PinPointe Cypress Creek Lakes

Contents ON THE COVER: Payal Mandewalkar French Riviera at Cannes, France Photo Credit: NJ Photo Cannes @nj.photo.cannes

Serving the Community of Cypress Creek Lakes

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Payal Mandewalkar: Influencer and Fashion Blogger Realizes her Bollywood Dreams of Glitz and Glamour

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Canine Corner

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Cypress Happenings

18 Around Cypress: 4th @ Fairfield 19 Local Music Calendar 20 Mary Anne Heckman: Cypress Photographer Travels to France for 80th Anniversary of D-Day

12 Summer Heat = Swimsuit Season

22 Cypress School News

14 Best of Cy-Fair: Season’s Harvest Café

23 Dive In! Summertime Reading Fun

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Ask the Doc: Lifestyle Adjustments to Manage Dysphagia

Payal Mandewalkar

PINPOINTE RESIDENT PROFILE

Cypress Influencer and Fashion Blogger Realizes Her Bollywood Dreams of Glitz and Glamour

By Patricia Hudson “Fashion is an individual’s statement of self-expression. What one wears should make them feel powerful, confident and beautiful in their own skin” - Payal Mandewalkar, Times-Bulletin

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ayal Mandewalkar was born in Maharashtra, India and was raised in Mumbai. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an engineer, but also of walking a fashion runway. Her aspirations included working for one of the most successful companies in the USA. In 2003, Payal married her husband Pavan in Hyderabad, India.

Determined to reach her childhood dreams, Payal studied Engineering in Electronics and Telecommunication at Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women’s University, SNDT, in Mumbai, India. Payal and Pavan moved to Texas in 2004 where she was awarded her Master’s Degree. “By profession, I am an IT Project Manager,” states Payal.

In a Times-Bulletin article, Payal divulged that she was always fascinated by the glitz and glamour industry of Bollywood and dreamed to walk the ramp one day, but an unrealistic image of a tall, thin, and “perfect” model body kept her childhood dream at bay. During the Covid Pandemic, she turned towards social media as an outlet for showcasing her styles and began to represent fashion as allencompassing and inclusive, while breaking the stereotype definition of models.

Within the Indian community, Payal is held in high esteem. Sonal Tuljapurkar, Cypress entrepreneur (featured in PinPointe Cypress Creek Lakes February/March 2024), comments, “Payal is one of the most hardworking people I know. She has achieved great success through determination and passion towards her word. At the same time, she hasn’t forgotten her roots, is kind-hearted, and is absolutely selfless while helping others.”

6 August | September 2024

Cannes 2024

Pavan and Payal

Payal’s social media reflects a staggering list of career and life engagements. We asked what she considers her motivation as an international influencer, world beauty pageant winner, engineer, model and fashion blogger.

“As an International Influencer and model, I am driven by a desire to inspire and make a positive impact on others through my journey and success I achieved after winning the title of Mrs. Asia World Elitec 2021 by helping many small to mid-size (businesses), not only womenoriented, but also other local businesses. I use my platforms to promote causes, help nonprofit charity organizations raise funds, support events through innovative marketing ideas and help build a successful environment around.”

In Feb 2023, Payal walked in New York Fashion Week for three

Sonal Tuljapurkar and Payal

Payal and Pavan

renowned designers including Anjali Phougat Coutures at Designer Dream Collection, where she walked as a Brand Ambassador supporting sustainable fashion.

Mandewalkar collaborated with a DDC campaign for beauty in diversity project for Elle magazine, and was a Times 40 under 40 award winner.

2024 Cannes Film Festival

example and inspiring others to do their best and being able to live and strive for greatness while being vulnerable and ambivalent,” shares Mandewalkar.

If these accomplishments aren’t enough, Payal enjoys adding her determination and passion to the game of cricket.

As an Instagram Influencer/fashion blogger, Payal won the title of International Instagram Influencer of the Year in 2021-2022 and The Inspiring Woman Award. She is a Brand ambassador for many well-known brands like Express, Tanishq Usa, Diamonds Direct, Pixi beauty, Uoozee, C bazaar. Shein, and kota silk. Her accomplishments include acting in several short films where she won the award for Best Make Up and Costume at the Texas Kannada Short Film Festival.

Launched in July 2024, Payal is the CEO and founder of InVogue Talent Agency. She continues to inspire women as a mentor and pageant coach.

