PinPointe Cypress Creek Lakes by Intown Magazine

Contents ON THE COVER: Dr. Sonal Tuljapurkar Photo Credit: Daniel Arizpe Apollo Productions

Serving the Community of Cypress Creek Lakes

From the Classroom to the Board Room, Local Resident Shares her Passion for Education

11 One Last KISS... 12 Cypress Happenings 14 Cypress Resident Makes Meal Time Easier Through Cookin’ With Kim 16 Best of Cy-Fair: Salad Suggestions

18 Elevate Your Man’s Style in 2024 19 Canine Corner 20 The Magic of Music 21 Cypress Music Scene Calendar 22 Cypress School News

Dr. Sonal Tuljapurkar From the Classroom to the Board Room, Cypress Creek Lakes Resident Shares her Passion for Education

PINPOINTE RESIDENT PROFILE

By Patricia Hudson

n selecting individuals that exemplify strength of character, Dr. Sonal Tuljapurkar ranks at the top of our list. Her determination, drive and energy have drawn the attention of multiple Cy-Fair organizations in search of exemplary members. Leslie Martone, President of the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce, holds board member Dr. Tuljapurkar in high regard. “She is a great communicator and an example of what a strong woman is capable of achieving with enough will and passion.” PinPointe Magazine would like to introduce Sonal Tuljapurkar. Where did you begin your life? I was born in Pune and brought up in Mumbai which lies on the west coast of India, one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world. What do you remember of your childhood and your early education?

My dad, Ramesh, was a Merchant Navy Captain and was always away from home, sailing in different parts of the world. My mother, Manasi, earned a Master’s in Politics, but gave up her career to be a home maker. We used to travel around the world with our dad while on vacation. Unfortunately, dad passed away when I was 18 and my sister was 13. Left to raise us by herself, mom instilled in us a ‘never give up’ attitude that has always helped us in life. Where did you attend university? What degree(s) have you been awarded? I attended an English Medium School in Mumbai and completed my Bachelor and Master of Science from Ruia College, University of Mumbai. I achieved the highest GPA and was ranked 1st in college and 3rd in University of Mumbai. As a part of young scientist program, I was selected for a summer research fellowship focusing on human genetics, and was part of human genome project

6 February | March 2024

Photo Credit: Daniel Arizpe - Apollo Productions

that was a world-wide collaboration. The following summer, I was chosen to perform stem cell research. In the early 2000s, stem cell research was an evolving field. With limited funding in India, I applied to Ph.D. programs in the USA. Based on my academic record, research experience and recommendations, I was admitted to The University Texas at Austin with a full scholarship and teaching assistantship. My only point of contact at UT Austin was my uncle’s friend, Tushar Patil. Tushar not only picked me up at the Austin airport, but he helped me get settled and taught me how to live independently in a foreign country. Memories from your courtship and wedding? It was destiny that a couple of months after I landed, Tushar asked me out and proposed to me. I was mentally not in a ‘wedding’ zone. I declined as I had seven years of graduate school ahead of me and that marriage might dampen my goal! Tushar graduated several months later and moved to NYC for work. It is then I realized how much I loved him and could not imagine living without him. I followed him to NYC by transferring from UT. We lived there for about a year after getting married in India in July 2005, in the presence of families and friends.

When presented with a stem cell research opportunity, together with a better work situation for my mechanical engineer husband, we moved to Omaha, Nebraska. After four years of stem cell research, a teaching fellowship at the medical center and several research publications in scientific journals, I was awarded a PhD degree by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. What led you to follow a career in education? A month after moving to Houston, my mom passed away in India; there was a void in my life that nothing and no one could fill. For an entire year, I lost motivation, merely existing, and realized I had stopped living. I stumbled upon an advertisement for a Lone Star College, Cy-Fair Career Fair. I decided to pursue my passion for teaching and showed up at the career fair. I was hired immediately as an adjunct faculty for Biology. I enjoyed my 7 am lectures and lab and assisted in setting up a pilot program for Microbiology at the Cypress Center. Several year later, I started missing my scientific research when a position at a stem cell therapeutics lab opened up. It was my dream position! I set out to make a difference in the outcome for spinal cord injury patients. I was finally utilizing my scientific training in stem cell research.

