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FEBRUARY 2020

Sights on

Fort Bend Commissioner Precinct 3

Wendy Duncan $3.95

Love is in the Air Gift Guide

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Election

2020

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CONTRIBUTORS

FEBRUARY 2020

|

VOLUME 17

|

Nancy L. Rommelmann Family Law Attorney Page 5

n umber 2

{Cover Story}

5 Joan Frances Contributor Page 13

13

Cinco Ranch moms enjoyed a football game at Legacy Stadium: Jenny Griffin, Wendy Duncan and Cindy Bassett.

6 Wendy Duncan Has Set Her Sights on Fort Bend Commissioner Precinct 3 with 2020 Vision Improving the quality of life of Precinct 3 residents through mobility and flood control are Wendy Duncan’s top priorities as she runs for the Republican nomination in the March 3rd primary for Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 3.

{Features}

11 LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

4 Exclamation Points!

10 Out & About in the Heart of Katy 12 What’s Kickin’ in Katy

{Columns}

9 Election 2020

A list of the most important election dates this year.

{In Every Issue}

5 Family Law

Top Ten Tips – Post Divorce Survival Guide a.k.a. How to Create the Life You’ve Imagined!

13 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT

Meet Tanner Rangel

{Newsworthy} 11 Tompkins

High School Coach

Named Texans High School Coach of the Year

2

FEBRUARY 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelykaty.com

On the Cover: Wendy Duncan Photo by Audrey Franceen Photography

Special Advertising Section

Coming March

Home Is Where the Heart Is

Expiration: February 29, 2020

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To Advertise: 281.690.4242 FEBRUARY 2020 l

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Exclamation Points!

Associate Publisher, HENRY DIBRELL

Valentine’s and Voting Wow – we are already in February! Happy Valentine’s Day and Happy Primary Election Season!

If you have not decided what to do for your sweetheart for Valentine’s, we have a handy Gift Guide in this month’s edition on page 11. Remember, get that shopping done early!

With early voting for the March primary beginning this month, we also have a complete election calendar for 2020. We have so much action in our elections this year. Pay attention, don’t miss a voting date and let your voice be heard. Voting is a responsibility and a privilege.

We have several big decisions to make this year regarding our elected officials, and a big one Henry Dibrell. is coming up regarding our next County Commissioner for Precinct 3. Our cover story highlights candidate Wendy Duncan, an exciting new face on the Katy political scene. Wendy shares her goals and concerns on flooding, traffic and quality of life for Precinct 3 residents.

The new year is off to a great start for Katy Independent School District’s Tompkins High School Head Football Coach Todd McVey after finishing a recordbreaking season. McVey was presented with two prestigious recognitions from the Houston Texans and was selected as the Houston Texans Coach of the Year. Congratulations Coach McVey – Katy is proud to have you coaching our Falcons!

Have a great Valentine’s Day and remember to vote!

Absolutely yours,

Vol. 17 No. 12 FEBRUARY 2020 4655 Techniplex DR. Ste 700 Stafford, Tx 77477 281-690-4242

www.absolut elyKAT Y.com

Publisher Patti Parish-Kaminski A s s o c iat e P u b l i s h e r Henry Dibrell SE N IOR A CCOU N T E X ECUTI V E Jessica Kij A CCOU N T E X ECUTI V ES Kay Garrett Anna Rawa A RT D IRECTOR Grace Belleza W e b D ESI G N ER Joey Belleza contributOrs Joan Frances Stephanie Rice Nancy L. Rommelmann I N Q UIRIES 281-690-4242 e d i t o r ia l SUB M ISSIO N S patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Henry Dibrell Henry@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

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absolutely! KatyTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2020 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! KatyTM Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! KatyTM Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

Top Ten Tips: Post Divorce Survival Guide a.k.a.

How to Create the Life You’ve Imagined!

Paul S. Metz, DDS, MD • Shelley Seidel, DDS, MD John Orfanos, DDS, MD

By Nancy L. Rommelmann PLLC Family Law Attorney

D

ivorce is a significant milestone in a person’s life and that is no doubt an understatement. How does one navigate through the uncharted waters of life after divorce? Allow yourself to create and embrace a brighter happier life . . . the life that you’ve imagined!

1

Re-energize your job skills/career. Take courses if need be to sharpen your existing skills. Do what you have a strong interest in, or even better, a job that you have a passion for!

