Issuu

MAY 2020

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Celebrating

Cypress Women

of Influence

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2020 PUBLISHER

Peggy Garner | peggy.garner@lifestylepubs.com MANAGING EDITOR

Erica Hernandez | erica.hernandez@lifestylepubs.com

Who runs the world?

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Samantha Eklund | samantha.eklund@lifestylepubs.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Bethany Alexander | bethany.alexander@lifestylepubs.com

LADIES OF CYPRESS, WHERE WOULD WE BE WITHOUT YOU? It is during May that we, as a country, celebrate mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers. But here at Cypress Lifestyle, we also want to recognize the female role models in our midst who are daily helping shape our community for the better.

AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dani Moore

It takes a village to raise a child, and our village has women who are school leaders,

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

doctors, first responders, law enforcement officers, authors, fitness experts, nurses,

Erica Hernandez

social workers and so much more. This month we’ll recognize five local women who contribute their skills and time to benefit our community. There’s Linda Zelenka, who left the corporate world to run

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jeff Valentine, Shannon Valentine | Lunalux, Mike Wilson | Crusader Media, Erica Hernandez | Erica Hernandez Media, Dean Greene

the non-profit organization, Cy-Hope which provides social services for thousands of underprivileged children and families. There’s Marty Clark, a former Army major who turned her love of horseback riding into a therapeutic business that benefits horses and riders. There’s Jenny Normand, who in her first year owning Shaka Power Yoga was recognized by the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce as a Small Business of the Year finalist. And then there’s Abby Liu, a competitive athlete and director of Cypress Montessori School who took ownership of the campus as a way to carry on her late mother’s legacy.

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

Our own Shannon Valentine of Lunalux Photography and Marketing photographed

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

each of these women - and herself - in a unique photo illustration set against the backdrop of Cypress Village Station. Interestingly, each woman was photographed individually as a social-distancing precaution in March when Harris County coronavirus cases first began to spike. Shannon then digitally placed each woman sideby-side in a photo composition to produce this month’s cover. This month, ladies, we here at Cypress Lifestyle thank you for everything you pour into Cypress. You make our community a great place to be.

Erica Hernandez, Managing Editor

ON THE COVER From left to right, Marty Clark, Jenny Normand, Linda Zelenka, Abby Liu and Shannon Valentine

PHOTOGRAPHY

VALENTINE | LUNALUX 4

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

SHANNON

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CityLifestyle.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 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.

COVID -19 Get ongoing advice and answers from the experts.

texaschildrenscoronavirus.org

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2020

FEATURES 14 Mothers and Daughters do Good Together National Charity League Unites Girls and Moms Through Community Service

18 Cypress Women of Influence Ladies Who Make a Difference in Our Community Share Life Lessons

24 Support Local Small Businesses Need Us Now More Than Ever

14 18

28 Women Who Uplift Our Community From Military Efforts to Fitness, These Women Make Cypress Great

24 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Trend Setter

Giving Back

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AROUND TOWN D. Watkins Award, which recognizes the nation’s top African American male scholar-athlete through the National Alliance of African American Athletes. At Cy-Ridge, he was on the honor roll all four years, volunteered at sports camps, and served in various community youth leadership and ministry programs. As a national recruit in football, he rated among the top defensive lineman for the Class of 2020, participating in the Pro-Football Hall of Fame Academy and Under Armour All-American Game. He is currently enrolled at the University of Texas

CY-LAKES HS AVP STUDENTS WIN FBI HOUSTON VIDEO CONTEST Cy-Lakes High School audio visual production (AVP) students won first place in the #ThinkBeforeYouPost PSA contest, hosted by the FBI Houston, Crime Stoppers of Houston and the FBI Houston Citizens Academy Alumni Association (CAAA). Houston-area students were asked to create a 45- to 60-second PSA educating the public about the seriousness of making hoax school threats. Entries were based on effective/ relevance, content, social media likes and creativity. Congratulations to Cy-Lakes students Andrew Flaherty, Alexander Ramirez, Damion Jackson, Victor Vargas and AVP teacher Adriel Ortiz.