On which boards/nonprofit organizations are you currently active? I am serving on the Board of Directors of the CyFair Houston Chamber of Commerce, Shield Bearer Counseling Centers, Leadership North Houston, and the Peace Foundation. Progeny? We have one son, 14 -year-old Vihaan Patil. A freshman

Dr. Sonal Tuljapurkar hosts a large gathering of friends at a celebration of Makar Sankranti, marking the beginning of summer solstice. Photo Credit: Patricia Hudson

Once an educator, always an educator. I was missing teaching and working with students, so I brainstormed ways to bring meaning to my teaching passion. Club Z! In-Home Tutoring of Cypress was formed in 2016 to fulfill my passion for teaching and student success. Education from a business standpoint was different and challenging. For a person always behind a lab bench doing experiments, meeting new people, networking and marketing my business was unchartered territory for me. Joining the CyFair Houston Chamber of Commerce helped me to navigate my business. The success of my Club Z! students gave me the necessary wind under my wings; I resigned from my scientific position and focused on Club Z! In-Home Tutoring full time. PinPointe Magazine

at Cypress Ranch High School, Vihaan enjoys swimming and represents the Cypress Creek Lakes community in summer swimming leagues. What role does your culture play in your daily lives and in the raising of your child? Indian culture is vibrant with colors, rich with respect and diverse with language and food! We have taught our son about respecting elders, not wasting food on the plate, removing shoes outside when visiting other families, speaking Marathi (our native language) and Hindi, watching Bollywood films, enjoying Indian cuisine and celebrating both Indian and American festivals such as Diwali and Christmas. What holiday do you observe in the new year? In January, we celebrate Makar Sankranti, marking the beginning of summer solstice or movement of sun into the northern hemisphere and the harvest season in India. Pairing my social event with local non-profit organizations, I have collected donations for Cy-Hope, BEAR (Be a Resource), and Shield Bearer Counseling Centers. This year, approximately 40 Indian women friends dressed in hues of black sarees gathered together at my home for good conversation and delicious Indian fare served by my sister, Sneha, who was visiting from India. They brought gifts of blankets, coats, and gloves for Cy-Fair Helping Hands. As the custom dictates, I applied turmeric and vermillion to the foreheads of each of the married women. Hobbies?

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I love to travel. Our family visited Amsterdam and Germany over Thanksgiving, and we travel to India every year. I love to act in theater and short films and have several dramas and socially relevant short films to my credit. I’m an artist; my home walls are decorated with several paintings I made over the years.

PinPointe Magazine

10 February | March 2024

Fairfield resident and contributing photographer, Thomas Coffman, is an avowed lover of ROCK ‘n Roll. When he heard that KISS would be swinging through Texas on their End of the Road Tour, he traveled to Austin to shoot this iconic band.

One last KISS... Story & Photos by Thomas Coffman/Coffman Rock Shots

ISS was formed in January of 1973. 50 years later, they will go down in history as one of the biggest rock bands ever formed. The original four members created something that was so amazing that the world of rock music would never be the same. Sales wise, the first three albums were nothing to brag about, but the live shows were sell-outs. It has always been about the live shows! Beginning with the little clubs and working their way to the biggest venues in the world, KISS would conquer the dreams they had as children. Once the KISS Alive! album came out, the rollercoaster ride began. This album not only saved their careers, but also the record company. KISS is the biggest gold record awarded band ever; breaking attendance records set by The Beatles in Tokyo. KISS merchandise is a multi-million-dollar business that includes, but is not limited to condoms, caskets, and even a comic book with their blood in the red ink. Among their business enterprises, KISS has done movies, cruises, and restaurants. Personally, I recommend that you visit KISS MONSTER GOLF and KISS WORLD in Vegas; both will blow your mind!! I travel to a lot of places to photograph concerts and when I return home, I'm pretty worn out. I started thinking about KISS, the makeup and the costumes, wondering how in the hell have they been doing the rigorous travel schedule, appearances and events for 50 YEARS? Initially, when KISS announced the End of The Road Tour, I was in denial. How could my heroes be calling it quits? Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. KISS honestly has nothing more to prove.

