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Cy-Fair Edition VOLUME 15, ISSUE 4 DEC. 6, 2023 JAN. 11, 2024
Killian set to lead Cy-Fair ISD
BY DAVE MANNING
The Cy-Fair ISD board of trustees unanimously approved Doug Killian as the lone nalist in the search for a new superintendent Nov. 13, concluding a ve-month search process. Killian will replace Superintendent Mark Henry, who held the post for 12 years. Henry’s retirement is eective this December, he announced in a May 8 message to the community. CFISD trustees who participated in the search process noted Killian’s dedication to service; his com- mitment to students’ welfare in supportive learning environments; his understanding of school nance and other legislative issues; and his readiness to embrace the district’s motto of “Opportunity for All.” Killian has 20 years of superin- tendent experience and is currently the superintendent of Pugerville ISD, where he has served since 2017. Prior to PfISD, Killian served as superintendent for Hutto, Human and Poteet ISDs. He began his career in United ISD as a rst grade teacher, according to a CFISD news release.
“I’d just like to say to the community of Cy-Fair that I do take the job very seriously; that it's a trust. And it's a job where I serve, and I want to commit to everybody here that I will serve the community in the best interests of children for the entire time I'm here.” DOUG KILLIAN, PFLUGERVILLE ISD SUPERINTENDENT
Cy-Fair ISD’s next superintendent, Doug Killian (left), and retiring superintendent Mark Henry support their alma maters at a Nov. 13 board meeting with Texas A&M University’s “Gig ‘em Aggies” and The University of Texas’ “Hook ‘em Horns” hand signals, respectively.
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COURTESY CYFAIR ISD
Also in this issue
Impacts: Crave Fusion Bistro & Cocktails opens in Cypress (Page 6)
Election: See outcomes of the Nov. 7 ballot items (Page 11)
Community: Where to shop for holiday gifts locally (Page 16)
Dining: Tequilas Mexican Bar & Grill serves fresh Tex-Mex (Page 26)
FLOAT ON! It’s time to get your
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CYFAIR EDITION
Impacts
• Opened Nov. 15 • 12215 Grant Road, Ste. E, Cypress • Facebook: Pichurro’s Mexican Grill - Cypress 5 Baker St. Pub & Grill The pub features a full bar as well as British and
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• 22432 Hwy. 249, Houston • www.bakerstreetpub.com
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6 Vuori Houston Premium Outlets has opened Vuori, a California-based athleisure brand. • Opened Oct. 6 • 29300 Hempstead Road, Cypress • www.vuoriclothing.com 7 Hope Church The Christian church hosts Sunday services at 10 a.m. and oers a children’s ministry during services. • Opened Sept. 17 • 8301 Jones Road, Ste. 170, Jersey Village • www.hopechurchhouston.org 8 Popshelf The retailer oers merchandise priced at $5 or less, such as home decor, beauty items and cleaning supplies. • Opened Nov. 1 • 13244 Hwy. 290, Houston • www.popshelf.com 9 Moroccan Beauty Center The business provides facial treatments and hair, nail, waxing, microblading and makeup services. • Opened Sept. 19
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• Opened Nov. 9 • 18818 Hwy. 249, Houston • www.t2t.org/homeless-veteran-program 3 Charlie’s Sports Bar The new sports bar oers chicken tenders, wings, jalapeno peppers and other classic bar fare. • Grand opening held Dec. 1
Now open
1 Crave Fusion Bistro & Cocktails The eatery serves steak and seafood, such as grilled sh and crab cakes. The venue also oers a full bar. • Opened Oct. 28 • 11702 Grant Road, Ste. C, Cypress • www.cravebistro.com 2 Houston Veterans Village Tunnel to Towers Foundation renovated a Holiday Inn with 161 rooms for veteran housing.
• 16718 House & Hahl Road, Cypress • www.moroccanbeautycenter.com
Resume + Coee Karen Jackson oers remote and in-person resume and cover letter consulting as well as interview preparation. • Opened Aug. 4 • www.resumeandcoffee.com