“Women empowerment is challenging the status quo of the community, loving and respecting yourself as a whole and having the liberty to do what she desires. It’s about leading by PinPointe Magazine

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Payal and her husband Pavan have two children. Parnika, 19, is a thirdyear engineering student at Rice University. Prayom, 9, is a 4th grade elementary school student. Culture plays an integral role in the lives of the Mandewalkar family. “Indian culture is vibrant and multifaceted, impacting daily life through its traditional food, daily prayers, the type of clothes, the different festivals we celebrate and we try to emphasize on concepts like respect for elders, hospitality, humility, and nonviolence which are deeply ingrained in Indian culture and influence daily interactions and decision-making,” explains Payal. instagram.com/payalsfashionpalette

8 August | September 2024

If you know of an exceptional Greater Fairfield, Bridgeland/Blackhorse Ranch, Towne Lake, Coles Crossing, or Cypress Creek Lakes individual or family that needs to be featured in an upcoming issue of PinPointe Magazine, please email: texasteacher024@outlook.com.

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10 August | September 2024

Canine Corner B

order Collie Rescue and Rehab attended the Houston Dog Show for the first time at NRG this year. Border Collie Rescue and Rehab has saved over 1100 dogs and that number continues to grow. “When you adopt a rescue dog from us, you are actually rescuing two dogs…the one you are adopting AND the one that you just made room for!” They are a 100% volunteer Texas based 501(c)(3) registered rescue organization.

Most recently pulled from the euthanasia list in Dallas is Dolly Madison, Kristin Carroll’s newest foster dog.

All dogs in the program spend a minimum of 30 days at their foster’s home to be evaluated

Cypress

HAPPENINGS

Bridgeland Cheer Clinic Saturday, August 10, 2024 Clinic: 8am-1pm / Performance (Open to Spectators) Noon-1pm Bridgeland HS Performance Gym • 10707 Mason • Cypress, TX 77433 K-8th Grade. $50 General Ticket: Includes Clinic, T-Shirt & Snack $70 VIP Ticket (Limited Special): Includes Clinic, T-Shirt, Snack and performance at BHS JV Game on 8/29 6:30 @ BHS. bit.ly/BHSClinic24

Ranch Roundup Friday, August 16, 2024 • 6:30-8:30pm Cypress Ranch High School Athletic Parking Lot 10700 Fry Rd. • Cypress, TX 77433 Free event for the entire Mustang community! Games, Food Trucks, Giveaways! Meet the Mustangs!

before they can be adopted. This gives the foster time to get to know the dogs so they can figure out what type of home the dog needs, to work on basic training, potty training, proper vetting, and be spayed/neutered if over 6 months old.

The rescue currently has multiple dogs that are undergoing medical treatment for heartworm treatment and injured dogs that owners released due to the cost of treatment.

Border Collies are a working dog breed that can be extremely active, and they need homes that can handle and understand their energy and their intelligence.

They make a wonderful family dog for families that are active.

Dolly

Border Collie Rescue and Rehab currently has 14 dogs available for adoption and about 25 more that will be available soon. All dogs are located throughout Texas and Oklahoma and all applicants must be approved first before requesting a meet and greet with a dog in the program. If interested in adopting a Border Collie, you can find their application at bcrrt.com.

Shop 'til You Drop 2024 Marketplace Saturday, September 24, 2024 • 9am-5pm 8877 Barker Cypress Rd. • Cypress, TX 77433 Cy-Fair Women's Club Annual Fundraiser. There are over 250 vendors.

All proceeds go back to the community through scholarships to graduating seniors in the CFISD area and financial assistance to nonprofits in the community. cyfairwomensclub.org

St. Cuthbert School 40th Anniversary Celebration Saturday, September 24, 2024 • 10am-1pm 17020 West Rd. • Houston, TX 77095 Bring the kids! Train rides, music, games, silent auction, craft area and food trucks. Admission is free! www.stcuthbert.org

Bridgeland Community Fun Run/Walk for Heroes Saturday, October 12, 2024 • 8am / Kid's 1K @ 9am Bridgeland’s Festival Park • 16902 Bridgeland Landing • Cypress, TX Details and Registration: blrunforheroes2024.eventbrite.com

TRAVELING SENIOR OF CYPRESS TRIPS & ACTIVITIES Cy-Fair Houston Chamber Ten Pin Challenge Friday, August 23, 2024 • 12:30-4pm Copperfield Bowl • 15615 Glen Chase Dr. • Houston, TX Join us for Team Building and Networking. Register today for just $425 per team of 4 and secure your spot.