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Think “outside the box” when considering new relationships, friendships and neighborhoods to move to. Reinvent yourself! Try something new.

Make certain the “new” is emotionally healthy for you – not destructive.

Become an obsessive accountant of your personal finances. Know where every penny goes.

There’s a lot of online information and free financial counseling available through a multitude of companies to help you with your finances and financial planning for your future.

4

Lean on those you trust and make time to maintain your most important family relationships and friendships.

Family LAW ATTORNEY

Winter Sparkle

5

Don’t hold a perpetual “pity party” for yourself. Allow yourself to feel your emotions, but then move on quickly from the negative ones.

6

You are your children’s most important role model. Be mindful of this in all that you do or say, particularly to your ex-spouse in the presence of your children.

7

Try new hobbies, go back to school or volunteer for a charity you are interested in. Actively seek to broaden your world and experiences. Reevaluate how you spend your time and seek activities that give you joy and a sense of satisfaction. Don’t allow past routine to restrain you.

8 9 10

Maintain certain traditions for the sake of the children, but also purposefully create new ones.

Attend worship services regularly, even if you feel like God isn’t being fair.

Take care of your body: eat properly and exercise regularly.

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old but on building the new.” – Socrates

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Nancy Rommelmann is regularly consulted by local media for her on-air analysis about family law.

Straight Answers • Strategic Thinking Compassionate • Experienced Nancy L. Rommelmann Family Law Attorney

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FEBRUARY 2020 l

5

Photo by Audrey Franceen Photography.

Has Set Her Sights on Fort Bend Commissioner

Precinct 3 with 2020 Vision

W

ith a clear vision Wendy Duncan announced her candidacy for Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 3 more than a year prior to the 2020 election. “Now is the time for motivated and qualified leadership to progress our county forward. Improving our quality of life through mobility and flood control are my top priorities,” Duncan said regarding her bid for election. She is seeking to unseat incumbent Andy Meyers, who has held the position for more than 20 years. Duncan believes it is time for Fort Bend County residents to have a new leader who will offer a fresh perspective.

Seeing Up Close Duncan has used the time since announcing her candidacy to connect with voters and lawmakers alike. She has gained firsthand knowledge of the concerns and challenges she will face in her new role, as well developed a keen insight in how best to navigate these waters with success.

Duncan, a native Texan with an undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M and a master’s degree in Education Administration from the Cover Story

By Stephanie Rice

Wendy Duncan.

University of Houston, is well-suited for taking on the role of Commissioner. “Leadership, communication, education and management are skills I possess, which will enable me to successfully meet the demands of Fort Bend County Commissioner,” said Duncan confidently. Her work as an educator in the classroom for six years, then as assistant principal, has given Duncan the competencies necessary to lead a large organization, effectively mediating conflict while working toward resolution.

As co-owner of a property acquisition and management company with her husband, Duncan has a crystal-clear understanding of what is needed for a community to be a place residents want to be a part of. She understands how to analyze the complicated and ever-changing real estate market, a classic gauge of the wellness of a community. This is an expertise she will apply as Commissioner to improve the quality of life for all Fort Bend County residents in Precinct 3.

Living in the Katy area since 2001 with her husband and three sons has provided Duncan a seasoned viewpoint of the precinct’s needs. “Geographically, I live in the middle of our precinct, and every day, I see what you see. I share your feelings of frustration over our traffic and the gnawing concerns of future flooding. I want low taxes and quality of life for our families, my neighbors – my friends.”

Pol Ad paid for by Wendy Duncan Campaign, James P. Logan, Treasurer.

Eye-Opener: Flood Control As with many of her Fort Bend County neighbors, Hurricane Harvey was an eye-opening experience for Duncan. She had only begun her service as Assistant Vice President of the Willow Fork Drainage District (WFDD) a few months prior to Harvey’s devastation in the region. “I was thankful to have crucial and helpful information to give to our community during and after that crisis,” said Duncan.

In the aftermath of Harvey, Duncan learned from WFDD’s legal counsel, Steve Robinson, that the solutions to Houston’s flooding problems had been known for decades but had only been partially implemented. She felt compelled to work toward acquiring additional flood mitigation for our region by organizing meetings with local, state and federal officials to deliver Robinson’s powerful message of a better path forward for flood control for the Greater Houston Area. During this time, Robinson invited Duncan to be a part of Houston Stronger, which had been working toward this goal for many years. Houston Stronger is a coalition of civic groups, business associations and active citizens from throughout the Texas Gulf Coast region dedicated to working with government officials to implement a comprehensive regional flood and storm resiliency plan that safeguards our citizens and property.