The opening band, AMBER WILD, was lead by Evan Stanley, son of Paul Stanley. I was pleasantly surprised with the musicianship. Stanley, who was on vocals and shared guitar leads, was very impressive. The band really had it together, sounded tight and was definitely entertaining. All around a great show with catchy tunes and good looks. Definitely keep an eye out for them! It was a Sunday night and the final show in Texas. Believe me, no one was thinking about work the next day. Everyone focused on those four men, blowing us away one last time. The voice behind the giant curtain screams, "You wanted the best, you got the best!" You got chills as if you were a thirteen-year-old kid again. The curtain drops and it's just the biggest stage setup that you could imagine! Three platforms came floating down with smoke shooting straight down like a spaceship. A huge drum riser brought down the Catman surrounded by drums. The band kicked in with "Detroit Rock City" and the crowd was engulfed in the spectacle that is KISS. 50 years of great songs and theatrics packed into one night was delivered in style! The fire breathing, blood spitting Demon never disappoints. The Star Child was always the showman that everyone expects and loves. The Spaceman with killer guitar riffs and sparks shooting from his guitar was out of this world. The Catman was purrrrfect behind the skins, keeping the timing for the band. It all came together to bring the best show in rock history. With The End of The Road comes an end of an amazing career for the biggest band ever. It's been a hell of a ride! For the unedited article, go to www.bestofcyfair.com PinPointe Magazine

Cypress

HAPPENINGS

Parenting Your Teenage Student: Transition & Change Goodson Middle School • 17333 Huffmeister • Cypress, TX 77429 Tuesdays: Feb. 20 & 27, March 5, 2024 • 6-8pm For Parents/Guardians of children ages 11-17. Learn research proven strategies addressing communication, expectations, social media challenges, emotional/behavioral concerns and more. Register at: https://www.cfisd.net/Page/6459

7th Annual CYFEN Chili Challenge Saturday, February 17, 2024 • 1am-4pm Creekwood Grill • 12710 Telge • Cypress, TX 77429 Live Music, Games, Raffle & More! Free to visit / $5 to taste each team’s chili and vote: form.jotform.com/Cyfen/chili-cookoff-tickets

YMCA Under the City Lights Saturday, February 24, 2024 • 7-10:30pm The Westin Houston • 945 Gessner • Houston, TX 77024 Benefitting YMCA Miracle League and Adaptive Programs. Gaze at the breathtaking views of the Houston skyline and enjoy a fabulous night of food, fun, and libations for a great cause. Truly, a Party With A Purpose! Tickets: one.bidpal.net/partywithapurpose2024

Concert at the Park: Southern Country Saturday, March 23, 2024 • 6pm Clark Henry Park • Equador Street • Jersey Village, TX 77040 Join us for Southern Country, the 2018 CMA of Texas Band of the Year

FROM THE VINE MINISTRIES The Vineyard is a refreshing ministry center hosting Biblical and practical classes/events for women such as Adoption support groups, Senior citizens mentoring high school seniors, Grief dinners, and College kids helping high school kids. To learn more or to get a schedule of monthly events, go to fromthevineministries.com, info@fromthevineministries.com, or contact Cyndy Gusler (281) 413-3256

TRAVELING SENIOR OF CYPRESS TRIPS & ACTIVITIES February 13 (Day Trip): Hemi-Hideout and Hamburgers: After the sun rises over the blissful fields of Brookshire, the morning mist fades, revealing one of Texas' greatest hidden treasures; we will be there to explore the Hemi-Hideout—one of Texas' greatest hidden treasures. Enjoy a jaw-dropping collection of neon signs and an impressive display of classic automobiles. Cost: $10.00. We will departure from Fairfield Baptist Church at 9:00 am. February 23 through March 1, 2024: Sail the open seas! Travelers will set off from Galveston and sail aboard the Norwegian Prima, one of their newest and most innovative ships. Ports of entry include Harvest Caye, Belize, Roatán, Honduras, and Cozumel, Mexico. On April 3-11, 2024, in Washington, DC, at Cherry Blossom Time: Two guided trout of Washington DC, including the WWII Memorial, Capitol Hill, Embassy Row, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Smithsonian, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Museum of the Bible, George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and a Tram Ride through Arlington National Cemetery. $1295. The bus leaves FBC on Wednesday, April 3, at 8:00 am. September 14-22, 2024 Myrtle Beach Show Trip, Enjoy Legends in Concert, Carolina Opry & Alabama Theatre, Le Grand Cirque, The Man of a Thousand Voices, Barefoot Landing, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade and the unique L.W. Paul Living History Farm. $1229. The bus leaves FBC on September 14 at 8:00 am.

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For info, contact Jo Ann at pstlgrl@gmail.com or Jackie at jackie.devine@comcast.net.

