Colonies November 2011

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID KATY, TX. PERMIT #137

For Residents of Bradford Colony, Charlestown Colony, Concord Colony, Georgetown Colony One, Georgetown Colony Two, Jamestown Colony, Langham Creek Colony, and Yorktown Colony

November 2011 Bradford Colony 1 & 2 (BC1&2) DEED RESTRICTIONS Bradford Colony should be proud of their community. A primary role of the Homeowners Association is to insure the rules and restrictions are respected in ways that will continue to enhance the community. The HOA can only accomplish this with the help of the residents.

When you receive a letter regarding a deed restriction violation from Esquire Community Management, do you know how to respond? Maybe you disagree that there is a violation or you are not sure how to proceed in resolving the issue. Perhaps a resolution will cause a financial hardship due to personal circumstances that HOA is not aware of. There are many possible scenarios, but there is one fact; the violation will not be withdrawn, if action is not taken by the homeowner to communicate to the HOA. Continuing to fail to communicate regarding violation will eventually result in additional legal fees. The HOA will take legal action regarding the deed restriction violation. It is very important that you respond to deed restriction violation in a very prompt manner by taking steps by communicating with the Esquire Community Management at 281-444-9250 regarding your specific situation.

(BC1&2) TRASH CANS Trash cans should not be left out in front of your house. That is not a welcoming sight for you or your guests. Let’s save our community money by putting them in the back yard and thus not having to spend money on sending reminder letters. Be a good neighbor to your neighbor.

Bradford Colony Section 3

www.bcs3.org (BCS3) HAPPY HOLIDAYS / LET’S BE CAREFUL AND ALERT It is hard to imagine but 2011 is drawing to a close and the holidays are just around the corner. The Board would like to wish everyone a Happy Holiday season over the next couple of months.

As in past years, the Board will be voting on the best Christmas decorations in the neighborhood. This voting will take place the Sunday before Christmas. It is expected that the vote will be close based on past year’s experiences.

The Board is also considering purchasing some new holiday decorations for the entranceway and possibly the light poles in BCS3. The ones we presently have are 6-8 years old and are in pretty bad shape.

Last but not least, everyone is asked to be extra careful as you drive around the neighborhood over the next few months. At last estimate, there are over 100 children living in our neighborhood and shorter days plus wet streets due to winter rains (hopefully) will make it more difficult to see these little ones as they play outside. Please observe the posted 20 MPH speed limits, as well as the stop signs around the neighborhood to help protect our children.

And as always, the Board encourages everyone to be alert to any possible criminal activity that may take place in BCS3. The best security is our neighbors watching out for one another. Let’s keep it up over the holidays!

(BCS3) NEW DIRECTOR APPOINTED TO FILL OPEN POSITION Three highly qualified residents submitted their names to the Board as candidates to fill the open Director position that had been created by the recent resignation of the original Director. At the September meeting, the Board selected Irma Poirier to fill this open Director position.

Be Thankful, Happy Thanksgiving!

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The Board is looking forward to working with Irma in the coming months as she brings her strengths and skill set to bear on various neighborhood issues.

As mentioned in last month’s newsletter, there was no general election for this open position since the HOA Bylaws stipulate that any open Board position that takes place during an ongoing term is filled by the Board of Directors and not by a general election by the residents.

It is never too early for residents to consider running for the Board.

Looking ahead to May 2012, there will be one Director position (the one presently filled by Maria Torres) up for general election.

(BCS3) NEW TEXAS LEGISLATION FOR HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS The Texas senate has passed multiple legislation over the past session that directly impacts Homeowner Associations (HOA’s). A printout of these new guidelines total up to a packet that is almost 2 inches thick!

This new legislation addresses such items as rain water barrels, flag poles, religious symbols, Board meeting notices, collection efforts, records access and restoration, voting privileges and many other issues.

The Board is working with ACMP to update the Association paperwork to incorporate this new legislation. To be in compliance the Texas legislation and develop an appropriate series of guidelines and amendments to our governing documents, the Board will have to incur some legal expenses to achieve the proper goals. This is needed to protect both the Board, as well as the residents from lawsuits and other legal action in the future.

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(BCS3) FALL NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE FOLLOW UP

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The Board would like to thank everyone who participated in the October 15th garage sale. Hopefully, all the participants achieved their goals of making a little extra money while getting rid of items that were no longer of use to them.

The Board would also like to extend its thanks to the anonymous resident who paid for putting ads in the Houston Chronicle and Northwest Houston Greensheet advertizing this event.

The next neighborhood garage sale will be in the spring of 2012.

In addition, individual residents can have up to two garage sales on their own during any year. All one has to do is contact the Board prior to having their individual sales.

(BCS3) HORSEPEN BAYOU DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS As many of you have noticed, there has been work ongoing since August along Horsepen Bayou. This is most obvious as you cross the bayou along West Little York Road.

The Harris County Flood Control District is widening the channel along parts of the bayou from its headwaters north of BCS3 down the where it drains into the main feeder system that leads to the Addicks Reservoir. This work will allow for more effective water flow and less chance of flooding in our area.

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November 2011

2012 BCS3 ASSESSMENT

(BCS3) NEW HOMEOWNERS

By the time you receive this Newsletter, all residents should have also received their 2012 Association dues assessment billing. This billing will include a letter from the Board that will address the financial state of the HOA in detail, as well as the logic behind the 2012 budget and related assessment.

As of mid October, there are at least two new homeowners in the neighborhood - both on Horsepen Bayou Drive. Let’s all welcome these new neighbors to the area and work to maintain the communications and informal security efforts that have evolved over the years in our neighborhood.

Although the annual goal is be keep the budget as low as possible, the Board’s goal for 2012 was to try to be “extra lean” for the upcoming year in an effort to keep the assessment as low as possible during these difficult financial times.

On a related property value issue, all the appraisal and tax information for any property in the area can be accessed on the free Harris County Appraisal District (www.HCAD.org) website.

This site is the source of some very important information plus can be used to file tax appraisal protests.

The Board understands that this annual bill can be overlooked during the end of the year / holiday season period. All residents are encouraged to incorporate the payment of this bill into their upcoming budgets so as to not create a delinquency situation that will only add costs (e.g. interest, late fees, etc.) to the total.

Also remember that it is possible to set up a payment plan to handle the 2012 Assessment. If you are interested in this option, please contact our management company (ACMP) at 281-855-9867 and talk to our agent (Theodora Daly) about setting up such a plan.

(BCS3) YARD OF THE MONTH/ LANDSCAPING / YARD RESTORATION / ESPLANADES The Yard of Month award will be suspended over the cooler months until April 2012.

The drought that we have been experiencing has had a massive and brutal impact on the yards in our neighborhood. Despite these damaging conditions, the residents need to be congratulated for working as hard as they have to try to preserve their landscaping and keep their bushes and trees watered to try to save them from being negatively impacted. As a result of the drought conditions that we have experienced, all of us have had some sort of damage to our lawns and bushes. All residents are encouraged to work over the cooler months to get their yards back into shape so as to maintain both your individual, as well as our neighborhood property values.

As you can see, the esplanades at the entrance to the neighborhood have taken a severe beating. The Board is working with the landscaping company (Venture) to adjust the sprinkler system in attempts to optimize coverage across these two areas. The crepe myrtles are taking the biggest hit this season and hopefully, the damage to these trees will be minimal.

Winter bedding plants should be planted, which will hopefully benefit from the improved sprinkler system settings and related areal expansion.

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(BCS3) DEED RESTRICTION VIOLATIONS / INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROCESS The management company (ACMP) makes two inspections per month through the neighborhood for the purpose of identifying various deed restriction violation (DRV) issues. These inspections are part of our contract agreement with ACMP. It should be noted, however, that mistakes sometimes happen with respect to the identification of DRV issues.

Over the past couple of weeks, several residents have contacted the Board to inquire about a DRV letter that did not make sense as to their property. The Board then worked with the management company to get this issue corrected, suspended or dropped depending in the situation.

If you receive a DRV letter that you do not agree with, either contact a Board member (contact information on inside back cover of this newsletter) or call ACMP (281-855-9867) and talk to our representative (Theodora Daly) about the matter in question.

Do not ignore DRV letters. The HOA has to pay for each DRV letter and these costs add up. Legitimate DRV’s that are ignored can evolve into situations where additional actions need to be initiated (at a cost to the homeowner in question).

We would like to thank all the residents who put in the time and effort to take care of their homes and yards. It is you - the residents - that are the ultimate control on impacting our property values. Let’s keep up the good work!

(BCS3) STREET LIGHT OUTAGES To report a street light outage or request a repair to a street light, you will need to get the six digit number of the street light (it is normally located on the side of the pole facing the street) You

The Colonies

November 2011

will also need the approximate address of the street light (e.g. house near the pole). Then click on this link (www.centerpointenergy.com/ outage) to fill out the short report form to get the light fixed.

(BCS3) WEBSITE REMINDER

The website for our neighborhood is now www.bcs3.org. This is a totally new and revamped website from the original one that was developed back in 2003-2004. The cost to maintain this site is less than $50 per year since we have a Board member (Andy Nguyen) who is adept at updating and working with this type of system.

Please take the time to check into this new website - and feel free to contact any Board member with suggestions and comments pertaining to this site.

(BCS3) TRASH AND RECYCLING CONTAINER REMINDER The Board asks that all residents remember to put their trash and recycling containers up after collection days. These items should be stored where they cannot be seen from the street. Leaving these items in plain sight is an eyesore that detracts from how our neighborhood looks.

Thanks to everyone who have continually done a great job in following these guidelines.

(BCS3) CONTACT THE BOARD As is the case with everything in our small neighborhood, every resident should feel free to contact any Board member as to any issue or question that you have about BCS3. Contact information for all the Board members is located on the inside back cover of this publication.

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Charlestown Colony (ChC) Time to Decorate!

We are looking for a few volunteers to help decorate the Neighborhood sign for the upcoming holiday season. Proposed date is the Saturday after Thanksgiving around noon (weather permitting). With many hands, it won’t take long. If you see us out there, feel free to stop by and help.

(ChC) Charlestown Colony Annual Homeowners’ Meeting

The annual Charlestown Colony was held October 5th. What an informative meeting! We all owe a big thanks to our board members. They do a lot of work behind the scenes that saves all of us money. We have one of the lowest homeowner’s dues thanks to these wonderful people. There was a lot of open discussion.

Read on for details.

One neighbor asked about mosquito spraying. Do you have mosquitoes also? With our dryer than normal weather, no one could remember seeing a mosquito spray truck through the area. For this issue, the squeaky wheel gets attention. Homeowners need to call the County Switch Board at 713-755-5000 and request mosquito spraying. This is also the number to call for issues related to the bayou or county streets. This is a general number for the switch board. Specifically for mosquitoes you can call 713-440-4800. The switchboard can also connect you to animal control (281-999-3191), Flood control (713-684-4000) and many other county services. For a list, check out www.cechouston.org/ resourceguide/county.html. Specifically for mosquitoes, check out www.hcphes.org/hcmosquitoctrl.

A reminder that we are now under mild water restrictions. Everyone should have gotten a card in the mail to this effect in October.

