THE WHOLE KID & KABOODLE -Fall 2023

The Team

Summer 2023

Table of Contents

Jerri’s Corner

God Never Ceases to Amaze Me And He Does Have a Sense of Humor

A few of us have been gathering, at the little park in Humble on Main St., on the first Friday of the month for prayer and praise. We have been meeting for four years and have never canceled because of the weather. There have been concerns and several times I questioned God if I should cancel. When rain is forecast, of course, the musicians are concerned about their equipment and a few have canceled but someone always stepped up in their place. Once, storms were forecast along with 100% rain during the time that we were to gather but it stopped before we started and when we finished and had loaded up, I was in the car and it came a downpour. Then there was that July day in the summer of 21 that had been predicted to be the hottest day of the year. I was seriously concerned and asked God to send us a supernatural breeze. I did that in a half joking manner but God was not going to be out done. The wind started blowing as soon as I began setting up the table with refreshments. The tablecloth kept blowing off and I had to weight it down with drinks and food. As our prayer began I realized that the wind had blown so hard that the food was sliding off of the table along with the tablecloth. I ran and barely saved it. I looked at the little tree in the park and it was leaning halfway over from the wind. That is when I realized that it was only blowing right where we were. The trees in the parking lot and across the street were still, not a leaf moving. We had packed up about to leave and were commenting about the nice breeze that had been sent to us when we realized that it was totally still with not a hint of wind. I could imagine God laughing at us and with us.

On the Cover

This summer of 23 we have been in the throes of historic heat. As I was getting ready to leave on the evening of August 4th to go to the park, I received a text from my son who informed me that it was 103 I again said to God. Please send us another supernatural breeze. I shouldn’t have been surprised when I couldn’t get my tablecloth to lay down. One of the men worked with me as we both laughed and then gave up and just put everything on the table. I noticed the little flag on the wall just outside the park was flapping in the wind and the two little trees were leaning over with the wind pressure. But again, the trees that were just beyond us were totally still. And as expected, just as we finished and had packed everything up, we were saying our goodbyes and it was totally still. I so have fun fellowshipping with our God. I think He has fun with us as well.

Jerri Bankston CEO/Owner/Publisher/Editor

Sherrie Stone Graphic Designer

Rebecca Goff Marketing Prayer and Praise Coordinator

Martin Sales and Marketing for Crockett and surrounding areas

The little monkeys are Kade, Travis, Dylan, Brittany and Sara. Their grandparents are Troy and Ramona Henry of Willis.

Three

Marsala’s

IHop Humble

Jason’s

Denny’s Tuesdays

Hectors

Dickey’s

The Puzzle Pieces of Life

Ephesians 1:9-11: “God has now revealed to us his mysterious will regarding Christ – which is to fulfill his own good plan. And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ – everything in heaven and on earth. Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.”

Call me old school, but I love a good puzzle…taking the pieces out of the box, laying them all over the table, piecing the puzzle together sides first, working your way to the middle, and, of course, leaving the hard sections for last. You’re determined by that point, it makes the difficult areas easier because you’re so close to finishing it. Whether you finish in one afternoon or a few days, the feeling of accomplishment is there, proud of your time and energy. Show the family, leave it out for a bit, and then allow the kids to wreck it, storing it back in the box for another day.

Sometimes, in life, the puzzle pieces all fit together and you think, Wow, that was easier than I thought it would be!  Other times, the pieces are picked up and thrown all over the floor, and, you’re struggling to find them all to even begin to put it together.

In moments where the pieces are haphazardly strewn around, that’s when God is moving the most powerfully. God never intends for the puzzle of your life to ever be exactly the same, in every season. The pieces of your life may have to be shaken up to bring you closer to Him.

Reading Ephesians 1:9-11 urges us to remember that God always has a plan, a plan where everything always works out…not in the perfect, satisfying puzzle piece fitting together type of way, but rather in a way that might not always make sense.

Remembering God puts everything together, and back together again, will help you when chaos comes. The next time your life feels thrown around, the puzzle pieces of your life not quite where they should be, remember God created the puzzle originally, choosing us in advance and placing us in the world at the perfect time and place. At the end of our lives, maybe in heaven we can sit with God and look at the finished puzzle of our lives. Then, we can sit back and admire the hard seasons which helped to propel us to the plan He originally set before we were ever born.