• 8945 Hwy. 6 N., Ste. 290, Houston • www.facebook.com/charlies281
4 Pichurro’s Mexican Grill The family-owned eatery serves Tex-Mex dishes.
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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Coming soon
Now open
In the news
10 The Daly Round The indoor golf facility and lounge oers a full bar and opportunities for team-building events and parties. • Opening in late 2023 • 11734 Barker Cypress Road, Ste. 116, Cypress • www.thedalyround.com
Relocations
11 Jersey Bagels Known for its hand-rolled bagels, the shop relocated to a larger space within the same shopping center. • Relocated in November • 9522 Huffmeister Road, Ste. 500, Houston • www.facebook.com/jerseybagels 12 HappiNest Marriage & Family Therapy Led by Rachel Higgins, the therapy o¤ce recently relocated from 17302 House & Hahl Road, Cypress. • Relocated in August • 17110 House & Hahl Road, Ste. C-13, Cypress • www.happinestmarriageandfamilytherapy.com 13 Cypress Dermatology The practice oers medical and cosmetic dermatology services and is relocating from Hwy. 290. • Relocating Dec. 15 14 Class 101 The franchise helps students prepare for college. It relocated from House & Hahl Road to a larger space. • Relocated Oct. 1 • 10242 Greenhouse Road, Ste. 301, Cypress • www.class101.com 15 Casari’s Paint & Body Shop The family-owned paint and body shop recently relocated from Windfern Road. • 14930 Mueschke Road, Cypress • www.cypressdermatology.com
16 Mochinut The brand oers mochi doughnuts, pastries that are a fusion of traditional American doughnuts and Japanese mochi. Korean rice our hotdogs, bubble tea drinks and soft serve are also on the menu. • Opened in mid-November • 12344 Barker Cypress Road, Ste. 140, Cypress • www.mochinut.com
18 Redsh Seafood Grill The restaurant celebrated its 20th anniversary Nov. 24. Locally owned and operated by Rolita and David Chang, the longstanding restaurant specializes in fusion cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and sushi. In addition to lunch and dinner specials, the eatery also oers happy hour specials and a full bar.
• 19550 Hwy. 249, Houston • www.red§ishhouston.com
• Relocated Oct. 15 • 18107 Longenbaugh Drive, Ste. E, Cypress • 832-812-6728
In the news
19 BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse According to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, construction is slated to start later this year. BJ’s serves pizzas, burgers, salads, steaks and more.
Expansions
17 Drake Plastics The local plastics company broke ground on its new 140,000-square-foot headquarters on Nov. 3. • Opening TBD • 14869 Grant Road, Cypress • www.drakeplastics.com
• 25660 Hwy. 290, Cypress • www.bjsrestaurants.com
20 Shaka Power Yoga The business is celebrating its fth anniversary throughout December with a free week for new students. • 10611 Fry Road, Ste. 250, Cypress • www.shakapoweryoga.com
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CY FAIR EDITION
Government
BY MELISSA ENAJE
Harris County approves $863M ood agreement Harris County commissioners approved an agreement with the Texas General Land Oce Oct. 31 for a combined $863 million in grant funding to the Harris County Flood Control District that will be allocated for ood-risk reduction projects associated with the 2018 ood control district bond program. Explained Two grants were approved, and each grant has dierent mandated completion dates, according to court documents. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and is administered by the GLO. • Projects funded by a $322 million grant must be completed by March 31, 2026. Projects funded by a $541 million grant must be completed by March 31, 2028.
Harris County awards child care grants Harris County commissioners awarded ve organizations a combined $18.8 million in grants Oct. 31 to improve child care quality over the next three years. The new initiative is called Early Learning Quality Networks and was fully funded by American Rescue Plan Act funds. The impact A July report by nonprot Children at Risk found one-third of all ZIP codes in Texas qualify as child care deserts, meaning there are at least three times more children eligi- ble for early child care than the number of available seats. Children at Risk is one of the ve groups to receive funds, alongside the East Harris County Empowerment Council, VN Teamwork, YMCA of Greater Houston and Harris County Public Library.
June 6 Harris County commissioners approve application to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for disaster recovery funding. July 18 Commissioners authorize the Harris County Flood Control District to work with the state on a direct allocation of $502.5 million . During negotiations, an additional $39.35 million was oered by the GLO, resulting in the total allocation of $541.85 million . October 31 Commissioners approve the combined $863.88 million in federal funds, including a past allocation of $322.03 million in Community Development Block grants.
SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICTCOMMUNITY IMPACT
CFISD: WHERE high standards MEET
$ 1.00 $ 1.05 $ 1.10 $ 1.15 $ 1.20 $ 1.25 $ 1.30 $ 1.35 $ 1.40 $ 1.45 $ 1.50
$ 1.4500
$ 1.4500
$ 1.4400
$ 1.4400
$ 1.4400
$ 1.4400
$ 1.4400
$ 1.3700
$ 1.3555
$ 1.3392
$ 1.2948
$ 1.0811
CONDENSED WIDE - WHITE
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2023
2021
2020
2022
2012
2013
The CFISD Board of Trustees unanimously voted to approve the 2023 tax rate of $ 1.0811 during the regularly scheduled meeting on October 9. The tax rate is the lowest in 37 years .
OPPORTUNITY for ALL.
Learn more about CFISD’s fiscal integrity at CFISD.net.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY MELISSA ENAJE & JESSICA SHORTEN
Local governments are now looking to obligate and use any remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds before an upcoming December 2024 federal deadline. Counties received lump distributions of federal funding in 2021 to ll public revenue losses, invest in broadband and other infrastructure projects, and provide additional pay for essential workers, according to the U.S. Department of Treasury in a news release. Three of the counties which received funding in the Houston area include: • Harris: $915.5 million • Montgomery: $117.9 million • Fort Bend: $157.6 million Any funding not obligated by December 2024 and spent by the end of 2025 must be returned to the U.S. Treasury. County ocials must decide how to use remaining funding and continue supporting pandemic-era programs and employees. Counties balance ARPA shortfalls
ARPA funding allocations
Allocated
Unallocated
AS OF NOVEMBER
Harris County
Montgomery County
Fort Bend County
$158M
$7.4M
$40M
$915.5M Total
$117.9M Total
$157.6M Total
$757M
$110.5M
$117.3M
Jobs and education Housing Health Justice and safety
County operations
Remaining
$227.3M
$192.8M
$141.5M
Harris County
$147.5M
$47.5M
$158M
$39.8M
$42.4M
$2.9M
Montgomery County
$13.2M $11.6M
$7.4M
County ocials divided ARPA funding to meet the prioritized needs of each county.