LAMKIN ES STUDENT’S ARTWORK SELECTED FOR 2020 GOVERNOR’S GALLERY Lamkin Elementary School third grader, Darine Murshed was among 14 artists across the state to have their artwork selected for the 2020 Governor’s Gallery by Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott and her staff. Darine’s artwork will be framed and displayed in Governor Abbott’s business office for the next year. The honor is part of the office’s increased support of the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) and Youth Art Month (YAM), which is observed in March and promotes art and art education

CYPRESS GEMS CHAPTER RECOGNIZES 23 GRADUATING SENIORS The National Charity League Cypress Gems Chapter senior class were recognized for their phil-

CY-RIDGE GRADUATE HONORED AS FINALIST FOR NATIONAL SCHOLARATHLETE AWARD

Conference Center in February. Alongside their mothers, the 2020 class performed over 4,838 hours of community service benefiting non-profit organizations

Vernon

including Blue Bow Foundation, Boots 4 Troops, Cy-Fair

Broughton is a finalist for the 29th Annual Franklin

Educational Foundation, Cy-Hope, Cypress Lucky

Cy-Ridge

anthropic service at a formal event held at the Norris

High

School

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

graduate

Mutt Rescue, Giving Gowns, Habitat for Humanity, Houston Food Bank, Reach Unlimited, Santa Maria Hostel and the Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition. The Cypress Gems chapter formed in 2014 and is comprised of girls attending Cy-Ranch, Cy-Woods, Cy-Fair, and Bridgeland High Schools.

Debbie Benzel

YOUR HAMILTON MS QUIZ BOWL TEAM EARNS TOP-5 FINISH, NATIONALS BERTH The Hamilton Elementary School Quiz Bowl team earned a berth to the National Academic Quiz Tournament (NAQT)’s Middle School National Championship Tournament following a top-five finish in qualifying competition. Hamilton’s Quiz Bowl team are eighth grade students Ian Esch and Kasen Patel, and sixth grade students Rex Esch, Vedanth

cypress lender

YOUR FAMILY. YOUR FUTURE.

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Hariharan and Tavin Patel. They qualified for nationals at the Texas Quiz Bowl Alliance Winter Roundup II Tournament in January at Katy ISD’s Beckendorff Junior High School. The competition covers multiple topics including science, literature, math, chemistry, history, geography, current events and art history.

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TREND SETTER

springtime closet cleanup made simple CLOSET FACTORY OFFERS HOME ORGANIZATION SOLUTIONS

SPRINGTIME

MEANS

CLEARING

OUT

THE OLD AND MAKING ROOM FOR NEW. Oftentimes, that’s a challenge for homeowners who might have accumulated small appliances, old clothing or defunct paper files over the last year. For those who might need a little extra help getting organized, a custom-built solution might help ease stress and make finding items in your home or closet so much easier. “I like to say having a custom closet is like having a fresh cup of coffee in the morning,” says Don Yokovich, president and owner of Closet Factory. “You go in there, you find what you need and you’re out. It’s a simple thing.” Closet Factory works with homeowners to design, build and install custom organization systems not only for closets, but for any cluttered household space. The group has been established in the Houston area since 1994 and has completed more than 10,000 projects. “We can do the whole house,” Don says. “It really depends on where the greatest need is at. It’s endless what we can do.”

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED BY CLOSET FACTORY 10

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

Most homeowners come to Closet Factory looking for solutions for a cluttered closet. In the Houston area, Don says homebuilders often don’t create functional closets spaces that fit a person’s specific lifestyle or needs. The result? Homeowners end up using their closet in a way that doesn’t make the most of the space. “If you walk into your closet and you see wall space available that means it’s not optimized,” Don says. “There’s opportunity there.” Closet Factory designers help homeowners figure out exactly how to make the most of the space in a way that’s appealing and functional. Some clients are more interested in a tidy, functional closet while others might have fashionable purses or expensive items they would like to display. “We’ll walk in the closet with the client and say, ‘what’s working what’s not working,’” Don says. Closet Factory works best in collaboration with the client. Involving clients in the design process helps define important elements and details that the client desires. Working jointly sets the right expectations for the best and final outcome. Designers will measure the space and take inventory. They will measure clothing and even count the number of a client’s shoes. This is an important part of the design process. Once a design is approved, the material is ordered and manufactured specific to each design. From time of order to installation is typically 4-5 weeks. Depending on the size of the project installation can range from 1 to 5 days. “It’s not like you’re ordering from a catalog,” Don says. “Nothing is cut or made until the design is approved.” Creating custom solutions for every room in the house is what Closet Factory does. They have built their reputation on custom closets, and apply the same personalized approach to every area of the home. Whether it’s your closet, pantry, home office or laundry room, Closet Factory offers a wide selection of colors, finishes so each custom space is tailored to your taste with a variety of options and accessories for all your organizational needs. ClosetFactory.com 281-355-7676

