Issuu

The Kids & Pets Issue

AU G U S T 2 022

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Happy Anniversary Cypress! Four years ago, I launched Cypress Lifestyle and hoped you would love reading it as much as we love creating it. I’m thrilled at the incredible response from people I meet around town who tell me how much they love receiving it each month! And I’m especially grateful for my partners who help make this all possible – many of whom were in the first issue in August 2018! This August issue is dedicated to the cutest members of our community— kids and pets. They both have a way of making us feel special and their loyalty and sense of wonder is refreshing. I’m excited to share our 2nd annual gallery of Cypress kids with the pets who love them! We asked for your pictures, and you didn’t disappoint. I hope the enthusiasm continues each year! My children are grown and the youngest, my daughter Delaney, will be a senior graduating in 2023. By this time next year, I’m sure I’ll be experiencing all the feels that parents get when sending their child off to college. While I’ve done it twice already, it’s never an easy transition. I sympathize with all of you who are experiencing it this year. (Do you think Delaney will let me go with her??) As summer begins to wind down and the start of school commences, the carefree days of slower morning routines and spending more time adventuring is exchanged for busier school and sport routines and schedules. Although the routine of school for our children is often a welcome friend by the time August rolls around, it is generally a little bittersweet. I hope you enjoy the stories in this issue and please consider my partners’ services as the need arises. We are a community after all and keeping it local will help our town and Cypress Lifestyle continue to thrive. How lucky we are to live here! Can I get an AMEN!

August 2022 PUBLISHER

Peggy Garner | peggy.garner@citylifestyle.com PHOTO EDITOR

Shannon Raske | shannon.raske@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Ragain CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Stephanie Parnell, Erica Hernandez, Marcey Heschel, Chelsea Dillion, Amanda Creasey CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Shannon Raske

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

PEGGY GARNER, OWNER & PUBLISHER @CYPRESSLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/CYPRESS |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Cypress Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cypress area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cypress Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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AUGUST 2022

inside the issue The Kids and Pets Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Healthy Eyes for Kids

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Healthy Lifestyle

Expert Help

Financial Buzz

Our Town

Inspired By

Giving Back

Local’s Choice

EV ENT PLA NNI NG + SE RV IC E S

Realty Report

R EA L ESTAT E

Events

Optometrist Dr. Celesta Ferreira shares eye health tips for kids

16 Let's Get Real About Social Media Helping your kids navigate the risks and rewards safely

28 Growing Hearts, Minds, and Dreams Cypress survivor serves as a National Ambassador for the American Heart Association

36 Breaking the Ice

Yeti Sno owners create community connections while keeping Cypress area residents cool with tasty snow cone concoctions

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Shannon Raske | Lunalux Cypress residents, Josh and Michelle Gardner, started a shaved ice food truck with their five kids who accompany them to events and help serve their refreshing concoctions. They hope to teach their children life skills like practical math and setting goals.

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MEET OUR BCBA

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Apara Cypress’ new BCBA Aolani Montano, M.A., BCBA, LBA is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and ready to meet your family.

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AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / CY P R E S S

AUGUST 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Father and Son Duo Opens Clean Juice Organic Cafe Clean Juice has opened a new location at 25672 Northwest Fwy Suite B, Cypress. The juice bar franchise is USDA-certified organic and boasts nearly 135 stores across the nation. The Cypress location is owned by father and son, Ray and Drew Pikulski. Their menu features juices, smoothies, acai and smoothie bowls, salads, toasts, wraps, and more. They have a seasonal menu that ensures products and produce are at their peak. Currently, their summer menu includes fresh fruit refreshers in a cucumber pineapple and dragon fruit lemonade flavor. CleanJuice.com

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Cy-Fair Helping Hands Partners with DoorDash Local non-profit, Cy-Fair Helping Hands is partnering with DoorDash to help the local community. Named Project Dash, they will partner to provide free deliveries of essentials such as food and toiletries to individuals in need. These individuals include seniors, those with no transportation, and even busy mothers who cannot get away. The DoorDashers will collect boxes of essentials from the CFHH food pantry and deliver it to community members. Their deliveries are completely free and no tips are accepted. CyFairHelpingHands.org