Erica Cox is originally from Kansas and moved to Texas five years ago with her husband, Sam, and three children. She is currently the Children’s Pastor at Magnolia Bible Church. Connecting with children and watching them develop a love of the Bible and a relationship with the Lord is life-affirming.

Las piezas del rompecabezas de la vida

Efesios 1:9-11: “Dios ahora nos ha revelado su misteriosa voluntad con respecto a Cristo, que es cumplir su propio buen plan. Y este es el plan: En el momento adecuado reunirá todo bajo la autoridad de Cristo, todo en el cielo y en la tierra. Además, porque estamos unidos a Cristo, hemos recibido una herencia de Dios, porque Él nos eligió de antemano, y hace que todo funcione de acuerdo con su plan”.

Llámame de la vieja escuela, pero me encanta un buen rompecabezas... Sacar las piezas de la caja, colocarlas sobre la mesa, juntar el rompecabezas primero, abrirse camino hacia el medio y, por supuesto, dejar las secciones difíciles para el final. Estás determinado por ese punto, hace que las áreas difíciles sean más fáciles porque estás muy cerca de terminarlo. Ya sea que termines en una tarde o en unos pocos días, la sensación de logro está ahí, orgulloso de tu tiempo y energía. Muéstrale a la familia, déjalo un poco y luego permite que los niños lo destruyan, guardándolo en la caja para otro día.

A veces, en la vida, todas las piezas del rompecabezas encajan y piensas, ¡Guau, eso fue más fácil de lo que pensé que sería!  Otras veces, las piezas se recogen y se tiran por todo el suelo, y estás luchando por encontrarlas todas para comenzar a juntarlas.

En los momentos en que las piezas están esparcidas al azar, es cuando Dios se mueve más poderosamente. Dios nunca tiene la intención de que el rompecabezas de tu vida sea exactamente el mismo, en cada temporada. Las piezas de tu vida pueden tener que ser sacudidas para acercarte a Él.

La lectura de Efesios 1:9-11 nos insta a recordar que Dios siempre tiene un plan, un plan donde todo siempre funciona... No en el tipo de pieza de rompecabezas perfecta y satisfactoria que encaja, sino más bien de una manera que no siempre tiene sentido.

Recordar que Dios pone todo junto, y de nuevo juntos, te ayudará cuando llegue el caos.  La próxima vez que su vida se sienta tirada, las piezas del rompecabezas de su vida no estén exactamente donde deberían estar, recuerde que Dios creó el rompecabezas originalmente, eligiéndonos de antemano y colocándonos en el mundo en el momento y lugar perfectos. Al final de nuestras vidas, tal vez en el cielo podamos sentarnos con Dios y mirar el rompecabezas terminado de nuestras vidas. Entonces, podemos sentarnos y admirar las temporadas difíciles que ayudaron a impulsarnos al plan que Él originalmente estableció antes de que naciéramos.

Erica Cox es originaria de Kansas y se mudó a Texas hace cinco años con su esposo, Sam, y sus tres hijos. Actualmente es pastora de niños en la Iglesia Bíblica Magnolia. Conectarse con los niños y verlos desarrollar un amor por la Biblia y una relación con el Señor afirma la vida.

LOCAL PARKS AND ACTIVITIES

Carter Park, Collins Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Jesse h. Jones & nature Center, kiCkerillo-MisCher Preserve, anD PunDt Park

Offers canoe/kayak launches at for those interested in canoeing/kayaking Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and associated waterways. Reservations are required to use a launch to access Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, or associated waterways. Reservations are not required to use the launch at Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve to access Marshall Lake.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts can experience many unique fishing opportunities year-round, with access to fishing in Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and stocked fishing lakes.

Creek Greenway, with over 16 miles of paved trail system along Spring Creek, is also accessible from the park’s Judy Overby Bell Trail and Jones Bender Trail.