PinPointe Magazine

Cypress Resident Makes Meal Time Easier Through

Photo Credit: Patricia Hudson

Cookin’ With Kim As shared by Chef Kim Liberta

Executive Chef and entrepreneur Kim Liberta has faced some major life challenges, yet she has persevered and runs a successful multi-faceted business known as Cookin’ with Kim. Chef Kim is one of five strong business women being featured in the current editions of PinPointe Magazine.

started cooking as a child in the small town of Ridgefield, Connecticut where I grew up. My parents were small business owners for over 30 years, and I saw the hard work and dedication needed to succeed in business. I was blessed with loving parents and an amazing high school culinary arts teacher that encouraged me to follow my culinary dreams. I saw and experienced a lot after graduating in the early 90’s with my Culinary Arts Degree from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. I trained with some amazing talent and lived and worked in large cities and small towns around the country. I reached my goal of Executive Chef by the age of 30 and was running 3 concepts under one roof. We had an American Café, French Bistro and Take and Go bakery with fresh breads, sold wholesale, and catered too! This experience was one of my favorites because no matter what crazy, creative idea I had, it would fall under one of these concepts. I resigned as Executive Chef when I was eight months pregnant, and my cooks could no longer pass my belly. The opportunity to become a full-time mom was available to me and I happily accepted. In 2005, When Lucynda was two and a half we moved to Cypress, Texas. Once settled into our new environment, I joined the local MOMS Club, and that is when my life would change again, both personally and professionally and never be the same! In talking to fellow moms, I found that many struggled with preparing healthy meals every day. People are often hesitant to try new dishes, and frequently find themselves trying to prepare something in 30 minutes or less before running off to meetings, soccer games or dance practice. It was through this realization that the concept of Cookin’ with Kim began. In 2010, at the end of my daughter's first year of elementary school, her father and I divorced. Living with an alcoholic partner struggling with mental illness was not a healthy thing for either Lucynda or I. I was no longer able to work part time while staying home with Lucy, but wanted to ensure that I would remain present and available for her. I 14 February | March 2024

chose not to return to professional kitchens which often require 80+ hours a week out of the house. I continued to offer hot meals once a week and took a full-time position at Cy Fair Independent School District Administrative Staff Café. This allowed me the ability to have a similar schedule to Lucy's school schedule. God placed me there for a reason that first year with the "All girls" house. The older women there were the rocks I needed to transition my life. By the end of that school year, feeling brave, scared and a bit crazy, I quit my job with the school district and decided to take Cookin' with Kim full time! The concept was “making mealtime easier,” so whenever something came up and I needed an influx of income, I came up with another part of the business. I went full time with Hot Meals, serving 40-65 people a night, Freezer Meals, expanded to teaching Summer Camps and Adult Classes and eventually catering. I have grown Cookin’ with Kim immensely over the years. I have had the opportunity to work with so many people in my community, teaching people ages 3-92! Over the past 17 years, my business and my own life have taken many different twists, turns, ups and downs. I have divorced, raised an amazing daughter on my own, removed myself from an abusive relationship, vacated a rental home after seven years, due to the homeowner wanting to sell

abruptly, fell in love, found amazing friendships and grew two amazing businesses. I have always been a “half-full” kind of girl and have been able to pick myself up, dust myself off and persevere and that is what I have done! When I set my mind to something, I put my heart, soul, sweat and tears into that goal and that has brought me to today! Being a single mom, in ALL facets, with no blood family nearby changes a person, and in my case, for the better. I have always been a strongly motivated person, but having Lucynda Rose in my life brought on a whole new level! I always want to put Lucy Rose first and wanting the very best for her continues to keep me motivated and working hard for her, myself and my community! Lucy Rose has observed first-hand the industry and her mom’s role in it. “After being surrounded by the culinary world since I was literally in the womb, I could never do it myself. The physical and mental toll is intense and only a special person could be successful in that. I love to experiment and cook at home for my friends and family, but that’s about it. My mom has been my biggest role model in life, watching her grow her business into what it has become has been amazing to watch. Her skills and what she has accomplished in life, despite the obstacles, is something I’m grateful to have been able to witness.” Lucynda Rose is a 20-year-old student at Arizona State University where she is studying Mass Communication and Media Studies.

