3 February | March 2017
PinPointe Magazine
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Contents ON THE COVER: Chief Amy Ramon Cy-Fair Fire Dept. Photo Credit: Capt. Daniel Arizpe, PIO/Cy-Fair Fire Department
Serving the Community of Coles Crossing
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12 6 Cy-Fair Fire Chief Brings Years of Experience and Team Approach to the Department 8 Best of Cy-Fair: Places to Eat Plum Coffee / Cake Fine Pastry
10 Let’s Get Dressed 12 Houston Humane Society Joins Forces with HOT Team to Vet Homeless Companion Dogs 14 Holiday Memories of Music
PinPointe Magazine
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Cy-Fair Fire Chief
PINPOINTE RESIDENT PROFILE
Amy Ramon
Bringing Years of Experience and Team Approach to the Department Story by Patricia Hudson Photo Credit: Capt. Daniel Arizpe, PIO/ Cy-Fair Fire Department
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ince joining the Cy-Fair Fire Department 31 years ago, Amy Ramon has advanced through the ranks as a firefighter, dispatcher, paramedic, and Assistant Chief of EMS. In July 2014, Ramon was selected to lead the 543 men and women that comprise the Cy-Fair Fire Department.
“Fire Chief Amy Ramon brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience to her role as Fire Chief for the Cy-Fair community,” says Captain Daniel Arizpe, Public Information Officer. “Her tenure with our department and the multiple roles in which she has served have given her a unique perspective and understanding that help her in her role today.” An introduction at a community event held at the Cy-Fair Fire Department Administration Building, led to this interview with Chief Ramon. Where did you receive your education? Degree(s) received? I am a proud CFISD graduate of Jersey Village High School. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from LeTourneau University. Later, I returned to school to earn a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree at South Texas College of Law. What career paths have you followed prior to becoming a firefighter? Prior to joining the Cy-Fair Fire
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Department, I worked in the private sector, focusing on Financial and Administrative Operations. What led you to pursue a career in public service, and specifically, as a firefighter? Daniel Arizpe, Captain of the Public Relations Division, and Fire Chief Amy Ramon at the department’s pinning ceremony May 1, 2021.
The pursuit to become a firefighter led me to public service. In the beginning, it was all about the adrenaline rush. After joining the Cy-Fair Fire Department, I became energized by the larger mission of ensuring all Cy-Fair residents, families, businesses, and visitors receive exceptional fire and emergency medical services. My background in finance, law, emergency medicine, and as a firefighter came together and now, I am honored to lead this growing public agency.
Speaking to the newest group of volunteer firefighters to join the department at a graduation ceremony on September 9, 2021.
Showing support for the department's EMS crews during National EMS Week.
How many years have you been associated with the fire department? In what roles have you served?
What are the greatest challenges and rewards as Fire Chief of the Cy-Fair Fire Department?
Over the past 31 years, I have filled many roles including Firefighter, Paramedic, Dispatcher, Lieutenant, Board Treasurer, Assistant Chief-EMS, and Fire Chief.
The greatest challenge has been the unprecedented number of emergency disaster declarations over the last 7 years and the ongoing pandemic. The greatest rewards have been seeing the Department grow and thrive in our community. I am also so proud of our personnel stepping up with determination and resilience to the adversities we face every day.
How many employees serve under you? How many fire stations?
Cy-Fair Fire Department command staff and commissioners break ground on the new Cy-Fair FD Station 5.
The Cy-Fair Fire Department includes over 500 full-time and part-time employees and volunteers. We are a team of 131 EMS, 162 full-time/part-time firefighters, 163 volunteer firefighters, 26 dispatchers, and 61 administrative and support personnel.
What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment as Fire Chief? When the Cy-Fair Fire Department and HCESD 9 organizations transitioned from two separate entities to one beginning in 2019, my focus was on ensuring the transition was smooth, transparent, and without disruption in service to the community or loss of personnel. What advice would you give to anyone interested in a career in public service?
