S XA TE
KatyMagazine.com
June/July 2017
, F t a o F o d , i e I ss g i B ue! r u O ntest winner featuring thei r Detenti s is our cover co u B r e g r u on bur B s ’ e i ger Bern
Tantalizing
Tacos
Katy’s Hometown Favorites Local Freebies and Discounts
Hot & Spicy
Cajun Cravings
ToP Chefs of Katy
The Great
Chicken Challenge Signature
Salads
Best Kids’ Meals in Katy
YOUR NATURAL BEAUTY
We are Katy’s premier state-of-the-art surgery center offering advanced, minimally invasive cosmetic procedures on-site, and close to home to save you time and money.
COSMETIC SPECIALTIES
© 2015 Katy Magazine
MEDSPA SERVICES
GALLASPLASTICSURGERY.COM 21300 PROVINCIAL BLVD. KATY, TX 77450 281.646.1114
Senior Living That’s Close to Everything, But Far From Ordinary.
Opening Summer 2017
Carefree, maintenance-free retirement living is coming to the greater Katy area, near Westpark Tollway and Grand Parkway. Imagine all the conveniences of upscale restaurants, shops and medical care in the heart of Parkway Lakes just minutes from Cinco Ranch.
“You’re going to love The Delaney at Parkway Lakes!” You have a wide choice of private apartment styles for independent living at The Delaney at Parkway Lakes. There’s also assisted living and memory care offered in the on-site neighborhoods of Hamlets at The Delaney.
Ask about our Founders Club!
Available for a limited time, membership offers many perks and financial advantages.
Call (877) 730-3559 or visit our Information Center:
22167 Westheimer Parkway, Suite 145 Katy, TX 77450
TheDelaneyatParkwayLakes.com | 21700 Bellaire Blvd. | Richmond, Texas 77407
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
Tanya Erickson
Katrina Katsarelis
Matt Katsarelis Publisher
Daneen Rivera
Production & Operations Director
Lindsey Fojtik
Kirsten Cornell
Christen Wilson
Rebecca George
Carmen Valderrama
Steffany Rivera
Katie Jozwiak Marketing & Project Specialist
Accounting Manager
Nayra Soriano
Priscilla Garcia
Casey Cockerham
Tiffanee Cook
Kennan Buckner
Meagan Clanahan
Publisher/Editor-In-Chief/ Creative Director
Graphic Designer
Customer Success Specialist
Graphic Designer
Senior Advertising Consultant
Distribution Specialist
Customer Success Specialist
Graphic Design Manager
Account Specialist
Community Relations/ Distribution Specialist
Lead Associate Editor
Freelance Writer
Editorial Coordinator
Tammi Michal
Freelance Writer
Ashley Lancaster
Editorial Coordinator/ Digital Editor
Liz Grote
Senior Administrative Assistant
Gail Collins
Freelance Writer
NOT PICTURED Wendy Clark, Myra Nwoke, Tassie Hewitt, and Lacey Wulf
Tonya Ellis
Freelance Writer
Amy Katsarelis
Crystal Rawls
Freelance Writer
Freelance Writer
Candace Cook
Reinaldo Medina
Freelance Photographer Freelance Photographer
Anetrius Wallace
Freelance Photographer
If you would like information on becoming a Katy Magazine freelance writer or photographer, email editor@katymagazine.com.
A BOUT K AT Y M AGA ZINE
Since 2003, Katy Magazine has produced award-winning magazines specifically for the greater Katy Area. The company also publishes Katy Life Magazine and Katy Business Magazine. Their upscale community publications have won more than 100 national, regional, and state level awards including General Excellence, Best Cover Design, Best Layout, Best Ad Design, and many more. Also winners of the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce 2013 Business of the Year Award, TASB 2016 Media Honor Roll Award, and the American Cancer Society’s Excellence in Cancer Journalism, American Cancer Society Media Award. Winners of several Winner of Distinction Awards and a Pinnacle Award from the BBB Houston. The publishers, Katrina and Matt Katsarelis, have lived in Katy since 2000.
605A Park Grove Drive Katy, TX 77450 281-579-9840 editor@katymagazine.com KatyMagazine.com
TO A DV ERTISE Call 281-579-9840 for print, web, and social media advertising package info, or email sales@katymagazine.com. TO SUBMIT ITEMS We welcome emailed submissions to editor@katymagazine.com. Please do not send copyright protected materials. FOLLOW US Stay up-to-date on daily happenings by following us on social media.
© 2017 Katy Magazine™ All Rights Reserved. No part of our digital or printed magazine may be scanned or reproduced.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 5
Houston Methodist West Hospital Welcomes Dr. Muradov and Dr. Schroeder to the Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Team
Winfield Campbell, MD
Pedro Cosculluela, MD
D. Dean Dominy III, MD
Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
Foot & Ankle
Hand & Upper Extremity Orthopedic Surgery
Houston Methodist West Hospital 18400 Katy Frwy. Suite 200 Medical Office Building 1 Houston, TX 77094
Dr. Pavel I. Muradov is board-eligible in orthopedic surgery, specializing in hip and knee replacements, revisions of replacements, and peri-prosthetic fracture care. Dr. F. Alex Schroeder offers a conservative approach to treating knee and shoulder problems for patients of all ages. Together, these fellowship-trained physicians provide a wide range of orthopedic and sports medicine services to Katy, West Houston and the surrounding communities. They use the latest techniques and cutting-edge technology to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients.
Pavel I. Muradov, MD
F. Alex Schroeder, MD
Joint Replacement
Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 832.522.BONE (2663).
Christopher K. Smith, MD
B. Christoph Meyer, MD
P. Timothy Sprockel, MD
Adult & Pediatric Orthopedics, Joint Replacement
Orthopedic Spine Surgery
Primary Care Sports Medicine, Concussion Management
w
w Katrina Katsarelis | EDITOR’S NOTE
Katy Dining Advice Five things NOT to do at a Katy restaurant
As editor-in-chief of Katy Magazine, I am invited to new restaurants often and I admit I get to eat out more frequently than my waistline probably appreciates. I’ve had the pleasure of dining at many of the new places that have popped up in Katy, along with a lot of my usual favorite Katy standards. Here are five things I try to never do at a Katy restaurant.
1. Leave a bad tip. I know a woman who looks for any and every reason to dock the
server’s tip. “Oh too bad she didn’t refill my water again - that’s coming off her tip.” Don’t look for reasons to dodge the tip, instead be the kind of diner that communicates well and over tips hardworking servers.
2. Summon the manager. If you have an issue with the food or service, kindly let your server know first and give him a chance to fix it. Don’t automatically request a manager without first allowing the server to correct the problem. Most servers want to please you. 3. Be rude. Don’t just be kind to the server and hostess, but also try to be patient with that frazzled mom of twin
toddlers or the exuberant table of high schoolers at the next table. Remember, you are in a shared room and life happens. Try to lighten up, it will be better for your digestion.
4. Linger too long. If the restaurant is busy and you’re still sipping water and visiting long after your meal has ended, you’re being a stinker. Not only is someone waiting for that table, the server may need the income from turning that table over to new guests. Instead, go to the lobby or bar if you need more time to say goodbye. 5. Leave a big mess. Stuffing your napkins in your water glass, cleaning out your purse on the table, or letting your
child empty 50 sugar packets on the floor are definite no no’s. Instead, try to leave the table almost as nice as you found it. With just a few southern hospitality gestures like these, imagine how nice and friendly it will be for all of us Katy diners! After all, Katy is most definitely one of the friendliest places in the greater Houston area! Follow me:
Katrina Katsarelis, Editor-in-Chief & Publisher
Reinaldo Medina
Scottish salmon with blackened scallops available at Dekker's Mesquite Grill
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 9
CONTENTS
The Community & Family Magazine for the Katy Area KM
Katy Magazine™ | June/July 2017
S XA TE
KatyMagazine.com
June/July 2017
Big, Fat, Foodie Issue r u ! O r cover contest winner featuring their De tention r Bus is ou ’s Burge burger Bernie
ToP Chefs of Katy
Tantalizing
Tacos
Katy’s Hometown Favorites
The Great
Cajun Cravings
Editors' Picks • 28
Taco Checklist • 36
Top Chefs • 42
Best Kids' Meals • 48
Cajun Cravings • 52
See who made our favorite food list
A guide to the best taco joints in Katy
Chicken Challenge
Local Freebies and Discounts
Hot & Spicy
Dining Advice • 9
Editor's advice on what not to do at a restaurant
Signature
Salads
Best Kids’ Meals in Katy
FOOD COVER CONTEST
Congratulations to Bernie’s Burger Bus for winning our annual food cover photo contest featuring their Detention Burger
Signature Salads • 58 Katy’s most flavorful summer salads
Food Trucks • 76
Bringing food to a Katy street near you
Local chefs making a name for themselves
Chicken Challenge • 62 Discover top chicken dishes you can’t resist
Tastes of Katy • 78
Advertiser showcase of local flavorful options
We’ve unearthed some of the best kids' meal deals in town
Big Restaurant Guide • 66 Our super-duper list of local eateries
Kids Eat Free • 80
Katy’s best kids eat free and cheap deals
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
Bringing Louisiana flavor and spice to Katy
Katy’s Local Flavor • 72 Iconic hometown eateries known for friendly service
Foodie Quiz • 82
Discover your food style by taking our quiz
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 11
CONTENTS
The Community & Family Magazine for the Katy Area KM
96
Katy Magazine™ | June/July 2017
MUST READS
Free WiFi Guide • 50 Freebies & Discounts • 84 Summer Camp Guide • 86 Adventure Bucket List • 102 Meet Madison Paige • 108 Hitting the High Notes • 110
Dominique Dore’
Nicolas Machado
Connor Cerda
IN EVERY ISSUE
Staff Page • 5 Letters • 14 Katy Go! Contest • 17 Katy Events • 22 Katy Resource Guide • 150 Where to Find It • 152 Katy Coupons • 156 Advertiser Index • 160
86
Payton Miller
Linda Duraj
Amy Yang
EDUCATION
Kalke’s Chorus • 124 Forever Educators • 126 Katy ISD Accolades • 128 Teacher Confessions • 130 School Scoop • 132 School Notebook • 134
14 NEWS
Notes & News • 114 Good News • 120 Biz Chat • 148
Maddie McKowen
Lauren Robinson
Meet a few of Katy’s high-achieving teens who are making huge strides in life through academic achievement, community involvement, and extracurricular activities Fesolami Akinwande
print, web,
and socia
l media
ptember
azin e.co KatyMag
Katy Cuties • 18 Katy Gram • 94 Birth Announcements • 112 Katy ISD Graduates • 136
130 HEALTH
Family Counseling • 140 Health Bulletins • 142 Ask the Experts • 144 Doctors’ Showcase • 146
2015
TEX
through
m
00 per issue
AS
August/Se
120,0 Reaching
PHOTOS
Raheem Memon
l High Schoo Cinco Ranch Lieutenant Senior h Cougar Star Carmon Endlic
TEAMS & DRILL VIEW DANCE OOL PRE HIGH SCH EDULE LL SCH FOOTBA
SCHOOL SPIRIT TEEN COVER CONTEST
18
Seeking a student from the class of 2018 or 2019 to be our School Spirit Cover Star! Email your best “school spirit “ photo along with info about your school spirit to editor@katymagazine.com.
DEADLINE JULY 10, 2017
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
144
TO VIEW & SHARE KATY MAGAZINE’S DIGITAL EDITION, VISIT KATYMAGAZINE.COM
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 13
YOUR LETTERS Reader feedback, emails, and notes from our proud Katy community The Official Newcomer &
Resource Guide
2017
April 2017
TEX
KatyMagazin e.com Police officer and pageant queen Shannon Dresser
E’S
KATY MAGAZIN
TOP 100 WOMEN
XA A KATY MAGAZINE ™ PUBLICATI
“What an honor and a privilege to be on this list with such amazing women in this community. I love this community and the people that give back to selflessly impact those that live and work here.” - Tina Hatcher, Founder of Hope Impacts
PERFECT ADVERTISING
ON
LIVING Cinco Ranch
WORKING
LIFE PLAYING
LEARNING
Seluk family
Morton Ranch Mavericks
“Wow! What a blessing to be included on the Top 100 Women list with other amazing women. It is a joy to serve the Katy community with these leaders.” - Rebecca Fox, Katy ISD Board of Trustees
IRATIONAL, POWERFUL, INSP TE KATY WOMEN AND PASSIONA
Cane Island home
MKT Railroad Museum
l u’l Yo Spring Lake
L
e ov
x Te ty, Ka
as
Comeaux family
KATY RESIDENTS & RESOURCE GUIDE A Much Needed Resource
“Wow, this is a great magazine. I’m new to Katy and needed a resource like this!” - Tina Helpful Information
PROUD ADVERTISER
“I have advertised with Katy Magazine for years. It’s a truly professional company that I’m proud to be a part of.” - Cheryl Sage, British Private Prep School LOOKING FORWARD TO THE FUTURE
“Your business event was fantastic. We look forward to partnering with you on more events in the future.” - Nancy Provenzano, Streamsong Living
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS!
Share your ideas and feedback on social media or email editor@katymagazine.com. We love to hear from our readers. Your wonderful feedback means so much to the Katy Magazine team! We are proud to showcase all of the wonderful people and events in Katy. Keep those story ideas and letters coming. Write to us! Email editor@katymagazine.com or let us know through social media! - Katrina Katsarelis, Editor-in-Chief
14 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
TE
“What an honor it is to be listed beside all of these inspiring women! This is truly a list of incredible and powerful women in our community.” - Allison Stark, President and CEO of Katy Cares
KatyMagazine.com
AS
Katy, Texas Celebrating Life in
S
AMAZING WOMEN TESTIMONIALS
“I love this magazine because it has a lot of good information about services located near me. Keep up the awesomeness.” - Carlos Exploring the Community
“My husband and I moved to Katy about six months ago and we love it. Your magazine has been a great way for us to explore the wonderful community. Thank you!” - Alison Sharing Information
“Katy Life is such a great resource for new Katy people. Each time we have a new person at the office, either new to Katy or looking in Katy, I always pick up an issue and give it to them. They are overwhelmed with the amount of information.” - Vivian
Visit KatyMagazine.com for Katy jobs, events, news, and more.
JORGE MARQUIS, DDS
Voted Top Dentist for 2014 by H Magazine, 2014 Dentist of the Year International Dental Association
6037 N. Fry Road, Suite 162 Accepting new patients
katysedationdentist.com
Š2014 Katy Magazine
Sedation, Cosmetic & General Dentistry
281-656-2200
This summer, set your GPS to Splashway Waterpark & Campgrounds. Located just an hour and a half from central Houston, Splashway is the family getaway that has it all and then some. Experience everything from the adrenaline rush of Texas’ tallest headfirst mat racer waterslide to the chillaxto-the-max lazy river. Make a trip of it and check out our campground with over 50 family-friendly cabins and 130 RV hookups.
OPEN NOW! WATERPARK & CAMPGROUNDS
GET $5 OFF EACH TICKET ! USE PROMO CODE KATYMAG17 AT CHECKOUT SPLASHWAY WATERPARK AND CAMPGROUNDS 5211 MAIN ST, SHERIDAN, TX 77475
WWW.SPLASHWAY.COM
Reenabelle Photography
KATY CUTIES Katy Magazine’s top cuties
Annabelle Amy Marie Studio
March & Mortar Photography
Luke
Ali
Hendrix
McGowan Images
Efrain Gutierrez
Bailey
Evelyn
Asher
Karley
Brecklyn
Brady
Alyssa
Email editor@katymagazine.com. Please do not send photography protected by copyright.
18 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Visit KatyMagazine.com for Katy jobs, events, news, and more.
Mom, you need a break?
CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCH 2855 GREENHOUSE RD. HOUSTON, TX 77084 2814922689 TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS 9:00AM 2:00PM FOR AGES 2 5 YEARS OLD To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 19
Things to Remember: camera tissues (!) glasses
We let you focus on what really matters. C U S TO M L A S I K • C ATA R AC T S • R E F R AC T I V E L E N S E XC H A N G E
Marie Paugh Photography
CALENDAR
Langley enjoying a big slice of watermelon
22 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Visit KatyMagazine.com for Katy jobs, events, news, and more.
June 16
June 23
July 1
Maud Smith Marks Library | 1 - 3 p.m.
City of Katy Complex | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
MOVIE ON THE LAWN
FAMILY FILM FESTIVAL
Pull up a lawn chair and watch Dolphin Tale under the stars. Free and open to the public. Visit caneisland.com.
Watch a kid-approved Disney favorite, Cars, in a comfortable indoor setting. Popcorn will be provided.Visit hcpl.net.
June 17
June 24
No Label Brewing Co. | 7:30 - 10 a.m.
Willow Fork Park | 9 - 11 a.m.
Cane Island | 7 - 9 p.m.
1ST STREET 5K
GARDEN INSECTS IN KATY
The event starts and finishes at No Label Brewery and runs through the charming streets of downtown Katy. Strollers are welcome. Registration includes an eight-ounce souvenir glass and four tastings. Visit runintexas.com.
June 17
This free, family-friendly event will teach about the little critters you can find in your front yard and how they help you. Visit willowforkdrainagedistrict.com.
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch | 8 - 10 a.m. Car enthusiasts are welcome to stroll through LaCenterra and check out classic and exotic cars. Visit lacenterra.com.
June 17
Come out to the heart of historic downtown Katy and shop lots of local vendors with products ranging from colorful plants to beautiful antiques. Visit katymarketday.com.
June 17 - 18
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch | 4:30 - 9:30 p.m.
July 13
Hang out on the Amenity Village lawn with Hub and other Cane-Islanders with food, fun, and a performance from Kalila Atchley. Free and open to the public.Visit caneisland.com.
Meadowbrook Farms Golf Club | 10:30 a.m.
June 25
A sprint triathlon featuring a 300-meter pool swim, a 10-mile bike ride, and 3-mile run. The Houston Racing Triathlon Club will host a fun post-race party. Visit runsignup.com.
June 26
DAD’S DAY
KATY FIRE AND EMS GOLF TOURNAMENT
Hang out with your pops on Father’s Day with great specials and discounts. Visit tiltstudio.com.
The event will benefit Camp Hope and the PTSD Foundation. Email dustinjcarter1@yahoo.com.
Tilt Studio | All day
JULY FOURTH CELEBRATION
Cane Island | 6 - 9 p.m.
Mary Jo Peckham Park | 6:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Alief Baptist Church | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
July 4
June 24
JEFF & BREDE’S TRIATHLON
KATY MARKET DAY
The Katy Parks & Recreation Department and Katy Fire Department will host a fun day with lots of activities in downtown Historic Katy before the fireworks display at Katy Mills Mall starting at 8 p.m. Visit cityofkaty.com.
Join LaCenterra for their Independence Day celebration presented by Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus.Visit lacenterra.com.
LIVE MUSIC
HOUSTON RIDE-N-SHINE CAR SHOW
KATY FREEDOM CELEBRATION
Willow Fork Country Club | 9 a.m.
REMEMBRIN’ BENJAMIN GOLF TOURNAMENT
Community members can play a round of golf to remember Ben Bradford, raise awareness for aortic dissection, and benefit the John Ritter Research Program.Visit remben.org.
July 14
KATY SUMMER NIGHTS Katy City Park | 8 p.m.
The City of Katy invites families to come out and enjoy a family-friendly film under the stars. Visit cityofkaty.com.
Email upcoming events to editor@katymagazine.com. View even more events on KatyMagazine.com.
Katy Summer Tailgate
Katy Market Days
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
Brian H. Nguyen Photography
Please contact organizers to confirm dates, locations, and times as they are subject to change after our print deadline.
Ride-n-Shine Car Show in LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 23
Jasmin Chen Photography
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
Mondays with Mommy
Katy Market Days
WEEKLY EVENTS IN KATY, TEXAS July 15
LIVE MUSIC
MONDAYS
Typhoon Texas | 6 p.m.
HIKE IT BABY 9 - 10 A.M.
Have a little fun in the sun and watch the Junior Gordon Band while you hang out in the wave pool.Visit typhoontexas.com.
Cinco Ranch Beach Club Lake Families with children of all ages are welcome for walks in Katy
July 16
TUESDAYS
FLATLAND CENTURY BIKE RIDE Tompkins High School | 6:45 a.m.
BABY BOOT CAMP 9:30 - 10:30 A.M. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch Courtyard Fitness class for moms with new babies
Northwest Cycling Club invites cyclists to participate in 32, 42, 55, 62, and 100-mile routes. Lunch will be provided in the OTHS cafeteria from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Radios and headphones prohibited. Register at kfc.bike.
PRESCHOOL PLAYHOUSE 9:30 - 11 A.M.
Aug. 2
Chick-fil-A (Cinco Ranch location) Story time, crafts, and fun
Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q | 7 - 8 p.m.
FAMILY NIGHT 5:30 - 7:30 P.M.
KATY EAGLE FELLOWSHIP
Katy Eagle Scouts of all ages gather for networking, social fellowship, mentorship, and fun.Visit facebook.com/texaseagles.
Chick-fil-A (Cinco Ranch location) Fun, themed activities for families
Aug. 12
BINGO 7 P.M.
No Label Brewing Co. | 6 - 10 p.m.
Katy Elks Lodge Supports Katy ISD, veterans, and more
KATY SUMMER TAILGATE An end of summer bash with food, fun, and live music for Katy families. School supplies and monetary donations will benefit the Katy YMCA’s Operation Backpack. Search "Katy Summer Tailgate" on Facebook.
Katy Summer Tailgate
24 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
WEDNESDAYS
PRESCHOOL PLAYHOUSE 9:30 - 11 A.M. Chick-fil-A (Mason Rd. location) Story time, crafts, and fun
Katy City Park
Visit KatyMagazine.com for Katy jobs, events, news, and more.
FAMILY NIGHT 5:30 - 7:30 P.M. Chick-fil-A (Mason Rd. location) Fun, themed activities for families
THURSDAYS
BABY BOOT CAMP 9:30 - 10:30 A.M. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch Courtyard Fitness class for moms with new babies
LIVE MUSIC 10 P.M. - 1:30 A.M. Las Alamedas Mexican Restaurant LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch Music will be played for an after dinner stroll
FRIDAYS
FAMILY FILM FESTIVAL 1 P.M. Maud Smith Marks Library A family-friendly indoor film
SATURDAYS TAI CHI 8:30 A.M.
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch Central Green Park Relieve stress with a mind-body exercise
Katy Summer Tailgate
Flatland Century Bike Ride
Bridgeland Farmers Market
Katy City Park
MONTHLY EVENTS IN KATY, TEXAS Second-to-last Monday
First Saturday
DEFINE Body & Mind | 11 - 11:30 a.m.
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch Courtyard | 9 - 10 a.m.
MOM & BABY FITNESS CLASS
Focus on arms, legs, glutes, and abs while bonding with baby
MOVE IT! FREE DANCE FOR KIDS
Movin’ and groovin’ time for kids age 4 to 6 years
Second Sunday
First Tuesday
MONTESSORI MOMS OF KATY
Montessori Kids Universe | 9 - 10 a.m. Coffee, acoustic music, and a discussion forum
FARMERS MARKET AT BRIDGELAND
Bridgeland Activity Center | 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. Fresh produce and baked goods
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 25
YOUR GUIDE TO DELICIOUS FOOD AND DINING OPTIONS IN KATY, TEXAS
EDITORS' FOOD PICKS • 28 ULTIMATE TACO CHECKLIST • 36 KATY'S TOP CHEFS • 42 BEST KIDS' MEALS $8 • 48 FREE WIFI GUIDE • 50 CAJUN CRAVINGS • 52 SIGNATURE SALADS • 58 CHICKEN CHALLENGE • 62 RESTAURANT GUIDE • 66 LOCAL FLAVOR • 72 FOOD TRUCK FRENZY • 76 TASTES OF KATY• 78 KIDS EAT FREE • 80 Featuring the Sticky Toffee Pudding from Peli Peli in LaCenterra
KATY FOODIE QUIZ • 82
WARNING
DO NOT OPEN UNLESS YOU’RE REALLY, REALLY HUNGRY! To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 27
KATY FOODIES
Katy Magazine's Favorite
Food Picks
Hundreds of Katy restaurants competed for the top spots in our coveted Foodie Issue. Our editors culled through the mouthwatering submissions to bring you our 2017 Katy Magazine Food Picks. Written by Kirsten Cornell and Ashley Lancaster
Reinaldo Medina
CRAB CAKE TOWER
Dekker’s Mesquite Grill | 8506 Syms St. The crab cake tower is stacked with flavor. Starting with a crab cake, Dekker's adds pico de gallo, avocado, and onion strings, then drizzles the whole thing in balsamic vinaigrette.
28 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Visit KatyMagazine.com for Katy jobs, events, news, and more.
Huguenot Filet
HARVEST SALAD
Peli Peli | 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. A savory eight-ounce filet topped with a tangy combination of raspberry chipotle sauce, creamy blue cheese, and bacon.
Salata | Multiple Locations Romaine hearts and cabbage topped with green apples, grapes, dried cranberries, walnuts, feta cheese, and chicken in a pesto sauce.
