Cypress Edition | November 2024

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Cypress Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 3 NOV. 7DEC. 6, 2024

Foot Reexology Star was the rst Texas massage establishment ordered to close under the authority of House Bill 3579. It has since reopened under new ownership.

JOVANNA AGUILARCOMMUNITY IMPACT Local entities combat human tracking in Cy-Fair

Although tracking victims may interact regu- larly with the public, language barriers, emotional manipulation and intensive monitoring can make it dicult for them to reach out for help, TDLR ocials said.

tracking is occurring. The rst closure under HB 3579 took place in Cy-Fair this summer, followed by at least four other area establishments. As of Oct. 16, the TDLR had issued 13 emergency closure orders statewide, Communications Manager Tela Mange said.

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

The Texas Legislature passed House Bill 3579 in 2023, enabling the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to issue emergency orders halting the operation of any massage establishment where law enforcement or TDLR ocials believe human

CONTINUED ON 14

Also in this issue

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Education: Find out why Cy-Fair ISD’s board voted to increase the property tax rate (Page 11)

Community: Learn about 15 opportunities to volunteer your time in the Cy-Fair area (Page 16)

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CYPRESS EDITION

In Katy ISD

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Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

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Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Angela Bonilla Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Nichaela Shaheen Jessica Shorten Haley Velasco Aubrey Vogel Carson Weaver Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Danica Lloyd Senior Editor dlloyd@ communityimpact.com

Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White Ronald Winters Account Executive Karen Nickerson Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Product Manager Kaitlin Schmidt Quality Desk Editor Sierra Rozen

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CYPRESS EDITION

Impacts

mirrors, lighting, seasonal decor, and bedding. • Opened Oct. 17 • 25839 Hwy. 290, Cypress • www.homesense.com 5 Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming The business oers a spa, treats and food for pets. • Opened Sept. 19 6 Black Rock Coee Bar The menu oers coee, tea, smoothies and breakfast items. • Opened Oct. 18 • 22219 FM 529, Ste. A, Katy • www.br.coffee • 15103 Mason Road, Cypress • www.woofgangbakery.com

G R A N T

249

CHAMPION FOREST DR.

S C HIELRD.

CYPRESSWOOD DR.

VINTAGE PARK BLVD.

N. BRIDGELAND LAKE PKWY.

HOUSE & HAHL RD.

WILLOWBROOK MALL

99 TOLL

MIL

HUFFMEISTER RD.

1960

CYPRESS N. HOUSTON RD.

BRIDGELAND CREEK PKWY.

290

7 Memorial Hermann- GoHealth Urgent Care

20A

20B

The urgent care clinic treats patients 6 months and older for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. • Opened Oct. 7 • 24330 Hwy. 290, Ste. 200, Cypress • www.gohealthuc.com/memorialhermann 8 United Boat & RV Storage The business oers storage space for boats and RVs, as well as for household items and commercial use. • Opened Sept. 19 • 17919 Cypress Rosehill Road, Cypress • www.unitedboatandrv.com 9 Ross The retailer sells clothing, shoes and home decor. • Opened Oct. 11 • 10835 Jones Road, Houston • www.rossstores.com

FALLBROOK DR.

GREENHOUSE RD.

L O

FRY RD.

529

MAP NOT TO SCALE

• Opened July 24 • 110 Vintage Park Blvd., Ste. Q, Houston • www.copalatintapas.com

Now open

1 HEB Bridgeland’s new H-E-B features a grocery selection for in-store shopping, curbside pickup or delivery. • Opened Oct. 30 • 20017 Bridgeland Creek Parkway, Cypress • www.heb.com 2 Copa Sips & Latin Tapas The restaurant serves Argentine empanadas, Peruvian ceviche and Brazilian fried shrimp bunuelos.

3 BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse The eatery serves soups, salads, pizzas, burgers, steaks, sandwiches, tacos, pasta, seafood and desserts. • Opened Sept. 30

• 25660 Hwy. 290, Cypress • www.bjsrestaurants.com

Coming soon

10 Five Guys The franchise is known for its customizable burgers, hot

4 Homesense The discount store oers furniture, rugs, wall art and

• Make sure your turkey fryer is on a sturdy, level surface and do not move it once it is in use. • Make sure it is at least 10 feet from your home and not under roof eaves. • Make sure your turkey is fully thawed without frost on it before you fry it. • Always use protective oven mitts. Keep children and pets at least 3 feet from the turkey fryer. CONNECT WITH US! Frying food puts you at the greatest risk of cooking fires. Before you fry a turkey, review these tips to keep you and your loved ones safe. TURKEY FRYER Fire Safety WWW.CYFAIRFD.ORG

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

dogs, sandwiches, fries and milkshakes. • Opening in November • 9620 Fry Road, Cypress • www.¡iveguys.com

• Opening Nov. 18 • 9430 Fry Road, Ste. 700, Cypress • www.stretchzone.com

Coming soon

17 Burlington The retailer features brand name items at low prices. • Opening next spring • 10787 Jones Road, Houston • www.burlington.com