Reister at: public.cyfairchamber.com/events/register/36802

Pancakes for Positivity Saturday, August 24, 2024 • 8:30am-10am Creekwood Grill • 12710 Telge Rd. • Cypress, TX Join us for a pancake breakfast and lively discussion on mental health.

Panel beings at 9am. Families welcome. shieldbearer.org

Myrtle Beach Show Trip, September 14-22, 2024 • $137.00 a day. A minimum deposit is needed to hold your spot. We'll need the full payment by July 7, 2024.

April 24-May 3, 2025: Shades of Ireland, 10 Days: 13 Meals: 8 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners with Optional 3-Nigh Lond Pre Tour Extension or Optional 3-Nigh Edinburg Post Tour Extension. Round Trip Air from Houston Intl, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges, Hotel Transfers. Double Occupancy: $3,999.

All trips leave from Fairfield Baptist Church. Please park facing the ditch and apartments. All trips must be paid for within five days of registering, or you will be removed from the list. For info, contact Jo Ann at pstlgrl@gmail.com or Jackie at jackie.devine@comcast.net.

For more local events visit: www.bestofcyfair.com.

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SUMMER HEAT=SWIMSUIT SEASON

By Allison Okuneye

Newsflash! Your CURRENT body, is your SUMMER body...and we are NOT going to avoid pools or water activities this year and let our insecurities win!

It is WAY too hot here to hide out all summer!

Let’s just state the obvious. I know so many women of all shapes, sizes and colors and one thing they all have in common is not feeling 100% comfortable In a swimsuit. Some women I know have avoided outdoor water activities almost their whole lives because it is just too uncomfortable. This feeling of Insecurity is NOT

only a struggle for women!

There are A LOT of men that hide under tshirts, tank tops, etc. because of the same feelings of not being comfortable with their bodies.

Can we all please join together in yelling our motto for this summer....

“I am not living life on the sidelines anymore! I am using my body this summer!”

We miss out on so much life worrying about what other people think, and this is the last summer that we do that. A good reminder when at the pool and feeling uncomfortable is taking a moment to acknowledge that MOST people at that pool are feeling the EXACT same way! So let's just enjoy this feeling of awkwardness, stop sweating in the shade and jump in!

I can still sense your hesitation, so here are some summer beach accessories that might get you a little more excited about taking a dive!

FOCUS ON THE ACCESSORIES: get some funky bright sunglasses, or a big floppy hat or cute wedge sandals! Don’t let the swimsuit be the only thing you are wearing!

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FIND A CUTE COVERUP: there are soo many kaftan and wrap skirt coverups that can cover those areas of insecurity while you aren’t in the water!

At the end of the day, when we choose to sit on the side and let our insecurities win, we miss out on valuable time and creating memories with those we love. Time is precious and we don’t want to miss out on the fun! I can’t wait to see all of you poolside this summer!

PinPointe Magazine

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Season’s Harvest Café

The Best of Cy-Fair P L A C E S T O E AT

The Farmer’s Table The Farmer’s Counter in the Heart of Cypress Story & Photos by Metta Archilla-Ishida

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he Season’s Harvest Café, also known as The Farmer’s Table, is now opening up a second location, The Farmer’s Counter, at 17110 House and Hahl.

Owners, Joanne Griffith, Executive Chef, and her husband Beket Griffith, Front of the House Manager, grew up in the Bear Creek area and remained close to Cypress even after they got married. Both loved the Cypress community they grew up in and wanted to make an impact on it in a holistic way. Joanne, a stay-at-home mom of five since 1999, aided her husband in ministry, as Beket was a church pastor and biblical counselor in prison ministry. Their journey to the restaurant life is an interesting and God-lead one.

Joanne credits her great grandparents and grandparents for her success in homesteading, farming, and organic living. She remembers tagging along as her great grandfather picked produce on his ranch in San Diego, Texas, then sold the freshly harvested goods to the locals. Joanne has fond recollections of spending time at the ranch hunting rabbit with a bb gun, swimming in the windmill water tank, picking peaches, and learning how to preserve foods though canning. These fond memories paved the way to the future success of the Cafe.

The main factor that led this dynamic couple to holistic eating and healing was when Joanne endured a variety of health issues and at the time, there was not much available by way of natural remedies. This is when Joanne began her own personal health journey and her discovery of clean eating/living.

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By attending health seminars, visiting health food stores, and spending time at libraries, Joanne learned

how best to heal the body through good fats and superfoods and by engaging in trial and error and hands-on research in the kitchen. Joanne and Beket’s newfound perspective embodied the wholesomeness of nuts, legumes, dried herbs, local honey, and seeds.