Baked Goat Cheese
Local Table | 22756 Westheimer Pkwy. Start your meal off with a bang. The baked goat cheese appetizer is topped with a sweet marmalade and surrounded by toasted baguettes.
Tacos al Pastor
Blueberry Ricotta Pizza
Abuelo’s | 24600 Katy Fwy. Seasoned grilled chicken and spicy salsa offset by the subtle sweetness of grilled pineapple is found amongst corn tortillas.
Russo’s New York Pizzeria Multiple Locations New York-style pizza dough is topped with ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, caramelized onions, feta cheese, blueberries, and fresh thyme
Reinaldo Medina
Seafood Cobb Salad
Beef Broccoli
Agave Rio | 1138 FM 1463 Gulf shrimp, lump blue crab, blue crab claws, applewood bacon, provolone, egg, pickled sweet peppers, and avocado are highlighted by jalapeño cilantro ranch dressing.
FireHeart Photography
Peter Chang | 1315 W. Grand Pkwy. .S. Thinly sliced beef, fresh broccoli, and slivers of onion all mixed in a housemade sauce and served on a steaming hot pot.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 29
Beef Ribs
Filet Perry
Spring Creek Barbecue | 21000 Katy Fwy. Slow-baked, juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs. It’s pure, down-home perfection when you pair it with a side of pinto beans and a sweet tea.
Perry’s Steakhouse | 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Tender, juicy steak is topped with lump crab meat, drizzled in garlic butter with asparagus.
The Substitute
Onion Ring Tower
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen | 21150 Katy Fwy. Fresh onions are hand-battered and made when you order them, served with creamy ranch and Cajun dipping sauces, and delivered stacked to the sky.
Bernie’s Burger Bus 2643 Commercial Center Blvd. There is no “substitute” for this bad boy. A bleu cheese-infused patty, crispy bacon, beer-battered onion strips, and yummy mushrooms.
Espetada
Peli Peli | 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. This delicious Portuguese specialty is made from beef that is rubbed in garlic salt, skewered onto a bay leaf stick, and cooked over coals or wood chips.
Seared Sea Scallops
Sammy’s Steakhouse | 7035 W. Grand Pkwy. S. Delectable morsels of tender sea scallops seared and served over creamy mushroom risotto with melted leeks and topped with thinly sliced, finely cooked carrots.
30 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Grilled Mac + Chee
Tom + Chee | 21788 Katy Fwy. Mac n’ cheese smothered in Wisconsin cheddar, mozzarella, applewood smoked bacon, and crispy onions between white toast slices.
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 31
Reinaldo Medina
Shrimp and Grits
Gnocchi Puttanesca
Abuelo’s | 24600 Katy Fwy. Fresh corn tortillas are wrapped around seasoned shrimp and red bell pepper, then topped with a white cream sauce.
Oyster Nachos
FireHeart Photography
Shrimp Enchiladas
Reinaldo Medina
Sapore Ristorante | 6734 Westheimer Lakes N. Dr. Delicate pillows of gnocchi pasta tossed in a sauce created from fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, capers, kalamata olives, and anchovy.
Dekker’s Mesquite Grill | 8506 Syms St. Tender shrimp is sautéed with red and green bell peppers, mixed in a Cajun sauce, then served on top of poblano asiago grits.
Fish City Grill | 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Nacho ordinary appetizer. This tasty dish tops fried oysters with chipotle tartar sauce and fresh pico de gallo.
Chicken Salad Avocado Toast
Agave Rio | 1138 FM 1463 Creamy chicken salad layered on smashed avocado with lemon oil and sea salt served on nine grain whole wheat toast.
Dijon Chicken & Mushrooms
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen | 21150 Katy Fwy. This chicken dish gets a delightful twist when it’s topped with button mushrooms, coated in honey dijon sauce, and served over rice pilaf.
32 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Chicken Potstickers
Leafology Tea Lounge | Multiple Locations Pockets of pure deliciousness are stuffed with chicken, veggies, and spices then seared to crispy perfection.
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Reinaldo Medina
Cajun Catfish
TaD’s of Katy | 1425 FM 1463 Catfish marinated and served your way either grilled, blackened, or fried, then topped with their famous, homemade crawfish étouffée.
Chile Verde Burger
Old Chicago Pizza | 24515 Katy Fwy. A steak burger smothered with southwest chicken green chile and pepper jack cheese before it is topped with a roasted jalapeño pepper for a touch of heat.
Reinaldo Medina
New Zealand Lamb Chops Sammy’s Steakhouse | 7035 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
Pan-seared and seasoned to perfection, the chops are served with rosemary potatoes and creamed greens, and covered with a touch of peppercorn brandy.
Peli Peli Shrimp
Peli Peli | 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. The comfort of southern cooking meets South African cuisine. Scrumptious grilled shrimp served over a bed of long-grain rice, peas, and bell pepper.
Oysters Agave
Agave Rio | 1138 FM 1463 Bite-sized and just the right size for nibbling. Crispy and hearth-roasted blue point oysters, salsa verde, lump crab, and Mexican truffle.
Mediterranean Salmon
Ossobucco Di Capretto
Local Table | 22756 Westheimer Pkwy. Fresh and fun, this dish is served with a generous portion of grilled salmon, savory guacamole, basmati rice infused with feta and herbs, and seasonal market veggies.
Sapore Ristorante | 6734 Westheimer Lakes N. Dr. This traditional dish that originated in Milan consists of a slow-roasted veal shank served with carrots, onion, celery, and mushrooms over a bed of mushroom risotto.
Reinaldo Medina
Reinaldo Medina
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 33
Reinaldo Medina
Chateaubriand
Grilled Pork Chop
Perry’s Steakhouse | 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. The tenderloin filet is carved table-side and adorned with truffle merlot demiglace, Bearnaise, and peppercorn reduction sauces.
Dekker’s Mesquite Grill | 8506 Syms St. Mesquite grilled on the bone pork chop seasoned to perfection and served with smashed potatoes and green beans.
Sliced Brisket Sandwich
Rudy’s Bar-B-Q | 21799 Katy Fwy. Layers of tender brisket piled high on a soft bun is a fan favorite. Don’t forget to drown it in Rudy’s original sause or the sissy sause if you’re feeling less adventurous.
Brussels Sprout Super Salad Reinaldo Medina
Dish Society | 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. This superb mix of shaved Brussels, shredded kale, organic quinoa, dried cherries, golden raisins, shaved almonds, and Parmesan with house honey vinaigrette will leave you full and refreshed.
BBQ & Bacon Melt
Tom + Chee | 21788 Katy Fwy. The grilled American classic adds applewood smoked bacon, BBQ sauce, kettle chips, and sandwiches it between sour-white bread.
Reinaldo Medina
Chicken Chipotle Panini
Leafology Tea Lounge | Multiple Locations Their signature chipotle chicken is coated in melted pepper jack cheese, topped with lettuce and tomato, and complemented by a toasted panini.
Shrimp PoBoy
TaD’s of Katy | 1425 FM 1463 The toasted baguette has trouble containing all of the crispy fried shrimp with a Cajun flair in this tasty sandwich.
34 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 35
KATY FOODIES
Katy Magazine is bringing the flavor and turning up the heat with our guide to the best taco joints in town Written by Kennan Buckner and Kirsten Cornell | Select photography by Reinaldo Medina
You won’t find just any ordinary tacos on our list. Topping tortillas with ingredients like mango relish, fried chicken, habañero peppers, pineapple, or spicy avocado cream, these restaurants offer up some sizzling Mexican cuisine perfect for family night, date night, or girls’ night. Don’t forget while you’re chatting away enjoying complimentary chips and salsa, to slow down and save room for these tasty delicacies.
Piggylicious Tacos Piggy Pibil
36 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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Tilapia Tacos Abuelo’s
Tacos Trio El Asador Mexican Restaurant
TILAPIA TACOS
TACOS AL CARBON
Abuelo’s 24600 Katy Fwy. | abuelos.com
El Jarrito Mexican Restaurant 21724 Highland Knolls Dr. | eljarrito.com
If the flavor of Mexico is what you’re after, you’ll enjoy the tilapia tacos at Abuelo’s. Featuring fried tilapia, Napa cabbage, shaved carrot, mango relish, and cilantro topped with a honey lime dressing. All of their tacos are served in handmade flour tortillas. They also offer firecracker shrimp tacos with spicy shrimp in lieu of the tilapia.
A Katy landmark since 1998, El Jarrito is a family-owned business that’s been pleasing customers for years. Be sure to try their tacos al carbon, with your choice of beef, chicken, or shrimp served with rice, beans, fresh guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, and pico de gallo. Finish it off with some warm sopapillas.
TACOS TRIO
El Pollo Loco 390 S. Mason Rd. | elpolloloco.com
GRANDE AVOCADO TACO
El Asador Mexican Restaurant 3750 S. Mason Rd. | elasadormexicanrestaurant.com Proudly serving guests family recipes that are made fresh daily, El Asador offers Tex-Mex in a beautiful environment. The tacos trio features carnitas, beef fajitas, and chicken fajitas with jalapeños, onions, cilantro, and sliced avocado. Another must-try is the tacos de carnitas which features three tacos filled with savory, slowroasted pork and tomatillo sauce.
Known for their authentic fire-grilled chicken, El Pollo Loco appeals to fans with their grande avocado taco. Hand-sliced avocados, jack cheese, pico de gallo, cabbage, chicken, and cilantro dressing are tucked into artisan tortillas. Also be sure to sample the chicken taco al carbon made with corn tortillas, chopped citrus-marinated fire-grilled chicken, diced onion, and cilantro. Grab just one, or make it a meal and get three.
Tacos Al Carbon
El Jarrito Mexican Restaurant
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Chicken Avocado Tacos El Pollo Loco
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 37
Super Adrian Tacos
Tacos y Tortas Adrian
Vaquero Tacos
Saltgrass Steak House
VAQUERO TACOS
LENGUA TACOS
Los Balito’s Taco Shop 3200 S. Fry Rd. | losbalitostacoshop.com Los Balito’s call themselves the original California Burrito House and bring their fresh cuisine to Katy 24/7. Daring eaters can try the lengua (beef tongue) with cilantro and onion, or the tripa (small intestines of farm animals) served with pico de gallo and guacamole. If your palate isn’t up for the adventure, try their crispy beef taco and add a side of beans or rice.
Saltgrass Steak House 21855 Katy Fwy. | saltgrass.com Perfect for lunch or dinner, the vaquero tacos at Saltgrass Steak House bring the best beef in the Lone Star State to the taco, featuring slow-braised brisket, sriracha mayo, cilantro oil, and pico de gallo and served in warm corn tortillas. Pick a side such as the sweet potato fries, or upgrade to the spinach and kale salad to complete your meal.
SUPER ADRIAN TACOS
PIGGYLICIOUS TACOS
Tacos y Tortas Adrian Multiple locations | facebook.com/tacosadrian3
Piggy Pibil 4031 FM 1463 | piggypibil.com Featuring self-made chef Manuel Abascal’s creations, Piggy Pibil serves up foodie delights such as the piggylicious from its food truck kitchen. The name “pibil” is of Mayan origin and refers to the ancient method of cooking meat that’s been marinated in sour orange and achiote in banana leaves. The piggylicious is a corn tortilla filled with cochinita pibil, refried black beans, avocado, pickled onions, and habañero peppers.
At Tacos y Tortas Adrian, all taco plates come with five corn tortilla tacos, making it a stellar deal. Try their Adrian plate with seasoned beef steak tacos, or make it a super Adrian and get your tacos topped with sour cream, queso fresco, and avocado. Another fan favorite is the Al Pastor featuring seasoned pork and pineapple.
Panchitos Tacos Tony’s Mexican Restaurant
38 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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Trailer Park Tacos Torchy’s Tacos
STREET TACOS
Tony’s Mexican Restaurant 870 S. Mason Rd. | tonyskaty.com A Katy staple, Tony’s has been offering authentic Mexican food to Katyites for years. The tacos callejeros, or street tacos, are a fan favorite. Beef fajita or carnitas tacos are placed in double corn tortillas then topped with onions, cilantro, spicy jalapeño sauce, and avocado slices. You may want to grab some extra napkins when handling the panchitos tacos. Not only do they load up flour tortillas with hot-off-the-grill fajita meat and chopped jalapeños, it’s also smothered in chile con queso.
TRAILER PARK TACOS
Torchy’s Tacos 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. | torchystacos.com What began as a food trailer in Austin has taken the state by storm. Torchy’s Tacos offers what founder Michael Rypka calls “experiments” that have generated many happy customers. Take a bite of the trailer park taco made of fried chicken, green chilies, lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheese on a flour tortilla and you’ll understand why. Patrons can order it “trashy” by substituting the lettuce for queso.
GRILLED FISH TACOS
Uncle Julio’s 20526 Katy Fwy. | unclejulios.com Satisfy your taco cravings with Uncle Julio’s made-from-scratch Mexican cuisine. Their grilled fish tacos come with tilapia, shredded cabbage, carrots, pico de gallo, and spicy avocado cream inside two corn tortillas. Served with cilantro rice and spicy black beans. KM
KENNAN BUCKNER is a conservative republican who votes for the democrat street tacos from Torchy’s Tacos.
MORE TEMPTING TACOS
BULLRITOS 24441 Katy Fwy. | bullritos.com CHUY’S 21300 Katy Fwy. | chuys.com
LAS MAÑANITAS 803 S. Mason Rd. | lasmananitasmexicanrestaurant.com LOS CUCOS MEXICAN CAFE 5831Highway Blvd. | loscucos.com TAQUERIAS ARANDAS 233 S. Mason Rd. | taqueriasarandas.com YURIRIA TAQUERIA EXPRESS 5502 N. Fry Rd. | taqueriasyuriria.com
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 39
KATY FOODIES
Katy kitchens boast many gastronomic wizards who’ve honed their passions for flavor and flair to create success on a plate Written by Gail G. Collins | Select photography by Anetrius Wallace
Although these chefs display their talents by cooking food found around the world, they have all worked hard to get to where they are today. They show that perseverance and consistency can bring you to new heights and make goals a reality.
42 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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ERIC ALDIS Agave Rio
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“Katy is a great community for families.” - Eric Aldis
Reinaldo Medina
With five siblings, cooking was simply part of Chef Eric Aldis’ family chores. “I have a heart for cooking,” he says. The Taylor High School alum graduated from the Art Institute of Houston’s entrepreneurship program. To further his education, he worked for free at some of the best restaurants in town. His culinary career began at Four Seasons Hotel Houston and advanced to Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas and The Ritz-Carlton in New Orleans before returning to Houston at Midtown BBQ and Corner Table. In fact, Aldis opened three locations in three months in 2016 with a focus on Agave Rio Restaurant & Patio Oasis. The evolving menu combines American and South American-inspired dishes. Katy is home to Aldis with four children of his own, and he is teaching them to work, whether it’s running a nonalcoholic bar or turning those pots. He says, “Sitting down together is the best, and whatever meal we’re eating, it’s my favorite.”
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 43
CHRISTO BATSIOS
Sapore Ristorante Italiano
“I love that Katy is close to the big city with a hometown feel.”
It’s hardly surprising that Chef Christo Batsios would own and operate an Italian restaurant with his father Georgio. As a Greek-Italian immigrant, Georgio owned three restaurants in Michigan, where Batsios grew up. Generations before him had run restaurants, and at 4 years old, Batsios sat on a milk crate peeling potatoes and onions. After a culinary education and work in Italy and Greece, he joined HEB as a butcher and progressed with the company. His dreams soon turned to longing for a restaurant and Georgio emerged from retirement with Landry’s. An Italian brasserie with a struggling menu was found and infused with legacy recipes, like Pomodoro sauce and slow-roasted beets with lamb shanks. “I love to feed people, and every guest is coming to our home for dinner,” Batsios says. His goal is overachieving in flavor - sapore - with service and presentation of rustic dishes dressed in signature sauces. Getting up before dawn and prepping is a joy. The journey from his humble roots to technical cooking skills is satisfying, and new wife Cassie supports his passion.
- Christo Batsios
Reinaldo Medina
RAUL CARRILLO “I like that Katy has nice people with a laid back style.” - Raul Carrillo
44 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
The Cellar Door
This chef trekked from El Paso to Katy in search of the best job and life. Raul Carrillo finalized a culinary education at the Art Institute in 2004. Explaining his career shift, he says, “I liked cooking, and everyone liked the way I cooked.” His grandmother and mother appreciated the kitchen arts, and Carrillo still calls his mom for recipe checks. He is hard at work when everyone else is playing though - weekends, celebrations, and holidays - so he never cooks at home. “My wife says my food isn’t simple, and I use too many pans,” he jokes. The humble chef doesn’t seek glory, and is happy to know people relish the food and will return. Like most chefs, he delights in chatting with patrons and collects honest feedback to improve the menu. The interaction is a return to his Cooking Connection days at HEB. The Cellar Door needed a kitchen revamp, and Carrillo advanced to executive chef and turned it around. The family establishment showcases the wine, and Carrillo’s cuisine complements it wonderfully.
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PATIO! E H T N O
Steaks • Chops • Fresh Fish Restaurant & Patio Oasis
Wednesday
Wednesday - Friday
Thursday
Saturday - Sunday
Kids eat free w/adult entree
All you can eat Crab & Shrimp!
2 for $20 lunch special
at Agave Rio
All You Can Eat brunch buffet
Adult Area • Intimate Dining • Live Music • Catering Children’s Playground • Kids Eat Free • Brunch Buffet 1138 FM 1463, Katy, Texas 77494 | www.agaverio.com | 281.665.3337 @agave_rio
facebook.com/agaverio
PAUL FRIEDMAN Peli Peli
“Katy gets me back to my roots with a focus on family.”
Chef Paul Friedman was born into South Africa’s version of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, intricately linking him to the food industry. After family training and a trial by fire, Friedman owned his first restaurant at the age of 21, crafting the open kitchen idea. In 1978, he drove across America in a Volkswagen bus and arrived in Houston. Now, after 35 years invested professionally in a string of international accomplishments, he returned to his roots with the flavors of fruit and fire, many people know as Peri Peri. Combining hot and spicy with guava, passion fruit, papaya and mango, Friedman utilized the Mozambique term of Peli Peli to name his restaurant model. His series, From a Jew to the Stew, includes three cookbooks, and numerous awards crowd his 58th restaurant, including first place at Katy’s Sip n Stroll 2017. Still, Friedman’s four grown children make him most proud. The CEO Chef enjoys meeting diners table-side and says, “We’re creating a culture of happiness, taking care of guests and our staff.” That kindness will soon expand with a location in Austin and a winery in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
- Paul Friedman
SOLÉ LYNDS “It’s great that Katy has a multi-cultural experience of expats.” - Solé Lynds
Aromas Latin Cuisine & Wine Bar Chef Solé Lynds’ admiration for the service industry began while studying international business at university in the UK. She worked in cafés and revived a culinary passion. Her Venezuelan family was immersed in the dining trade, and she played restaurant games as a child. Through international job moves, she met her American husband in China, and they had a son. Lynds focused on wine and garnered a Wine and Spirit Education Trust certification to consult with restaurants in Australia, and then the U.S., to pair wine with food. Still, she yearned to combine her own food and wine angle, so she started cooking with a mission. Her restaurant was conceived through strong Latin and European influences in wine, alongside dishes that reflect the wine’s inherent qualities. Today, Lynds’ hands-on training presents a pretty plate, which she excitedly serves up in the inspired setting built through supportive family and friends. “I love creating amazing food to wow people,” she says. KM GAIL G. COLLINS believes that people’s stories best explain the world around us.
46 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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Or choose one of our 11 classic pizza recipes! PLUS! Wings, build your own salad, and cheesy bread! Brick oven delicious!
© 2017 Katy Magazine
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 47
KATY FOODIES
Dining out with kids can be a challenge if you’ve got a picky eater. We’ve come up with a list of Katy restaurants that offer delicious, kid-approved meals for a great price. Written by Ashley Lancaster
Fried Shrimp | $6
Lo Mein | $4.50
Kid's Burrito | $6
Seafood fans will get lightly-battered shrimp, a side of French fries or a fruit cup, and a drink.
A kid-friendly serving of plain lo mein noodles free of “yucky” stuff like meat and veggies.
Fettuccine Alfredo | $5
BBQ Meat Plate | $6
Start with a flour tortilla and refried beans, then add cheese, ground beef or chicken fajita at no charge, or beef fajita for $1.50. Served with rice and beans or French fries, and a drink.
Agave Rio Restaurant & Patio Oasis 1138 FM 1463 agaverio.com
Antonia’s Cucina Italiana 2001 Katy Mills Blvd. antoniaskaty.us Fettuccine pasta noodles tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce. It can be served plain or topped with grilled chicken for $1.50 more or grilled shrimp for $1.95.
48 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
China Inn Cafe 402 W. Grand Pkwy. chinainnkaty.com
Chuckwagon BBQ & Burgers 4031 FM 1463 chuckwagonbbqburgers.com Lil’ chuckers will get a kid-sized serving of barbecued sausage, brisket, or chicken. Meals come with the choice of their favorite side like mac 'n cheese or green beans and a drink.
El Asador Mexican Restaurant 3750 S. Mason Rd. elasadormexicanrestaurant.com
Crispy Taco | $6
Jimmy Changas Fresh Mex Fun 300 Westgreen Blvd. freshmexfun.com A crispety, crunchety taco shell filled with beef picadillo and grated cheese. Served with a side of refried beans and rice and includes a drink, soft serve ice cream, and access to Jimmy’s Jungle for kids 12 and under.
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Croissant Sandwich | $5
Catfish Meal | $5
Kid's Fajitas | $6
Fresh turkey or ham and cheddar cheese served on a flaky croissant bun and cut into slices for little hands. Served with fruit salad or juicy strawberries, and milk, organic apple juice, or a fountain drink.
One filet of catfish fried, grilled, or blackened and served with French fries and a drink.
A miniature portion of their famous fajitas. Choose either mesquite-grilled chicken or tender seasoned beef. Served with a side of rice, refried beans, kernel corn, and tortillas. KM
la Madeleine French Bakery & Cafe 23322 Mercantile Pkwy. lamadeleine.com
Shrimpkens | $7.50 Landry’s Seafood 22215 Katy Fwy. landrysseafood.com
If your kiddo has a hard time choosing what to eat, this meal is perfect! It comes with both fried shrimp and chicken tenders. Includes French fries and a drink.
Sirloin Steak | $8
LongHorn Steakhouse 20636 Katy Fwy. longhornsteakhouse.com A Six-ounce sirloin grilled just the way they want it. Served with seasonal fruit and choice of a side like seasoned fries, mashed sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, or fried okra.
Kid's Tikka Plate | $5 Masala Wok 19355 Katy Fwy. masalawok.com
Yummy grilled chicken, long-grain basmati rice, and a tikka masala sauce made with ginger and cinnamon.
Orleans Seafood Kitchen 20940 Katy Fwy. orleansseafoodkitchen.com
Greek Salad | $5
Uncle Julio’s 20526 Katy Fwy. unclejulios.com
Panera Bread Multiple Locations panerabread.com A pint-sized serving of fresh Romaine lettuce, feta cheese, olives, and onions tossed in Greek dressing and sprinkled with salt and pepper and served with one side.
Do you know of a great kid's meal in Katy?
Email editor@katymagazine.com
Hot Dog | $5.25
Sammy’s Sports Grill 22762 Westheimer Pkwy. 9550 Spring Green Blvd. sammyskids.com This American classic is a universal favorite for little ones. Each juicy hot dog is served with either French fries or a fruit cup.
Tiger Meal | $5
Snappy’s Cafe & Grill 5803 Highway Blvd. snappyskatytx.com The tiger meal comes with two large, crispy chicken tenders and homemade white gravy. Served with a side of French fries and a drink.