There are so many opportunities to serve your community through public service. Even within the Cy-Fair Fire Department, we have members who specialize in IT, human resources, accounting, vehicle maintenance, and communications. Strive to build your knowledge and experiences, pursue your passion, and seek to use your Fire Chief Amy Ramon speaks to department abilities and skills to help others.
The Cy-Fair Fire Department currently has 13 Fire/EMS stations strategically located throughout the 164 square mile area governed by Harris Country Emergency Services District No. 9 (HCESD9). Other facilities include our 911 Dispatch Center, administration office and training facilities. What are some of the activities/programs in which you have been instrumental in implementing? During my tenure as Fire Chief, we have moved to utilizing more of a team approach. I have also worked to improve the working conditions and health of our members. One priority has been general health and cancer awareness including the implementation of annual health physicals, early detection ultrasound screening and fitness exams. We are continually adding new fitness equipment to fire stations for our personnel. We have invested in particulate masks and bunker gear for advanced protection. Updated procedures for mandatory gear washing and inspections also help to reduce exposure to carcinogens.
personnel at the groundbreaking for Cy-Fair Station 1.
How do you spend your leisure time, if there is such a thing? I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Reading books helps me to relax and I play soccer on two women’s teams for fun. If you know of an exceptional Greater Fairfield, Towne Lake, Bridgeland/Blackhorse Ranch, Coles Crossing, or Cypress Creek Lakes individual or family that needs to be featured in an upcoming issue of PinPointe Magazine, please contact me: texasteacher024@outlook.com. PinPointe Magazine
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Plum Coffee/ Cake Fine Pastry
The Best of Cy-Fair P L AC E S TO E AT By Patricia Hudson
Community Business Owners Provide Real World Training for Students with Disabilities
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lizabeth Hale and her husband Jerry are owner/operators of Plum Coffee Shop and Cake Fine Pastry, two favorite “go to” places in Cypress. “We took over Plum because we didn’t want another Cypress independent coffee shop to die and be replaced with a franchise; it is hard balancing the two businesses, especially since my kids are no longer working at both places,” admits Elizabeth, a talented, hard-working baker and cake decorator. Grateful for the support of the Cy-Fair community, the couple is eager to “give back.” One of the ways they have been able to achieve this is through a training program partnership for Cy-Fair ISD special needs students. “We have collaborated with the Career and Technical Education for Students with Disabilities, (CTED), in CFISD for three years,” explains Elizabeth. “Working with the transition to employment students is a great
way to give back to our community, while giving students the opportunity to get real world job training. I work directly with them at Plum Coffee. I know that when they work at my coffee shop, they leave with an understanding of workplace and kitchen safety, and have completed the food handler’s certification which enables them to become employed at any restaurant.” Let’s Talk Business
Plum Coffee is an intimate café, where one can enjoy specialty coffees and teas, breakfast sandwiches, savory panini sandwiches made to order, delicious cupcake mason jars, cookies and scones, shakes and smoothies. Need to catch up on your emails? (I promise, they won’t run you off!)
Jamal Sudduth Jason Raskin
8 November | December 2021
The Cake Fine Pastry motto is “We create cakes that create memories.” Ingredients for their baked creations are “locally sourced and imported from Europe.” Cake is well known for
its Triple Chocolate Brownies, Sugar Cookies, Push Pop Cupcakes, among other sweet offerings. Special occasion custom made cakes are Elizabeth’s specialty. (My mouth waters with the prospect of sampling a morsel of Salted Caramel, French vanilla cake infused with caramel and toffee bits, or maybe just one little sliver of Italian Cream, vanilla cake infused with shaved coconut and walnuts with her signature vanilla buttercream icing!)
