of<br />
it. During Kwanzaa, on candle, representing one principle, is lit each day.<br />
Then the other candles are relit to give off more light and vision. The number<br />
of candles burning also indicate the principle that is being celebrated.<br />
The illuminating fire of the candles is a basic element of the universe and<br />
every celebration and festival includes fire in some form. Fire’s mystique,<br />
like the sun, is irresistible and can destroy or create with its mesmerizing,<br />
frightening, mystifying power.<br />
• Kinara: The Candleholder: The kinara is the center of the Kwanzaa setting<br />
and represents the original stalk from which we came: our ancestry. The<br />
kinara can be shape - straight lines, semicircles or spirals - as long as the<br />
seven candles are separate and distinct, like a candelabra.<br />
• Kikombe Cha Umoja: The Unity Cup: The kikombe cha umoja is a special<br />
cup that is used to perform the libation (tambiko) ritual during the Karamu<br />
feast on the sixth day of Kwanzaa. In many African societies libation<br />
are poured for the living dead whose souls stay with the earth they tilled.<br />
• Zawadi: Gifts: When we celebrate Imani on the seventh day of Kwanzaa,<br />
we give meaningful zawadi (gifts) to encourage growth, self-determination,<br />
achievement and success. We exchange the gifts with members of our immediate<br />
family, especially the children, to promote or reward accomplishments<br />
and commitments kept, as well as with our guests. Handmade gifts<br />
are encouraged to promote self-determination, purpose and creativity and<br />
to avoid the chaos of shopping and conspicuous consumption during the<br />
<strong>December</strong> holiday season. A family may spend the year making kinaras or<br />
may create cards, dolls or mkekas to give to their guests.<br />
Excerpted from the book: The Complete Kwanzaa Celebrating Our Cultural<br />
Harvest. Copyright 1995 by Dorothy Winbush Riley. Reprinted with permission<br />
from HarperPerennial.<br />
Source: www.history.com/topics/holidays/kwanzaa-history<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
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25
Support & Help Groupos<br />
Katy Christian Ministries<br />
Help to Survivors of Sexual Assault<br />
The 24-hour Crisis Hotline number is 281-693- RAPE (7273).<br />
NON-EMERGENCY # 281-391-5262.<br />
The KCM Sexual Assault Center is run by a staff of three permanent employees<br />
and a dedicated group of volunteers who manage many vital functions. The<br />
Center offers many volunteer opportunities for interested persons, including<br />
clerical, crisis hotline and direct contact jobs such as sexual assault survivor<br />
advocacy. All volunteers must obtain training offered by the Center.<br />
Katy Christian Ministries Food Pantry provides:<br />
• Three day nutritionally balanced supplement<br />
of non-perishable food twice monthly<br />
• Hygiene items once a month<br />
• Birthday bags to our children for their special day<br />
• Fresh produce from yard gardeners & local farmers<br />
FOOD FAIRS<br />
KCM Community Food Fairs offer FREE PRODUCE to anyone who needs<br />
it. Last Saturday of each month at Powerhouse Church Katy, 1818<br />
Katyland Drive, Katy, 9:30 AM-11:30 AM. Katy Christian Ministries and<br />
Powerhouse Church have partnered together to provide this free service<br />
to the community and gives away thousands of pounds of fresh produce<br />
each month on a first come, first served basis.<br />
FYI<br />
• Referrals to WIC (Women, Infant, Child) government nutrition<br />
program for baby formula; dairy products.<br />
• Red Barrels in Katy area grocery stores benefit KCM.<br />
• 100% of all financial donations are allocated per donor request!<br />
NEEDS<br />
• Canned: Green Vegetables, Pork’n Beans, Carrots, Tuna, Corn,<br />
8 oz. Tomato sauce, Fruit, Macaroni & Cheese<br />
• One lb. bags of: Beans, Rice<br />
• Family Size: Bath Soap, Shampoo, Toothpaste, Toilet Paper<br />
• Soap: Laundry, Dish<br />
Katy Christian Ministries Administration Office, Food Pantry and Store is<br />
located at 5510 1 st Street, Katy, Tx 77493 and the number is 281-391-5261.<br />
Free Mental Disorders<br />
Family Support Group<br />
Meets at a number of locations. Complete listing on www.<br />
namimetrohouston.org or call 713-970-4419.<br />
NAMI Family to Family<br />
FREE MENTAL DISORDERS FAMILY EDUCATION COURSE<br />
This NAMI Family to Family 12-week Education Course (2 1/2 hrs. per week)<br />
is for family members of persons with bipolar (manic depression), anxiety<br />
disorders, schizophrenia, severe depression and other neurobiological<br />
disorders. For information, please call 713-970-4419 or<br />
www.namigreaterhouston.org.<br />
Family to Family Network<br />
Support for Families who have<br />
a Child with Disabilities<br />