Duncan’s position as Assistant Vice President with the WFDD, a government office serving over 33,000 residents in the Cinco Ranch area of Katy in Fort Bend County, has afforded her the opportunity to learn laws and regulations surrounding the operation of a government body. She was further motivated from her research and became engrossed in promoting flood management solutions. “An active and engaged community is the key ingredient to successful and positive change in society,” explained Duncan.

Through an introduction by Robinson, Duncan met Marlin Williford, a Harris County resident in the Barker Reservoir area, in June of 2018 to discuss flood control solutions for the Barker Reservoir. Barker Flood Prevention Advocacy was quickly formed with Duncan as co-founder. “Flood prevention remains a major issue and concern for our area,” said Duncan.

The purpose of the Barker Reservoir Flood Prevention advocacy group is to identify and promote immediate and

Carter, Wendy, Luke, Rob and Trey Duncan.

Presenting Flood Mitigation projects.

substantive flood control projects in the Barker Reservoir Area, both upstream and downstream. Community meetings, the group’s website (www.barkerfloodprevention.org), Facebook Page (@barkerfloodprevention) and e-newsletters are used to educate the public about flood control solutions for the Barker Reservoir Area and to inspire the public to advocate for these solutions. In her co-founder role, Duncan works with federal, state and local government officials and agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to realize the execution of these flood control solutions. “We have been fortunate to develop positive relationships with those who serve our community in positions of influence and authority.

We will remain steadfast in our resolve to get these solutions completed, as well as empower and support community groups who are working to implement solutions in support of flood control initiatives,” said Duncan.

As Commissioner, Duncan will continue to focus on implementing regional solutions to get Fort Bend County residents out of the 100-year flood plain. “I have been meeting with residents, government officials and engineers to identify viable solutions for Fort Bend County Precinct 3 that will provide better protection along Jones Creek, Bessie’s Creek, Buffalo Bayou, the Brazos River and the Barker Reservoir.

The lack of adequate flood control infrastructure is the cause of on-going loss of life and property damage from flooding.

We can build infrastructure that will help control and reduce chronic flooding in seasonal rain events.”

Foresight: Traffic and Road Noise Precinct 13 has seen tremendous growth in the last decade, and with it has come increased traffic and road noise. Twentyfour years ago before much of the development west of the Grand Parkway began, an opportunity existed to create northsouth corridors between 1-10 and FM 1093. Unfortunately, that opportunity has passed, and Fort Bend County Precinct 3 residents are currently left with a patchwork of roads which produce gridlock and less than adequate mobility. Duncan has the foresight to see the problem will only grow as the surrounding communities continue to develop. “We need to build mobility infrastructure that meets the demands of our population growth. This is a huge quality of life issue for a lot of people and one that must be addressed.”

For more information on Duncan, visit www.wendyforcommissioner.com.

Duncan acknowledges that road projects are behind schedule, over budget and inadequate to meet the everincreasing population demand resulting in traffic problems, which produce extended travel times to work and school.

“Grand Parkway, the Westpark Tollway and Cane Island Parkway must be our focus to decrease commute times and get people home to their families,” explained Duncan.

• Cane Island Parkway was obsolete when it opened.

Duncan believes this road should have been built with at least two lanes in each direction and an added right turn lane at the eastbound intersection of I-10. To date, it is a twolane road resulting in frustrating access to beautiful, vibrant neighborhoods.

• Grand Parkway has been labeled one of the deadliest highways in Texas. There are no continuous access roads in the Fort Bend County portion of Hwy 99 between 1-10 and FM 1093. Currently, there are only plans to add frontage roads on the west side between Cinco Ranch Boulevard and Westheimer Parkway and between Fry Road and FM 1093.

• The Westpark Tollway has cost more than double its original budget and was years behind schedule before completion.

• The failure to implement coordinated long-term planning 10 years ago for the 1093 expansion has caused school children to be chronically late to school for months. Currently, Fulshear residents are experiencing extreme commute times for short distances. Road segments approved by voters in the 2013 Mobility Bond could have helped reduce some of this gridlock if they had been built in a timely manner.