More Mouthwatering Kids’ Meals Mac & Cheese | $5 - Black Walnut Cafe Soup & Sandwich | $5 - Corner Bakery Cafe Nutella & Jelly Sandwich | $5 - Dish Society Chicken & Veggies | $5 - Fusion Wok Tenders N Tots | $5 - Growler USA Salmon Kabob | $4 - Zoës Kitchen
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 49
GUIDE
KATY MAGAZINE’S GUIDE TO
The guide for staying connected on-the-go Agave Rio
First Watch
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
Peter Chang
Baccailis Cafe
Freebirds
Leafology Tea Lounge
Multiple Locations leafologytealounge.com
Potbelly
21923 Katy Fwy. freebirds.com
Froothies
Local Table
Proud Pie
3111 N. Fry Rd. facebook.com/froothiestx
22756 Westheimer Pkwy. localtablehouston.com
Fuddruckers
Maud Marks Library
Sammy’s Sports Grill
Multiple Locations fuddruckers.com
1815 Westgreen Blvd. hcpl.net
Fusion 36 Degree
Mi Pueblito Restaurant
1138 FM 1463 agaverio.com 3950 N. Fry Rd. baccailiscafe.com
The Bagel Café
631 S. Mason Rd. thebagelcafe.net
Bahama Buck’s
Multiple Locations bahamabucks.com
BJ’s Restaurant
20536 Katy Fwy. bjsrestaurants.com
Black Walnut Cafe
23233 Cinco Ranch Blvd. blackwalnutcafe.com
The Cellar Door
829 S. Mason Rd. cellardoorkaty.com
Cinco Ranch Library 2620 Commercial Center Blvd. fortbend.lib.tx.us
Corner Bakery Cafe
19355 Katy Fwy. cornerbakerycafe.com
Creamistry
24515 Katy Fwy. creamistry.com
Dish Society
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. dishsociety.com
DoubleDave’s
1650 S. Mason Rd. doubledaves.com
First Cup Café
11525 S. Fry Rd. Fulshear yourfirstcupcafe.com
20220 Katy Fwy. firstwatch.com
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. lacenterra.com
3950 N. Fry Rd. fusion36degree.com
402 W. Grand Pkwy. mipueblitohouston.com
James Coney Island
Nestle Toll House Café
740 S. Mason Rd. jamesconeyisland.com
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. nestlecafe.com
Jax Burgers
Newk’s Eatery
20680 Westheimer Pkwy. jaxburgers.com
20802 Katy Fwy. newks.com
Katy Branch Library
O’ My Buns
5414 Franz Rd. hcpl.net
23701 Cinco Ranch Blvd. omybuns.com
Kim’s Tea House
Old Chicago Pizza
1315 W. Grand Pkwy. S. peterchangkaty.com 23701 Cinco Ranch Blvd. potbelly.com 3522 S. Mason Rd. proudpie.com Multiple Locations sammyssportsgrill andbar.com
Sertinos Cafe
25707 Westheimer Pkwy. sertinoskaty.com
Slim Chickens
23320 Mercantile Pkwy. slimchickens.com
Snappy’s Cafe & Grill 5803 Highway Blvd. snappyskatytx.com
Starbucks
Multiple Locations starbucks.com
1519 S. Mason Rd. kimsteahouse.com
24515 Katy Fwy. oldchicago.com
Sweet & Salty
Kingdom Bakery
Ooh La La
23920 Westheimer Pkwy. oohlalasweets.com
Texas Borders
3030 Falcon Landing Blvd. kingdom-bakery.com
Koldprezz
The Original Marini’s Empanada House
829 S. Mason Rd. koldprezz.com
Kosmos Coffee Shop
22765 Westheimer Pkwy. kosmoscoffee.org
Las Alamedas
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. lasalamedas.com
la Madeleine
3522 S. Mason Rd. theoriginalmarinisempanadahouse.com
Palio’s Pizza Café
1450 W. Grand Pkwy. S. paliospizza.us
Panera Bread
Multiple Locations panerabread.com
23322 Mercantile Pkwy. lamadeleine.com
50 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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22764 Westheimer Pkwy. Multiple Locations bordersbarandgrill katytx.com
Tom + Chee
21788 Katy Fwy. tomandchee.com
U-Swirl Frozen Yogurt 25621 Nelson Way u-swirl.com
Überrito Mexican Grill
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. uberrito.com
Whiskey Cake
23139 Grand Circle Blvd. whiskeycakekaty.com
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE Summer adventures are closer than you think. When it comes to fun, no one offers a summer experience like the YMCA. Our camps offer a variety of activities that include: field trips, ropes courses, archery, STEAM activities and much more! TWO LOCATIONS TO CHOOSE: CAMP CINCO | 15050 Cinco Park Rd., Katy, TX 77450, 713-392-5055 YMCA AT KATY MAIN STREET | 1350 Main Street, Katy, TX 77494, 281-665-1213
Register today at ymcahouston.org/summer-camp-adventures YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.
© 2017 Katy Magazine
SPACIOUS FLOORPLANS WITH 1, 2, & 3 BEDROOMS, TOP AMENITIES, AND UPGRADED INTERIORS
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NOW LEASING KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 51
Captain Crawfish
KATY FOODIES
Cajun
Cravings From crawfish to gumbo and everything in between, Cajun restaurants bring Louisiana flavor and spice to Katy Written by Meagan Clanahan and Kirsten Cornell
52 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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Babin’s Seafood House 21851 Katy Fwy. babinsseafood.com
Babin’s Seaf ood House’s crawf ish st uf fed av ocado
When you think fresh fish, you just can’t miss on the Babin’s menu. Updated daily with the chef ’s “catch of the day,” you can have it cooked your way and topped with everything from a traditional seafood stuffing to “Bienville”-style with an array of shrimp and mushrooms in a cheesy wine sauce, capped off with fried oysters. And if that wasn’t enough goodness, give their crawfish stuffed avocado a shot for an appetizer. Stuffed with crawfish, corn, bell peppers, and Jack cheese, fried, then topped with even more crawfish in a traditional sauce piquante, it isn’t any ordinary avocado! Babin’s also puts a Cajun twist on a Southern favorite with the fried green tomatoes Calcasieu: crispy and golden, smothered in savory lemon butter, and topped with sautéed crawfish tails, the appetizer is the best of both worlds! Continue the tradition and finish strong with the sinfully sweet king cake cheesecake.
BB’s Cafe’s jazzy shrimp trio
BB’s Cafe
406 W. Grand Pkwy. S. bbscafe.com BB's Cajun Cafe burst onto the Houston culinary scene in 2007 and soon found patrons wanted more than authentic offerings of po'boys, gumbo, and grillades. Since then, they have become not just another Cajun restaurant but the home of Tex-Orleans cooking, putting out the best of iconic New Orleans and incorporating some Texas love with a little twist on traditional, authentic New Orleans dishes. Don’t miss Maw Maw’s chicken and sausage gumbo or their midnight masterpiece, a roast beef debris po’boy, fully dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and their special BB house sauce (mayo blended with chipotle) for that Tex-Orleans fusion kick!
Captain Crawfish’s shr imp & chicken salad
Captain Crawfish 979 S. Mason Rd. captaincrawfishkaty.com
Captain Crawfish is a relatively new addition to the Katy Cajun scene, opening their brick-and-mortar location in October 2016. They take huge pride in being a mom-and-pop restaurant and specialize in ensuring their customers have a fantastic experience every single visit. Owner Jason Galvan fell in love with authentic Cajun seasoning and pours that love into every dish. They offer three different types of fabulous gumbos, a decadent crawfish étouffée, and we dare you to only have one helping of their pasta Mardi Gras! Bonus - drive through pickup is available.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 53
BB’s Cafe’s po llo bullets The Cravin’ Cajun
2323 N. Fry Rd. thecravincajun.comcastbiz.net Talk about a dream combo - Cajun meets Asian for an unforgettable plate. Not light on the spice, Cravin' Cajun takes their signature flavor very seriously. Word on the street is that you can’t pass up the Cravin’ fries, smothered in delicious crawfish, crabmeat, shrimp, and onion goodness. Ever tasted Cajun fried rice smothered in unbeatable crab sauce? Now’s your chance. Finally, take in their steamy crawfish, now in three mouthwatering flavors: classic Cajun, garlic butter, and the house special (lemon pepper, onion, garlic butter, and Cajun seasoning).
Fish P lace’s crawfish etouffee
Fish Place
6123 N. Fry Rd. fishplacehou.com Fish Place has been serving authentic Cajun and Creole dishes since 2005. Start your meal off with stuffed jalapeños, fried pickles, boudin balls, or stuffed crab balls. The deliciousness doesn’t stop there. Choose from catfish, redfish, tilapia, shrimp, or chicken hot off the grill. Keep your hands full with a classic po’boy: French bread topped with cheddar jack cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, pickles, and house-made remoulade sauce, all topped with your choice of fish, oysters, shrimp, or chicken. And while you’re there, don’t forget some of their house specialties like seafood pasta, the seafood sizzler, or crawfish étouffée.
Good Ole Boys
26403 Katy Fwy. goodoleboyscatering.com
Captain Crawfish’s shrimp po’boy
54 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
If you love a down home atmosphere, you don’t want to miss this hidden gem located conveniently off of IH-10. Good Ole Boys is all about fun and family with the feel of Louisiana. No frills and fancy here, just great Cajun food and plenty of adult beverages to wash it down. Wind down your week with their Friday night “All U Can Eat” Cajun catfish special, served with their special jalapeño and onion hushpuppies. Besides their extensive menu of all things Louisiana, including crawfish, crabs, boudin, gator bites, and po’boys, try their weekend breakfast selections with authentic beignets, cheesy grits with shrimp Creole, and their twist on chicken and waffles.
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BB’s Cafe’s midnight master piece
Kajun King Katy 3719 N. Fry Rd. kajunkingkaty.com
This restaurant is a family’s dream with weekly specials and “seafood sizzlers,” offering something for everyone. If you are looking for pure, authentic Cajun specialties like seafood gumbo, jambalaya, and every po’boy under the sun, then the King is your place. For lunch on the run, they offer specials chock-full of fried and blackened dishes including catfish, shrimp, boudin balls, and more. Prefer to eat at home? No problem, check out their extensive online order and pick-up system!
Orleans Seafood Kitchen
Orleans Seafood 's pecan-crusted tr out
20940 Katy Fwy. orleansseafoodkitchen.com
Since opening in 2008, Orleans owners Chance Comstock and Marcus Payavla have definitely made their mark among the Cajun culinary experts. Serving Louisiana delicacies such as expertly boiled crawfish, fried alligator, boudin balls, spicy crawfish étouffée, and bowls of delicious gumbo keep loyal customers clamoring for more. Don’t miss unique dishes like their pecan-crusted rainbow trout sautéed in a brown butter sauce and topped with shrimp and crabmeat. Or the salmon Orleans; grilled salmon with crawfish and pico de gallo topped generously with lemon garlic butter sauce.
TaD’s of Katy 1425 FM 1463 tadsofkaty.com
TaD’s grilled salmon
TaD's offers a casual inviting environment with down home cooking. Hailing from Eunice, LA they were born and raised to cook Cajun favorites. Try their world famous crawfish étouffée, sausage and chicken gumbo, or their boiled crawfish done the right way! Also on the menu is fresh shrimp and andouille sausage in a garlic cream sauce served over grits, or the Cajun pasta which pours cream sauce over linguini then includes your choice of grilled shrimp, chicken, or crawfish. Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez - Let the good times roll! KM
MEAGAN CLANAHAN is a Texas native with Cajun blood and taste buds. She loves exploring new restaurants with her family, including her husband and twin 6 year olds.
56 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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INFANTS ∙ TODDLERS ∙ PRESCHOOL • BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL ∙ SUMMER CAMP
We nurture ingenuity. Aspiring innovators rarely go from zero to life-changing on their own. They start early, in an environment that rewards their drive to create better ways to do things. They model themselves after teachers and visionaries who show them what changing the world looks like, one invention at a time. Kiddie Academy® Life Essentials® lets children imagine that anything is possible.
© 2016 Katy Magazine
Kiddie Academy ® of Grand Harbor in Katy 24404 Kingsland Boulevard Katy, TX 77494 281-665-8495 kiddieacademy.com/grand-harbor-in-katy
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Kiddie Academy ® of Katy-West 27613 Pine Mill Ranch Drive Katy, TX 77494 832-773-9002 kiddieacademy.com/katy-west
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 57
KATY FOODIES
Katy restaurants serve up savory salads to help keep you cool for the summer
Santa Fe salad at Black Walnut Cafe 58 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Written by Kennan Buckner
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Organic quinoa salad at Local Table
Salmon & strawberry salad at Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
Reinaldo Medina
Not many people want to have a heavy meal when it’s blazing hot outside, so why not settle for a salad packed with nutritious and delicious fruits, veggies, and protein? Check out these delicious options that’ll keep you feeling healthy and swimsuit ready.
ORGANIC QUINOA SALAD Local Table
LIVE MED SALAD Zoës Kitchen
Serving up fresh foods in a hip and kid-friendly environment, Local Table in Villagio Town Center has an organic quinoa salad with roasted zucchini, broccoli, red bell pepper, red onion, cauliflower, and arugula seasoned with lemon zest and a roasted garlic vinaigrette. Add shrimp, salmon, or a mixed kabob to keep your belly full.
Zoes offers some great healthy options and their live med salad is a dish you won’t want to miss. With thin ribbons of zucchini and squash, fresh spinach, farro, lupini beans, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and Parmesan cheese, all tossed with Calabrian pepper dressing, it will leave you satisfied without the guilt.
GRILLED MARKET SALAD Chick-fil-A
SALMON AND STRAWBERRY SALAD Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
Chick-fil-A’s grilled market salad comes with sliced grilled chicken served on a bed of chopped Romaine lettuce, baby greens, red cabbage, carrots, blue cheese, red and green apples, strawberries, and blueberries. The salad pairs well with their zesty apple cider vinaigrette or light balsamic vinaigrette, and harvest nut granola can be added for an extra crunch.
The salmon and strawberry salad at Cheddar’s adds blackened salmon, asiago cheese, tomatoes, and strawberries to a bed of spinach and mixed greens topped with candied pecans and their house-made strawberry vinaigrette.
CHICKEN FAJITA COBB Uncle Julio’s
Multiple Locations | bordersbarandgrillkatytx.com
22756 Westheimer Pkwy. | localtablehouston.com
Multiple Locations | cfakaty.com
20526 Katy Fwy.| unclejulios.com
Get a taste of Uncle Julio’s tasty chicken fajitas on this savory salad featuring mixed field greens, bacon, sliced avocado, roasted corn, tomatoes, black beans, queso fresco, and tortilla strips. It’s served with three pepper ranch dressing, or it can be paired with their honey Dijon vinaigrette or citrus vinaigrette.
2643 Commercial Center Blvd. | zoeskitchen.com
21150 Katy Fwy. | cheddars.com
SANTA FE SALAD Texas Borders Bar & Grill
Enjoy a homegrown feel and tasty daily specials at one of the family restaurant’s two Katy Area locations. Get a taste of New Mexico with their lightly fried or grilled chicken Santa Fe salad; a field of greens with bacon, fresh avocado, lettuce, red onions, tomatoes, cheese, and honey barbecue ranch dressing.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 59
GRILLED CHICKEN COBB SALAD TGI Fridays
THE LITIGATOR Black Walnut Cafe
Fresh chopped Romaine lettuce is crowned with sliced avocado, grape tomatoes, a sliced hard-boiled egg, hickorysmoked bacon, and crumbled bleu cheese with a grilled, allnatural chicken breast drizzled with balsamic glaze to bring in a sweet and tangy finish.
The new litigator salad isn’t just made for lawyers. With chunky chicken salad mixed with spicy walnuts, grapes, strawberries, and blueberries cradled between cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, arugula, and topped with lemon Otis dressing, you’ll be prepared to take on anything.
SEARED AHI TUNA SALAD Mama Fu’s Asian House
BLACK CHERRY SPINACH SALAD McAlister’s Deli
Featuring yellowfin tuna seared rare, sesame seeds, Asian slaw, spinach, wonton chips, ginger sesame vinaigrette, and citrus ponzu sauce, the seared ahi tuna salad is the perfect Asian comfort food. Mama Fu’s promises everyone in the family will enjoy their meal, customizable for spicy palates, or vegan and gluten-free eaters.
Add some sweetness to your day with this wholesome salad made up of fresh spinach, grilled chicken, balsamic red onions, dried cherries, candied pecans, and gorgonzola cheese all tossed in a black cherry vinaigrette.
BLACK AND BLEU Newk’s Eatery
19355 Katy Fwy. | cornerbakerycafe.com
5304 Bell Patna Dr. | tgifridays.com
Multiple Locations | mamafus.com
20802 Katy Fwy. | newks.com
Serving up fine flavors for your next family meal, Newk’s offers a flame-grilled sliced petite tenderloin steak served medium-rare with Arcadian mixed greens, gorgonzola cheese, pecans, sweet grape tomatoes, red onion, and creamy bleu cheese dressing. You can swap the steak for grilled chicken breast, salmon, or broiled shrimp if desired.
CHINESE CITRUS CASHEW SALAD WITH CHICKEN Panera Bread Multiple Locations | panerabread.com
Whether you’d like a whole or half serving, the Chinese citrus cashew salad packs a healthy punch with chicken raised without antibiotics, on top of Romaine lettuce, cucumbers, pineapple, and cilantro tossed with soy-miso lime dressing, roasted cashew pieces, and mandarin oranges.
23233 Cinco Ranch Blvd. | blackwalnutcafe.com
21768 Katy Fwy. | mcalistersdeli.com
CHOPPED SALAD Corner Bakery Cafe
If you want a good staple salad, you can’t go wrong with this chopped salad. All-natural chicken, applewood smoked bacon, avocado, bleu cheese, tomatoes, and green onions sit on a bed of iceberg and Romaine lettuce. The sweet and spicy house vinaigrette adds a little kick.
BIBB WITH PEARS SALAD Anthonie’s Market Grill
9108 FM 1489, Simonton | anthonies.com
This eatery might be new, but it already has a lot to offer. This particular salad combines bleu cheese, candied walnuts, dried blueberries, fresh chives, and bib lettuce. It’s tossed together in raspberry vinaigrette and diners have the choice to add grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or a seven-ounce New York Strip steak for an extra cost. KM
Pecan-crusted chicken salad at TGI Fridays
60 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Seared ahi tuna salad at Mama Fu’s Asian House
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We're at our best so you can be at yours. Our massage experience is second to none. In fact, if you don't love it, the next one is on us. So take some time for you and schedule a relaxing session today, because when your inner happiness shines through, it makes everything in life a little better.
Katy 281.394.7119 2643 Commercial Center Blvd, Ste. B340 LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch elementsmassage.com/katy Massage session includes time for consultation and dressing. Void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. Other restrictions may apply; see studio for details and information about The Elements Promise™.
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 61
KATY FOODIES You can bake
y t a K t a e r The G
it, grill it, sauté it, or smoke it. Let’s face it, chicken is one of the most versatile and delicious dishes out there. We combed the city to find some of the tastiest, most unique entrées in Katy. So here it is friends, our
challenge to you should
you choose to accept it: venture out and try all of these decadent
ain he m and t p u s icing favorite ices p s ld ho are We e with o new c s rs u cou enturo v d a
dishes.
Written by Kirsten Cornell
Bourbon Barrel Chicken at TGI Fridays
62 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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24600 Katy Fwy. | 1000degreespizza.com
Walk on the wild side with 1000 Degrees’ Tuscan chicken pizza. Shredded mozzarella, asiago, chicken, spinach, and marinated balsamic sun-dried tomatoes all piled onto a delicious crust browned to perfection in a brick oven. If you’re not afraid of a little tang, the buffalo chicken pizza combines buffalo sauce, shredded mozzarella, blue cheese chunks, and grilled chicken.
Jacob Howard
1000 DEGREES NEAPOLITAN PIZZA
APPLEBEE’S BAR & GRILL
19625 Restaurant Row, Houston | applebees.com If you’re looking for something refreshing, try the caprese mozzarella chicken. Your taste buds won’t know what hit them when you bite into grilled chicken breast delicately layered with fresh mozzarella, tomato, red onion, and basil with a balsamic glaze. Not to worry, you’ll get your carbs with a serving of their garlic mashed potatoes on the side.
Tuscan Chicken Pizza at 1000 Degrees
CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL 6501 S. Fry Rd. | carrabbas.com
When two Sicilian boys from Texas found their way to a kitchen, amazing dishes were created. The pollo Rosa Maria is no exception. Wood-grilled chicken is stuffed with fontina cheese, prosciutto, and mushrooms then topped with a basil lemon butter sauce that will have you salivating. They also have Italian favorites like Tuscangrilled chicken or Mama Mandola’s chicken Parmesan on the menu.
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE 18151 Katy Fwy., Houston | crackerbarrel.com
Contrary to popular belief, Cracker Barrel has more to offer than just hearty breakfast platters. Not one to just serve you a run-of-the-mill sandwich, their chicken BLT starts with your choice of grilled or fried chicken tenders, adds thick-sliced bacon, Colby cheese, mayo, lettuce, and tomato, then takes it all and slides it ever so nicely on top of seared sourdough bread. But if you can’t go without your scrambled eggs, order the Uncle Herschel’s Favorite and you can still have chicken tenders as your protein.
Pollo Rosa Maria at Carrabba’s Italian Grill
BJ’S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE 20536 Katy Fwy. | bjsrestaurants.com
Take a walk on the spicy side with BJ’s fire-roasted barbacoa chicken. Barbacoa-spiced, marinated chicken breast served over brown rice and black beans, then topped with feta cheese, cilantro, crema, and fire-roasted tomato salsa. It will definitely add some pep to your step! Also on the spicy side of life is the New Orleans jambalaya which combines blackened chicken breast, shrimp, chicken-andouille sausage, bell peppers, white onions, and tomatoes in a spicy sauce and serves the entire delicious concoction over rice pilaf.
Chicken BLT at Cracker Barrel To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 63
EPHESUS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 510 S. Mason Rd. | ephesusgrills.com
You’ll be met with a mix of tantalizing spices when you step through the door at Ephesus. Their baked platter of chargrilled, marinated chicken kebabs with yogurt will leave you drooling. Served with grilled tomato and green peppers on a bead of toasted bread, you won’t leave hungry either. For a slightly different flavor, you can also try the ground chicken kebab as well.
LA BALANCE CUISINE
20680 Westheimer Pkwy. | labalancecuisine.com
Chicken Kebabs at Ephesus Grill
Enjoy a taste of the French Riviera right here in Katy! Located in Cinco Ranch, La Balance offers Katyites a contemporary twist on classic favorites. One of their signature dishes is the poulet cordon bleu, which means a chef of the highest class, and is chicken stuffed with ham and delicate cheeses then lightly breaded before it is pan-fried. The mouthwatering dish is served with smoked potatoes, spinach, and a Parmesan Dijon sauce.
LEAFOLOGY TEA LOUNGE
9006 S. Fry Rd. | 27131 Cinco Ranch Blvd. leafologytealounge.com This trendy new hot spot serves an amazing array of teas and tasty treats to go with them. Order up a chicken chipotle panini which layers their signature chipotle chicken with pepper jack cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes all hot pressed in crisp bread. Not your style? The same delicious chicken is also served with cheese and red onion on flatbread. And you’ll never go wrong with an order of their chicken potstickers but we must warn you, they are addicting.
Fire Roasted Barbacoa Chicken at BJ’s Restaurant
LOS CUCOS
5305 Bell Patna Dr. | 5831 Highway Blvd. loscucos.com If you like your poultry to have a little sizzle, Los Cucos is the spot for you. When the cast iron hits the table, the flavorful tendrils will about knock you out of your chair. The pollo Ixtapa is chicken breast sautéed in wine with onions, jalapeños, garlic tomatoes, cilantro, and mushrooms, topped with Monterey Jack cheese. The flavorful dish is served with rice, borracho beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, and of course, homemade flour tortillas.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich at Tom + Chee 64 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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PETER CHANG
TGI FRIDAYS
If you’re in the market for fresh, authentic Chinese food, Peter Chang needs to be at the top of your list. All of their sauces are homemade and you can taste the difference with fresh vegetables, quality meat, and organic spices. One of their heart-breaker dishes, the Guilin chicken, is a stir fry entrée with snow peas, asparagus, leeks, and red bell peppers, all mixed in fresh garlic sauce. Keep climbing the spicy scale with the Szechuan kung pao. A numbing combination of chicken, asparagus, red bell pepper, and chili oil that’s topped with roasted peanuts.
Packed with flavor, the bourbon barrel chicken at Fridays tops the favorites list. Chicken breast seasoned with hickory-smoked sea salt is grilled over a bourbon-soaked plank (helping bring out the smoky vanilla sweetness), and then served alongside mashed potatoes and lemon-butter broccoli. Fridays also just released their southern fried chicken sandwich with battered chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, pickles, avocado, and Jack cheese layered on a soft bun with spicy mayo made from Tabasco chipotle pepper sauce.
SMASHBURGER
TOM + CHEE
There are lots of ways to eat a delicious piece of chicken, so why not on a bun? At Smashburger they use their “smashing” technique to deliver seasoned sandwiches accompanied by an array of flavorful sauces. A fan favorite is the truffle mushroom Swiss, which piles aged Swiss, sautéed cremini mushrooms, chicken, and a blend of truffle mayo on a fluffy egg-brushed bun. If you need something a little spicier, try the jalapeño baja smash. Grilled chicken, chipotle mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion, guacamole, jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese on a chipotle bun.