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November 2011

Outdoor water usage, including but not limited to lawn or garden watering, car washing, even widow washing, is restricted based on your address. Odd numbered street addresses should water on Tuesday and Saturday. Even number street addresses should water on Wednesday and Sunday. Be sure to fix any leaks to sprinkler systems or other plumbing. Remember you need to water plants, trees and the concrete slab for your home, but be wise about the time of day you water and don’t water so much that water runs down the street. Please conserve indoor water use by only running washing machines and dishwashers when they are full. Take shorter showers; don’t let water run while brushing teeth, fix any indoor dripping faucets or leaky flapper valves in toilets. For more information, see www.hcmud102.com/documents/2011/Drought%20-%20 Water%20Restrictions%20Notification%20093011.pdf I imagine most of us have noticed the water leak in the sprinkler in the esplanade by the first stop sign as you enter the neighborhood.

Our board has been getting bids on fixing this leak. There are some other issues with the sprinkler system that need updating as well.

Our board is seeking a competitive bid, spending the association funds as carefully as they would their own. The leak will soon be fixed. The updating will take a while longer.

Several of the bulbs in the lights below the trees along the entrance have gone out will be replaced. Our board is looking at alternative lawn service contractors who will take a little more care as they work the common areas of the neighborhood.

One big project is the brick fence along the west side of the entrance to the neighborhood. The fence has started to bow in places and in other places you can almost see through it. It is in danger of falling.

This is a safety hazard that will have to be addressed in the next year. This will be a very expensive project. Our board is seeking bids on this project also. You may remember the brick fence on the east side was replaced a few years ago.

Expensive projects require planning and our neighborhood does have reserve funds for important projects that have to be completed.

Just like any home, our neighborhood does have regular bills, as well as big projects. Every neighbor needs to do their part by planning for and paying the neighborhood dues. Without this influx of funds, the neighborhood cannot pay bills or plan for necessary projects. When association dues are not paid, letters are sent to the homeowners.

There is a first notice and a second notice. Unless the homeowner contacts SCS Management Company, the notification process can escalate to a certified letter and even involve attorneys. The association can ultimately put a lien against the home for funds owed.

Remember that all of these notifications add to the total amount a homeowner owes the association. The homeowner ultimately will pay back all funds the association spends to collect dues.

SCS Management Company will work with any homeowner to create a payment plan schedule that will work within their budget.

Our service manager at SCS Management Company is DebbieKay. She is our primary liaison for all general information and questions about the Association, as well as services funded by the assessment.

Her direct line is 281-500-7106. You can call her directly and not get shuffled around in the management company phone system.

Currently about 17% of the homes have not paid their dues for 2011. The bills for 2012 will be mailed in November with payment (or setting up payment plans) due in January of 2012. If you are having difficulty with the assessment, please take a moment and talk with DebbieKay. Not working with the Management Company is like ignoring a traffic offence. It is better to take care of this now before it has more serious consequences later.

The board is looking at some smaller projects to improve our park area. The trashcans at the park will be replaced over the winter; this includes the cans and the wooden structures holding them. The concrete table is cracked and will be removed.

The board sends a hearty THANK You to all homeowners who are working hard to keep up their homes. Our weather in 2011 has

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The Colonies

November 2011

been to both extremes; an exceptionally cold winter and even more dramatically hot summer. Much of what the winter cold weakened without killing has been killed by the heat. The board understands that homeowners will take care of dead landscaping as soon as they can. They will restrict Association letters about landscaping as much as possible. Should you receive such a letter, please follow the instructions on the letter and contact SCS Management Company.

Our deed restriction coordinator at SCS Management is Laurie, 281-500-7110.

Several residents asked about the construction along Horsepen Creek. This is a Harris County Flood Control District maintenance project. The project will restore a 3.25 mile section of the creek from State Hwy. 6 to the Addicks Reservoir to its original carrying capacity, although not necessarily its original geometry. The project includes removal of sediment that has accumulated over the years. There will also be improvements to the banks along the creek to reduce erosion, which will reduce the sediment in the creek caused by erosion. In addition, the HCFC District plans to complete a 150-acre storm water detention basin on Horsepen Creek near Barker-Cypress and West roads that is designed to provide flood damage reduction to areas downstream. For the complete article, visit the Harris County Flood Control District website at: www.hcfcd.org/news/2011-0823.html.

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Another issue that keeps coming up is fences. Shared fences are a neighbor-to-neighbor issue; not a homeowners association issue.

Shared fences are common property. Repairs and replacing fences is a shared responsibility of the homeowners, which border the fence.

Ownership of the fence is not based on which way the pickets face.

If you have a shared fence that needs repair or replacement, talk to your neighbor. See if they are willing or financially able to help with the cost of replacing the fence. The only involvement of the homeowners association with regards to shared fences is the requirement of architectural approval for the replacement to be sure height and material guidelines are followed.

Neighbors also commented about the increase in door-to-door solicitations. There are “No Soliciting” signs posted at both entrances to our subdivision. You can call the sheriff (713-221-6000) and they will ask the solicitors to move along.

(ChC) Yard of the Month

October is the last Yard of the Month award for the year. So many of our neighbors really work hard at maintaining their yards and homes, it is difficult to choose one house each month. We really have a good looking subdivision. This month’s selection goes to our neighbors at 14315 S. Stoneygrove Loop. This yard that has been good, bad and good again. This yard was hard hit by chinch bugs during the heat of the summer but with proper treatment to kill the bugs and some timely fall fertilizer and rain, has bounced back to a beautiful lush green lawn. This should be an inspiration to all of us struggling with dying lawns. With the right care, the lawn will recover. Walk by after a rain and see all the yellow flowers that bloom around the pine tree.

Do you enjoy reading the yard of the month? Do you walk or jog the neighborhood? Interested in being a Yard of the Month volunteer?

Contact a board member. Many hands make light work. Yard of the month will return in March.

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(ChC) Timely Tips for November Gardeners

Now that the weather is cooler, it is comfortable to go out into the yard. This is a great time to plant colorful flowers to brighten up the dull days of winter. Pansies are the most popular flower for winter color. The “Matrix” pansy is a great performer in our geographic zone. This particular pansy will not “stretch” during bouts of warm temperatures and is bred to grow out, not up. This compact variety of pansies offers shorter, sturdier stems to support large colorful blooms.

Other cool weather tolerant annuals are dianthus (aka pinks), snapdragons, cyclamen, violas and alyssum. Ornamental cabbage and kale provide interesting greens and texture in the landscaping.

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Concord Colony

You can also plant colorful flowers in containers. Use fresh potting soil with plant food. Keep them watered as necessary and remove faded flowers to encourage repeat blooming. If the flowers are in containers you can move them to protected areas should we have another winter like last year!

(ChC) More news and notes

Our annual holiday decoration contest will be judged between December 16th and 20th. We look forward to all the beautiful decorations around our neighborhood.

Remember to collect box-tops for Horne Elementary. You can drop them off at the school or give them to any elementary student’s parent. Every box-top is worth 10 cents to the school. Not sure what these are? Check out www.boxtops4education.com/.

There will be NO TRASH PICK-UP on Thanksgiving Day or the Friday after. Trash pick-up is only on Monday or Thursday. Trash will be picked up Monday, November 28th. Please remember not to put your trash cans out before Sunday night and to put trash cans back out of sight Monday evening. Otherwise you might get a letter from the association.

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(CC) YARD OF THE MONTH

Many of our homeowners take such pride in the appearance and upkeep of their yards and we are so excited to recognize the best of the best for their efforts. Each month a resident will receive a “Yard of the Month” recognition. In addition to a sign placed in their yard, the winning residence will receive a $50 gift card from Home Depot.

The winner for October was Bobby & Olivia Hernandez at 15003 Britterige Street. CONGRATULATIONS!!!! It’s been a tough drought season this year but your yard is beautiful!!!

A new winner will be declared for November and for the month of December, we will have a special Holiday Decorating Contest. So it is not too early to start thinking about your festive displays now!!

( CC) HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION MEETINGS

Traditionally, the meetings are held the second Tuesday of every month at the Municipal Utility District building, 15300 Falmouth, at 7 pm. Look for signs with meeting information posted at our neighborhood entrances as the time nears. See our new Facebook page for a map to the meeting location.

(CC) CONCORD COLONY’S NEW FACEBOOK PAGE

Check out our new neighborhood Facebook page! In Facebook, there are two different options to access the page. If you are logged into your Facebook account simply go to www.facebook. com/ConcordColony77084 or you may search for ‘Concord Colony’ and select the ‘Concord Colony Organization’ page. Either way, click ‘Like’ to begin receiving notifications when we

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November 2011

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We wish everyone a very Happy & Safe Thanksgiving!!!

Georgetown Colony I Please submit any concerns you have along with any deed restrictions questions to our email: georgetowncolony@yahoo.com.

(GCPOA1) Thanks!!!

A big “Thank You” to Lydia Rogers for coordinating “National Night Out.” It was a huge success with many neighbors attending to enjoyed pizza, hot dogs and desserts but most of all…many of us got to meet neighbors. We also had visit from the Sherriff department to award us with a National Night Out certificate for our participation.

(GCPOA1) Security Update

Georgetown Colony neighborhood has been experiencing an increase of criminal activity. (a) Attempted midnight break-in of a home on North Magazine Circle.

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(b) Tires slashed during the night on a car in the driveway on North Magazine Circle. (c) Suspicious cars driving in cul de sac’s in the middle of the night. (d) Night time attempt of theft of vehicle on Georgetown Colony. (e) Night time theft and damage to vehicle in a driveway on Edisto Ct. (f) Attempted day time theft of equipment in driveway of Ft. Sumter. (g) Afternoon break in and theft of property from home on Old Tybee.

To combat the problems, we have recently installed security cameras at the W. Little York entrance to our community. Images from those cameras (including license plates) are stored. They are available on the internet to members of the Georgetown Colony Board of Directors. We will share those images with the Harris County Sheriff’s Department.

By doing so, it will assist them in identifying perpetrators of crimes.

Available funds permitting, we anticipate adding more cameras at other neighborhood locations early in the 2012 fiscal year.

If you hear or see anything, please call the Sheriff’s Department 713-221-6000. You can remain anonymous.

Please submit any concerns to our email georgetowncolony@ yahoo.com.

(GCPOA1) Security and Safety

We offer these suggestions for making your home more secure and safe.

1) Leave your front porch light on all night long.

2) Remove or trim back plants or shrubbery that obscures front door or windows.

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3) Install additional security lights on both sides of garage doors; leave porch light on at night.

4) Be prepared to defend the interior of your home against unwanted intruders.

Additionally…cannot stress enough - report any suspicious activity to the Sheriff’s Department (Phone number 713-221-6000.

(GCPOA1) Landscaping

The drought has been brutal to our yards throughout the neighborhood. Please continue to maintain your yards by removing any dead trees and dead bushes. Maintain your yard to keep our subdivision from looking unattractive.

(GCPOA1) Holidays

The Holidays are approaching - Kwanzaa, Thanksgiving, Hanukah and Christmas. Coming up… we will be having a Holiday Decorating contest. So get ready to get in holiday spirit and decorate.

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(GCPOA1) How to make a deed restriction violation complaint

Any resident may file a complaint in either of two ways: • Simply make a phone call to SCS Mgmt., www.scsmgmt.com at 281-463-1777.

• Email the board members at georgetowncolony@yahoo.com.

There is a process we follow that monitors deed restriction violations and enforces corrective actions on behalf of the homeowners in GC I & II.

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(JC) VISIT US ON THE WEB

Questions about the neighborhood? You can probably find the answer on the Jamestown Colony website, www.jamestowncolony.com.

(JC) Jamestown also has a Facebook page!