11 Coee Fellows The coee shop blends European charm and American convenience. • Opening this fall • 11637 Telge Road, Ste. 101, Cypress • www.coffeefellows.com 12 Slick City The Katy-based action park will feature slides, sports air courts and zip lines. • Opening in November

Relocations

18 Rock Steady Boxing North Houston The nonpro£t oers Parkinson’s disease patients a low- impact workout through non-contact boxing classes. It recently relocated from Gracie Barra Copper£eld to Double Dragon Martial Arts Center. • Relocated this summer • 12111 Louetta Road, Houston • Facebook: Rock Steady Boxing North Houston

22 SweetCup Gelato & Sorbet Originale The 48 rotating avors of gelato, sorbet, gelato custard and frozen yogurt include stracciatella, pistachio, Italian wedding cake, vanilla bean tres leches and rose milk. The Montrose-based gelato shop was founded in 2012. • Opening TBD • 20711 Tuckerton Road, Cypress • www.sweetcupgelato.com

• 17355 Hwy. 249, Ste. 170B, Houston • www.slickcity.com/tx-willowbrook

13 Nothing Bundt Cakes The franchise oers bundt cakes with a variety of avors and sizes, as well as party supplies, decor and gifts. • Opening TBD

In the news

• 6860 Hwy. 6 N., Ste. C, Houston • www.nothingbundtcakes.com

19 Texas Mesquite Grill The restaurant celebrated 10 years in business this October. • 27104 Hwy. 290, Cypress • www.texasmesquitegrill.com 20 Cypress Cardiovascular Institute O§cials announced in an Oct. 1 news release they are oering new services, including a vein clinic to oer comprehensive cardiovascular care.

14 Chimac The Korean fast-food restaurant serves Korean barbecue bowls, subs, wings, chicken tenders and seafood. • Opening in early February • 12320 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress • www.eatchimac.com 15 Cheeky Monkeys The business oers soft play areas for kids as well as a space to host birthday parties for children 10 months to 8 years old. • Opening in February or March • 106 Vintage Park Blvd., Ste. E, Houston • www.cheekymonkeys.us 16 Stretch Zone The business oers packages of four, eight or 12 physical stretches a month.

Closings

23 Desi Styles The business oered traditional Bangladeshi, Indian and Pakistani clothing. • Closed in September • 10511 Jones Road, Ste. E, Houston • Facebook: Desi Styles 24 Big Lots The store’s items will be 30%-50% o before it closes. • Closing Nov. 29 • 10951 FM 1960 W., Houston • www.biglots.com

• A 21216 Hwy. 290, Ste. 650, Cypress • B 21212 Hwy. 290, Ste. 255, Cypress • www.cypresscardiovascularinstitute.com

21 Houston Premium Outlets Pandora, Hollister and Ferragamo recently opened at the outlet mall. • 29300 Hempstead Road, Cypress • www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/houston

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CYPRESS EDITION

Government

BY CASSANDRA JENKINS & DANICA LLOYD

Sports Authority names Canetti as interim CEO The Harris County-Houston Sports Authority has named Chris Canetti as interim CEO. What we know Ocials announced Oct. 14 that Canetti will temporarily ll the spot left by former longtime CEO Janis Burke. Canetti serves as president of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Host Committee. According to a news release from HCHSA, he will continue to serve in that capacity while acting as interim CEO. Friedman said Canetti has a proven track record of success in Houston. In the meantime, Friedman said HCHSA leadership will organize a special committee that will be tasked with identifying and hiring a permanent CEO. In case you missed it The HCHSA’s board of directors voted

Jersey Village to sell 10.9-acre plot of land After years of planning to bring retail and entertainment to Jersey Village south of Hwy. 290, the city is moving in another direction. What’s happening City Council voted Oct. 28 to authorize the sale of 10.885 acres of land to Lovett Indus- trial for $4.27 million, Mayor Bobby Warren said in a Facebook post. This money will cover the property purchased from Champion Forest Baptist Church in August for the relocation of City Hall. “We did our best to market the property to developers for mixed use. Unfortunately, we couldn’t nd anyone who was able to carry through on that vision,” Warren said in response to a comment on the Facebook post. The city still owns 23 acres at the site, which Warren said will also be sold.

unanimously Oct. 11 to release Burke after 18 years of service. The vote came on the heels of Houston Mayor John Whitmire sharing that he had received several complaints from

sports venue owners and stakeholders that HCHSA had become dicult to collaborate with and had “moved away from its core mission.” The HCHSA board is made up of 13 members conrmed by the Houston City Council and Harris County Commissioners Court. In addition to choos- ing the CEO, the board is tasked with maintaining sports venues and promoting sports-related events in the county. Burke shared a post on LinkedIn thanking the Houston community for their love and support over the course of her career. As of press time, Burke has declined additional request for comment. Chris Canetti

BEN TAUB HOSPITAL LEVEL I TRAUMA CARE FOR ALL

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY HANNAH NORTON

Texas aims to support students, teachers with new textbooks The Texas State Board of Education is set to approve a new collection of language arts and math textbooks this fall that state leaders hope will help close student achievement gaps and reduce time teachers spend creating lesson plans.

