AUGUST 2020
CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
Kids & Pets
Leading Medicine
NOW OPEN
IN TOWNE LAKE
Comprehensive care — now in Cypress.
• Cardiology • Neurology • Orthopedics and sports medicine • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE GROUP AND SPECIALTY PHYSICIAN GROUP
TOWNE
We offer the following services: • Plastic and reconstructive surgery • Primary care • Women’s services, including mammography
BARKER CYPRESS RD.
Now open, Houston Methodist in Towne Lake offers primary care and specialty care, as well as mammograms and physical therapy — all close to home. And, you can be confident that we are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe during your visit.
LAKE PK WY.
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Visit houstonmethodist.org/towne-lake for information on locations and a full list of services.
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3
LIFESTYLE LETTER
AUGUST 2020 PUBLISHER
Peggy Garner | peggy.garner@lifestylepubs.com MANAGING EDITOR
Erica Hernandez | erica.hernandez@lifestylepubs.com PHOTO EDITOR
These are the kiddos and critters who inspire us CYPRESS, THIS ISSUE IS QUITE THE TREAT! We have rounded up the most inspiring stories about kiddos and critters we could find and put them in these pages for you to enjoy. This month we celebrate our youth, whose perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit are an example to us all. We’re recognizing Nia Phillips, a 17-year-old Cypress Lakes High School senior, who launched her own beauty brand and gained a major invest-
Shannon Valentine | shannon.valentine@lifestylepubs.com SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Samantha Eklund | samantha.eklund@lifestylepubs.com ACCOUNT MANAGER
Bethany Alexander | bethany.alexander@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER
Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erica Hernandez, Hannah Kothari
ment from national business leaders. We also recognize our first-time contributing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
teen writer, Hannah Kothari, who tells a firsthand account of how her little brother’s
Shannon Valentine | Lunalux, Robin Turell, Josh Olalde
untimely death became a catalyst for helping hospitalized children. Then, there are some heartwarming tales about a Cypress animal sanctuary where llamas, alpacas and other four-legged friends find their forever home. We can’t wait for you to meet Wilma the three-legged tortoise on page 16. This August also marks our second birthday for Cypress Lifestyle! That’s two years of telling positive stories of our community written by people who live and work here. And boy, has it been fun!
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Take this month to spoil your little ones, whether they walk on two legs or four, as summer comes to a close and we watch them all get a little bit bigger and a little bit wiser. Enjoy! Erica Hernandez, Managing Editor ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
CityLifestyle.com/Cypress ON THE COVER Figment Ranch PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN TURELL 4
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
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 areas’ 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 accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
It takes all 16,705 of us to be ranked one of the nation’s best. We’re not just the largest children’s hospital in America. For 12 straight years, we’ve also been recognized as one of the best by U.S. News & World Report. This year, we’re ranked #4 overall and in the top five in seven specialties—including #1 in pediatric cardiology and heart surgery. It takes great technology, facilities and expertise to be recognized year after year, but the most important thing it takes is great people. People who care deeply about caring for children. And we’re honored that so many people like that choose to work here.
Learn more at TexasChildrens.org/best
© 2020 Texas Children’s Hospital. All rights reserved.
INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2020
FEATURES 12 Harrison’s Heroes Group Delivers Happiness to Children’s Extended Hospital Stays
16 A Dreamy Llama Ranch Escape Animal Sanctuary Offers Tranquility for Rescued Pets and Human Visitors
20 Teen Beauty Business Queen Cypress Teen Entrepreneur Garners National Attention with Ni’Abri Beauty Brand
16 20
22 Money Matters for Kids Help Your Kids Manage Money with These Helpful Tips
12
22
DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Around Town
12
Giving Back
16
Animal Kingdom
20 Local Limelight 22 Financial Buzz 26 Locals Only 29 DIY 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Locally Owned
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7
AROUND TOWN sciences at Texas A&M University. She later aspired of becoming a registered dietician through the Army, however, her plans changed, leading her to be a part of the special oath ceremony.
