3 February | March 2017
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Contents ON THE COVER: Karl & Louise Rugaard Enchanted Valley, Peru 2020
Serving the Community of Cypress Creek Lakes
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6
22
6 Retirement Brings Time for Travel, Grands and Friends
14 Best of Cy-Fair: Creekwood Grill
10 Nothing Bundt Cakes Opens in Cypress
18 Rotary Club of Cy-Fair Celebrates 50 Years
11 Metta's Local Eats Dine Out for Charity
19 Cypress School News
12 Cypress Happenings
20 Cypress Area Seniors Share Their Plans
13 Cy-Fair Helping Hands Scholarship Awards
22 Living Life Through the Lens of a Camera
16 Ignore the Tags
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PINPOINTE RESIDENT PROFILE
“Our lives since retiring have been filled with lots of travel, time with our grandkids and friends. Everyday can tend to be Saturday.” -Louise Rugaard Machu Picchu, Peru - 2020
By Patricia Hudson
K
arl and Louise Rugaard spent their early years in “various parts of Texas.” They finally landed in Harris County in 1986. “We raised our children in Hearthstone. Our Cypress Creek Lakes home was purchased in 2014 and we love it here,” shares Louise. Louise, a Grad school student, and Karl, a law student, met at Texas Tech University. “We married on graduation day, 42 years ago,” she recalls. “It seemed like a great idea because our family would be traveling there for the graduation.” Prior to retiring, Karl worked for several oil companies. Following 9/11, Louise spent eight years teaching biology at Cy-Falls High School. “Before becoming a teacher, I was involved in all kinds of Scouting: Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and I led a troop for 13 years. I also volunteered with our church, various schools, Harris County Master Gardeners, and other non-profits,” explains Louise. 6 June | July 2021
The Cypress Creek Lakes community became home for the couple when they no longer needed their previously owned two-story house. “We found our dream home here. A prior visit to St. Petersburg, Russia, added to our love of the place, with the fountains and lakes,” comments Louise. “We could continue to be near friends and familiar haunts.” The Rugaards have three adult children. Karen Rugaard Ward, her husband, James, and her two children live in Spring Branch. Chris, his wife, Jodi, and their child make their home in Needville, and Matt, his wife, Stefanie, and their three children reside close by, in Stonegate. It is interesting to learn that Matt met his wife through his brother’s wedding. “Matt was Best Man and his future wife, Stefanie, was Maid of Honor to Chris’ bride. All four of them had been swimmers, so they had lots in common. That was 13 years ago. As it was, Chris met his future wife at a District swim meet; it was love at
first sight,” explains their mother.
Oahu, Hawaii - 2012
Karl and Louise have the distinction of being world travelers. “We have visited all of the continents, but Asia, although we have visited Israel. Before going abroad, we took a pop-up trailer from Houston to Alberta, Canada and back, stopping at the national parks along the way. We were gone for a month and only stayed in a hotel five nights. Our adult children still reminisce about changing flats on the trailer, and Canada Day pancake breakfast in a park in Canmore. Trips abroad have included Canada, Mexico, South America and Antarctica by cruise ship, Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Greenland, Iceland, Western Europe, Israel, United Kingdom, Egypt, Australia/ New Zealand, Greece and more. Our top four trips are Iceland, South America/Antarctica (2020), Australia/New Zealand, and Egypt.”
complications, Louise recalls. “The best laid travel plans went awry when while on our 44-day cruise to South America and Antarctica, we kept hearing about the novel Coronavirus that was infecting hundreds in China. As the cruise progressed, we became nervous that we might not be allowed to go home. We landed in
Houston February 16, 2020, and came close to kissing the ground. The virus never got onto the ship. COVID-19 has changed our outlook on international travel.” While many of their adventures take them far from home, their grandkids make coming home so much sweeter. “Because we live close to them, we get to see them often and cherish our time. They range in age from 3 to 10.” Karl enjoys playing online games and reading. Louise is active in a book group, Zoom bingo, CCL bunco, Academy of Lifelong Learning at Lone Star Cy-Fair as a speaker, student and member of the bus committee. Louise is a lifetime Girl Scout and has served on The Emerald Circle Gold
Not all of their globetrotting adventures have gone without Paris, France - 2016
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Disney World - 2021
Award Scholarship Committee. Both Karl and Louise enjoy gardening at their home in CCL. Louise is also a member of the CCL Garden Club and is a retired Harris County Master Gardener. The couple attends Good Shepherd UMC at Fairfield.
