Date Set for 4th Annual Junior Tiger Fun Run

Spring, Texas. Race weekend for the Klein Collins Cross Country and Track and Field Programs 4th anniversary of the Jr. Tiger Fun Run has been set for the fourth week of January, with three 2K age division races scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m., Saturday, January 28, 2012.

 

“We’re in the planning phase for next year and in process of reviewing our efforts with the 2011 race,” said race director David Windsor. “Specifically, we are evaluating ways to increase participation and garner additional support from the community. It’s our goal to make each year the best one yet.”

 

Each year the Fun Run has been growing in participation. “The 2011 fun run drew record participation with more than 100 youth runners”, said Booster Club President, Greg Miller. “As with previous years, the fun run will feature three mixed races for girls and boys in K – 2nd, 3rd – 4th, and 5th – 6th Grades. Medals will be awarded to the top five boys and top five girls in each race”.

 

The Fun Run started out not only as a fundraiser for the school’s running programs but as “a way to encourage kids to be fit and healthy”, said Head Girls Track Coach, Vicki Bevan. “The goal is to make running fun”.

 

Prior to the start of each race there will be stretching and warm ups presented by Klein Collins Cross Country & Track teams. The KC Tigers will also accompany youth on their run, and lead them in cool down activities afterwards. Parents and community are invited to stay and “Meet the Tigers”, enjoy light refreshments and a silent auction. The first 150 youth registering for the event will receive a free T-shirt and goodie bag. There is a $15 entry fee. Medals will be awarded to the Top 5 girls and boys in each race. Register for the “Junior Tiger Fun Run” by January 25, 2011 at http://www.kcxctrack.com/. Klein Collins HS is located at 20811 Ella Boulevard, Spring, Texas 77388.

 

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information please visit the KC Tigers online at http://www.kcxctrack.com/or contact David Windsor at windsordavid@sbcglobal.net or 832-797-1230.

About The Klein Collins Cross Country – Track & Field Booster Club

The Klein Collins Cross Country – Track & Field Booster Club is a non-profit organization of interested parents who voluntarily assist in the furtherance of interscholastic athletics as an integral part of the educational process at Klein Collins High School. The Club is composed of moms and dads who support the boys’ and girls’ cross country and track and field programs at KCHS. They are involved as enthusiastic fans and as financial helpers as well. They hold fund raising activities that help assure our students of a first class athletic

Spring Business Directory – Are You Listed?

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Club Baseball Tryouts at Lone Star College-Montgomery

Lone Star College-Montgomery will have open tryouts for the club baseball team on Wednesday, September 7, at 3:30 p.m., on campus at the baseball practice field.

As part of the National Club Baseball Association (NCBA), the LSC-Montgomery baseball team—the LSC-Montgomery Mavericks—plays during both the fall and spring semesters. Opponents include other Lone Star College System teams, Victoria College, Sam Houston State University, University of Houston-Downtown, Texas A & M University, Texas State University, Tyler Junior College, Rice University, and San Antonio College.

Under the leadership of the team’s coach, Scott Hankosky, the LSC-Montgomery Mavericks were ranked number 10 in the NCBA Division II during the middle of the 2011 season.

For more information, visit www.LoneStar.edu/13056, or contact Scott Hankosky at (936) 273-7097 or hankosky@LoneStar.edu.

Lone Star College-Tomball president named to national commission

HOUSTON (Aug. 30, 2011) – Dr. Susan Karr, president of Lone Star College-Tomball, has been named as a member of the Commission on Diversity, Inclusion and Equity as part of the American Association of Community Colleges.

AACC is the national advocacy voice for community colleges and commission members act in an advisory capacity to the AACC Board of Directors.

Karr has been named to a three-year term to this commission, which will concentrate on issues on community college campuses such as affirmative action, civil rights, cultural competency, faculty recruitment/development, students with disabilities, and more.

“I’m excited to represent Lone Star College as a member of this national advisory group,” said Karr.