Photo Credit: Patricia Hudson PinPointe Magazine

Getting Off The Best of Cy-Fair P L A C E S T O E AT to a Great Start in 2024 Salad Suggestions from Your Cy-Fair Neighbors By Patricia Hudson

o, if New Year’s Resolutions are meant to be broken, maybe concentrating on a general “I will try to eat better this year,” would be a good place to begin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 1 in 10 Americans eat the recommended 5 cups of fruits and vegetables per day. Since the base of a salad is usually at least 1 to 2 cups of leafy greens, eating a salad every day can help you meet the daily recommendations. Without eating enough fruits and vegetables, some people may not get enough essential vitamins and minerals, which can lead to a deficiency and unwanted side effects. "Green leafy vegetables commonly eaten in salads—like romaine lettuce, spinach, arugula and kale—are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E," says Catherine Karnatz, RD, creator of Nutrition Education RD. "These vitamins may support healthy eyesight, help immune function and protect against certain cancers." In addition, many vitamins double as antioxidants with antiinflammatory effects in the body. Not to mention, many salads contain essential minerals, like potassium, iron, magnesium and more. (Excerpts from Eating Well). 16 February | March 2024

Barbeque Chicken Salad Creekwood Grill

Where to Go? What to Order?

We asked our Cy-Fair community about their “go-to” locally owned and operated restaurants that serve the best salads. Here are some of their favorites.

We are big fans of the Strawberry Salad at The Original Rib Tickler. All of the salads I've tried so far are good. It's a wonderful place. Service is fantastic; they've been in business since 1984. (28930 Highway 249) -Joy Lovell Andy’s Bar & Grill - Wedge Salad

2 Guys 1 Pit has great seasonal salads. Their Peppered Turkey and Spinach Salad is really good. (11711 Spring Cypress Rd.) -Andrea Reed Perryman

Andy’s Bar & Grill Cypress has a great Wedge Salad with yummy Ranch or Blue Cheese! (27200 US 290) -Gwen Hill Texas Mesquite Grill Cypress has an amazing Ahi Tuna Salad, Steak Salad or regular with

fantastic Ranch dressing or Balsamic! (27104 Northwest Freeway) -Gwen Hill

The Union Kitchen - Boost Bowl

Nyam Nyam Cafe’s Tomato, Feta and Cucumber Salad is amazing! (15201 Mason Rd.) -Laura Robbins

I like the Barbeque Chicken Salad at Creekwood Grill (12710 Telge Road), and the Greek Salads at Gratos Italian Restaurant (20503 FM 529), and Athena’s Greek & European Kitchen 13250 FM 529) -Linda Brosky Grape

Season’s Harvest Café’s seasonal salads are always good; you can add protein, avocados, etc. So fresh and delicious! (173-3 Shaw Road) -Shannon Raske

The Taco Salad at Texas Mesquite Grill is great! (27104 Northwest Freeway) -Andrea Curran

For Mediterranean/Middle Eastern salads (like Tabouli Salad with crushed wheat toasted with extra virgin olive oil and herb dressing, parsley,

tomatoes, fresh mint, and scallions), my personal favorite is Raja Mediterranean Food & Sweets (11650 Jones Rd.) -Mansoor Rizvi

The Toasted Yolk Cafe offers great salad choices with their Southern Fried Chicken Salad and Shrimp Cilantro Salad (27008 Hwy 290) -Metta Marie Archilla

The Union Kitchen Boardwalk Towne Lake is a solid choice for Salads...The Boost Bowl Salad and Twisted Caesar Salad (9955 Barker Cypress Road) -Metta Marie Archilla

Local Table offers up some freaking amazing on point salads: Honey-Ginger Roasted Brussels Sprout Salad and Beef Tenderloin Fajita Salad (10535 Fry Road) -Metta Marie Archilla

PinPointe Magazine

ELEVATE YOUR MAN’S STYLE IN 2024 By Allison Okuneye

NEW HAIR WHO DIS? This may be a bit trickier, but can make a HUGE difference! Scroll online for haircuts that are best for your man’s face shape. See what options are available, and drop a little hint that he might look great with this new style! Some men might not even need a cut, maybe it's just styling his current hair a different way. A gift card to a new barber who can clean up and refresh the facial hair might be a great idea! Most men have not changed their hairstyle in years, and there might be a more updated look out there that would look great on him! Some men have a harder time changing and elevating their personal style. They tend to find something that works, and stick to it for the rest of their adult lives. If you have been wanting to update your man’s style but don’t quite know how to approach the subject, I am here to help! Since men are creatures of habit you have to know starting off that this is a slow process, not an instant makeover. Focus on one area at a time, and once they see the improved compliments and self esteem they will be more likely to trust the process.