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

closet organization tips TIP 1 Remove items that aren’t related to the wardrobe such as photo albums, filing cabinets, or exercise equipment and store those someplace more related to their use.

TIP 2 Remove clothing that is old, out of style or no longer fits. A general rule of thumb is if you haven’t used it in two years then toss it. Ask yourself these questions: Do I love it? Do I wear it? Does it project the image I want to project?

TIP 3 Decluttering a closet takes time. Feeling overwhelmed? Commit just 10-15 minutes once or twice a week rearranging items, rehanging clothes or placing unwanted items in a donation box.

TIP 4 Keep a donation bin in your closet to make it easier to get rid of unused items.

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

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GIVING BACK

Mothers and Daughters Doing Good Together NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE UNITES GIRLS AND MOMS THROUGH COMMUNITY SERVICE ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

WHEN SHANNON FRITZ AND HER DAUGHTER

LAUREN

OUT

be pushing the cart with the client,” says

VOLUNTEER WITH THE NATIONAL

Shannon, who is president of her local

CHARITY LEAGUE, THEY ALWAYS DO

NCL chapter. Lauren practices her Spanish

SO AS A TEAM.

with Spanish-speaking customers while

The two help out once a month unloading

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

“I’ll be handing out food and Lauren will

Shannon works alongside her daughter.

produce at Bear Creek United Methodist

“I think the most important thing has been

Church and getting food into the hands of

the two of us getting to work together with

those who need it most.

our philanthropies,” Shannon says.

Now in its 95th year, the National Charity League spans 29 states and contributes three million hours to more than 4,000 charities nationwide. The group, which is open to mothers and their teenage daughters, focuses on community service, leadership development and cultural experiences. Girls can join the program in seventh grade and participate until they graduate high school. The district is home to some 3,800 members who hail from College Station to Sugarland. Those in the Cypress area include: the Yellow Rose Chapter, Cypress Belles Chapter, Cypress Pearls Chapter, Cypress Creek Chapter, Cypress Gems Chapter, Champions Chapter and theTexas Diamonds Chapter. This year, the local NCL moved its annual philanthropy gathering to the Berry Center to accommodate even more members than in prior years. About 830 members registered for the event which benefits the American Heart Association compared to 400 members two years ago. Each chapter partners with different non-profit organizations in need of volunteers or services such as the Houston Food Bank, Boys and Girls Country or the American Heart Association. Shannon and Lauren volunteer several times a year preparing school-supply donations, serving as waitresses at a charity banquet and restocking a food pantry. Lauren, a ninthgrader this year who’s held different leadership positions, says the group has given her new life perspectives. “It’s making me more thankful,” Lauren says. “It’s making me more aware of things I say or do and be more encouraging toward other people.” Lauren has accumulated nearly 50 community service hours this year while juggling sports, school work and helping organize a father-daughter event. “Honestly what we find in this day and age teenagers are very, very busy,” says Brenda Polivka, National District Coordinator. “There’s not a lot of time left one-on-one for mom and daughter. This organization helps you carve out that time.” Girls who leave the program often find it helped them prepare for leadership roles in college groups, Brenda says. NCL has guided trainings to teach girls how to host events, resolve conflict, build confidence while supporting the group’s traditions, values and community connections. Knowing how to volunteer or how to run a meeting are key skills girls learn in NCL which prove to be valuable leadership experiences. And while college is still years away for Lauren, she’s already learned a thing or two about leadership. “I think to be a good leader in NCL you have to be able to take control of the room while acknowledging everybody’s feelings and be ready for anything,” she says. The group’s membership drive starts in the fall and runs for about two months. To join, applicants must be sponsored, complete a selection process and pay yearly dues. NationalCharityLeague.org CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

