Trish Powell
Fairfield’s
Resident
Celebrity Shares Her Gift of Song With Her Community
By Patricia Hudson
Editor’s Note: Fairfield Women’s Club Hospitality
Chair Trish Powell has been on our radar for several years. We finally caught up with her recently. After hearing about her extensive credits as a singer, entertainer, and actor, we couldn’t wait to interview her for PinPointe Magazine.
Trish Powell was born and raised “…in a quiet little town, east of Atlanta, Georgia. I moved to Texas many, many years ago and this is home for me,” she explains.
Trish comes from a musical family. “My dad was a Baritone and my mom sang 1st – Mezzo Soprano. They both contributed to my vocal range. Mom used to sing in the church choir and around the house. Daddy would sing and play guitar with my uncle Roy on the front porch. We were always excited when Uncle Roy and his wife came from Louisiana on their Harley-Davidson and really enjoyed hearing them both play their guitars and sing the Blues and Jazz. Uncle Roy Dunn was a writer as well; his music can still be found on YouTube.”
Music came to the talented songstress at an early age. “I believe that I started singing as a toddler. I was often humming or belting out tunes from the radio, television programs, or songs that my dad or mom would sing to me. At a very young age, and coaxed by my mom,
church members often requested that I sing special songs or hymns during the Praise and Worship segment of our services.” A single solo performance in an elementary school pageant ignited a fire in young Trish; she progressed to musical theatre and talent showcases in middle school. Her musical talent once led an older schoolmate that had recently lost his mom to request that she sing for him. “He sorrowfully wept as I sang ‘Ain’t No Sunshine When She’s Gone.’ I sang it at least three times,” recalls Powell.
“By the time I got to high school, I was doing lead vocals for choral concerts, and performing in musical theatre productions. I represented my school at the Literary Meet, in the Girl’s Solo competition category. My teacher worked tirelessly with me; I won 2nd place for my school. My most memorable performance
was that of a singer and dancer in the ‘The Ugly Duckling.’ It was written by an Emory University music professor and best friend to my high school drama teacher.”
In college, Trish expanded her repertoire from lead and supporting roles in college musical theatre productions to touring as a member of the Evangelistic Singers groups and campus events. “I was also asked to share music at special campus programs. I was always thrilled when asked to sing the National Anthem at the Opening Ceremonies of conventions, sporting events, marathons, campus and community rallies.
Following college, my performance requests were growing. My husband Jackie, my biggest supporter, (together with my son Lee) and I decided that we needed to create a company that would manage my performances. We created SINGSPIRATIONS, LLC. We named my shows TRISH LIVE. TRISH LIVE Hence…SINGSPIRATIONS Presents,” she explains.
As a member of the Souls Show Live Music Group, an extraordinary opportunity presented itself for Trish’s musical career. Archie Bell & the Drells, a Houston based R&B vocal group in the 1960’s and 70’s, was in search of female background singers. “One of the members of the Souls Show group was a collaborator with Archie Bell and the Drells’ booking team. It was a new Initiative that Archie was trying out. I auditioned with some of his songs and he was very pleased. Archie Bell and his Drelletes were a hit at venue performances. “Tighten Up”, “I Can’t Stop Dancing”, and “Let’ Groove”, were Archie’s legendary hits that I enjoyed performing.”
Trish returned to acting in 2017. “My Internet Movie Data Base (IMDB) page has 47 credits that I have earned in Film, TV, Web Series, Animation, and Voice Over. Nana’s Secret Recipe and the Red Box are both streaming on Amazon Prime and Tubi TV. I am a lead actress in both projects,” states the actress.
“As TRISH LIVE, my Interactive show, I have been booked to perform at foster homes, retirement communities, Autistic & special needs facilities, youth church events, assisted living centers, adult
day-care facilities, special church programs, birthday celebrations, weddings, receptions, funerals and memorial ceremonies. I have also performed at non-profit organizations such as foster grandparents, Catholic Charities and Senior Companions volunteer recognition luncheons. For fun, I do storytelling via Music or TV/Film.”
Reflecting on her musical and film entertainment career, Trish comments, “I am so very fortunate to have been blessed with such a diverse musical gift, vocal range, and the skill of creative storytelling. I have encouraged, inspired, and touched audiences from ages 1 to 92. I thank God for such an honor!”