NOW OPEN – SLEEK CREPERIE | CAFÉ Sleek Creperie | Café is a luxury chocolate, gourmet coffee and creperie shop located in Fairfield Town Center. The café serves breakfast and lunch all day. The menu includes sweet and savory crepes, soups, salads, sandwiches, waffles, and handcrafted gourmet chocolates. Owner, Jisha
CLASS OF 2020 GRADUATES APPOINTED TO U.S. SERVICE ACADEMIES
Iyer, was a CFISD special education teacher for 15
Three CFISD graduates from the Class of 2020
years who recently left the district to open Sleek.
have received appointments to attend United
SleekChoclatierCafeFairfield.com
States service academies. Cy-Falls High School graduate Jayden Goodwin was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. Cy-Ranch High School graduate Shadiya Thomas was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Cy-Woods High School graduate Garrett Braunton was also appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy.
CY-RIDGE ALUM SIGNS WITH HOUSTON ASTROS FOLLOWING 2020 MLB DRAFT Cy-Ridge High School alumnus Kyle Gruller signed with the Houston Astros as an undrafted free agent on June 18 following the conclusion of the 2020 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. MLB revamped the draft due to the COVID-
CY-RANCH ALUMNA TAKES ARMY OATH VIA INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION
40 rounds to just five on June 10-11. He’s among 13 draftees and undrafted free agents signed to
Cy-Ranch High School 2012 graduate Amber
the Astros as of June 23. A 6-foot-3, right-handed
Cobena took her Army oath of enlistment at
pitcher, Gruller recently completed his collegiate
Johnson Space Center from U.S. Army Col. and
career at Houston Baptist University.
NASA astronaut Andrew Morgan, who was on board the International Space Station. This event was the first time the oath was administered nation-
8
19 pandemic, reducing the event from its typical
CY-WOODS HS STUDENTS WIN HP CODEWARS CHAMPIONSHIP
wide via a live stream from the ISS. After gradu-
A team of Cy-Woods High School students placed
ating from Cy-Ranch, Cobena studied nutritional
first overall at the HP CodeWars Championship,
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
which was held virtually this year due to COVID-19.
attend a DIY Home Decor classroom conducted
The team, consisting of juniors Zeki Gurbez and
by AR Workshop Cypress. This year, the show
Alex Haung and senior (now graduated) Steven
will offer both on-site and virtual opportunities to
Cheng, scored 237 points (a perfect score!) to earn
explore the number one home and garden show
first place in the Advanced Division in the 2020
in Cy-Fair! Enjoy visiting local celebrities, vendors,
contest and the most points scored by any team
food trucks and pick up a copy of Cypress Lifestyle!
competing in this year’s competition. CodeWars is
CyFairHomeandGarden.com
a computer science competition where students solve as many programming problems as possible in three hours.
MAGPIES GIFTS IS NOW THE BROOK HOME AND GIFT CAVITY PATROL PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY TREATS KIDS AND SUPPORTS CY-HOPE
years. When the opportunity presented itself to
Dzhuliya
purchase the Cypress location, they jumped at
Servetnik opened Cavity Patrol Pediatric Dentistry
the chance and renamed the boutique The Brook
at 7914 Fry Rd, Suite 280. They treat children ages
Home and Gift. Located at 12344 Barker Cypress
0-18 years and offer all the dental services a child
Rd Suite 160, they still offer beautiful, high-quality
may need. Both doctors immigrated to the US
home decor, clothing, jewelry and gifts and the
at a young age, grew up in underserved house-
helpful staff is staying the same. The website is
holds and benefited from community programs
coming soon but you can keep up with new arrivals
as children. They have partnered with Cy-Hope
at Facebook.com/TheBrookHomeandGift
Doctors
Chun Yin Wong
Mother-daughter duo Chrissy Hignet and Ally Haygood have worked at Magpies Gifts for many
and
because its mission is so personal to them. For every new patient they will donate a backpack filled with groceries to help feed Cy-Fair children. CavityPatrolPediatricDentistry.com