Plum Coffee
11688 Barker Cypress Rd Cypress, TX 77433 Monday - Friday: 6AM–7PM Saturday: 7AM–7PM Sunday: 7AM–5PM Menu: plumcoffeeshop.com Phone: (281) 256-9400
Halen Akins
Cake Fine Pastry
11688 Barker Cypress Rd. #A2 Cypress, TX 77433 Monday: 8AM–3PM Tuesday - Friday: 8AM–6PM Saturday: 8AM–3PM Website: cakefinepastry.com Phone: (713) 518-4868
For more restaurant reviews visit: www.bestofcyfair.com.
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BY ALLISON OKUNEYE
t is almost Holiday Party Season and I don't know about you guys, but I am ready to get dressed up for EVERYTHING! If we have learned anything over the last two years, it is that life is short and precious and life is worth celebrating! So this means the level of energy and excitement I am bringing to every outfit will be amped up! I know I am not the only one who lives laughs and LOVES some athleisure. But let's try to find ways to step up our fashion game this season. Don't pass over that sequins top. It is official... we are incorporating sequins into our everyday lives. Because sometimes a little extra sparkle is just what we need. Here are a few more ways to dress up your life this season! 10 November | December 2021
STATEMENT EARRINGS Try to find a way to add funky colorful earrings into your day to day wear, but also feel free to amp it ALL the way up for celebrations! If you have sensitive ears look for a lighter pom option or a polymer clay style that will give you that pop of color and light feel! Don't save them for occasions, a bold earring can brighten up any day of the week!
PRINTED BAGS & FUNKY HEELS Go for bold with shoes, bags or BOTH! Nothing subtle this season. Make that statement and step out of your comfort zone!
HEADWEAR OF ANY KIND! Whether you add a hat, turban, beret, or vintage cap it doesn't matter! Headwear is an easy way to elevate ANY outfit! Think of headwear as a fashion statement, there are so many alternatives to a baseball cap!
Whatever you plan to wear, don't forget to go BOLD this season!
Style Questions for next issue? Email highheelsnmohawks@gmail.com
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Houston Humane Society Joins Forces with HOT Team to Vet Homeless Companion Dogs
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Story& Photos by Patricia Hudson
he Houston Humane Society and the Harris County Sheriff's Office Homeless Outreach Team, (HOT), deputies collaborated recently to provide veterinarian services to the canine companions of the homeless in Cy-Fair. Merry Thomas, Cy-Fair Helping Hands’ Homeless Outreach Specialist, transported dogs and their owners to Cy-Fair Helping Hands, a ministry that serves the homeless in Cy-Fair. Deputy Timothy Craze coordinated the event. “Many of our homeless clients have pets who serve as their companions and often as their only family,” says CFHH Founder, and Director of Homeless Initiatives, Jean Dreyer. “Establishing a relationship with the Humane Society for veterinary care is such a blessing!” “Our mission is to ensure all pets in the community are happy and healthy, including pets of the homeless. There are many benefits to having a pet as a companion. Pets reduce stress, lower blood pressure and provide unconditional love and companionship. We are happy to help the pets that wouldn't normally get medical care and their owners who normally do not get much attention in our community,” comments Gary Poon, Executive Director, Houston Humane Society. Thomas, who was once homeless, recalls, “My dog spent every minute of the day with me! She ran, jumped and played in the tall pasture grasses from 290 at Fairbanks to West Little York. She swam in the creeks and bayous of Cypress. She guarded me at night so that I could rest without fear. She loved every minute of her ‘homeless’ life. When a homeless person has a pet, they have accountability; they have a reason to get up every morning. These dogs are happy to be with their owners. They are their constant companions. When you lose everything, as long as you have the love of a good dog, you know you’re going to be okay.” Concerned for the health and safety of the homeless dogs on her weekly route, Merry reaches into her own pocket. “Merry regularly pays for vaccinations, flea medication, heartworm prevention, and other types of care,” comments Dreyer. While her personal finances are tight, Merry is adamant that these dogs need help. “I just want the dogs to be okay. There’s danger out there; Parvo is prevalent in camps on 290, so it’s essential that the dogs receive their vaccine. It is also important that they get heartworm preventative because they are often around stagnant water and mosquitoes,” explains Thomas earnestly. A total of eight dogs were examined by the Houston Humane Society veterinarian on this day. Of greatest concern was Turbo, a sweet pup that was thought to have been hit by a car. After his exam, Turbo’s leg was bandaged, and plans were made for Merry to take him to the Houston Humane Society office for further care. The homeless clients left with new collars, leashes, and bags of dog food, courtesy of the Humane Society. In case of an emergency such as a hospital stay or rehab program, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office HOT Team has made provisions for the homeless canine companions to be temporarily kenneled at the Humane Society. The homeless are transported to the location by the HOT team, to be reassured that their furry family members are receiving proper care. “Our homeless clients are so grateful for this team for providing care for their companions,” comments Dreyer. Anyone wishing to make a contribution for shots, flea medication, heartworm preventative or any other form of care for the homeless dogs, please go to: www.cyfairhelpinghands.org.