PiCniCs

Offers free picnic pavilions with electricity and grills by reservation only at Burroughs Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Meyer Park, and Spring Creek Park. Jesse Jones Park & Nature Center and Mercer Botanic Gardens also offer free picnic pavilions by reservation only, but electricity is not available at these locations. Any parks not listed above that offer small picnic pavilions, picnic tables, or grills are available for use without a reservation on first come, first served basis only during normal park hours

Jones Park

Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is a premier 312-acre nature preserve open daily to visitors free of charge. The park features a variety of plant and wildlife species, white sand beaches along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs with century-old cypress trees, and a pristine floodplain located in a hardwood and pine forest. All features are accessible by over eight miles of paved, handicap-friendly pedestrian trails and several unpaved primitive trails. The Spring

sPring Creek Park

This 114-acre facility features one unlighted softball field, one lighted basketball pavilion, two lighted tennis courts, a small barbecue pavilion, a large barbecue pavilion, eight RV/camper hookups, three tent camping sites, one primitive camping area, a playground, trails, picnic tables, barbecue grills, an archery range, a sand volleyball court, and a rest room/shower pavilion. Free tent & rv CaMPing

Overnight camping is offered at no cost to public RV and tent campers at Spring Creek Park. Groups and individuals are permitted to camp up to 7 continuous nights per month. Long-term camping or camping outside of designated areas is not permitted.

Boundless Mercy dba The Ark Bakery & Café,

Boundless Mercy, a non-profit anti-trafficking organization, seeks freedom for those in the sex trade. The purpose is to raise public awareness of sex trafficking in Northeast Houston and provide emotional and spiritual support to people employed in strip clubs, brothels, and sex

shops in our local area. Its subsidiary, Boundless Mercy dba The Ark Bakery & Café, is the public face of the organization. The Ark combats trafficking in tangible ways by making every crumb count. Specifically, it produces and sells packaged baked goods and entrées to fund anti-trafficking initiatives. The next steps will be to unite production and sales under one roof and provide corporately endowed culinary internships at a fair wage to individuals desiring to exit the sex industry.

In July 2011, a small team of concerned women began a weekly prayer meeting around a kitchen table. They prayed for those ensnared in the sex industry – whether as employees, victims, traffickers, pimps, customers, or business owners. They prayed for law enforcement, appropriate legislation, public awareness of the problem in our city, and for medical workers. As they began networking with other organizations and attending information sessions, they also prayed for people they met who had a heart for aftercare, rehabilitation, restoration, and rescue. The list kept growing, and the women kept praying…never intending to establish an organization or do anything more than pray.

However, in December 2011, two of the prayer team felt burdened to visit sex industry workers and began visiting employees in one strip club and one brothel in Northeast Houston. Their hearts were profoundly gripped by the need for support and encouragement people expressed, as well as by the appreciative welcome they experienced. Without any official structure, business plan, or funding source, the ladies gave out what they had most readily available: cookies! Both were mothers of five children, former homeschooling moms, and had spent their entire lives baking and cooking from scratch for their families. They never intended to continue this activity indefinitely, but somehow they found themselves visiting more and more sex industry locations and fell into an every-other-week routine. Before long, they became known to those employed in local sex industry businesses and were distributing thousands of cookies (accompanied by a brief handwritten note for each gift bag recipient) a year. Essentially, the team has been serving as chaplains to sex industry employees in northeast Houston for nearly 12 years.

A couple of years after that first outreach, Boundless Mercy became the name of the ministry; it ultimately acquired 501(c)3 non-profit status, with The Ark Bakery & Café subsequently becoming the online “public face” of Boundless Mercy in 2018/2019. Although both parts of the organization have Facebook pages, only The Ark has a website, as it is important to protect the confidentiality of the outreach team’s activities and the individuals still working in the sex industry; those relationships of trust have taken time to build, and the team

cherishes the friendship with those they visit. They currently produce and distribute over 8000 cookies per year (given away at no cost to sex industry workers). The team secures permission from club managers and madams to distribute the cookies and provide encouragement and spiritual support to employees. Boundless Mercy does not publish the names of the people or locations visited by its outreach teams.