When you take a comfort food classic like grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup and combine them into an eatery, you end up with genius concepts like Tom + Chee. Nestled among their heartwarming creations is the chicken bacon ranch melt - or as they lovingly say - grilled cheese with stuff in it. Wisconsin cheddar cheese, hand-carved chicken breast, applewood smoked bacon, Roma tomatoes, mixed greens, and ranch dressing are pressed warmly between two pieces of sour-white bread. Where’s my napkin? KM
1315 W. Grand Pkwy. S. | peterchangkaty.com
5304 Bell Patna Dr. | tgifridays.com
21788 Katy Fwy. | tomandchee.com
Multiple Locations | smashburger.com
Oak Park
Oak Park Retirement Community If you want stress-free/maintenance-free retirement living, our apartments provide the features you desire. Designed exclusively for adults 55 and over, we offer the comforts and conveniences of modern living without the hassle of upkeep. A few amenities include: One Price- All Inclusive No Buy-In Fees/Month-to Month Rent
Concierge & Valet Services Utilities, Phone, Cable & WiFi
On-Site Theatre & Entertainment Fitness Center & Wellness Programs
Apartments are renting fast, call to schedule a tour or save your spot today: 281-616-8065
1921 South Mason Road
Katy, TX 77450
OakPark-Retirement.com
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 65
KATY FOODIES
Get ready, Katy! Put on your drawstring pants and bring your Texas-sized appetite because an influx of irresistible eateries are open for business. There are more choices for Katy foodies than ever before, with more delicious options on the horizon. Pick your favorites from our extensive list! Compiled by Amy Katsarelis
Symphony kabob at Perry’s Steakhouse
66 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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AMERICAN 9er’s Grill 23225 Kingsland Blvd. Agave Rio 1138 FM 1463 Applebee’s Bar & Grill 19625 Restaurant Row BJ’s Restaurant 20536 Katy Fwy. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen 21150 Katy Fwy. Chili’s 21865 Katy Fwy. 3130 S. Grand Pkwy. Clay’s Restaurant 17717 Clay Rd. Cowboy Chicken 20702 Katy Fwy. Cracker Barrel 18151 Katy Fwy. Dekker’s Mesquite Grill 8506 Syms St. Dish Society 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Fuddruckers 24033 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 25407 Bell Patna Dr. Local Table 22756 Westheimer Pkwy. Newk’s Eatery 20802 Katy Fwy. PDQ 23703 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Salt & Pepper Restaurant 811 Avenue D Sammy’s Sports Grill 22762 Westheimer Pkwy. 9630 Spring Green Blvd. Texas Borders Bar & Grill 20940 Katy Fwy. 26440 FM 1093
Texas Mesquite Grill 20095 Katy Fwy.
Little V Vietnamese Bistro 4031 FM 1463
Texas Roadhouse 20840 Katy Fwy.
Mama Fu’s Asian House 24600 Katy Fwy. 28818 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
Texas Tradition 5321 Highway Blvd. TGI Fridays 5304 Bell Patna Dr. Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar 23139 Grand Circle Blvd. Willie’s Grill & Icehouse 19905 Katy Fwy.
ASIAN
Masala Wok 19355 Katy Fwy. Nagoya Sushi 6645 S. Fry Rd. 20900 Katy Fwy. Pei Wei Asian Diner 1590 S. Mason Rd. 24926 FM 1093 Peter Chang 1315 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
Beijing Ranch 1251 Pin Oak Rd.
Pho 88 Vietnamese 3154 N. Fry Rd.
Bonchon 24437 Katy Fwy.
Shogun Japanese Grill & Sushi Bar 7417 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
Café Asian 532 S. Mason Rd.
Sushi Hana Fusion Cuisine 5610 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
Café East 2 935 S. Mason Rd.
Sushi Hana Japanese Kitchen 1638 S. Mason Rd.
Canton Chef 21953 Katy Fwy.
Thai Spice Asian Gourmet 1420 S. Mason Rd.
China Cottage 637 S. Mason Rd.
Tiger Noodle House 21977 Katy Fwy.
China Inn Café 402 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
Yen Teppanyaki & Steakhouse 6630 FM 1463
China Wall 23730 Westheimer Pkwy.
BARBEQUE
Grand Imperial 27131 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
Big Daddy’s BBQ 2002 N. Fry Rd.
HS Café 6191 Highway Blvd.
Chuckwagon BBQ & Burgers 4031 FM 1463
Hunan Garden 3010 N. Fry Rd.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 7850 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
Koby Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar 2211 N. Fry Rd.
Dozier’s Grocery & Market 8222 FM 359
Lee’s Cafe 22044 Westheimer Pkwy.
Hitters BBQ & Catering 3427 N. Fry Rd. Mama’s Texas Smokehouse 1111 N. Fry Rd.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 67
Kimberly Park
Chicken and biscuits at Dish Society
Rib plate at Dickey's Barbecue Pit
Midway Barbeque 6025 Highway Blvd.
Red Robin 23318 Mercantile Pkwy.
Nonmacher’s Bar-B-Que 606 S. Mason Rd.
Smashburger 6645 S. Fry Rd. 25705 Katy Fwy.
Red River Barbecue 1711 S. Mason Rd. Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q 21799 Katy Fwy. Spring Creek Barbeque 21000 Katy Fwy.
BURGERS
Willy Burger 6191 Highway Blvd.
CAFÉS Baccailis Cafe 3950 N. Fry Rd. The Bagel Café 631 S. Mason Rd.
Bernie’s Burger Bus 2643 Commercial Center Blvd.
Black Walnut Cafe 23233 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
Elevation Burger 6825 S. Fry Rd.
Corner Bakery Cafe 19355 Katy Fwy.
Five Guys Burgers & Fries 1150 N. Fry Rd.
Deli’s Café 2950 S. Mason Rd.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers 24433 Katy Fwy.
Denny’s 1579 Fry Rd. 2405 Tex Mati Dr. 6920 S. Fry Rd.
Jax Burgers, Fries, & Shakes 20680 Westheimer Pkwy. Joy Love Burgers 1801 N. Mason Rd. OMG! Burger 1230 N. Mason Rd.
68 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
IHOP 19989 Katy Fwy. 24515 Katy Fwy. Kay’s Tea Parlour 5617 2nd St.
Asian tuna salad at Black Walnut Cafe la Madeleine 23322 Mercantile Pkwy. Luby’s Cafeteria 485 S. Mason Rd. 24033 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Sertinos Cafe 25707 Westheimer Pkwy. Snappy’s Cafe & Grill 5803 Highway Blvd.
CAJUN BB’s Cafe 406 W. Grand Pkwy. S. Captain Crawfish 979 S. Mason Rd. The Cravin’ Cajun 2323 N. Fry Rd. Good Ole Boys 26403 Katy Fwy. Kajun King Katy 3719 N. Fry Rd. Orleans Seafood Kitchen 20940 Katy Fwy. TaD’s of Katy 1425 FM 1463
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 69
DELIS Firehouse Subs 20900 Katy Fwy. Jason’s Deli 21953 Katy Fwy. Jimmy John’s 1230 N. Mason Rd. 1270 N. Fry Rd. 24449 Katy Fwy. McAlister’s Deli 21768 Katy Fwy. Panera Bread 19502 Katy Fwy. 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 25546 Kingsland Blvd. Potbelly Sandwich Shop 19235 Katy Fwy. 23701 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Schlotzsky’s 502 S. Mason Rd. 25010 Franz Rd. 3111 Fry Rd.
ITALIAN & PIZZA 1000 Degrees Pizza 24600 Katy Fwy. Antonia’s Cucina Italiana 2001 Katy Mills Blvd.
Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom 24515 Katy Fwy. Olive Garden 21220 Katy Fwy. Palio’s Pizza Café 1450 W. Grand Pkwy S. Pane e Vino Trattoria 8945 S. Fry Rd. Pizza Bella 1306 Pin Oak Rd.
Cilantro’s Arepa Grill 2004 S. Mason Rd. La Olla 3616 N. Fry Rd. Mi Pueblito 402 W. Grand Pkwy. S. Nere Express 164 Applewhite Dr. Palma De Cera 2004 S. Mason Rd.
Rocco’s Italian Restaurant 966 S. Fry Rd.
Super Pollo Rico Latin Grill & Bar 1109 S. Mason Rd.
Rosa’s Pizza Ristorante 510 S. Mason Rd.
Tropical’s Restaurant 1803 N. Fry Rd.
Russo’s New York Pizzeria 1708 Spring Green Blvd. 20900 Katy Fwy. 24210 Westheimer Pkwy. Sapore Ristorante Italiano 6734 Westheimer Lakes N. Dr.
LATIN Alegria Brazilian Grill 24449 Katy Fwy. Aromas Latin Cuisine & Wine Bar 402 W. Grand Pkwy S.
MEDITERRANEAN Alibabba Arabian Cuisine 9006 S. Fry Rd. Cedar’s Mediterranean Grill 1830 S. Mason Rd. Dimassi’s Mediterranean Buffet 22453 Katy Fwy. Ephesus Mediterranean Grill 510 S. Mason Rd. Kabob Korner 557 S. Mason Rd.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill 6501 S. Fry Rd.
El Canton Firewood Pizzeria 981 S. Mason Rd.
Pasta Rosa at Rosa’s Pizza
Fuzzy’s Pizza Katy 613 S. Mason Rd. Hasta La Pasta 1450 W. Grand Pkwy. S. Marco’s Pizza 23730 Westheimer Pkwy. 9006 S. Fry Rd. 1473 S. Mason Rd. Montanari Pasta Express 25757 Westheimer Pkwy.
70 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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Melinda Feild
Da Vinci Ristorante Italiano 6455 S. Fry. Rd.
White cheddar bacon stuffed filet at LongHorn Steakhouse Kunafa+ Cafe & Grill 5205 S. Mason Rd. Shish Kabob Cafe 19965 Katy Fwy. Verts Mediterranean Grill 19355 Katy Fwy. Zoës Kitchen 2643 Commercial Center Blvd.
MEXICAN Abuelo’s 24600 Katy Fwy. Alicia’s Mexican Grille 25725 Katy Fwy. Chuy’s 21300 Katy Fwy. El Asador 3750 S. Mason Rd. El Jarrito 21724 Highland Knolls Dr. El Rancho 6823 S. Fry Rd. 17754 Katy Fwy. Jimmy Changas 300 Westgreen Blvd. La Finca Mexican Restaurant 1420 S. Mason Rd. 6734 Westheimer Lakes N. Dr. 23930 Westheimer Pkwy. Las Alamedas 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Las Mańanitas 803 S. Mason Rd. Los Balito’s Taco Shop 3200 S. Fry Rd. Los Cucos 5305 Bell Patna Dr. 5831 Highway Blvd. Lupe Tortilla 703 W. Grand Pkwy. S. Ruthie’s Mexicana 1315 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
Tony’s Mexican Restaurant 870 S. Mason Rd.
STEAKHOUSES
Torchy’s Tacos 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
LongHorn Steakhouse 20636 Katy Fwy.
Überrito Mexican Grill 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
Outback Steakhouse 20455 Katy Fwy.
Victor’s Casa Garcia 1939 N. Fry Rd.
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
SEAFOOD Babin’s Seafood House 21851 Katy Fwy. Captain Tom’s Seafood & Oyster Bar 20525 Katy Fwy. Fish City Grill 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
Saltgrass Steak House 21855 Katy Fwy. Sammy’s Steakhouse 7035 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
WINGS BreWingZ 24445 Katy Fwy.
Golden Seafood 1235 S. Mason Rd.
Buffalo Wild Wings 19910 Park Row Dr. 5520 W. Grand Pkwy. S.
Landry’s Seafood 22215 Katy Fwy.
Wild Wing Cafe 20940 Katy Fwy.
Peli Peli 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
Wingstop 1830 S. Mason Rd. 1998 Katy Mills Blvd. 9550 Spring Green Blvd.
Red Lobster 25408 Bell Patna Rd.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 71
KATY FOODIES
Iconic Katy eateries showcase dishes that have kept patrons coming back for decades Written by Crystal Rawls
Midway Barbeque
Victor’s Casa Garcia Mexican Restaurant
While there is no denying the growing assortment of dining options in Katy, the streets are still dotted with hometown locations that offer a friendly face, warm plate, and rich history.
72 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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Midway Barbeque
Good Ole Boys
So many customers flocked to the barbeque counter at Midway Market that owner Herman Meyer had no choice but to expand. Manager Michelle Simpson insists the only way to fully share in the Katy experience is to dive in with the sweet-and-spicy barbecue sauce smothering the meltin-your-mouth, tender brisket or fall-off-the-bone ribs. The sausage, made in house, is cured to perfection in their smokehouse, along with the fresh pork, turkey, and ham.
One whiff of their award-winning crawfish will have you drooling at this casual restaurant. Order their famous crawfish boudain balls as an “appeteaser” or in a Texasstyle po’boy sandwich. Either way, you’ll need something to wash the spice down. But what keeps their customers coming back for more is the seafood gumbeaux served with hearty portions of shrimp, crab, and even oysters on request. Grab a seat, some jalapeño hushpuppies, and settle in for a great meal.
6025 Highway Blvd. katybbq.com
26403 Katy Fwy. goodoleboyscatering.com
Snappy’s Cafe & Grill 5803 Highway Blvd. snappyskatytx.com
Customers flock to Snappy’s for their signature breakfast platters. Their menu is chock-full of endless combinations of eggs, bacon or sausage, pancakes, waffles, and even ranchero eggs served with homemade chili. Owners Bobby Katsabas and Alex Tsounakas even added their unique Greek flair to the traditional omelet - four eggs filled with gyro and tomato, topped with cheese, tzatziki sauce, and served with a hot biscuit or pita bread. Not in the mood for breakfast? Katsabas recommends the pork chops grilled to perfection and served with a baked potato, vegetables, and a roll or cornbread.
Victor’s Casa Garcia
1939 Fry Rd. victorsmexicanrestaurant.com Owner Victor Garcia insists customers keep coming back for his original enchiladas and fajitas. Founded nearly 40 years ago, the restaurant’s menu offers Tex-Mex creations to satisfy even the most discerning palate - from fresh ceviche made with lime-cured, fresh fish and shrimp, to the slow smoked ribs covered in Casa Garcia’s signature barbecue sauce. The authentic parrillada, or Mexican barbecue, includes beef, chicken and pork fajitas, two quail, a rack of ribs, jalapeño sausage and grilled onions. For Garcia, the recipe for success is simple. He believes in good food, quality of service, and consistent flavors.
Sushi Hana Japanese Kitchen
The Bagel Café
Melinda Feild
Rosa’s Pizza
Hasta la Pasta
1450 W. Grand Pkwy S. hastalapasta.com Quality and consistency are what keep Katyites coming back to this casual Italian eatery. Founded more than 15 years ago, the family-owned and operated Hasta la Pasta is a community staple. Regular customers stop in for pizza
Thursdays, all-day happy hour Wednesdays, or to sample the Houston Rodeo’s award-winning cannelloni Pepe. If that doesn’t convince visitors to stop in, their signature Hasta la Pasta will. It’s the only place in town where you will find Gulf of Mexico shrimp resting on a spicy bed of jalapeño fettuccine and covered in a rich cilantropoblano cream sauce.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 73
their delicately fried calamari and flavorful shrimp fradiavolo keep customers returning for more.
The Bagel Café 631 S. Mason Rd. thebagelcafe.net
The Bagel Café has a quaint, hometown coffee shop vibe that invites visitors to stay a while, sip their coffee, and soak up the casual atmosphere. Sample their signature lox sandwich carefully layered with smoked salmon, whipped cream cheese, tomato, red onions, Snappy’s Cafe & Grill and capers on a toasted onion bagel. Or opt for the raspberry turkey sandwich with sliced turkey breast, Provolone cheese, sprouts, cucumbers, tomato, honey mustard, and tangy raspberry preserves on whole wheat bread.
Rosa’s Pizza
510 S. Mason Rd. rosaspizzeriatx.com It is a small restaurant that packs a flavorful punch. With one bite, the garlic and fresh pasta take patrons across the Atlantic to a country known for its rich food. While their perfectly cooked pizza boasts authentic Italian flavors such as prosciutto and ricotta cheese, Rosa’s Pizza isn’t just a pizza joint. House specialties such as
Sushi Hana
1638 S. Mason Rd. sushihanakaty.com Sushi Hana manager, Will Hong, believes the teriyaki dishes and hot seasoning plates keep patrons craving more from the renowned Japanese restaurant. The menu boasts hundreds of roll varieties, including the lobster deluxe roll, among Hong’s favorites. In fact, the sushi chef creates one-of-a-kind, large-portioned rolls depending on the most flavorful in-season fish available. No sushi/ sashimi combination or shape is off the table; chefinspired creations even include sushi donuts and sashimi cakes. KM CRYSTAL RAWLS is a contract specialist by day; a freelance writer and foodie by night.
When you choose Westrock You are sharing in our story of sustainability and hope for coffee farmers and their families. Your daily cup can create lasting impact. Learn more at WestrockCoffee.com. ®
AVAILABLE IN STORES
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 75
KATY FOODIES
Written by Tonya Ellis and Kirsten Cornell
You’ve seen them. Rumbling, brightly-colored trucks clad with logos beckoning foodies with their gourmet treats. Food trucks are taking the street-food game to a higher level and they have no intention of backing down any time soon. Growing Craze
Although selling food from a moving vehicle can be traced back in history over 100 years, the real craze began in 2008. Since then, they began appearing at festivals, fairs, special events, and even your neighborhood apartment complex. Chef Armando Garcia at Curbside Sliderz, started his food truck five years ago. “In Katy it’s going well for us,” Garcia says. “They accepted us with open arms.” Owner Leonardo Villarreal adds that he receives 10 to 15 phone calls a day and that the truck is usually booked about a month in advance. After Cousins Maine Lobster owner Neil Werner began his operation in January 2015, he soon realized he was going to have to increase his operation. “Within 24 months, we
expanded from one truck in Houston to eight trucks in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio due to overwhelming demand.” In Houston alone, they visit over 200 events per month, over 2,000 per year, and have been seen at local spots like LaCenterra, Bridgeland, Cane Island, and No Label Brewing Company.
Gourmet Grub
The unique offerings you can often find certainly give food trucks their own special appeal. Phi Nguyen, owner of The Waffle Bus, loves coming up with signature creations. For instance, the original fryder is their take on a traditional “slider,” which includes bite-sized chicken sandwiched between crispy seasoned waffle fries used as buns. For Good Dog Houston, they take an American classic and turn it on its head. The Curryous Frank combines curried scooter onion relish, cilantro chutney,
sweet potato crisps, sriracha ketchup, and roasted garlic aioli.
Driving Business
Scott R. Chapman, pastry chef and owner of Proud Pie, utilizes his food truck as a way to prospect in other markets. He sends a weekend food truck to Sugar Land to tantalize new customers with favorites like the state fair caramel apple and Ghirardelli chocolate silk pie. “The ability to be mobile allows us to touch people all over Houston and its suburbs,” Werner adds. “We can serve our award-winning menu at an office building for lunch then an apartment complex for dinner. Where we can go is limited only to distance and timing.” So the next time you’re faced with the formidable, “What should we eat?” head to the land of the food truck. They have plenty of options and where two or more are gathered, there foodies shall be, too. As Garcia says, “If the food is good, the people will come.” KM
KATY FOOD TRUCKS
Bernie’s Burger Bus Cousins Maine Lobster Curbside Sliderz PDQ Piggy Pibil Proud Pie The Waffle Bus
76 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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SPECIAL SECTION
ADVERTISEMENT
The Tastes of Katy, Texas Enjoy the flavorful food and drink options available at these area establishments El Asador Serves up the Best Fajitas in Katy
832-321-4954 | elasadormexicanrestaurant.com
El Asador Mexican Restaurant is a Katy favorite that specializes in fine Tex-Mex and offers over 10 delicious fajita platters. Serving traditional favorites such as chile relleno, flautas and chimichangas, to unique combinations like their deep fried avocado stuffed with carnitas, El Asador has a menu item for everyone. With Kids Eat Free deals on Mondays and Tuesdays and half-price margaritas all-day Monday-Wednesday, you’re sure to enjoy a delicious and affordable meal. Find your new favorite dish at El Asador!
A Burger That’s Above and Beyond Good Looking for good food that’s organic, sustainable, and fresh? With 100% organic, grass-fed, free-range beef burgers and fresh fries cooked in heart-healthy olive oil, Elevation Burger has elevated the typical burger joint standards so you can maintain yours. They offer 100% organic, grass-fed beef burgers, veggie and vegan burgers, chicken sandwiches, shakes and malts, fries, and more. Order online or take the whole family to Elevation Burger for guilt-free deliciousness! 281-396-4797 | elevationburger.com
Free Chick-fil-A Weekly Kids Events Round everyone up and head to Family Night from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at CFA Cinco Ranch or Wednesdays at CFA Mason Rd. They have face painting, arts and crafts, balloon animals, clowns, water safety tips, and fun for the whole family! They also offer Preschool Playhouse events where your kids will enjoy music, stories, and sparkle dough time. Preschool Playhouse meets from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. Tuesdays at CFA Cinco Ranch and Wednesdays at CFA Mason Rd. Join the fun today! 281-579-9460 | cfakaty.com
Leafology Tea Lounge’s Unique Specialties Leafology Tea Lounge serves a unique twist of traditional teas, smoothies, and snacks in a sophisticated setting where you can hang out as long as you like. They serve traditional teas, floral teas, fruit teas, crema teas, smoothies, slushies, fizzy juices, as well as affordable sandwiches and paninis! And don’t miss their classic signature snack - a dozen delicious potstickers for under $4! Come check out Leafology’s refreshing and healthy menu! 832-913-8707 | leafologytealounge.com
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ABOVE AND BEYOND GOOD™
KATY DEALS
Kids Eat
FREE
A Ka ty M Supe agazine r Fami Duper ly Gu ide
Here are some great Katy restaurants that offer several options for kids every day of the week. Remember, you must purchase an adult meal to take advantage of most of these offers.
MONDAY
Sapore Ristorante Italiano
Freebirds
El Asador Mexican Restaurant
Texas Roadhouse
IHOP
Elevation Burger
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
Multiple locations Kids 12 and under all day on Tues.
24600 Katy Fwy. Kids 10 under all day on Wed. with the purchase of a 10” pizza and regular drink.
Alicia’s Mexican Grille
25725 Katy Fwy. Kids 12 and under all day on Mon.
3750 S. Mason Rd. Kids 12 and under all day on Mon. and Tues. 6825 S. Fry Rd. Kids 12 and under receive a free burger Mon. through Wed.
Freebirds
21923 Katy Fwy. Kids 12 under all day Mon. through Wed.
IHOP
Multiple locations Kids 12 and under from 4 to 10 p.m. every day.
Kajun King Louisiana Style Restaurant
3719 N. Fry Rd. Kids 12 and under 4 to 11 p.m. Mon. and all day on Sun.
80 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
6734 Westheimer Lakes N. Dr. Kids 12 and under from 5 to 10 p.m. on Mon. 20804 Katy Fwy. Kids dressed as their favorite super hero eat free on Mon.
Applebee’s
Denny’s
Multiple locations Kids 10 and under from 4 to 10 p.m. Tues.
El Asador Mexican Restaurant
3750 S. Mason Rd. Kids 12 and under all day on Mon. and Tues.
Elevation Burger
6825 S. Fry Rd. Kids 12 and under receive a free burger Mon. through Wed.
21923 Katy Fwy. Kids 12 under all day Mon. through Wed. Multiple locations Kids 12 and under from 4 to 10 p.m. every day.
1000 Degrees Pizza Katy
Agave Rio
1138 FM 1463 Kids 12 and under from 5 to 9 p.m. on Wed.
Elevation Burger
6825 S. Fry Rd. Kids 12 and under receive a free burger Mon. through Wed.
Freebirds
21923 Katy Fwy. Kids 12 under all day Mon. through Wed.
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IHOP
Multiple locations Kids 12 and under from 4 to 10 p.m. every day.
FRIDAY
SUNDAY
Multiple locations Kids 12 and under from 4 to 10 p.m. every day.
1315 W. Grand Pkwy. S. Kids 12 and under all day on Sun.
IHOP
Luby’s Cafeteria
Multiple locations Kids 10 and under all day on Wed. and 11 a.m. to close on Sat. 20940 Katy Fwy. Kids 12 and under all day on Wed. with purchase of $6.49 or more. Dine-in only.
20900 Katy Fwy. Kids 12 and under eat free all day on Sun.
Multiple locations Kids 12 and under from 4 to 10 p.m. every day.
IHOP
Luby’s Cafeteria
Multiple locations Kids 10 and under all day on Wed. and 11 a.m. to close on Sat.
THURSDAY IHOP
Midway Barbeque
Multiple locations Kids 12 and under from 4 to 10 p.m. every day.
Firehouse Subs
SATURDAY IHOP
Orleans Seafood Kitchen
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
6025 Highway Blvd. Kids 12 and under from 5 to 8 p.m. on Sat.
Texas Borders Bar & Grill 20940 Katy Fwy. Kids 12 and under after 5 p.m on Thurs.
Multiple locations Kids 12 and from 4 to 10 p.m. every day.
Kajun King Louisiana Style Restaurant
3719 N. Fry Rd. Kids 12 and under 4 to 11 p.m. Mon. and all day on Sun.
Mama Fu’s Asian House
28818 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Kids 12 and under all day on Sun.
Know of more kids eat free deals? Tell us! Email editor@katymagazine.com.
Kids Eat CHEAP Full bellies under $5
Chick-fil-A
Multiple Locations A four-count nugget and fries meal is $3.49.
Chipotle
Multiple Locations All kids’ meals are $4.75 or less.
Cowboy Chicken
Snappy’s Cafe
James Coney Island
Tom + Chee
21702 Katy Fwy. All kids’ meals are $4.99. 740 S. Mason Rd. Kids eat for $.99 on Mon.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
5803 Highway Blvd. All kids’ meals are $4.95 or less. 21788 Katy Fwy. All kids’ meal are $3.99.
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 81
KATY FOODIES
What kind of
Foodie are you?
Take our quiz to find out where you fall on the Katy foodie scale Written by Kirsten Cornell
1
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. What are you eating?
2
Everyone is heading out to the newest food spot! You in?
3
When you hear tacos, your mind jumps to...
4
What appetizer would you bring to a dinner party?