$56.3M
$27.7M
Fort Bend County
$31.8M
$1.4M
$40M
SOURCES: HARRIS, MONTGOMERY, FORT BEND COUNTIESCOMMUNITY IMPACT
Zooming in
What the experts say
Stay tuned
One of the major expenses counties may need to cover are employees funded by ARPA. In all three counties, a number of employees were hired for positions on mental health teams, law enforce- ment and general infrastructure projects, such as a $21 million contract in Montgomery County to reopen a Tri-County Behavioral Healthcare center and a contract to expand the Harris County jail- based competency restoration program. During scal year 2023-24 budget workshops, all three counties outlined how to spend the remaining funds on new projects and infrastruc- ture eorts, while also considering the salaries which may need to be absorbed by the counties or eliminated once funding is depleted. According to ocials in each county, Harris County’s remaining funds are being targeted toward additional aordable housing eorts. Montgomery County reserved roughly $2 million to fund another year of salaries for ARPA-based employees. Fort Bend County pushed to help additional small businesses with employee funding and grants.
James Thurmond, professor at Hobby School of Public Aairs, said the one-time federal payout was historic for counties and provided an easy way to ll budget holes without requesting additional tax dollars. While ARPA funding was intended to help replace lost public sector revenue to counties, the responsibility of monitoring any budget decits with county funds fell to the counties themselves.
During the FY 2024-25 budget workshops next year, ocials with Harris and Montgomery counties said they will need to discuss employee and program needs to determine whether positions and programs have to be cut or if they can be sustained on county budgets or grants.
ARPA funding deadlines
December 2024: Deadline to allocate remaining funds December 2025: Deadline to spend remaining funds December 2026: Deadline to have all unused funding returned to Treasury
“You just need to be aware when you create a new demand or a new service, is it sustainable with your
current revenue? If it’s not sustainable, then what do you cut? “ JAMES THURMOND, PROFESSOR, UH HOBBY SCHOOL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS
SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TREASURYCOMMUNITY IMPACT
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CY FAIR EDITION
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Election
BY HANNAH BROL, MELISSA ENAJE & LIZZY SPANGLER
Harris Health’s $2.5B hospital bond approved Harris County voters approved funding Harris Health System’s $2.5 billion bond with 72% sup- port on Nov. 7. Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia called the bond passage a “huge win” in his ocial statement. The background The bond funding will allow the system to replace and renovate Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital; expand the capacity of Ben Taub Hospital; and create new community clinics in precincts 2, 3 and 4. HHS CEO and President Esmaeil Porsa said the hospitals have failing infrastructure, and the county population is rapidly growing. The system is mandated by law to provide health care services to the uninsured and underinsured populations, but also serves the entire county. The bond is expected to cost the owner of a $300,000 property $6 more per month in taxes.
Voters approve 2 of 3 Jersey Village bond propositions Voters approved two of Jersey Village’s three bond propositions on the Nov. 7 ballot. • Proposition A would have issued $19 million in bonds for pool and park renovations, but 59.27% of voters didn’t support it. • Propositions B and C were approved. They will authorize the issuance of $15.8 million in bonds for water and sewer improvements and $18 million in bonds for road and bridge repairs, respectively. What they’re saying “With these funds, we’re not just xing problems, we’re investing in our future,” Mayor Bobby Warren said in an email Nov. 8.
In one year, Harris Health System serves:
854,313 clinic visits
147,496 emergency room visits
193,727 telehealth clinic visits
SOURCE: HARRIS HEALTH SYSTEMCOMMUNITY IMPACT
A closer look Texas has the highest rate of uninsured people in the country, according to the 2021 American Community Survey 5-year estimates. In Houston, 1 in 4 people are without health insurance. Harris County’s population also continues to grow, making the county’s health system insucient in meeting current needs and future demands, HHS ocials said. Both hospitals run by HHS are operating at over 90%-100% daily occupancy.
Harris County ESD 13 has successful tax rate election
Harris County Emergency Services District No. 13
Department, in an emailed statement Nov. 8. How we got here ESD 13’s commissioners opted to hold a tax rate election to help meet the needs of the Cypress Creek Fire Department in 2023-24. The district will maintain its tax rate of $0.091852 per $100 valua- tion instead of having to lower it due to legislative mandates.