As president of LSC-Tomball for the past two years, Karr is also a member of LSCS Chancellor Dr. Richard Carpenter’s Executive Council. She came to LSCS from Ouachita Technical College in Malvern, AR., where she had served as vice president of instruction for 16 years. She holds a B.A. in psychology from the University of Maryland, a master’s in human services management from Boston University, and a Ph.D. in education administration from the University of Texas at Austin Community College Leadership Program.

There are six commissions authorized by the AACC Board of directors covering a number issues and topics. The commissions were established to provide advice to the AACC Board and staff; encourage collaboration among community college entities and organizations; and provide a forum for focused conversation about the important community college issues and priorities of the
day. Members meet twice each year.

The AACC is the leading proponent and the national voice for community colleges. AACC represents nearly 1,200 two-year, associate degree–granting institutions and more than 12 million students, as well as a growing number of international members in Puerto Rico, Japan, Great Britain, Korea, and the United Arab Emirates.  These colleges are the largest and fastest-growing sector of U.S. higher education, enrolling close to half of all U.S. undergraduates.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Kicks-off its 2011 Montgomery County Light The Night Walk

September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society will hold their 2011 Montgomery County Light The Night Walk Kickoff event on Wednesday, September 14 at The Woodlands Resort &
Conference Center.  All registered teams and walkers are invited to attend. Hundreds of walkers, fundraisers, and corporate partners will gather to celebrate the beginning of the upcoming walk
season.

Sunny 99.1 morning radio personality Dana Tyson of The Woodlands, will emcee the event and help kick off the Light the Night Walk 7^th year in the Montgomery County area.

September is Blood Cancer Awareness month. Awareness month is an opportunity to increase the public’s understanding of blood cancers and encourage people to support the funding of research to find cures and education programs to help patients have the best possible outcome through their cancer experience. All of the walkers in attendance are determined to help build awareness about the approximately 957,000 people in the United States living with a blood cancer, and will show their support by fundraising and participating in The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Montgomery County Light The Night^® Walk on Sunday, October 23^rd.

Light The Night, LLS’s annual fundraising walk held in communities throughout the country,  features teams of co-workers, families and friends walking together in twilight holding illuminated balloons – white for survivors, red for supporters and gold in memory of loved ones lost to cancer. The Walk, which commemorates lives touched by blood cancers, is a celebration, with music, refreshments and family activities. The 2011 Montgomery County Light The Night Walk will be held at Market Street Central Park in The Woodlands on Sunday, October 23, 2011, 7:00pm.

“Light The Night is the nation’s opportunity to pay tribute to lives touched by blood cancer,” said Billie Sue Parris, Executive Director of the Texas Gulf Coast Chapter of LLS. “We are grateful to all of our participants for supporting this lifesaving program. The funds raised help The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society support leading-edge research and provide much-needed patient services.”

Last year, participants in Light The Night Walk raised more than $39 million, nationwide.  For more information or to register for a local Walk, contact the Texas Gulf Coast Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at 713.680.8088 or visit www.lightthenight.org/txg.

This year’s sponsors & Partners  include: Reliant Energy, Apache Corporation, St. Luke’s The Woodlands, The Strong Firm, Towne Center Automotive, Hal Watson Air Conditioning, FMC Technologies and  Anadarko.

South Montgomery County YMCA Opens Up Their Doors to the Community’s Honored Heroes 10th Anniversary of 9/11

As the 10^th Anniversary of 9/11 approaches, the South Montgomery County YMCA is opening its doors to the community’s honored heroes and their families in appreciation for their service to the community and to their country. These honored heroes include our local firemen, law enforcement, members of the armed services and veterans: Men and women who risk their lives daily for all of us to keep our communities safe, our families safe and our country safe.

We invite our honored heroes and their families to be our guest at the South Montgomery County YMCAs, September 9 – 11. Enjoy all the amenities our 3 centers have to offer including the use of our pools, wellness centers, climbing centers, child watch, sauna & whirlpools. Experience one of our 200+ group fitness classes that we offer weekly. Try something new and fun such as Zumba or  BodyJAM. Get fired up in a BodyCOMBAT or R.I.P.P.E.D. class or just relax and stretch in a yoga or BodyFLOW class. Spend the day outdoors and reconnect with nature at our Family Adventure Day on Saturday, Sept. 10^th. The fun begins at 9:30am and continues to 3pm at the Creekside YMCA Outdoor Adventure Center! Challenge yourself on the 50 foot Alpine Tower,  enjoy the 30 foot giant swing, cool off in the misting station, go canoeing or just enjoy a picnic lunch with the family in one of the tree houses or authentic tipis!