STEM Education Center iCode Cypress Now Open iCode Cypress, located at 25282 Northwest Fwy Suite #260, is the premier STEM education center for children of all ages and skill levels. They offer leading curriculum in coding, design, robotics, microcomputers, game development, and app creation while focusing on tech skills, collaboration, creativity, and teamwork. iCode also holds stem and coding camps over the summer and school holidays. iCodeSchool.com/Cypress

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The Cy-Fair Education Foundation is Hosting a Sporting Clay Tournament The Cy-Fair Education Foundation (CFEF) is a non-profit organization that has been providing scholarships to Cypress-Fairbanks graduating seniors since 1970. CFEF added the Sporting Clay Tournament to their 2022 scholarship fundraiser line-up, which will take place on August 31, 2022, at the Westside Sporting Grounds. Sporting clay teams will move through challenging clay target stations that simulate field shooting as they will compete for first, second, and third place. The day includes a catered meal, raffle, and more.

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Webb’s Automotive is Expanding Webb’s Automotive, owned by Roy and Tracie Webb, is expanding operations in Cypress. The company has been in business for 27 years with 11 of those years in Cypress. This year’s expansion will add four more bays to its existing buildings and 20 new parking spaces. The additions will allow the shop to hire new technicians and service more customers. Construction is expected to be complete by late fall. WebbsAutomotive.com

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Hatchet House Texas, a local axe-throwing venue, is now open at 11946 Barker Cypress Rd, Cypress. The venue features five standard and four projected axe throwing targets. They are open to individuals of all ages and experience levels. Each lane has its own assigned throwing instructor to offer coaching and ensure the safety of guests. They also offer birthday and wedding parties, team-building outings, and other special events. HatchetHouseTexas.com

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H E A LT H Y EYES FOR KIDS

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HE ALTH + W E LLNE S S

OPTOMETRIST DR. CELESTA FERREIRA SHARES EYE HEALTH TIPS FOR KIDS

HOW CAN I HELP IMPROVE MY KID'S EYESIGHT? Make sure they are seen by an optometrist for an eye exam at the appropriate age ranges to rule out any significant concerns for eye health. Limit screen time and encourage outdoor activities, as it has been proven in studies that two hours a day of outside time can help limit the progression of myopia in children. If you see any signs of eye rubbing, squinting, eye turns in or out, complaints of headaches, trouble focusing when doing school work, schedule them for an eye exam! As a parent, you can catch the signs of eye troubles from simply watching how your child reacts when they read or focus. MY KIDDO RUBS HIS EYES A LOT, WHAT COULD THIS MEAN? Eye rubbing can be an indication of a few main things: dry eyes, ocular allergies, or trouble seeing. If you notice them rubbing often, a comprehensive eye exam can differentiate whether we need to treat the symptoms or if the symptoms are a sign of blurred vision.

HOW DO YOU CARE FOR YOUR CHILD'S VISION? We asked Dr. Celesta Ferreira of Cypress Optique to share her thoughts on eye health for kids. WHEN SHOULD I FIRST TAKE MY KID TO THE EYE DOCTOR AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD THEY GO? Children should have their first eye exam between 6-12 months, or sooner if recommended by a pediatrician. Routine eye exams then begin at three years old and annually starting at five. This allows us to evaluate for proper muscle function, overall eye health, and to see if any significant issues are present. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SCHOOL VISION SCREENING AND A COMPREHENSIVE EYE EXAM? School screenings are very limited, only measuring basic vision function and any significant risk to visual health. Comprehensive eye exams include a complete evaluation, including front and back of the eye health, testing muscle function, evaluating for any mild or severe ocular conditions and ruling out concern for risk of eye diseases in the future.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING AN EYE EXAM FOR MY CHILD? We will not only check to see if they need vision correction, but ensure your child’s eyes are as healthy as they can be. They will be greeted by our friendly staff, complete a few simple tests with our technician, and then they meet me, Dr. C! During my exam, I make sure to explain to parents and kiddos what the tests are for. As a mom and a physician, I always make sure they are as comfortable and confident as they can be during the exam. Our kiddos leave with a special gift or toy, to let them know how amazing they did. Lastly, if they need glasses, the staff works with parents or guardians to find the perfect fit. YOU'RE A MOM OF TWO YOUNG BOYS. WHAT ARE YOU TEACHING THEM ABOUT EYE HEALTH? As mama and not just Dr. C, I am teaching my little guys to protect their eyes from the sun and from screens. I ensure, along with my husband, that we engage them in outdoor activities and if they have screen time, that it is limited and no devices that are handheld. My threeyear-old knows mama wants the phone more than an arm's length away, we don’t sit close to the tv, and we don’t rub our eyes. It is so important to set the example, so we don’t have phones at the breakfast or dinner table. We limit TV time and focus on family time as much as possible!