The one thing that most people don’t know about Karl is that he earned Eagle rank in high school (as did both of their sons, and their daughter earned her Gold Award). Karl is a former Cubmaster, and later, Scoutmaster to Sam Houston Area Council BSA Troop 202. Louise earned what she calls “a double whammy,” a BS in Horticulture and MS in Crop Science. She became a teacher following the tragedy of 9/11 because she was too old to join the military. Louise sums up their fondness for their lives in CyFair. ”We loved our 26+ years in Hearthstone, and
Frederiksted, St. Croix, USVI - 2018
live close enough to keep up with old friends. CCL is truly our forever home and we have been delighted to meet and get to know of our many friends here. One of the things we love most is the diversity in ages and ethnicities.” Editor’s Note: It’s always an adventure when seeking out individuals and families for PinPointe Magazine features. This edition’s family feature was suggested by Uyen Karie Ngo, whose own family was featured in the April-May 2019 Cypress Creek Lakes edition. Uyen immediately suggested her friend, Louise, and husband, Karl. Ngo Family
8 June | July 2021
If you know of an exceptional Cypress Creek Lakes, Greater Fairfield, Towne Lake, Coles Crossing, or Bridgeland/Blackhorse Ranch individual or family that should be featured in an upcoming issue of PinPointe Magazine, please contact me: texasteacher024@outlook.com.
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Nothing Bundt Cakes Opens in Cypress
AROUND
Cy-Fair
By Patricia Hudson Much to the delight of Cypress residents, Nothing Bundt Cakes Cypress held its Grand Opening on Wednesday, April 21, 2021. Leslie Martone, President of the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce, welcomed guests that gathered to celebrate the day’s festivities with a Ribbon Cutting and free Confetti Bundtlets. “I’ve had my eye on Cypress for some time, and am so excited that we were able to open a new Nothing Bundt Cakes bakery in this community,” shares Bindya Patel, owner franchisee. The Grand Opening event featured a Cy-Fair Helping Hands Benefit Day, with 20% of the day’s proceeds donated to the non-profit organization.
Leslie Martone and Bindya Patel
Nothing Bundt Cakes offers Bundt Cakes in ten delicious flavors, four different sizes and a selection of handmade decorations for any occasion. Nothing Bundt Cakes 9822 Fry Rd. • Suite 170 • Cypress, TX 77433 (281) 671-0775 houston-cypress@nothingbundtcakes.com Delivery Offered HOURS OF OPERATION Mon-Sat: 9:00am - 7:00pm Sun: Closed
10 June | July 2021
(left to right) Kevin Polivka, Leslie Martone, Bindya Patel, Patricia Hudson. Mitch Medigovich
Metta’s Local Eats Dine Out for Charity
By Patricia Hudson
Partners with Local Eateries to Fight Hunger and Homelessness
O
n April 1, 2021, Metta ArchillaIshida, Founder and Admin. of Metta’s Local Eats, kicked off the second quarter of Metta’s Local Eats Dine Out for Charity, benefitting Cy-Fair Helping Hands. In the second quarter of the program, more than 40 food and beverage businesses are actively participating, many for the second time. “Through food and fellowship, we generated more than $27,000 for CFHH in the last quarter of 2020. We invite you to visit all of these local Cypress and surrounding restaurants, now through June 30th, and join the fight against hunger and homelessness,” encourages Metta.