Voters approved Harris County Emergency Services District No. 13’s tax rate election Nov. 7. According to the Harris County Clerk’s Oce, 62% of voters were in favor. “This will help us fund the projects ... including new apparatus and a maintenance facility, as well as helping the overall budget cope with the in¡ationary pressures everyone is experiencing,” said Richard Lieder, chief of the Cypress Creek Fire
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SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT NO. 13COMMUNITY IMPACT
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Education
BY DAVE MANNING
Cy-Fair ISD board President Tom Jackson participates in Read Across America Day 2022.
TONY BULLARDCOMMUNITY IMPACT
COURTESY CY FAIR ISD
Cy-Fair ISD board President Tom Jackson retires from trustee service after 12 years Cy-Fair ISD board President Tom Jackson has been a trustee since 2011 and did not seek re- election in November.
sub-population. There are several other areas: • Language immersion • Summer academic camps • Layers of safety • Higher salaries for teachers and sta • Enhanced technology capabilities of the district • Attractive and functional security fencing • Enhanced academic focus for athletes Is there anything you would have changed about your time on the board? If I had more time to give, I would spend even more time cultivating relationships with elected ocials to advocate for appropriate funding for the district. What sets CFISD apart from other school districts? Like all schools, we believe in opportunity for all. The dierence is how you implement the concept. We are somewhat unique in that we believe in asset protection, which translates into renovations at older campuses so that facilities provide similar benets irrespective of where you live. For example, we have librarians and pro- fessional nurses at all campuses in addition to reading and math specialists. The large campus footprint means we have no need for specialty campuses. For example, every high school has well developed [career and technical education]
oerings [including] welding shop, culinary department and cosmetology department. Every high school oers advanced placement and dual- credit opportunities for students. What are the pros and cons of having newer faces on the board following the Nov. 7 election? A benet is you have a completely fresh view. In my experience, it takes at least two years for a trustee to understand their job, and the scope of their job is much larger than their talking points on the campaign trail. Across the state, new board members are challenged by the concept that they’re part of a team with the superintendent. This takes time. What led to you serving the Cy-Fair community in so many capacities? As a child, I observed my parents and grandpar- ents helping others and being active in the com- munity. They never said, “This is what you should do.” But since they were active, I understood that this was [an appropriate path].
A certied public accountant by trade, Jackson said he devoted hundreds of hours of annual ser- vice for the district while serving as president of Green River Oil. He has been a member of several boards in the Cy-Fair community, and his three children attended CFISD schools. Jackson reected on his time on the board in a September interview. Why did you not seek re-election? When I rst ran as a trustee, I had already predetermined in my mind that I would serve either two or three terms, if the voters wanted me to serve. Three terms—or 12 years—is the academic cycle of a student. What are some of the accomplishments of the board during your tenure for which you are most proud? For the entire 12 years that I’ve been on the board, this district has been identied by an independent third party as among the top three districts in the state for being both eective and ecient ... based on funding provided over that time period [and] given its demographic makeup. In addition, the district—when compared to its peer group of very large districts, the state and the region—has outperformed in graduation and testing categories in every grade and every demographic
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com .
13
CYFAIR EDITION
FThroamt’sawnhuynexpected fall to sudden chest pain, nobody plans for an emergency. HCA Houston ER 24/7 has conveniently located emergency rooms that are ready to serve your family with quick emergency care when you need it most. Sde mi cr aeencr tgti ooe nnl ecs ayt rocneamn ft oreerr ee n- oes rta art noy dogi une . gt Adult and pediatric care On-site X-rays, ultrasounds and CT scans Short ER wait times
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY APRIL KELLEY
Streak of daily trac fatalities reaches 23 years in Texas
Nov. 7 marked 23 years of daily tra c fatalities on Texas roadways, according to the Texas Depart- ment of Transportation. The gist According to TxDOT, Texas has not had one day without a tra c fatality since Nov. 7, 2000, and more than 83,000 people have lost their lives on roadways since. While there was one day in February which has a single tra c fatality, an average of 12 deaths occur on Texas roadways daily, according to a Nov. 7 news release. “Each life lost means a family, neighborhood and community are impacted for a lifetime, and we take safety very seriously as we work to end this horrible streak,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said in the release. “But it’s going to take all of us working together to get this done.” A total of 4,481 tra c fatalities occurred in 2022 in Texas, down 16 from the 4,497 that occurred
5K 4K 3K 2K 1K 0 Tra c fatalities 20032023
*AS OF OCT. 6
17.24% increase from 2003-2022.
SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT
in 2021, according to TxDOT. Tra c fatalities, however, were higher in 2022 than they were in 2020, which saw 3,896 total tra c fatalities. Background TxDOT launched its #EndTheStreakTX cam- paign Nov. 15, 2016, to raise awareness of daily tra c fatalities and to encourage safe driving, with
the goal of ending the daily streak of deaths. TxDOT asks all Texans to: • Make the best and safest decisions behind the wheel. • Don’t drive under the inuence of alcohol and/or drugs. • Always wear a seat belt and obey tra c laws.