CYPRESS OPTIQUE 10920 Fry Road Suite 550 Cypress, Texas 281-942-8520 CypressOptique.com

ARTICLE BY ERICA HERNANDEZ

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Let's Get Real About Social Media HELPING YOUR KIDS NAVIGATE THE RISKS AND REWARDS SAFELY

As a mother and therapist, I have a love/hate relationship with social media. On one hand I enjoy posting inspiring quotes, fun reels and photos, but on the other I see the risks and dangers associated with it in general. Social media alone isn’t harmful, but unhealthy use of it certainly can be. When used for self-expression, inspiration, advocacy, and healthy connection, it can be fun! Who doesn’t like to watch a few Tik-Tok videos or get lost scrolling Instagram for a few mindless minutes? The problem is that many adolescents struggle with self-esteem issues; and social media, can cause harm during this vulnerable period of life.

ARTICLE BY MARCEY HESCHEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON VALENTINE

EXP E RT H E LP | ED U CATI ON

“Technology is complicated! So is adolescence, and so is parenting. The best advice I can give is to be an authoritative parent. ”

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / CY P R E S S

In fact, studies have shown that girls’ use of social media is linked to increased rates of depression. Children and youth today are spending more time than ever online compared to pre-pandemic times. And, whether we like it or not, social media is here to stay. Unfortunately, so are the dangers and risks hidden beneath the clever videos and reels. Consider for a moment its influence towards relentless, unrealistic comparison and self-criticism. Life isn’t all holidays and flawless complexions. Filters create unrealistic ideals that can make us feel inadequate. Influencers can either inspire us to love our extra pounds or starve ourselves to fit into one of Marilyn Monroe’s dresses. Other risks of social media include interference with sleep, schoolwork, and exposing kids to inappropriate content, online predators, and cyber-bullying. Children, teens, tweens and adolescents are at risk simply by having an online presence. Scary, right? Well, my hope is that awareness will inspire pro-activity and caution. Keep in mind that there is no permanent delete button on social media. Remind your kids that someone can quickly screenshot their post and share it within a few seconds. A good rule of thumb is to pause before posting. Only post something you would say or do in real life. I have seen multiple teenagers who have had shared photos come back to haunt them. Social media is full of every type of content possible and your children will find what they’re looking for, whether it be helpful or hurtful. When a teen is struggling with an image issue, they look may for support online, which may help them feel more self-acceptant, or make them feel worse. As caregivers we should set limits and boundaries on screen time, but also have open judge-free conversations about what they are looking at and how it makes them feel.

Ever heard of a finsta account? We all need validation, and a compliment can feel really great! But, if we learn to rely on people’s comments and opinions to determine our worth, we’re swimming into dangerous water. For some youth, social media is a river with a very strong current. The seeking of validation in the form of likes, views and shares can become addictive and interfere with the development of healthy self-esteem. Compliments and insults are someone else’s opinion. Teach your kids that no one’s opinion of them matters more than their own. The ability to self -validate is a characteristic of healthy self-esteem. Ever heard of a finsta account? It is a fake account a teen, tween or adolescent might set up to hide certain content. Many kids have fake accounts. The only answer to this is to work towards a trusting relationship with your child so they don’t feel the need to hide things from you. You can also limit how much unmonitored time they have on their devices. I suggest having a technology contract with your child and setting up clear expectations and boundaries. If they go against it, there’s no need to get angry, just refer to the contract and follow through on the predetermined consequences. Technology is complicated! So is adolescence, and so is parenting. The best advice I can give is to be an authoritative parent. This means that you are nurturing, loving, and encourage open conversation about the tough stuff, but you also establish firm family limits and rules. When parents listen to understand and don’t react with anger, it helps children feel safer to share what’s real in their online and offline worlds. Marcey Heschel B.A, M.A., LPCA Marcey Heschel Wellness Counseling & Psychotherapy PLLC MarceyHeschel.com