When time allows, Trish can be found working in her flower garden and creating unique crafts. She enjoys using her crafting skills for the Fairfield Women’s Club.
If you know of an exceptional Greater Fairfield, Bridgeland/Blackhorse Ranch, Towne Lake, Coles Crossing, or Cypress Creek Lakes individual or family that needs to be featured in an upcoming issue of PinPointe Magazine, please email: texasteacher024@outlook.com.
The Best of Cy-Fair
By Patricia Hudson
PinPointe Magazine opted for a different take for our restaurant reviews this edition. We chose to highlight two unique establishments: Senate Avenue Brewing Company and The Daly Round Indoor Golf and Lounge. Less than 10 miles apart, why not jump on US290 and visit them both?
Senate Avenue Brewing Company PLACES T O EAT
The Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce held the August networking breakfast in a most unlikely place: Senate Avenue Brewing Company. Andrew Mitcham, owner of Senate Avenue, hosted the event, which also served as a ribbon cutting, “Just 4 years later but… oh well,” joked Mitcham. (His story is intriguing; In the wake of 911, he left UT to join the Army and became a combat medic, earned his EMT Certification and taught Combat Lifesaver courses across the country. He did a stint in the
Corporate IT world before starting his own IT company with his brother-in-law. Moving back to Jersey Village, he married and served as the Mayor of JV. While his ultimate goal was to attract a brewery to his city, ironically, he now owns one!)
Getting back to Senate Brewing Company; they are billed as a nanobrewery and taphouse, and sell wine by the glass and bottle. The fullservice kitchen offers unique fare such as fried artichoke hearts and crab cakes, bison and black bean burgers, street tacos, (Our breakfast tacos and biscuits were delicious), and blackened redfish. SABC is family friendly; even dogs are welcome on the patio.
Senate Avenue Brewing Company 16000 Dillard Drive • Unit F Jersey Village, TX 77040 (832) 295-3188
Days/Hours of Operation: Sunday: Noon-7pm
Monday-Friday: 11am-9pm Saturday: Noon-9 pm
The Daly Round Indoor Golf and Lounge
Afriend’s networking event found me at The Daly Round Indoor Golf and Lounge midweek, just as folks were leaving work. A first-time visitor, I asked others about the establishment; a fun place to relax, watch the game, practice your swing, and meet friends, so they said. A friendly bartender called out a greeting while deftly offering a selection of spirits, craft beers, and cocktails to clients seated around the bar and around the room. My Cuba Libre was on point. Comfortable seating for conversation and tables for those perusing menus and others that checked out the Astros on multiple screens filled the room. Truffle Pretzel Bites and Cajun Crunch Egg Rolls; Handhelds of short rib and brisket blended beef with Bourbon bacon jam and shoestring potatoes tempted the tastebuds. Talk is, the oven fired flatbread pizzas are favorites among the golfers. The indoor golf simulators located in bays in the next room were filled with golfers and others that aspired to be. Bring your own clubs, or rent some. It’s 21 and over after 9 pm. Oh, and Bottomless Mimosas are offered for $12 a person every Saturday and Sunday. I’d say The Daly Round measures up to the hype.
The Daily Round Indoor Golf & Lounge 11734 Barker Cypress Road • Suite 116 Cypress Tx 77433 (346) 462-7043
Days/Hours of Operation:
Sunday-Thursday: 11am-10pm
Friday-Saturday 11am-Midnight
Payal Mandewalkar
Cypress Influencer and Fashion Blogger Realizes Her Bollywood Dreams of Glitz and Glamour
By Patricia Hudson
“Fashion is an individual’s statement of self-expression. What one wears should make them feel powerful, confident and beautiful in their own skin”
- Payal Mandewalkar, Times-Bulletin
Payal Mandewalkar was born in Maharashtra, India and was raised in Mumbai. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an engineer, but also of walking a fashion runway. Her aspirations included working for one of the most successful companies in the USA. In 2003, Payal married her husband Pavan in Hyderabad, India.