SHAPE AND SIZE MATTER This concept goes for Men AND Women. We tend to buy clothes that are too big in order to “hide” the areas we are self-conscious of. This actually has the opposite effect. For men specifically, a slimmer, well fitting, high quality t-shirt will be a great starting point. Most men’s tees are short and boxy, and do not fit most “dad bods”. When shopping for shirts look for a longer/slimmer fitting style. One of my husband’s favorite brands is BYLT Basics. These shirts last forever, and don’t lose their shape after washing. **Not sponsored, just big fans**

With any suggestion you decide to make it is SUPER IMPORTANT to be aware of your TONE and the way the idea of change is presented. I would start slowly,working on one area at a time. You will get an idea of how open your man is to change. And regardless of how you feel, it is up to him to decide whether or not he is open to any changes. It is crucial that you do NOT take a negative approach, but rather make suggestions that you think might “look great on him”. If he tries it out and the change works on him, FLOOD THE COMPLIMENTS GIRL! Men need to feel wanted in the same way that we do, and this encouragement will help him be more open minded about other style changes In the future!

REMEMBER You are NOT trying to CHANGE your husband into someone he is not. You are just helping him ELEVATE what is already there to help him reach his full potential! Good luck ladies! I can’t wait to hear your success stories! :).

Stay Fearless

For information about DK Design Headwear, go to: dkdesignheadwear.com | FB/INSTA @dkdesignheadwear 18 February | March 2024

Canine Corner By Patricia Hudson and Sophia Hudson, the Rescue Yorkiepoo

eenie is a delightful little bundle of energy, a six-month-old retriever mix. Meenie’s name does not do her justice; she is a sweetie! Always the first to explore new things, her curiosity knows no bounds. Meenie loves to play with her siblings and is quite the social butterfly. She's a quick learner, too, making her a great candidate for puppy training classes. Meenie’s story came to us from Corridor Rescue, Inc., a street dog rescue. Cypress resident and Director Dawn Venditelli explains, “We rescue dogs right from the Corridor. Some of the dogs at the kennel have been in our care for 1000+ days. They have been abandoned, hit by cars, mutilated by humans, shot, and may be heartworm positive.” To inquire about Meenie, contact info@corridorrescue.org.

Meenie PinPointe Magazine

The Magic of Music

by Liz Arrington

usic is some kind of magic. When we hear a certain song, we can immediately be transported back in time. It evokes a memory, a moment, a person, and connects us across generations. A simple beat can bring a whole party together. Music provides the soundtrack of our lives. It helps us focus, helps us think, or helps us avoid thinking. It makes us move. It makes us feel.

Nearly everyone you meet has a connection to music. We listen in our cars, in the grocery store, and in elevators. We center our holidays and cultural experiences around shared songs. We use it to teach and comfort our children, set the mood in TV and movies, and hype up a crowd at sporting events. Music really is everywhere! There is rarely a moment in my household when music isn’t playing. As my kids have grown and developed their own tastes it’s the source of many arguments. One kid wants to listen to classical and loud marching band songs, one wants to listen to classic 80’s rock and loud viral internet songs geared for school age kids. I just want something quiet, folksy, and peaceful! There is a song for every mood and activity, and the more we listen the more our identity is shaped through music. We all have that one song: maybe the song of the moment, or maybe the song of our life, that really resonates and makes us think “that’s my jam!” That one song that never fails to hype us up, bring a smile to our face, or remind us of who we are. When we think about it, it really does seem like magic. But the magic of music is actually a pretty fascinating and complex function of brain chemistry. Research has revealed that when we listen to music, our brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that triggers sensations of pleasure and well-being. These “feel good moments” are rooted in our memory, so

20 February | March 2024

that we experience that surge of dopamine each time we hear or are reminded of that song. And, it doesn’t stop there! Music does more for us than make us feel good. Neuroscience has shown us that music strengthens and activates multiple areas of the brain. Music is known to support functions of auditory processing, speech and language, memory, and executive functioning. Even aspects of physical health can be boosted with music! Research has shown that listening to music can reduce anxiety, blood pressure, and pain as well as improve sleep quality, mood, and mental alertness. Here are a few ways you and your family can turn up the tunes, create some memories and build your brains with music:

• Create a shared family music playlist: everyone can contribute their favorite songs!