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Walk your pet in the grass, if possible, to avoid hot surfaces burning their paws. If your pet is outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of cool water. Don’t leave pets unsupervised around a pool—they aren’t all good swimmers. Watch your pets at a backyard barbecue. Keep them away from the grill. Watch for heat stroke, which is a common problem for pets in warmer weather.

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Three Ideal Jobs for Teens Having a job helps teens learn money management ARTICLE BY AMANDA CREASEY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

All parents want the best for their children, and typically share the common goal of preparing their kids to thrive as productive and capable adults. One of the most important skills parents can impart to their children is financial responsibility. Allowing kids to manage their own money before they leave home can help them understand not only how to save it, but also how to spend it responsibly. Providing the opportunity for children to earn their own money also allows them to feel proud of their earnings, and increases their motivation to be savvy spenders and savers. Teens who work for their money often learn not only good money

F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | PR OFE S S I ONAL S E RVI CE S

management skills, but also social skills, workplace readiness skills, and a sense of pride and independence. Opportunities abound for teens to earn their own paychecks. Consider the following options. 1. Run Errands With the world slowly returning to normal, people are once again busy with professional and personal obligations. Finding time to grocery shop, mail packages, or run other necessary errands can be challenging. Teens who drive or live within walking distance of local businesses might consider starting their own

errand-running service. Such a service would help teens get to know their neighbors, teach them money management skills, and help them understand how to efficiently navigate their locality and its businesses. It could also equip them with a better understanding of the basic responsibilities of adulthood, such as how to plan a grocery list and ascertain the best value. In addition, this endeavor allows for a flexible schedule, providing teens an opportunity to hone time management skills and allowing them to accommodate their school, social, and extracurricular activities schedule. 2. Tutor Academically minded teens could start their own tutoring business or work for one of the many local tutoring organizations in Cypress. Teens could offer homework help and other academic support in their own homes, in clients’ homes, virtually using the Internet, or, if they work for a local tutoring franchise, on site. This role allows teens not only to earn and manage their own money, but also to better understand their own academic subjects as they figure out ways to teach the information to others. In the process of helping their clients, they also solidify the skills and information for themselves. In addition, this altruistic role provides the benefit of being of service to others, a feeling many teens find fulfilling. It can also look great on a college application. 3. Referee or Coach Youth Sports If your teen enjoys playing or watching sports, the perfect role can be found at a youth sports club like i9 Sports, where teens can work as coaches or referees for a variety of different sports. Being good at the sport is not a requirement. All a teen needs to succeed as an employee of i9 is a

“One of the most important skills parents can impart to their children is financial responsibility. Allowing kids to manage their own money before they leave home can help them understand not only how to save it, but also how to spend it responsibly.”

solid work ethic, the ability to learn, and a positive attitude. Sports clinics and camps run during the week and leagues play on the weekends all year round. Employees can referee for the leagues on the weekends and coach at clinics and camps throughout the week, selecting which days and times they’re available to work. This degree of flexibility allows them to earn money and manage their own schedule–all while engaging in a sport they enjoy.

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Our Kids and the Pets Who Love Them Ricky Bobby & Julia

Reagan & Nova Reign

Nora & Charlie

The love we experience from our children and furry friends brightens our lives with joy and is truly something to be cherished. To celebrate this connection, we asked you all to send us your sweetest photos of your kiddos with their four-legged friends. Well, the photos are in and we couldn’t be happier. We hope you enjoy this amazing collection of cuteness.