Determined to reach her childhood dreams, Payal studied Engineering in Electronics and Telecommunication at Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women’s University, SNDT, in Mumbai, India. Payal and Pavan moved to Texas in 2004 where she was awarded her Master’s Degree. “By profession, I am an IT Project Manager,” states Payal.
In a Times-Bulletin article, Payal divulged that she was always fascinated by the glitz and glamour industry of Bollywood and dreamed to walk the ramp one day, but an unrealistic image of a tall, thin, and “perfect” model body kept her childhood dream at bay. During the Covid Pandemic, she turned towards social media as an outlet for showcasing her styles and began to represent fashion as all-e ncompassing and inclusive, while breaking the stereotype definition of models.
Within the Indian community, Payal is held in high esteem. Sonal Tuljapurkar, Cypress entrepreneur (featured in
PinPointe Cypress Creek Lakes February/March 2024), comments, “Payal is one of the most hardworking people I know. She has achieved great success through determination and passion towards her work. At the same time, she hasn’t forgotten her roots, is kind-hearted, and is absolutely selfless while helping others.”
Payal’s social media reflects a staggering list of career and life engagements. We asked what she considers her motivation as an international influencer, world beauty pageant winner, engineer, model and fashion blogger.
“As an International Influencer and model, I am driven by a desire to inspire and make a positive impact on others through my journey and success I achieved after winning the title of Mrs. Asia World Elitec 2021 by helping many small to midsize (businesses), not only women-oriented, but also other local
businesses. I use my platforms to promote causes, help nonprofit charity organizations raise funds, support events through innovative marketing ideas and help build a successful environment around.”
In Feb 2023, Payal walked in New York Fashion Week for three renowned designers including Anjali Phougat Coutures at Designer Dream Collection, where she walked as a Brand Ambassador supporting sustainable fashio n. Mandewalkar collaborated with a DDC campaign for beauty in diversity project for Elle magazine, and was a Times 40 under 40 award winner.
As an Instagram Influencer/fashion blogger, Payal won the title of International Instagram Influencer of the Year in 20212022 and The Inspiring Woman Award. She is a Brand ambassador for many well-known brands like Express, Tanishq Usa, Diamonds Direct, Pixi beauty, Uoozee, C bazaar. Shein, and kota silk. Her accomplishments include acting in several short films where she won the award for Best Make Up and Costume at the Texas Kannada Short Film Festival.
Launched in July 2024, Payal is the CEO and founder of InVogue Talent Agency. She continues to inspire women as a mentor and pageant coach.
“Women empowerment is challenging the status quo of the community, loving and respecting yourself as a whole and having the liberty to do what she desires. It’s about leading by example and inspiring others to do their best and being able to live and strive for greatness while being vulnerable and ambivalent,” shares Mandewalkar.
If these accomplishments aren’t enough, Payal enjoys adding her determination and passion to the game of cricket.
Payal and her husband Pavan have two children. Parnika, 19, is a third-year engineering student at Rice University. Prayom, 9, is a 4th grade elementary school student. Culture plays an integral role in the lives of the Mandewalkar family. “Indian culture is vibrant and multifaceted, impacting daily life through its traditional food, daily prayers, the type of clothes, the different festivals we celebrate and we try to emphasize on concepts like respect for elders, hospitality, humility, and non-violence which are deeply ingrained in Indian culture and influence daily interactions and decisionmaking,” explains Payal. instagram.com/payalsfashionpalette
Cy-Fair Helping Hands’ 3rd Annual Back to School Bash an Astounding Success
Story by Patricia Hudson
Photos by Apollo Productions, Daniel Arizpe
On Saturday, August 3, 2024, Cy-Fair Helping Hands held one of its biggest and most memorable community events: its 3rd Annual Back to School Bash. Aimed at providing backpacks and school supplies for Cypress-Fairbanks ISD students in need, the event drew 1,448 attendees, with over 1,025 students happily receiving new ageappropriate backpacks filled with school supplies. To kick off the school year, the children and their families were invited to enjoy a carnival-like event, with games, entertainment, food, exhibits and fun provided by its community partners.