Go to the Search function and type in “Jamestown Colony.” Click JOIN and you’ll be alerted when we post (very infrequent) notices about the neighborhood, including crime alerts for the neighborhood.

(JC) YARDS OF THE MONTH

The winners of the September 2011 Yards of the Month were: • Section 1 - No winner in September or October (it’s a long story) • Section 2 - John & Tricia Underwood, 6518 Laurel Run • Section 3 - September - no winner; October winner - David & Tambela Franklin, 14715 Concord Grove.

No further yards of the month will be awarded this year. Monthly winners will start being awarded again in April 2012.

(JC) HOLIDAYS & HOLIDAY DECORATIONS

The holiday season is upon us. As we contemplate the next 2 months of celebration, remember to, above all, keep yourself and your family safe and warm. Cherish your family & friend time.

Holiday decorations will be judged the 3rd weekend in December.

Winners awarded in each section, will receive home improvement gift cards.

(JC) NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

The folks in Section 2 had a splendid night to meet & munch on pizza as they celebrated the 2011 (Texas) National Night out on October 4th. The folks in Sections 1 and 3 weren’t so lucky when they chose

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The Colonies

November 2011

SOCA MECHANICAL SERVICES Systems of Conditioned Air

Residential & Commercial

AIR CONDITIONING and HEATING

Sales • Service • Installation Upgrade & Retrofit • Cash Discount on all Installations • Free Estimate on Equipment Replacement TACL B017234C Licensed & Insured

281-550-0223

www.socamechanical.com to celebrate on October 8th; however, since their celebration was rained out. On the other hand, we did get the rain, so it was still a pretty good deal!

And a few lucky residents got whole pizzas instead of just a couple of slices, as Directors struggled to get everything under cover before it was soaked.

Be sure to put the 2012 event on your calendar as soon as the date is announced (likely the first week in October).

(JC) HOA ASSESSMENTS DUE SOON

Remember that your homeowner assessment is due January 1st and begins to accrue late fees and penalties after January 31st. You can either send a check to ACMP based on the statement that will be sent to you this month or you can pay online at www.jamestowncolony.com (if you pay online, you are responsible for any service fees for your online payment). If you can’t pay the entire assessment at one time, contact ACMP at 281-855-9867 to arrange a payment plan. As long as you make such arrangements and stick to the payment plan, you won’t be assessed penalties and late fees. Remember that your assessment will be larger this year and next till we get the fence paid off. And if you want to start paying off your assessment this year, to get a jump on 2012, contact ACMP to make the necessary arrangements.

(JC) CURB SURVEY

We’re still trying to assemble another list of broken curbs to send to the County, which it is obligated to fix. Please send the locations of cracked, displaced or broken curbing to Donna Hackemack Bryant at schpinna@yahoo.com. Put JAMESTOWN in the subject line. However, please note that driveways (and the lips on either side of your driveways) are YOUR responsibility, as are any repairs associated with drains or holes cut through the curb.

(JC) SPRING COMMUNITY EVENTS

The 5th Annual Jamestown Community Garage Sale is tentatively being planned for March 17, 2012, the Saturday at the end of the week of Cy-Fair ISD’s Spring Break. Start cleaning out your closets and garages. The usual signs and newspaper ads will be placed well in advance to ensure a big turnout by potential buyers.

The tentative date for the 2012 Easter Egg Hunt in the Section 1 park is March 31st. The final date will be announced early next year.

(JC) EASY WAY TO REPORT STREET LIGHT OUTAGES

Instead of waiting for the CenterPoint Energy Business Office to open, report the burned out street lights while you’re thinking of it. Go to www.centerpointenergy. com/services/electricity/residential/reportastreetlightoutage and fill in the information. Easy peasy. Remember, the HOA pays for these lights whether they’re burning or not, so you might as well have them burning.

JAY CONSTRUCTION - Home Repair & Remodeling • Painting • Sheetrock • Flooring • Bathrooms

• Stair Remodeling • Siding • Custom Cabinets • Roofing

• Patios • Additions • Framing

281-650-0082 jayconstruction02@yahoo.com

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November 2011

ALEXIS

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713-367-5477 713-240-7653

(JC) GREEN TIPS

1. Safe disposal of old drugs - Keeping old prescriptions around is dangerous for your family or pets. And it’s unsafe to flush drugs down the drain or toilet or to throw them in the trash; you can create serious problems if drugs leach into the water supply or hit the Gulf.

But now Walgreen’s and Kroger will sell you a nice little envelope for about $3 that will allow you to mail off multiple prescriptions or supplements for safe disposal. Take advantage!

2. Getting rid of rats & mice - Yechhh. Mice and rats are well known for chewing through electrical wires (which can start fires and create structural problems) and their urine and droppings can pose a very serious hazard to your family’s health. So, poison ‘em, right?

WRONG. Most rat & mice killer products you buy in the supermarket contain really nasty ingredients like Warfarin, Bromadioline or Brodifacoum, which can cause the beasts to die horrible deaths through internal bleeding that can last anywhere from 3-10 days. And while they’re dying from the poison, they can be eaten by your pets, who can then ALSO be poisoned. They can also become resistant to these poisons. Rat & mice killers are deadly in aquatic environments too, so never flush old poison down the drain (in fact, there are only a couple of things you should be flushing down your toilet and you already know what they are). So how to keep the critters out of your home or get rid of them? Well, here are a few tips: • Rat & mice killer products containing Calciferol (vitamin D), cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), and ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) are less likely to cause secondary poisoning of other animals, but it’s still deadly to many animals if consumed, so treat it with the same care as you would any other poison and placed it in tamper-proof bait stations.

• Mice and rats often enter our homes through the expansion joints in our brick homes. Use crumpled-up chicken wire to shove in the joints (the chicken wire still allows the brick to expand; when the brick contracts, it leaves a bit of a gap, but the wire ends discourage rodents from entering).

• Seal all gaps leading into your home; steel or copper wool and scourers are useful in tricky places.

• If you compost, get your compost bin off the ground and drill small holes in the base so moisture can still drain away. Avoid putting food scraps into a compost bin; a worm farm is a better option.

• Keep your yard as clear as possible of piles of debris and regularly check under logs and rocks for signs of nesting. Disturbing the area regularly will discourage rodents from establishing themselves and you can also get rid of snails and slugs.

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• Remove fallen fruit from under trees.

• Try to keep bird feeders as far away from the house as possible and in the open with nothing that could be used as a rodent hideout nearby.

• Don’t leave pet food out for long periods, particularly overnight.

• Speak to your local pest control company about alternative trapping and repelling methods, such as ultrasound and electric zappers.

• If you use snap traps, peanut butter is a great bait. You can also put the trap inside a paper bag so you don’t need to handle the animal once it’s been trapped. Be sure to place the traps where you know other small animals won’t get to them. The scent of a dead mouse or rat will repel other rodents from successful snap traps, so you have to buy a new trap each time; if you choose this method, buy the ones made of wood, not plastic.

• It’s said that Jack Russell or rat terrier dogs are better ratters than cats, so consider a visit to a pet adoption facility.

Yorktown Colony (YTC) quarterly meeting

There will be the Quarterly Homeowners meeting on Thursday, November 17th at 7:00 PM, at the Municipal Utility District Building at 15300 Falmouth. Please call any Board Member if you need directions to the meeting. PLEASE TRY TO ATTEND AND SUPPORT OUR SUBDIVISION! WE WANT YOUR IMPUT!

(YTC) CHRISTMAS LIGHTS DECORATING JUDGING

Don’t forget to decorate by Saturday, December 17th, when the judging will take place for the Christmas Lights decorations for your yard and home. Please have your lights turned on that night so we can see them to judge. There will be 3 prizes of $50 per household for a gift certificate from Houston Garden Centers. I will contact you in January (2012) to let you know who won!

(YTC) Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving to all from your Yorktown Colony Board of Directors and remember, we have so much to be thankful for. Take time out and just remember how fortunate to be living in a FREE Country and don’t forget to say a pray for our military love ones over seas!

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November 2011

(YTC) PETS

Many dogs have been seen running loose in the subdivision. It is the owner’s responsibility to have your animal on a leash while walking in a public area AND pick up your dog “poop.” Also, PLEASE respect your neighbors and don’t let you animal BARK ALL NIGHT. We have had many complaints about dogs barking at all hours in the night. It is up to you to control your animal and not allow it to bark late at night and disturb your neighbors.

(YTC) DEED RESTRICTIONS

If anyone needs a copy of their Deed Restrictions, you can print a copy from the Consolidated Management Services website at www. cmsgroup.org. Please call Anita Ashmore if you have any questions 281-296-9775.

(YTC) security

Please lock your car doors for your protection. If you see anything suspicious, please call the Sheriff’s Department - protect your property!

(YTC) HOME REPAIRS

Don’t forget if you want to make repairs on your home such as landscaping, new roof, cutting down trees; you must get approval from the Board of Directors. There is a form you need to submit and then you will be notified if approved. Contact Consolidated Management, 281-296-9775.

Siding Products

(YTC) street lightS

If a street light is out, get the pole # on the side of pole, approximate address and call Centerpoint Energy at 713-207-2222. You can also report the outage online at www.centerpointenergy.com/outage.

November is Epilepsy Awareness Month Many people are surprised to find out that Epilepsy is as common as breast cancer and takes as many lives each year. It is a terrifying and potentially fatal disease that carries tremendous stigma.

Epilepsy affects approximately 150,000 people throughout the greater Houston, Dallas and Ft. Worth areas.

• Epilepsy and Seizures affect almost 3 MILLION Americans of all ages - more than Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy and Parkinson’s disease combined!

• 200,000 new cases of Epilepsy are diagnosed every year.

• 10% of Americans will experience a seizure at least once in their lives.

• Each year in the U.S. 45,000 children under the age of 15 develop Epilepsy.

• A patient’s first seizure will occur without warning.

• EPILEPSY IS NOT CONTAGIOUS. • Medications do not cure epilepsy, but they may help control or prevent seizures. Medications help between 50-70% of patients.

• In Texas, if you are diagnosed with Epilepsy, your doctor must certify that you are seizure free for a period of 6 months before you can drive again.

• The color for Epilepsy Awareness is Purple.

• THERE IS NO CURE FOR EPILEPSY… YET! You can learn more and help find a cure at www.epilepsyfoundation.org.

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The Colonies

November 2011

COLONIES

TEENAGE JOB SEEKERS

(Revised 8/11) If your name was left off the list, it is because you did not return our call to update our records. You will have to resubmit your information to be put back on.

If you are between 12 and 18 and would like to be added to the teenage job seeker’s list, please fill out the form in the newsletter with your name, age, birthdate (mon. & yr.), phone number, (one only) year you will graduate (or grade presently in) and the name of your subdivision.

Check the list of jobs you want on your form. Mail to Krenek Printing, 7102 Glen Chase Ct., Houston, TX 77095 or email to news@krenekprinting.com. Must have parent(s) permission.