Student outcomes under TEA pilot program Lubbock ISD began piloting the TEA’s elementary-level materials at four schools during the 2021-22 school year. All 28 elementary schools were using the materials by the 2023-24 school year. The percentage of LISD elementary students who met grade level standards on the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness increased from 2019-2024 across all grade levels and demographics.

Among the proposed materials are textbooks developed by the Texas Education Agency since 2020. The state-developed textbooks would be available for free online and include kindergarten through fth grade reading and language arts; kindergarten through eighth grade math; and Algebra 1. If the SBOE approves the textbooks in Novem- ber, public school districts could begin using them during the 2025-26 school year. Use of the state-sanctioned materials is entirely optional, but districts that do so would receive up to $60 per student to purchase and print them. Districts currently receive about $171 per student, plus $16 for emergent bilingual students, to acquire textbooks, according to the TEA. The overview Texas lawmakers passed House Bill 1605 last year, amid concerns about whether teachers are using instructional materials that meet state standards. For the rst time, the law directs the state to create a list of high-quality textbooks and sets aside $324 million for districts to purchase the new materials. The state textbooks will ensure students learn at their grade level and build on important concepts each year, said Shannon Trejo, the TEA’s deputy commissioner of school programs. The TEA has piloted its textbooks in school districts around the state, such as Lubbock ISD, since 2021. Some districts have recorded “tremen- dous” success and student growth with the state materials, Trejo said. Put in perspective Some Texans have objected to frequent ref- erences to the Bible in the elementary school curriculum and raised concerns that the materials do not depict other religions equally. For example, a fth grade reading passage about the Renaissance describes Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous painting, “The Last Supper,” and includes excerpts of the Book of Matthew, which focuses on the crucixion of Jesus. Other religions are also included in the text- books. A proposed fourth grade poetry lesson, which is available on the SBOE website, features Kshemendra, a 12th-century poet who “studied

2019 2024

30% 20% 10% 0% 40% 50% 60%

NOTE: STUDENTS DO NOT BEGIN TAKING THE STAAR TEST UNTIL THIRD GRADE.

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Buddhism and Hinduism, and ... wrote epic poems based on various stories and gods from those religions.” “A big part of the concern for the faith com- munity is that there is so much Christian content that is presented as fact,” said Bee Moorhead, the executive director of Texas Impact, an interfaith policy organization. “The point of faith is that it’s not the same thing as knowledge.” TEA leaders defended the use of religious stories in the textbooks and said they are tied to American history. “In Texas, there is a wide diversity of folks that have dierent ethnic and religious backgrounds. [The curriculum] is not going to proselytize or seek to have someone believe a certain way about a certain religion,” a TEA spokesperson said. “Any sort of religious aspect is presented in an educa- tional or historic context, not like someone would receive it in a vacation Bible school.” At the Capitol Lawmakers discussed the state-developed materials during an Aug. 12 Texas House hearing. “I think if we do this right, it could be a game changer for teachers and students across the state,” state Rep. James Talarico, D¡Austin, said. Talarico, a seminary student and former middle school teacher, noted that “there is a dierence between teaching and preaching” and said he was concerned the TEA’s textbooks would do the latter. State Rep. Matt Schaefer, R¡Tyler, said public schools “should never be ashamed” of teaching

How we got here

May 2023 Texas Legislature passed House Bill 1605, directing the Texas Education Agency to create state-owned textbooks for the rst time Spring 2024 Publishers submitted materials to be examined by the State Board of Education and 295 trained reviewers, 53% of whom are classroom teachers May 29-Aug. 16, 2024 Public comment period for 142 proposed instructional materials Sept. 10-13, 2024 The SBOE discussed the proposed materials and heard public testimony November 2024 The SBOE will vote to approve or reject each of the materials August 2025 Public schools may begin using the approved materials in the classroom

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

students about Christianity. “The world’s major religions did not have an equal impact on the founding belief systems of our country,” Schaefer said. “They did not have an equal impact on the American and Texas legal system or Western civilization and our culture today. That’s just a fact.”