Joanne says, “Because we were on a very tight budget, I learned to take the kids for drives out in the countryside and found farms that would let us pick our own fruits, where I could also buy vegetables and eggs. I was baking bread and making butter, almond milk, jams, and nut butters. It was fun learning the ins and outs of a healthier lifestyle coupled with homesteading.”

The heart of Season’s Harvest Café is personal, says Joanne; “In reality, the Café isn’t my own concept at all, but God’s. ‘Eat as close to the way the Lord made it, live as close to the way that He intended.’”

The original Farmer’s Table location at 17303 Shaw Rd, Cypress, TX 77429 is now offering gardening classes so that others can benefit from the healing of having their hands in the dirt, experiencing the morning sunshine, growing their own food, and building community. The Café offers a sanctuary where they serve whole, real food, a little bit of country to experience nature and farm life, and a farm store where clean local foods, products, and meats can be purchased.

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The journey from the Beket Griffith original Café to a second location was cultivated from more of an educational experience and wanting to reach more of the community with classes, events, and resources. Joanne says, “We needed a prep kitchen to help in the expansion of these efforts so instead of adding a building onto our farm, we chose to build out a new kitchen at a close location.”

The Griffiths continue building the new location, to reach a large customer base that comes from the Cypress area of Blackhorse Ranch and Bridgeland. The Farmer’s Counter will offer an expedited counter service with a full espresso

16 August | September 2024

and juice bar, hot teas, smoothies, and chef-curated family style dinner meals that can be pre-ordered for pick up. This location will also include a bakery; all baked goods will be offered fresh out of the oven, including their own homemade breads.

Season’s Harvest Café / The Farmer’s Table 17303 Shaw Rd. • Cypress, TX 77429 Phone: 832-534-8686 seasonsharvest.farm Days/Hours of Operation: Sunday & Monday: Closed Tuesday – Thursday: 8am – 3pm Friday: 8am – 3pm, 5pm – 9pm Saturday 8am – 3pm

Metta Archilla-Ishida is a Contributing Writer, Founder of Metta’s Local Eats FB Group, #onmettasfork

ASK THE DOC:

Lifestyle Adjustments to Manage Dysphagia Dysphagia affects between 300,000 and 700,000 people in the United States. The condition, characterized by difficulty swallowing, significantly impacts daily life. It can also lead to serious complications like malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia.

Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG Gastro Doxs

By adopting certain lifestyle habits, like mindful eating and reduction in meal size, you or your loved one with dysphagia can manage the condition more effectively.

Here are some lifestyle recommendations provided by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, our gastroenterologist here at GastroDoxs, to help you live more normally and comfortably with dysphagia.

Eat more mindfully People with dysphagia benefit from eating slowly, which involves taking small, manageable bites and thoroughly chewing any food before swallowing. Rushing through meals can make swallowing difficulties worse and increase the risk of choking or aspiration.

Choose soft, moist foods Choosing softer, moist foods can make swallowing easier when you have dysphagia.

Incorporate cooked vegetables, ripe fruits, yogurt, and pudding into your daily diet.

These foods are gentler on the throat and require less effort to swallow compared to dry or tough textures.

Modify food textures Simply changing a food's texture can go a long way in improving the ease of swallowing it. For those with dysphagia, pureeing or mashing foods can make them safer and more manageable to swallow. Experiment with different textures to find what works best for you or your loved one. Also consider a food’s thickness and consistency.

Stay hydrated Adequate hydration promotes good overall health, and it optimizes swallow function.

If you have dysphagia, consistently sip water regularly throughout the day, as dehydration can worsen swallowing difficulties.

Also be mindful of the consistency of any fluids you consume, as thin liquids can be harder for people with dysphagia to handle. Thicker liquids like nectar-thickened juices may be easier to swallow safely. Dr. Pothuri can recommend special thickeners to stir into liquids to make them the right consistency.

Pay attention to your posture Your posture can significantly influence your swallowing function. Sit upright while eating and drinking, as this helps the smooth passage of food and liquids through the throat. Avoiding reclined positions during meals can minimize the risk of aspiration and improve overall swallow coordination.

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Have small, frequent meals Rather than eating large meals, opt for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This approach can help prevent fatigue in your swallowing function. Smaller portions are also easier to manage and less taxing on the throat.

Professional support for those struggling with dysphagia is also important. At GastroDoxs, we offer personalized strategies, exercises, and dietary recommendations for each patient’s specific needs and swallowing abilities.