Family to Family Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping<br />
families of children with disabilities by providing information, referral,<br />
support, training, a mentoring program, a local leadership and advocacy<br />
training program, Lending Library and as well as a website created<br />
specifically for parents of students receiving special education services. The<br />
F2F-Katy Chapter meetings are held during the day at Crosspoint Community<br />
Church and in the evening at St. Peters United Methodist Church. For more<br />
information, call 713-466-6304. Please see Calendar of Events at page for a<br />
current schedule of Katy Events at www.familytofamilynetwork.org.<br />
Depression and Bipolar Support<br />
Alliance Greater Houston<br />
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Greater Houston (DBSA) sponsors<br />
FREE support groups that assist in managing mood disorders of individuals<br />
with depression and bipolar disorder. Family members, friends and caregivers<br />
are also invited to attend to learn more about these illnesses. Our groups are led<br />
by trained individuals who provide a compassionate environment consisting<br />
of peers who accept and understand each other. This sense of community<br />
and empathy gives participants encouragement to live more meaningful and<br />
healthy lives. Our Katy adult and young adult groups are hosted by St. Peter’s<br />
United Methodist Church off Kingsland Blvd. every Tuesday from 7 PM-8:30<br />
PM. Please visit our website for a complete list of groups in the Houston area<br />
and resources on mood disorders at www.dbsahouston.org<br />
Donation Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 8 AM to 4 PM.<br />
Thursday from 1 PM to 6 PM. Friday from 8 AM to 3 PM. Katy Christian<br />
Ministries Donation Center is located at 5012 E. 3 rd Street, Katy, Tx 77493<br />
and the number is 281-391-7400 (24 Hr. Voice Recording).<br />
The Compassionate Friends<br />
HOUSTON WEST CHAPTER: The Compassionate Friends - Katy Chapter (TCF-<br />
Katy), a support group for parents who have lost a child. Meetings are held the<br />
second Tuesday of the month at 7 PM in the John Burns building of Kingsland<br />
Baptist Church. 20555 Kingsland Blvd. in Katy, across from the Taylor High<br />
tennis courts. All bereaved parents, family members or close friends of parents<br />
who have lost a child are invited to attend the TCF-Katy meeting.<br />
There is no cost to attend and participation is completely voluntary.<br />
The Compassionate Friends organization is not affiliated with<br />
any religious group. For more info. please visit our website, www.<br />
compassionatefriends-katy.org or contact Jo, 281-347-1027 or<br />
Annette, 281-578-9118.<br />
Alcoholics Anonymous<br />
If you want to drink, that’s your business; if you want to stop, that’s<br />
ours. To find a meeting near you or for other information call:<br />
713-686-6300 or go to www.aahouston.org.<br />
The Memory Café At Amazing Place<br />
The Memory Café at Amazing Place, in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s<br />
Association, offers those with early stage dementia and their caregivers to<br />
meet others on Saturday Mornings. The Memory Café in Katy meets the third<br />
Saturday of each month from 10-11:30 AM at 20018 Chateau Bend Drive,<br />
Katy, TX. The program is free to all participants. For more information, contact<br />
Ariana Detert at 281-217-3077 or adetert@amazingplacehousotn.org.<br />
Dementia Caregiver Support Group<br />
The new monthly Dementia Caregiver Support Group will be held on the<br />
second Tuesday of each month from 6-7:30 PM at 20018 Chateau Drive in<br />
Katy, TX 77450. The confidential group, led by Ariana Detert, MSW, LCSW,<br />
is designed to allow caregivers dealing with loved ones at various stages<br />
of dementia to share their concerns, thoughts and feelings with others in<br />
similar situations. To attend the group, please contact Ariana Detert, MSW,<br />
LCSW at 281-217-3077 or adetert@amazingplacehouston.org.<br />
Katy OCD/Anxiety<br />
Support Group for Parents<br />
The Katy OCD/Anxiety group for parents meets on the last Saturday of<br />
each month at 9 AM at La Madeline restaurant in Katy. The purpose of this<br />
group is to support each other as we deal with raising children with OCD/<br />
26 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
Vijaya Dwibhashi, MD<br />
Medical Clinic<br />
at the Ranch<br />
Madhavi Prasad, MD<br />
Our goal is to improve health outcomes through<br />
increased participation and active engagement<br />
of patients in their health care.<br />
• Doctors are board-certified in internal medicine<br />
• Primary Care Clinic for adults 18+<br />
• In-house labs and many other services<br />
• Accept most insurance plans<br />
To schedule an appointment call: 281.394.0093<br />
9555 Spring Green Blvd, Ste H | Katy, TX 77494<br />