CYPRESS EDITION

Education

Cy-Fair ISD to ask Texas Legislature for more funding

The third-largest school district in Texas has rolled out its legislative priorities for the 89th Texas Legislature, which convenes in January. All four priorities are focused on securing additional funding for public schools. At an Oct. 7 board meeting, Cy-Fair ISD trustee Justin Ray said he developed the priorities alongside Superintendent Doug Killian, Chief of Sta Teresa Hull and General Counsel Marney Sims. “The next legislative session could be the most consequential for school funding for a very long time. CFISD will be leaders among school districts by robustly advocating for school funding with legislators at home and in Austin,” Ray said. The big picture CFISD’s legislative priorities include increasing the amount of funding the state provides to school districts in:

• School safety • Special education • Transportation

Cy-Fair ISD funding gaps, FY 202425 State funding received Cy-Fair ISD's Total

additional spending

Ray said some of these funding formulas have not been updated since the 1980s or 1990s, and the state’s portion of funding is not meeting the district’s needs. Additionally, the district is requesting the Texas Legislature fully fund districts oering a local optional homestead exemption. CFISD oers a 20% local optional homestead exemption that Chief Financial Ocer Karen Smith said saves the average homeowner $750 on their annual tax bill. However, the district’s reduction in taxable value results in a loss of $91 million in property tax revenue, Ray said, and the state does not make up for this loss. CFISD ocials are asking the Legislature not to penalize them for oering this exemption.

Special education

$157M

$99.37M School safety

$57.65M

$51.9M

$2.4M $49.5M Transportation

$46M

$8M $38M

SOURCE: CYFAIR ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Get involved Learn more about each of these issues and about how to reach local legislators at www.csd.net/89leg.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY DANICA LLOYD

Property tax bills to increase for Cy-Fair ISD homeowners

Local property owners will pay an average of $10.44 more in taxes to Cy-Fair ISD in scal year 2024-25 than in FY 2023-24 as the board approved increasing the property tax rate in a 5-2 vote at an Oct. 7 meeting. This higher rate, which was recommended by district administration, is expected to bring an additional $33.9 million in revenue for FY 2024-25 as CFISD faces an estimated $77.5 million budget shortfall following budget cuts. Superintendent Doug Killian said this move would help the district avoid further budget cuts in FY 2025-26. The breakdown The board approved a property tax rate of $1.0869 per $100 valuation —up from $1.0811 per $100 valuation in FY 2023-24. Community Impact previously reported CFISD could take advantage of “disaster pennies” when adopting the FY 2024-25 tax rate. According to the state’s public school funding system, this enables

Cy-Fair ISD property tax rate per $100 valuation

$1.50 $1.00 $1.10 $1.20 $1.30 $1.40

$ 1.44

$ 1.0869

$ 1.37

2023-24 $ 1.0811

2015-16

2016-17

2017-18

2018-19

2019-20

2020-21

2021-22

2022-23

2024-25

SOURCE: CYFAIR ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

districts to adopt a higher tax rate in the year following a disaster declaration to help them cover costs incurred by events such as hurricanes and oods without needing voter approval. CFISD will incorporate two disaster pennies into the tax rate after seeing a spike in insurance costs following a January 2023 tornado that hit south- east Harris County, Chief Financial Ocer Karen Smith said.

Those opposed One of the two opposing votes came from trustee Christine Kalmbach, who said she was against raising property taxes. Trustee Natalie Blasingame also opposed, saying she didn’t want to increase the tax rate unless the board reinstated bus service for all students. In June, the board unanimously approved reducing bus service as part of budget cuts.

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CYPRESS EDITION

Transportation

BY DANICA LLOYD

Sidewalks coming to N. Eldridge Parkway Harris County Precinct 3 is in the design phase on a project to add sidewalks to both sides of N. Eldridge Parkway from FM 529 to West Road and about 950 feet east of West Road in Cy-Fair. What else? O cials said the project will enhance pedestrian mobility. The project to set to be completed in the second quarter of 2025. An estimated cost has not been nalized as of press time.

Greenhouse Road extension delayed

SKINNER RD.

290

Plans to construct a six-lane underpass extend- ing Greenhouse Road from Mound Road to Skinner Road across Hwy. 290 have been delayed, Harris County Precinct 3 o cials conrmed. Preliminary engineering work began in 2019, and Community Impact previously reported a construction contract was set to be awarded this August. However, the construction timeline has been pushed back to 2026. O cials working on the project did not provide a reason for the delay as of press time. Remember this? The project has received funding through the Houston-Galveston Area Council’s Transportation Improvement Program. It is a joint project receiv- ing funding from Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 500, Harris County Precinct 3 and the Texas Department of Transportation.

Community Impact last reported the estimated construction cost was $43 million, but an updated number was not available as of press time. Also of note Additionally, Precinct 3 is set to extend Mound Road from Greenhouse Road to the former location of Hot Wells Shooting Range for improved connectivity, capacity and drainage. Phase 1 is expected to be completed by December, and Phase 2 will wrap up in the second quarter of 2025, o cials said.