On the other hand, The Ark Bakery & Café (www.thearkbakerycafe.org) currently produces cottage industry baked goods as well as commercially produced main dish items for sale to the public. Volunteers work in two local commissary kitchen spaces with proper licensing. In March this year, a sales outlet for baked goods and entrées was opened. All items are sold frozen for

Left to right: Christine Ege, Founder and Linda Grim, Operations Director.

consumption off-premise, and all funds beyond production expenses are funneled back into anti-trafficking initiatives. The current goal is to expand the customer base enough to be able consolidate production and sales under one roof before seeking culinary internship funds to hire individuals who wish to exit the sex industry. (Many people have never worked outside the sex industry, have no education, and no job training. They would welcome a fair wage job in a supportive work environment.)

Human trafficking – and every expression of injustice, for that matter – has its roots in de-personalizing, de-humanizing, and objectifying other people, all of whom are made in the image of God. When we de-personalize and commoditize another human being, we commit an egregious sin. Every person has value.

Secondly, given a different set of circumstances and vulnerabilities, any of us could have been trafficked. Without financial, physical, and emotional assistance from a supportive family and community, young mothers find themselves with no other avenue (outside of the sex industry) to feed their children. They often have no parental guidance and have no means of continuing their education or job training. People respond to simple kindness. It is a privilege to earn their trust and refer them to sources that can offer practical help, counseling, and job opportunities. When friends in the sex industry ask the team to pray with them, the Holy Spirit brings comfort, direction, and encouragement. A sense of being an orphan pervades much of our culture – even adults can feel abandoned, rejected, and orphaned. Most people simply want someone to listen to them; they need and want to be heard. It is a tremendous joy to listen to people and encourage them to have hope for a better future.

Just as God asked Moses to notice what was in his hand (something very ordinary to Moses – a simple shepherd’s staff) and anointed that staff powerfully to bring freedom to an entire nation of people, God wants us to notice what we have in our hands that we can give away. Usually He asks us to give what we have and not worry about what we don’t have. In the case of Boundless Mercy, we have the gift of loving people through a culture of food and family. We are wives and mothers with grown children. We are ordinary grandmothers with decades of experience in the kitchen and our homes. We give ourselves away in ordinary ways, albeit in extraordinary settings!

The people the outreach team visits are a source of inspiration. Sex industry workers often are parents with dreams for their children; they face challenges and pressures far greater than ours, but they are survivors. They demonstrate incredible perseverance, even under very difficult circumstances.

The people we work with also serve as a source of inspiration. The entire staff is composed of volunteers. Boundless Mercy’s volunteers have developed a wonderful camaraderie and community.

Ways to get involved:

1. Become a regular customer! Check out the (currently limited) opening hours on our website (www. thearkbakerycafe.org) and consider purchasing some delicious meals for your family or friends. Help make every crumb count!

2. Become a volunteer by contacting Linda Grim, operations director, at linda@thearkbakerycafe.org

3. Become an awareness session host! Invite Christine Ege (founder & executive director) and Linda Grim to speak for your group by contacting linda@thearkbakerycafe.org. The Ark Bakery Sales Outlet, 1801 Kingwood Drive, Suite 175, 77339 (832)742-1247

LAKE HOUSTON AREA

LIBRARIES

Atascocita Branch Library

19520 Pinehurst Trail Dr, Atascocita, TX 77346

Hours: Mon. 11a-6p / Tue. 10a-8p / Wed. 10a-6p

Thu. 10a-8p / Fri. 1p-6p / Sat. 10a-5p

Phone: (832) 927-5560

Octavia Fields Branch Library

1503 S Houston Ave, Humble, TX 77338

Hours: Mond 11a-8p / Tues 10a - 6p / Wed 10a - 8p

Thurs 10a - 6p / Fri 1p - 6p / Sat 10a - 5p

Phone: (832) 927-5500

Kingwood Branch Library

4400 Bens View Ln, Kingwood, TX 77339

Hours: Monday, 10am-8pm / Tues.10am-8pm / Wed. 10am8pm

Thurs. 10am-9pm / Fri, 1pm-6pm / Sat. 10am-5pm

Phone: (832) 927-7830

http://www.hcpl.net/location/kingwood-branch-library

Work-Life Balance

As Seth Bayley entered his senior year of high school at Kingwood Park last fall, his mother Sindy wanted to find a job that would allow her to spend more quality time with him. Sindy, who moved with her family from New York City four years ago, decided to trade in her METRORail keys for a set of keys to an Humble ISD school bus for the 2022-2023 school year.