Duncan will partner with TxDOT, cities, municipal utility districts, school districts and county engineers to develop a long–range mobility plan, implement projects strategically and communicate effectively with residents to find more optimal solutions. “I also want to work on solutions to reduce the noise from the highways,” said Duncan. She has been working in tandem with other community leaders and residents to address this on-going concern. TxDOT plans to add one lane to Grand Parkway (between Westpark Tollway and I-10) in each direction in an upcoming expansion project.

Wendy Duncan celebrated the Grand Opening of the Butterfly Garden at Willow Fork Park with fellow board members Joe Robinson, Dick Ward, Dan Smith and John Poulter.

Included in this project is the potential for adding sound abatement solutions. Additional noise reduction features may be needed, and Duncan is committed to continuing her work with TxDOT to acquire complementary solutions to this quality of life issue.

As traffic and noise-reduction initiatives progress, Duncan emphasizes short-term and long-term planning “must be done with community input, coordination with all government entities and agencies, excellent communications and efficient execution of the projects.”

Insight: Higher than Average Property Taxes Most people you talk to in Fort Bend County will say they pay extremely high property taxes. They are correct.

Fort Bend County residents pay the second highest county property tax in Texas, and Fort Bend County is the seventh highest in total taxes collected in Texas. Even with this heavy tax burden, Precinct 3 does not have the road and flood infrastructure, parks and trails and facilities to show for this taxation. Commuters sit in gridlock traffic all over Precinct 3, and no flood management has been added to the area despite three significant flood events in four years. The bond projects taxpayers have approved are behind schedule and over budget. Broken contracts have caused costly lawsuits, and frivolous engineering studies are conducted with no intent to actually perform the work. This mismanagement has cost Fort Bend County property owners over $100 million.

Duncan will work to reduce the tax burden by managing projects more efficiently and reducing wasteful spending.

2020 Vision: Fort Bend County Precinct 3 As Commissioner, Duncan will continue to do her best to provide a quality service to Fort Bend County Precinct 3 residents through quick response to issues, accessibility to residents and other local officials and to actively promote the community in which we live. Duncan considers communication, accountability, integrity and inclusion of constituents in the decision-making process the mainstays of how she will lead as Commissioner. “Unlike state or federal government, county government is focused on issues that are non-partisan in nature – roads and bridges, drainage and flood management, health and human services and safety – to name a few. All of these issues affect each individual resident regardless of party affiliation. As Commissioner, I will work for all residents in Precinct 3 of Fort Bend County.

I absolutely will not stand idly by while we all go down the same path that Precinct 3 has been on for the past 20 years.

Residents need to be in control of their own destiny,” said Duncan.

For more information on Duncan, visit www.wendyforcommissioner.com.

Pol Ad paid for by Wendy Duncan Campaign, James P. Logan, Treasurer.

February 3rd: This is the May 26th: Primary Runoff last day to register to vote Election Day. This is the voter’s and be eligible to cast a ballast chance to be heard in who lot in the March primaries. the Republicans or Democrats Are you already registered to nominate in any runoff races. vote? To check your status or Check www.fortbendcountytx. to register to vote, visit www. gov for polling locations. votetexas.gov/register-to-vote.

July 13th – 16th: DemoFebruary 18th – 28th: Earcratic National Convention ly voting starts in the Texas (DNC). Delegates will convene primaries and will continue to officially select and nominate for 10 days. Check www.forttheir picks for the Democratic bendcountytx.gov for polling presidential ticket. Typically a getting organized is one of your New Year’s locations and times. single candidate is a standout Resolutions, here’s a list of the most important February 21st: This is the before the DNC, but it is poselection dates this year, because Election 2020 is last day to request a ballot to sible that no candidate wins a shaping up to be a busy voting year. majority of delegates in the privote by mail in the primaries.

Individuals are eligible to vote early by mail in Texas if they are: maries, and the party will have a contested convention on its hands.

• 65 years or older; • Disabled; August 24th – 27th: Republican National Convention • Out of the country on election day and during the period (RNC). Republican Party delegates will convene to officially of early voting by personal appearance; or select its presidential ticket. As of press date, President Don• Be confined in jail but otherwise eligible. ald J. Trump is likely to lead the ticket on the Republican side To request a ballot to vote by mail, go to of the ballot. www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter.

October 5th: Still not registered to vote? This is the last March 3rd: Primary Election Day! For voters who did not day to register to vote in the general election. vote early, check www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locaOctober 19th – 30th: Early voting tions. period for the general election.