15
CYFAIR EDITION
Community
BY JOVANNA AGUILAR & DANICA LLOYD
Holiday Gift Guide
2023
For the crafter
For the unique
For the sweet tooth
Kani Kettu Kani Kettu oers yarns from Nordic countries as well as all-natural bers, such as alpaca; wool; and a selection of plant ber yarns, including linen, bamboo and cotton. Holiday promotions include a $25 gift card for those who register for a 60-minute crochet class as well as a $5 bonus plus a free sticker for every $50 gift card purchase. Customers who purchase six skeins of yarn will get one free, and patterns will be 25% o in-store. • 10211 Cypresswood Drive, Ste. 600, Houston • www.kanikettu.com
Lizzy G’s Fine Gifts The gift shop sells art and decor, jewelry, loungewear, stationery and accessories. Customer favorites include Kendra Scott jewelry, NEST candles, Nora Fleming tableware, Barefoot Dreams loungewear as well as a wide selection of new products for the holidays. Free gift wrapping is available. The shop will be open until 8 p.m. on Dec. 23 for a last-minute holiday shopping party with complimentary wine, cupcakes and giveaways. • 126-L Vintage Park Blvd., Houston • www.lizzygsªinegifts.com
Gulf Coast Bread Pudding Gulf Coast Bread Pudding is a gourmet bread pudding company that oers ¤avors including white chocolate, vanilla, pumpkin, coconut and banana pudding. The bread pudding shop also has special seasonal ¤avors on the menu for the holidays. • 17001 FM 529, Houston • www.gcbreadpudding.com
For the green thumb
For the coffee lover
For the fashionista
SowCUTE The shop sells small plants and cuttings, including monsteras, epipremnums, syngoniums and hoyas. SowCUTE is holding a giveaway through Dec. 23, oering customers a chance to win a variegated philodendron billietiae. • 16718 House & Hahl Road, Ste. J, Cypress • www.instagram.com/sowcute_ Reach Unlimited Gift Shop Reach Unlimited is a nonpro t organization that provides work opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Clients create artisan glass items sold at their gift shop, and plants are for sale in their greenhouse. • 11832 Mueller Cemetery Road, Cypress • www.reachunlimited.org/support/gift-shop
Bad Ass Co ee of Hawaii The shop sells a variety of coee, including the Coconut Rum Signature Blend, Signature Blend Volcanic Roast and Kona French Roast. Gift cards and accessories, such as coee mugs and sweatshirts, are also available. • 12904 Fry Road, Ste. 400, Cypress • www.badasscoffee.com
Jul’s Boutique Jul’s Boutique oers clothes, shoes and accessories in both trendy and timeless styles in-store and online. A Champagne and Crystal Holiday Open House is planned for Dec. 7, where guests will receive a gift with every $75 in-store purchase. • 15210 Spring Cypress Road, Cypress • www.lovejuls.com Retail Therapy Resale Boutique Retail Therapy Resale Boutique provides a unique and aordable selection of women’s apparel sizes XS-4X. The resale shops oer designer clothes, jewelry and shoes online and in-store.
For the unique
Houston Antiques Warehouse Houston Antiques Warehouse oers a variety of antiques, including furniture, home decor, collectibles, clothing and jewelry. • 10854 Jones Road, Houston • 832-758-2943 Traders Village Houston Traders Village is the largest market in the Texas Gulf Coast and oers a variety of items including tires and tools, electronics, comics, cards, crafts, collectibles, silk plants and ¤owers, truck accessories, jewelry, furniture, clothing, and garage sale bargains. • 7979 N. Eldridge Parkway, Houston • www.tradersvillage.com/houston/shopping
• 10782 Grant Road, Houston • www.retailtherapyresale.com
For the sweet tooth
For the crafter
Kilwins Kilwins oers high-quality chocolates and sweet treats for holiday gifting, including gift boxes and tins with caramel corn, brittle and handcrafted chocolates. • 9945 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress • www.kilwins.com This list is not comprehensive.