"The numbers from the B2SB are astounding," says Pat Hudson, Director of Community Outreach. "More than 120 individuals from community churches, businesses and organizations came together with approximately 60 volunteers to make this happen. We are ecstatic to share that of those numbers, 11 Cy-Fair churches were represented! As our new Emmott Road location is not ideal for an event of this size, our good friends at Calvary Community Church graciously consented for us to use their church auditorium and parking lot. We are so grateful to Pastor Jeff McGee and his staff!
We wish to send a special thank you to all that helped to make this event memorable, including those that made a financial donation, provided school supplies and backpacks, donated and/or sized new and gently used clothing, set up, filled backpacks, helped with distribution, fed the guests, entertained and provided carnival game booths. A special thank you to H-E-B Cypress Market at Barker Cypress for a pallet of water, Christine Kalmbach, Realtor for the hot dogs, State Representative Penny Morales Shaw and Lulac# 4967 Greater Houston LULAC for the hot dog
buns, and Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey’s office for the donation of handwashing stations and portable toilets.”
Cy-Fair Helping Hands works closely with the Community Youth Services (CYS) workers that serve homeless and disadvantaged children within Cy-Fair ISD. On the Monday following the Bash, CFHH founder and Senior Homeless Services Director Jean Dreyer invited the CYS workers for breakfast and provided an overview of services available to CFISD students through CFHH programs. As they left, CYS workers loaded their cars (and a trailer) with 540 cloth and clear backpacks for the CFISD high school, middle and elementary campuses they serve. Olivia McElrath, Area Supervisor for Community Youth Services, made two subsequent trips to Cy-Fair Helping Hands, where volunteers loaded her vehicle with additional backpacks and supplies. Pantry clients were also able to pick up backpacks for their children for the two weeks following The Bash.
“Thanks to the generosity of our community businesses, churches, organizations, and individual supporters, we were able to donate an astounding 2,223 backpacks and school supplies for financially disadvantaged CFISD students,” exclaims Executive Director Janet Ryan. “It was heartwarming to see the immense smiles on the faces of the children as they excitedly grabbed their backpacks! That made it all worthwhile!”
Baby Moses Law Provides a Safe Alternative to Child Abandonment, Anonymity for the Parent
After the body of a newborn baby boy was found recently in a trash bin in northwest Harris County, a local news station ran a story about the ‘Baby Moses Law’ and how it works in Texas. This is a brief summary of the Baby Moses Law in Texas.
The Safe Haven Law in Texas, officially known as the "Texas Baby Moses Law," was enacted as a response to increasing cases of infant abandonment, sometimes resulting in the infant’s death. It was signed into law by Governor George W. Bush on June 3, 1999. This law provides a legal and safe alternative for parents who feel unable to care for their newborns, allowing them to relinquish custody without facing criminal charges.
Under the Texas Baby Moses Law, a parent can legally surrender their baby at designated Safe Haven locations, which include hospitals, police stations, fire stations, and emergency medical services (EMS) providers. The child must be no older than 60 days to qualify for this safe surrender. The law is designed to be as straightforward and non-threatening as possible to encourage parents to use it. No questions are asked of the parent, and they are not required to provide any identifying information. The anonymity of the parent is protected, and they are shielded from prosecution for abandonment, as long as the child shows no signs of abuse or neglect.
The process is simple: the parent hands the infant to an on-duty employee at a designated Safe Haven site. The employee is
required by law to take the child into custody and provide any necessary medical care. From there, the child is transferred to Child Protective Services (CPS), which takes steps to place the child in a safe and permanent home through foster care or adoption.
The Texas Baby Moses Law was one of the first of its kind in the United States and served as a model for similar legislation across the country.
It reflects a compassionate approach to addressing a complex issue, aiming to protect the lives of vulnerable infants while offering a safe, non-judgmental option for parents in crisis.
Despite its importance, many people are still unaware of the Safe Haven Law and the protections it offers. As community members, it is our responsibility to spread the word about this lifesaving law. By raising awareness of the Safe Haven Law, we can help prevent tragic outcomes and ensure that every infant has a chance for a safe and loving future.
If you or someone you know is in a situation where they feel unable to care for a newborn, remember that there is a safe and legal option available.
For more information, contact the Texas Baby Moses Hotline: 1-877-904-SAVE (1-877-904-7283).