CY-FAIR HOME & OUTDOOR LIVING SHOW ANNOUNCES RESCHEDULED DATE The Cy-Fair Home & Outdoor Living Show announces its rescheduled date! The event will take place September 19-20, at the Berry Center and showcases local vendors who will help you create, update and renovate your home and outdoor living space. You’ll also meet other local
Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love
businesses offering a variety of products and ser-
to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/
vices you never knew you needed! See Dr. Lori’s
Cypress using the Get In Touch link and let us know
Antique Appraisal Comedy Shows (via Zoom) or
what you think. CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
9
Baker-Foreman Team Your Cy-Fair Area Real Estate Advisors
REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD
CYPRESS
ORIGINAL PRICE
SOLD PRICE
%SOLD/ORIG
DOM
BDRMS
BATHS
Saddle Ridge Estates
$1,799,000
$1,700,000
95%
3
5
4/1
Towne Lake
$895,000
$895,000
100%
4
5
5/5
Cypress Creek Ranch
$795,000
$725,000
91%
13
5
4/2
Towne Lake River Bend
$725,000
$704,000
97%
15
5
4/1
Lakes of Fairhaven
$699,000
$699,000
100%
2
6
4/5
Lakes of Fairhaven
$659,000
$640,000
97%
7
4
4/1
Lakes of Fairhaven
$639,900
$610,000
95%
31
4
3/5
Towne Lake
$595,000
$587,000
99%
38
6
5/1
Lakewood Oak Estates
$585,000
$568,000
97%
46
5
4/3
Longwood
$560,000
$536,600
96%
7
4
3/5
Rock Creek
$551,000
$551,000
100%
2
4
3/5
Bridgeland
$550,000
$550,000
100%
6
4
4/1
Hidden Arbor
$540,000
$540,000
100%
2
5
4/1
Blackhorse Ranch
$498,000
$498,000
100%
16
4
3/1
Cypress Creek Lakes
$449,900
$445,000
99%
2
4
3
Longwood
$379,900
$375,000
99%
18
4
3/5
BlackHorse Ranch
$379,900
$379,900
100%
1
4
3
Bridgeland
$349,000
$349,000
100%
4
4
3
Fairfield
$345,000
$340,000
99%
45
5
3/5
Tuscany
$339,500
$325,500
96%
3
4
3
Longwood Village
$325,000
$319,000
98%
18
4
2/5
Coles Crossing
$318,000
$318,000
100%
1
4
2
Bridgeland
$299,000
$307,316
103%
2
3
2/5
This reflects a 30 day time period prior to our print deadline. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of all activity. *DOM=Days on Market
CALL FOR A
COMPLIMENTARY MARKET ANALYSIS OF YOUR HOME
281-687-8077
www.BHHSPreProperties.com
GIVING BACK
harrison’s heroes
n Ha h na d an Sa
n
dy
Ko th ar
i
A SISTER HONORS HER LITTLE BROTHER BY DELIVERING HAPPINESS TO CHILDREN IN EXTENDED STAY HOSPITALS
12
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
THE RAIN FELL IN SLOW PATTERNS THAT
on his small chest, listening to the beat of
EVENING, EACH DROP FALLING HARDER
his heart grow slower, until it came to a
THAN THE LAST. The phone, ringing louder
complete stop. As I heard everyone’s tears
than usual, startled me while I attempted to
fall around me, I couldn’t help but realize
complete my first-grade homework. Little
how strong Harry had been during his
did I know this single call would change my
fight. He endured so much pain during his
life forever. My grandmother picked up the
two-month hospital stay, yet still managed
phone, and her face suddenly dropped. She
to smile. His bright and happy persona
told me we had to drive to the hospital to see
never faded.
Harry, my two-year-old brother.
After Harry’s passing in 2010, my family
When we arrived at Harry’s hospital room,
was devastated. My mother soon came up
my 7-year-old mind could sense something
with the brilliant idea to channel our negative
was off. The usual smile on my mother’s
emotions into something positive. In 2014,
face was gone. My little brother’s room was
we started hosting small parties for children
crowded with family. A nurse, whose face I
with extensive stays at Children’s Memorial
had never seen, took me aside and sat me
Hermann. The next year, my parents and I
down beside my sleeping brother. She told
decided to formally start a non-profit organi-
me the worst news I have ever received in
zation in memory of Harry, my favorite hero.
my life, “I’m afraid that today is the last day
We named it Harrison’s Heroes.
that you will see your brother. He’s not going to make it.”