Tandy Leather Tandy Leather specializes in leather artistry and sells tools, leather and equipment for crafters to customize their own products. In-store classes are also available. • 10947 FM 1960, Ste. 100, Houston • www.tandyleather.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
17
CY FAIR EDITION
HUFFMEISTER 8945 Hwy 6 N (281) 859-5879
BARKER CYPRESS 17996 FM 529 (281) 656-4200
SPRING CYPRESS 22508 Hwy 249 (281) 379-7383
JONES ROAD 17414 NW Fwy (713) 983-8827
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Events
BY JOVANNA AGUILAR & DANICA LLOYD
Cy-Hoops invitational The annual basketball tournament features 24 teams, including 12 Cy-Fair ISD boys varsity teams, to raise funds for student scholarships. The tournament will be held at The Berry Center and Bridgeland, Cypress Woods and Cypress Lakes high schools. Game times and locations are online. • Dec. 7-9, times vary • $10 (tournament pass), $5 (single adult ticket), $3 (single student ticket) • Locations vary • www.berrycenter.net
Worth the Trip: MLK Day Parade in Midtown Houston
parade will feature more than 100 culturally diverse performance groups from across the nation. • Jan. 15, 10 a.m.-noon • Free (admission) • Midtown Houston, San Jacinto Street and Elgin Street • www.mlkgrandeparade.org
The 30th annual MLK Day Parade will be held in Midtown Houston originating on San Jacinto Street and Elgin Street with a “We Still Believe” theme. The
• 12527 Cypress N. Houston Road, Cypress • www.livinglegacycenter.com
• Dec. 15, 8 p.m. • Free (admission)
December
• 14102 Mueschke Road, Cypress • www.mosirishpub.com/cypress
‘Anastasia’ at Playhouse 1960 Playhouse 1960 is presenting “Anastasia,” a musical play based on the 1997 animated lm following a young woman who sets out to discover the mystery of her past. • Dec. 8, 9, 15 and 16, 8 p.m.; Dec. 10 and 17, 3 p.m. • $22 (military, veterans, students, seniors), $25 (general admission) • 6814 Gant Road, Ste. 116, Houston • www.playhouse1960.com ‘Elf the Musical’ Cy-Fair High School is presenting “Elf the Musical,” based on the holiday classic “Elf” about a young orphan who crawled into Santa’s bag of gifts and was
Telemundo Houston Toy Drive Telemundo Houston is hosting a toy drive with games and TV personality Antonio Hernandez, who will be on-site receiving donations of new, unwrapped toys at Traders Village. • Dec. 10, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • 7979 N. Eldridge Parkway, Houston • www.tradersvillage.com Chanukah celebration Chabad Cypress Northwest Houston is holding a celebration and pop-up show with its public menorah lighting and Chanukah event, featuring traditional food and entertainment. • Dec. 10, 5 p.m. • Free (admission) • 14350 Cypress N. Houston Road, Cypress • www.chabadcypress.com Cypress Ridge High School Orchestra winter concert Cypress Ridge High School is presenting its winter orchestra concert in the auditorium. • Dec. 12, 6 p.m. (nonvarsity), 7 p.m. (varsity) • Free (admission) • 7900 N. Eldridge Parkway, Houston • www.cisd.net Naughty or Nice Christmas Party Mo’s Irish Pub in Cypress is celebrating the season with a holiday party with food and drink specials, and a DJ. Attendees are encouraged to dress up.
Movie night at the Civic Center The Jersey Village Civic Center is hosting a free showing of “The Grinch,” about a grumpy Grinch who ruins Christmas for the village of Whoville. • Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m. • Free (admission) • 16327 Lakeview Drive, Jersey Village • www.jerseyvillagetx.com Houston Choral Society performance Foundry Church is hosting a masterful oratorio, a performance that unveils the life of Christ with a blend of choral and orchestral arrangement composed in 1741. The event will start with an audience sing-along. • Dec. 16, 7-8:30 p.m. • $30 (general admission), $25 (seniors; active and retired military), $15 (students over 12 years old) • 8350 Jones Road, Houston • www.houstonchoralsociety.org
transported to the North Pole. • Dec. 7-9, 7 p.m.; Dec. 9, 1 p.m. • $10 (students), $15 (adults) • 22602 Hwy. 290, Cypress • www.cisd.net
‘Holiday Follies’ Stageworks Theatre is presenting entertainment inspired by the late-19th-century Vaudeville and Follies shows to celebrate the holidays. • Dec. 7-9 and 14-16, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 9 and 16, 2 p.m.; Dec. 10 and 17, 3 p.m. • $37-$54
January
Run Houston at Sam Houston Race Park The Sam Houston Race Park is holding a 5K and 10K race. There will also be 1K kids races and virtual races available. Each race time varies and is available online. • Jan. 6, times vary • $24.99-$42.99 • 7575 N. Sam Houston Parkway W., Gate 3, Houston • www.runsignup.com
• 10760 Grant Road, Houston • www.stageworkshouston.org
Storytime with Santa The Living Legacy Center is having story time with Santa. • Dec. 9, 9 a.m.-noon • Free (admission)
21
CYFAIR EDITION
OUR MISSION: To make primary care more caring
We are Village Medical , and we’re changing health care to make it easier for you to get well - and stay well. Pri- mary care as it should be. How we make you primary. We take a “coordinated care” approach to your health. That means you receive the time and attention you need from an entire care team who coordinates with your primary care provider. This way, we can help you with annual check-ups, lab work, illness + injury treatment, even specialist referrals and medication man- agement. And we welcome most insur- ance and Medicare Advantage plans.
