Grateful, Thankful, Blessed: Community Leaders Reflect on 2020

ateful ankful

Blessed Community Leaders Reflect on 2020

As we enter this year’s holiday season of Thanksgiving, ourthoughts turn to the blessings we have received this year. Cy-Fair community leaders share their reflections, reminders that despite the pandemic, we have many things for which to be thankful.

Dr. Mark Henry, Ed.D. Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce

Superintendent Cy-Fair Independent School District

“Although 2020 has been a challenging year, I am thankful for my family. Since Cindy and I moved to Cy-Fair in 2011, we have gone from zero to seven grandchildren, and they all live in the Cy-Fair community – a real blessing. I am also thankful for my school family. Throughout this crisis, they have supported our students and families with love and care. I am truly blessed to have two wonderful families – home Leslie Martone IOM President

and school.”

“I am so thankful for this amazing community that I live in and I choose to raise my family in. We have amazing folks that live in Cy-Fair that really understand what giving back is all about. Hurricane Harvey and COVID has brought out the best in our community. We have seen businesses helping businesses and neighbor helping neighbor. Most of all I am thankful for my health and my beautiful family and friends. And last but not least, I am thankful for my faith! God is our provider, comforter and Father of all!”

Jean Dreyer Founder and Executive Director of Homeless Initiatives Cy-Fair Helping Hands

“As I look back over my life, I see that God is faithful to provide what is needed to those who love Him. I am forever grateful, thankful, and blessed that God provides what is necessary for us to continue His work through donations from individuals, businesses, organizations, and churches. How great is our God!”

Julie Hinaman Trustee, Cy-Fair Independent School District

“Like so many others, I am often overwhelmed by feelings of worry and despair during these challenging times. Let’s face it…it’s hard to find the silver lining in a global pandemic. However, I have found comfort and hope by reflecting on what brings me joy and on the many blessings in my life. I am thankful for my family, especially the evolving relationships I have with my daughters as they become young adults. I am grateful for the partnership of my husband as we learn together how to parent through these new experiences. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my community as a CFISD school board member as we focus on meeting the educational needs of all of the students in our community. I am blessed to be a part of two incredible organizations– the Cy-Fair Fire Department and Cy-Hope – that are near and dear to my heart. Looking outside ourselves and serving others can often bring a new perspective encouraging a thankful and grateful heart.” Cindy Boutwell Co-Owner, Boutwell Properties The Boutwell Team

“There are hidden blessings in every struggle we go through. Covid has shown the true grit and spirit of our Cypress Community. Thankful that we live in the amazing community of Cypress. Grateful for friendships and opportunities. Blessed to have my Mom, family and friends that inspire me to keep growing.”

Dr. Seelpa Keshvala President Lone Star College-CyFair

“In this season of Thanksgiving, we at Lone Star College-CyFair want you to know how grateful we are for you, the Cy-Fair community! You have supported us from the beginning -- starting in August 2000 when you voted overwhelmingly to approve an initiative to join the Lone Star College System (formerly NHMCCD). And since that time, you have partnered with us in so many ways to ensure we can provide the best possible educational experience for our students. We are so thankful for each of you, and we look forward to being your community college for years to come! Happy Thanksgiving!”

Daniel Arizpe Captain, Public Information Officer #1 Cy-Fair Fire Department

“We are thankful for our first responders and medics serving on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Everyday our crews put their own health and safety on the line, we thank them for their dedicated service to the Cy-Fair community.

We continue to persevere through this global pandemic and our crews stand ready to respond to any hazard that may threaten the Cy-Fair community.”

Cyndy Gusler Founder and Executive Director From the Vine Ministries

“From the Vine Ministries is SO THANKFUL for our peaceful and gorgeous safe haven to welcome and minister to our community. We are SO BLESSED to partner with local health groups and businesses to provide resources for those overwhelmed with various issues of life. We are SO GRATEFUL for the opportunity God has given us to encourage, mentor and love on our women and teens, building up strong foundations for family and faith!” Lynda Zelenka Executive Director Cy-Hope

“Grateful for HOPE beyond what is seen and for our community rallying in the midst of a pandemic and helping Cy-Hope to continue to make a difference in the lives of so many.

Thankful for support and encouragement from family, friends and work associates as we navigate uncharted territory. Being able to do life with each other and working for the better good for all.

Blessed to be a blessing — even when life is not always easy, we have the opportunity to show love and grace, then see something beautiful emerge from adversity and brokenness.”