The career change for Sindy gave her major benefits, the biggest being on the same break schedule as her senior son.

“I was off when he was off, holidays, the additional weeks off in October and February for family time and scheduling vacation time and the whole summer,” Sindy said. “That was the biggest bonus.”

Sindy starts her day at 6 a.m. and works until roughly 9:30 a.m. on her morning shift. In the afternoon, she works from about 2 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. taking the children back home.

During the middle of the day, that free time allows her to run errands, set doctor appointments, and attend parentteacher conferences. “A lot of personal time to get to do what people can’t normally do during the week,” Sindy said of the midday break. “It’s a big benefit. Especially for me, because I brought my mother with me when I moved from New York and I get to help her out in the middle of my day.”

As Sindy prepared to return back to work for her second year as an Humble ISD bus driver in August, she was most excited to see her bus riders again. Known as “Ms. B” on her bus, Sindy said the best part of her day is seeing them step onto her bus for the first part of their school day. “The joy is seeing them in the morning and seeing them happy and smiling,” she said. “If they have a theme day, you get to see them dress up. On my bus, if it is someone’s birthday we sing happy birthday and get to celebrate.”

Benefits of Driving with Humble ISD TRAINING

Humble ISD provides training to bus drivers throughout the school year to create the safest environment for students and staff who are transported by bus. Each summer all bus drivers get back-to-school safety training. New drivers get Entry Level Driver Training to become certified, which takes three to four weeks. Safety meetings are held with bus drivers every other month during the school year.

“We focus on safe driving,” Humble ISD Lead Trainer Carlton Shannon said. “All the training we do is consistent and catered to our district. With training here, drivers pick up our students and know where all the schools are during their training. They get district familiarity and their CDL at the same time.”

COMPETITIVE SALARY

Humble ISD bus drivers enjoy more time with family Apply Now!

Trainees are paid $13.54 per hour and once they become certified, the pay is increased to $20 per hour. Region 4 also requires drivers to take an eight hour recertification course every three years.

SERVICE FOR DRIVERS’ CHILDREN

Humble ISD Transportation offers a service to its drivers who have children who attend a school in the district. The bus driver can bring their child with them to the North or South Transportation Center and they will be transported to their school at the beginning of the day and back to the transportation center from school at the end of the school day.

Drivers also work on the same schedule as students and teachers, getting all the same breaks, including the summer off.

“Bus drivers have such a positive impact on Humble ISD students. Bus drivers are the first school staff members students see in the morning, and the last school staff members students see in the afternoon. We are so thankful to have dedicated bus drivers in Humble ISD. They care about kids and transport our students safely to where they need to be.”

Dr. Elizabeth Fagen, Humble ISD Superintendent of Schools Follow Dr. Fagen @ElizabethFagen

Humble ISD Bus Driver Sindy Bayley

Now Open

Woodland Hills Elementary

Fairytale Playground

Park Lakes Elementary Safari Playground

Elm Grove Elementary

Treehouse Playground

River Pines Elementary

Rainforest Playground

Creekwood Middle

Obstacle & Fitness Course

Humble ISD is reinvesting in our community

Over the next six years, new immersive, imaginatively-themed playgrounds are being added at every elementary school along with new outdoor obstacle and fitness courses at every middle school.

• Built on handicap-accessible, poured-in-place rubber surfaces with fall protection

• Open to the public when school is not in session

GROWING IN CLEVELAND

Cleveland Independent School District (CISD) is proud to offer a range of exceptional Career Tech programs that empower students and equip them with valuable skills for their future careers. In this article, we highlight three standout programs: Culinary Arts, Welding, and Robotics. Let’s explore the remarkable achievements and opportunities that await the talented students of Cleveland ISD.

Under the leadership of Andi Pope, the Culinary Arts program at Cleveland High School has achieved tremendous success both regionally and statewide.

At the district level, the students competed in various categories, including Employment Application Process, Culinary Arts, Commercial Baking, Restaurant Service, and Career Pathway Showcase. Their exceptional performance led to remarkable positions, with the team securing 3rd place in Employment Application Process, 1st place in Culinary Arts, 4th place in Commercial Baking, and 2nd and 3rd places in Restaurant Service. The students’ achievements were further recognized as two of them were elected as District Officers for the upcoming school year, highlighting their leadership skills and dedication.