Please reach out to our team at GastroDoxs to schedule an appointment at 832.632.4070 or online at gastrodox.com. e welcome patients with dysphagia and want to help them live fuller, healthier lives.

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4th @ Fairfield Photos by Apollo Productions, Daniel Arizpe

18 August | September 2024

Around

CY P R E S S

LOCAL MUSIC CALENDAR ANDY’S BAR & GRILL 8/3 FATHER FIGURES 8/10 OTHER GUYS 8/17 IAN MUSIC 8/24 GRUPO BATCHTA LATIN NIGHT THE BARN 8/3 THE SPICOLI'S 6PM 9/20 CASEY CHESTNUT 6PM BFE ROCK CLUB 7/12 DESTROYING TEXAS FEST DAY 1 7PM 7/13 DESTROYING TEXAS FEST DAY 2 7PM 7/19 BAR RATS BIRTHDAY SHOW 7PM 7/20 WATCHTOWER 8PM 7/21 FIGURE BELOW, WHITEHAVEN, STATIC SLUMS, SHROONS, HAPPIER THAN US 2PM 7/23 FATALIST, LAST NIGHT OF SOLACE, VILAMOURA, APEX FALLEN, SUFFERING IN SILENCE 7PM 7/27 DOWNFALL 2012, DEAD SET RED, & MORE 7:30PM 8/3 RETURN OF MIDNIGHT CIRCUS 7PM 8/9 DRIFTERS & GRIFTERS 7PM 8/10 LUCID ILLUSIONS 7PM 8/18 YOSEMITE IN BLACK 7PM 8/23 TEXAS SWEET 7PM 8/24 VICTIM 7PM 8/30 EDM PROM 7PM 8/31 BENEFIT FOR JOE CAIN 7PM 7PM 9/7 VIA LINDA 7PM 9/13 DEMI THE DAREDEVIL 7PM 9/14 SATURATE 7PM BREW:30 TAPHOUSE 8/3 JULIA 6:30PM 8/9 JOHN STEELE 6:30PM 8/10 MARK CHILDRES 6:30PM 8/16 EVITTS & TERRANOVA 6:30PM 8/23 MATT SEBASTIAN 6:30PM 8/24 RIGHTEOUS CAUSE TRIO 6:30PM 8/30 MARCUS BREIDENTHAL 6:30PM 8/31 STREETER BROTHERS MUSIC & MAGIC 6:30PM 9/7 JOHN STEELE 6:30PM 9/13 EVITTS & TERRANOVA ACOUSTIC DUET 6:30PM 9/14 LOADED DAN 6:30PM 9/20 MIKE AMABILE 6:30PM 9/21 DANVILLE TRAIN 6:30PM 9/27 MARCUS BREIDENTHAL 6:30PM CREEKWOOD GRILL 8/2 FATHER FIGURES 6:30PM 8/3 KENDALL WALKER 6:30PM 8/9 RANDY HULSEY & CHRISTIAN HUGHES 6:30PM 8/10 RIGHTEOUS CAUSE 6:30PM 8/16 JEFF CANADA 6:30PM 9/6 MARK WARD 6:30PM HIDDEN CELLAR WINE BAR 8/1 RICK MARCEL 7PM 8/2 MIKE AMABILE 7PM