Since the official launch of the foundation, Harrison’s Heroes has hosted countless
Before doctors discovered a cyst forming
themed parties for both Children’s Memorial
in Harry’s brain, he was an active child, con-
Hermann and Texas Children’s Hospital. From
stantly moving and playing. But after Harry’s
Valentine’s Day to Halloween, no child spends
brain surgery, he was bedridden. This was
a holiday without a celebration. My personal
difficult for a playful two-year-old, how-
favorites are the Halloween parties. Every year,
ever, my family discovered creative ways to
all of the doctors and nurses dress up in fun
combat his boredom. We brought toys and
costumes, the patients get their faces painted,
stuffed animals from home, coloring books
wear temporary tattoos and create faux
and markers. We brought crafting supplies
pumpkin carvings. It is so rewarding to see the
like beads to make necklaces and Playdoh.
smiles on the patients’ faces and to know that
On the last day I spent with Harry in his hospital room, I remember laying my head
we helped make their tough hospital stay just a little bit better.
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE HANNAH KOTHARI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
13
GIVING BACK (CONTINUED) Another favorite annual tradition is creating and distributing Thanksgiving goodie bags. For the first few years, my mother and I would package hundreds of goodie bags by hand. Each bag contained different toys and activities based on the age of the patient. For younger children, we included coloring books, stuffed toys, and some Thanksgivingthemed crafts. For older children, we included novels, puzzles, fun animal hats and crafts. Then, on Thanksgiving Day, my family and I spend hours traversing every floor in Texas Children’s Hospital. We go room to room, handing out goodie bags and putting smiles on the children’s faces. This event is especially important to Harrison’s Heroes, as Harrison had his extended stay during Thanksgiving 2010. My family understands how difficult it is for each family with a child in the hospital during the holiday season. Eventually, we enlisted the help of Deacons of Deadwood, a motorcycle club that supports Houston-area children’s charities. Every year in the fall, the Deacons ride their motorcycles in to help package hundreds of goodie bags. It is by far one of the most exciting events of the year for Harrison’s Heroes. Hospitals are a scary place for young children, so Harrison’s Heroes hopes to make a child’s stay more enjoyable through the small details in everyday hospital life. Our group created a special Band-Aid book containing hundreds of themed Band-Aids from Star Wars to Hello Kitty to Thomas the Train. For patients who have IVs, we provide Medi-Teddys, a stuffed bear that conceals an IV bag. We also offer interactive hospital bedsheets to help patients pass the time. From scavenger hunts to mazes, the colorful bed sheets help to bring a little more normalcy into a child’s life. Through Harrison’s Heroes, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to witness other kids’ happiness as we deliver gifts and goodies to their rooms. Their faces light up as they see us approaching and when each child smiles, I know that Harrison is still with me in the best way possible: through the joy of others. To donate, visit www.harrisonsheroes.org, or find us Instagram @harrisonsheroeshouston. 14
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
“AS I HEARD EVERYONE’S TEARS FALL AROUND ME, I COULDN’T HELP BUT REALIZE HOW STRONG HARRY HAD BEEN DURING HIS FIGHT WITH BRAIN CANCER. HE ENDURED SO MUCH PAIN, YET STILL MANAGED TO SMILE. HIS BRIGHT AND HAPPY PERSONA NEVER FADED.”
Harrison (Harry) Kothari
HARRISON’S HEROES Harrison’s Heroes accepts donations year-round. Each donation, big or small, can make a huge impact on a child’s hospital stay. $10 provides four children at MD Anderson a pair of socks, $20 provides 10 children with hats, $50 provides five Thanksgiving goodie bags, and $100 provides 200 cans of Playdoh. Our mission is to comfort the kids undergoing extensive stays in Houston-area hospitals and bring happiness into their day. CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
15
ANIMAL KINGDOM
Animal Sanctuary FIGMENT RANCH OFFERS A HAVEN FOR RESCUED LLAMAS, ALPACAS, GOATS AND OTHER UNIQUE ANIMALS
FIGMENT RANCH IS A SLICE OF SERENITY ON THE EDGE OF THE SUBURBS. A country paradise where animals roam freely in their forever home and visitors ease their worries by befriending curious llamas and fluffy alpacas. The 20-acre animal sanctuary on Mueschke Road is bordered by Little Cypress Creek, dotted with sprawling oaks, a small pond and a party pavilion. It’s a picturesque place for kid birthday parties, intimate weddings, fashionable photography and small tours. A small, on-site cottage offers brides a place to prep for their big day or a rest stop for weary travelers eager to escape their everyday lives. More than 70 llamas and alpacas wander the property and happily greet any humans they encounter. About 30 other animals - from mini pigs to a Turkey named Strutter - also call the ranch home. Some were abused. Many are old. Most were rescued from precarious previous lives.
ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY SHANNON VALENTINE | LUNALUX, JOSH OLALDE 16
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
Every animal has a story, and most everyone has a name. There’s Crooked Face, a kind, elderly llama who suffered a
Ruby’s dream never faded. Today, Figment Ranch owes its name to Ruby’s girlhood dream.
stroke, but still adores kids and treats. There’s Mira the sheep,
Now, the ranch animals serve a higher purpose.
a high-school Future Farmers of America project who was
Ruby, who has multiple sclerosis, bought her first llama
left at Figment Ranch after her owner learned she was to be
from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 30 years
slaughtered at the end of the program. And there’s Wilma, a
ago and quickly learned it was therapeutic. The llama
three-legged, 60-pound tortoise with a cracked shell.
seemed to sense her pain and help her cope with her
“There are all special reasons why we have them,” says
condition. Ruby and Robin now share their love of lla-
Ruby Herron, one of the ranch owners. “They find a forever
mas with others who might also need therapy. They’ve
home here in most cases.”
offered yoga onsite and often invite children or adults
Ruby and her fellow ranch owners, Robin Turell and
with special needs to visit.
Sean Price, work around-the-clock to feed, care for and fund the animals every need. Sometimes, new owners step up to adopt the animals. Other times, the creatures are too old or disabled and end up staying at the ranch. “I think that’s our mission,” Ruby says. “I think God wants us to rescue some of these animals and get them out of bad situations.”
“I th in k G o d wan t s us to re scue so me o f th e se an imals an d get th em o ut of b ad situa tio n s.”
The ranch was a longtime dream for Ruby, who grew up without running water in the impoverished oil fields of East Texas. As a girl, she doctored injured animals and believed
“This is really like a little slice of heaven here,” Robin says. “You’re just at ease when you’re here.”
that the creatures are a spiritual “connection to God and
Those who do visit, find it soothing to pet the animals
your soul.” She always wanted a property of her own that
and learn more about them. Robin, a retired special-needs
wasn’t steeped in poverty where she could care for her
teacher, often gives impromptu lessons on how to feed
beloved pets. Her father dismissed her idea though calling
or treat the animals kindly. It’s all about making the
it a “figment” of her imagination. Decades would pass, but
human-animal relationship better.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
17
ANIMAL KINGDOM (CONTINUED)
“I love seeing animals happy,” Robin says. “I think they deserve to be happy just like we deserve to be happy.” A final stop for any ranch visitor is a trip to the gift shop. Here, visitors can purchase anything from llama-themed jewelry and T-shirts to hand-made rugs woven from Figment Ranch llama and alpaca fibers. Alpaca fiber shawls, tapestries, stuffed animals and felted soaps are also available for purchase. Years ago, the owners established a non-profit organization to help defray the costs of upkeep. They rely on donations and money from tours or events to bring in revenues, but times are tough. Since the rapid spread of coronavirus this year, they’ve offered fewer private tours, smaller events and take extra precautions to keep the animals and human visitors safe. They even offer virtual tours where viewers can watch the animals up close and ask questions. In the end, Ruby and Robin hope those who visit - whether virtually or in person - experience the same serenity and safety they do every day. “When I am here,” Robin says. “There is total peace.” Purchase a one-of-a-kind rug, shedule an event or book an interactive tour. All proceeds help fund the animals. wellfare. FigmentRanch.org 18
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
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LOCAL LIMELIGHT
CYPRESS TEEN ENTREPRENEUR GARNERS NATIONAL ATTENTION WITH NI’ABRI BEAUTY BRAND
TEEN BEAUTY BUSINESS QUEEN ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY SHANNON VALENTINE WHILE MOST KIDS HER AGE WERE PLANNING HOW
product is named after an empowering character trait
TO DO A PROMPOSAL OR FIGURE OUT THEIR GEOM-
such as “self-respect” or “inner beauty.”