In addition to their success in competitions, the Culinary Arts students often showcase their talents at local events. Recently, the students participated in the highly anticipated Taste of Cleveland event. Competing against 30+ other businesses, organizations, and churches, Cleveland ISD Culinary Arts demonstrated their culinary expertise. Their signature dish, the Mini Beef Wellingtons, captivated the taste buds of attendees and garnered recognition. At the conclusion of the event, Cleveland ISD Culinary Arts was honored with the prestigious Best Overall Food award, cementing their reputation for excellence.

Under the leadership of Jim Baxter, the Welding program at Cleveland High School has achieved remarkable success and recognition.

Throughout the 2022-2023 school year, the welding students amassed an impressive total of 63 certifications, solidifying their expertise in the field. These certifications include various levels of proficiency in welding techniques such as SMAW and GMAW, covering areas like plate welding and pipe welding. Their commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, as the students secured a staggering $139,500 in scholarships.

Bryan Ramirez, a junior in welding II, emerged as a standout competitor, participating in nine Level III competitions. He showcased his proficiency by earning five certifications per AWS, including achievements in plate welding and pipe welding using SMAW and GMAW techniques. Ramirez’s exceptional performance was rewarded with $29,500 in scholarships, a testament to his skill and dedication to his craft.

Israel Briones, a senior in welding I, made a significant impact despite it being his first year at CISD. Briones quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, starting in Level I and earning certifications in SMAW and GMAW plate welding. His determination propelled him to advance to Level III, where he obtained a certification in SMAW pipe welding. Briones secured $1,500 in scholarships, reflecting his remarkable progress and dedication.

Jacob Becerra, a junior in Intro to Welding, overcame the challenges posed by NCCER Core, a curriculum that limited his welding time during school hours. Undeterred, Becerra showcased his drive and motivation by staying after school three to four days a week to pursue his passion for

Cleveland ISD is led by Superintendent Stephen W. McCanless. Mr. McCanless is a Native Texan, havingbeenraisedinandcompletingallofhispublicschoolyearsinChannelviewISD. Being from a family of 4 brothers and 5 sisters, McCanless says that education was always a topic of discussionatthedinnertable.Mr. Science from San Jacinto College, his Bachelor’s Degree in Literature and Master’s Degree in EducationManagement,bothfrom all course work for his Ed.Din Educational Supervision at Lamar University.. Mr. McCanless’s philosophyis,“Everychildcanlearn;ourjobistosupportandinspiretheminthisjourney”.

welding. His perseverance paid off as he earned a certification in FCAW plate welding and was awarded $500 in scholarships.

Under the leadership of Brian Stafford, the Robotics program at Cleveland High School is making waves in the world of aeronautics and engineering.

The Robotics program reached an extraordinary milestone as the Aeronautical Engineering or drone class achieved a 100% passing rate on the FAA Part 107 Commercial Drone licensing exam. This remarkable accomplishment allows Cleveland ISD students to enter the workforce as highly sought-after drone pilots immediately after graduating high school, with starting salaries of up to $85,000 per year.

In addition to excelling in the field of drones, a student named Jorge Penna made history by becoming the first-ever from Cleveland High School to pass the FAA Private Pilot Ground School Exam. His exceptional achievement earned him acceptance into the Pilot Program at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, widely regarded as the most prestigious aeronautical university in the world. This recognition not only highlights the student’s dedication and skill but also speaks to the quality of

education and mentorship provided by the Robotics program at CISD.

Looking to the future, the Robotics program is set to embark on new ventures. Cleveland High School will be one of only 30 high schools in the country to participate in the groundbreaking Tango Flight program. Through this program, students will have the opportunity to build an FAA Airworthiness Certified airplane, specifically a Van’s RV-12iS. This hands-on experience will not only deepen their understanding of aviation and aerospace but also provide practical skills in engineering and robotics. The program, offered as a dual credit opportunity through WSU, will also present students with the chance to pursue FAA exam certification and avail themselves of a scholarship exclusively offered by Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Recipients of this scholarship can receive $5,000 per year, renewable for up to four years, totaling $20,000.