BRADFORD COLONY Perla Carranza - B, L, H, P Michelle Quintana - B, PP, T (K-3) Ashley Alanis - B, PP

17 14 13

832-202-5090 281-550-1153 832-545-7192

CHARLESTOWN COLONY Kayla Hubert - H, PP, B, CPR Karla Kuhl - B, P, SS, T (Math)

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281-855-6253 281-861-8123

CONCORD COLONY Alex Aydelott - PP Andree Toledano - B, P, L, PP, T (k-7)

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281-463-1733 409-748-9529

GEORGETOWN COLONY Justin Goranados - H, PP, T Cera St. Mary - B, H, PP, T (K-5) Cammia Boyd - B, PP Diana Chavez - B

15 16 13 15

832-818-1111 832-392-8090 713-538-6126 832-594-9099

LANGHAM CREEK COLONY Teo Matase - B, PP, L Kevin Vidal - T (k-3)

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713-419-9751 281-686-3571

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YORKTOWN COLONIES Korrenn Foster - B, T, PP Daniel Hernandez - PP, L Miracle Shepherd - PP Angelica Estrada - B, PP, T (K-2)

12 15 13 14

832-427-1321 832-814-2082 832-427-1139 832-468-9391

TEENAGE JOB SEEKERS-COlonies

Please place my name on the Job Seekers List

(Students must be 12 before they can be added to the babysitting list.)

Please fill in all information Job(s) _________________________________ q B -Babysitting Name _________________________________ q SS -Safe Sitter

q SL -Swim Lessons

Street _________________________________ q CPR -CPR Certified

q FAC -First Aid Cert. q RCC -Red Cross Cert.

Birthdate - Mo/Yr_________________________ q P -Pet Care (only) q PP -Pet/Plant Sitter Age ______ Yr HS Grad________ or Gr ________ q H -Housecare Phone _________________________________ q L -Lawncare q T -Tutor Subd__________________________________ q C -Car Detailing

Email _________________________________

I give my permission for my child’s name and phone number to be published in the ‘Teenage Job Seekers’ section of our subdivision newsletter.

Parent Signature ____________________________________________________

www.krenekprinting.com Mail to: Krenek Printing Co. 7102 Glen Chase Ct., Houston, TX 77095 email: news@krenekprinting.com The Colonies

November 2011

cy-falls high school

Women’s Pajama Party

Standing L-R: Secretary - Ronald Pabello, Jr. Historian - Margurite Lavin, Sr. Historian - Stephanie Brambila and Librarian - Katie Ferrigan. Seated: Vice President - Abi Amadin, President - Amanda Sheriff and Public Relations - Jordan Svehla.

CYPRESS FALLS HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR NEWS

October winds blew a flurry of activity for our young men and women. Beginning with our women’s PJ Party on the 7th. They decorated (and ate) sugar cookies, created perfect nails, made friendship bracelets and ate pizza!!! Makeover’s provided by Natasha Manly were stunning! The women got to know each other better and their beauty radiated inside and out.

The annual Fall Concert was fabulous and well attended on the 11th. The student’s voices filled the air with a joyous noise and helped to officially ring in our autumn notes.

Our Italian themed dinner theatre was a delight! Grazie Mandola’s for the fabulous Italian fare! While feasting, the silent auction was fun as well as helpful for raising funds for our many upcoming events. Our Men and Women wowed the audience with song as well as Labay and Truitt Middle Schools. We thank our many contributors for our auction items: students, parents, Art Class/Wine Glass, Pampered Chef, Houston Astros and Stokes Hardware, just to name a few.

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November 2011

Varsity Men’s pictures were taken at the Battleship of Texas for our upcoming Texas Music Educators Association participation. This honor will take place in early 2012.

In addition, we would like to announce an impressive number of our choir students were selected for the District choir. This is an auditioned selection and to have 30 speaks well for our music direction! These member are: Amadin, Abi; Ashworth, Jordan; Bracher, Grace; Clarke, Venessa; Cummings, Marissa; Danab, Reema; Denton, Tyler; Ferrigan, Katie; Harris, Andrew; Kang, Thomas; Kotzabassis, Eleni; Lafferty, Lauren; Lavin, Marguerite; Lebeau, Leah; Luu, Diana; Malinowski,Thomas; McCormick, Alicia; McIntyre, Sarah; Moynihan, Evan; Rawlings, Gentry; Reagor, Trevor; Rooney, John; Sheriff, Amanda; and Svehla, Jordan. OUTSTANING JOB EAGLES!

Choir students are a wonderful group of young adults and their officers deserve recognition. Thank you for your dedication.

Please mark your calendars for our November Restaurant nights. Mission Burrito on hwy 6 is on the 15th. Tell them you are with the choir as we receive a generous 25% of your food total! Take a night off and let someone else do the cooking!

A big round of applause to all our volunteers for whom we would not operate. Thank you for your time selling tickets, handing out programs, baking treats, escorting and chaperoning, driving here and there as well as just plain having fun with our children. Your tireless commitment to our youth is recognized and graciously received. With warmest sincerity, VOLUNTEERS - YOU ROCK!!!!

cy-fair independent school district www.cfisd.net

BOY SCOUTS Boy Scout Troop 61 Young men between the ages of 11-18 are encouraged to visit Boy Scout Troop 61 at 7:00 PM Wednesday nights at Peace Community Church, 5151 Addicks Satsuma Road, Houston, Texas, 77084. They will get a hands-on experience of what Scouting has to offer and have the opportunity to visit with the Scouts and their adult leaders to learn more about the things the troop has done during meetings and activities.

Scouting activities include camping, fishing, archery, rifle/shotgun shooting, hiking, first aid, wilderness survival, community service, citizenship, swimming, leadership, white-water rafting and much more. Troop 61 camps each month and has a group that goes to High Adventure Camp and to Merit Badge Camps each summer.

Boy Scout Troop 61 meets from 7:00 to 8:00 PM every Wednesday in the Activity Room at Peace Community Church. Contact Mike Viator with Troop 61 if your son is interested in joining a local Boy Scout Troop.

Cell: 713-409-1934, mike.viator@comcast.net.

HOMESCHOOL CUB SCOUT PACK 164 Attention home school families!!! Homeschool Pack 164 is a Christian Homeschool Cub Scout Pack chartered by West Houston Home Educators (www.whhe.org) that serves the Greater West Houston/Katy area.

Our Pack promotes God, Country and service! We are a part of the Sam Houston Area Council (www.shac.org) and Texas Skies District (www.texasskiesdistrict.org).

If you have a boy entering 1st grade (age 6) through 5th grade (age 10), we invite you to please come join in the fun! Visit our website www. homeschoolpack.com for more information about our Pack registration and meeting times.

CY-FAIR IMPORTANT DATES

Nov. 21st – 25th – Student Holiday (21st & 22nd – Inclement Weather Day if needed) Dec. 21st – Student Holiday (Inclement Weather Day if needed) Dec. 22nd – Jan 3rd – Student Holid

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The Colonies

November 2011

SPORTS

Exciting Changes Ahead for CFSA Basketball Winter 2011 Season

Bear Creek United Methodist Church Celebrates our 10 th Annual UPWARD Basketball League

Cy-Fair Sports Association will unveil new enhancements to the Basketball Program for the Winter 2011 season.

Similar to the CFSA Baseball program, coaches will now be allowed to form “friendship” teams and play against other friendship teams. The “select” level of play will be expanded to achieve more competitive balance and will include a mid-season tournament with players outside the CFSA program. The traditional “classic” division will remain in place with teams selected based upon where players live and go to school.

We are excited to announce registration for our 2011-2012 Upward basketball and cheerleading season Registration ends November 25, 2011 Evaluations are December 3, 2011 and December 10, 2011 Practices Begin January 2, 2012 First game January 28, 2012 Last game March 24, 2012 Awards Night March 25, 2012 Basketball $75 and Cheerleading $80 For more information visit www.hnwcc.org or call Larry Tyree at 281-463-2330, ext.119 Bear Creek Baptist Church

Upward Basketball and Cheerleading Bear Creek Baptist Church is offering Upward Basketball and Cheerleading for K-8th Grade. Cost is $75. They will have one hour of practices a week and on Saturdays they will have a game for an hour. Every practice and game takes place on our Campus. It is a great place where they will learn new skills for the game and cheer. Our first evaluation will be Saturday, November 5th, from 10:30 AM -1:30 PM in our gym on the Sonic side of our Church. The following week, we will have more evaluations, Mon., Tues and Thurs., Nov. 7th, 8th and 10th between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Each child is needed to attend during one of these times. We will kick off the season with a Clinic on Sat., Dec. 3rd and practices will begin the next week starting Dec. 5th. You can register on line at www.bearcreekchurch.tv/sports and click on Upward Sports. For more information, contact Linda Newhouse at Linda. newhouse@bcstaff.org or Scott Denton at Scott.denton@bcstaff.org. Bear Creek Baptist Church at 5901 N. Fry Rd. Katy, Tx 77449 - 281-859-9900.

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These changes will create a basketball experience that meets the diverse needs of the Cy-Fair community while continuing to attract new participants into the program.

Online registration began October 15th with a pre-season skills clinic scheduled for Saturday, December 3rd. For more information, please visit the league website at www.cy-fairsports.com.

Holy Covenant UMC Soccer What: Upward Soccer Where: Holy Covenant UMC 22111 Morton Road, Katy TX 77449 When: Evaluations are on January 14th and 21st at 9:00 AM. Who: Children ages 4 thru 5th grade Fee: $75, which includes a uniform Check out www.holycov.org for more information or call 281-579-1200.

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November 2011

ATTENTION LADY GOLFERS Please join us for a different golf outing every Wednesday morning. We are a small, fun group playing mostly around the west Houston area. Please contact www. golfinggals@yahoo.com or call Nancy at 281-550-2043.

Cy-Fair Sports Association Cy-Fair Sports Association is having baseball, football, cheerleading, drill team and wrestling sign ups right now. Check out the website for more information www.cy-fairsports.org.

Westside Golf League Westside Golf League is actively encouraging new members. We invite you to join us every Tuesday morning at Cinco Ranch Golf Club. Our purpose is to allow ladies of all levels to meet new friends and have fun while improving golfing skills. For more information, contact Sue Crookson at 281-392-4913 scrookson@houston. rr.com or Yana Dommert at 281-394-2481 yana@entouch.net.

Men’s Drop-In Roller Hockey Bear Creek Roller Rink is the new home of Men’s Hockey. If you are new to hockey or have played for years, we would love to have you join us. All ages and abilities are welcome. We play every Sunday from 7:30 - 9:30 PM. Come on out and give hockey a try!!! For more information, please call David Bradford at 281-855-2615.

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FALL CRAFT SHOWS West campus of Second Baptist Church Celebrations Christmas Market The CELEBRATIONS CHRISTMAS MARKET is one of the most anticipated and highly attended events in the West Houston area. The market will be open a full three days on November 3rd - 9 AM - 7 PM, November 4th - 9 AM - 5 PM and November 5th - 9 AM - 5 PM. CELEBRATIONS attracts vendors from several states. Hand crafted pieces, Christmas collectables, and one-of-a-kind gifts make this event an annual tradition for our community. With more than 100 vendors, on-going entertainment, vendors to purchase lunch from, this holiday shopping is truly an exhilarating experience!

The West campus of Second Baptist Church is located between Fry and Greenhouse Roads.

You may enter the campus from either Kingsland Drive or the feeder road of the Katy Freeway.

For more information, please check our website at www.second.org or call 713-365-3081.

2011 Deerfield Christmas Bazaar and Market We’re celebrating our 33rd Deerfield Christmas Bazaar and Market on November 4th and 5th. We are one of the highly selected bazaars in the area, known for our outstanding quality workmanship.

Our merchandize includes lots of Thanksgiving and Christmas décor, Christmas ornaments, scenic paintings, sparkling stain glass, wood design pens, designer children’s clothes, scarves, flip flops, purses, gorgeous jewelry and delicious baked goods and jellies.