Participating Restaurants and Artisans
2 Guys 1 Pit BBQ Airi Ramen - Cypress Alchemy Bake Lab Amar Indian Cuisine Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen - Towne Lake Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen - Vintage Andy's Kitchen – Cypress Angel’s Churros N Chocolate Backyard Grill Bao Bros Brew30 Taphouse Burger RANCH Cake Fine Pastry Captain Brad’s Coastal Kitchen Creekwood Grill Cupcake Cowgirls d’Vine Wine Bar and Bistro Flour Petal Bakery Floyd’s Cajun Seafood - Cypress Gooey’s Ice Cream Sandwiches
Hanan’s Café Hidden Cellar Wine Bar Just Love Coffee Café Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee and Bakery Little Kitchen HTX Jersey Village Mandi Cocina Mexicana Martha’s Mexican Restaurant Old 300 Ranch - Sausage Cypress Trail Hideout Home of Pappa Charlies Plum Coffee Shop Rita’s Cantina Mexican Kitchen Sizzle and Brew Sleek Creperie & Café Spice Hippies Suzybeez Bakery Tacoland Mex Mex Tacos The Shack Burger Resort The Union Kitchen - KATY The Union Kitchen - Boardwalk Towne Lake Titos Cantina Wicked Boxer Brewery Yokohamaya Japanese Restaurant
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Cypress
HAPPENINGS
For more upcoming Cy-Fair events, visit: www.bestofcyfair.com
CFISD Summer Camps Available Visitwww.cfisd.net/en/parents-students/community-programs/ summer-camps for more information.
Bridgeland Sports Camps bridgeland.cfisd.net/en/parents-students/athletics/summer-camps
Cypress Ranch Summer Sports Camps cyranch.cfisd.net/en/parents-students/athletics/athletic-staff
Metta's Local Eats Dine Out for Charity Benefiting Cy-Fair Helping Hands
Houston's First Baptist Church GoHouston Sports Camp
Through June 30, 2021 Food, Fellowship, and Funds! www.facebook.com/MLEDineOutForCharity/
July 12-15, 2021 • 6-8pm FREE houstonsfirst.org/cypress/event/go-houston-sports-camp-2021
Fairfield Women's Club The 4th (on the 3rd) @ Fairfield
Houston First Baptist Church Vacation Bible School
Saturday,July 3, 2021 Parade starts at Ault Elementary • 9am (line-up at 8:30 to join in) 4th (on the 3rd) • Keith Elementary • 10am-1pm fairfieldwomensclub.org
11011 Mason Rd. • Cypress, TX 77433 • June 28 - July 1 houstonsfirst.org/cypress/event/cypress-vbs-2021/
S AV E T H E D AT E Saturday, August 21, 2021 • 6-10pm We hope to collect donations such as pre-made themed baskets, gift cards, merchandise, trips, sports memorabilia, and services, generously donated by businesses and individuals such as you. We will also accept monetary donations, as well. Please visit our website www.cyfairhelpinghands.org and click on the Stetsons and Stilettos Gala Donate tab. The event proceeds will help us to purchase a much-needed larger facility.
12 June | July 2021
The Foundry Church Vacation Bible School 10203 Fry Rd. • Cypress, TX 77433 • June 21-25 foundrychurch.org/events/fry-road-vbs/ 8350 Jones Rd. • Houston, TX 77065 • June 14-18 foundrychurch.org/events/jones-road-vbs/
Christ the Redeemer Vacation Bible School 101507 Huffmeister Road • Houston, TX 77065 • July 12-16 ctrcc.com/vbs
St. John Lutheran Church Vacation Bible School 15235 Spring Cypress Rd. • Cypress, TX 77429 • June 14-18 vbspro.events/p/events/6c385f
Cy-Fair Helping Hands Honors CFISD Grads, Awards Vocational Scholarships
Left to right: Celeste Galicia, Saransh Kumar, Stephanie Santibanos, Aliyah Hopkins
By Suzanne Vo Gilman
Cy-Fair Helping Hands awarded $10,000 in vocational scholarships to four deserving CFISD graduates: Stephanie Santibanos, (phlebotomy), Celeste Galicia, (cosmetology), Saransh Kumar (auto technician), and Aliyah Hopkins, (cosmetology). In its third year, the goal of the Cy-Fair Helping Hands Vocational Scholarship program is to assist students in acquiring the work skills needed to complete a certification and enter the workforce quickly. A festive brunch celebration was held at The Back Yard Grill in honor of the scholarship recipients. Dr. Linda Macias, CFISD Chief Academic Officer and Associate Superintendent, together with CFISD counselors, staff, and family members were in attendance to congratulate the honorees. Special guest, Jamie Scott, the first CFHH Scholarship recipient to have reached her goal, encouraged the scholarship recipients to “never give up on their dreams.” Jamie recently completed her vocational training and works for Right At Home as a Certified Nurse Assistant.