A. B. C. D.
A. B. C. D.
A. B. C. D.
A. B. C. D.
Lox bagel, veggie omelet, or a frittata. Have you seen my French press? Bacon, eggs, hash browns, and biscuits. I like to keep it traditional. I rarely eat breakfast but if I do, a kale smoothie or black coffee works just fine. Boiled eggs, maybe some fruit or yogurt. Sometimes I get wild and have jam on toast.
Oh my gosh I’ve been wanting to try it! Already scoped out the menu! What do they have? I mean, it’s not one of those “weird” places, right? I’m really trying to eat “fresh” right now. Are there some veggie options? A little too “out there” for me, no thanks.
Oh my goodness I had these seared ahi tuna tacos the other day - delish. Sometimes I add queso, salsa, or avocado. Otherwise I’m pretty low-key. I prefer corn tortillas, maybe something with portobello or peach salsa. Why is everyone adding weird things to tacos? Meat and cheese.
Something Pinterest-worthy! Like crab-stuffed grilled artichokes. I’ll bring the guacamole. Everyone loves guac and chips. Roasted vegetable goat cheese quesadillas. Dip and chips I bought at the store on the way over.
82 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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5
When adding flavor to your food, what condiment do you choose?
6
When cooking, I generally use:
7
What kitchen item can you not live without?
8
When your hangry sets in, what do you reach for?
9
A. B. C. D.
A. B. C. D.
A. B. C. D.
A. B. C. D.
Something to spice things up; like sriracha or wasabi! Can someone just pass the ranch? It goes with everything. I use a lot of natural flavorings like honey or crushed cilantro. Salt and pepper. I like the basics.
I mix it up! Basil, herb-infused, avocado, or chili oils - I like options. Butter is a pan’s best friend. Even better if you use the meat’s juices. Coconut or grapeseed oil are my preferred options if I don’t steam. Do I need something specific? I think I have some Crisco.
Whatever the newest gadget is - I just have to try it. My crockpot. It does everything for me. Have you even seen these FreshWorks containers? It’s like magic. My spatula. I don’t get too crazy in there.
I’ve been known to grab sushi from the grocery deli. It’s not that weird. Popcorn, chips, pretzels - basically anything with a little salt on it. I almost always have a bag of almonds or dried fruit handy. It’s usually a scavenger hunt. Candy in my bag, leftovers from the fridge…
Time for dessert! What do you order? A. B. C. D.
Typically something I can’t pronounce, but it’s always worth it! If chocolate cake is on the menu, that’s my go-to. I rarely eat dessert, sometimes fresh berries or sorbet. Just give me a bowl of vanilla bean ice cream and a spoon.
Mostly A's - Exploratory Foodie You consider it one of your greatest challenges and joys in life to distinguish
different flavors and ingredients. “I’ll try it!” is one of your well-known phrases. Whether you’re the first to try the new hibachi-taco-fried chicken fusion joint or whipping up your own unique recipe at home, you’re always down for something offbeat. Restaurants to try: Peli Peli, Agave Rio, Peter Chang
Mostly B's - Comfort Foodie Mac and cheese or chicken fried steak are some of your dinner table staples. If it has gravy
or sauce, count you in. It doesn’t mean you won’t try a new dish once in a while if someone recommends it to you, but you prefer a home cooked-style meal. Food is more about the feeling you get when you’re eating it and the fact that it brings people together. Restaurants to try: Snappy’s, Texas Tradition, Hasta la Pasta
Mostly C's - Hipster Foodie Deconstructed is the new buzz word at your dinner table. You’re a regular at the local farmers
market and you happen to know that freekeh is a grain and not some new slang term on the streets. You can properly pronounce “quinoa” and silently judge those who can’t. You may have tried to grow your own herb garden at some point. Restaurants to try: Dish Society, Local Table, Elevation Burger
Mostly D's - Non-Foodie
Heading to the latest and greatest restaurant is not your thing. As far as food goes, it’s there for fuel and you don’t volunteer for anything that sounds too exciting, or too strange. Sure you like a good meal, but you prefer basic seasoning like salt, pepper, and maybe some onion or garlic if you feel like shaking things up. Pass the meat and potatoes, you’ll be just fine. Restaurants to try: Denny’s, Texas Borders, Rudy’s BBQ To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 83
KATY DEALS
BIRTHDAYS
Compiled by Ashley Lancaster
Celebrate your big day with these awesome birthday discounts and free services. Keep in mind that most offers require e-mail subscriptions, app downloads, or the purchase of a menu item. Applebee’s birthday entrée
Marco’s Pizza medium, one-topping pizza
Arby’s free small shake
Nothing Bundt Cakes Bundtlet cake
Auntie Anne’s birthday pretzel
Olive Garden appetizer or dessert with the purchase of two adult entrées
A&W root beer float Baskin Robbins 2.5-ounce ice cream scoop BJ’s Restaurants pizookie dessert Buffalo Wild Wings snack-size wings Chuck E. Cheese 100 prize tickets CiCi’s Pizza buffet with the purchase of an adult buffet and a regular drink Corner Bakery cookie or bakery sweet Denny’s Grand Slam breakfast Fuddrucker’s $5 off your check, and kids receive free burgers Great American Cookies slice of cookie cake with the purchase of a regular drink Grimaldi’s Pizzeria large, one-topping pizza IHOP stack of Rooty Tooty Fresh N Fruity pancakes James Coney Island cheese coney Jason’s Deli $5 discount on your check la Madeleine free pastry Landry’s Seafood House complimentary appetizer or dessert with the purchase of an entrée
Panera Bread any bakery item Rainforest Café appetizer with purchase of an entrée Red Lobster $5 off check with the purchase of two entrées RedBox Movie Rental Blu-Ray or DVD rental Rita’s Italian Ice regular Italian ice Schlotzky’s one free sandwich Smashburger hand-spun shake with the purchase of an entrée Smoothie King 20-ounce smoothie for $2.99 Starbucks hot or cold drink, bottled beverage, or food item Taco Cabana flauta plate that includes three chicken flautas, rice, beans, and two tortillas Texas Roadhouse appetizer or sidekick of ribs with the purchase of an entrée Which Wich small sandwich Wing Stop order of large fries Zaxby’s Nibbler sandwich Zoës Kitchen free entrée
Marble Slab Creamery small ice cream cup or cone
TEACHERS Teachers and district employees can score great discounts at these local businesses when they show a valid school I.D. Some may require participation in special programs. Ann Taylor Loft 15% off full-priced items every day
Michael’s 15% entire in-store purchase
Barnes & Noble 20% discount on qualifying purchases
Peter Chang Restaurant 10-50% off orders in January and August
Discount Car Care 10% off any brake, engine, auto repair, or tune-up service Leafology Tea Lounge 25% off a menu item
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Texas Roadhouse 10% off of a meal every Tuesday Verum Vi CrossFit Katy 10% off membership
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MILITARY/FIRST RESPONDERS Here are a few places in Katy that offer special discounts to active, reserve, retired, and veteran military or their families, as well as first responders. You must have a valid military I.D. to take advantage of most of these offers. 24 Hour Fitness 10% off membership A&W special discount at Katy location Aeropostale 20% discount off purchase price Ann Taylor Loft 15% off full-priced items AT&T 15% government discount AutoZone free shipping for online orders for any FPO or APO address Banana Republic 10% off in-store purchases on the first Monday of every month
Eddie Bauer 10 to 15% off in-store purchases at select locations El Pollo Loco 15% off of order Goodwill 30% discount every Friday Lowe’s Home Improvement 10% military discount Michael’s 15% off entire in-store purchase Peter Chang Restaurant 10 to 50% discounts for police officers in April and October, family members of military in May, and regular and volunteer firefighters and family in September
Bass Pro Shop store-specific discount on the 15th and 22nd Texas Roadhouse 30% off meal every day of every month Verum Vi CrossFit Katy police, firefighters, EMT, and Camp Bow Wow 10% off all boarding and day camps, 5% active military receive 15% off of membership, off of retail services veterans receive 10% off of membership Country Park Portraits complimentary portrait session and WellPet Center Veterinary Hospital 15% off of service 8 x 10 photo Discount Car Care 10% off auto repair, brakes, engine, and tune-up services
SENIOR CITIZENS Katy seniors can visit these businesses for special discounts on food, apparel, and more. You must be at least 50 years old to participate in most of these discounts. Applebee’s 10 to 15% off for ages 60 and up
El Pollo Loco 10% off for seniors over 60 years
AMC Theaters up to 30% off tickets for ages 55 and up
Enterprise Rent-A-Car 5% discount for AARP members
Burger King 10% off for ages 60 and up
Fuddrucker’s 10% off any senior platter
Carrabba’s Italian Grill AARP members get 15% off
IHOP special pricing on breakfast items for diners over 55
Cinemark Theaters up to 35% off ticket sales
Kohls 15% off every Wednesday for shoppers age 60 and up
Denny’s 15% discount to AARP members 55 and older Discount Car Care 10% off auto repair, brakes, engine, and tune-up services Dunkin’ Donuts AARP members get a free donut with the purchase of a large or extra-large coffee
Office Depot/Office Max AMAC members get 10% off office products Stein Mart 20% off every Monday for ages 55 and up
Please confirm these specials before you go, and email your favorite Katy, Texas freebies and discounts to editor@katymagazine.com.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 85
Katy Magazine’s Annual
SUMMER CAMP EXTRAVAGANZA 2017 We’ve got something for every kind of Katy kid! Take a look at these area summer camp offerings to find the perfect camp connection for your Katy kid. Regardless of what your child is interested in, there’s a camp available for making summer memories last a lifetime. Written by Kennan Buckner and Katy Magazine’s Editors
THE DANCER Becky’s Academy of Dance 2501 S. Mason Rd. 281-398-9226 beckysonline.com
Becky’s offers day camps for kids kindergarten through sixth grade, as well as dance and drill prep camp for junior high and high school students.
Connolly Dance Arts 22760 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-693-1232 connollydancearts.com
Dancers kindergarten through sixth grade can attend dance intensives. Dance and drill team prep is also offered for junior high and high school students.
Connolly Dance Arts
THE MUSICIAN The Conservatory of Music 23922 Cinco Village Center Blvd. 3719 N. Fry Rd. 832-437-4511 | 832-321-3382 theconservatoryofmusic.org
Guitar camps are held July 10 through14. Camp A is for ages 8 to 12 and is designed for the camper with no experience. Camp B is for ages 13 to 15. The camps are two hours daily, Monday through Friday. Camp guitar materials and camp T-shirt included in price. Call for details. 86 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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THE ARTIST A Painting Fiesta
6734 Westheimer Lakes N. 832-437-4359 paintingfiesta.com
Campers can choose to attend a full-day or a halfday, but either way they are going to have a great time getting their hands dirty and learning some great painting skills. Snacks and materials are included in the cost.
THE FIT KID ESN Health
A Painting Fiesta
Myra Nwoke
Healthy Kids Camp 2770 FM 1463 281-395-0827 esnhealth.com
Kids ages 8 to 12 will participate in daily fitness games, make fun crafts, and assist in preparing healthy snacks in the ESN Healthy Kitchen. Camp runs June 19 through June 22 from 12 to 3 p.m.
THE HORSE WHISPERER Circle Lake Ranch
1102 Circle Lake Dr. 281-395-4311 circlelakeranch.com
A horseback adventure awaits your animal loving campers ages 6 to 12 at Circle Lake Ranch’s horseback riding lesson camps. Learn riding and horse care. They have an fantastic indoor classroom, too! Camps are held 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. weekdays. The camps run through August. Register early.
Circle Lake Ranch
THE SCIENTIST Club SciKidz 700 S. Westgreen Blvd. CrossPoint Community Church 713-589-8958 houston.clubscikidz.com Outstanding week long science and technology day camps for first through eighth graders. Kids love their themed programs like space engineer, emergency medicine, programming, special effects, video game maker, grossology, chemistry concoctions, jurassic, quadcopter aerial robotics, and more.
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
Club SciKidz
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 87
THE VETERINARIAN
Citizens for Animal Protection 17555 Katy Fwy. 281-497-0591 cap4pets.org
Kids & Kritters camp is the place for future veterinarians in third through sixth grade. Campers will enjoy games and crafts as well as hands-on animal experiences. Enroll early!
THE BILINGUIST Spanish Learning Castle 5024 E. 5th St. 832-437-6479 spanishlearningcastle.com
Kids & Kritters Camp at CAP
A unique Spanish immersion summer camp with themes like safari adventure, dramatic play, and two weeks of under the sea adventure. Camps are offered through July 24 for ages 18 months to 7 years old from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with extended hours available.
THE WORLD TRAVELER Montessori Kids Universe 2004 S. Mason Rd. 713-344-1640 montessorikidskaty.com
Kids will be able to stamp their passports as they travel around the world this summer. Students kindergarten and up will “visit” several interesting countries exploring the culture through activities and hands-on projects and themed traveling fun.
THE CHURCH GOER Camp in the City Multiple Locations in Katy 877-474-6326 pinecove.com
Camp in the City is Pine Cove’s summer day camp programs that are offered at local churches. Kids entering first through sixth grade will enjoy bungee trampolines, water slides, and climbing walls. Camps held at Grace Fellowship UMC (July 10-14) and The Fellowship (August 7-11).
Vacation Bible School
Multiple Churches in Katy
Numerous churches are having fun, themed camps for school-age kids. These are usually held in the mornings for a few hours a week. Check with your local church. 88 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
THE GYMNAST Katy Kips Gymnastics Club 923 S. Mason Rd. 281-578-5477 katykips.com
Children ages 5 and up will enjoy jumping, bouncing, and tumbling at Katy Kips’ annual summer fun tumbling camp. All day classes are available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Weekly camps held all summer.
THE WATER LOVER Double T Hideout
Typhoon Texas 832-426-7071 typhoontexas.com/camps
Weekly day camp starts with a swim lesson followed by games and activities galore. Offering both full-day and half-day camps for school-age kids. Camps run through August 11, but space is limited so register early.
THE GIFTED KID Katy GT Academy
21020 Highland Knolls Dr. 281-646-7360 katygtacademy.org
Offering innovative camps like public speaking, young chefs, debate, chess, mental math, origami, critical writing, and many more, Katy GT Academy has something for every kind of advanced learner.
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281.395.4311 ★ CircleLakeRanch.com To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 89
THE ADVENTURER Myra Nwoke
British Private Prep School Multiple Locations in Katy britishprivateprepschool.com
Make memories at one of British Private Prep’s summer camps. Themes include lights, camera, action; science adventures; and lions, tigers, and bears! Camp is for students kindergarten through age 12. Includes a camp T-shirt and water carrier.
Kids 'R' Kids
Multiple Locations in Katy kidsrkidskaty.com
Kids R Kids offers a 10-week summer camp series, where kids explore their hidden talents, passions, and interests. Each boy and girl will experience art and cooking, engineering, community service, and everything in between! The full-day program is open to ages 5 through 12.
British Private Prep School
Myra Nwoke
Primrose Schools Multiple Locations in Katy primrosesummer.com
These fun-filled, age-appropriate themed camps for ages 2 through 12 include basketball, flag football, soccer, cheerleading, art, robotics, science, drama, fashion design, and more. Camps will be running all summer.
THE FIELD TRIPPER Primrose Schools of Katy
Discovery Schoolhouse 4900 Falcon Landing Blvd. 281-698-7234 discovery-schoolhouse.com
The Goddard School
Programs are offered for children Pre-K through 13 years old which can be attended either three or five days a week. Children will experience field trips, charitable events, arts and crafts, and so much more. Educational activities include learning a new language, participating in a spelling bee, visiting the public library, and reviewing math skills.
Foundations Academy 20817 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-599-1200 cinco.foundations-academy.com
5220 Ranch Point Dr. 281-392-1200 goddardschool.com
Get ready for some great field trips, STEAM activities, splash days, sports, and games galore. Also, fun mini-camps with cheer, dance, music, and cooking are available. Choose Preschool camp (ages 2 to 5) or Kids Club (K-5th grade.)
Kiddie Academy
Students will build a time machine and visit cavemen, dinosaurs, gladiators, outer space, and more. Plus field trips, science experiments, team challenges, cooking, and splash pad play will have your kids wanting to go back each day. Camps run through August 18 for kindergarten through sixth grade. 90 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
24025 Cinco Village Center Blvd. 281-392-1912
Multiple Locations in Katy kiddieacademy.com
CampVentures, for ages 2 to 12, features age-appropriate programs, plus field trips, special visitors, and more. Day campers will create, explore, construct, design, investigate, and invent!
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THE NATURE LOVER Monty Ballard YMCA 22807 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-392-5055 ymcahouston.org
Nestled in a woodsy park-like area, YMCA’s Camp Cinco offers exciting activities like archery, ropes courses, swimming, and more. It’s held at the 200acre Camp Cinco behind Creech Elementary and features sports fields, a basketball pavilion, misting stations, and a brand new playground. Camp is held from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for campers ages 6 to 15.
THE COUNTRY CLUBBER Camp Willow Fork
Monty Ballard YMCA
21055 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-579-3508 willowforktennisshop.com
Campers will receive training in tennis, golf, and soccer. Includes a tennis racket, T-shirt, snack, and lunch. There are eight week-long sessions for ages 6 to 12. Camps run through August 4.
Falcon Point Country Club
24503 Falcon Point Dr. 281-392-7888 clubcorp.com/clubs/the-club-at-falcon-point
The Club offers PGA Junior Golf half-day camps that run weekly through August 11. Two full-day camps will be held on June 27-30 and Aug. 8-11. Tennis camps are also offered. Call for details.
Golf Club at Cinco Ranch
Falcon Point Country Club
23030 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-395-7863 golfclubatcincoranch.com
Weekly half-day golf camps run through July 31. School-age kids will learn fundamentals of golf, as well as participate in friendly competitions, games, and more.
THE VOLLEYBALLER Katy Volleyball Academy Camp
2211 Porter Rd. 281-391-4121 katyvolleyball.com
Get ready for fall tryouts or just hone your volleyball skills with evening camps held four nights a week from 6 to 9 p.m. Various camps for fourth through 12th graders are held through August 10. Call for details.
Katy Volleyball Academy
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 91
Myra Nwoke
THE BASKETBALLER Stampede Basketball Camp Camps held at Taylor High School 832-865-8416
A camp for second through eighth graders to learn basketball techniques from top coaches in a fun, positive atmosphere. Camps are held June 5-8 and July 10-13.
THE FOOTBALL PRO Katy Youth Football
713-331-1907 katyyouthfootball.com
Katy Kips Gymnastics Club
Offering both conditioning camps and tackle camps for first through sixth graders. Camps are held July 11-14 and July 18-21 respectively. Camps are held in the late afternoon and evenings.
THE MARTIAL ARTIST Tiger Rock Martial Arts Taekwondo 625 S. Mason Rd. 281-829-9300 katytkd.com
5757 Katy-Gaston Rd. 281-202-3713 trmakatysouth.com
Tiger Rock Martial Arts
Offering martial arts trick camps where students learn flips, twists, kicks, and master the jump track. They also have a camp of champions, and a combat sword camp for juniors and teens (green belt and above). Led by skilled masters, camps run various weeks June through July. Call for details.
THE SOCCER STAR
Katy Tennis Academy
Camps held at Beckendorff JH or Seven Lakes HS 832-434-0205 katytennisacademy.com
Weekly camps cover areas like stroke technique, drills, singles and doubles, match play, serving, and more. Beginners, intermediate, and advanced players welcome. Ages 5 through 17. Camps run through August 11.
FFPS British Soccer Camp FFPS Soccer Complex George Bush Park 800-828-7529 ffps.org
Camp for ages 6 through 16 will be held July 10-14 and will cover dribbling, moves, passing, shooting, and more. Coaches use a positive approach and are British certified.
92 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
THE TENNIS PLAYER
UPDATED WEEKLY ALL SUMMER! Check out the our digital Summer Camp Guide! Search "Katy Summer Camp Guide" on Facebook.
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K AT Y Retirement Living Redefined
! When you give up home maintenance, and its woes... Start today. Schedule your visit, and get on your way! WatercrestKaty.com 200 S. Katy Fort Bend Rd., Katy, TX 77494 (832) 308-6729 www.WatercrestKaty.com
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 93
Katy Gram!
Tag us and you might get regrammed and published here! FOLLOW US
Katyites spotted on Instagram!
Filling up at Olive Garden
@KATYMAGAZINE
JAX burgers are the best!
A cool and healthy treat
Her love for burgers is strong
Catching up with friends
Good food with great friends
Frios Gourmet Pops in LaCenterra
Birthday dessert
There’s nothing better than a snow cone on a hot day
Lunch with girlfriends
Trying something new at Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar
Date night at Texas Roadhouse
94 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 95
PEOPLE
AMAZING These days, it takes so much more than straight A’s to be considered a top teen in Katy ISD. Meet the high-achieving young people who are making huge strides in life through academic achievement, community involvement, and extracurricular activities. Written by Ashley Lancaster | Select photography by Anetrius Wallace
Nicolas Machado
Dreaming Big at Stanford
Senior
GPA: 4.65 Kim Schaffer Photography
Nicolas Machado plays varsity basketball for Cinco Ranch High School, leads the Cougar Challenge anti-bullying program, and is a tutor for the Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society. He has served as class president since his sophomore year, is a member of the Katy ISD Student Round Table, and was chosen by the former superintendent Alton Frailey to speak at the State of the District Address in 2016. Outside of school, Machado tutors children at Neighborhood Kidz Club. He received acceptance letters into the chemical engineering programs at Stanford, Harvard, Yale, Cornell, Berkeley, MIT, USC, UCLA, UT, Texas A&M, and Georgia Tech, and has decided to attend Stanford University in the fall.
CRHS Leadership Award, National Hispanic Merit Scholar, and elected Attorney General at 2016 Texas Boys State
Dominique Dore’
AWARDS
“My passion resides in improving the lives of people, and I aspire to have a larger-scale impact on society by working to innovate alternative energy solutions at Stanford University.”
A Bright Future
Junior
Dominique Dore’ is the co-founder and co-president of The Bowl of Life student organization at Cinco Ranch High School, a National Honor Society (NHS) member, a National Chinese Honor Society member, and a tutor for the Mu Alpha Theta program. She is an active volleyball player, volunteers for multiple clubs, and works at ESN Health in Villagio Town Center. She also ran her first half-marathon in April.
GPA: 4.02
Opportunity has not come easily for Dore’. As an infant in Nanchang, China, she was left on the street by her birth family to be found, and was later adopted and brought to the U.S. In her teens, she is committed to creating a bright future for herself and plans to attend Baylor University.
AWARDS
“I am always striving to find ways to challenge and push myself to the next level. I set personal goals that I am determined to achieve and set high standards for myself in everything I do.”
96 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Chinese II Award, Sophomore Class Leadership Award, Best Defensive Player Award, and the Outstanding Volunteer Award from Eternal Food Ministry for The Bowl of Life organization
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KATY TEENS A Natural Leader
Connor Cerda is the founder and president of the Seven Lakes High School Military Club and is involved in Spartans for Christ, Ultimate Frisbee Club, NHS, and is on the varsity track and field team as a pole vaulter. He was also selected to be on Congressman Olson’s Youth Advisory Council, and attended Boys State and West Point Academy’s Summer Leadership Experience. In the summer, Cerda works as a lifeguard and babysits, and each week he leads a Bible study for junior high boys at Grace Fellowship UMC.
Connor Cerda
Senior
GPA: 4.30
He has accepted an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, class of 2021. Cerda was also offered a full, four-year Army ROTC scholarship. In summer 2017, he will embark on his adventure into the military, college, and a new career. “My dream to attend West Point and a career in the military has driven all my decisions throughout high school. I’ve had to constantly strive for the best in all I do, whether it’s athletics, academics, or leadership. I’ve had to step out of my comfort zone and accomplish tasks that challenge me and lead others to do the same. Every decision I make could potentially have kept me from achieving my goal. I take duty, honor, and country seriously.”
Nomination to U.S. Military Academy - Congressman Pete Olson, Texas Boys State
Love for Her Peers
Senior
GPA: 4.46
Linda Duraj is the president of the Taylor High School student council, and is vice president of the senior class. She also serves as the student council vice president in the Greater Houston area. She is active in Special PALS, Best Buddies, NHS, and Spanish National Honor Society, as well as the YoungLife Bible study group. Through NHS, Duraj has contributed approximately 150 hours of community service to various groups in the Katy Area. She was also named homecoming queen in 2016. Outside of school, she works as a nanny to three Katy children whom she adores. Duraj will attend the University of Texas in the fall, where she plans to pursue a degree in finance or accounting, and hopes to enter law school. “My ambition and love for my peers sets me apart from other students. I am constantly determined to build new relationships and use what I learn from others to make a difference in my school and community.”
AWARDS
Linda Duraj
AWARDS
Citizenship Award for honor, dependability, values, and trust,
Student Leadership Award from Alton Frailey, Recognition of Achievement, THS Good Sportsmanship League, Recognition of Straight A’s, Spirit Award, and Junior Counselor of Achievement
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 97
Payton Miller
Guided by Faith
Payton Miller is on the varsity cross country team at Taylor High School, a member of the Chorale and Expressions Chambers Choir, NHS, and Mustangs Volunteer Proudly, and is a THS Impact Bible study leader. Outside of school, he serves on the Alpha Charity League - Katy Chapter and has been vice president and photographer. He has also served as a Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership ambassador since 2015 and enjoys participating in the adult choir at Second Baptist Church.