The Y is a powerful association of men, women and children of all ages and from all walks of life joined together by a shared passion: to strengthen the foundations of community. Though the world may be unpredictable, one thing remains certain – the Y is, and always will be, dedicated to building healthy, confident, connected and secure children, adults, families and communities.

Thank you honored heroes. For more information please call 281-367-9622 or visit www.ymcahouston.org/south-montgomery-county.  The South Montgomery County YMCAs are located at 6145 Shadowbend, 8100 Ashlane Way and 6464 Creekside Forest Drive in The Woodlands. We look forward to serving you and your families.

South Montgomery County Shadowbend YMCA Looking for Archives, Memorabilia, Stories and Alumni Members to Celebrate 25th Anniversary

The first YMCA in The Woodlands opened its door on September 21, 1986 at 6145 Shadowbend Place. The South Montgomery County YMCA Staff needs your help as they prepare to celebrate the 25^th Anniversary of the Shadowbend YMCA facility. According to Roxanne Davis, YMCA Community Liaison, “We are searching for archives, memorabilia and stories of the earlier years of the YMCA serving the community. We need photos, articles, t-shirts, sports photos, swim lesson photos, facility photos, staff photos an volunteer photos especially from 1986 – 1993. We also are in need of names and addresses of earlier staff, volunteers and members from that time period who are no longer current members so we can reconnect, celebrate and recognize those that are part of the South Montgomery County YMCA foundation and heritage. Were you a member of the staff or member of the YMCA in the late 80’s? Please call me at 281-681-6723”!

The South Montgomery County YMCA has come a long way since the Fall of 1986. Today the YMCA is recognized as the largest YMCA of the Greater Houston Area and one of the largest in the State of Texas serving more than 40,000 families annually helping them grow stronger in spirit, mind and body.  In addition the annual Partner Campaign has reached an all time high providing over $600,000 in scholarship and subsidized programs to more than 5000 area individuals, youth and families in 2011.

The community is invited to a 25^th Anniversary Open House Celebration on Wednesday, September 21^st. There will be lots of free family fun, activities, refreshments, giveaways, VIP tours and
much more with a 25^th theme throughout the day. Families and individuals can join the YMCA on September 21^st for just $25 and receive a special 25^th Anniversary T-shirt. Come celebrate and reminisce with us as we review the past and look forward to the next 25 years strengthening kids, families and communities.

If you have photos, memorabilia and/or stories to share please contact Roxanne Davis, 281-681-6723 or e-mail rdavis@ymcahouston.org.

Mercer Arboretum & Bontanic Gardens Presents the 5th Annual Garden Faire

Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is hosting the 5^th Annual Garden Faire & Fall Festival Saturday and Sunday, September 24 and 25 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the picnic area on the west side of Aldine Westfield Road. This free two-day event is perfect for people of all ages and features regional plant societies, local artists who specialize in garden art, children’s activities, and more!

The Mercer Society (TMS), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, is sponsoring the Kids’ Korner where nature-related crafts and other activities will be held. They will also have a booth of gift items sold in The Gift Shoppe both days. “Stan the Train Man” is giving free train rides, and other vendor booths include garden arts and craft groups, pet rescue organizations, and plant societies selling plants. Festival-goers can bring a picnic or purchase food at the concessions.

Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, a Harris County Precinct 4 facility under the leadership of Commissioner Jerry Eversole, is located at 22306 Aldine Westfield Road, one mile
north of FM 1960. Harris County Precinct 4 programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, sex, religion, national origin, or physical ability. Anyone requiring special assistance to participate in any program should contact Mercer at (281) 443-8731. More information can also be found online at www.hcp4.net/mercer.