HIDDEN CELLAR WINE BAR (continued) 8/8 STACEY STEELE 7PM 8/9 MIKE CASEY 7PM 8/10 PETE SCAFIDI 7PM 8/15 JAMES ROOSA 7PM 8/16 RICK MARCEL 7PM 8/17 SCOTT BYERS 7PM 8/23 NIK RINCON 7PM 8/24 JAMES ROOSA 7PM 8/29 JUBA NORMAND 7PM 8/31 BRYAN SCOTT 7PM MAIN STREET CROSSING 8/2 JIMMY BUFFET TRIBUTE | LOST SHAKER OF SALT 8/3 SELENA FOREVER TRIBUTE 8/7 & 8/8 THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS 8/9 REO TRIBUTE | HIGH FIDELITY 8/10 SIMON & GARFUNKEL TRIBUTE 8/11 STATLER BROTHERS SALUTE 8/13 RICK TREVINO 8/14 GLEN TEMPLETON 8/15 SHAKE RUSSELL 8/16 BOB WILLS’ TEXAS PLAYBOYS 8/17 QUEEN TRIBUTE | QUEEN LEGACY 8/18 PETER, PAUL & MARY TRIBUTE 8/21 THE FRONTMEN 8/22 MIKE DAWES 8/23 & 8/24 HERMAN’S HERMITS 8/27 SINATRA & DEAN MARTIN TRIBUTE | VINCE KING 8/28 PROPHETS AND OUTLAWS 8/29 YACHT ROCK TRIBUTE | THE WINDBREAKERS 8/30, 8/31, & 9/1 JOHN SEBASTIAN & JIMMY VIVINO 9/3 & 9/4 BILLY BOB THORNTON & THE BOXMASTERS 9/6 GEORGE STRAIT TRIBUTE | DEREK SPENCE 9/8 CARPENTERS TRIBUTE 9/9-9/11 JOHN CONLEE 9/12 NOAH GUNDERSEN 9/13 PAM TILLIS 9/14 BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE | GOOD VIBRATIONS 9/18 ELVIS TRIBUTE | VINCE KING 9/19 EVERLY BROTHERS 9/21 & 9/22 GARY PUCKETT AND THE UNION GAP 9/24 BARBRA STREISAND TRIBUTE | SHARON OWENS 9/25 DYLAN WHEELER 9/26 JIM MESSINA 9/27 PHIL COLLINS TRIBUTE | PURE COLLINS 9/28 SONS OF THE PIONEERS 9/29 THE MALPASS BROTHERS 10/1 & 10/2 RODNEY CROWELL 2920 ROADHOUSE 8/3 MIKE RYAN 6PM 8/23 EASTON CORBIN 6PM 8/30 KATE WATSON 6PM 9/14 THE BELLAMY BROTHERS 6PM 9/21 BEATLES TRIBUTE | THE FAB 5 6PM 9/27 TRACY BYRD 6PM 10/5 JOURNEY TRIBUTE | ESCAPE 6PM

PinPointe Magazine

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Mary Anne Heckman

PINPOINTE RESIDENT PROFILE

Cathedral of Notre Dame de Bayeux in Normandy, France.

Cypress Photographer Travels to France for 80th Anniversary of D-Day

By Patricia Hudson, as Shared by Mary Anne Heckman All photos copyright MAH Design LLC

L

ocal photographer and graphic designer, Mary Anne Heckman, traveled to France to see the Normandy American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach and the celebration of the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy. Traveling with her camera in hand, this photographer had anticipated visiting Normandy for years. Mary Anne and her companions joined a Trafalgar Tour, Treasures of Paris, which included Normandy on the itinerary. A “Bucket List” item, their vacation began with a stay in Paris and dinner from inside the Eiffel Tower. An after-dinner stroll included some incredible views of the grounds where the 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremonies will be held beginning July 26, 2024.

graves of Joe Thibodeau, Malcom Carlson, Ralph Cunningham, and Theodore Postenbaum. I had always Mary Anne animatedly described some of the most wanted to visit and photograph Omaha Beach; being able to memorable events of her trip. “The main highlight of the be there to witness it with the four veterans was very moving. trip were the stops in Arromanches and Omaha Beach.

As I thanked Frank Simon for his service, he quipped, ‘I love Arromanches is where the Invasion of Normandy happened all these pretty girls here!’ He was celebrating his 100th immediately after D-Day. The Allies birthday that day. This was a very moving established an artificial temporary harbour experience that I will never forget.” to allow the unloading of heavy equipment without waiting for the conquest of deepAs a college art major, Mary Anne water ports such as Le Havre or studied the works of Leonardo da Vinci.

Cherbourg. The town was filled with “Visiting the Manor House of Leonardo tourists and also reenactors of World War da Vinci was an artist’s and a II. The French were so appreciative of photographer’s paradise! The gardens everything the Americans did on D-Day were magnificent with beautiful flowers and remain so to this day. Next, it was on and a peacock as the manor pet. Seeing to Omaha Beach where the preparations da Vinci’s house and works of art meant were in place for the D-Day ceremonies for a lot to me,” reflected Heckman. the following three days. The beach area was closed due to a high level of security in With the visit to Normandy, another set place. While at the American Cemetery, I of bucket list items have been checked off got to photograph four WWII veterans of Mary Anne’s travel and photography visiting from the Boston area and were agenda. With camera in hand, this being honored in commemoration of Dadventurous woman has plans for a trip Mary Anne Heckman Day: Frank Simon, Bill Soule, Christy Fier to the Oregon Coast, and then on to Photographer and Graphic Designer mahdesigninc.com and Marvin Gilmore. They visited the Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons!

20 August | September 2024

(from top) Leonardo da Vinci's Manor House in Ambroise, France, Dinner with friends from the Eiffel Tower, Peacock at the Manor House

Eiffel Tower with the Olympic rings, Strolling after dinner.