HAPPENINGS Cypress
For more local events visit: www.bestofcyfair.com
And follow us on facebook: Pinpointe Magazines - Cypress
Shop 'til you Drop 2024 Marketplace
Saturday, September 24, 2024 • 9am-5pm 8877 Barker Cypress Rd. • Cypress, TX 77433
Cy-Fair Women's Club Annual Fundraiser. There are over 250 vendors. All proceeds go back to the community through scholarships to graduating seniors in the CFISD area and financial assistance to nonprofits in the community. cyfairwomensclub.org
St. Cuthbert School 40th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, September 24, 2024 • 10am-1pm 17020 West Rd. • Houston, TX 77095
Bring the kids! Train rides, music, games, silent auction, craft area and food trucks. Admission is free! www.stcuthbert.org
Cy-Fair Fire Fest
Saturday, October 5, 2024 • 10am-2pm Fire Station 11 • 18132 West Rd. • Cypress, TX
Join us for a fun-filled day for the family with live demonstrations, Kidz Zone, Smoke House, Local Vendors, Food Trucks, and more!
Fairfield Women’s Club Fundraising Garage Sale
Saturday October 5, 2024 • 7am-2pm
Over 100 homes participating in the sale. For a map of all homes involved in the sale visit fairfieldwomensclub.org.
Market at the Attic
Saturday, October 5, 2024
Angel's Attic Resale Store • 12930 Cypress N. Houston • Cypress, TX
Support area small businesses featuring arts & crafts, jewelry, yummy treats, and much more.
Jersey Village Brewfest
Saturday, October 5, 2024 • 6-9pm
DeLozier Park - Intersection of DeLozier and Rio Grande Presented by City of Jersey Village Parks and Recreation Parking at Champions Forest Church. Tickets $30 www.jerseyvillagetx.com/page/events.jvbrewfest
6th Annual A Taste of Cy-Fair
Saturday, October 5, 2024 • 5-8pm (4pm VIP Entry)
Lakeland Village Center • 10615 Fry Rd. • Cypress, TX 77433
Loads of food, wine, beer, music, a silent auction, and festivities! Proceeds will be donated to Cy-Hope to help local families and residents in need. Purchase tickets at: atasteofcyfair.com
Cy-Fest 2024
Saturday, October 5, 2024 • 10am-2pm
Lone Star College-CyFair • 9191 Barker Cypress Rd • Cypress, TX Cy-Fest, a free family-friendly community celebration for all ages, returns with a pumpkin patch, arts and crafts, book mobile, bounce houses food trucks & More! www.lonestar.edu/cy-fest
Fairfield Family Night out
Sunday, October 6, 2024 • 4-7pm
Fairfield Central Park • 15015 Heath Green Circle • Cypress, TX
Bounce Houses, Live DJ, Food Trucks, Face Painting, Games & More!
Bridgeland Community Fun Run/Walk for Heroes
Saturday, October 12, 2024 • 8am / Kid's 1K @ 9am
Bridgeland’s Festival Park • 16902 Bridgeland Landing • Cypress, TX
Supporting The Bridgeland Community Supports Veterans, Inc. Details and Registration: blrunforheroes2024.eventbrite.com
The Judy Dierker Holiday Market
Friday, October 18 & Saturday, October 19, 2024 • 9am-4pm
Foundry Church • 8350 Jones Rd. • Houston, TX 77065
For 22 years, we have been bringing together a variety of vendors, artisans, and makers to offer a unique and festive shopping experience. Not only will you find one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones, but you'll also be supporting a great cause.
Rotary Club of Cy-Fair Annual Veterans Day Golf Tournament
Thursday, November 7, 2024
Blackhorse Golf Club • 12205 Fry Rd. • Cypress, TX 77433
Benefitting PTSD Foundation of America & Camp Hope Register at: tinyurl.com/CyFair-Rotary-Golf2024 www.rotarycypressfairbanks.org
Veterans Day Celebration & Military Memorial Wall Dedication
Saturday, November 9, 2024 • 10am-Noon 12527 Cypress North Houston • Cypress, TX 77429
Join us to celebrate all those who served while we are dedicating our new Military Memorial Wall! Light refreshments will be served.