• Play Name That Tune: try to stump each other and see who can recognize familiar songs first

• DJ for the night: take turns picking the music to listen to during family time

• Make boring jobs fun: blast music from your 20’s when cleaning, cooking, or working

• See live music together: many of our local restaurants feature local musicians

• Stay Songful: be intentional about how you listen and incorporate music into your daily life. 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 songfulbeginnings.com

MAC’S SPORTS BAR 3/1 THE SPICOLIS 9PM MO’S IRISH PUB | CYPRESS 2/17 THE SPICOLIS 8PM

BFE ROCK CLUB 2/9 WINSTON COOK BAND 9PM 2/10 307 DEPARTURE 9PM 2/16 SCREAM THERAPY 9PM 2/17 BEARD FEST 2024 9PM 2/23 LUNARA W/ DOUG WESCOTT 9PM 2/24 SPENSERS BIRTHDAY SHOW 9PM 3/1 AGONY | 7 9PM 3/3 BIGGER AND BETTER TOUR 9PM 3/8 GODFATHER FEST 9PM 3/29 CEDARS & FRIENDS 9PM 3/30 OVERTIMES 9PM BREW:30 TAPHOUSE 2/10 EVITTS & TERRANOVA ACOUSTIC DUET 6:30-9:30PM 2/16 RIGHTEOUS CAUSE TRIO 6:30-9:30PM 2/17 MIKE AMABILE 6:30-9:30PM 2/23 MARCUS BREIDENTHAL 6:30-9:30PM CREEKWOOD GRILL 2/9 JEFF CANADA 6:30PM 2/10 KENDALE WALKER 6:30PM 2/16 MARK CHILDRES 6:30PM 2/17 NATE GORDON & DARYL SKEETERS 6:30PM 2/23 HEATHER RAYLEEN 6:30PM 2/24 MIKE GILBERT 6:30PM CYPRESS TRAIL HIDEOUT 2/9 HIT N RUN BAND 7PM 2/10 TRACE ELEMENTS 7PM 2/16 MATTHEW AUSTIN HUNT 7PM 2/17 PETE SCAFIDI 7PM 2/23 RANDY HULSEY 7PM 2/24 SHADES OF GRAY 7PM HIDDEN CELLAR WINE BAR 2/8 LEO MENDOzA 7PM 2/9 PETE SCAFIDI 7PM 2/10 MIKE CASEY 7PM 2/14 RICK MARCEL 6:30-9:30PM 2/15 STACEY STEELE 7PM 2/16 ALEJANDRO MIRAMONTES 7PM 2/17 LISA WHITLEY 7PM 2/22 JOHN BARRAzA 7PM 2/23 NIK RINCON 7PM 2/24 PETE SCAFIDI 7PM 2/29 CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY

MO’S IRISH PUB | VINTAGE 2/9 THE RIKKIS 8PM 2/10 THE SPICOLIS 8PM 2/16 SOL FLAIR 8PM 2/17 TIMELESS HTX 8PM 2/23 THE SPOTLIGHTS 8PM 2/24 TIME WARP 8PM ROSEHILL BEER GARDEN KARAOKE W/ DJ DOMINqUE LOVE THURSDAYS 7-11PM 2/9 DYLAN RHYS 7-10PM 2/10 RANDY HULSEY 7-10PM 2/16 KATIE KATY 7-10PM 2/17 BRIAN THOMAS II 7-10PM 2/23 MIKE AMABILE 7-10PM 2/24 TEXAS REMEDY 7-10PM THE BARN 2/9 KENNY COOPER 8PM 2/10 RIVER CREAGER 8PM 2/16 CHRIS JOHNSON 8PM 2/17 CLOSED FOR PRIVATE EVENT 2/23 BRIAN WOLFF & THE HOWLERS 8PM 2/24 JES SCHNEIDER 8PM 3/1 SHOTGUN SALLY 8PM 3/2 BOY BAND REVIEW 8PM 3/8 CLOSED FOR PRIVATE EVENT 3/9 UNDER THE SON 8PM 3/15 THE SPICOLIS 8PM 3/15 TBA 3/22 GARY KYLE 8PM 3/23 CMS MUSIC FEST 1-11PM TICKETS REqUIRED 3/29 MAX STALLING 8PM 3/30 MR WONDERFUL 8PM