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E S R Y C P S MART Y CL ARK OWNER, EQUINE BODYWORKER, MAJOR’S HORSE MASSAGE WHAT

ACCOMPLISHMENT

ARE

YOU

MOST

PROUD OF? I am most proud of my 23 years of service in the Army and Army Reserves. I matured a lot in the Army and I learned to think of the welfare of others before myself, but primarily the military gave me the confidence that I could do whatever I set out to do. As a retired Army major, I chose to honor my service by naming my business after my military career. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST PROFESSIONAL JOB AND HOW DID THAT INFLUENCE WHO YOU ARE TODAY? I became a teacher after leaving the Army. Listening, being confident and believing that hard work pays off were valuable lessons throughout my life. WHAT LED YOU TO YOUR CURRENT PROFESSION? Animals are my passion. I was active in animal rescue and pet therapy for years. I missed the human-animal connection and I rekindled that need through horseback riding and eventually equine bodywork. HOW DO YOU CHOOSE TO BE A POSITIVE INFLUENCE IN THE CYPRESS COMMUNITY? I believe that a happy horse makes for a happy rider. I volunteer with two local equine rescue therapy groups and also teach Sunday school at my church.

N E O M of influence

ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY ERICA HERNANDEZ, DEAN GREENE, JEFF VALENTINE | LUNALUX

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

LY N D A Z E L E N K A EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CY-HOPE, INC.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST PROFESSIONAL JOB AND HOW DID THAT INFLUENCE WHO YOU ARE TODAY? One week after graduating college, I joined an aggressive management training program with General Electric. After ten years in management, my corporate background and passion for those less fortunate gave me another opportunity. In 2011, I was named executive director of the newly formed non-profit, Cy-Hope. WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being part of the core group of people concerned about the children in our community which led to the birth of Cy-Hope. WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED AND WHO WAS IT FROM? I have a plaque two dear friends gave me that reads, “I’m a soul on fire.” My prayer is that the “fire” in us will spread hope throughout our community. HOW DO YOU CHOOSE TO BE A POSITIVE INFLUENCE IN THE CYPRESS COMMUNITY? During this season of uncertainty with COVID-19, we are collaborating with so many organizations to help with relief efforts. I don’t take for granted the privilege I have to lead Cy-Hope. I have a tremendous staff, board of directors and team of volunteers with a passion to serve. Hopefully, this and all our Cy-Hope programs provide a positive impact in our community.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

CYPRESS WOMEN OF INFLUENCE (CONTINUED)

A B B Y L I U DIRECTOR, OWNER OF CYPRESS MONTESSORI SCHOOL WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Winning backto-back decathlon championships in 2018 and 2019. I was a competitor in The D10, a competitive decathlon, and helped the group raise more than $70,000 supporting pediatric cancer. I won The D10 for my students, my mother who passed away from cancer, and my Montessori school which I took over after her passing to carry on her legacy. PERSONALLY, WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE MORE OF IN THE CYPRESS COMMUNITY? We need to put a greater emphasis on how we can work together rather than compete with one another. WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED AND WHO WAS IT FROM? Always treat people well. No matter what you have or what happens in life, treating people well is a way to live and a beautiful legacy to leave behind. This is what my mother has ingrained in me and what I abide by. HOW DO YOU CHOOSE TO BE A POSITIVE INFLUENCE? Leading by example as an educator and athlete. I want to inspire all students and families to have a healthy mind, body, and spirit. I received several awards as a collegiate athlete, I’m a founding instructor at SWEAT1000 and completed my MBA. Our school was nominated Top Montessori School for 2018, 2019 and in 2020 received the Houston Award.