ARTICLE BY ERICA HERNANDEZ

O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

Julia, Monty & Michael Rolex & Brinley David & Ginger

Lucy, Kelsey & Lucky Priya & Tucker Daniel, Tunder & Gabriel

Piper & Charlotte

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GROWING HEARTS, MINDS, AND DREAMS ARTICLE BY CHELSEA DILLON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

CYPRESS SURVIVOR SERVES AS A NATIONAL AMBASSADOR FOR THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Just because you have a special condition doesn’t mean you can’t have an amazing life. That’s the personal philosophy of Alexa, a soon-to-be CFISD middle school student born with a congenital heart defect (CHD). At just 7 years old, Alexa was selected as the National Ambassador for the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge (KHC), becoming the face and voice of all AHA school initiatives across the country. “Being an ambassador has been a really fun adventure,” says Alexa. “It opened so many doors and opportunities, and I have met some cool heart heroes that are brave like me. Kids are learning to keep theirs and other’s hearts healthy.” Alexa was born with Tetralogy of Fallot and pulmonary atresia – a hole in her heart and a missing valve. 1 in 100 children are born with CHD, impacting more than 40,000 babies each year. Thanks to advocacy work from the AHA for health screenings while in utero and investments in research, Alexa’s mom, Tamila, knew about the abnormality before giving birth. Before her first birthday, Alexa had surgery to close the hole, and two open heart surgeries followed to address the valve. Eventually, she will need another surgery near adulthood. But doctors are optimistic that by the time that need arises, advancements in surgical techniques will result in a much less invasive surgery.

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

CHD has never slowed her down, though. Alexa loves gymnastics, riding her bike, arts & crafts, tie-dye, and sparkly things! “She is a full-of-life, dynamic little girl, and she is blossoming before my eyes,” says mom Tamila. Once the year-long ambassadorship came to an end, Alexa continued to serve as a Youth Heart Ambassador for KHC, filming pep talk videos to inspire millions of students. “To get a video from Alexa is a big deal,” says Lisa Fletcher, AHA Youth Market Director, Greater Houston, who nominated Alexa for the ambassadorship. “Kids all over the country know her face and her story. She does an amazing job of encouraging students to keep up their great work raising awareness to help heart heroes like her.” “I’m living my best life. I want to inspire others to embrace who they are. Be the best version of yourself!” says Alexa. Cy-Fair ISD currently has 22 schools involved in KHC and boasts the #1 fundraising school in Texas, #3 nationally. But it’s about more than just raising money. Students learn the importance of activity, sleep, drinking water, and saying no to tobacco and vaping, along with values like kindness and gratitude. “These programs help all students to flourish,” says Tamila. And if Alexa is any indication of success – Cy-Fair, we’re rocking it! To get involved or learn more, visit Heart.org/KHC.

“I’M LIVING MY BEST LIFE. I WANT TO INSPIRE OTHERS TO EMBRACE WHO THEY ARE. BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOURSELF!” — Alexa

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / CY P R E S S

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The Good Karma Gift Shop on Mueschke Road supports Family Ties

Hope Through Healing ARTICLE BY ERICA HERNANDEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICA HERNANDEZ | FOX TAIL FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Family Ties crisis center helps kids and families find success

Family Ties staffer celebrate the opening of the organization's Good Karma Gift Shop

G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S

Heather Stautmeister

Five years ago, Heather Stautmeister found out homeless teenagers were living at nearby truck stops along Highway 290 in Waller. Wanting to help, she spoke with the Waller High School principal who opened the campus for the students to shower and rest before class. Still, it wasn’t enough. Heather, who founded the Family Ties non-profit, knew the teens were abandoned by their families, lonely and desperate for help. But in rural Waller, a farm region just north of Cypress’ suburbs, no shelters existed for homeless youth. That’s what inspired Heather to do something great. She would create a home for these kids, a safe haven where they could sleep, eat, do their homework and get job training all under one roof. A VISION BECOMES REALITY In 2018, that dream became reality when Heather won a grant to build a 12-bed facility that would not only house homeless teens, it would give them a place to find success. “We know these kids want to excel and have a happy life,” Heather says. “Unfortunately, they don’t have the support to do that. The Mueller House was created to support that mission.” The home, dubbed The Mueller House after the organization that funded its construction, is slated to open by year's end. The home will be run by Family Ties, where Heather serves as the executive director. The group aims to help kids and families recover from family violence or other trauma. THE FAMILY TIES STORY While running a youth shelter will be a new endeavor for Heather, rescuing families from crisis is a familiar journey. She started Family Ties as a solo therapist in 2007 to help victims of abuse recover from their trauma. Sometimes it was lending a shoulder to cry on and other times it was attending court hearings to offer personal support to victims. Since then, Family Ties has grown into a 12-member team of therapists and staffers who help people move past