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CREEKWOOD GRILL
The Best of Cy-Fair P L AC E S TO E AT
An Interview with Brian Sandel
Story by Patricia Hudson
"I love Creekwood Grill. Relaxed atmosphere, good prices and great food. Onion rings, shrimp/fish tacos and roasted corn are all items I will highly recommend.” -Linda Lanier.
C
reekwood Grill, located in Cypress at 12710 Telge Road, is a popular site for gatherings of family and friends. What began its life as a grocery in the 1940’s, was probably best known in the 1980’s as P.O.’s. In August 2018, Brian Sandel and Mark McShaffry became partners of Creekwood Grill. I interviewed Brian to learn more about this favorite Cypress restaurant.
Brian, your partnership with Mark McShaffry at Creekwood Grill is coming up on three years in August. How did this come about?
Mark and I met when I was a Managing Partner for Raising Cane's. We met in 2012, maybe 2013, at a Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the old Northwest Forest Conference Center, directly across the street from Creekwood, (irony!) His general manager and I ran into each other a lot at various school and marketing functions; we got to know each other through doing business in the Cypress area in the same industry. The way he built his business at The Backyard Grill is strikingly similar to the way I went about building a brandnew concept to Cypress, Raising Cane's, so we ended up running into each other a lot. What do you see as the reason Creekwood is so popular with the folks in Cypress?
I think it's just basic business. We have a great location, away from the freeways and crazy traffic areas. We have a good menu that's easy to understand and we use high quality ingredients; we followed what our customers were telling us that they wanted us to be. We're a fun, laid back, easy to hang out at with friends kind of place, with a killer burger and great beer. Oh, yeah, the BEER! We have 40 rotating taps of great beer with a style and choice for anyone. We work hard to be a place where people can come learn about new beers Pulled Pork Sandwich
Photo by Patricia Hudson
without feeling like the beer snobs are everywhere. We're constantly looking for great, mostly local craft beers for everyone to try. There is so much amazing beer that is brewed right here in the Houston / Gulf Coast area, and we try to showcase as much of that as we can. In a nutshell, good food, good beer, good music in a comfortable environment. More than a year into the pandemic, has business finally turned the corner?
Absolutely! We are so blessed to have the support of the community and it seems like some of the folks that were waiting for things to become safer to return to normal are coming back to restaurants. I've heard many times over the past few weeks that "This is the first time we've eaten in a restaurant in a year." Known as a music venue, entertainment plays an important role at Creekwood Grill. The stage in our building has seen a lot of talent over the years. When we started, we just asked a few friends to come set up a guitar and a stool and sing a few songs. As word got around, we had more and more artists approach us to play. Now we have a group of probably a dozen or so artists that play on a rotational basis.
What are the improvements/accomplishments of which you are most proud at CG? What improvements are still in the works?
14 June | July 2021
We are happy with the way we've taken a location that has been a go-to for multiple generations of Cypress families and just continued to evolve it to fit what the community seems
to be telling us they want right now. We want to keep moving forward, but still maintain the soul of P.O.'s and Cypress Saloon for generations to come. Many of the things you see today are ideas that came about during the pandemic, and from us trying to adapt to the ever-changing conditions Texas BBQ Chicken over the past year. The massive outdoor dining area was developed so that folks could have a place to dine where they felt comfortable based on what the authorities were saying at the time, and as the situation evolved, we found that people still like to eat and drink in the sunshine, so it stayed. Several of our menu items were developed as family meals to do whatever we could to keep business coming in through the shutdowns, and ended up being so popular they made the menu. So, I suppose the thing I'm most proud of is the fact that we were able to survive a global pandemic 18 months into opening a restaurant by constantly adapting and re-inventing ourselves. I'm also super proud to be able to continue to host Cypress Chapel every Sunday morning. Pastor Stephen DeMik has been a great partner with us from day one and the contributions the church has made to our facility and to our local neighborhood are invaluable.
Our next project is getting the former P.O.'s building back into use. We've remodeled it, and we've had several ideas over time, but I believe we have finally settled on the direction we want to take it. It's still early in the process, so I don't want to give too much away, but we are excited about the direction we're headed, and that we may finally be using the entire building and property soon! What is your "Go to" meal at Creekwood Grill?