Senior
GPA: 4.17
Miller delights in volunteering with Eternal Food Ministries in Katy and is always grateful for opportunities to give to those in need. “My morning begins with scripture, which is the tool that guides my day in a positive direction. The consistent messages I take away from my devotional time are to serve others and remember, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’”
1st Division Large Ensemble, THS Academic All-District - Cross Country, Katy ISD Student Excellence Award - English, Senior Student of the Week, Presidential Volunteer Service Award
Amy Yang
AWARDS
Hugh O’Brian Sophomore Leadership Award, 1st Division Solo and
Talent and Dedication
Junior
Amy Yang is most active in her Seven Lakes High School’s FBLA organization, where she serves as president. She is also an active member of NHS, Spartans Out Serving, National Art Honor Society, National Chinese Honor Society, and the Houston branch of the Alliance of Youth Leaders in the United States, where she serves as secretary. Every summer, she teaches elementary age students about art and English at a local camp and is passionate about her students. Yang also enjoys kickboxing, sketching, and baking. She is a talented artist whose pieces have sold for up to $25,000 at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Auction.
GPA: 4.71
Yang hopes to attend a school with a strong business program and plans to pursue a degree in the business field.
AWARDS
“Katy is full of accomplished students, but something that sets me apart is my ability to combine talent with dedication.”
98 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
1st place for American Enterprise Project and 3rd place for Personal Finance at state level (junior), Gold Key Award for Regional Scholastics, display at the Houston Museum of Fine Arts
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Passion for the Environment
Maddie McKowen
Maddie McKowen is the co-editor-in-chief for the Cinco Ranch High School Yearbook and involved in the County Line school newspaper, the co-president of the environmental club, and the vice president of programs for the National Charity League Azalea Chapter. She is also an active volunteer and intern for the Citizen’s Climate Lobby and Rawfully Organic co-op. She serves as a member of the NHS, La Societe Honoraire de Francais, Science NHS, Quill & Scroll Honor Society, and National Society of High School Scholars.
Senior GPA: 4.00
McKowen enjoys playing varsity lacrosse for the Katy Lady Cavaliers, and her team placed second in Texas in 2016. She will pursue a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering before earning her graduate degree in sustainable engineering at Colorado School of Mines. “My passion for sustainability, plant-based nutrition, health, portrait photography, and good design runs deep within everything that I do, and I’ve found that others take notice.”
Silver Key in Scholastic Art & Writing Award for Photography
Sterling Success in Athletics
Senior
Lauren Robinson is very involved in campus athletics at Tompkins High School, playing on varsity for volleyball, track and field, and swimming, where she serves as team co-captain. She is also a district and regional medalist in swimming, and a district and area medalist in track and field. She is a member of NHS, Science NHS, is the secretary for HOSA, and Campus Crusaders. She has served as treasurer for the OTHS student council for the last two years.
GPA: 4.63
She is also very active in her church’s youth group and leads a junior high small group on Sunday mornings. Recently, she won a silver medal for the shot put and discus event at the Area 19-20 6A track and field events. In the fall, Robinson will attend Baylor University and will major in biology before continuing as a premed student. “I am very excited to see what God has planned for my future at Baylor and beyond.”
AWARDS
Lauren Robinson
AWARDS
Texas A&M Communications Workshop Outstanding Design Award,
Falcon Award for Exemplary Character and Academic Achievement, Tompkins High School All A’s Award (4 years), varsity field crew MVP
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 99
Raheem Memon
Inspired by Personal Loss
Raheem Memon holds the title of secretary for the Harmony School of Katy’s NHS chapter, and is a member of HOSA and Baywatchers, an environmental protection and habitat mitigation club. He is also the editor of the school newspaper and participates in soccer and cross country.
Junior
GPA: 4.69
In his free time, Memon is a certified referee for the South Youth Texas Soccer Association, and has volunteered at the Heritage Park of Katy home every week since the seventh grade, in addition to his service at the Harris Health System each summer. Memon plans to attend University of Texas at Austin and will major in biology in medical research. After the loss of a close family member, Memon was inspired to follow a career path in medical research. He feels that his ability to handle his responsibilities with grace prepare him for the adult world.
Emperor Science Award, Carson Scholar and recipient of the Dr. Ben Carson Scholarship, 2017 Congressional Award Medalist
Fesolami Akinwande
Senior
AWARDS
“I am gaining an understanding for the hard work of all the successful adults out there in the world.”
Love for Helping Others
GPA: 4.27
Fesolami Akinwande is involved in NHS and HOSA at the Harmony School of Katy, where she is vice president, and plays on her high school basketball and soccer teams where she serves as captain. She also volunteers on Sundays in her church’s nursery, and at Houston Methodist West Hospital. She has worked as a math tutor in her free time, as well as a team member at a local restaurant. She plans to attend Houston Baptist University in the fall. One of her most cherished memories is a trip to Turkey with other HSI-Katy students that taught her about other cultures. She is also a regular blood and bone marrow donor and truly loves helping others.
AWARDS
“I have grown to love volunteering and making others happy." KM All A’s Honor Roll (4 years), 2016 Principal’s Award, 2016 Chapter Officer Award
*Students’ GPAs may have changed since the time of print.
100 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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MORE AWESOME KATY TEENS
Thank you to the Katy community and our schools for your nominations!
Sophie Anderson (BISH) Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, editor of school newsletter Fatehmeh Ebrahimi (THS) Katy ISD Livestock Show and Rodeo sculpture sold for record $102K Bailey Egan (CRHS) co-founder/co-president of Bowl of Life Kenneth Fernandes (CRHS) Spanish NHS, choir council president, Texas All-State choir Wahibah Hannan (MCHS) 2017 National Merit Scholar Ben Heintz (SLHS) Tommy Tune Award nomination for best actor in Big Fish Gianna Hogan (OTHS) HOSA, NHS, president for Crimson Cavalettes social committee Kendall Hollo (CRHS) varsity soccer team captain, NHS, Ginger Club, first team all-district soccer Hayden Howerton (KHS) Katy football team captain, first team all-district offensive line, SMU commit Rene Juarez (MRHS) Houston Youth Symphony, Katy Youth Symphony, TMEA Outstanding Musicianship Award Deyzan Knox (HSI) founder of Helping Hands, NHS Chase Koch (BISH) Head Boy, UN High Level Political Forum participant in New York Zion Mpeye (SLHS) four-year class president, student round table, interact club, district champion 110 hurdles, 4x400 relay Sara Rosado (MRHS) Katy ISD Student Excellence Award, NHS, English NHS, Spanish NHS Allyson Sadler (KHS) Katy FFA president, four year state-level Texas A&M Veterinary Medicine contest participant Teagan Schmidt (CRHS) Cougar Stars colonel, TDEA All-State dance team, volunteer with Animal Rehab Center Grayson Snyder (CRHS) Class Leadership Award, varsity mascot, NHS, American Sign Language NHS, Science NHS, CATS Elena Welsh (SJPXXII) varsity volleyball, Spanish NHS, NHS, Girl Scouts national delegate Brielle Wood (OTHS) Super Bowl of Caring local youth ambassador Thomas Xiong (SLHS) National Science Olympiad, officer for Song of Hope, accepted to MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Yale
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GUIDE
Typhoon Texas
iFly Houston
Katy Adventure
Bucket List A guide to the Katy Area’s most action-packed, fun-filled activities
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Thrill-seekers, you don’t have to buy a plane ticket to embark on an unforgettable adventure; just head down the street to these adrenaline-pumping hot spots close by. Written by Ashley Lancaster
Texas Rock Gym
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Topgolf
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Houston Panic Room
Columbus, Texas
1. Texas Twister Waterslide
4. Texas Paddling Trail
Climb into a raft large enough for you and five friends, tumble down the heart-stopping waterslide, and careen across the Texas flag-painted boomerang wall.
The 6.5 mile trip via canoe along peaceful waters and calm rapids will reveal wildlife to you in a whole new way. The trail begins at Highway 71 just north of Columbus and ends at Beasons Park, just one block away from downtown. This quiet country town is also a wonderland for bird-enthusiasts, camping, shopping, fishing, hiking, and more.
Typhoon Texas typhoontexas.com
2. Indoor Skydiving iFly Houston iflyworld.com
Anyone 4 years old and over can come experience the thrill of skydiving in a supervised, indoor facility. High-powered return air towers allow air to pass through secured columns, and experienced instructors are standing by to give tips.
3. Escape the Room Houston Panic Room texaspanicroom.com
Can you crack the code and escape the room before it’s too late? Book an hour-long session with themes like Zombie Apocalypse and Abandoned Classroom.
City of Columbus tpwd.texas.gov
5. Extreme Rock Climbing Texas Rock Gym texasrockgym.com
Challenge yourself by tackling over 14,000 square feet of climbable surface that is frequently changed and updated to keep climbers on their toes. Try partner activities like top roping and lead climbing, or solo adventures in their autobelay or bouldering areas. They also offer team building, birthday parties, climbing lessons, and fitness classes.
Circle Lake Ranch
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Splashway Waterpark
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6. Golf Games Topgolf topgolf.com
Experienced and beginner golfers can participate in interactive challenges and competitions at a state-ofthe-art driving range.
7. Horseback Riding Circle Lake Ranch circlelakeranch.com
Learn proper horseback riding technique and how to care for an equestrian friend with group-led lessons or camps.
8. Ray’s Riptide
Splashway Waterpark and Campgrounds splashwaywaterpark.com
Altitude Trampoline Park
Careen and twist through tunnels on a four-person raft from atop a 63-foot tower before rushing headlong into cool waves on Ray’s Riptide! When you’re done, book a cozy campsite just a few steps away from their legendary waterpark attractions and enjoy amenities like fishing, biking trails, paddle boats, kayaking, and lots more.
9. Trampoline Dodgeball Altitude Trampoline Park altitudekaty.com
Duck, dive, and dodge your way around opponents using the trampoline floor and padded walls.
10. Sporting Clays Westside Sporting Grounds wsgclays.com
Westside Sporting Grounds Chase A. Fountain, TPWD
Spend the day enjoying their three unique sporting clays courses. They offer lessons for all levels from beginner to expert, as well as tournaments and events.
11. Alligator Spotting Brazos Bend State Park tpwd.texas.gov
Just a short drive away in Needville, Texas lies a perfect destination for families wanting to explore nature. Go on a scavenger hunt, view alligators and other wildlife from their observation decks, go horseback riding, or visit the George Observatory on Saturdays from 3 to 10 p.m. to gaze at the stars.
12. Hike and Bike George Bush Park pct3.com
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Explore 7,800 acres of natural beauty in the heart of Katy. The park features hike and bike trails, fishing, areas for horseback rides, picnics and parks, and outdoor sports facilities.
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A Spanish Immersion Preschool
$50 off
monthly tuition for one year for full time students * only valid for new students
Full Spanish immersion for 18 months to age 4 Art, Music, Yoga, Math and Science Saturday classes 10am-12pm Children ages 4-8 years Low Student to Teacher Ratio
(832) 437-6479 5024 E 5th. St. Katy, TX 77493
Follow us on
Spanish Learning Castle
www.SpanishLearningCastle.com ani@spanishlearningcastle.com
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 105
13. Mechanical Bull Riding Jumpstreet gotjump.com
Hold on tight and challenge your friends to see who can conquer the whipping and whirling mechanical bull.
14. Gravity Ropes Course Main Event mainevent.com
Defy gravity as you make your way across a thrilling ropes course. They also have indoor bowling, laser tag, and arcade games.
15. Miniature Golf Mary Jo Peckham Park pct3.com
Jumpstreet
Improve your short game with 18 holes of miniature golf set in one of Katy’s favorite parks surrounded by beautiful walking trails, a dog park, and fishing pier.
16. Segway Obstacle Courses Segway Outback segwayoutback.com
5
Try something new, improve your balance, and conquer new terrain on one of their nine indoor obstacle courses.
17. Laser Tag TILT Studio tiltstudio.com
Fight your way through a black light obstacle course as your team competes for high scores, or participate in capture-the-flag sessions.
18. Indoor Go Karting
TILT Studio
Track 21 track21houston.com
Zoom around the track at top speed with your friends. They also have an awesome laser tag arena and black light golf course if you want a break between races.
19. Disc Golf
Willow Fork Park willowforkdrainagedistrict.com Enjoy a classic game of disc golf just across the street from LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch.
20. Stingray Encounters Downtown Aquarium aquariumrestaurants.com
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8
Touch and feed live stringrays at the new Stingray Reef exhibit just off of IH-45 in Downtown Houston. KM
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More Adventure Shots! iFly
Typhoon Texas
Splashway Waterpark
Columbus, Texas
Topgolf
Jumpstreet To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 107
PEOPLE
Madison Paige’s first album, Lace and Pearls, is funky, truth-telling, and personal
Laurie Wardlow Photography
“Katy has been the ROOT of all my SUPPORT. I have gotten so much love from this BEAUTIFUL TOWN.” - Madison Paige
g at Performin xas Te Typhoon
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Madison Paige Katy’s up-and-coming country music star has big plans for her future Written by Kennan Buckner | Photography courtesy of Madison Paige
Katy born and raised, 18-year-old Madison Paige finds herself at home behind the microphone and performing on stage. She’s been singing since she could talk. “It is something that is natural to me,” Paige says. “It’s the only thing I’ve spent my whole life doing.”
Her Kind of Country
Paige describes her take on country music as funky, truthtelling, and personal. Her debut EP album Lace and Pearls released May 6. She worked with Stormy Cooper and Lyndon Hughes of Stormy Cooper Media to produce the album. It includes the already released single “Stand Tall.” “My fans can expect personal experiences with every song on the album as they are all originals,” says Paige. “This EP album is a huge stepping stone in my career.” She also recently won first place in the senior division of Rodeo Rockstar at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
A True Performer
When Paige was just 5 years old, she made her debut on stage at Schmalz Elementary School’s talent show. While she was singing Annie’s “Tomorrow” the electricity went out, but that didn’t stop Paige. “I got off the stage and walked down into the audience of kids and parents and just sang my heart out,” she remembers. It was then that her music teacher told her mother, “I can teach someone to sing, but I can’t teach someone stage presence, and she has it.” Paige had a chance to audition on this season’s series of The Voice. She says she attended an open casting call and made it all the way through to the blind auditions. When asked if she was nervous, she shares, “I wasn’t until I hit the stage where the judges were.” Although she didn’t make it through to the next round, she says the experience helped her make a lot of great friends and learn more about the business.
Overcoming Bullying
Paige is a former Katy High School student and is finishing her high school career as a homeschooler. “My biggest obstacle has been bullying,” Paige shares. She experienced unbelievable things at the hands of her bullies including choking, cyberbullying, and more. “I always broke down from it, and it seriously got to me mentally. I almost quit what I loved because of it.” Since then, Paige has found her strength. “I have learned maturity comes through hard times.”
Life as an Artist
These days, when she’s not making plans for college, she is pursuing music. “I have my head wrapped around singing as it is my only job,” she says. “Some dreams for the future are to create a band, start my first tour, and become an opener for country fairs and rodeos. Music will always come first.” Her music process is truly original. A self-taught guitar player for eight years, Paige often finds inspiration from daily life. She grabs her guitar, songwriting journal, and Macbook. “I hit record in the Photo Booth app and sing what I feel come to my heart. Then in some cases, I will be so upset that I write words down to a melody. I just randomly sing in my head and then put guitar chords to it,” says Paige.
Hometown Support
No matter where her music takes her, Paige says Katy will be a part of it. She’s gained most of her music performing experience in her hometown. “Katy has been the root of all my support. From my family to my friends to my fans to the strangers that come across me, Katy has been my number one,” she says. KM
Check out her YouTube channel and Facebook page “The Madison Paige Country”
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 109
PEOPLE
Hitting
the High Notes When Luke Hsu’s mother handed him a violin at the age of 4, he didn’t fiddle around like a typical preschooler, but went on to astonish the world with his passion for music Written by Tassie Hewitt | Photography courtesy of Luke Hsu
Luke Hsu graduated from Cinco Ranch High school in 2008 and has played in concert halls all over the world
V
Violinist Luke Hsu lives in London and performs at famous concert halls throughout the world, but this 2008 graduate of Cinco Ranch High School credits his hometown with giving him the space he needed to reach his dreams.
More Than Music
As a child, Hsu watched his mother, Yueming Song, give violin lessons in their home. “She was the first one who really got me interested in the violin,” says Hsu, who fell in love with classical music at a young age. “When I was 7 or 8, I was very enamored with Bach’s 6 Sonata and Partitas. I remember hearing my mom practice it. Even at that time, there was something that captivated me.” When he was 10, Hsu began taking lessons more seriously. “I think the main reason I became a musician was because of my first teacher, Fridell Lack. She taught some of the great Houston talents,” says Hsu, whose passion to play professionally intensified under her instruction. “She’s 95 now. She said I would be the last student she would take, that she saw a lot of things that were special in me, and wanted to take me under her wing.” From that point on, Hsu made music his priority. “Ever since my encounter with Bach when I was young, and with Fridell Lack, it became quite clear,” he says. “When you go to someone like her, you
110 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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feel like your sole purpose in life is music.” Hsu continued to play and later participated in the orchestra at both Beck Junior High and Cinco Ranch High School.
Reaching a Crescendo
The magic of the music was just beginning. Hsu continued his studies at the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University and the New England Conservatory. He is currently at the Royal Academy of Music in London.
“
“KATY IS VERY FAMILY-ORIENTED. IT’S SOMETHING THAT I REALLY APPRECIATE NOW THAT I’M OLDER.”
“
- Luke Hsu
“I’ve always had this persistent curiosity for the music that I play, and the love that I have for it,” says Hsu. “What appeals to me most about music is the opportunity to react to something that is captured by sounds. There’s always a transcendent transformation that happens. There’s this personal journey, this story.” His international solo and chamber music career is now renowned throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. Hsu’s musical journey has included playing at some of the most celebrated concert halls in the world, including Carnegie Hall in New York, Jordan Hall in Boston, and Wigmore Hall in London. “My favorite concert experience is whenever I put 100% of myself in it musically and physically,” says Hsu. “I can’t pick a favorite hall. If I give it all to the music, I’ve accomplished it.” He has won numerous competitions, but considers one of his greatest achievements to be winning the Wieniawski Violin Competition in 2016 in Poznań, Poland. “It’s one of the biggest competitions in the world that gave some legendary names their careers,” says Hsu. “It’s an incredible honor to even participate, but my greatest achievement is to have this attitude of being able to grow and always seek more in whatever music I play.”
Music Is Life
With his hectic schedule, Hsu’s greatest challenge is to achieve a balance between his passion for perfection with his need to live his life. “If I have a performance, I can’t falter,” says Hsu. “There’s always this pressure. I sometimes feel like a slave to my instrument.” That instrument is a J.B. Guadagnini violin, which Hsu nicknamed “Ex Parma.” It was made in 1765 and worth $1.1 million. “The bigger value of it is the sound it can create,” says Hsu. “The tone is golden. It helps me explore with more colors and more sounds. I feel very lucky to be playing this instrument.” Hsu plans to stay in London and continue sharing his passion with audiences worldwide. “My love for music is a way of life,” says Hsu, who strives to find the emotion, expression, and feeling of each piece, and reveal that to his audience. “I’ve always felt in service to the music. There’s so much I’ve yet to discover. There’s so much to learn.” KM TASSIE HEWITT is a freelance writer who plays the keyboard (on her computer), and believes music is the universal language of the soul.
Virtuoso Venues Luke Hsu has performed at... CARNEGIE HALL - NEW YORK KENNEDY CENTER - WASHINGTON, D.C. JORDAN HALL - BOSTON JONES HALL - HOUSTON WIGMORE HALL - LONDON TEATRO CARLO FELICE - GENOA
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 111
NEW ARRIVALS
Birth announcements for some of Katy’s newest arrivals
Ashley Yates Photography
Londyn Layne Photography
River Wallach
Sawyer Wallach 5 pounds, 8 ounces 18.75 inches January 5, 2017 Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital Son of Travis and Amanda Wallach
8 pounds, 1 ounce 21 inches January 18th, 2017
Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital Daughter of Travis and Amanda Wallach
Houston Methodist West Hospital Son of Emily Zotyka
Ezra Vera
8 pounds, 5 ounces 19.7 inches January 18, 2017
8 pounds, 10 ounces 21.75 inches February 14, 2017
Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital Daughter of Yilmaz and Iryna Bingol
Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital Son of Fernando and Rosie Vera
Lifetime of Clicks Photography
Isola Photo
Estela Giargei
Adel Bingol
Jace Zotyka
4 pounds, 9 ounces 15.5 inches January 5, 2017
Leslie Adamski 8 pounds, 10 ounces 21.5 inches January10, 2017 The Woman’s Hospital of Texas Daughter of Mark Adamski and Kim Roberts
Send your birth announcements for possible publication.
It’s free! Email editor@katymagazine.com. Please do not send photos protected by copyright.
112 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 113
EXCITING NEWS AND EVENTS FROM KATY BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS University of Houston Names Director of Engineering Programs at Katy Campus
Patsy Stanley Receives Namesake Recognition Patsy Stanley’s name has been added to Stanley Elementary. The Katy ISD Board of Trustees presented her as a namesake not only to highlight the memory and legacy of Stan Stanley, but to honor everything she has done for Katy ISD. She has been a constant supporter to the students, staff, and parents, contributing countless hours to the school and the district. The new school name is Stan C. and Patsy Stanley Elementary.
Phaneendra Kondapi, a veteran engineering educator who helped develop the nation’s first subsea engineering program at the University of Houston, has been named founding director of engineering programs at the University of Houston at Katy. The UH Cullen College of Engineering began offering two energy-focused engineering courses at the Houston Community College (HCC) NorthwestKaty Campus last fall, in advance of the planned opening of a new UH System facility in Katy in 2018. The graduate-level course offerings are focused on areas in high demand in Houston’s Energy Corridor. Five graduate-level classes will be offered at the HCC Katy campus this fall.
Houston Methodist West Hospital Receives High Marks The Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit organization which assigns letter grades to hospitals nationwide, rewarded Houston Methodist West Hospital an “A” for its commitment to reducing errors, infections, and accidents that can harm patients, ranking among the safest hospitals in the U.S.
Katy ISD is Awarded for Digital Equity The Consortium for School Networking honored the district for its work in bridging the digital divide by helping students who do not have highspeed internet or devices at home. Katy ISD loans devices to students and offers WiFi hotspots at each campus library.
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Four Memorial Hermann Nurses Receive Specialized Certification Carolyn Allsen, Sylvia Brown, Jessica Burgess, and Deidra Teoh are the first nurses in Houston, and among the first in the nation, to become certified by the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators (AONN). The team will service all eight Memorial Hermann Cancer Centers, including the one in Katy, ensuring oncology patients throughout the Greater Houston Area receive specialized attention.
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Katy Area 2020 Plan The strategic plan, facilitated by TadZo consulting firm, will identify and target new industries, build relationships with real estate officials, retain expanding local employers, and market the area. The Katy Area EDC (KAEDC) received input from the public about what was important to them and how the KAEDC can help the city grow.
New Buc-ee’s Katy Store to Build Largest Car Wash in the World
KARE Attends Education Rally Members of the Katy Area Retired Educators group joined the 1,100 Texas Retired Teachers Association members at the annual convention in Austin, Texas. This was followed with a day of advocacy at the Texas Capitol where members convened to rally and meet with legislators regarding proposed changes to TRS healthcare and the pension fund.
The popular Texas convenience store and gas station will have a 225-foot long car wash which will accompany a 56,000-square foot store and 120 gas pumps. The store was originally scheduled to open this spring, but construction timelines have been pushed back due to the installation of a generator powerful enough to keep the store running in the event of a power outage. The new anticipated opening is set for this fall, and will provide approximately 200 jobs to the area.
YMCA, UT Health, and National MS Society Create Unique Fitness and Education Program Moving Stronger, an exercise and education program specifically designed for people with multiple sclerosis, was launched by three institutions that are national leaders in their respective fields. The program is free of charge and the first of its kind in the country. The 12-week program will be held at the Monty Ballard YMCA at Cinco Ranch and will include 24 sessions of exercise, education, and bonding discussions around subjects relevant to people with MS.
Katy ISD Education Foundation Rewarded Rusty Wylie, operator of the Cinco Ranch, Mason Rd., and Katy Green locations; and marketing directors, Wendy Reinwald and Amy Lehr nominated the Katy ISD Education Foundation for the True Inspiration Award given out by The Chick-fil-A Foundation. The Katy Education Foundation was one of 22 organizations and the foundation received $15,000. – Only if this fits the space and isn’t too much trouble.
Eagle’s Trace Residents Volunteer A group of residents and employees from the Erickson Living retirement community donated their time at the Houston Peanut Butter Cannery of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints in Houston. The team produced over 8,600 jars of peanut butter which will be shipped to food banks in Harris and Montgomery counties and the City of Houston.