E S T R

290

N. ELDRIDGE PKWY.

529

$375,000 The Thornleigh 17027 Luminous Lane Hockley, TX 77447 2,365 sq. ft., 2 Story, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath, 2-car Garage

$385,000 The Genoa 17030 Luminous Lane Hockley, TX 77447 2,290 sq. ft., 1 Story, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths, 2-car Garage

$440,000 The Baltimore 21726 Oakwood Drive Waller, TX 77484 3,092 sq. ft., 2 Story,4 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath, 2-car Garage

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$664,990 The Pinto 21915 Glasswing Drive 3,022 sq. ft., 1 Story 4 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath, 2-car Garage

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

The number of single-family homes sold in Cy-Fair dropped from 471 in September 2023 to 390 this September. On average, homes sold the fastest in ZIP code 77064 and spent the most time on the market in ZIP code 77433. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

September 2023

September 2024

-13.64%

-23.08%

-66.67%

+2.78%

-20%

-21.11%

-12.8%

77040

77064

77065

77070

77095

77429

77433

99 TOLL

77429

290

77070

1960

Median home sales price

77064

77433

249

September

2023

2024

529

$291,000 $264,000 $280,000 $315,500 $345,000 $374,000 $418,789

$335,000 $278,500 $260,000 $311,000 $315,000 $393,000 $422,836

77095

77065

77040 77064 77065 77070 77095 77429 77433

77040

Homes sold by price point

September 2024

$800,000+

$600,000-$799,999

103

$400,000-$599,999

Average days on market

+42.5%

-11.76%

+13.89%

+100%

+57.69%

+44.12%

+1.61%

216

$200,000-$399,999

<$200,000

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY BOUTWELL PROPERTIES 17506 BOBCAT TRAIL, CYPRESS. 2813058533. OFFICETHEBOUTWELLTEAM.COM

77040

77064

77065

77070

77095

77429

77433

9212 Fry Rd., Suite 100 Cypress, TX 77433 713.852.6700 TexasBayCU.org

CYPRESS EDITION

Local entities combat human tra cking in Cy-Fair From the cover

Put in perspective

Massage establishments closed due to suspected human tra cking

1 D & B Foot Massage • License revoked Sept. 24 • Closed as of press time 2 Foot Re exology Star • License revoked May 30 • Reopened June 26 under new ownership 3 Gen Spa • License revoked July 22 • Reopened July 24 under new ownership 4 Ly Massage • License revoked June 24 • Reopened July 8 under new ownership and changed name to Massage 5 Sunny Foot Massage • License revoked June 24 • Reopened July 8 under new ownership and changed name to SF Massage

99 TOLL

Because illicit massage businesses are a common venue for human tra cking, TDLR o cials perform unscheduled inspections at least once every two to four years. In late May, Hsin Wei Chen was ordered to temporarily close Foot Re exology Star—the rst business aected by HB 3579. He later had eight massage business licenses revoked; three were in Cy-Fair, according to a June 24 news release. “For too long, human tra ckers have been able to hide what they’ve been doing in massage establishments. But now, with this law in place, we will work with our local law enforcement partners to take the ght to these tra ckers,” Brian E. Francis, the TDLR’s interim executive director at the time, said in the release. After Chen failed to comply with the emergency order, the TDLR obtained a permanent injunction, per a Sept. 19 news release. He can no longer own, operate, manage or work in massage establishments in Texas. In July, Changjiang Zhong, owner of Gen Spa in Cy-Fair, agreed to a permanent license revocation for two businesses licensed there. In September, Yu Sheng Chen agreed to close 10 establishments, including D & B Foot Massage in Cy-Fair. Per the TDLR, potential signs of tra cking in these cases included:

249

R D .

290

1960

529

YORKRD.

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION§COMMUNITY IMPACT

• Evidence that employees were living there When an emergency order is issued, TDLR o cials visit the location with representatives of anti- tra cking organizations to assist any employees who want services.

• An ATM in the lobby • Advertisements showing 24-hour operations • Lingerie and high heels in the laundry area • Unlicensed employees providing massages

By the numbers

What the experts say

Human tra cking reports in the Houston area

Several Houston-area nonprots have programs dedicated to supporting human tra cking survivors. Michelle Temofonte, clinical director at Shield Bearer Counseling Centers based in Cy-Fair, said the organization had 12,097 individuals seek counseling services due to human tra cking trauma in 2023. While experts said psychological healing is an imperative part of human tra cking survivors’ recovery process, other resources organizations provide include safe housing, education, economic empowerment courses, a supportive community and transportation. The Houston Area Women’s Center has served more than 86 human tra cking survivors in 2024 as of Sept. 12, o cials said. Redeemed Ministries, based in the north Houston area, has helped more than 150 women escape human tra cking since 2005, Executive Director Bobby Mark said. “It is one of the easiest crimes for criminals to

Number of cases led

“We know what trauma does to the brain and how scary and dangerous it is for them. They will have to relearn how to think about themselves ... because they’ve been shut down during that life.” MICHELLE TEMOFONTE, CLINICAL DIRECTOR, SHIELD BEARER COUNSELING CENTERS “We’ve seen many municipalities use [HB 3579] to help ght to clean up their communities. ... I am currently working with TDLR to expand this bill next session to go after hotels and motels.” STATE REP. BEN BUMGARNER, R FLOWER MOUND

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024*

*THROUGH AUGUST

SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICECOMMUNITY IMPACT

commit,” Mark said. “It’s easier to sell a human being than it is to sell a bag of drugs because the human being will lie to the police and say, ‘I’m ne; there is nothing wrong,’ much like a domestic violence victim because [they] are attached in some way or are being threatened in some way.”