We still have Deerfield Bazaar Cookbooks with all those delicious recipes for sale; they make great gifts.

Wee Wuns 11 th Annual Holiday Market Bring your friends & family and join us for the 11th Annual Wee Wuns Holiday Market! This year’s event will be held on Saturday, November 5th, from 9 AM - 3 PM, at Cypress United Methodist Church in Cypress, TX. Come enjoy handmade crafts and unique designs from over 50 vendors! While you’re there, enjoy homemade treats from our bake shoppe and stay warm with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee! Proceeds from this event directly benefit Wee Wuns Weekday Ministries and support such causes as teacher education, the purchase of school supplies and more. We appreciate all past and future support of this great school!

For questions relating to this event or to register as a vendor, please contact Lindsay Coker at lindsay.s.coker@gmail.com or 281-961-2546.

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November 2011

PINK HOLIDAY SHOPPING MARKET Presented by the Cypress Alumnae Chapter - Zeta Tau Alpha “Shop For The Cause” With your favorite Vendors!

November 5, 2011 • 9 AM - 4 PM Cypress Saloon, 12710 Telge Road, Cypress, TX GREAT VENDORS! RAFFLE! HOURLY DOOR PRIZES! A percentage of all Vendor Sales will be donated to Breast Cancer Awareness, Education & Research.

While shopping, take a break and eat lunch at PO’s Burgers! For every burger purchased, you will get one free entry into the Raffle Drawing!

NORWEGIAN CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Friday, Nov. 11th (11 AM - 5 PM), Saturday, Nov. 12th (10 AM - 4 PM) Sunday, Nov. 13th (12 PM - 4 PM). Norwegian Seamen’s Church, 4309 Young Street, Pasadena.

Take a trip to Norway in Houston! Unique holiday gifts such as handmade embroideries, Scandinavian crafts, trolls, Nisser, Swedish linens, Norwegian jewelry and dolls.

Great Raffle prizes, including 2 round trip tickets on SAS to Norway!! Silent Auction.

Demonstrations in Norwegian wood-carving and folk dancing. Visit our bakery selling Norwegian specialty cookies and breads. Wide selection of Scandinavian foods for sale. Take time for lunch in our cafeteria serving “open-faced” sandwiches and cream cakes. For more info., call 281-998-8366.

Holy Covenant United Methodist Church 22nd Annual Heartwarming Craft Show Saturday November 12th, 9 am-4 pm 22111 Morton Road, Katy Over 68 artisans featuring a variety of handmade items Sandwich Shoppe and Tea Room with homemade baked items Silent Auction Baskets Proceeds support local missions Free Admission For more information, call 281-579-1200 or www.holycov.org

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16 th Annual Langham Creek Market and Craft Show November 12, 2011 through November 13, 2011 (Sat. 9 am-5 pm & Sun. 10 am-4 pm) Join us at the Cy-Fair ISD Exhibit Center located at 11206 Telge Rd. just off Hwy. 290. Indoor facility with over 150 vendors selling a wide variety of products.

Also concessions, games, free parking and clean restrooms! Fun for the whole family! All proceeds benefit Langham Creek FFA students. For questions or vendor applications regarding available booths, please email langhamcreekffa@yahoo.com or visit us on Facebook (search for “16th Annual Langham Creek Market and Craft Show”).

Katy Area Parents of Multiples (KAPOM) Holiday Hop Katy Area Parents of Multiples (KAPOM) will be holding their Holiday Hop vendor night and raffle on Monday, November 14th from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The sale will be located at Crosspoint Church, 700 S. Westgreen Blvd. (at the corner of Kingsland and Westgreen). Vendors from all over Houston will provide shoppers with ideas for gift giving with their exceptional selection of merchandise, unique gifts, books, jewelry, fashion accessories and more. You will be able to find items for every member of your family, so make plans to attend this event. You just might be able to finish your holiday shopping in one night!

NEWCOMERS AND NEIGHBORS HOLIDAY BAZAAR Newcomers and Neighbors of Greater Houston would like to welcome you to our HOLIDAY BAZAAR on Wednesday, November 16th at the beautiful Lakeside Country Club, 100 Wilcrest off I-10. The Bazaar will be held from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Reserve your place and join us for a buffet lunch and special program honoring women veterans for $25 or just come and

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November 2011

shop the Bazaar…there will be Vendors, Raffle and Door prizes galore! Luncheon reservations and checks must be in by Wednesday, November 9th and sent to: Jeanne Fahrenholt, 11805 Meadowglen Lane #1179, Houston, TX 77082 or phone 281-556-0749. So come join the spirit and the fun of the holidays. And check us out on our website - www.nngh.org.

Home for the Holidays Christmas Gift Market Katy Merrell Center - Over 175 Booths!

November 18-20, 2011 Friday 5-9 PM • Saturday 10 AM-6 PM • Sunday 11 AM-4 PM

First Congregational Church’s 17 th Annual Pilgrim Festival We are currently taking applications for craft vendors of handmade by vendor only crafts. This is our 17th year for our unique festival.

The date is Saturday, November 19, 2011 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. No admission fee; crafts, games and food. We have inside and outside space available. If interested in an application or for more information, contact Sue Earl at jearl8925@sbcglobal.net. We are located in the Hunters Creek Village at 10840 Beinhorn Rd. (I-10, exit Bingle/Voss).

Ladies Night Out The Shoppes’ at Brookwood

1752 FM 1489, Brookshire, TX 77423 Tuesday, November 29th From 5:00 - 8:00 pm Please join us for a Special Night of Christmas Shopping appetizers, food tastings, door prizes and more!! Revenues will help Brookwood operate independently of government subsidies and to help give innovative, educational and vocational opportunities for close to 200 adults with disabilities.

Epiphany of the Lord Frostyfest Craft Show

Epiphany of the Lord’s 17th Annual Frostyfest will be held December 3, 2011 from 9 AM until 3 PM at 1530 Norwalk Dr., Katy (South of I-10 off of Highland Knolls between Fry Road and Westgreen Blvd.). This show offers handmade merchandise from craftsman and artisans; no resale venders. In addition to the more than 80 venders, there will be a quilt raffle, silent auction, bake sale and photos with Santa.

Joel Muller 281-304-9488

11740 Barker Cypress www.joelmuller.com Hablamos Español State Farm Insurance

Providing Insurance and Financial Services Home Office: Bloomington, Illinois 61710

GEYER ROOFING Specializing in Re-Roofing

Christmas & holiday events Make Plans to Visit the Cornerstone UMC Live Nativity The Cornerstone United Methodist Church (CUMC) will be hosting a Live Nativity on Saturday, December 3rd from 6-8 PM, as we transform the front area of the church into scenes that will depict the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. There will be shepherds with their sheep, the Three Wise Men and a camel, Mary and Joseph with baby Jesus in a manger and an angel portraying this holy event.

You will be able to visually embrace this event as you drive through, read scriptures and listen to music that tell of the wondrous night.

In the past, we have had several hundred cars that drive through to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of Jesus Christ.

We are located at 18081 West Road at Barker Cypress, behind the CVS. For directions or more information, please call the church at 281-859-4141 or go to our website at www.cornerstoneumc.org.

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“We work as unto the Lord”

Ron Geyer

713-462-3898 Call for a FREE ESTIMATE!

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281-477-3456 The Colonies

r y

November 2011

- West

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Nichole F. Cole, MD • Jennifer Huebner, MD • Amina Sayeed, MD • Obstetrics • Gynecology • Comprehensive Care For Women • Laparoscopic/Endoscopic Minimally Invasive Surgery For an appointment call

832-553-5450

www.obgynassociates.com 23920 Katy Freeway , Ste. 480 Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza One

First Christian Church of Katy 5 th Annual “Living Nativity”

Join us on Saturday, December 10, 2011, from 6:30-8:00 PM. There will be three (3) live representations of the Nativity Scene lasting approximately 30 minutes each. Refreshments will also be provided in the fellowship hall throughout the evening. First Christian Church is located at 22101 Morton Ranch Road, Katy, Texas 77449.

For more details, call the church office at 281-492-2693 or visit our website: www.fcckaty.com.

What is Christmas without Handel’s “Messiah?”

To many people, Christmas is just not Christmas without singing or hearing Handel’s Messiah. The Chancel Choir of St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Katy will host the fifth annual “Messiah Sing Along,” with full orchestra, again this year. The event will be held in the Sanctuary of the church (located at the corner of Shillington & Kingsland) Sunday, December 11, 2011 at 7:00 pm. For information, call 281-492-8031 or go to www.stpeterskaty.org.

Please join us as either a singer or a listener. Loaner scores will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis; however, given the limitations of available scores, you are encouraged to bring your own music. There will also be scores for sale.

Operation Christmas Child Operation Christmas Child is a ministry project devoted to reaching underprivileged children all over the world with the true meaning of Christmas. The project accomplishes this goal by collecting simple gifts complied into shoeboxes from people all over the U.S.A. These gifts consist of hygiene items, small toys, candy, school supplies, etc. The items are packed into shoeboxes along with the story of the Nativity, printed in their native language. The gift is so simple but the impact is huge.

Last year, Epiphany Lutheran Church participated in the project and the response was amazing. The church collected over 80 full boxes to ship overseas from the congregation alone. “We felt such a strong connection to this cause. It was truly moving,” remarks one Epiphany member.

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This year, Epiphany has decided to take advantage of its new, more visible location on West Rd. and Jackrabbit, to become a collection center for OCC. This means that during collection week, anyone who wishes to participate in OCC can drop of his or her donations to Epiphany Lutheran Church. The church will transport the collected items to the nearest distribution center. Collection week is November 14th - 21st.

For more information on Operation Christmas Child and directions to the nearest drop off location, go to www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/index.

The Cy-Fair Holiday & Health Festival/Layla Grace 5K The Cy-Fair Holiday & Health Festival and Layla Grace 5K will be held at the Berry Center on Dec. 3rd. This family-friendly, community event is free to the public and will feature over 100 exhibitors to help Cypress residents get into the holiday spirit and help raise money for a good cause.

Attendees can shop for holiday gifts as they get professional pictures with Santa, sample food and drinks, enjoy shows by local dance troupes and children’s choirs, have health screenings and beauty procedures done on-site, bring the kids to play in the Best Buy Mobile/Gaming area and win prizes and raffles throughout the day.

The Cy-Fair Holiday & Health Festival is held in conjunction with the Layla Grace 5K. Layla Grace Marsh lost her battle with Neuroblastoma at age 2. Her parents, Cypress residents, formed the Layla Grace Children’s Cancer Research Foundation to fund research into high-risk pediatric cancers and to empower parents who have children diagnosed with cancer. The Layla Grace 5K Run/Walk and Kids One Mile Fun Run begins and ends at the Berry Center. Entry fee for the 5K Run/Walk is $25 and for the Kid’s 1 Mile Fun Run, only $15.

For more information about the festival, visit www.holidayhealthfest.com. Show hours are from 10 am to 4 pm.

To register for the Layla Grace 5K, visit www.laylagrace.org/5k. The race will begin at 9:15 am.

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November 2011

CHURCH INFORMATION St. Cuthbert Episcopal Church - Coffee House On Friday, November 11th from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, St. Cuthbert Episcopal Church will host their 2nd Coffee House. Come and hear Brothers and Sisters of Soul; the Semalee Bilbrey Band and the Cuthbert Coffee Houserockers. Admission is $3 with proceeds going towards St. Cuthbert’s ministries. Coffee, sodas and snacks with be available for a nominal charge. St. Cuthbert is located at 17020 West Road in Houston (77095). For more information, call 281-463-7330 or visit our website at www.stcuthbert.org.