JENNY NORMAND OWNER AND OPERATOR, SHAKA POWER YOGA WHAT LED YOU TO YOUR CURRENT PROFESSION? I started my journey in yoga simply wanting to get to “the pose” and create a beautiful shape. In 2016, I was in savasana (corpse pose) on a paddleboard when a vision came to me about starting my own yoga business. The rest was history. WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? A year after opening our studio, we were a finalist for the 2019 Small Business of the Year Award with the Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce. We registered with the Yoga Alliance, graduated our first class and successfully launched a stand-up paddleboard yoga program. HOW DO YOU CHOOSE TO BE A POSITIVE INFLUENCE IN THE CYPRESS COMMUNITY? I am a proud member of the Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce and co-chair its health committee. We also partner with Cypress businesses for events to promote and cultivate community health.

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

S H A N N O N VA L E N T I N E OWNER, PHOTOGRAPHER LUNALUX WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST PROFESSIONAL JOB AND HOW DID THAT INFLUENCE WHO YOU ARE TODAY? I started college as an accounting major but quickly realized accounting was not my jam. I decided to answer my creative calling and change my degree to photography. I just thought, “If not now, when?!” WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I am grateful every day for the success of Lunalux. The joy and satisfaction I get from creating meaningful work for my clients is pretty amazing. To be a part of capturing life’s most important moments with photography and helping local businesses tell their stories is an honor. WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED AND WHO WAS IT FROM? US Andersen said, “When you fully realize that thought causes all, you will know there are never any limits that you yourself do not impose.” HOW DO YOU CHOOSE TO BE A POSITIVE INFLUENCE? Supporting Cypress businesses with professional photography and marketing is, by definition, our business model. We’re here for them. PERSONALLY, WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE MORE OF IN THE CYPRESS COMMUNITY? The failure rate of new businesses is scary. So, as the Cypress community continues to grow, we want our local businesses to not only survive, but to thrive. WHAT LED YOU TO YOUR CURRENT PROFESSION? A love of art, a U of H syllabus, and a ton of hard work!

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LOCALLY OWNED

support local ARTICLE PEGGY GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

WE ARE AMAZED AT THE CYPRESS COMMUNITY SPIRIT BEING DISPLAYED ON A DAILY BASIS AS WE HEAR STORIES ABOUT NEIGHBORS HELPING EACH OTHER. From buying groceries for the elderly to getting take-out/delivery from restaurants to buying gift cards from local shops, the people who call Cypress home, once again rise to the challenge to support those who need it. We want to highlight just a few of our small businesses feeling the pinch of having to close their doors. While the following group of businesses is a small percentage of those who need our patronage, please consider how you might be able to help them get through this challenging time.

NYAM NYAM CAFE 15201 Mason Rd. Cypress TX 77433 (832) 653-5900 NyamNyam.com Nyam Nyam is a small café specializing in sweet and savory crepes, hearty kebabs, soups and pastries. Owners Mikhail and Nataliya Goryachev immigrated from the Soviet Union 20 years ago. Mikhail, who was classically trained as a chef in Russia, started his career in Houston at the Ritz Carlton as the chief breakfast chef. They dreamed of one day owning their own restaurant. When they opened Nyam Nyam , Mikhail and Nataliya created a menu full of old world recipes, which have been passed down through generations. Everything is made from scratch with fresh ingredients. Mikhail says, “We love what we do, that is why we do it!” The café is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and specials include 15% off on Wednesdays for dinner and buy one crepe get a second one half off for on Thursdays for dine in only. They also offer online ordering, curbside pickup, delivery and catering.

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

JOLIE SALON 25712 NW Freeway, Suite J, Cypress, TX 77429

HAUTE SUBURBAN MESS, A MERLE NORMAN BOUTIQUE

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Jolie Salon is a full-service AVEDA salon featuring haircuts,

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color and styling for the whole family and every type of hair.