Klein ISD Trio Set To Take the Stage in NYC

KISD high school students selected to perform in Kissless the Musical 

Matt Buzonas (right), Sierra Gant (middle) and Ryne Nardecchia (left) will represent Klein ISD and Houston in NYC Off-Broadway premier of Kissless the Musical.

Spring, Texas — Despite different backgrounds and different schools, three Klein ISD high school students realized they had more in common than just a love for the fine arts. All three were not only cast in the upcoming production of Kissless the Musical, but they also overcame obstacles as children ranging from extreme shyness to one even with Tourette syndrome.

Matt Buzonas (Klein Collins), Sierra Gant (Klein High) and Ryne Nardecchia (Klein Oak) will perform in the Off-Broadway production of Kissless the Musical at the 2011 New York Music Theatre Festival. Organized by the Houston Family Arts Center (HFAC) Actors Academy, the students will perform six times Sept. 28-Oct.8 in New York City. The three will also have the opportunity to attend master classes taught by Broadway professionals and visit local colleges.

“It’s amazing because not many adults in this profession get this opportunity and for us to be considered is a dream come true,” expressed Nardecchia, who has been acting and singing since the sixth grade. “It gives us a glimpse of what we could be doing for the rest of our lives.”

Kissless the Musical tells the story of two very different people forced to live together for the summer and the unlikely relationship that develops to the dismay of their friends and family. This musical takes an original look at what it is like to be a teen in the 21st century.

The trio was cast last spring over several other talented students for three of the 20 coveted roles in the show. Additionally, former KISD students Michael Chiavone, Tyce Green and Theresa Zimmerman were also cast for the show. The students maintained a rigorous summer schedule, spending six days a week at rehearsal.

Three Houston previews are scheduled before the premieres in New York City. Performances are Sunday, Sept. 11 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 17 at 3 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. at the Berry Center in Cypress with an opportunity to meet the cast and production team at a reception following the show for an additional donation. All proceeds will benefit the cast and production. Tickets can be purchased at www.kissless.net.

Houston Texans Recognize Schindewolf Teacher

Special education student and family praise Klein ISD educator

 

Spring, Texas — “…My mom tells me that I have the best teacher in the whole wide world. Even with all my disabilities, Ms. Heather makes me feel like I am perfect. She treats me with respect, shows me love, and most of all accepts me for the little boy that I am.”

This letter written on behalf of special needs student Jonathan Charo made the Houston Texans and First Community Credit Union (FCCU) take notice. Being non-verbal is one of Jonathan’s many limitations, prompting
his mother to submit nomination for him. The letter resulted in Schindewolf Intermediate special education teacher Heather Williams being selected as a “Star in the Classroom”. Only in her third year teaching in Klein ISD, Williams was surprised when she heard the news.

“I was in shock. It was a true honor, and to know that a parent nominated me on behalf of their child was very heartwarming,” she recalled. “This was an amazing, once in a lifetime experience. I had been to a
game when I was younger, but this time knowing I was there for a reason, a good reason, made it all that much more special.”

The Texans recognized Williams during a game at Reliant Stadium on August 20. She received four sideline tickets, a Texans jersey, and an invitation to the Texans and FCCU banquet at the end of the season. Additionally, a Texans player will visit Williams and her classroom this fall.

“She is awesome! For her to care the way she does for these kids, you can tell it’s not just a job for her but rather it’s her passion,” expressed Mrs. Charo, who jumped at the opportunity to nominate Williams for
the award. “I can’t say enough about Ms. Williams and her outstanding staff. As a mom of a kid with special needs, it is such a relief to know I can trust her and the school to take care of my son.”

Schindewolf Principal Debbie Hamilton could not agree more.

“We are thrilled that Ms. Williams has been recognized formthe outstanding work she is doing in the classroom,” said Hamilton. “We are as equally pleased to see that our community and parents are taking notice of the good things happening on our campuses every single day.”

For Williams, working in Klein ISD is a family affair. Not only did she attend school here, but also both parents work in the district. She attributes her passion to teach to both her family and coworkers.

“I get to come to work every day with such a great support system,” said Williams. “Being here, teaching these kids, and seeing the smile on their faces is a dream come true.”