Cy-Fair Helping Hands Festival of Trees
Saturday, November 9, 2024 • 7-10pm
Lindsay Lakes • 16536 Mueschke Rd. • Cypress, TX
Dinner & Dessert, Cocktails& Mocktails Live Music, Bourbon Pull, Silent Auction & More! Visit www.cyfairhelpinghands.org/FOT2024/ for info on tables, sponsorships and tickets.
Cy-Fair Nutcracker Market
Saturday, November 23, 2024 • 9am-5pm
Berry Center • 8877 Barker Cypress Rd. • Cypress, TX 77433
Over 270 vendors offering everything from Women's and Children's Clothing, Home, Holiday and Garden Decor, Gourmet Food Items, Hand made and Fashion Jewelry, and so much more! $5 Cash Entry Fee at Door or purchase online. Children under 13 Free Entry. No Stroller allowed by Berry Center Policy during event until after 3pm. https://www.berrycenter.net/event-details/cyfair-nutcracker-market
TRAVeliNG SeNioR oF CypReSS TRipS & ACTiViTieS
September 12, 2024: Fall Pot-Luck & Bingo Bingo. Bring your favorite dish. We provide the drinks. Cards afterwards. We eat promptly at 11:00 to 12:20, Bingo, then cards. Lakeside Trails Clubhouse,16125 Country Fair Lane in Fairfield.
September 10, 2024: Mystery Trip Lunch on your own. Leaving from Fairfield Baptist Church 9:00 am. $25.00.
October 10. 2024: Scarecrow Festival & Autumn Fair. Free Trip. Lunch on your own. Leaving from Fairfield Baptist Church at 8:00 am.
November 12, 2024: Houston Botanical Garden Light Show Price TBD Lunch at Kelly Country Cooking-Dinner. Leaving Fairfield Baptist Church 4:00 pm
November 18-23, 2024: Branson Christmas Show Extravaganza, Branson, Missouri Admission to 5 Fabulous Shows, 8 meals: 5 breakfasts and 3 dinners: $895.
April 24-May 3, 2025: Shades of Ireland, 10 Days: 13 Meals: 8 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners with Optional 3-Nigh Lond Pre Tour Extension or Optional 3-Nigh Edinburg Post Tour Extension. Round Trip Air from Houston Intl, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges, Hotel Transfers. Double Occupancy: $3,999.
All trips leave from Fairfield Baptist Church. Please park facing the ditch and apartments. All trips must be paid for within five days of registering, or you will be removed from the list. For info, contact Jo Ann at pstlgrl@gmail.com or Jackie at jackie.devine@comcast.net.
By Allison Okuneye
When I think about the size of my purse over the years, it makes me laugh. There were the younger years where I had to have my entire makeup bag, 3 different body sprays, an entire hairbrush, basically the college girl equivalent of a Mary Poppins Bag. Then we move into the young mom years the bag stayed massive, but was now a diaper bag/purse. I had to remove MY “necessities” and restock with every baby i tem to be prepared for any and every possible situation. I still don’t understand how I was not WAY more buff between the weight of bags and babies, but I digress.
Now, in my older (but still younger) years I find myself eliminating the heavy baggage a little bit at a time. Literally and figuratively. Maybe with time you realize that the world doesn’t actually end if you don’t have multiple body sprays to choose from, or if you get caught in the rain and can’t fix your hair. Maybe 8 diapers for a trip to HEB was a little excessive. It didn’t feel that way at the time, and maybe it was totally necessary and I just haven’t been in that stage of life for a while. Different stages of life require different size purses. There are some seasons where you will feel prepared, with all of your tools, ready for any and ever y disaster. There may be another season where you don’t seem to
have anything that you need. Or you may feel like me in my current season, decluttering every area...and the purse is just the beginning. Filling the extra space (in our purse or life) with extra “things” really just weighs us down. I am ok with having a lighter, easier to manage purse. I can confidently say that in this stage of life, where the purse is lighter, the extra baggage has been removed, my shoulders feel better, the stress of being 100% prepared is no longer looming, and I can finally have space for something new.
IN CASE YOU WERE CURIOUS...
This is what Is currently In my purse.
• WALLET
• TRAVEL SIZE PERFUME (an-other.com FM/2018)
• LIPSTICK (Maybelline Super Stay Dancer)
• KEYS
• SUNNIES