(top) Normandy American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach (bottomReenactors in Arromanches

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CYPRESS SCHOOL NEWS Source: CFISD News Media

Ault Elementary Student Becomes Published Author Ault Elementary second grade student Cash Allen recently became a published author after writing his first book titled “Saying Goodbye To A Pet.” The book, which was written entirely by Cash, is based on the true story of losing his family pet, Scout. “Losing Scout was Cash’s first experience with any significant loss,” said Terry Allen, Cash’s father and the book’s illustrator.

“Cash had a lot of questions and him writing this book helped him to process things.”

Cash wanted to write the book to help other kids understand that it’s normal to be sad when losing a pet, but it’s also normal to be happy when remembering good memories. Writing this book still makes me miss Scout, but I wrote it because I thought it would help other people,” Cash said. “That makes me happy.”

Cash is no stranger to writing, as he’s written many stories before.

However, this was his first opportunity to have one of his stories published.

Proceeds from book sales will be donated to animals in need.

Warner Elementary, Smith Middle School Destination Imagination Teams Place at Global Finals Two teams from Warner Elementary School and Smith Middle School earned top three finishes at the Destination Imagination Global Finals, held May 2225 in Kansas City, Missouri. Team The All-Stars from Smith placed second in Engineering – Going the Distance, while Team Stellar Squad from Warner placed third in Scientific – Blast from the Past.

CFISD Softball and Soccer Athletes Earn 2024 Academic All-District Honors More than 130 softball players and 300 CFISD soccer athletes were named to the Academic All-District 16-6A and District 17-6A soccer teams.

Athletes who earned academic all-district honors finished the season in good academic standing and earned a composite weighted GPA of 5.5 or higher for all classes for the two identified six weeks that make up the majority of their regular season.

The following are among those named to academic all-district teams: SOFTBALL BRIDGELAND Chayne Allen Abby Bvunzawabaya Vianey Cabrera Addy Gibbons Brooke Gonzales Ariel Gonzalez Sydney Jackson Aubrey Lancaster Camille LeBoeuf Dani Lopez Avery Marquart Rylie Marquart Carley Melton Lucy Sharon Chesley Swisher Madysen Taylor CY-RANCH Darian Bridges Brooke Crowl Mia Diaz Sophia Diaz

Ashtyn Domec Layla Gallardo Anaya Garza Daniella Garza Haylie Green Maria Macijauskas Ashlynn Massey Ryleigh Senegal Rylie Skibbe Naomi Walker Ainsley Wester CY-WOODS Morgan Becher Samantha DeLos Santos Avri Dennis Iliana Flores Ashley Garcia Tristian Hopkins Alexandria Malusa Abigail Siman Hannah Spencer Kassidy St. Clair Jordyn Traylor

Ainsley Vacek Alexia Vazquez Eastyn Wilkie Peyton Wilkie Sophia Wilson SOCCER BRIDGELAND Flori Allison Taylor Barton Jadyn Beauregard Madeline Benker Elise Bienvenu Hayley Broeder Kayla Gaskill Riley Hammond Taylor Hammond Emily Hughes Ava King Elise Koenig Catalina Le Grace Lee Brooke Martin Elle Mexia

Reese Milefchik Kate Ornelas Sydney Robinett Ciera Rochette Emmalene Seiffert Makenzie Simmons CY-RANCH Olivia Aguilar Lauren Buerger Miriam Bustami Hannah Carrier Alexis Crawford Malaika Dadabhoy Kamrynn Davis Edie Dispensa Allie Keene Kennedi McPhee Helena Orso Lauren Russell Lexie Ryan Sophia Sandoval

CFISD Baseball & Softball Players Named to 2024 All-District 16-6A Teams District 16-6A released the 2023-2024 All-District 16-6A Baseball and Softball Teams following the conclusion of each team’s season.

“I am so proud of all the work our Destination Imagination students have done this year with the support of their parents, school sponsors and the district,” said Michele Krimsky, CFISD Destination Imagination coach. “This was the biggest the Destination Imagination program has been since before the COVID-19 pandemic and the students’ performances were outstanding.

It is an honor to facilitate these amazing students.”

In Baseball, Cypress Woods earned two superlatives as senior McClane Helton was unanimously named the district’s Most Valuable Player and sophomore Ross Sullivan was voted Newcomer of the Year. Cypress Ranch High School senior Austin Shirley was named Pitcher of the Year.