My personal go-to? Either the wings with either the dry rub bbq or the Honey Garlic sauce. We smoke the wings for an hour and a half before we flash fry them and I love that subtle smokiness. I'll grab a Wheelhouse Burger if I'm super hungry. What's next for Brian Sandel?
Who knows? Truth be told, I'd have never seen this coming, so as soon as God tells me what's next for me, you'll be the first to know! Creekwood Grill 12710 Telge Rd. • Cypress, TX 77429 (281) 746-635 • www.CreekwoodGrill.com eat@creekwoodgrill.com HOURS Monday: Closed Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 11 am to 9 pm Friday & Saturday: 11 am to 10 pm
For more restaurant reviews visit: www.bestofcyfair.com.
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IGNORE THE TAGS. Do n ’ t l e t n u m b e r s r u i n yo u r h a p p i n e ss. BY ALLISON OKUNEYE
Full transparency disclaimer. I have not worked out in 2 years. In those two years, I have gained at LEAST 30 unwanted but definitely hard-earned pounds. Do I regret the Oreos for breakfast? Possibly.
Did I fall into an unhealthy “eating my feelings” routine, CLEARLY. All of that changed 2 weeks ago when I finally joined a gym and have been working out 4 days a week. All week I kept hyping myself up saying, way to go self! You are here, you showed up, you are sweating, you are finally moving towards a healthier version of you.
To say I have been in a better place mentally would be a TOTAL understatement. I feel great! I will admit I was slightly confused when I didn’t drop 10 pounds in the first week, but hey, baby steps. So fast forward to a lovely Thursday, I worked out early, took a shower, and had on a super cute outfit. I was 16 June | July 2021
really loving myself for the first time in a LONG time. I will admit that getting comfortable for shopping the sizes that fit my current body has been hard to get used to but I had made peace with it. You can imagine my surprise when I went to try on a bridesmaid dress for a wedding in August. I give the woman a size range thinking to myself, “I have been working out for 2 weeks surely I have dropped a dress size!!” Here is what I know, not only did I NOT drop a dress size, the dress that fit me was 4 sizes bigger than the size that I usually fit in.
Any ounce of feeling cute, feeling good, feeling healthy, FLEW out of that dressing room. I went from feeling confident to feeling completely deflated…well deflated emotionally but obviously INFLATED physically! Once the shock wore off, I got dressed and didn’t even bother to look in the mirror as I left.
I was driving home and I started thinking about why I was so bummed. I felt confident walking in, I loved the dress on me, but I could not get over the number that was associated with the dress. I have been styling people for long enough to know the huge discrepancy in brands and sizing, so why did I let this bother me so much? The whole way back to my house I basically had to hype myself back up because I refused to let that number on the back of a dress (that I loved and looked great on me) ruin my day.
We all have these moments of insecurity about different parts of our bodies and it is extremely hard to let these moments pass without taking some of our self-worth with it. This is my reminder to you, that you are MORE than enough. The size tag on your dress does NOT mean anything about you as a person. If your goal is to get healthier, that is great! But do not equate happiness with a number because there will always be a brand that
will burst that bubble. This has been a ROUGH year and a half, and I think we need to be a little kinder towards ourselves (and to others). Instead of being angry at your current body, try to show it some gratitude for helping us get through this dumpster fire of a year! Try to show yourself kindness and grace regardless of where you are on your health journey. Try to love yourself through the process. Stay fearless, and SCREW THE SIZE TAGS!!
Questions? Comments? Feel free to email me dkdesignheadwear@gmail.com
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Rotary Club Of Cypress-Fairbanks Celebrates 50 Years Of Service In Cypress Community The Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks hosted its 50th anniversary celebration at Juergen’s Hall Community Center on Saturday, May 15. The event included recognition of community partners, club milestones, special presentations by local officials, followed by dinner and live music by Horizon. Community partners The Living Legacy Center, Cy- Fair Helping Hands, Cypress Assistance Ministries, CyHope, Reach Unlimited, Shield Bearers and Boy Scout Troop 939 were on hand to share information about their organizations. Dinner by Carl’s Barbeque, and homemade desserts by the Rotarians were followed by live entertainment.