April 27th: With so many candidates, there’s bound to be Check www.fortbendcountytx. runoffs, which happen when a single candidate does not gov for polling locations. cross the 50% threshold in the March primary. This is the October 23rd: This is last day to register to vote and be eligible to cast a ballot in the the last day to request a primary runoffs. ballot to vote by mail for May 15th: Individuals meeting the criteria to vote early the primary if you are eliby mail may do so in the primary runoffs as well. This is gible for early voting. the last day to request a ballot to vote by mail for the primary November 3rd: Elecrunoffs. tion Day 2020. Check www.

May 18th – May 22nd: Early voting in the primary runoffs. fortbendcountytx.gov for pollVoters can only participate in one party’s primary each year. ing locations.

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OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART K AT Y

James E. Taylor High School Homecoming: Brenna Champagne, Audrey Palmer, Allison Parker, Hannah Morgan, Reese Morgan, Grace Nichols and Dylan Herrick.

Katy Area Retired Educators (KARE) actively collected and delivered books to Katy ISD campuses, community businesses and churches through their Book Project. KARE delivered 548 books throughout December, with 434 books delivered to Golbow Elementary and Mayde Creek High School.

Henry Dibrell and Councilwoman Elect Latitia Plummer at the Mike Kubosa Christmas Party.

KARE delivered 333 books to Golbow Elementary: Rita Camel, Marlene Whimpenny, Carol Greenberg, Jeanne Coleman, Melinda Webb with Principal Ann Lalime.

Katy Youth Football players celebrated Christmas with a funfilled party.

Corbin Phillips, Marquis Kennedy, Noel Tovar, Jarvse Dickerson, Shane Strum, Jacob Poole, Jeremiah Smith, Stephen Scott, Mason Negro, Bryce Fisher, Cole Sperry, Jacob Jetton, Anson Stuckly, Ricardo Galvan and Jakson Franklin.

10

Jonathan McDaniel, Adam Smith, Jacob Jetton, Sean Scott and Brandon Strum.

FEBRUARY 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelykaty.com

NEWSWORTHY

Tompkins High School Coach Named Texans High School Coach of the Year The new year is off to a great start for Katy Independent School District’s Tompkins High School (OTHS) Head Football Coach Todd McVey after finishing a recordbreaking season. McVey was presented with two prestigious recognitions from the Houston Texans and was selected as the HousCoach Todd McVey. ton Texans Coach of the Year.

It all began in October 2019 when the OTHS head football coach and campus athletic coordinator was named Houston Texans Coach of the Week. The recognition included a $2,500 check for the OTHS football program.

Recently, McVey learned that he was named the Texans High School Coach of the Year, a coveted honor that comes with an additional $5,000 for the school’s football program.

“These recognitions are a representation of the great things taking place on the field, in the classroom and in the community,” said OTHS Coach Todd McVey. “Showcasing Katy ISD and Falcon pride with coaches from across the country is an honor I will truly cherish.”

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Love

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What’s Kickin’ in

Katy

H

appy Valentine’s Day! And, it’s an exciting primary election season – good luck to all of the candidates! There are lots of exciting things going on this month in Katy – enjoy!

February 2nd Superbowl Faith and Family Watch Party 2710 N. Mason Road Katy, TX 77449 5 – 10 pm Join Katy Christian Ministries for the Superbowl Faith and Family Watch Party! Big screens, comfortable seats, giant inflatable obstacle course, good food and more! Bring the kids to watch the big game in a family environment, enjoying good food and fellowship at the same time. www.ktcm.org/superbowl.

February 7th Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston West - Katy 16435 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77094 6:30 – 11:45 pm Come as a flapper, come as you are. Come as a gangster or a silent screen star. It’s gonna be fun no matter the dress, just bring yourself, and they’ll take care of the rest!

Join the fun as the Katy Area Chamber hosts it’s Annual Gala with a Roaring 20’s theme!

For more information, call 281-391-5289 or visit www.katychamber.com.

February 14th

February 15th Free SAT Practice – Test Session Cinco Ranch Branch Library 2620 Commercial Center Boulevard 10:30 am – 3:30 pm A representative from Princeton Review will administer a practice test to collegebound students in grades 9 through 12. This practice test will prepare students for the actual SAT test. The scores on this practice test will only be shared with the student; they will not be sent to any educational institutions. Bring two #2 pencils, and a non-graphing calculator if available.