HauteSuburbanMess.com

They specialize in highlights, balayage, blowouts, Brazilian

Angee Ruffino, the owner of Haute Suburban Mess, describes her

and keratin smoothing, hair extensions with real human

shop as a cosmetics, clothing and accessories boutique “for women

hair, threading, and up-dos for weddings, proms and other

who have outgrown crop tops but aren’t ready for muumuus yet.” She

special events. “We use AVEDA products exclusively,

chooses quality items and unique brands you won’t find in depart-

which are made with plant-based, organic ingredients

ment stores and that women will have in their closets for a long

sourced from farms all over the world, and without par-

time. Angee says, “As women, we are really hard on ourselves and

abens, phthalates and sodium lauryl sulfate,” says owner

I love helping someone feel better about the way they look. When

Sangita Tailor. “AVEDA is a cruel-free brand that doesn’t

someone is in the shop, I’m not trying to just sell products. I genu-

test on animals and never asks others to do so on its

inely want people to be happy with their purchases.” The store also

behalf. Its mission is to care for the world we live in.” You

carries the full line of Merle Norman cosmetics, which are affordable

can also purchase AVEDA products in the salon or from

and made in the USA. Angee lets you try a product before you buy it

their online store.

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anyone can be creative! “You choose the type of project and design, and we’ll show you how to create customized décor for your home, office or gift,” says owner Rebecca Warriner. Projects include framed signs, plank signs, centerpiece boxes, lazy Susans, wall hangings and chunky knit blankets. The warm and inviting space is the perfect place for birthday parties, girls’ night out, team building events or just a fun day with friends. In the summer, they offer fun, four-day art camps for kids ages 7 to 14. Rebecca and her team can also do custom projects with logos for businesses or customer appreciation gifts. And if you want to do a project at home instead of the workshop, they make DIY take-home kits including instructions.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

KLAUS BREWING COMPANY 10142 Jones Rd | Houston, TX 77065 (346) 284-1473

PLUM COFFEE/CAKE FINE PASTRY PLUM COFFEE

KlausBrewing.com Klaus Brewing Company was founded by a local group of family and friends led by passionate brewmaster, Thomas Lemke. “We chose the name Klaus because we wanted a strong traditional German name. The name’s meaning is “the people’s victory.” We believe offering people great locally crafted beer in a welcoming environment is truly a victory for everyone,“ says Thomas. Klaus offers a base of regularly brewed beers year-round while introducing new brews seasonally. Every beer is brewed on site and tours of the brewery are available where you’ll learn the company history, brewing process and philosophy behind Thomas’ vision. Visit the air conditioned tap room or venture out to the beer garden where live music and food trucks are also often on tap. Klaus is also a fun place to host an event either in the taproom, brewery or beer garden. And, if you want to enjoy craft beer at home, Thomas can send you home with bottles of your favorite beer.

11688 Barker Cypress Rd. #A2, Cypress, Texas 77433 (281) 256-9400 PlumCoffeeShop.com CAKE FINE PASTRY 13010 Farm to Market Rd 529, Houston, TX 77041 (713) 518-4868 CakeFinePastry.com Running two businesses is a family affair for Jerry and Liz Hale, and their kids Alec and Vivian. Jerry and Liz started Cake Fine Pastry in 2010 (originally named Zeapod Cakery) where they create custom cakes from elegant wedding cakes to the unusual (think of birthday cake that looks like a Whataburger meal!) Last year, they decided to purchase Plum Coffee, where they expanded the menu and redesigned the interior of the shop to make it more warm and inviting. “We wanted our customers to have a place they could come to for business meetings, schoolwork or to just relax while they enjoy a coffee and pastry, or a sandwich and smoothie. We also offer specialties from Cake Fine Pastry like brownie bottom cakes, cupcakes and pies,” says Liz. Alec and Vivian help out at both businesses and are an integral part of the family business. Plum Coffee has a drive thru, and offers deliver and catering, including a coffee bar, breakfast, lunch and desserts.

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TUTOR DOCTOR CYPRESS (281) 884-3781 TutorDoctor.com/Cypress Many students, no matter what their age, may need help in school or preparing for college-entry exams. Tutor Doctor Cypress offers encouragement and assistance along with the convenience of learning at home. Tutors focus on critical thinking, organization, and other necessary life skills that will help your child prepare for their future. They will create customized lesson plans, as well as provide weekly progress reports to keep you informed. The goal is to not only help them with the areas where they struggle but also to instill self-confidence in their abilities. Seda Hulagu, owner of Tutor Doctor Cypress, believes “your student’s

tutor doctor cypress

future is happening right now with their education.” She also encourages anyone who is looking for the opportunity to make extra income while making a difference in our local students lives, to contact her. Whether you choose at home or online tutoring, Seda believes she can help your student reach their potential.