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Oering input

Keep in mind

Human tra cking resources

Mark said human tra cking perpetrators target vulnerable individuals such as children who have endured abusive households, are in foster care or live in poverty. “We’ve actually had residents whose parents were their tra ckers when they were as young as 4 years old, trading them to pay the rent on the apartment,” Mark said. Leticia Manzano, manager of sexual violence services at the Houston Area Women’s Center, said human tra cking often occurs in establishments that act as fronts for typical businesses such as massage spas, bars and modeling agencies. “I often think of an immigrant client that I serve who someone told her, ‘This place is hiring,’ and so she started o just cleaning this spa, and then eventually she was forced to give a client a massage,” Manzano said. Jorge Alaniz, a sergeant with the Harris County Sheri’s O ce, said their biggest human tra ck- ing cases often involve young girls in foster care

According to the TDLR, signs of human tracking among employees working at businesses include: • Visible injuries such as bruises, redness or swelling • Gang signs, tattoos, new high-end clothing • Sexually provocative clothing inappropriate for weather or situation • Employees are not allowed or are unable to speak for themselves or make their own decisions • Employees are fearful of authorities • Third-party control of identity documents • Claim of boyfriend or girlfriend relationship with an older individual How to report human tracking • National Human Traf icking Hotline: www.humantrafickinghotline.org/ report-traficking

Shield Bearer Counseling Centers: 281-894-7222 Houston Area Women’s Center: 713-528-6798 Anyone seeking help to recover or nd a sanctuary from human tracking can reach out to:

Redeemed Ministries: 832-447-4130 National Human Tracking Hotline: call 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733

SOURCE: HUMAN TRAFFICKING ORGANIZATIONSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

who are manipulated into prostitution. “Human tra cking is not a victimless crime,” Alaniz said. “People think that because it’s two adults consenting to sex that no one’s really being hurt, and that’s a big misconception because they don’t understand that people are being forced through threats and coercion.” Alaniz also said human tra cking is typically seen in businesses such as massage parlors, nail salons, cantinas and among people who are forced to sell ¡owers on the side of the road.

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CYPRESS EDITION

Community Volunteer Guide

2024

Learn more about volunteer and donation opportunities in the Cy-Fair community. For specic volunteer requirements, contact the organization directly. This list is not comprehensive.

veterans, senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, with resources. The organization has programs that help educate individuals and families about the resources in their communities. • Sample activities: Work on the Oasis Garden on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month • Donations accepted: Monetary support, refreshments on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month to support garden volunteers • 12527 Cypress N. Houston Road, Cypress • www.livinglegacycenter.com MESA Outreach MESA Outreach is dedicated to fostering a nourished and empowered community in northwest Harris County through the food pantry, educational scholarships and school supply drive programs. • Sample activities: Bilingual volunteers who can assist with registration; help at the food pantry; pick up groceries; and volunteer at special events throughout the year • Donations accepted: In-kind and monetary donations, nonperishable food items such as canned vegetables

supplies, gift cards, stock, legacy (will) • 12337 Jones Road, Ste. 114, Houston • www.shieldbearer.org

Special needs

Civic participation

Reach Unlimited The organization provides comprehensive programs and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Greater Houston area. • Sample activities: Play kickball, read books, play games, do arts and crafts, bake • Donations accepted: School supplies, monetary support in forms of cash or gift cards for fast-food places or grocery stores, auction items for fundraisers • 11832 Mueller Cemetery Road, Cypress • www.reachunlimited.org

League of Women Voters of Cy-Fair The Cy-Fair unit of the League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization dedicated to protecting voter rights and empowering voters by promoting citizen involvement through voter registration and voting. • Sample activities: Register eligible voters, educate voters on the voting process • Donations accepted: Monetary donations • www.lwvtexas.org/cy-fair

Community aid

Youth and families

Cy-Fair Helping Hands The organization serves unhoused and hungry people. Programs include a food pantry, a Day Center for people without housing and transitional family services that shelter families with children. • Sample activities: Work in the food pantry, assist people without housing in the Day Center, go on street outreach and work as a case worker for those without housing, pick up groceries and work as a shuttle driver to bring homeless people to the Day Center • Donations accepted: Monetary donations, food, new backpacks, school supplies, toys for Christmas, gift cards for turkeys at Thanksgiving Cy-Fair Women’s Club The nonprot community service organization of women aims to create a positive impact in Cy-Fair area. • Sample activities: Help at the annual fundraiser on the second Saturday of September each year • Donations accepted: Financial and tangible items designated by the service projects committee • P.O. Box 2173, Cypress • www.cyfairwomensclub.org Houston Cy-Fair Lions Club The Cy-Fair chapter of the Lions Club was started in 1957 and has programs to preserve people’s vision, raise awareness for diabetes, provide disaster relief and humanitarian aid. • Sample activities: Volunteer at community events, eye screenings, food drives or clean-up drives • Donations accepted: In-kind and monetary donations, nonperishable food items, knitted hats and gloves • P.O. Box 40264, Houston • www.houstoncy-fairlions.org • 9204 Emmott Road, Houston • www.cyfairhelpinghands.org