Covenant Lutheran Church Holiday Kids Night Out Need time for Christmas shopping, want a date night or just need a break? Covenant Lutheran Church (3785 Barker Cypress Rd.) is offering another Kids Night Out on Saturday, November 26th from 3:00 - 9:00 pm for children ages of 3 through 10 (must be potty trained). Kids will enjoy dinner, games, crafts, movies and music while Mom and Dad have an evening out! Children will be supervised by trained high school students and adults. Cost is $25 for the first child, $15 for the second child, $10 for each additional child in the same family. Space is limited! See www.covenantlutheran.org (What’s Happening) for registration forms or call the church office (281-578-8799) for more information.

Deborah A. Carey D.D.S., P.C.

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16100 CAIRNWAY, Suite 285 (On the Post Office Street)

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH BETWEEN JOBS NETWORKING Every Tuesday, 10:00 AM Limited Seating CAC is dedicated to helping, networking, educating and empowering those who still believe in the American dream. We believe that God has a job for you somewhere and it will take networking power to get the job. Information is power. It is all about job networking and helping one another. Come and network with others between jobs.

Located at 5930 Hwy. 6 N., Suite F-1, Houston, TX 77084, 281-804-2520, Fax 281-741-1686.

Seeking items for a Spanish church “Primera Iglesia Apostolica” is a Christian church that is growing and it is looking for the following items: new or used chairs, tables, good size organizers, items for the children’s ministry (children bibles, notebooks, crayons, etc). If you have these items and would like to donate for a good cause. You can call at 281-861-6708 or email mcpulger@att.net.

BEAR CREEK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH ATTENTION: CAREGIVERS OF ELDERLY PERSONS Did you know that on the second Friday of each month Bear Creek United Methodist Church provides a caring, Christian atmosphere for your loved one? The program, scheduled from 10 AM to 1:30 PM. This gathering provides free time for caregivers and includes crafts, chair exercises, word games, entertainment, lunch and more. Caregivers are also welcome to stay and join the fun. For more information or to register, please call the church office at 281-463-2330.

Bear Creek United Methodist Church is located at 16000 Rippling Water Drive, near North Highway 6 and Kieth Harrow.

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KATHERINE TYRA (BEAR CREEK) PUBLIC LIBRARY 16719 Clay Road, Houston, TX 77084, 281-550-0885 Our hours are: Monday - 1:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Tuesday/Thursday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Wednesday -10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday - 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Saturday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sunday - Closed.

Holiday Closings (Thanksgiving) - Wed., Nov. 23rd Branches close at 6 PM, closed Thurs., Nov. 24th through Sun., Nov. 27th.

LONE STAR COLLEGE - cyfair LIBRARY Monday through Thursday, 7 am - 10 pm; Friday, 8 am - 6 pm; Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm; Sunday, 1 pm - 6 pm. Holiday Hours: Wednesday, November 23rd, 7-4:30 pm; Thursday - Sunday, November 24th-27th, closed for Thanksgiving Holiday.

NORTHWEST BRANCH HARRIS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY 11355 Regency Green Drive, Cypress, TX 77429, 281-8902665, www.hcpl.net Hours of Service - Monday - 1:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Tuesday/ Thursday - 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Wednesday -12:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday - Closed, Saturday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM - Sunday - Closed. Holiday Closings (Thanksgiving) - Wed., Nov. 23rd Branches close at 6 PM, closed Thurs., Nov. 24th through Sun., Nov. 27th

BEAR CREEK COMMUNITY CENTER

3055 Bear Creek Drive• 281-859-1566 www.pct3.hctx.net Please call for more information or to register for any of these classes ASAP. All classes are FREE OF CHARGE and are suited for adults, unless otherwise noted and are open to the public.

ONGOING SENIOR DAY - Every Wed. at BCCC, join seniors for a day of fun and games. Bridge, Canasta, Pinochle and 42 are played starting at 9:00 AM. We also have afternoon bridge at 12:00 PM. WALKERCISE - BCCC offers walkercise every day at 8:00 AM. this is an indoor class that’s equivalent to a two-mile walk. Classes are free.

STRETCH AND TONE - Stretch and Tone is designed to improve flexibility, strength and endurance. You will see better body composition, improved strength and range of motion. This class is geared for all fitness levels. Bring a mat or towel and join us Tues. and Thurs. from 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM. Classes are free.

AEROBICS - Aerobics combines muscle toning exercise and lowimpact mid-intensity aerobics. Benefits include increased metabolic rate, which promotes efficient fat loss and improved body composition. Classes are free. Call BCCC for more information.

NEEDLEWORK GROUP - The ladies of the BCCC Needlework Group are looking for new members. If you enjoy embroidery, cross-stitch or creative sewing, please join us Tues. mornings at 10:00 AM. FUN TIME ART GROUP - Every Thursday morning from 9:00 AM to noon, would like to extend an invitation to adults to visit and join this no fee art group. Painting is in all mediums of your choice and help is available from all members. Come have fun together!

Call for more information.

BEAR CREEK GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY & LIBRARY INC. - Welcomes all genealogical researchers, novice to expert, to join us.

Meetings: second Thursday of each month, september through may from 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Casual attire and pre-meeting lunch at the Omni Hotel. Genealogical research trips, speakers, workshops, special events and genealogy Library. More info: Gary at 281-3980333, email: getober@hotmail.com or Alan at 281-579-0480, email Leeds3@swbell.net.

CONVERSATIONAL FRENCH - BCCC offers anyone who has the basic knowledge of the French Language the opportunity to meet with others in a conversational French class held every Wednesday at 11:00 AM.

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November 2011

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CLASSES BEGINNERS TAI CHI - BCCC is offering a beginners Tai Chi Class Mondays and Fridays which will start on Monday, January 9, 2012. No new participants will be able to attend after the third week is in progress. You must be able to attend both classes each week. The class is not limited at this time, although you must preregister in order to participate. Registration for this class will begin December 1, 2011. If you are interested go to BCCC to sign up or for more information.

NOVEMBER GARDENING TIPS LAWN/GARDEN CARE Finally we have cooler weather upon us to enjoy the cool evenings and mornings we have missed all summer long, and we are a little less dry than we were 2-3 months ago. However, the effects of this year’s drought are still upon us. Insect and fungus damage should still be part of your main considerations as we are moving out of the intense heat and into cooler times.

• Insect Control - chinch bugs can still be working to destroy our lawns if we haven’t fully eliminated their presence. Continue to monitor and treat any areas you may suspect chinch bugs may be present. Ortho “Max” or Spectricide “Triazicide” are both good liquid products to utilize.

• Fungus Control - November is when Brownpatch fungus will really start to take its toll if we fail to treat our lawns properly and scale back on the amount of water applied. Remember, when evening temperatures fall below 60 degrees, this problematic fungus will likely re-appear where you have had it before. The best strategy for limiting and controlling Brownpatch; • Change your watering schedule by eliminating any evening watering sessions. Leaving the lawn wet in the evening is an open invitation for Brownpatch to appear.

• Alter your fertilizer in use to limit the amount of nitrogen to only a “slow-release” combination.

• For treatment, Fertilome liquid systemic, Daconil or a double dose or Terrachlor should help stop any apparent signs from growing or increasing.

• Don’t wait until the famous “rings of death” appear - treat before you see the telltale signs and avoid the breakout altogether. It is much easier to prevent Brownpatch than it is to control/eliminate it.

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Disposals Faucets Sinks Water Lines Commodes Sewer Cleaning Water Heaters Gas Lines Sewer Drain Cleaning

• Trees - Do not forget to continue to deep water trees at least as long as overnight temperatures stay above 70 degrees. Magnolias (if you still have one) were especially battered this summer and need to be nursed during the fall season also - just because it is cooler doesn’t mean they do not require attention.

• Fall is for Planting - with the cooler months and the chance for new trees and shrubs to become better established before warmer weather is back, now is the time to consider planting new trees or ornamentals. Many of us may have the need to replace anything that may have been lost during the summer drought or just may wish to add to the beauty of our yards.

• Be sure you enrich the soil with appropriate tree/shrub soil. Be sure you do not use in-ground developed soils for containerized ornamentals. Introducing excessive amounts of fresh hardwood mulch or manure-based material can burn root systems and kill the plant before it can get established.

• If you moved any seasonal Poinsettias outdoors last winter with the hopes of being able to enjoy them again this holiday season now is the time to move the plants into a container and move indoors, providing at least 14 hours of ABSOLUTE DARKNESS daily for at least 6-8 weeks. You will still need to provide 4-6 hours of sunlight daily, but without the darkness treatment the plant will not develop blooms.

Tips for “Black Friday” Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving and is known as the busiest shopping day of the year. The name comes from an accounting term - red ink means a negative profit margin; black ink means a positive profit. Check out these tips on maximizing Black Friday: 1. Check Out the Ads: Your local Thanksgiving Day newspaper will be packed with ads, coupons, and circulars. This will be your number one source to local Black Friday savings and it will also help you organize your day to maximize savings.

2. Do Your Research Before Friday: If you are hoping to scoop up a deal on Friday on a big-ticket item, get your research out of the way asap. Being knowledgeable about the products you want to buy will help you avoid being suckerpunched with loud advertising for poor products.

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November 2011

3. Compare Prices: Utilize price-comparison Internet shopping sites to assist you in comparing product prices. Compare the “options” included with the product. Some retailers will low-ball the advertised price on a stripped down product and then you will be charged extra for the necessary parts.

4. Early Bird Shopper Discounts: The Early Bird Shopper is the real winner on Black Friday. Stores offering Early Day Shopper Specials, but with no “rain checks”, which means once they run out of the products, you are out of luck.

5. Night Owl Discounts - Thanksgiving Eve: Internet shoppers can beat the Early Birds by shopping online in the pre-dawn hours of Black Friday. Many retailers will be posting their Black Friday specials, which can be ordered, online and picked-up at your local store. Special “Web Only” deals will also be available starting as early as Thanksgiving eve.

6. Bring the Ads: Many stores offer a “lowest-price” guarantee; be sure to bring a copy of the exact product being advertised for less.

7. Know the Store Policies: Knowing the store policies on returns can help you determine where to buy. Many retailers are including restocking fees and shorter return deadlines. Almost all of the major retail chains require receipts for returns and exchanges and many keep a database of individuals who abuse return policies.

8. Gift Receipts: Gift receipts generally include a description of the item purchased but do not disclose the price paid. Including a gift-receipt should help insure a hassle-free return experience for gift recipients.

9. Cash is King: Enough said.

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November 2011

Slow Cookers are a Cook’s Best Friend

By The Paula Deen Test Kitchen

More leisure time and a homemade meal? Save money on groceries, use less electricity, and enjoy better flavor? You bet! And with a slow cooker, you don’t even have to be there while your dinner cooks.

With the invention of the original Crock-Pot® in the 1970s, we’ve been able to layer ingredients in our slow cookers, leave the house for work or play, and come home, hours later, to an inviting aroma-filled house and evening meal. Rival still manufactures the Crock-Pot®, but many other manufacturers are in the game with competitive models.

The “crockpot” moniker has become an icon for any slow cooker.