JERSEY BAGELS 9522 Huffmeister Road, Houston, Texas 77095 (832) 683-4297 Facebook.com/JerseyBagels Owners Cory and Jaclyn Yates moved to Houston from the East Coast and grew frustrated trying to find a bagel that tasted like the ones back home. “We love Houston, but our roots are deeply ingrained in the East Coast. After living here for several years and realizing just how few quality bagel shops there are in town, we decided to change that. With that decision came the realization that we had to do this the right way, with real bagel making techniques,” says Cory. What started as an in-home bagel business quickly grew to opening up their shop, Jersey Bagels. They hand roll jersey bagels

each bagel making 800 – 1000 bagels daily. You can eat your bagels the traditional way with toppings or as breakfast or lunch sandwich. They even offer pizza bagels! Cory and Jaclyn feel they have made a real connection with the community and are very grateful for the support. CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

OUR TOWN ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY ERICA HERNANDEZ & CONTRIBUTED PHOTOGRAPHY

W O M E N W H O U p l i ft OUR COMMUNITY FROM MILITARY EFFORTS TO FITNESS, THESE WOMEN MAKE CYPRESS GREAT

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

C Y- F A I R W O M E N ’ S C L U B + WHAT IS CY-FAIR WOMEN’S CLUB? 501©3 community-based service organization of women committed to providing charitable services and civic improvements through donations and scholarships + WHO CAN TAKE PART? All women, 21 years or older, living in the Cypress-Fairbanks area + WHAT MAKES CY-FAIR WOMEN’S CLUB UNIQUE? Our community service, we donate our time. It is easy to write a check. It is hard to donate time. It’s easy to spot a member of the Cy-Fair Women’s Club. Just be on the lookout for their signature pink shirts at a volunteer effort near you. The group, which has been around since 1982 boasts some 77 members. From making pillows for breast cancer patients to helping usher the funeral of Harris County Deputy Sandeep Dhaliwal, the group is highly active in many facets of community life. Each year, the group’s annual Shop ‘till You Drop Marketplace fundraiser at the Berry Center draws enormous crowds and raises thousands of dollars for college

M I L I TA R Y M A M A N E T W O R K + WHAT IS THE MILITARY MAMA NETWORK? A national support group for family members of those who are active in the armed forces or veterans + WHO CAN TAKE PART? Mothers, wives and any military family member who needs support + WHAT DO YOU DO? Make holiday cards and care packages for active service members, send gifts to children of deployed military, complete service projects and meet regularly with families

scholarships and service grants. This year, the group is offering $61,000 in scholarships and grants for non-profit

Military families often face moments of uncertainty that other

service projects. Total, they’ve offered $273,000 in schol-

families may never know. There’s the uncertainty of sending

arships in the last eleven years.

a child to basic training, coping with a spouse’s deployment or

In the last five years, they’ve funded a community gar-

spending the holidays without a family member.

den through Cy-Fair Helping Hands; a memorial garden

“Most people don’t understand what it’s like to have a husband

for veterans at Camp Hope; a Thanksgiving charity event

or child serving,” says Dawn Crawford, who heads the local Military

through Mesa Outreach Food Pantry; and helped pub-

Mama Network. The group has more than 100 members in the Cypress

lish and distribute a storybook that helps kids cope with

and Tomball areas who meet regularly for service projects or just to

the loss of a sibling.

talk. “The main purpose of our group is to be there, be friends and

The group meets the first Thursday of each month at the Berry Center, 8877 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, Texas 77433.

help each other,” Dawn says. Learn more at MilitaryMamaNetwork. org or email Dawn at ds7897@sbcglobal.net.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

E M P H O U R M E N T A L LWOMEN’S BOOT CAMP + WHAT IS THE EMPHOURMENT ALL-WOMEN’S BOOT CAMP? We are an all-women’s judgment-free fitness class. We create a fun environment for women to work out together while feeling 100 percent supported by friends. + WHO CAN TAKE PART? ‘Seasoned’ women who are seeking to improve overall health and wellness in a loving and supportive environment.