Tom S. Ramsey, P.E., Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner
Juergen’s Hall is located at 26026 Hempstead Road, Cypress, Texas 77429. The Cypress-Fairbanks Rotary Foundation assists local and international organizations with support for literacy, hunger, disaster assistance and peace initiatives. The men and women of Rotary pledge “Service Above Self” to improve the lives of others. To learn more about the Rotary Club of Cypress-Fairbanks including local meetings and events, visit www.RotaryCypressFairbanks.org. Dr. Seelpa Keshvala, President of Lone Star College Cypress
Donna McCarty and Michelle Kohl
18 June | July 2021
A $20,000 endowment check was presented to the Cy-Fair Education Foundation
CYPRESS SCHOOL NEWS Source: CFISD News Media Cy Ranch’s Jayden Bazemore Wins State Wrestling Title Using a 2020 state semifinal loss as motivation, Cypress Ranch High School junior Jayden Bazemore completed her quest for atonement on Saturday by winning the Class 6A 128pound wrestling state championship. Bazemore was CFISD’s lone champion and among 10 participants to earn top-six medals at the UIL Wrestling State Tournament, held April 23-24 at the Berry Center. Bazemore completed an undefeated season by beating Plano West’s Devin Paton in an 8-3 decision. That pushed her record to 19-0 for the season. She added the 128-pound title to last year’s fourth-place finish at 119 pounds while attending The Woodlands College Park High School. “This is all I thought about for weeks on end (and) every night before I went to sleep,” Bazemore said. “I wanted it so bad. All those months of training have finally paid off.”
Bridgeland Finishes Season as Regional Quarterfinalists Bridgeland High School advanced to the Regional Quarterfinals and defeated The Woodlands College Park in a best-of-three series by the scores of 5-1 and 6-1. They then lost to Tomball in a best-of-three series by the scores of 4-1 and 2-1. The Bears were District 16-6A champions and finished as regional quarterfinalists.
Bridgeland Junior Andrew Maleski
Cy-Fair Women's Club Announces 2021 Scholarship Recipients
Jayden Bazemore
Annual Superintendent’s Fun Run Raises $120,000
(from left) Keith Grothaus, CFEF chairman; Dr. Mark Henry, CFISD superintendent of schools; Marie Holmes, CFEF executive director; Bevin Gordon, CFISD director of health services and former director of marketing and community relations; Yvette Rodriguez, CFISD community engagement specialist; and Jerry Ashworth, Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital CEO
Through continued and tremendous generosity, CypressFairbanks ISD staff, students, community members and business partners came together to raise $120,000 for the eighth annual Superintendent’s Fun Run, held virtually this year on May 1. CFISD presented a check to the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation (CFEF) on May 5. Tasked to “Run Together From Wherever,” numerous CFISD staff members and students and community members performed their own run or walks virtually on May 1, posting and sharing photos on social media. The Cy-Fair Women’s Club congratulates the following recipients: Mark Bentick - Bridgeland Justin Nguyen - Cy-Fair Evan Delaunay - Cy-Fair Ellie Kolb - Cy-Falls Jennie Kim - Cy-Ranch Ashleigh Letterman - Cy-Ranch
Joshua Vega - Cy-Springs Audrey Knoll - Cy-Woods Melody Nguyen - Cy Woods Ariah Richards - Cy-Woods Blake Stovall - Cypress Christian
“I am so thankful for our CFISD students and staff, our community and of course, our title sponsor, Memorial Hermann Cypress,” said Dr. Mark Henry, CFISD superintendent of schools. “Even though we weren’t able to be together, everyone did their part in making the event a success. I enjoyed seeing the numerous photos on social media and look forward to being back celebrating with the CFISD community in 2022.” PinPointe Magazine
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Cypress Area Seniors
Share Their Plans For After Graduation It’s been a year of transtion for our community’s Bears coming back out into the wildreness and Mustangs running free again. But the Class of 2021 is still looking ahead toward a bright future. The following Seniors have graciously shared their plans for the future with us.
ETHAN ANDERSON
ABBIE BENTON
OLIVIA BREERWOOD
GRACIE BROWN
KAILEy BURKES
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Will attend LeTourneau University to play Soccer and earn a Business Degree with a focus on Marketing.