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CYPRESS SCHOOL NEWS Source: CFISD News Media

District Wrestlers Earn Medals at 2024 CFISD Invitational Thirty-three CFISD wrestlers won medals in their respective weight classes at the 21st annual CFISD Invitational, held Jan. 5-6 at the Berry Center. The largest boys’ and girls’ tournament of its kind in the nation, the invitational drew 80 boys’ teams and 78 girls’ teams traveling from as far away as El Paso. The Cypress Ranch High School girls’ team placed fifth overall in the tournament, scoring 127.5 points. Flower Mound won the invitational with 190.5 points, followed by runner-up Harker Heights (181) and third-place Klein Oak (151). Other CFISD girls’ teams to place among the top 25 teams were Langham Creek High School (14th, 98), Jersey Village High School (18th, 89) and Cypress Woods High School (22nd, 76.5). In the boys’ tournament, Langham Creek had the highest finish among CFISD teams, placing eighth with 145 points. El Paso Eastwood placed first with 181, followed by runner-up Smithson Valley (175) and third-place Midlothian (173). Other CFISD boys’ teams to place among the top 25 were Cypress Ranch (12th, 122.5), Cypress Falls High School (16th, 106.5) and Bridgeland High School (17th, 102). CFISD’s top-8 medalists in each weight class included the following students: Kooper Good, Cy-Ranch – 3rd Place: Boys 138 lbs Breyden Jefferies-Arndt, Bridgeland – 8th Place: Boys 157 lbs Clayton Amador, Cypress Ranch – 5th Place: Boys 175 lbs Omar Khan, Bridgeland – 1st Place: Boys 285 lbs Arianna Beltran, Cypress Ranch – 2nd Place: Girls 107 lbs Mariah Smith, Cypress Ranch – 3rd Place: Girls 120 lbs Layla Miranda, Bridgeland – 4th Place: Girls 120 lbs Lillian Baynes, Cypress Woods – 7th Place: Girls 138 lbs Raylan Ross, Cypress Ranch – 5th Place: Girls 152 lbs Viviana Barboza, Cypress Woods – 3rd Place: Girls 165 lbs

Cy-Ranch senior Mariah Smith, left, and Bridgeland senior Layla Miranda compete in the third-place match of the girls’ 120-pound weight class. Smith placed third and Miranda placed fourth in the division. Bridgeland senior Omar Khan celebrates after winning the title in the boys’ 285-pound weight class.

Dr. Douglas Killian Succeeds Dr. Mark Henry as Superintendent of Schools “I am excited to join an exceptional district in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, and plan to draw from my experience and dedication to continue adding to the successes of the district and its students,” Dr. Killian said. “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.”

CFISD Musicians Named to TMEA 2023-2024 All-State Ensembles Thirty-eight CFISD high school music students recently earned All-State honors through the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) audition process.

The following CFISD students were among those earning TMEA All-State honors:

Students began the process of competing locally in the fall semester and advanced through a series of rigorous competition rounds to eventually earn this performance distinction. Earning All-State honors is the highest distinction of a Texas music student can receive. Approximately 1,875 students were selected to receive the honor through the audition process that began with more than 70,000 students from across the state. Approximately 2.6% of students who went through the audition process earned All-State honors.

BRIDGELAND BAND Tristan Moreland BRIDGELAND CHOIR Donovan Duarte Walter Rodriguez Carter Crites Jonah Moore Leah Grigsby Frida Hernandez CY-RANCH BAND Brayden Booher CY-RANCH CHOIR Kieran Newton

“CFISD students continue to represent themselves at the highest levels of musical performance,” said John Morrison, director of fine arts. “This year is no exception. We are proud to celebrate these students and their accomplishment of earning a seat in a TMEA AllState ensemble.” The students have been invited to the TMEA Clinic/Convention on Feb. 7-10 in San Antonio where they will work with world-class conductors to present All-State concerts. TMEA is the largest music education conference of its kind in the world.

22 February | March 2024

CY-WOODS BAND Trevor Brutka Alan Zhang Simon Xu Ronan Boudreaux CY-WOODS CHOIR Caden Stamp Matthew Bender Shikha Banerjie CY-WOODS ORCHESTRA Nina Chen Renee Wang

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