The words ‘fitness boot camp’ might sound intimidating

to some women, long-time personal trainer Kerry Walsh has a way of making her all-female clients feel welcomed and

HIGHLANDS RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE CYPRESS + WHAT IS HIGHLANDS RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE CYPRESS? We are a full-service residential mortgage banker serving the greater Houston area. Our corporate office is in Dallas. + WHO DO YOU SERVE? We serve anyone looking to achieve the dream of homeownership. From first-time homebuyers, move-up buyers, veterans, anyone looking to refinance their current home or consolidate debt. This all-ladies group of mortgage experts brings more than 150 years of professional experience to their clients. They are a team of women empowering women who have created a culture that feels like family. Each loan they close is personal and rewarding. Team members include Brenda Kees, Michelee Bartolo, Leslie Maloney, Debbie Benzel (branch manager) and Deanne Monro (not pictured). The office is at 12238 Queenston Blvd, Houston, Texas 77095 until August when they will move to Queenston Business Park South. Visit DebbieBenzelTeam.com. 30

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

supported while still getting in a killer workout. Her boot camp combines weekly workouts with relationship-building, mindset and health coaching. Workouts are three days a week and adapted for all fitness levels. Members often build lasting friendships, travel together, host dinners and support each far beyond scheduled workouts. Kerry believes change starts from within and women must create a mind-and-body connection to achieve sustainable results. The group also hosts Women Wine and Wellness, a professional networking group, for passionate ladies who care about health and connection. For more information visit Fitness4-U.com.

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QUIET LIFE ENJOY A COUNTRYSIDE ESCAPE IN NEARBY HEMPSTEAD

IF THE THOUGHT OF A SPACIOUS COUNTRY HOMESTEAD WITH A PARTY BARN AND MOTHER-IN-LAW QUARTERS SOUNDS LIKE A DREAM, IT’S CLOSER TO REALITY THAN YOU THINK. Just a 25-minute drive up Highway 290 in the Waller County countryside is a five-acre property filled with oak trees, a cozy barn and a three-story home with a kitchen built for a chef. “It would be the hustle and bustle of the city,” says Cindy Ochsner, broker and owner of Cinderella Real Estate. The four-bedroom home features a commercial kitchen complete with double ovens, a gas stove, granite countertops and ample floor-to-ceiling cabinet space for storing spices and small appliances. Just a few steps from the home is a small barn and a mother-in-law quarters complete with a bathroom, living space and a large walk-in closet. CinderellaRealEstate.com 25602 Zube Rd. Hockley, Texas 77447 713-907-8260 32

Cypress Lifestyle | May 2020

ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ

perfect for a large family or a retiree who just wants to be away from

PHOTOGRAPHY MIKE WILSON | CRUSADER MEDIA

COUNTRY LIVING

OPEN HOUSE

COOK'S PARADISE A spacious kitchen, loads of cabinet space and a large island make this a lovely space for meal preparation and dinner parties.

S P R AW L I N G P R O P E R T Y WRAP-AROUND PORCH Relax and unwind while birdwatching, sipping coffee or enjoying the family outdoors. This homestead has a porch large enough for a short stroll and plenty of space for lounging in the shade. PICTURESQUE SETTING The open spaces and lush surroundings make this property a fitting backdrop for family portraits. SPACE FOR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS With five sprawling acres, this property has enough space for numerous family members, pets and livestock. The entire lot is fenced with enough protection for horses or cows. RURAL NEIGHBORHOOD Only about 30 other homes are in this countryside neighborhood. Other lots are close by but won’t crowd your own living space. CityLifestyle.com/Cypress 33

Thinking of Selling Your Castle? Get a reliable, honest and experienced real estate expert on your side with Cinderella Real Estate!

"Cindy is a tough negotiator and provided exceptional guidance throughout the entire process." Simon & Jessica F. Cypress, TX

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CINDY OCHSNER Broker/Owner 713.907.8620 cindy@cinderellare.com

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