To schedule an appointment or learn more VillageMedical.com
Several area locations to serve you:
Village Medical at Copperfield 713-461-2915 15881 FM 529, Ste. A Houston, TX 77095 Mon – Fri: 8am – 5pm
Village Medical at Walgreens 713-461-2915 14317 Cypress Rosehill Rd. Cypress, TX 77429 Mon - Fri: 7am – 7pm Sat & Sun: 9am – 5pm
Village Medical at Walgreens 832-678-8252 12314 Jones Rd. Houston, TX 77070 Mon - Fri: 7am – 7pm Sat & Sun: 9am – 5pm
Village Medical at CyFalls 713-461-2915 9511 Humeister, Ste 100 Houston, TX 77095 Mon – Fri: 8am – 5pm
Village Medical at Riata Ranch 713-461-2915 10720 Barker Cypress Rd. Cypress, TX 77433 Mon – Fri: 8am – 5pm
To schedule an appointment or learn more VillageMedical.com
MEDICARE ACCEPTED AT ALL VILLAGE MEDICAL LOCATIONS
• WALK-INS WELCOME • SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE • VIRTUAL VISITS • EXTENDED HOURS OFFERED AT SOME LOCATIONS
© 2021 Village Medical
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Events
BY JOVANNA AGUILAR
Creekwood Grill 12710 Telge Road, Cypress www.creekwoodgrill.com • Dec. 15: Randy Hulsey and Chris Hughes, 6 p.m.
Live music
The Backyard Grill 9453 Jones Road, Houston www.thebackyardgrill.com
• Dec. 16: Kendale Walker, 6:30 p.m. • Dec. 22: Mark Childres, 6:30 p.m. • Dec. 29: Ava Bryant, 6:30 p.m. • Dec. 30: Brett Axelson, 6:30 p.m. Cypress Trail Hideout 25610 Hempstead Road, Cypress www.cypresstrailhideout.com • Dec. 8: Mr. Wonderful, 7 p.m. • Dec. 9: Bronco Junior, 7 p.m. • Dec. 15: Shotgun Road, 7 p.m. • Dec. 16: John Loring, 7 p.m. • Dec. 22: Jonathan Mitchell, 7 p.m. • Dec. 23: Chris Boise, 7 p.m. • Dec. 29: Josh Brown, 7 p.m. • Dec. 30: Bryan Shayne, 7 p.m. Lambeau’s Sports Bar & Grill 13131 Louetta Road, Cypress www.lambeaus.com • Dec. 12: James Roosa, 6:30 p.m. • Dec. 19: Mark Ward, 6:30 p.m. • Dec. 26: Leo Mendoza, 6:30 p.m.
• Dec. 8: Kendale Walker, 7-9 p.m. • Dec. 15: Drewbadour, 7-9 p.m. • Dec. 22: Matt Sebastian, 7-9 p.m.
Brew: 30 Taphouse 15914 Telge Road, Cypress www.brew30taphouse.com • Dec. 29: Matt Sebastian, 6:30-9 p.m. • Dec. 30: Streeter Brothers Music & Magic, 6:30-9:30 p.m. • Jan. 6: Marcus Breidenthal, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Crafthouse Grill 12910 Malcomson Road, Cypress www.crafthousegrill.com • Dec. 8: Austin Bradshaw, 8 p.m.
Kendale Walker is performing at The Backyard Grill on Dec. 8.
COURTESY KENDALE WALKER
Mac’s Sports Bar & Grill 12650 Telge Road, Cypress www.facebook.com/macs.sportsbar • Dec. 7: Leo Mendoza, 8 p.m. • Dec 14: James Roosa 8 p.m. • Dec 15: The Spicolis, 9 p.m. • Dec 21: Juba Normand, 8 p.m.
• Dec. 9: Mike Casey, 8 p.m. • Dec. 15: Mark Ward, 8 p.m. • Dec. 16: Dirks Michael, 8 p.m. • Dec. 22: Pete Scaidi, 8 p.m. • Dec. 23: JP Lee, 8 p.m. • Dec. 29: Pete Scaidi, 8 p.m.
Our Services • Newborn Care • Well Child Visits • Sports/School Physicals • Same Day Sick & Well Visits • Immunizations • ADD/ADHD Care • Acne • Asthma Management • Obesity Screening • Weight Management • Telemedicine • COVID-19 Testing & Vaccine • FLU Vaccine Now Available!
BIRTH T0 21 YEARS
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
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ALIANA 10321 West Grand Pkwy South Suite 130 Richmond, TX 77407 832-810-9025
ROYAL OAK 11803 Westheimer Rd. Suite 720 Houston, TX 77077 832-810-9012
MORTON RANCH 23021 Morton Ranch Rd. Suite Z Katy, TX 77449 832-810-9017
CYPRESS 17817 FM 529 Suite 109 Houston, TX 77095 832-810-9021
KINGSLAND 23441 Kingsland Blvd. Suite 100 Katy, TX 77494 832-810-9014
23
CYFAIR EDITION
Killian set to lead Cy-Fair ISD From the cover
The overview
Challenges • Teacher and staff retention and support • Implementation of equitable practices • Discipline and social-emotional/behavioral health and safety • Community disagreements about curriculum and pedagogy • Growth of the district “I believe in leading with honesty and integrity, setting high expectations, striving for continual growth and treating all students the same. I look forward to working with the district and community to develop CFISD students into the burgeoning leaders of tomorrow,” Killian said in a statement.