ETRY HOMEWORK, NIA PHILLIPS WAS CALLING LIP
“I really hope that people get a sense of self-worth and
GLOSS MANUFACTURERS WHO MIGHT MASS-PRO-
inner happiness,” she says. “Something they’ll be able to
DUCE HER VEGAN BEAUTY PRODUCTS.
put on and say, ‘I feel good. I feel content with myself.’”
Nia, a 17-year-old teen entrepreneur, finally did find
Nia had always been a fan of lip gloss, so she started
a manufacturer and - with a little help from her mom -
watching YouTube videos on how to hand-make her prod-
launched her own beauty brand that’s gained national
uct. She signed up for business classes and dreamed of
attention and investments from the owners of McDonald’s.
launching her own business. At first, she’d start small and
On an average month, the Cypress Lakes High School
sell just to friends - or so she thought. But after Nia chat-
senior ships 5,000 lip glosses and beauty products from
ted with her mom about her hopes of becoming a teen
her home, employs her sister as a warehouse manager
entrepreneur, her mother made bigger plans.
and works closely under the watchful eyes of her toy
Then, at Nia’s sixteenth birthday party - where everyone
poodle, Nugget. All this while she managing friendships,
expected her to receive a new car - her mom unveiled a
chores and typical teenage demands.
surprise. It wasn’t the keys to a new car. Instead, Nia was
“It can get difficult sometimes because you have to juggle being a business owner and going to school and doing your homework,” she says. Through her brand Ni’Abri Beauty, Nia’s sells Americanmade, cruelty-free vegan lip glosses and lipsticks. Each 20
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
gifted an established beauty line with products bearing her name, Ni’Abri Beauty. She was ecstatic. “(My mom) wanted me to have financial freedom,” Nia says. “She wanted me to be able to live my life the best way I can. Frankly, I think this is way better.”
Since then, Nia has been featured on Ebony. com, Black Enterprise and on the Tamron Hall Show. In February, Nia’s brand drew the attention of McDonald’s business owners Marla and Marissa Thrower. The business tycoons surprised Nia on national television with yet another twist in her business story; a $25,000 grant to take Ni’Abri Beauty to a new level. Nia is using the cash for new product packaging, business training and has plans to expand her product line to include blushes and makeup highlighters. She also chose to donate $3,000 of her grant to help three kid-owned, startup businesses. She created a competition and funded a teenage bath-bomb soapmaker, a 15-year-old jewelry maker and a 14-year-old duo who create and sell hobby subscription boxes. “I’m just taken aback by how much she has grown,” says Dedra Phillips, Nia’s mom. “How much she wants to give back, and how much she thinks about others.” Next, Nia wants to get her products into beauty stores like Ulta or Sephora and eventually establish her own Ni’Abri Beauty store. Her advice to other business owners? Get a mentor and establish a clear business vision - without it, a business won’t thrive. For Nia, it’s as simple as this: “I’m going to use this business to empower people. I want people to feel they are worth something.” NiAbriBeauty.com
“I REALLY HOPE THAT PEOPLE GET A SENSE OF SELF-WORTH AND INNER HAPPINESS.SOMETHING THEY’LL BE ABLE TO PUT ON AND SAY, ‘I FEEL GOOD. I FEEL CONTENT WITH MYSELF.”
CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
21
FINANCIAL BUZZ
budgeting for kids
TEACH YOUR KIDS ABOUT MANAGING MONEY WITH THESE HELPFUL TIPS
ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS 22
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO START TALKING WITH YOUR KIDDOS ABOUT MONEY. We asked Primeway Federal Credit Union’s chief marketing officer, Michelle Oshinski, for advice on how to teach children money management. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO TEACH KIDS ABOUT MONEY? Money doesn’t make us happy, but it does provide opportunity. A part of teaching children about money is helping them understand the importance of how education or advanced-trade training provides the ability to earn money. That is why PrimeWay offers a good grades program and scholarship opportunities for youth. HOW CAN WE TEACH KIDS TO BUDGET? Help your child prioritize what’s important. Always encourage 10% or more of any budget go toward long-term savings. Even if the deposit is only a dime, it is the consistency that’s important. One of the most difficult parts of teaching budgeting and saving is helping children deal with the need for immediate gratification. Creating an active visual display can help keep kids motivated. CAN YOU OFFER ANY PERSONAL EXAMPLES? When my son was four years old, he
ways to teach kids about money: TIP 1 Make it fun – celebrate new deposits or milestones. Everything from fist bumps to picking what to have for dinner with words of accolades can make a positive difference.
wanted a very expensive Star Wars Lego set. The orthodontist and I wanted my son to stop sucking his thumb. We agreed that if he could stop sucking his thumb for 30 days, he would earn the set. We divided the
TIP 2 Pay for chores and make those payments by transferring the money to a savings account.
cost of the set into portions and had a daily dollar-tracking chart. To reinforce how close he was, we took a picture of the set and cut it into 30 pieces. Each day he made progress, he added a piece to complete the picture next the dollar chart.