their victimization into a new way of life. They serve people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault or are at risk for human trafficking. The staff offers free counseling and representation to guide victims as they navigate the state’s complex social and judicial systems. They also refer clients to other agencies to help them get temporary housing, food or medical treatment. “Providing hope for healing is such an important piece of what we do,” Heather says. “A lot of times we get stuck on what happened to somebody as opposed to what happens on the other side.” Preventing violence is also a critical part of the Family Ties mission. In addition to victim services, the group teaches a host of school-based training focused on anger management, anti-bullying and character education. FUNDING THE NEED While all services are free to their clients, Family Ties must regularly fundraise to meet its growing need for services. This year, Heather hopes to raise $50,000 through Family Ties annual casino night, an entertaining evening of casino-style games, raffles, a silent auction and delicious foods. The event will be held September 10 at 15 Acres, a luxurious new family-owned wedding venue in Hockley. Proceeds from the night will go to support opening the Mueller House. Recently, they also opened the Good Karma Gift Shop at 16431 Mueschke Rd. Suite 160, Cypress, which sells handmade crafts and candles as a way to support the Family Ties mission. Heather encourages anyone who wishes to get involved to donate their time or services to Family Ties. “We know that violence affects the community at large and we want a partnership with the community,” Heather says. “Whether it’s through volunteerism, financial support or providing education.” FamilyTiesFRS.org 2114 Field Store Road Waller 936-931-2299 AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / CY P R E S S

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Breaking the Ice Yeti Sno owners create community connections while keeping Cypress area residents cool with tasty snow cone concoctions

At first, Michelle Gardner wasn’t entirely sure about the reality of her husband Josh’s dream of owning a shaved ice business. Josh Gardner had just retired from playing professional soccer and was contemplating his family’s next big adventure. He felt certain that this would be a memorable journey for them. “I found out later that my husband had developed the business name and concept and had even drawn the Yeti Sno logo eight years before we really started talking about it,” said Michelle. “Once he started talking about leaving a legacy for our children and teaching them valuable life skills, I knew I needed to get on board.” Yeti Sno is a Cypress-area snow cone food truck business owned and operated by Bridgeland residents Michelle, Josh, and their five children. With a food truck obtained from a family friend who owns Josh’s Sno Shack in Oklahoma, Michelle and Josh serve the community by taking their beloved snow cone truck to events like

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON RASKE

LOCA L’S CH OICE | EVENT PLANNI NG + S E RVI CE S

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / CY P R E S S

birthday parties, swim meets, anniversaries, graduation parties, neighborhood events, celebrations of life and more. “We hope to not only bring a little positivity to our local community through our food truck, but we’re working to teach our children valuable life skills,” said Michelle. “From practicing math by calculating the amount of change to give to a customer to setting goals, our children love working in the snow cone truck and they’re learning skills that can benefit them down the road.” In addition to enriching the lives of their children, Yeti Sno has quickly developed into an opportunity to create greater connections within their local community. From meeting families and interacting with people through various organizations, they’ve been able to spread the power of positivity through their business. “There are a lot of sad things happening right now with people feeling isolated and alone,” said Michelle. “We feel that people need a lot of love right now and if we can share our love through our little snow cone business, then we’ve done something we can feel good about. We love to bring a little light to the people around us and break down the barriers that people put up.” In addition to sharing a positive message, Michelle and Josh want to find other ways to give back to the community and hope to start extending their reach into working with more local nonprofit organizations in the area. “We’ve been delightfully surprised by the community connections we’ve made by doing this,” said Michelle. “It’s really been a gift.” Yeti Sno offers more than twenty flavors of shaved ice and even boasts a flavor called “Josh’s Mix” that’s comprised of top-secret ingredients. In addition to a variety of flavors, they also have three flavors of dye-free snow cones, which are ideal for special events like wedding receptions or parties. Yeti Sno (818) 621-1931 Facebook.com/Yeti.Sno7