Texas State University. Studying Music Education & Choral Studies.
Will be attending Sam Houston State University to study Physical Therapy.
Plans to study Nursing at University of Arkansas.
Will be attending Texas State University to study Physical Therapy.
CHASE CABLE
KELSEy MADISON CADIEN
ISLA CAMpBELL
MADDISON CARIASO
JATIN CHAMDAL
Bridgeland High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Bridgeland High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Will attend Northwestern Oklahoma State University on Football Scholarship and study Pre-Law.
Plans to study International Business at Spelman College.
Plans to study Accounting at Texas Tech University.
Plans to attend Hawaii Pacific University.
Plans to attend UTSA and study Civil Engineering.
ELySE CLEVELAND
AMELIA E. DAVIS
AIDEN DECAIRES
TAyLOR DEGROOT
JACKSON DEMENT
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Plans to study Investigative Journalism at Sam Houston State University
Majoring in Political Science at Baylor. Plans to become an Orthopedic Surgeon in the Navy.
Will attend BYU Idaho. Plans to be a Nuclear Engineer.
Plans to study Business at Texas State University.
Will Major Civil Engineering and Swimming for Univesity of Albama
KyLE DICKEy
AINSLEy ENGELKING
KAILEy FRIEDRICH
NATALy L. GONZALEZ
JACK GRIER
Bridgeland High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Bridgeland High School
Will be attending Texas A&M Corpus Christi University to play baseball and study Engineering.
Plans to study Chemical Engineering at the University of Texas.
Plans to attend University of Louisiana Monroe to study Nursing and play Volleyball.
Plans to study Psychology at Brigham Young University Idaho.
Plans to study Finance at University of Mississippi.
KAILEy ELAINE HATTER
WALKER HICKS
KENDALL HOWTON
BRANDON LEE
SARAH LONG
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Plans to attend Baylor or TCU to study Business Marketing/ Entrepreneurship.
Plans to study Chemistry at Texas A&M University
Plans to Major in Business at University of Mississippi.
Will be attending Texas State University McCoy College of Business to study Marketing.
Plans to study Musical Theatre at Howard University.
20 June | July 2021
ABBy McLEMORE
KELSEy McMAHON
KAyLEy MORGAN NGITIT
LILI NOACK
HANNAH pAWLAK
Cypress Woods High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Bridgeland High School
Will attend Sam Houston State University to major in Elementary Education
Plans to study Nursing at University of Tennessee.
Plans to study Landscape Architecture at Texas A&M University.
Will be attending Blinn College to study Business.
Will study Biomedical Engineering at Texas A&M University.
LINDSEy pOLLESCHULTZ
ROBERT pOSTELL
CARTER RADCLIFF
GRAySON SCOTT
DEVIN SHANNON
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Bridgeland High School
Bridgeland High School
Plans to study Business at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor.
Will attend United States Air Force Academy, studing Business / World Class Athlete Program
Will attend University of Houston to study Sports Management.
Plans to study Architectural Design Technology at Lone Star College.
Will pursue a BFA in Business Marketing and Photography at Texas State University.
RANDy SMITH
DAIJAH TAyLOR
MADELINE VAN STAVEREN
WESTON WILLIAMS
MADISON WISSING
Bridgeland High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Bridgeland High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Cypress Ranch High School
Plans to attend University of Alabama for Pre-Med.
Plans to study Political Science at Prairie View A&M University.
Will attend University of Oklahoma to study Astrophysics.
Committed to Hesston College Kansas to study Pre-Med.
Plans to study Pre-Physician Assistant/Biology at University of Mary Hardin Baylor.