Cy-Fair ISD Cy-Fair ISD’s Volunteers in Public Schools program has opportunities for community members to mentor students and assist with campus and community events. Interested applicants should contact the community engagement department. • Sample activities: Mentoring, reading to classrooms, assisting with ield days, festivals and picture days, presenting animal demonstrations to elementary classes, assisting in the library • Donations accepted: Not applicable • 11440 Matzke Road, Cypress • www.cisd.net Cy-Hope The nonprot organization’s goal is to make life better for children in Cy-Fair by educating and empowering them. Programs oered include Dierker’s Champs baseball league and sending children in need home with a backpack full of food each weekend. • Sample activities: Mentoring children, serving as umpires, coaching kids, delivering donations • Donations accepted: School supplies, backpacks, canned food, household cleaning items, individually packaged snacks, gift cards for fast-food and grocery stores • 12715 Telge Road, Cypress • www.cy-hope.org Two Lives Changed The nonprot organization oers a supportive and loving community for families ages 13-30. The group’s mission revolves around supporting, educating and breaking the cycle of distress for young families. • Sample activities: Help with child care while parents focus on learning, provide a meal monthly or quarterly for the group, mentor young parents, help with baby showers • Donations accepted: Diapers, wipes, gently used or new baby clothes, other baby or children items

and fruit, cereal, peanut butter and jelly • 16000 Rippling Water Drive, Houston • www.mesa-outreach.org

Health and safety

Cypress Creek Fire Department Cypress Creek Fire Department is an emergency services department serving 33 square miles within Harris County through re suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, rescue, re prevention, public education and community outreach. • Sample activities: Provide hydration, cooling practices, nutritious snacks and other replenishments during trainings and major incidents • Donations accepted: Monetary donations • 11900 Cypress N. Houston, Cypress • www.cypresscreekire.com licensed beds and oers emergency care, cardiology, comprehensive women’s services, neurology and neurosurgery, oncology, and primary and general medicine. • Sample activities: Assisting patients and staff • Donations accepted: Call the volunteer services team at 281-737-1063 for more information. • 18220 Hwy. 249, Houston • www.houstonmethodist.org/volunteer Houston Methodist Willowbrook The not-for-prot, faith-based hospital has 358 Shield Bearer Counseling Centers The faith-based nonprot provides compassionate and professional counseling services to individuals, couples and families. • Sample activities: Work at community events and fundraisers, help with administrative and ofice tasks, outreach on social media and in person • Donations accepted: Monetary support, ofice

• 18081 West Road, Houston • www.twoliveschanged.org

The Living Legacy Center The organization connects individuals, including

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Community aid

Sleep in Heavenly Peace-Houston North chapter The organization builds and delivers beds to kids who do not have a bed of their own. • Sample activities: Help deliver and assemble beds for kids, help contact families requesting beds, help with organizational tasks • Donations accepted: Bed in a bag for a standard twin-size bed for kids ages 3-17, monetary donations • P.O. Box 680862, Houston • www.shpbeds.org

Cypress Assistance Ministries The faith-based organization serves individuals and families in nancial crisis, the elderly and unemployed people. • Sample activities: Serve in the donation center,

Angels’ Attic Resale Store or food pantry, work as a resume writer, help with administrative tasks • Donations accepted: Monetary donations, in-kind donations, food and toiletries, backpacks • 12930 Cypress N. Houston Road, Cypress • www.cypressassistance.org

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CYPRESS EDITION

Events

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

BY ATIRIKTA KUMAR & DANICA LLOYD

• Dec. 7: Brett Axelson, 6:30 p.m. The Hidden Cellar Wine Bar 16518 House & Hahl Road, Cypress www.hiddencellarcypress.com • Nov. 15: Mike Amabile, 7 p.m. • Nov. 16: Lisa Whitley, 7 p.m. • Nov. 27: Juba Normand, 7 p.m. • Nov. 29: Ricky Montijo, 7 p.m. • Nov. 30: Tyler Hodgson, 7 p.m. • Dec. 5: Ricky Montijo, 7 p.m. • Dec. 6: Mike Amabile, 7 p.m. • Dec. 7: Pete Scaidi, 7 p.m. Salt & Sugar Gastro Bar 16010 West Road, Houston www.saltandsugarhtx.com • Nov. 15: Saxofon, 6 p.m. • Nov. 22: Paul Joseph, 6 p.m. • Dec. 6: Fire NR Bones, 6 p.m. • Dec. 13: Saxofon, 6 p.m. Vintage Park • Nov. 21: Nik Rincon, 7 p.m. • Nov. 22: Scott Byers, 7 p.m. • Nov. 23: Bryan Scott & Donovan Luu, 7 p.m.