LOCA L’S CH OICE | EV ENT PLANNI NG + S E RVI CE S

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realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Cypress. N E I GH BO RH O O D

LIST PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SP / L P

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Blackhorse Ranch

$2,499,000

$2,460,000

98%

240

8.5

Bridgeland

$1,810,000

$1,850,000

102%

5.5

Towne Lake

$1,550,950

100%

187

5.5

Bridgeland

$1,500,000

100%

5.5

Towne Lake

$1,200,000

100%

6.5

Towne Lake

$1,150,000

$1,125,000

98%

4.5

Towne Lake

$1,057,164

$1,070,216

101%

5.5

Bridgeland

$995,000

$1,015,053

102%

4.5

Bridgeland

$1,100,000

$1,000,000

91%

5.5

Towne Lake

$950,000

$960,000

101%

5.5

Towne Lake

$875,000

$900,000

103%

3.5

Bridgeland

$894,430

$894,490

100%

Lakes of Fairhaven

$882,000

$885,000

100%

4.5

Lakes of Fairhaven

$850,000

$880,000

104%

4.5

Lakes of Fairhaven

$825,000

$867,500

105%

4.5

This reflects a 30-Day time period prior to our print deadline. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of activity. *DOM = Days on Market

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / CY P R E S S

AUGUST 2022

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AU G U ST 4 T H

Meet Shane McAulifee, Host of The Texas Bucket List

H CA HOUSTON N ORTH CY PRES S | 7 :0 0 P M Cy-Fair Women’s Club features a presentation from Shane McAuliffe, host of The Texas Bucket List . Shane’s popular television program highlights the “joy, wonder, beauty, and excitement of Texas.” Attendance is free. RSVP to programs@cyfairwomensclub.org.

AU G U ST 6T H

Cy-Fair Helping Hands Back to School Bash

9606 KIRKTON DR, HOUSTON | 9 :0 0 A M Open to all CFISD students, enjoy carnival games, face painting, food trucks and more. Backpacks for of school supplies will be passed out to children who attend. CyFairHelpingHands.org

AU G U ST 2 6T H

FACES 11th Annual Sporting Clays Shoot

AMER ICAN S HOOTIN G CEN TER S , H O USTO N | 9 :0 0 A M Come out with your friends or colleagues to enjoy a day of shooting! Attendees will be socred individually but you can also shoot in a team. Open to shooters of all experience levels. A limited number of loaner guns are available if you reach out to FACES prior to the event. FACES4Autism.org

AU G U ST 2 7 T H

Cy-Ranch Cheerleading Clinic for Kids

CY-R AN CH HIG H S CHOOL | 8 :3 0 A M Join the Cy-Ranch High School Cheerleaders for a fun morning learning cheers, dances, and jumps! Clinic includes instruction from the cheerleaders, an event T-shirt, snacks, and a photo with the Mustang mascots. Open to kids K-6 with all abilities and skill levels. Doors open at 8:30AM for check-in and parents watch a performance at noon. Ask about the VIP experience! Sign up at Bit.ly/cypressranchcheer.

AU G UST 2 8T H

Charity Cornhole Tournament to support Cy-Fair Helping Hands

BREW:30 TAPHOUS E | 1:00 PM Enjoy a cornhole tournament and awesome raffle prizes with proceeds benefiting Cy-Fair Helping Hands. Entry for two-man teams is $40. CFHH brings hope to the homeless and hungry in our area relies on you, our community, to provide that much needed helping hand. Brew20Taphouse.com

AU G U ST 3 1 ST

Cy-Fair Educational Foundation - Inaugural Sporting Clay Tournament

WESTS IDE S PORTIN G G R OUN DS , KAT Y | 1 1 :0 0 A M Support Cy-Fair Educational Foundation by watching this exciting tournament! Sporting clay teams will move through challenging clay target stations that simulate field shooting. There will also be a catered meal and raffle for attendees to participate in. TheCFEF.org

EVE N TS