Cleveland ISD’s Career Tech programs in Culinary Arts, Welding, and Robotics are transforming the lives of students and preparing them for successful futures. The achievements of the Culinary Arts students at SkillsUSA, the exceptional welding certifications earned by dedicated individuals, and the groundbreaking accomplishments of the Robotics program highlight the district’s commitment to excellence. By providing students with practical skills, real-world experiences, and opportunities for certifications and scholarships, Cleveland ISD is empowering its students to shine brightly in their chosen careers.

havingbeenraisedinandcompletingallofhispublicschoolyearsinChannelviewISD. discussionatthedinnertable.Mr.

EducationManagement,bothfrom philosophyis,“Everychildcanlearn;ourjobistosupportandinspiretheminthisjourney”.

isaNativeTexan,having been raised in and completing all of his public school years in Channelview ISD. saysthateducationwasalwaysatopicofdiscussion at the dinner table. Mr. McCanlessreceived his Associates Degree in Social SciencefromSanJacintoCollege,hisBachelor’sDegreeinLiteratureandMaster’sDegreeinEducation Management, both from University of Houston Clear Lake. McCanlesshas completed philosophy is, “Every child can learn; our job is to support and inspire them in this journey”.

CLEVELAND INDIANS 2023

2023-24 HighSchool Football Schedule

HS - Football (M) Varsity

Trusting God’s Plan

By Deborah Elum, Author & Producer

It all began when I visited my doctor’s office and handed the receptionist my insurance card. I promptly paid the required amount, believing it to be correct according to my insurance plan. However, after receiving a bill in the mail for the remaining portion, I was puzzled as I thought my insurance would cover more. The process of resolving the issue involved going back and forth between my doctor’s office and my insurance company. Each of them pointed fingers at the other, leaving me unsure of who was right. Yet, I remained committed to finding the truth and resolving the matter.

A few weeks later, while scheduling my next appointment, I noticed that my insurance card had the wrong plan listed on it. The error had gone unnoticed by me and my insurance company for months. After I contacted the company, I was issued the correct insurance card.

As a Believer, we are called to seek truth and trust in God’s plan for us, no matter what others are telling us. In John 8:32, it is written, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” This Scripture reminds us that seeking truth enables us to know what God really wants for our life.

Seeking truth is not always an easy or effortless process; it may require patience and persistence. Yet, when we put our trust in God’s plan, we know that His plan contains benefits paid for by the blood of Jesus. In His plan are the benefits of peace, love, joy, prosperity, hope, healing, and so much more.

Just like I received my new card with the correct benefits, you need to trust God’s plan and receive all the benefits that belong to you. You can contact Deborah at P.O. Box 1594, Humble, Texas 77347-1594 or calling (281) 878-2062.

Listen to Deborah’s Podcast at: https://redcircle.com/shows/ changing-your-life-with-the-word

“A Fabulously Fun Read And Just Downright Hilarious!”

It is Time for a Church Overhaul! The Pastor of Sunnydale Community Church just does not know what to do. He is at his wits end with a church of rowdy ladies, a dysfunctional Deacon Board, and one nosey secretary. A Church with Spots and Wrinkles is a hilarious comedy by Deborah Elum. Price $12.95. Available at Amazon.com.

“Grab a Cup Of Coffee and Hold On To Your Funny Bone!”

Grab a cup of coffee and hold on to your funny bone as a pair of twin sisters put a smile on your face, laughter in your heart, and joy in your soul. This light-hearted comedy about sisterhood, romance, and

friendships will leave you thirsting for more. Wake Up and Smell the Coffee! by Deborah Elum. Price $12.95. Available at Amazon.com

Earn a certificate in weeks, not years, at Lone Star College–Kingwood!

View a complete list of course offerings at LoneStar.edu/continuing-education. For more information, email LSCKCE@LoneStar.edu or call 281.312.1660.

A+ Certification

Can be completed in one semester. The A+ Certification Training Program prepares individuals for a career as a computer technician in the information technology industry.

AutoCAD Draftsman Certificate

Can be completed in three to four months. This certification will prepare individuals for entry-level employment opportunities in drafting and design.

Electrocardiography Monitor Technician Certificate

Can be completed in four to six weeks! Electrocardiogram (EKG) monitor technicians are responsible for monitoring patients’ heart statuses in a hospital environment.