www.medicalclinicattheranch.com<br />
Tompkins Theatre Company Presents...<br />
Once On This Island is the universal<br />
tale of Ti Moune a fearless peasant girl in<br />
search of her place in the world, and ready<br />
to risk it all for love. Guided by the mighty<br />
island gods, Ti Moune sets out on a<br />
remarkable journey to reunite with the<br />
man who has captured her heart.<br />
January 31 & February 1 at 7 pm<br />
February 2 at 2 pm & 7 pm<br />
Students $12 and Adults $15<br />
Reserved Seating tickets go on sale January 17th<br />
at www.TompkinsTheatre.com<br />
General Admission Seating tickets sold<br />
at the door prior to each performance.<br />
Tompkins High School Performing Arts Center<br />
4400 Falcon Landing Blvd, Katy, TX 77494<br />
Assistance: tompkinsboxoffice@gmail.com<br />
anxiety/panic disorders. Does your child avoid social situations? Do they<br />
have unhealthy perfectionism or depression from anxiety? Come talk<br />
with us. We might be the right support group to find some answers, even<br />
if your child does not have a formal diagnosis. We will share resources<br />
with each other and offer advice. For more information, check out our<br />
website: http://shyness.meetup.com/353/.<br />
Katy/West Houston/CYPRESS Tourette<br />
Support Group<br />
The Katy Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas Support Group meets<br />
the second Wednesday of each month (except July), from 7 PM-8:30<br />
PM, at St. Catherine’s Methodist Hospital, 701 S. Fry Rd, Katy, TX 77450.<br />
There are concurrent adult and youth meetings. Adult meetings are varied<br />
with discussion, speakers and videos. During the youth meetings, snacks,<br />
crafts and games are enjoyed. Pizza/Video Game Nights and Holiday<br />
Parties are always a favorite. For more information, please contact ferla.<br />
nicola@gmail.com, tourettetexas@aol.com or call 281-238-8096.<br />
ECI Project TYKE<br />
ECI Project TYKE is a year round Early Childhood Intervention program<br />
(ECI) in the Katy Independent School District that specializes in working<br />
with children who need extra help. The program provides developmental<br />
services to children who may need assistance in attaining developmental<br />
milestones or who may have a disability. Services are provided to children<br />
from birth to three where they live, learn or play. ECI Project TYKE develops<br />
a supportive partnership with families by providing educational and<br />
emotional supports, which enriches the daily routines and relationships<br />
that will enable their child to reach his or her maximum potential. Anyone<br />
(parent, family, friend, caregiver, professional) can refer a child to ECI<br />
Project TYKE. If you know a child under the age of 3 who needs assistance<br />
in at least one area of development or who has a medical diagnosis or<br />
condition impacting his or her development, please call ECI Project TYKE<br />
281-237-6647 or make a referral on our website www.katyisd.org. ECI<br />
services are available statewide to help families. Early is best!!!!!<br />
Different Strokes<br />
Different Strokes is a wonderful group dedicated to serving and supporting<br />
people who have survived strokes themselves and for their caregivers.<br />
Although our needs are different, care is given to fill the needs for all of<br />
Community Newsletter | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />
us. Different Strokes meets every Tuesday, at 10 AM, in the Senior Center,<br />
located at 13150 Memorial Dr., for fellowship, learning, sharing, exercising<br />
and loving. We meet together to share with one another. Please join us. If you<br />
have had a stroke or anyone you know has survived a stroke, please consider<br />
learning more about this group. We would love to have you. Call for further<br />
information: Kay Callahan 713-461-5604 or Roberta Owens 281-463-3490.<br />
The Arc of Katy<br />
The Arc of Katy provides programs for individuals with IDD (Intellectual and<br />
Development Disabilities) including a day program, summer camp and socials for<br />
teens/ adults. New members are always welcome. Please visit www.thearcofkaty.<br />
org or call 832-754-9802 or 832-888-9265 for additional information.<br />
Palmer Drug Abuse Program (PDAP)<br />
PDAP is the only free outpatient substance abuse program for young<br />
people and parents in the greater Houston area. PDAP is spiritually<br />
based and is housed in churches. PDAP’s methodology is based upon the<br />
“Twelve Steps” of Alcoholics Anonymous. For Ages 12 to 17, call 281-870-<br />
9311 or for ages 17 to 25 call 713-647-8858.<br />
Drug & Alcoholism Family Support Group<br />
We are a group of men and women whose lives have been affected by either our<br />
own addiction or members of our family. We offer support and encouragement to<br />