TIP 3 Help your child make smart buying decisions. Every time they save money through a smart decision, take the money saved and add it to a savings account. Help them to see the effects over time. PrimeWayFCU.com
CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
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FUN PAPER CRAFT PROJECTS FOR YOU + YOUR KIDDO ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN
M AT E R I A L S + Cardboard + White crepe paper + Construction paper + Glue + Scissors + Beads, yarn, pom poms, etc.
DIRECTIONS 1. Take your cardboard and cut two pieces into the shape of a llama (we found a stencil online). Then, cut strips of cardboard the depth you want your llama to be. You’ll connect these to either side of the llama cutouts to enclose your piñata. 2. Glue your strip of cardboard all along the edge of one side of your llama, then glue to the other side. (Be sure to leave a hole you can close up later so you can fill it with your favorite candy!)
PIÑLLAMA
3. Starting at the neck, cover the front, back and sides of your llama with white crepe paper, cutting a slit every half inch or so to create the traditional piñata look. 4. Cover all remaining sides the neck and head with white construction paper, cut to fit your design. 5. Using construction paper, beads, pom poms, tassels, buttons, etc., add some flair to the rest of your llama! Bonus points for incorporating different shapes and textures into your final product.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
29
DIY (CONTINUED)
M AT E R I A L S + Pink or coral construction paper + White construction paper + Black construction paper + Pink feathers + Glue + Scissors
DIRECTIONS 1. Using a stencil, cut out the pieces you’ll need for your flamingo from construction paper: Pink: 4-6 circles for the body (depending on how “fluffy” you want it), neck and legs White: Outline of the beak Black: Beak 2. Fold the circles in half and glue them all together back-to-back to create a sphere that looks like an accordion. 3. Glue the beak and white stripe to the neck, then glue the neck to a flat side of your inner-most circle. 4. Add the legs, a black dot for an eye and pink feathers for the ultimate flamin-goal.
30
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
FLAMING OA L S
COSMIC PENCIL CUP
M AT E R I A L S + Cardboard + Construction Paper + Glue + Scissors + Markers
DIRECTIONS 1. Cut out the shapes for your rocket ship. You’ll need: (2) rocket bodies for the front and back of your ship, (2) fins, (1) nozzle, (1) nose cone, (3) rectangles for your pencil cup, and any additional cutouts for decorations, like windows. 2. Glue the your rectangular pieces to one side of your rocket ship, then glue the back on. You should have an open spot at the top where your pencils will go. 3. Glue the rest of your pieces to the front of your rocket and add embellishments as desired. CityLifestyle.com/Cypress
31
AUGUST
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
3-5
Shelter & Rescue’s biggest annual
Boutique, Nestle's Toll House Cafe,
fundraiser.
Play
LIKE MIKE SUMMER BASKETBALL CAMP
them care for rescue animals, pur-
Freckles Boutique, Cherry Blow Dry
Funds
raised
helps
Museum
Cypress,
chase items needed to keep the
Bar and Learning Express will offer
Like Mike Basketball Academy
shelter running and cover emer-
special deals from 6PM - 9PM.
Summer Break Basketball Camp is
gency issues that may arise during
four days and will cover ball handling,
the year. WallerAnimalRescue.com
shooting, defense and passing. The basketball camp will help kids build on their skill sets and work on key fundamentals. The program is designed for all skill level from ages 6-17. Register at LikeMikeBasketballAcademy.com.