Medical Coder Certificate

Can be completed in eight months. Medical coding professionals review health records and convert medical diagnoses, procedures, services, and equipment into medical codes that are required for billing and reimbursement.

Nurse Aide (CNA) Certificate

Can be completed in 4 to 6 weeks!

A certified nursing assistant (CNA) provides healthcare under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). CNAs work in nursing homes, hospitals, adult day care centers, personal homes and assisted living facilities, serving as critical liaisons between the RN or LVN and the patient.

Clinical Medical Assistant Certificate

Can be completed in five months. This program prepares students to perform various clinical and administrative functions in a facility, which may include preparing treatment rooms for patient examinations, scheduling appointments and maintaining medical records, interviewing patients, measuring vital signs, administering injections, and using equipment to administer routine diagnostic tests.

Dental Assistant Certificate

Can be completed in five months in the weekday track, eight months in the Saturday track. Dental assistants fulfill a wide variety of roles that include preparing patients for dental procedures, ensuring the sterility of the dental environment, assisting dentists during procedures by providing tools and materials, working with suppliers to schedule deliveries, helping patients schedule appointments, and educating patients on proper oral health.

Phlebotomist Certificate

Can be completed in five to six months. Phlebotomy technicians are professionals who draw blood from patients. Blood samples are forwarded to laboratories to check for blood borne symptoms. Phlebotomists can work in all kinds of medical facilities, from hospitals to private laboratories.

Substitute Teacher Certificate

Can be completed in one month!

The Substitute Teacher Certificate is designed to prepare students with the tools needed for classroom management, lesson planning and guidelines as a substitute teacher.

CHANGING SEASONS

Life changes as the seasons do. Everything has a season—sometimes the season lasts a minute, sometimes it lasts years, but eventually there is a new season on the horizon. What we needed then may not be what we need now, and either way, we might not have control of what exactly is unfolding. Learn to adapt with these changes, not fight against them.

Trying to keep everything the same is like trying to tell the leaves not to fall from the trees in autumn. People in our life are like trees. Trees have leaves, branches and roots.

Most people that come into your life will be like leaves. They are only there for a season. They provide you with some shade and comfort, but when the difficult times come they are easily blown away.

Some friends are like branches. You need to be careful because they look

strong. They stay around for several seasons. But they also have the potential to break if too much weight is put on them.

But a few friends in our life will be like the roots of a tree. They are strong, support us and help us grow. When we find them we are very blessed. Sometimes we don’t even know who they are because they are not looking for recognition. They are there to support you. They are the ones that will hold you up during the storms. We get into trouble when we try to create a lifetime relationship with people only meant to be in our life for a season. They come at a time when you are needing a change or going through a trial. They bring you peace and make you laugh. You needed them just at that time. It was the right time. But only for a season.

It is never easy letting go of someone in your life that you thought was so important. Your destiny is never tied to anyone who leaves you, and it doesn’t mean they are bad people. It just means that their part in your story is over.

It’s okay to say goodbye and still feel love and gratitude. Nothing is ever wasted. Every experience has a meaning in your life. Embracing this is key to happiness. Each new season of life is an opportunity to learn and to grow.

Some of our biggest disappointments can lead to better things and bring us new beginnings.

Paula Enloe worked as a legal assistant for over 25 years and is a certified family law mediator. She is the author of the book “Lessons From My Mirror - Change Begins With Me.” Paula and her husband Noble, began having Bible Studies in their home when Covid-19 restricted public gatherings in church buildings. When their group began to grow, they founded the Family Worship Center of Plum Grove, Texas. In 2022, they moved into a building but continue to keep the home setting inside with couches, tables and chairs. Their motto is “Doing Church Differently”. They count it as their greatest privilege to share the love of Jesus to each person they come in contact with daily.

“There will come a time when you believe everything is finished; that will be the beginning.” – Louis L’Amour

Children 5-15 $35.00

Adults $40.00

Registration due by November 7th.

December 21st from 7-9 pm

Hampton Inn and Suites Houston 14120 Karissa Ct.

We are also accepting gifts for the children. Wrapped and tagged boy or girl and age.

Make a difference by sponsoring a child to have an ‘Amazing Christmas