These days, choices are not limited to 2-temperature manual units; they also come programmable, with multiple time and temperature settings, countdown timers, built-in thermometers, and automatic temperature shifts to warm in case you are late getting home. There are slow cooker sizes and settings to fit your family’s individual needs.

Though shape is not necessarily a deal breaker when purchasing, it is a consideration. A money-saving attribute of slow cooking is that tougher, less expensive meats are rendered meltingly tender and juicy. Larger roasts and whole chickens fit better into an ovalshaped model and will cook more evenly, although you can trim them to fit into a round one.

It’s easy to adapt your favorite oven or stovetop recipes to slow cooker cooking. Regardless of yield, if your dish normally cooks in 15 to 30 minutes, you can count on 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours cooking in a slow cooker on High power or 4 to 6 hours on Low. If it takes 35 to 45 minutes, you should allow 2 to 3 hours on High power or 6 to 8 hours on Low. Main dishes like roasts and stews that cook up to 3 hours will take 4 to 5 hours on High or more than 8 hours on Low. For instance, Sweet Merlot Beef Stew should cook in about 4 hours on High or 8 to 10 hours on low; after you brown the meat, add everything to the slow cooker for the total cooking time, including the onions and mushrooms.

Other tips for successful recipe conversion: *To eliminate excess fat, remove skin from poultry and trim excess fat from meats before cooking. Pre-brown meats, and drain before adding to the crockpot, especially ground meats. *Brown chops and roasts to caramelize the outsides for richer flavor and attractive appearance. For Low Country Smothered Pork Chops, prepare the chops as directed and layer in the cooker with the strips of green pepper, onion, garlic, half of the broth, and Worcestershire.

Add more broth as needed to thin the gravy. *Vegetables, especially roots like potatoes, rutabagas, and carrots, cook more slowly than meats, so cut pieces uniformly and add them at the beginning. (It can take 8 to 10 hours on Low for a “baked” potato to cook until tender!) Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup is a perfect example; just put all the ingredients into the slow cooker, reserving half a can of broth to add at the end of cooking, if necessary. Let it cook 2 to 2 1/2 hours on High or 4 to 6 hours on Low. *Most stews, soups, and other braised dishes require less liquid.

If you end up with too much, pour it into a saucepan and reduce it until flavorful and thickened. If you need more liquid, it can be added at the end of the cooking time. *Cheese, milk, cream, and other dairy: Add dairy products close to the end of cooking. *Uncooked rice, however, requires standard liquid amounts. It cooks fast, so add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking on High or 2 hours on Low. It is better to cook pasta separately and add it before serving. *Most slow cooker liners are removable, allowing you to fill it up to a day before cooking. Remove the stone liner and assemble the casserole in it; cover and refrigerate until you are ready to cook. You can prepare Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead and cook it 1 1/2 to 2 hours on High or 4 to 6 hours on Low or until it is hot, stirring in cheese during the last hour of cooking. *Spices tend to loose their power during long, slow cooking; be ready to re-season towards the end.

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November 2011

Amaya Garage Doors Does your garage door need service? We can help!

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Office

Courtesy of Paula Deen Ingredients 4 slices bacon, rendered 2 lb chuck roast, cut into 2” pieces 1 1/2 t Salt Freshly ground pepper 2 T Flour1/4 C Steak Sauce 1 1/2 C Red Wine 1 1/2 C Water 1 t fresh thyme 2 Garlic Cloves, minced 1 lb Pearl onions 1/2 lb. Button Mushrooms, chopped 2 T Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions In a medium saute pan fry bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and reserve. Brown beef slowly on all sides in the bacon fat. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and flour. Toss to coat evenly.

Place beef in a heavy 4 qt. saucepan.

Call about November Specials!

s

r 24 Hou

Sweet Merlot Beef Stew Recipe

e y w r

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281-858-9300

Add reserved bacon (chopped), Paula Deen Merlot Steak Sauce, wine, water, thyme and garlic.

Cover and cook over low heat for 1 hour. Add onions to stew and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

In the final 10 minutes, add the mushrooms and parsley. Add additional water if necessary. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve along side crusty tuscan bread for dipping.

Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup Courtesy of Paula Deen

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DISCLAIMER: Articles and ads in this newsletter express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect to opinions of Krenek Printing Co. or its employees. Krenek Printing is not responsible for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. The publisher also assumes no responsibility for the advertising content with in this publication. All warranties and representations make in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be taken up with the advertiser.

The publisher assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising.

Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and/or misprints in this publication the publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction.

Under no circumstances shall the publisher be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to liabilities stated above.

Published by: KRENEK PRINTING CO. 7102 Glen Chase Ct., Houston, TX. 77095 281-463-8649 news @krenekprinting.com

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Ingredients 2 tablespoon olive oil 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1 3/4 pound) 1 small onion, chopped 1 cup sliced carrots (about 3 small) 2 1/2 cup sliced zucchini (about 2 medium) 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, & oregano 2 (14.5-ounce) cans chicken broth Grated Parmesan, optional Directions In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Add onion and carrot, and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in zucchini, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Courtesy of Paula Deen Ingredients 1 10 3/4 ounce can condensed cream of celery soup 1 4 ounce jar pimentos 1 8 ounce can water chestnuts, drained and chopped 2 14 1/2 ounce cans green beans, drained and rinsed 3 cup diced cooked chicken 1 medium onion, peeled and diced 2 tablespoon butter or vegetable oil 1 cup mayonnaise 1 6 ounce box long-grain wild rice, cooked according to package 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese 1 pinch salt Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Heat butter or oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add onion and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl.

Add all remaining ingredients to bowl and mix together until thoroughly combined.

Pour into a greased 3-quart casserole dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

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November 2011

AMRI Fence FENCE & GATE CONSTRUCTION

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DEADLINE: 10th of preceding month.

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Get the word out!

Visit the web site to post your ad.

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mail, fax or email: CLASSIFIED@KRENEKPRINTING.COM

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ADS@KRENEKPRINTING.COM (281) 463-8649 fax (281) 463-2425

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www.krenekprinting.com FOR SALE Floral sofa set, $175; swirl chair, $15; clear storage box $7; big flower planters, $5 each; Coleman steel cooler, $15. Please call 281-856-9621.

29-gallon aquarium and cherry stand with ample storage space, gravels included, good condition, $140. Call 281-290-0808.

Hoveround chair; Kawai piano, walnut contemporary style, full keyboard, excellent condition. Call 281-256-0619.

Kenmore 27” gas dryer, 800 series white, $300; Whirpool Gold washer Ultimate Care II, white, $200. Both excellent working condition. 281-513-5612.

Scrapbooking supplies for sale! Must go. Like new embellishments, stamps and tools. Julie 989-709-0932.

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November 2011

Convertible crib/toddler bed and matching chest of drawers, Child Craft, all wood, excellent condition.

Email for pictures jenduharte@yahoo.com.

Rolex watch. Call for details. 281-414-3597.

Piano: Kohler & Campbell upright, excellent condition, includes piano bench with cushion, $1,100. 281-684-1821.

Kenmore, apx. 26 C. Ft., s/b/s refrigerator, best offer; gold rim dishes for 12, all serving pieces, $50. 281-256-3480.

Beautiful solid oak 3-piece entertainment center. It has 2 piers and a floating bridge. Each pier has many shelves with glass doors and many other compartments for all your electronics. The floating bridge can expand to fit up to 63” TV. It is priced at $400 for quick sell.

Must see to appreciate the quality. 281-394-5640.

Office Setup: Full size dark cherry executive desk, rear section & hutch; dark cherry solid bookshelf; roll-up dark cherry floor mat (for carpet or tile); brush nickel / cherry floor lamp. Total Value $1,700.

Selling for $500. Very good condition 832-510-6489.

Memorial Oaks Cemetery companion crypt, perpetual care included, $8,700. 713-854-1994.

Scrapbooking Supplies! Bear Creek area, new, name brand, paper, embellishments, tools, and more! I no longer have time! Call Julie 989-709-0932.

Omega Pro II Racquetball Racket with zip case, never used, $35; 8” animal gold trim/porcelain (some) plates, $15 - $20 each; Emmot Kelly clown, numbered/framed lithographs, $75 - $100 each. Cheryl 281-543-2409.

Sliding mirror doors (one pair) for a wardrobe or closet, each door is 39 “W x 79”H, together the doors will be good for a 78”W X 79”H wardrobe or closet, comes with upper and bottom alum guide rails, the doors are similar to IKEA PAX MALM ward robe article # 900-74572, picture available, asking $205. Contact School8007@aol.com.

AUTOMOTIVE Rare 1967 Pontiac Firebird convertible, re-built, under warranty, 400 Pontiac motor-not matching no., less than 400 miles, totally restored, yellow with black interior, new paint, new disk brakes, new suspension, new interior & new black top with cover, new custom sound system, $24,000. Firm. 281-455-5543.

1996 Buick Roadmaster Ltd: White, leather seats, 76K miles, good condition, $4,500. Call Richie Anderson 281-463-1712.

89 Toyota pick up, 4 cylinders, very clean and in great running condition, $2,800. 281-744-2779.

1998 Suzuki 1500 Intruder, $3,550. Call for details 281-726-4305 Pat. 17” Dodge Ram 1500 wheels and tires, 265/70/17, $650 OBO. Call 713-898-0912.

WANTED Wanted: To buy Rolex watches. 281-414-3597.

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HELP WANTED - CARE Mature female to live in and care for elderly female in Settlers Village. Duties include light cleaning and detailed personal care. 832-470-8045.

Quadriplegic lady needs caregiver, will require lifting, will be trained, evenings and some weekends. 713-466-7890.

HELP WANTED Experienced groomer, with minimum of 2-3 years of hair cutting experience (not your own dogs). Fill out application at 18310 FM 529. No calls.

Swimming Pool Tech: Looking for a highly motivated individual with the ability to work on their own providing swimming pool cleaning and maintenance in the Cypress and Northwest Houston area. Experience required and must have dependable truck with 2” receiver towing hitch. English speaking, have cell phone, and capable of lifting and carrying 100 pounds. If you meet these requirements please call 281-785-5939.

Lease space available, upscale salon in Copperfield. Contact Leticia 713-898-4484 or Craig 832-483-0114.

Seamstress needed to sew woman’s pant suits. Call 713-466-7890.

Salon Professionals - Experience hairstylist wanted for trendy salon in Copperfield. Lease space starting at $125 per week. Massage / facial suite also available. Call Dana 832-434-3644.

About Hair Salon and Day Spa is seeking experienced stylists. Apply in person 15422 FM 529, Houston, TX 77095.

Sandy’s Hair Studio is now hiring an experienced hair stylist; facialist and massage therapist. We offer great commission. Call 281-256-2279.

Now hiring Security Officers. Part time/full time on the job training. No experience necessary. Professional & reliable retired welcome. Must provide TDL, Soc. Sec. card, (clear criminal history). Excellent benefits, all shift available. Call today & set up interview.

281-759-1010. 1035 Dairy Ashford, Suite 225, Houston TX, 77079.

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Now Hiring! Do you love children? Small private preschool is now accepting applications.

Must be dependable and energetic. Will train.

Must have copy of High School Diploma or GED and copy of Social Security Card. Apply in person to 16618 Clay Road, Suite 400.

281-656-2273.

Michelle’s Salon is looking for good experience hairstylist, massage therapist, nail tech and esthetician, lease or commission. 832-878-1052.

The Pediatric Dentist of Katy is looking for a highly motivated Registered Dental Assistant.