• 12205 Fry Road, Cypress • www.cy-hopegolf.org

• $6 (admission) • 8877 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress • Facebook: CyFairHolidayExtravaganza

November

Live music

Festival of Trees Cy-Fair Helping Hands hosts this holiday-themed event to raise funds for its programming, which supports the homeless and hungry in Cy-Fair. • Nov. 9, 7-10 p.m. (VIP hour at 6 p.m.) • $100 (individual ticket), sponsorships available • 16536 Mueschke Road, Cypress • www.cyfairhelpinghands.org/fot2024 Native American Pow Wow Traders Village will host the third annual Native American Pow Wow competition. Patrons can enjoy amusement park rides, food and drinks. • Nov. 9 and 10, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. • Free (admission) • 7979 N. Eldridge Parkway, Houston • www.tradersvillage.com Larry Dierker Celebrity Golf Shootout This Cy-Hope fundraiser includes lunch, drinks, dinner, a rae, player gifts and a round of golf with celebrity athletes at BlackHorse Golf Club. • Nov. 12, 10 a.m. • $2,000 (team of four), $25 (dinner ticket for non- golfers)

The Barn at Frio Grill 16416 Mueschke Road, Cypress www.friogrill.com • Nov. 15: Yacht Rock USA, 6 p.m. • Nov. 16: Moving Pictures, 6 p.m. • Nov. 22: Nightbird, 6 p.m.

Light the Towne The Boardwalk at Towne Lake celebrates a tree lighting at this event featuring Santa, elves, carolers, hot chocolate, snow, a photo booth, balloon artists and more.

December

13th annual Candy Cane Fun Run All proceeds from the fun run will directly go toward local Cy-Fair ISD schools, including Ault Elementary, Keith Elementary, Swenke Elementary and Salyards Middle School. Registration for the event, taking place at Salyards Middle School, ends at 8:50 a.m. on the day of the event. • Dec. 7, 9 a.m. • $40 (ages 13 and up), $25 (ages 12 and under) ‘The Nutcracker’ Houston Repertoire Ballet will present its annual production of “The Nutcracker.” This is the £rst year the organization will stage the production at Cy-Fair ISD’s Visual and Performing Arts Center. • Dec. 7, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Dec. 8, 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. • $25-$35 (general admission), $20-$30 (children and seniors) • 21757 Fairield Place, Cypress • Facebook: Candy Cane Fun Run

• Nov. 21, 6-8 p.m. • Free (admission) • 9955 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress • www.boardwalktl.com

Boardwalk at Towne Lake 9945 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress www.boardwalktl.com • Nov. 15: Taylor Marberry, 6:30 p.m. • Nov. 16: Pedro Latouf, 11 a.m. • Nov. 16: Dan Golvach, 6:30 p.m. • Nov. 22: Alejandro Miramontes, 6:30 p.m. • Nov. 23: Purple Moon, 6:30 p.m. • Nov. 29: Paul Byron, 6:30 p.m. • Nov. 30: Tianna Hall Duo, 6:30 p.m. Creekwood Grill

Jersey Meadow Golf Course Clubhouse and Convention Center grand opening This celebration features raes, golf challenges, children’s activities, music, food, drinks and a cornhole competition at the new clubhouse.

Nightbird is performing at The Barn at Frio Grill on Nov. 22.

• Nov. 22, 4-8 p.m. • Free (admission) • 8502 Rio Grande St., Jersey Village • www.jerseymeadow.com

COURTESY NIGHTBIRD

• Nov. 15: Xian Eric, 7 p.m. • Nov. 16: Justin LeBlanc, 7 p.m. • Nov. 21: Jerry Rowell, 7 p.m. • Nov. 22: Luis Chacon, 7 p.m. • Nov. 23: Dan Golvach, 7 p.m. • Nov. 29: Louis Lamb, 7 p.m. • Nov. 30: JAWAD, 7 p.m.

Cy-Fair Nutcracker Market A market features over 280 small businesses o¨ering clothing, handmade jewelry, home and holiday decor items, and gourmet food items at the Berry Center. • Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

12710 Telge Road, Cypress www.creekwoodgrill.com • Nov. 15: Mark Ward, 6:30 p.m. • Nov. 16: Nate Gordon and Daryl Skeeters, 6:30 p.m.

110 Vintage Park Blvd., Houston www.vintageparkhouston.com

• 11420 Matzke Road, Cypress • www.hrbdance.org/nutcracker

• Nov. 22: Katy Katie, 6:30 p.m. • Dec. 6: Mike Gilbert, 6:30 p.m.

CYPRESS ROSEHILL 14315 Cypress Rosehill (281) 373-2999

SPRING CYPRESS 22508 Hwy 249 (281) 379-7383 BARKER CYPRESS 17996 FM 529 (281) 656-4200

HUFFMEISTER 8945 Hwy 6 N (281) 859-5879

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