Destination Imagination promotes team-building for students in kindergarten through 12th grade who form teams to solve a challenge that incorporates imagination, creativity, collaboration and fun. Teams create a skit with props and scenery that involve one of the following categories: Fine Arts, STEM, Project Outreach and Improvisation. This year’s competition featured hundreds of teams from around the world.

In Softball, Bridgeland senior Sydney Jackson was voted Most Valuable Player, while fellow Bridgeland seniors Chayne Allen and Madysen Taylor were voted Offensive and Defensive Most Valuable Players, respectively. Cypress Ranch freshman Naomi Walker was named Newcomer of the Year and Cypress Woods senior Samantha De Los Santos was voted Pitcher of the Year. Bridgeland Head Coach Candi Weige was named Coach of the Year.

Eight total teams comprised of CFISD students participated in Global Finals. The following teams also competed at Global Finals: • Team Imagine Moore from Moore Elementary School; • Team Rockstars from Rennell Elementary School; • Team Fire Breathing Hamsters from Swenke Elementary School; • Team Ideas R Us from Warner; • Team The Athenas from Sprague Middle School; and • Team Mystic Minds from Bridgeland High School

BASEBALL BRIDGELAND Carson Phillips Weston Riddle Hudson Pollard Miles Syptak Caleb Simons Benji Barrera

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The following CFISD student were among those named to First Teams: Jake Webb CY-RANCH Marshall Forsyth Brandon Lang CY-WOODS JT Darden Cameron Neuman SOFTBALL

BRIDGELAND Rylie Marquart Brooke Gonzales Dani Lopez Addy Gibbons Chesley Swisher CY-RANCH Mia Diaz

Ryleigh Senegal Darian Bridges CY-WOODS Tristan Hopkins Abigail Sliman Avri Dennis Peyton Wilkie

Dive In!

by Liz Arrington

Summertime Reading Fun “Bookish Friends: what’s on your summer reading list? Looking for ideas” recently posted this question to my Facebook page, just to see what my friends are reading this summer and for research purposes for this article. The comments came pouring in from friends near and far: short lists of books just completed, authors that they absolutely obsess over, books that they couldn’t put down, books that kept them guessing, books that made them laugh out loud.

Using beautiful descriptors like: “spellbinding, spicy, fascinating, hilarious, and thrilling.”

I

It is so much fun talking to readers about books. The way a person lights up when describing a book they just finished, what they love about it, what they didn’t love about it- it’s incredible what those conversations teach me about a person. I love seeing updates and posts from friends that I barely know in real life, but share similar reading interests. So, imagine my surprise when I uncovered the startling reality of the reading habits of most adults.

Statistically, adults read far less now than in the past.

While the numbers vary, it appears that only about half of Americans report reading one or more books for pleasure per year. However, there is an interesting contrast between the numbers of adults who read for pleasure versus the number of adults who report that they wish they could read more. It seems that most adults would like to read more, we just don’t have the time, energy, or attention span to commit to a book.

Summer is in full swing, and for many in our local community that means extra vacation days spent traveling to fun destinations, lounging by the pool, or catching up on a little much needed self care. When it’s time for long sunny summer days and a break from our usual routine, there’s nothing better than picking the perfect book to match the vibes!

Not sure where to begin? Ask your friends! One simple post on Facebook added over 10 books to my personal TBR (to be read) list! Here are some of the top suggestions from my friends, in no particular order and with very little detail: The Women by Kristin Hannah (definitely in line to be the most popular book of the year) The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah The Things We Keep

by Sally Hepworth The Little Liar by Mitch Albom Fourth Wing (the Empyrean Series) by Rebecca Yarros The Echo of Old Books

by Barbara Davis Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt Here are a few of 2023 most popular authors to check out: Mary Kay Andrews, Elin Hilderbrand, Emily Henry, Frieda McFadden, Brandon Sanderson, Sarah J. Mass, David Grann, William Kent Krueger, Taylor Jenkins Reidjust to name a few!

Reading is a habit, something that requires just a little extra time and intention to include in your life. The beautiful thing is we have more access to information and resources than we ever have before. Whether you prefer an old school paperback, digital reading device, audiobooks (or a mix of them all) - there is no right way to consume stories. With a little research and exploration, you are bound to find books and authors that get you excited about reading again! It all starts this summer: one page, one chapter, one book at a time! Happy Reading!

Liz Arrington combines her background as a professional children’s therapist with her love of music to provide early childhood music and movement classes to families of Cypress. Outdoor, Weekday, and Saturday classes available.

See more at songfulbeginnings.com PinPointe Magazine

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