6 LINE DANCING FUN AT CY-FAIR WOMEN'S CLUB MONTHLY MEETING
16 NEW FAIRFIELD FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET Fairfield Town Center
Explore more than 50 local vendors
Berry Center
carrying everything from organic pro-
4
Line dancing is a unique form
duce, artisan breads, locally-sourced
of
heart-
cuisine, farm-fresh egss, local honey,
STORY TIME & TODDLER/PRESCHOOL MINI-DIYS!
healthy aerobic exercise while also
homemade and handcrafted items
allowing you to engage in a social
and more.
exercise
providing
activity. This is a low impact cardio
A|R Workshop Cypress
class which seems more like a night
Join us at AR Workshop for story time with
out with the ladies! No experience
Rebecca and bring your littles for a $5 mini-
is required. Instructor Antoinette
DIY! We'll read a few stories, sing a song,
(Tony)
then DIY a fun project! All ages are wel-
exercise instructor for 9 years.
come and you can choose to make more
CyFairWomensClub.org.
Shabazz
has
been
an
21 RECRUITING 101 WORKSHOP 6 PM TRAIN EVERY ATHLETE 16311 Dundee Rd #220
This class is for both parents and
than one project at the workshop. Pre-
7
players and will instruct you and
4
COMEDY NIGHT AT THE CYPRESS ALAMO
to record game film to contacting
12715 Telge Rd.
NEW WORKSHOP! JOIN TWOFER TUESDIY
best practices about the process
Need a little something to look
of steps for success. This workshop
forward to and enjoy some time
is for all sports. $20/per person.
A|R Workshop
with real human interaction and
TrainEveryAthlete.com
AR Workshop's offers a Two-fer DIY
lots of laughter? Join us for our
class to make a set of their most popu-
first ever Comedy Night featuring
lar wood or canvas projects. A set of 8"
SrlysMelissa. Tickets include Dinner
centerpiece boxes (also used for red solo
and the show. Cash Bar will be avail-
cup drink stations!), or 2 or 3 mini-trays,
able. Sales from the event benefit
canvas pillows, photo boards, 12" lazy
Cy-Hope. CypressAlamo.net
registration/pre-payment is requested, but not required. ARWorkshop.com/Cypress
your athlete on what it takes to be recruited properly. From how recruiters, our coaches will share
27 ESM BASKETBALL PRO DAY
Louetta Automotive Sports Complex
ESM as well as NBA front office
susans... Make one (or both) a holiday
14
personnel will be in attendance to
5
BACK TO SCHOOL SIP AND SHOP
We have a proven track record of
4TH ANNUAL PUP WASH & GROOM BENEFITING
theme and rotate them through the year! ARWorkshop.com/Cypress
Waller Animal Shelter & Rescue
Come 32
Street
support
the
Waller
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020
Animal
scout underrated talented during this professional free agent event.
Cy-Fair Town Center
finding diamonds in the ruff and
Enjoy refreshments as you shop
placing them in top countries as
back to school specials and meet the
well as the NBA.
local business owners along the strip
ExecutiveSportsManagement.com
facing Hwy 290. Jolie Salon, Haute
LouettaSports.com
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CityLifestyle.com/Cypress 33
LOCALLY OWNED
BALLOON ART NEVERLAND BALLOONS AND FACE PAINTING MAKE YOUR IMAGINATION A REALITY
ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED
JOSH CLARK WAS JUST A KID WHEN HE BEGAN STUDYING THE WAYS OF A BALLOON ARTIST AT CICI’S PIZZA. Carefully, he’d deconstruct step-by-step how the artist twisted balloons into sculptures. Then Josh taught himself to do the same. By the time he was a middle-schooler, Josh was earning extra cash working neighborhood birthday parties under the name Breathtaking Balloons. More than 20 years later, his sculptures are even more breathtaking. He’s crafted wearable balloon outfits, a 12-foot fire-breathing dragon, cartoon characters, motorcycles - even a functioning balloon bounce house. Josh and his artist wife Amanda Clark own and operate Neverland Balloons and Face Painting. The entertainment duo serves both private and corporate clients with mesmerizing balloon sculptures and stunning painted-face designs. They use only the highest-quality, environmentally-friendly latex balloons and non-toxic face paints. Both experienced teachers, the two are quick to adapt their style to any kids’ event. These days though, with people holding fewer gatherings, the two are focused on delivering balloon services. They can deliver balloon bouquets, balloon lawn decor and just about any imaginative balloon creation. NeverlandBalloons.com 34
Cypress Lifestyle | August 2020