compared to 57.6% in CFISD. As part of the superintendent search process, ocials with Hanover Research surveyed CFISD stakeholders and identied the following strengths and challenges the new superintendent would be facing: Strengths • Diversity and inclusion • Community support and involvement • High-quality academic and enrichment programming • Leadership • Finances, resources and facilities
The selection of this lone nalist was unanimously supported by the board, including its three newly elected members, who were allowed to interview Killian and his wife the day after the Nov. 7 election, ocials said. Trustees each made statements of approval during the Nov. 13 meeting announcing his selection. Killian is moving from a district of about 25,000 students to one with an enrollment of 118,000. PfISD received a “B” rating in the Texas Education Agency’s accountability rating system in 2021-22. The district’s racial demographics are similar to CFISD’s, with nearly 50% of the student population being Hispanic, but a smaller percentage of its enrollment is classied as economically disadvantaged—45.7% in PfISD
Notable achievements
Killian’s superintendent roles
Poteet ISD : 2004-06 2022-23 enrollment: 1,837 Human ISD : 2006-10 2022-23 enrollment: 3,717 Hutto ISD : 2010-17 2022-23 enrollment: 9,620 Pugerville ISD : 2017-23 2022-23 enrollment: 25,445 Cy-Fair ISD : Eective 2024 2022-23 enrollment: 118,010
Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Superintendent of the Year
35
1
183
45
3
2
Region 13’s Superintendent of the Year in 2015
4
Austin
2
290
5
3
Texas Superintendent of the Year nalist in 2022
35
10
Houston
10
4
Helped PfISD pass $367M bond package, voter-approved tax rate election and attendance credit election in 2022
San Antonio
77
5
1
Following a tax rate election, presented a balanced budget with sta raises while lowering PfISD’s tax rate in 2023
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SOURCES: CYFAIR ISD, PFLUGERVILLE ISD, TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCYCOMMUNITY IMPACT
GULF OF MEXICO
N
Education background
Bachelor’s degree in political science from Southwest Texas State University
Master’s degree in educational administration from Texas A&M International University
Doctorate of philosophy in educational administration from Texas A&M University
How we got here
Employee opinions
vacancies statewide. The rm collected stakeholder input to narrow the eld of candidates for trustees to interview. The board considered more than 4,000 distinct survey responses. Independent from the ocial search process, the Cy-Fair chapter of the American Federation of Teachers surveyed 865 CFISD employees and found most wanted a hands-on, relationship- building superintendent who has classroom experience. Based on board input Nov. 13, Killian ts the bill.
Following 12 years in the district, Henry announced his plans to retire at the end of 2023. “This is the hardest decision I have ever had to make. ... The friends I’ve made, being involved in the community and seeing so many dedicated educators guide our students to reach their goals has been a blessing,” Henry said in a May 8 statement. The CFISD board hired a consulting rm, Thompson & Horton, the following month to nd his replacement. At the time, ocials with the rm said there were about 70 superintendent
Cy-Fair AFT President Nikki Cowart summarized the responses in an Oct. 5 letter to the board: 85% did not want to see “signicant change in philosophy” from a new superintendent. 84% said the new superintendent should have worked in Texas public schools. 80% said the superintendent should engage with employees to understand their experiences. 80% said employee retention and salaries need to be addressed.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY DAVE MANNING CONTRIBUTIONS BY DANICA LLOYD
Next steps
In their own words
The outgoing board chose Killian as the lone nalist, and the newly constituted board will nalize his contract in December. In a letter to PfISD sta following the Nov. 13 announcement, Killian said their board would likely appoint an interim leader while they initiate the search for PfISD’s next superintendent. Killian will begin his role as CFISD superintendent Jan. 1 as Henry begins his retirement, according to CFISD. “We have a nalist that was described as condent, knowledgeable and a communicative servant leader—someone who doesn’t shy away from challenges but rather is a visible, boots-on-the- ground leader,” said Justin Ray, one of the newest CFISD trustees.
“The next superintendent will lead ... 14,000 employees, and the success of our schools depends on a relationship
“[Killian has] an amazingly rich and varied background that will
form the foundation as [he leads] us into the future to combat all of the unknowns that will arise.” TOM JACKSON, OUTGOING CFISD BOARD PRESIDENT
... that is productive and collaborative.” NIKKI COWART, CYFAIR AFT PRESIDENT
“As I evaluated all the applications, the one thing that had to be rst and foremost was someone’s
“While following in the footsteps of a much beloved and longtime
superintendent may be daunting, I believe that ... Dr. Killian is well qualied, experienced and has the skills needed to lead a district like ours.”
focus on teaching and learning and making sure our students will reach strong outcomes.” NATALIE BLASINGAME, CFISD TRUSTEE
JULIE HINAMAN, CFISD TRUSTEE
Whatever happens in our community, we’re here, ready to serve. Providing Level I trauma care at Ben Taub Hospital for people experiencing the worst day of their lives. Reaching out to families struggling to find or afford healthy food. Offering the gold standard in nursing at our Magnet®-recognized Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital. Treating everyone with respect, compassion and gratitude for giving us the opportunity to care for them, work with them, know them. You may not know our name. And that’s okay.
YOU’LL KNOW US BY THE WORK WE DO.
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CYFAIR EDITION
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