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21
e Coffmans Life Through the Lens of a Camera
PINPOINTE RESIDENT PROFILE
and from 40,000 Feet “It’s your world; we are just here to capture it.” - Thomas Coffman
(left to right) Kari, Travis, and Thomas Coffman
By Patricia Hudson
T
homas and Kari Coffman are longtime residents of the Fairfield community. Kari grew up in the Ponderosa neighborhood, in Spring, graduating from Westfield High School. Thomas moved from the Hobby Airport area in the 7th grade, and graduated from Jersey Village High School. “Kari was the better student. She is better at everything,” quips Thomas. “We moved out to Fairfield over 20 years ago to raise Travis, our son, in a better community.” Kari and Thomas have enjoyed interesting life careers. “I was a sports nutrition representative for a bodybuilding company. I had done photography in high school and always had a passion for it. I was interested in bodybuilding and photographed a lot of bodybuilders as a part-time photographer. My son got into photography in high school; I helped him get business and did the editing. He decided to move to Colorado 22 June | July 2021
and I got laid off my job; I took over. Now, here we are, doing it full time for 10 years plus, and blessed by this community,” comments Thomas gratefully. Coffman Photography counts senior photo shoots as a major portion of its business, but after senior photo rush ends, Coffman is known to head west to Utah or Arizona to shoot landscape photography. Likely the most intriguing aspect of his work, Thomas is totally in his element shooting concert venues at The House of Blues, Rise Rooftop, and Warehouse Live. Celebrity subjects include Alice Cooper, Kiss, Slash from Guns N’ Roses, Great White, Cheap Trick, ZZ Top, Foreigner, and Whitesnake. “I love shooting the concerts! That is like AWESOME,” exclaims Coffman. “It would probably surprise most people to know that Alice Cooper is actually a Christian, doesn’t drink, and is an avid golfer; he’s nothing like you would think.”
Kari is a flight attendant with Delta Airlines. After 32 years, she says that her job has actually gotten easier. “When I first started, people could smoke in the back section and we served hot meals on most flights, even short ones. Now, because of COVID, we wear masks and gloves and just pass out a baggie with a water and snacks. For the most part, everyone abides by the regulations. Of course, you always have some on every flight that need a gentle reminder. I’ve had hundreds of celebrities on board, from Jimmy Carter to Hulk Hogan, Phyllis Diller to Paula Abdul. One of my memorable experiences was with a gentleman who was wearing a Pearl Harbor Survivor hat. I asked his daughter with whom he was traveling, his name, and if I could make an announcement when we landed. Just before we parked at the gate, I announced we had a VIP on board, his name and that he had served his country for us during Pearl Harbor; I asked everyone to remain seated to allow him to deplane first. Everyone did stay seated and a loud applause erupted. As he got to the front of the cabin, he turned and saluted everyone. His
daughter gave me a giant hug as she deplaned,” recalls the flight attendant fondly. “Kari works domestic flights, flying into Atlanta Monday through Thursday,” relates Thomas. “On the weekends, Kari helps me with photography. She knows what the girls like, checks for out of place hair and clothing, and is especially good with poses.” The Coffmans have one son, 28year-old Travis. “He was in the first graduating class of Cypress Ranch, (2009). Travis started out at Lone Star, but then he headed out to California, and works for UPS; he just loves it. He lives in Mission Viejo, just five minutes from the beach. He still enjoys photography and skateboarding,” comments Thomas. “Kari and Thomas are definitely the most beautiful and dynamic couple that I’ve ever met. Ever since I was young, I knew that they would be in my life forever. When I lost my father at a young age, I asked them to be my godparents,” shares Brittanie Hammer.
Goddaughter Brittanie Hammer
“Our beautiful goddaughter graduated from Cypress Woods High School in 2010. It was always her dream to go to Disney World with her father; I ended up taking her,” recalls Coffman. “Thomas is so full of that rock star energy; it’s crazy,” adds Brittanie. Her desire to become a singer was so strong that Brittanie started, but didn’t finish college. After signing with an entertainment company, Brittanie followed her dream with singing gigs in such exotic locations as Vietnam, South Korea, Qatar, Malaysia, and Dubai. “Maldives was the best one.” Brittanie auditioned in Nashville for the Navy Fleet Band. “It’s pretty grueling, but I won the audition and am in training at the Virginia Naval Music Academy.” Reflecting on the past 20 years, Kari comments, “We’ve made a ton of friends living in our close-knit community and with our photography. We enjoyed the sports program when Travis was growing up and love seeing the kids on our block go from 5-year-olds to college graduates.” Thomas adds “We are blessed to say that the pandemic has not really impacted us. We’ve worn masks and have a long lens. One thing that we have learned is that life is short and to make the most of everyday. God is great!”
PinPointe Magazine
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