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 115
Katy Area EDC International Partnerships Lance LaCour traveled to Aberdeen, Scotland and Munich and Mannheim, Germany to visit with businesses to help bring growth to the Katy Area. The three are home to numerous energy companies, and LaCour took part in events and meetings to explore how to create more relationships and continue to advance Aberdeen, Katy, and Germany as worldwide leaders in the energy industry.
Katy Boardwalk Under Construction The city broke ground on the Katy Boardwalk District, and the first phase is scheduled to be completed by December 31, 2017. The mixed-use project will include a boardwalk, nature trails, two loft-style apartment complexes, retail stores, and restaurants. Developers of the living complexes are expected to begin building in June or July.
Cinco Ranch Tops The List Of Great Places to Live
Niche, an online ranking site for colleges, K-12 schools, and places to live, has ranked the Katy suburb of Cinco Ranch as the second best place to live in Texas for 2017. Coming in second only to Rollingwood, a suburb of Austin, Cinco Ranch was given four out of five stars for it’s safety, clean streets, schools, and friendly neighbors.
Katy ISD Student Meets Senator Kolkhorst Peter, a student in Katy ISD, was granted a meeting with Senator Lois Kolkhorst. He spoke to her about repealing the STAAR test and said that he would rather have district assessments. Senator Kolkhorst discussed the emphasis on testing and how it benefits both the students and teachers.
Scholarship Program Available State Representative Mike Schofield is accepting applications for the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program (TASSP) for the 2017-2018 academic school year. TASSP is for students entering college in the fall of 2017 and will provide funding towards an undergraduate degree at any Texas university with an active ROTC program. For more information, visit hhloans.com.
New Goddard School Location Construction has started in northwest Cinco Ranch, next to Jenks Elementary School and will be operational in August 2017. They are now accepting applications for enrollment.
New Park Coming to Katy
Future Golf Stars Compete at the Masters Maye and Treed Huang, students in Katy ISD, competed in the annual Drive, Chip, and Putt National Finals in Augusta, Georgia during the Masters Golf Tournament. Maye won the putting contest in the 7 to 9-year-old division.
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John Paul’s Landing Park, located off of Katy Hockley Road, is open to the public, but some amenities are still under development. The hiking trails are available for walking and a pavilion is currently being built. Fishing piers, picnic areas, and restrooms will be available soon.
Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Awards Two telecommunicators received statewide recognition at the Texas Public Safety Conference. This conference was a joint venture between the Texas chapters of National Emergency Number Association (NENA) and Association of PublicSafety Communications Officials (APCO). Both of the representatives were nominated and received Texas Chapter NENA awards.
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The Goddard School’s Summer Camp offers a broad range of programs and mini camps crafted to pique the interest and curiosity of every child; there is something for everybody!
CRAYON
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AY ON
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Call today to enroll! JUNE 5 - AUGUST 18 • KINDERGARTEN - 5TH GRADE
ONE WEEK FREE TUITION FOR SUMMER CAMP!* KATY (CINCO VILLAGE CENTER)^ • 281-392-1912 KATY (RANCH POINT) • 281-392-1200
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GoddardSchool.com *Offer valid for new Goddard families at the above location only. Some program restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offer. The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2017
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Ultra Group 1/3 H
118 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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General, Laparoscopic & Robotic • Non-Invasive Options • Compassionate Care
© 2013 Katy Magazine
For Peace of Mind
Dr. Khoury’s understanding of the latest medical advances sets him apart. He is well known not only for his skill and compassion, but for his steadfast dedication to his patients.
Sammy E. Khoury, M.D.
Diplomate of American Board of Surgery
23960 Katy Fwy., Suite 130, Katy, TX 77494 Surgical privileges at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital - Dept. Chair of Surgery Houston Methodist West Hospital Houston Methodist Hospital Medical Center Rice Medical Center - Chief of Surgery
281-347-0088
Consulta con su medico en Español
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 119
Katy Magazine gives a shout-out to all the good news happening in our community Kingsland Baptist Church The church held a car care clinic designed for single parents and people on fixed or limited incomes. Haven at Highland Knolls The community, along with The Learning Experience, held a book drive and donated all of the books to the DePelchin Children’s Center in Katy. Jimmy Changas The Katy location donated $5,000 to help Katy American Little League with clean up and the purchase of new equipment after the league’s storage room was vandalized. First Choice Emergency Rooms The emergency care unit held a collection drive for items to fill care packages for members of the military and first responders. Chick-fil-A The Mason Road location helped provide clean water for Nicaragua from the sale of Dasani bottled water. All of the proceeds went to Living Water International. Legacy at Falcon Point The residents read books to the children in the Child Watch center at Monty Ballard YMCA at Cinco Ranch. The Waters Church Every third Monday of the month, the church provides lunch and treats to the officers of the Katy police department.
We salute these Katy Area businesses and groups for giving back!
Pet Adoptions Fort Bend County Commissioner Vincent Morales paid for multiple adoption fees to help rescue pets at the Fort Bend County Animal Shelter. Menchie’s The frozen yogurt shop donated 15% of its sales to The Lifelong Learning Center.
Grand Vision Center The optometrists gave free eye exams to friends of Hope Impacts. Tricia Turner Properties The real estate company offers 1% of the sales price back at closing to all firefighters, first responders, police officers, and military. They also offer $1,000 to all teachers at closings. Foster Creek Veterinary Hospital The animal hospital provided free spays, neuters, and rabies vaccines for the dogs who were found and rescued by the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office. Thayer O’Neal The accounting firm presented Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship with a $7,500 check. CrossPoint Westgreen Members of the church partnered with Clothed By Faith to offer items to families in need. Bags were distributed and will be filled with socks, shoes, underwear, and other clothing items. Wilson Elementary School The students, staff, and school community donated over $1,900 to Officer Santiago so he can continue his Teddy Cop program. Good Ole Boys The Cajun restaurant held an all-you-caneat crawfish boil to help raise funds for the Katy Cares organization. Katy Budget Books The book store has a used credit account that has been donated to public school teachers. Carriage Inn A luncheon was held to show support for first responders in the community. Crafts and goodie bags were put together by the residents themselves.
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Sunblock For Your Eyes Protect your eyes from the damage of Ultra Violet (UV) radiation.
Shiroz Virani, OD
23702 Westheimer • Katy TX, 77494
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CARING FOR THE EYES OF TEXAS
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 121
A SECTION FOR KATY AREA PARENTS, STUDENTS, AND EDUCATORS
KALKE’S CHORUS • 124 FOREVER EDUCATORS • 126 KATY ISD ACCOLADES • 128 TEACHER CONFESSIONS • 130 SCHOOL SCOOP • 132 SCHOOL NOTEBOOK • 134 THE CLASS OF 2017 • 136
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 123
EDUCATION
Choir director, Steve Kalke, started the Newcomer Choir at McMeans Junior High to help engage international and new students
“I can’t think of a time that I didn’t want to be in a classroom helping people discover the beauty of music.” - Steve Kalke
Kalke’s McMeans Junior High choir director, Steve Kalke, adds a love of music and lifelong lessons to students’ repertoire Written by Kennan Buckner | Select photography by Reinaldo Medina
A piano player by the age of 5, McMeans Junior High (MMJH) choir director, Steve Kalke, loved music and school so much he decided to make both a career. “I can’t remember when I didn’t want to be a teacher,” he says. As a teenager, with a need for gas money and car insurance to pay, he taught private music lessons. He was recently awarded the MMJH Lifetime Achievement Award by the PTA. “He is a delight to have on my campus,” Principal Susan Rice says. “I love his enthusiasm, passion, and commitment.” With decades of musical experience, Kalke takes his classes seriously, but makes sure students enjoy it, too. Parent
124 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Naomi Hayes says, “While making music is a wonderful benefit to his job, it is evident his true calling is to make certain that each student has a song in their heart first.”
Caring About Students
Kalke works hard to create a family environment in the classroom. Eighth-grade student Jillian Marty says, “We are not just a choir class, we are a family.” Not only does he make music both fun and challenging, he keeps in mind the everyday pressures junior high students face. Seventhgrader Melissa Hayes says, “If anyone is stressed, Mr. Kalke takes a minute to talk about it before we get back to singing. We all know our problems are important to him.”
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Welcoming Newcomers
MMJH is one of three Katy ISD junior high schools participating in the district’s Newcomer program. It offers one year of immersive lessons for first-year recent immigrant students who are non-English speakers. Kalke’s Newcomer class includes 54 students who speak 10 different languages. The learning goes both ways for Kalke. “I learned that kids are kids no matter where they come from,” he shares. “They all like to tease, have bad days, and learn to push through the tough times to make the best of a rough situation. They are amazing.” One of the Newcomer choir’s first performances was singing “God Bless America” during the Veteran’s Day program on campus. “It was the most moving rendition I have ever heard,” Rice says. “It brought tears to my eyes, and I’m so proud to have these students learning to sing under Mr. Kalke’s direction.”
Lifelong Lessons
As students’ understanding of music increases, they build self-confidence with each performance. “Singing is such a personal thing, by that I mean there’s no instrument to get in the way since you are the instrument. It takes a huge amount of self-confidence to sing well,” Kalke says. Parent Jeannie Griffith’s seventh-grade son Thomas has cerebral palsy and uses an electric wheelchair. “The transition to middle school was filled with anxiety for our family,” says Griffith. “All of that changed when we were introduced to Mr. Kalke.” Kalke met with the Griffith family before the school year began and assessed Thomas’ abilities. He made it clear his
expectations for Thomas would be no different from any other choir member. One day after school, Thomas shared that Kalke had been “hard” on him. Jeannie says, “When I asked if he had done something to make Mr. Kalke angry, Thomas responded, ‘No, Mr. Kalke doesn’t get angry. He just wants me to want better for myself.’” Whether it’s sight singing or ear training, building confidence or welcoming new students, Kalke’s kids learn skills helpful to all aspects of life. “I want my students to know I am teaching them a lifelong skill. Singing will always be a part of them,” Kalke says. “I’m taking the long view as an educator. While they are with me for only 50 minutes a day, what they learn here can stay with them forever.” KM
More About Mr. Kalke He and his wife Angela have three children Allyson (24), Alex (21), and Capri (18)
A graduate of Dixie College, Southern Utah University, University of Houston, and Lamar University Voice coach for pop duo MKTO’s Tony Oller and has been since Oller was in the fifth grade Pianist for the choir at his church, White Oak Ward at the LDS church
Kalke expects the best from all of his students
Kalke works to make every student feel special
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 125
KATY ISD NAMESAKES
Both educators, Jamie and Ray Wolman met in the combined cafeteria that served Katy Junior High and Katy High School
oject with Bluebonnet pr students second-grade
Forever Educators Wolman Elementary namesakes and career educators, Ray and Jamie Wolman, share why they are proud to be part of Katy ISD and continually invest in their campus and its students Written by Lacey Kupfer Wulf | Photography by Candace Cook
126 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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R
Ray and Jamie Wolman have dedicated their lives to education in Katy ISD: Ray as a biology teacher and Jamie as a special needs teacher and school counselor. When the Wolmans were told that a school would be named after them, Ray says, “We felt very thankful and humbled to receive such a great honor.” Jamie adds, “We are so proud to be a part of such a vibrant community and outstanding school district.”
Early Beginnings
When he began teaching in 1969, Ray was the only biology teacher in the entire district. Back then, he needed to drive the school bus as well as teach. Some students were dropped off by riding farm tractors to the bus stops, even during rainstorms. Later, he organized nature and biology lessons for elementary, junior high, and high school levels at the Outdoor Learning Center (OLC). From 1974 to 1980, Jamie taught special needs students. She says, “Those days when [the students] realized how easy learning a skill could be were so rewarding for all of us.” Even though Jamie taught at Katy Junior High and Ray at Katy High School, they first met in a combined school cafeteria.
Outdoor Learning
In 1981, Katy ISD established the OLC on 34.5 acres of land west of Katy High School, where Ray provided biology and nature lessons outdoors. From 1981 through 2004, Ray divided his time between the OLC and Katy High School. Then, he became director of the OLC until 2011 when he retired, becoming the first person to serve Katy ISD for over 40 years. At the OLC’s nature trails, pond, science classroom and museum, history classroom and museum, barn, barnyard, and animal shelters, Ray exposed Katy ISD students to the world around them. He says, “Students can observe and study many biological concepts using native living specimens. Outdoor
learning provides many opportunities that would be impossible to duplicate in an indoor classroom.”
Providing Guidance
After teaching special needs students for a total of 10 years, Jamie decided to pursue more education for herself. While teaching, Jamie also earned her master’s degree in guidance and counseling in 1980 and served as a counselor in Katy ISD until she retired in 2007. In counseling students, she says, “I enjoyed helping them plan their futures and how they could accomplish their goals. It was always such fun to talk with them about the path they wanted to pursue for high school and college.” But she didn’t just talk about academics with students. Laura Beth Jackson, a former student, says, “Mrs. Wolman helped me process difficult situations at home so I could focus on all the opportunities junior high afforded me. Without her guidance, I would not have been able to focus on my grades while building such a strong foundation for leadership and community.”
Serving on Campus
Although now retired, these dedicated educators are far from taking it easy. At every grade level, the Wolmans volunteer and teach students at Wolman Elementary. For example, they hatch chicken eggs with first graders, give bluebonnets to each second grader to plant and study its life cycle at home, and place hummingbird feeders and birdhouses
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for migratory birds outside classroom windows. Not only do the Wolmans give their time to the school, they also serve in Katy Area Retired Educators, Keep Katy Beautiful, and the Katy ISD Education Foundation.
Legacy for Students
In addition to their school and community volunteer work, the Wolmans keep in contact with many past students, who are now successful business men and women, physicians, dentists, attorneys, and school district and city leaders. Ray says, “Even our mail carrier is a former student.” Their influence has now spanned generations as well. Ray adds, “It was a special experience to visit with a grandmother of one of our students at Wolman Elementary that had been a student in my biology class.” More than anything, the Wolmans hope all their students will learn that through desire, determination, and dedication, they can realize their dreams. Jamie adds, “I enjoy seeing my students’ accomplishments and am always happy to help them succeed.” KM LACEY KUPFER WULF is a freelance writer and editor, wife, and mother of twin toddler boys. She appreciates all of the amazing teachers she had. Wolman Elementary’s school mascot is the Explorers
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 127
EDUCATION
KATY ISD ACCOLADES KATY ISD 2017 TOP GRADUATES CINCO RANCH
Trisha Madhavan (Val.) Tiffany Yu (Sal.) Alyssa Wu Nirmit Shah Sarah Halvorsen Aidan Gettemy Amol Patil Sabrina Hodgins Sean Ngo Jamie Tan
KATY
Holly Meier (Val.) Bryan Marin (Sal.) Kendrick Mendoza Brandon Komplin Sophia Lecher Jacob Clayton Sabrina Ghelardi Alexandria Woodward Thanh Vo Denali Ibbotson
MAYDE CREEK
Kunal Jain (Val.) Wahibah Hannan (Sal.) Juseung Park Shourya Kashyap Thy Nguyen Joseph Ola Kassem Abusnineh Andrew Duong Justin Ngov Vivian Lam
MORTON RANCH
Alejandro Gaona (Val.) Pranav Jayaraman (Sal.) Uche Okwo Nicholas Rose Victoria Baltazar Alyssa Chuidian Alexander Viteri Alyssa Reyes Jeremy Bayangos Isra Rehman
SEVEN LAKES
TOMPKINS
Naveen Chokkar (Val.) Jessica Shu (Sal.) Jingze Yu Thomas Xiong Helen Zhou Eva Patel Rohan Sura Justin Zhang Sharon Xu Moniish Elanchezhian
Kavya Chandran (Val.) Lucy Chen (Sal.) Saloni Patel Brett Dolotina Tanaya Pampattiwar Tanvi Jadhav Sudarshan Gopalakrishnan Audrey Liu Brian Bandaranaike Venkata Ravila
TAYLOR
Maria Sturzu (Val.) Shujian Lin (Sal.) Irena Wan Oishik Saha Sheel Yerneni Ananya Subraman Angela Lin Jessica Rao Alissa Nguyen Vincent Liu
Katy Magazine would like to congratulate these hardworking and talented Katy ISD graduates.
KATY ISD 2017 VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR ELEMENTARY
ALEXANDER - Kara Floyd BEAR CREEK - Tiffany Barlas BETHKE - Danielle Wachter CIMARRON - Jan Guess CREECH - Jan Killam DAVIDSON - Cubendri Bach EXLEY - Reeca McCrory FIELDER - Tess Hall FRANZ - Andrea Silva GOLBOW - Amy Heppen GRIFFIN - Maureen Lee HAYES - Diane Jacobson HOLLAND - Kim Greene HUTSELL - Judy Lee JENKS - Kelli Melancon KATY - Amy Kagay KILPATRICK - Kim Beidle KING - Dawn Goodwin MAYDE CREEK - Michelle Espinoza MCROBERTS - Aron James MEMORIAL PARKWAY - Blanca Bagatella MORTON RANCH - Claudia Rodriguez
128 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
NOTTINGHAM - Shelly Hannon PATTISON - Colleen Cooper RANDOLPH - Michele Keppler RHOADS - Kimberly Hood RYLANDER - Devon Hulyk SCHMALZ - Claudia Ceron SHAFER - Angela Kunkel STANLEY - Elizabeth Uptmore STEPHENS - Lisa Garza SUNDOWN - Sara Tijerina WEST MEMORIAL - Angela Jones WILLIAMS - Christy MacDonald WILSON - Carmen Capuchino WINBORN - Lauren Ryan WOLFE - Autumn Sharp WOLMAN - Jen DeVries WOODCREEK - Carla Cotton
JUNIOR HIGH
BECK - Claudina Lovalvo BECKENDORFF - Katie Roberts CARDIFF - Maria Teresa Zataratous CINCO RANCH - Gresha Saenz
KATY - Autumn Christiansen MAYDE CREEK - Donna Ward MCDONALD - Dolly Sanchez MCMEANS - Elita Roos MEMORIAL PARKWAY - Laci Costagliola MORTON RANCH - Anitra Ondrush SEVEN LAKES - Sarah Thai TAYS - Becky Morris WEST MEMORIAL - Robin Stone-Loftin WOODCREEK - Kelly Goering
HIGH SCHOOL
CINCO RANCH - Cris Bowden KATY - Rosario Harter MAYDE CREEK - Maria Torbit MORTON RANCH - Lisa Wycoff SEVEN LAKES - Vanessa Heintz TAYLOR - Sharon Mitchell TOMPKINS - Julie Donnelly
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Celebrating Katy’s Best of the Best TOP GRADS, VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR, AND TEACHERS OF THE YEAR KATY ISD 2017 TEACHERS OF THE YEAR DISTRICT WINNERS ELEMENTARY Kristal L. Parrish WoodCreek Elementary SECONDARY Phuong Nguyen Taylor High School
ELEMENTARY
ALEXANDER - Thomas Daniels BEAR CREEK - Courtney Elliott BETHKE - Kadie Tibbetts CIMARRON - Carla Otero CREECH - Stefanie Huddleston DAVIDSON - Melissa Long EXLEY - Mary Sue Pressentin FIELDER - Kathy Counterman FRANZ - Cindy Meza GOLBOW - Marcella Phillips GRIFFIN - Patricia Bailey HAYES - Lorin Davies HOLLAND - Carolyne Ljungdahl HUTSELL - Tamika S. Stamps JENKS - Maria Martin KATY - Janet L. Tippen KILPATRICK - Ashley Mayzer KING - Brad Finch MAYDE CREEK - Michelle Dowling MCROBERTS - Stephanie Sparkman MEMORIAL PARKWAY - Norma A.T. Morales MORTON RANCH - Erika Silva NOTTINGHAM - Dawn Bryan PATTISON - MaryLou Zeiders RANDOLPH - Anu Boswell Garrity RHOADS - Jennifer Patterson RYLANDER - Timothy W. Wade SCHMALZ - Rachel LeMeilleur SHAFER - Brette Kuretsch STANLEY - Victoria Fleming
STEPHENS - Stacy Slater SUNDOWN - Kyndal Donley WEST MEMORIAL - Tiffani Norsworthy WILLIAMS - Eric Ferrara WILSON - Brenda Stein WINBORN - Michelle Zdancewicz Ehrig WOLFE - Jasmin Russell WOLMAN - Lynda J. Leskey WOODCREEK - Kristal L. Parrish
JUNIOR HIGH
BECK - Brenden Steber BECKENDORFF - Rebecca Calhoun CARDIFF - Mara Tran CINCO RANCH - Sara Nowina KATY - Richard Maher MAYDE CREEK - Edward Aaron Arispe MCDONALD - Devona Joseph-Jenkins MCMEANS - Blake W. Lannom MEMORIAL PARKWAY - Brenda L.L. Williams MORTON RANCH - Auriel Minkins-Jackson SEVEN LAKES - Joy Campbell TAYS - Meredith DaSilva WEST MEMORIAL - Carroll Ann Adams WOODCREEK - Glynn D. Newton
HIGH SCHOOL
CINCO RANCH - Nicole Jamison Peffley KATY - Lisa Phillips MAYDE CREEK - Rebecca Roderick MORTON RANCH - Aislinn Alysse Herrera RAINES - Shannon Goldsmith SEVEN LAKES - Emily Rabalais TAYLOR - Phuong Nguyen TOMPKINS - Kiley Lubojasky
Behavior Transition Program - Patricia Christoffersen Miller Career & Technology Center - Danell Karasek Opportunity Awareness Center - Kristal N. Schneider
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 129
EDUCATION
Compiled by Lacey Kupfer Wulf
Teachers share a few funny anecdotes from the classroom Kindergarten Forever
“I had a student tell me, ‘Mrs. H, I don’t want to go to first grade!’ I explained that they couldn’t stay in kindergarten, they had to move on. To which they protested, ‘No! I want to stay in kindergarten until the good Lord calls me home!’”- B.H.
Beer Pong
“In the middle of our sink and float science activity, I held up a ping pong ball and asked the students if they knew what it was. One student responded, ‘Oh yeah, they make those for beer.’” - K.H.
Gray Hair Guess
“I told my students to draw themselves as 100 years old. One student seemed confused. Another student said, ‘Just draw yourself like Ms. S. with wrinkles, gray hair, and glasses.’ Ms. S. was my aide, probably in her late 50s or early 60s, and she took it very well.” - M.N.
Shocking Revelation
“I have told my students I wish I could put shock collars on them.” - T.T.
Tornado Trouble
“I instructed my class to tell me about tornadoes. One student said, ‘Well, there’s a lot of wind. They pick up things like dirt and rocks and cows.’ Another one, totally serious, added, ‘and witches.’” - K.H.
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Awkward Compliment
“Once, when I was very pregnant with my first kid, I tripped and started to fall forward. I grabbed the nearest person to stabilize myself which happened to be a male student. One arm ended up around his shoulder, and the other on his stomach. Although relieved that I wasn’t going to fall, I realized how awkward the situation was. I said, ‘Thank you. I’m sorry. Um, nice abs.’ That’s a high compliment coming from a fat, pregnant lady, huh?” - J.K.
Odd Invitations
“My first year of teaching, a student asked me to go smoke pot with them, I was asked to go to a party, and someone even tried to ask me to prom.” - T.M.
Tell-tale Signs
“I actually love it when my junior high students mispronounce a word that they know but have never said before. It shows me they are reading silently on their own! Plus, it’s cute.” - L.W.
Mix and Match
“I looked down one day and realized I had on one black shoe and one brown shoe. I could have laughed, but it was the third time that year. Is that a sign I should retire?” - M.K.
Fly Swatter
“I have killed a fly with one of my student’s math books many times.” - J.H.
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EDUCATION
SCHOOL SCOOP NEWS FROM KATY AREA SCHOOLS
New Katy ISD Board Members The board unanimously elected new officers for the 2017-2018 school year. Ashley Vann was elected president, Courtney Doyle was elected vice president, and Charles Griffin was elected as secretary. George Scott will fill the position of TASB Board of Directors and William “Bill” Lacy (pictured center) was welcomed as the newest member of the board.
Katy ISD Student Art Auctions Off for Big Money Students’ works competed in the art auction at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. McMeans Junior High eighth-grader Charles Jang’s drawing titled “A Rare Connection” competed in the Grand Prix and placed first out of 100 districts and was auctioned off for $65,000. Fatemeh Ebrahimi’s sculpture called “The Spirit Within” gained notice from multiple bidders. The Taylor High School eleventh-grader’s artwork sold for $102,000.
Katy ISD Celebrates School Volunteers Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPs) attended a large celebration hosted by the Katy ISD Education Foundation. The VIPS put in over 1 million volunteer hours this school year.
First Senior Graduating Class from Rylander Elementary These students were some of the first to attend and graduate from Rylander Elementary. They are now graduating from high school and celebrated together at the elementary school.
132 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 133
School Notebook More News Nuggets from Katy Schools
Destination Imagination Teams Affiliate
Morton Ranch Bowler Wins at State
Katy ISD will be represented by five teams at the global tournament in Knoxville, Tennessee. Students from Griffin Elementary, Hayes Elementary, Beckendorff Junior High, and Katy High School are preparing to compete against teams from all over the country. In order to make it to the next round, these teams competed against more than 370 teams.