help you manage your own life rather than focusing on others. Our meetings are<br />
every Wednesday night from 7-8 PM. For more information, call 713-632-5237.<br />
Home Encouragement<br />
Do you still believe in marriage? We do! By celebrating the institution<br />
of marriage, while connecting families with personal and professional<br />
resources, Home Encouragement sets it sights on helping to reduce the<br />
divorce rate in the Greater Houston area. Home Encouragement is a<br />
501(c)(3) non-profit that nurtures healthy marriages and strong families.<br />
We have many ways of doing this (please see website for details) and<br />
there is a special monthly event in the Katy area called Dinner and a<br />
Marriage. Our goal is to encourage married couples, as well as connecting<br />
them with Houston faith-based communities, family support systems<br />
and helpful individuals. For additional information, contact Kellie Hurst<br />
of Home Encouragement at 281-347-LIFE or visit our website at<br />
www.homeencouragement.org.<br />
27
Simple<br />
Ambrosia Salad<br />
You could make this on National Ambrosia<br />
Day on <strong>December</strong> 12 th !<br />
INGREDIENTS:<br />
3 (20 ounce) cans pineapple tidbits, drained<br />
4 (15 ounce) cans mandarin oranges, drained<br />
1 (16 ounce) container sour cream<br />
1 (10.5 ounce) package<br />
miniature marshmallows<br />
3/4 cup shredded coconut<br />
DIRECTIONS:<br />
Mix pineapple, oranges, sour cream,<br />
marshmallows and coconut together in a<br />
bowl. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and<br />
refrigerate until flavors blend, 2 hours to<br />
overnight.<br />
Source: allrecipes.com<br />
Date-Nut Bread<br />
You could make this on National Date Nut Bread Day <strong>December</strong> 22 nd !<br />
INGREDIENTS:<br />
1/2 cup raisins 1 cup sugar<br />
1 1/2 cups boiling water 1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
2 teaspoons butter, or as needed 1 egg, well-beaten<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 cup chopped pitted dates 1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
7 pitted prunes, chopped 1 cup chopped walnuts<br />
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened<br />
DIRECTIONS:<br />
Put raisins in a bowl. Pour boiling water over raisins; soak until raisins<br />
have flavored the water, about 20 minutes. Drain raisins, reserving the<br />
water. Discard raisins.<br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).<br />
Grease a loaf pan with butter.<br />
Bring reserved water to a boil in a small saucepan. Measure 3/4 cup<br />
boiling water into a bowl. Stir baking soda into water. Put dates and<br />
prunes in a large bowl. Pour baking powder-water over dates and<br />
prunes; add unsalted butter and stir until melted. Stir sugar and vanilla<br />
extract into the fruit mixture; let cool to room temperature.<br />
Stir egg into the fruit mixture to evenly coat. Mix flour and salt together<br />
in a small bowl; add to fruit mixture and stir. Fold walnuts into the<br />
mixture and pour into the prepared loaf pan.<br />
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center<br />
comes out clean, 50 to 65 minutes. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes<br />
before removing to cool completely on a wire rack.<br />
Source: allrecipes.com<br />
28 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> | Community Newsletter
Krenek Printing<br />
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTERS<br />
LLC<br />
<strong>December</strong><br />
Gardening<br />
Tips<br />
• If a long flowering period is desired, pansies should be placed in their permanent<br />
beds not later than this month. Fertilize monthly with manure, super-phosphate or<br />
a liquid high-phosphate product. Keep flowers picked for more bloom.<br />
• Take tulips out of cold storage and plant late this month.<br />
• Fertilize established trees, spring-blooming shrubs, spurias and sweet peas (after<br />
they are a foot tall) with a fertilizer such as 13-13-13; Louisiana iris with cotton<br />
seed meal and manure.<br />
• Azaleas and camellias may be moved now. Keep moist to lesson cold weather<br />
damage. May acidify again.<br />
• Last month to plant early blossoming spring bulbs, speciosum and other varieties<br />
of lilies. Mulch.<br />
• Water plants well before a freeze; dry roots are easily damaged.<br />
• Don’t forget to provide food and fresh water for birds. More birds die from lack of<br />
water than lack of food.<br />
DISCLAIMER: Articles and ads in this newsletter express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily<br />
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responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising<br />
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Published by: KRENEK PRINTING CO, 7102 Glen Chase Ct., Houston, TX, 77095<br />
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