Registration is required; sign up by going to the library’s online events calendar at www. fortbend.lib.tx.us or by calling the library at 281-395-1311.

February 17th

February 8th - 9th Promote Your Business Expo at Katy Mills Mall 10 am – 6 pm Join other Katy Area businesses in a time of fun and networking.

For exhibit information, contact 281-645-6363 or email info@greaterhoustonchamber.com.

12

FEBRUARY 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelykaty.com

By Henry Dibrell

Primary Election:

Early Voting

February 18th -28th

February 18th Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours The Hub on 1st 5614 1st Street Katy, TX 77493 5 – 7 pm Join the Chamber for a night of finger foods, drinks and networking!

Contact Ashley DeWispelaere at 281-391-7423.

February 27th - 29th Feed the Hunger Packathon Katy ISD Pavillion 6301 Stadium Lane Katy TX 77494 The goal? Pack 1,000,000 meals for at-risk children. The Packathon is a hands-on service opportunity that is truly rewarding and will bring people together in a way your community may have never seen before.

Visit www.Feedthehunger.org/katy.

February 29th Goal Setting Seminar With a Focus on Work/Life Balance Fort Bend Library – Cinco Ranch Branch 2620 Commercial Center Boulevard Katy, TX 77494 11:30 am As you look into the New Year and New Decade, it’s never too late to start planning your life. What are your dreams?

Will what you are doing get you what you want out of Life? Presented by Timothy Hessler - T Hess, LLC, admission is free but bring a positive attitude. Seating is limited.

Call for reservations at 713-819-6593.

By Joan Frances

High School HOT SHOT Meet Tanner Rangel

A

Ta n n e r

Winning the 2019 State Championship was something Rangel will never forget. “I will treasure this because it was an awesome experience for my team coming together with each player contributing their skill to the overall team. As Aristotle said, ‘The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’

Each player gave all their effort in each game this season, producing an undefeated season and winning the State Championship. And just overall, I really enjoyed winning state with my fellow teammates who I consider my brothers. We worked hard, but had a lot of fun in the process.”

One value Rangel lives by is his faith. “To live as Christ would have. I’m not perfect by any means, but I always strive to be kind and respectful toward others. This value is based upon Matthew 25:39-40 and the second is similar to it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”’

During his free time, Rangel is involved in different church youth programs, such as Hope City Youth,

Young Life Club and Kingsland Baptist Youth. He is a conscientious leader.

“Being a leader as an upperclassmen these past two years has been fulfilling to me because I’ve seen the positive influence my actions have for the younger students on the campus. They have been sharing with me that they are grateful to me for introducing them to Young Life Club and for having a positive impact on their life. I’ve also enjoyed inspiring under classmen by setting an example to eliminate curse words from their vocabulary and music.” Besides sports, Rangel loves to fish in his spare time and attend car meets with fellow Houstonians.

This fall, Rangel will attend Texas A&M. His major is undecided, but he strongly gravitates towards the outdoors, helping and interacting with people. Congratulations Tanner Rangel for your undeniable commitment to your fellow man. Good luck as you move forward to make an impact in your future.

“To live as Christ would have. I’m not perfect by any means, but I always strive to be kind and respectful toward others.” – Tanner Rangel

Photos by Madison Rangel.

ristoi Classical Academy provides students with an academically challenging Classical Liberal Arts education that encourages them to develop a passion for learning and gives them the means to become responsible citizens of virtuous character. Tanner Rangel is a senior who has excelled at academics, sports and extracurricular activities, and he has achieved respect and recognition for accomplishing his goals.

Rangel has taken Advanced Placement and Honor courses throughout his high school career. He is a member of National Honor Society (NHS) and has received Academic Excellence Awards for History, English and Math.

He is also a Student Ambassador for the school. Last year, the beginning year of the program, he was selected as one of two students from his grade by the administration to assist in this program. As a Student Ambassador, he gives tours of the school to parents and prospective program partners. He volunteers his time to setting up, serving and tearing down school events.

He also transports other students to on and off school functions since charter schools do not utilize school bus programs.

Rangel is a member of the All State and All Regional Varsity Football team. This year, his team won the Football State Championship. He is also a Varsity Soccer team player. His favorite teacher is his football coach, Coach BJ Sarver. “He has coached me for the past two years. Coach Sarver really took our team under his wing and challenged us to always give our best effort as individuals and as a team.

He fostered a culture of brotherhood amongst the team, on and off the field.”