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Holiday Memories of Music by Liz Arrington
t’s that time of year again! All the spookiness and fun of Halloween has passed, and we are settling into the final months of the year. It’s that time of year when we are inclined to reflect on meaningful connections and relationships with our loved ones and our community. Nostalgia for days gone by, measured by a hopefulness for better days ahead. This especially rings true right now, with so many of us still reeling from the chaos and confusion of the past few years. So many of us have experienced indescribable loss and disenchantment, unexpected joys and major obstacles. Some have overcome, some are still lingering in the darkness, and most of us are experiencing a combination of both.
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During periods such as this, it seems appropriate to fall back into the comfort and familiarity of the simple joys of the season. For my family and I- that includes a lot of time cuddled up on the couch together, mugs full of hot chocolate and giant bowls of popcorn. Watching our favorite holiday movies and soaking in familiar sounds of the season. 14 November | December 2021
Timeless holiday movies are an integral part of how we celebrate and observe the holiday season. Conflict and drama surrounds familiar characters as they navigate ghosts of past, present and future, or try to “save” Christmas in some way. All the while learning important lessons about community and family, peace and love. Whether the story takes place in the past or modern times, common themes unfold to leave our protagonists brimming with the true spirit of Christmas by the end of the movie, surrounded by loved ones. And, more often than not, they are all SINGING! This is the part of the movies that I have always loved the most. Bonus points if this final song involves our characters gathered around a piano singing together in harmony. There is just something so powerful and connecting about a group of people singing together, something that brings us all together across time and space. I am so thrilled to be returning to a world where music can be experienced together again. A parenting rite of passage includes squeezing into
folding chairs in a school cafeteria to watch our little ones belt out songs about Rudolf and Frosty. We are able to enjoy musical performances in our community; at churches, universities, and community centers. Many are fortunate enough to go see professionals perform timeless classics such as the Nutcracker or Handel's Messiah. The music of Christmas, more than any other season or holiday, creates such a strong sense of nostalgia. Bringing forth memories of Christmases of our childhood, various different seasons throughout our lives, reminding us of our loved ones, and allowing us to pass along this experience to new generations. Sharing music with our children provides them with the foundation for their own Christmas memories and traditions. Music heals us, reconnects us, and allows us to express thoughts and feelings where words can fail. My call to you this holiday season is to seek meaningful ways to include music in your holidays.
Go beyond listening to music, or watching other people perform music for you. Create your own family musical moments by singing together at home or in the car. Explore music from your own family history or heritage. Gather your kids or grandkids for caroling with family and friends. Host a sing-a-long movie night featuring your favorite Christmas movie musical. Share the joy of Christmas with others through the gift of music and carry on the long tradition of connecting with the spirit of the season through song. Liz Arrington combines her background as a professional children’s therapist with her love of music to provide early childhood music and movement classes to families of Cypress. Outdoor, Weekday, and Saturday classes available. See more at www.songfulbeginnings.com
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16 November | December 2021