Crystal Cline won second place in the Texas State Girls’ Singles Bowling Tournament. This was her second trip to the finals. She qualified for the tournament after beating 65 other state finalists.
Katy ISD Schools Named to Honor Roll
Multiple theatre students took home all-star awards. Ruaraidh MacLead for stage manager/dungeon master, Dylan Boyd received an honorable mention for his role as Chuck “DM” Biggs, Jonathan Buckingham for his role as Orcus/Ronnie, and Kaia Helmer for her role as Tilly Evans/Tillius the Paladin.
The Educational Results Partnership and the Institute for Productivity in Education named 19 campuses as Honor Roll schools. Elementary schools include: Alexander, Davidson, Griffin, Holland, Kilpatrick, Pattison, Randolph, Shafer, Stanley, Wilson, and WoodCreek. Junior Highs include: Beck, Beckendorff, Cinco Ranch, McMeans, Seven Lakes, and WoodCreek. High Schools include: Seven Lakes and Tompkins.
British International School Boys’ Varsity Wins Championship The varsity boys’ soccer team won the TAPPS Texas Division II State Soccer Championship title against the Dallas Covenant with a final score of 5 to 2. Over the last six years they have been district champions four times and state champions twice.
Katy ISD Named Best Community for Music Education The National Association of Music Merchants Foundation presented the award to the school district for the 14th year. Katy ISD is one of 4% of school districts across the nation to receive this award.
Taylor High School Quiz Bowl Team The team placed first in the annual NAQT Texas Invitational after 14 rounds of competition. Members William Golden and Richard and Jacob Redland won the Texas History Bowl State Championship.
CRHS Students Win in UIL One Act Play Competition
Studying in The Bahamas Tays Junior High eighth-grader Elizabeth Crumrin and Beck Junior High teacher Kristin Rush were selected for a trip to the Bahamas to study sea turtles as part of the JASON Learning Argonauts Program.
Seven Lakes Student Cast in International Thespian Festival Kendall Swendson was chosen from a field of more than 120 applicants to perform in the International Thespian Festival being held in Lincoln, Nebraska. Swendson will be a part of the crew for the production of We Tell the Story: A Celebration of the Works of Ahrens & Flaherty.
Taylor Family Fun Day and Chili Cookoff The Taylor High School Athletic Booster Club held the family event for the first time. There was kickball, food trucks, live music, a cool car show, and chili, of course. The varsity volleyball team took first place, the freshman volleyball team took second place, and the cheerleaders took third place in the cookoff.
Got School News?
Email editor@katymagazine.com and visit KatyMagazine.com for more up-to-date school news. Please do not send photography protected by copyright.
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KATY MAGAZINE SALUTES ALL OF THE HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES IN THE GREATER KATY AREA Christi Hartwell
Hannah CRHS
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Snapped With Love
Christy Murphy
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Photo by Gabriel Alcosler Anetrius Wallace
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Macy OTHS
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136 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Kim Schaffer
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Gabriel Alcosler
Lesli MCHS
Hope KHS
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Freckleface Photography
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See What Develops
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A SECTION FOR FAMILIES, PHYSICIANS, AND MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
FAMILY COUNSELING • 140 HEALTH BULLETINS • 142 ASK THE EXPERTS • 144 DOCTORS’ SHOWCASE • 146
Anetrius Wallace
Featuring the Donaldson family of Grand Vision
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 139
HEALTH
How to Tell When It’s Time for
Family Counseling If your family can’t seem to get along in any situation, it may be time to seek professional help
K
Written by Wendy Clark
Kathy and Tom argue each time the credit card bill arrives; usually in front of their children, Sam and Laney. They in turn think this is the normal way to have a conversation and often get in trouble at school for speaking to teachers and students in the same manner. Fighting in front of your children, placing blame on each other, and never agreeing on anything are all signs that your family might need counseling. Katy experts weigh in on what often causes conflicts and some of the warning signs of when you should seek help.
140 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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Getting Ahead of the Curve
Kelly Peyton, LPC, RPT, CCPT at West Houston Counseling Center explains that certain life events can be triggers for emotional or communicative discord. “There are many reasons people seek therapy - various life changes like moving, adoptions, new babies, new marriages, and caring for a sick family member are all valid reasons,” Peyton says. Professional sessions can include family members of all ages, and even children as young as infants can benefit from play-based therapy. Additionally, substance abuse, abusive or combative behavior, and mental illness can all be reasons a family might seek therapy. In these more sensitive situations, Peyton recommends automatically considering family counseling to help relatives in learning how to avoid villainizing the person struggling with their serious issues. Recognizing the potential for a certain situation to cause undue stress on family life is often the first positive step toward healing.
Warning Signs
According to the Gottman Institute, a research-based organization dedicated to improving familial relationships, there are four warning signs that communication is breaking down: criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and a refusal to communicate. Dr. Mary Lyles of Katy Family Counseling says that deficiencies in these four areas signify that changes are needed, and that through family counseling, “new ways of communication can be learned to increase emotional and psychological safety for each family member.” Further, she states that “professional help can provide more information and skills on how to improve communication and move toward a loving, emotionally close relationship in which each partner feels respected and loved.”
When to Change Counselors
Coming out of the Shadows
• Talks too much, or not at all
Even well into the 21st century, there is still a stigma in the U.S. surrounding counseling and mental health services. Because of this, it can be hard to get every family member on board with a family therapy program. Dr. Lyles shares, “Using therapy to learn more about yourself and your partner, how automatic thoughts and behaviors play into a relationship, and to improve communication skills can contribute to the well-being of your family.” Peyton sees resistance sometimes in her practice. “Typically, pushback comes from other family members who might not want to be a part of the affected member’s treatment. I like to tell them that therapy gives their family a chance to grow closer to each other, and it provides stability for their family.”
Why Counseling Is a Good Idea
Once you pinpoint factors that indicate your family needs a little professional help, the next step is actually reaching out. There are great benefits to family counseling. “Really, you gain a little emotional intelligence,” Peyton explains. “You learn regulation of emotions and develop a better understanding of yourself and your family’s communication style.” Dr. Lyles states, “Family counseling offers an opportunity to improve interactions between people in close relationships, and can help people understand their own habitual thoughts and behaviors.”
Counting the Cost
Because many counselors don’t take insurance, or insurance companies offer little to no reimbursement for mental health services, finances can play a huge role in determining whether a family will choose to seek help. One suggestion Peyton has for people in this situation is to seek out faith-based counseling services. For example, some churches offer help on a pro bono basis, or have a sliding scale fee that takes into account the family’s income when calculating hourly rates. Local families are encouraged to reach out to area churches and speak with someone involved with social ministry or family enrichment programs, which sometimes also offer parenting or communication classes. It doesn’t matter how you get help for your family, just know that you are headed in the right direction when you take the first step and make the decision to seek help. KM To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
If your counselor... • Is overly confrontational with any member of your family • Encourages blaming of particular family members • Isn’t interested in the goals your family wants to accomplish
• Training and credentials don’t match with your family’s needs • Fees and policies are not communicated by administrative assistant before the first session • Not being sensitive to your beliefs or background • Initiates any type of physical touch without your consent
To find out more about options for family therapy, visit katymagazine.com.
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 141
HEALTH
Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital Expands Heart and Vascular Services Don’t miss these upcoming health-related events
LIVE WITHOUT AFIB
June 24 Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital 23900 Katy Fwy. Cowboy Room 9 - 10:30 a.m. Learn more about the Wolf Mini-Maze and its track record of positive outcomes from speaker Randall K. Wolf, M.D., FACS at this free seminar. Visit memorialhermann.org/ classes-events.
WOMEN’S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
July 12 Houston Methodist West Hospital 18400 Katy Fwy. Medical Office Bldg. 1, #120, Houston 6 - 7:30 p.m. The cancer support group meets the second Wednesday of each month. Meetings are led by trained facilitators from Houston Methodist West Hospital. Refreshments are provided. Email egesprit@houstonmethodist.org or call 832-522-8110.
PREPARED CHILDBIRTH
July 18 Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital 23900 Katy Fwy. Conference Room Tiger A 12 - 6 p.m. The stages of labor, the partner’s role, comfort measures, relaxation, breathing techniques, and anesthesia options are discussed. Partners are encouraged to attend. Register mom only. Cost is $70. Visit memorialhermann. org/classes-events.
Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital recently expanded heart and vascular services with the opening of two new cardiac laboratories that can be used for catheter-based procedures as well as electrophysiology procedures. In the new labs, cardiac electrophysiologists can insert pacemakers and perform ablations to treat irregular heartbeats. Specialists can also now offer procedures like removing life-threatening blood clots or inserting stents to help blood flow through arteries via a catheter.
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus Celebrates Sixth Anniversary
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus has proudly served the Katy area for six years. Currently, West Campus is undergoing a three-year, $50 million expansion project to meet the demand of the rapidly growing west Houston community. Since the expansion began, the hospital has added 10 acute care beds, eight beds dedicated to Texas Children’s Special Isolation Unit, built a dedicated interventional radiology suite, and doubled the surgical capacity resulting in 12 preoperative rooms, 22 postoperative recovery beds, and eight operative suites. In addition, current office space has been converted into additional exam rooms to increase outpatient subspecialty access. The next phase of the project will be to complete the 22-bed pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), which is scheduled to open later this year.
Houston Methodist West Hospital Ranked Top 15 Percent for Patient Experience
Healthgrades recently named more than 400 hospitals to its 2017 Outstanding Patient Experience Award class, highlighting Houston Methodist West’s ability to excel in patient experience. Houston Methodist West is honored to receive this distinction as it is a reflection of its efforts to offer high quality and compassionate care to West Houston, Katy, and the surrounding communities.
This is only a sampling of events offered in Katy. Please visit KatyMagazine.com for more.
AGE-APPROPRIATE SPEECH AND HEARING MILESTONES While children respond differently at different stages of growth and development, hearing problems may be suspected in children who are not responding to sounds or developing their language skills appropriately. Here are some age-related guidelines:
4 to 6 months | Looks or turns toward a new sound, Enjoys toys that make sounds, Begins to repeat sounds
Birth to 3 months | Reacts to loud sounds, Turns head to you when you speak, Smiles in response to certain voices
1 to 2 years | Says more words as each month passes, Understands simple questions and phrases, Chooses things by size (such as big or little)
7 to 12 months | Responds to his or her own name, Makes babbling sounds, Enjoys games like peek-a-boo and pat-a-cake
Source: Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
142 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 143
HEALTH
Ask the Katy Experts Your medical and fitness questions answered by local professionals Rhinoplasty
Nosebleeds
Gallas Plastic Surgery & Vein Center
Memorial Hermann Urgent Care Fulshear
Mennen Gallas, MD, FACS 21300 Provincial Blvd. 281-646-1114 gallasplasticsurgery.com
How do I know if I need rhinoplasty or not? Will it help me breathe better? Rhinoplasty, or surgery to reshape your nose, is a cosmetic procedure performed to address concerns of size, shape, and symmetry. When a septoplasty is performed concurrently, the procedure is referred to as a septo-rhinoplasty which is often performed to straighten a crooked nose and improve airflow. If the shape of your nose causes nasal airway obstruction, a rhinoplasty will help you breathe better. In aesthetic plastic surgery, "need" is relative; if you are unhappy with the size or shape of your nose, a rhinoplasty can help improve your appearance.
Exercising Too Much
ESN Health
Ryan Kobermann, CSCS 22756 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-395-0827 esnhealth.com
Ladan Pourmasiha, DO 5102 FM 1463, #1200 281-574-1104 mhmg.memorialhermann.org
What’s the best way to stop a nosebleed? Methods that can be used to stop a nosebleed include sitting upright to reduce blood pressure in the nasal veins, followed by slightly leaning forward to prevent blood from flowing into the stomach and causing irritation or vomiting. The thumb and index finger should then be placed over the soft part of the nose while firmly compressing for about five to 10 minutes, remembering to continue breathing from the mouth. Once bleeding has stopped, avoid picking or blowing the nose as well as bending the head forward in order to prevent re-bleeding from occurring. If you are unable to stop the bleeding, make sure to contact a health care professional immediately.
My teen plays team sports, but has also been training after hours, should I be concerned about the physical strain on his body? I would not be concerned about the physical strain on his body because the type of exertion you are doing during a game is different than in a workout or practice after hours. The amount of work our bodies can take is much greater than we perceive. However, we have to be smart about the recovery aspects with proper nutrition and hydration. I would keep your athlete properly hydrated and eating healthy meals, and always promote a healthy amount of sleep in order to give his body the proper amount of time to recover.
Special thanks to our panel of Katy Magazine experts - Mennen Gallas, MD, FACS; Ladan Pourmasiha, DO; and Ryan Kobermann, CSCS
If you have a health question for our Katy experts, or would like to be featured as one of our experts, email editor@katymagazine.com. 144 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Visit KatyMagazine.com for Katy jobs, events, news, and more.
Extended Opening/Closing Hours • Before/After Care with Transportation • AdvancED® Accredited Program • Highly Trained Teachers and Directors • Innovative Curriculum & Interactive Technology • Parent Internet Viewing • Age Appropriate Playgrounds
FIND A LOCATION NEAR YOU! Now enrolling children 6 weeks - 12 years!
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SPECIAL SECTION
MEDICAL SERVICES FOR THE KATY AREA Get to know your local health service providers in the Katy Area
The Dentists at Grand Parkway
Houston Spine Institute
thedentistsatgrandparkway.com | 281-395-1700
hspineinstitute.com I 832-321-4076
Whether you need preventive care, cosmetic enhancement, or a completely restored smile, The Dentists at Grand Parkway take the time to do things right. Their office has the latest advances in dental technology, offering patients the very best in dental care! Services include Check Ups & Cleanings, Sealants, Digital X-rays, Crowns, Veneers, Bridges & Partials, Dental Implant Restorations, Porcelain Restorations, and more. Trust your family’s smiles with personalized, compassionate dental care.
Houston Spine Institute offers comprehensive care in nonsurgical and surgical treatment of spinal disorders using the most recent, highly acclaimed advances in the treatment of spinal disorders. Services include Minimal Invasive Spinal Fusion Techniques, Laminectomy & Decompression Surgery, Microdisectomy, Kyphoplasty, General Orthopedics, Fracture Care, and more. They offer patients faster return to their normal activities of pain free living. Book your appointment online now!
Abigail Langan, MD
katy-psychiatry.com I 832-405-4660 Dr. Abigail Langan, MD provides confidential psychiatric assessment and treatment for individuals ages 4 through adult. Her expertise includes diagnosis and treatment of adult and child ADHD, postpartum depression, mood and anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, and eating disorders. She uses a comprehensive approach, including cognitive behavioral therapy and medication management. Guidance in managing behavioral challenges in children is also available. Schedule your appointment today.
146 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
Clay Dental
claydental.net I 281-463-4333 Clay Dental is a pediatric dental office that’s committed to providing their patients with the quality dental care in a playful and pleasant environment. Open Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Clay Dental offers the following services: Preventive Ortho, Conscious Sedation, Restorative Treatments, Sealants, Tooth Colored Fillings, Custom-Made Mouth Guard, Porcelain Veneers, Crowns, Bridge, Deep Cleaning, Root Canal Treatment, and more. Let Clay Dental be your first dental home!
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M ASK TRA ERIT SCUS ABO NSP HOL UT O ORTA ARS UR TION HIPS PRO AND GRA MS
Limitless Potential. Unlimited Possibilities.
Dedicated to fostering a dynamic and engaging environment, Houston Christian provides students with opportunities to stretch their intellectual abilities, develop leadership skills and explore a wide range of interests from athletics to fine arts. We invite you to learn more about what we have to offer, including: An Exceptional Faculty Merit Scholarships Transportation Programs 45 Acre Collegiate-Style Campus Small Class Sizes and Low Student to Faculty Ratios Award-Winning Athletic and Fine Arts Programs A highly accredited, private, nondenominational Christian, college preparatory school, Houston Christian is located at the intersection of I-10 and Beltway 8.
SUMMER TOURS Thursdays at 9:00 AM Register at www.HoustonChristian.org/SUMMERTOURS
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
2700 W Sam Houston Parkway N Houston, TX 77043 www.HoustonChristian.org
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 147
BIZ CHAT
Your Guide to Katy Area Businesses
MedSpa at Villagio Offers 30% Off MedSpa at Villagio’s team of board certified physicians and licensed beauty professionals provide age-defying medical treatments and salon & day spa services for total mind and body rejuvenation. Medical Spa Services include botox, dermal fillers, lipo laser, and more. They also have a full-service hair and nail salon as well as services such as eyebrow microblading, facials, and body and couples massage. Take 30% off your first visit by mentioning their Katy Magazine ad.
The Best Massage in Katy Providing the best massage is something that Elements Massage prides itself on. They believe that the best massage isn’t just a slogan, it’s a commitment. Elements Massage is so committed to being number one in customer satisfaction that they promise to meet or exceed your expectations — or your next massage is on them. Whether it’s a Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Aromatherapy, or Swedish Massage, Elements Massage delivers a truly therapeutic experience. Conveniently located at LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. Gift cards available for purchase online.
medspaatvillagio.com | 281-347-2566
elementsmassage.com | 281-299-3579
Conservatory Style Music Lessons
State-of-the-art Preschool
With over 30 top music instructors, The Conservatory of Music is Katy’s renowned music school and currently teaches over 25,000 private lessons a year. With two Katy locations to serve you, they offer instruction in piano, guitar, bass guitar, violin, viola, cello, double (upright) bass, woodwinds, brasswinds, voice, drum set, and percussion. Saving your family time and money, students can even take multiple instrument lessons on the same day! The Conservatory of Music offers lessons year round, call to schedule a lesson today!
Discovery Schoolhouse is a state-of-the-art preschool learning center that includes large spacious class rooms, controlled access, video cameras, computers, library, splash pad, three large playground areas each equipped with sun shade covers, and the latest playground equipment. They offer a range of educational programs for children from 6 weeks to 5 years old and before and after school care for children 5 to 12 years old. Education is based on the nationally recognized A BEKA curriculum. Also offering Chinese, Spanish, sign language, tumbling, sports, dance, and more. Call today to enroll!
theconservatoryofmusic.org | 832-437-4511
discovery-schoolhouse.com | 281-698-7234
148 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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Your Own Private Play Space Smith Ranch is a beautiful 40 acre play venue located in north Katy. With giant inflatable water slides, paddle boats, petting zoo and horseback riding, it’s become Katy’s preferred party venue. Whether you have an upcoming birthday party, company event, quinceañera, wedding, or other special event, Smith Ranch provides beautiful scenery and a large, affordable space accommodating up to 300 guests. Host your next event at Smith Ranch!
1000 Degrees Offers Over 40 Toppings At 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, you are the chef! Create your own authentic 10” Neapolitan Pizza by choosing from over 30 fresh and delicious toppings for one low price. They also offer over 10 classic favorites, priced from $7.95 and up. Enjoy fresh, authentic artisan pizza with unlimited possible combinations. Choose your sauce, your crust, your cheese, veggies, meat and more. Create your own pizza masterpiece today.
smithranchkaty.com | 281-371-3318
1000degreespizza.com | 281-574-1087
High Quality Cleaning Service
Spanish Immersion Preschool
The way to be clean starts with Maids Ready! All supplies and equipment are provided, and they serve offices and homes of all sizes. Family owned and operated, Maids Ready boasts an all-professional crew with references available. Whether you need weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, same-day, or emergency service, Maids Ready can cater to your cleaning needs with no contracts or hidden fees. Additional new services include Carpet & Upholstery, Tile Cleaning, Pressure Washing, Air Duct Cleaning, Dryer Vent Cleaning, and more. Call Maids Ready today for a free quote.
Get a head start on your child’s future in this unique Spanish Immersion preschool! Spanish Learning Castle provides Spanish Language and Cultural Immersion classes for children 18 months to 5 years old. They also offer Before & After School Care, Summer Camps, and Saturday classes from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm for children ages 4 to 8 years old. Immersed in the Spanish language through music, games, conversation, and love, your child will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the Spanish language and culture. Call Spanish Learning Castle now to schedule your tour.
maidsready.com | 281-866-1087
spanishlearningcastle.com | 832-437-6479
To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email sales@katymagazine.com
KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017 • 149
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KATY RESOURCE GUIDE FINISHING & CHARM SCHOOLS
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To find an advertiser, please refer to the corresponding page numbers. 1000 Degrees Pizza A Painting Fiesta Agave Rio Ageless Envy Retreats Arthur Murray Dance Center B & B Locksmiths Barcelona Sporting Goods Be Unique Becky’s Academy of Dance Belhaven University BH Hair Studio Big Chuck’s Sprinklers BridgePoint Bible Church British Intl. School of Houston British Private Prep Schools Camp Bow Wow Katy Cane Island Centerra Ranch Montessori School Central Baptist Church Chick-fil-A Cinco, Mason, Katy Green Cinco Ranch Behavioral Health Cinco Ranch Dental Circle Lake Ranch Clay Dental College Nannies + Tutors Connolly Dance Arts Conservatory of Music, The Currie, William, MD - MCT Cypress Custom Pools Dagley Insurance & Financial Services Delaney at Parkway Lakes, The Dentists at Grand Parkway, The Discovery Schoolhouse Eagle’s Trace El Asador Elan 99 West Elements Massage Elevation Burger Elite Home Cleanup Elite Women’s Care Center ESN Health Fieldstone Financial Firethorne Foundations Academy Fulshear Family Medicine Gallas Plastic Surgery & Vein Center Goddard School, The Grand Vision Hand & Plastic Surgery Center of Katy Haven at Highland Knolls Higher Dimension Church Houston Christian High School Houston Home Improvement Houston Methodist West Hospital
47 69 45 118 151 35 47 145 155 154 147 105 113 131 12 118 135 135 19 39 101 133 89 57 151 75 89 158 20 153 3 8 154 95 69 51 61 61 117 155 31 121 163 69 75 2 117 4 151 117 105 147 61 6&7
Houston Spine Institute 158 James Coney Island 133 Katy Carpets ETC. 154 Katy Kids Dentist 19 Katy Kips Gymnastics Club 147 Katy Learning Center, Inc. 143 Katy Vision Center 40 Katy’s Early Childhood Enrichment Center 89 Kiddie Academy 57 Kids ‘R’ Kids 145 Kingsland Baptist Church 95 LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 162 Langan, Abigail, MD 119 Leafology Tea Lounge 95 Maids Ready 143 Marquis, Jorge, DDS 15 McCullagh, Kelly Anne, MD - MCT 143 MedSpa at Villagio 77 Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital 164 Miguel Lawn & Landscaping 39 Montessori Kids Universe 35 Monty Ballard YMCA & YMCA Katy Main St. 51 Oak Park - Resort Lifestyle Communities 65 Overture Sugar Land 159 Peli Peli 26 Personal Touch Landscape, Inc. 158 Peter Chang 25 Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers of Katy 161 Primrose Schools of Katy 93 Reinaldo Medina Photography 75 Right Medical Billing 31 Rite Choice Pharmacy 57 SKS Surgical Group, PA 119 Smallcakes Cupcakery & Creamery 51 Smith Ranch 121 Solis Mammography 159 Spanish Learning Castle 105 Splashway Waterpark & Campgrounds 16 Sunset Pools, Inc. 122 Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus 10 Texas State Optical 121 Tiger Rock Martial Arts 113 Tilt Studio 47 TopFlight Dance Center 135 Town & Country Family Physicians 55 Travers & Travers 134 Ultra Group, Inc. 118 Ultra White Dental, PLLC 113 United Chiropractic 79 Watercrest at Katy 93 Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy 41 Westrock Coffee Company 74 Whitsett Vision Group 21 Your Total Foot Care Specialist 138
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160 • KATY MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2017
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LACenterrA At CInCO rAnCH
4th of July Celebration ! Tuesday, July 4th
4:30 - 9:30 PM
Presented by
West Campus
LACenterrA.COM
SUMMER ADVENTURES AWAIT
in Firethorne.
Summer fun is here, so live it up in your dream home in Firethorne! Enjoy incredible amenities like our Resort Style Pools and Competitive Swim Center, Parks and Playgrounds, and so much more! Stop by today and discover why summer is more fun in Firethorne!
Kindle Your Spirit.
Homes from the $250s to $800s | FM 1463 of f of I-10 | Visit w w w.f irethorne.info ASHTON WOODS | COVENTRY | HIGHLAND | PERRY | PLANTATION | RAVENNA | SARATOGA Realtors welcome. No warranty or representation of intended use, design or proposed improvements are made herein. All plans for land or facilities are subject to change without notice. Nothing presented in this advertisement shall obligate the owner, or any other entity, public or private, to construct facilities or develop land as shown. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of Equal Housing Opportunity in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex or national origin.
QUALITY CARE FOR WOMEN, DELIVERED DAILY IN KATY. At Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital, our family-centered approach focuses on making your childbirth experience as memorable and positive as possible. From the time you learn you are pregnant until your child is born, you and your baby benefit from specialized medical care delivered by our highly skilled affiliated physicians and nurses. Our Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit provides advanced care for preemies and babies with special medical needs. And we provide the added reassurance of immediate access to a higher level of care when needed at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center. To schedule a tour, register for a childbirth education class or obtain a physician referral call 713.222.CARE.
memorialhermann.org 23900 Katy Freeway Katy, TX 77494