Our Pediatric Dental practice is located at 24022 Cinco Village Center Blvd., Suite 210 in Katy. Our office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8 AM to 5 PM, with lunch from 12-1 PM. On Fridays we are open from 7:30 AM to 3 PM. Please bring by your resume in person.

Dental Hygienist needed part-time, minimum 3 years experience, 2 days a week, 7 AM-4 PM, 9 AM-6 PM, days flexible, San Felipe/Voss.

Fax Resume to 713-974-4760.

Housekeepers needed. Great hours for mom’s with school age children. 281-861-0394.

LL Hair Studio Salon is hiring experienced stylists! Visit our website at www.LLHairStudio.com to learn more, or call us today at 281-550-5302

The Colonies

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Position available for an experienced hair stylist with a great attitude and good clientele. Benefits available. Call Images Hair Studio at 281-256-2286.

Dental Assistant needed, at least 2 years of experience, must be state licensed. 281-550-0900.

A growing residential construction co. locally owned & operated looking for advancement minded English speaking individual w/truck & tools. Call for more information 713-591-7825 or 713-446-6989.

Dental assistant position available. F/T, nonsmoker, experienced preferred, knowledge of Dentrix software and bilingual a plus. Must be state licensed; Front desk receptionist, bilingual preferred. Fax resume to: 281-861-7174.

Or call 281-861-7500.

Stylist position available at Salon Picasso Studios.

Lease/commission. 281-861-9911.

Paralegal - Katy area law firm looking for candidate with 5+ years experience. Ideal candidate should be proficient in Word and WordPerfect, be a self-starter, possess excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast paced environment. Send resume & salary requirements to 281-398-1380.

Residential Electrician(s): Journeyman or helper/ apprentice. Have experience, references & contact info. ready, beginners last employment info.

281-646-9928.

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HOMES/CONDOS FOR SALE Bay House in Sargent, waterfront property with boat access to house, built in 2003.

2 BR’s, 2 car garage, vaulted ceilings, central AC/heat, storage shed attached to house, carport, enclosed stairway, water & sewer system. Call Bill at 979-429-6853.

HOMES FOR LEASE 3-2 spacious home in Katy, $1,200 monthly.

Call Fred or Nataly 281-347-2494 for info.

TIMESHARES/VACATION HOMES Las Vegas Timeshare - On the Strip near the airport, sleeps 4, full kitchen, dining & living; jacuzzi in room, 2 TV’s/2 Phones, 2 pools outside building, fitness room, washer/dryer/safe in room, 4 days $355 - 7 days $500. No added fees.

Cheryl 281-543-2409.

Vacation home for rent: Hill country vacation home, Cedar Creek Cabin, new 2/2 with loft, fully furnished, huge front porch, satellite TV, beautiful views, abundant wildlife, Frio River at Concan near Garner State Park, sleeps 8. Call 866-7CON-CAN or go to www.frioman.com for more information.

NOVENA Due to the amount of space involved and the response of those wishing to publish a Novena to St. Jude, a Novena to St. Jude will be published along with a list of initials of those wishing to publish one. We are sorry, but we cannot make exceptions. $5 Charge for each Novena per area. Please specify which area you would your Novena to appear in. - Krenek Printing.

NOVENA TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude help of the hopeless, pray for us. Say Novena 9 times a day for 9 days. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you St. Jude – JRM.C, PR, HM.

The Colonies

November 2011

Important Colonies Numbers

Bradford Colony I and II Board Members Robert Willoughby, President 281-855-6897 Arturo Alcedo, 1st VP Eric J. Berning, 2nd VP 281-345-0570 Rosa Graham, Secretary 281-550-7574 Pauline Dunglinson, Treasurer 281-856-0649 Bradford Colony Board Email: bradfordcolony1and2@yahoo.com Esquire Community Management, LLC 281-444-9250

Bradford Colony Section Three (BCS3) Board Mark Przywara , President 832-452-4454 msp0007@yahoo.com Irma Poirier, V. President Maria Torres, V. President 281-855-2517, torres123m@hotmail.com Jamin Jones, Treasurer, jamin@madnessmotorsports.com Andy Nguyen, Secretary 832-643-1974, andyn@springisd.org Theodora Daly /ACMP 281-855-9867

Charlestown Colony Board of Directors Alex Vargo, President Pleshetta Loftin, Treasurer Lisa Albers, Secretary Sharon Tipping, Vice Pres./Arch. Control SCS Mgmt Services Staci Gregory

832-498-7085 281-799-3647 713-502-4651 281-550-7915 281-463-1777 www.scsmgmt.com sgregory@scsmgmt.com

Important Colonies Numbers

Concord Colony Board of Directors Randy Ward, President Marilyn Davis, Vice President Melanie Scholler, Secretary Jeanne Pressler, Arch. Cntl Comm. Chr Consolidated Mgmt. Allison Malandrucolo

281-855-9077 281-856-2027 281-858-0081 281-463-7550 281-296-9775

Georgetown Colony I Board of Directors Richard Cottrell, President Brian Rogers, Vice President/Architectual Control Scott Bucley Treasurer Secretary Andy Menard, Director COMMITTEE POSITIONS Deed Restrictions Committee Yard of the Month Signs-Lydia Rodgers www.scsmgmt.com or Ola Guess

281-855-4433 281-861-5411 281-855-9876 281-861-5444 281-463-1777

Georgetown Colony II Board of Directors Lori Dickens, President Bruce Medley, Vice President Timothy Fiore, Treasurer www.scsmgmt.com or Ola Guess

ldickens@dickensdelivery.com brucemedley@sbcglobal.net Tim_Fiore@yahoo.com 281-463-1777

Jamestown Colony Board Members

Rick Moore, Sect. 3, President Steven Villarreal, Sect. 3, Treasurer & Secretary Beverly Franklin, Sect. 3 Jim Osburn, Sect. 2 Donna Hackemack Bryant, Sect. 1 Wayne Modgling, Sect. 1 ACMP, Theodora Daly

281-859-1211 281-704-1273 281-804-0176 832-633-1030 281-550-3527 281-855-9867

Langham Creek Colony Board of Directors William Thielen- President Eric Sandrock - Vice President Dennis Eck - Secretary/Treasurer ACMP, Ransom Daly

281-855-9867

Langham Creek Colonies Tennis & Swim Assoc, Inc. Langham Creek Colonies HOA #1 Langham Creek Colonies HOA #2 Genesis Property Management, Inc.

713-953-0808

Yorktown Colony Board of Directors

Monroe Burks, President / ACC 281-859-2220 Beverly Wolfe, Vice Pres/ ACC Chairperson 281-861-7492 Rose Garza, Treasurer 832-886-7076 Mary Starr, Secretary 832-427-1421 Mary Starr, Newsletter / Yard of the Month 832-427-1421 Martha Muzquiz, Director at Large 281-550-2218 Anita Ashmore, Consolidated Mgmt.

281-296-9775 2204 Timberlock Plc #245, The Woodlands, TX 77380 Fx 281-296-9788

The Colonies Recreation and Property Owners Association Beverly Wolfe, President (Yorktown Colony)

281-861-7492

Wanda Anglin, Secretary (Charlestown Colony)

281-856-8234

Rick Moore, Treasurer (Jamestown Colony)

281-859-1211

Bob Willoughby, Director (Bradford Colony)

281-413-0820

Richard Cottrell, Director (Georgetown Colony I)

281-584-1240

Lori Dickens, Director (Georgetown Colony II)

281-802-2251

Randy Ward, MUD Rep. (Concord Colony)

713-799-6347

Stella Walleck, Consolidated Management

281-296-9775

Greater Houston Pool Management

713-771-7665

IMPORTANT COMMUNITY NUMBERS MUNICIPAL ULTILITY DISTRICT 102 Municipal Utility District 102 - 15300 Falmouth MDS (Water) - District Operator, Customer Service/Billing Inquiries Service Dept (leaks, emergencies) Coats, Rose, Yale, Holm, Ryman & Lee, P.C. - Legal Council Assessments of Southwest Tax Assessor/Collector Harris County Sheriff Department - Security -

281-290-6507 281-290-6503 713-651-0111 713-482-0216 713-221-6000

SCHOOLS

Cy-Fair School District Admin.

Horne Elementary (K-5) Truitt Middle School (6-8) Langham High School CyFalls High School

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281-897-4000 281-463-5954 281-856-1100 281-463-5400 281-856-1000

Emergency Fire & Ambulance 713 466-6161 Clay Rd. Courthouse Annex Judge Bill Yeoman State Highway Dept.

Animal Control Rape Crisis (24 hrs.)

Suicide Prevention (24 hrs.)

Battered Women & Children MISC. Car Share/Van Share Alcoholics Anonymous (24 hours) Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse Crisis Hotline (24 hours) Harris Co. Children’s Protective Services (24 hours) Poison Control (24 hours)

911 281-256-2266 281-463-2446 281-463-2341 713-802-5076 281-999-3191 713-528-7273 713-228-1505 713-528-5785 713-227-0003 713-686-6300 713-520-8620 713 -228-1505 713-394-4000 1-800-764-7661

U. S. Post Office (Bear Creek) Center Point Gas To report gas leaks Reliant Energy Street Light Repair AT & T Street Repair Harris County Animal Control Humane Wildlife Removal Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Bear Creek Library MTA Buses (Routes & Scheduling) Commissioner Jerry Eversole

1-800-275-8777 713-659-2111 713-659-3552 713-207-7777 713-207-2222 713-237-7304 281-353-8424 281-999-3191 281-377-5335 713-468-8972 281-550-0885 713-635-4000 713-755-6444

NEWSLETTER PUBLISHING/ADVERTISING Krenek Printing Company 7102 Glen Chase Ct., Houston, Texas 77095 281 463-8649 Fax# 281 463-2425 Articles email: news@krenekprinting.com Ads email: ads@krenekprinting.com website: www.krenekprinting.com

The Colonies

November 2011

CydneyParker.com

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281-235-9910

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November Featured Homes ed

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Concord Colony

Beautifully redone 4 BR or 3+ study w/ french Cute 3 BR split plan w/ doors to master! Stunning cabinetry & “Tuscan” atrium, charming kitchen, tiled oversized master shower. New A/C & ductwork brick fireplace & laminate in ‘08. Roof ’05. Custom mantle. Under $110k - Hurry! flooring. $1200/month

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Georgetown

Porcelain tile floors in living room, dining & master. Wood laminate in upstairs GR. Stainless appliances. Upstairs bath gutted & remodeled. H2O Repl’d. - $139,950

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Westminster

Super clean 2 story.

3 BR + loft. Laminate Floors. New A/C. Gas. $102,950

Bradford

Berkshire

New Construction. Beautiful rotunda style entry.

Great one story split plan.

Master w/ garden tub & separate shower. Huge gourmet kitchen, dark cabinets, granite counters. Stone Fireplace.

Backyard gazebo & pergola. $295,000 $121,900

The Market is improving. I have buyers for your home. Choose your agent carefully... I have the Experience, Knowledge, Integrity, Market and Web Presence, Respect of my Past Customers, Peers and Industry Contacts...

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281-855-9212

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Black Friday

November 2011

Published by: Krenek Printing 7102 Glen Chase Ct • Houston, TX 77095 • 281-463-8649 The Colonies November 2011 email: news@krenekprinting.com for articles • ads@krenekprinting.com for business ads • classified@krenekprinting.com for classified ads