LIFE + CULTURE
CREATE YOUR OWN KITCHEN GARDEN
MAKING A DIFFERENCE ONE POD AT A TIME
HOME SERVICES
LSC CY-FAIR NEW INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
HOUSTON'S WINDOW AUTHORITY
HOUSTON METHODIST CYPRESS HOSPITAL —
Houston Methodist Cypress Hospital is proud to bring outstanding care, expertise and innovation to Cypress and the surrounding communities. With expertise from primary to specialty care, our physicians collaborate across specialties to support health, wellness and prevention and to treat more complex conditions — right here for you in one convenient location.
Houston Methodist Cypress offers:
• A full spectrum of health care services including primary, specialty and emergency care
• World-class physicians and nurses who work together to provide expert, personalized care
• Advanced technology and leading-edge innovations to enhance the patient experience
• Thoughtful patient amenities including private rooms and free parking and valet
houstonmethodist.org/cypress 713.790.3333
Hooray!
Tuitionbased Pre-k 2025-2026 FOR REGISTRATION INFORMATION VISIT CFISDPreK.net
MARCH 8TH-APRIL 17TH, 2025
Join us for blue skies and spring vibes at Dewberry Farm’s Spring Fest! Enjoy FREE daily easter egg hunts, meet the Easter Bunny, and have fun on over 40 exciting rides and attractions!
SCAN AND SAVE $7 PER TICKET WITH CODE: BUNNY7 OR VISIT
Letter from the Editor
Every April, here at Cypress Lifestyle, for our annual Investment issue, we spend time thinking about different types of investments--we always end up talking about how investments aren’t just monetary. Where we invest our time, how we cultivate relationships, prioritizing healthy hobbies, personal growth and interests also requires an investment.
It’s a time for reflection, and this year is no exception!
Take a peak at our plans for a Kitchen Garden–join us in planting luscious yet yummy kitchen gardens this spring! Keep it simple to start, but the options are endless! Spending time in the garden; planting, cultivating, watering and watching as things grow–it almost feels a little bit like getting a glimpse of the restoration of the Garden of Eden—almost!
We also sat down with the CEO of Green City Recycler and learned about how the majority of things we want to recycle (but thought we couldn’t) can in fact be recycled and repurposed! It was just a little different than we knew, but we were delighted to find out it’s actually simpler and easier! Check it out!
Don’t miss Bridging the Gap where we share about the newly launched, tailored and innovative internship program with Lone Star College - CyFair. Where education and industry come together for our collective future.
Cypress is a unique community with so much to offer. Thank you for being a part!
I hope you find joy in the every day!
LAURA SANCHEZQUAN, MANAGING EDITOR
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Peggy Garner | peggy.garner@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Laura SanchezQuan
laura.sanchezquan@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alson@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Sunny Rajabi | hello@sunburstphotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kaylee Dusang, Laura SanchezQuan, Stephanie Parnell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Daniel Arizpe, Sunny Rajabi, Daniel Herrera, Erica Hernandez
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell Learn
3:5-6
city scene
The 31st Annual CFISD Livestock Show Association Show and Sale, was held Jan. 30-Feb. 1. 1: Cy-Ranch sophomore MacKenzie Walcik had the Grand Champion Steer. 2: Cy-Woods junior, junior Brady Wunderlich, and senior Addison Breland won in Grand Champion Ag Mechanics for their playhouse 3: Langham sophomore Connor Fitzpatrick had the Grand Champion Rabbit. 4: Cy-Ranch School junior Luke O’Rear had the Grand Champion Broilers. 5: Cy-Ranch senior Hailey Poulson had the Grand Champion Swine. 6: Bridgeland senior Zayna Hasan had the Grand Champion Lamb. 7: Cy-Ranch sophomore MacKenzie Walcik had the Grand Champion Goat.
8: Cy-Woods senior Addison Breland had the Grand Champion Horticulture project. 9: Bridgeland senior Karson Krause had the Grand Champion Turkey. 10: Denise Kubecka, former director of career and technical education, was honored prior to the premium sale with a dedication banner and buckle for her service to CFISD and the Livestock Show and Sale.
Award-Winning Mexican Food
Made Fresh Every Day
Two Great Locations - Book Our Party Room
Brunch Saturday - Sunday 9AM - 1PM
Lunch Specials Monday - Friday 11AM - 3PM
Happy Hour Monday - Friday 3PM - 7PM
KEEPING CHILDREN ON THE SPECTRUM SAFE DURING EMERGENCIES
For families of autistic children, preparation is key to ensuring their safety. During Autism Acceptance Month, here are essential tips to help families stay prepared and first responders provide the best possible care.
Keep critical information of your loved one handy. Have a current photo, medical details, and emergency contacts easily accessible.
Secure your home. If your child has eloping tendencies, reinforce doors and windows, use security cameras, and consider GPS tracking devices.
Prepare for first responder interactions. Introduce your child to firefighters and EMS personnel at community events so they recognize them as safe individuals.
Use medical alert ID. A wearable ID bracelet or card can provide first responders with essential communication and safety information.
Have a “calm down” kit ready. Sensory-friendly items, noise-reducing headphones, and familiar comfort objects can help reduce anxiety in high-stress situations.
Being proactive can make all the difference.
Scan here for more safety advice and resources.
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Houston Zoo’s Baby Elephant Kirby Becomes Internet Sensation
The Houston Zoo’s adorable two month-old baby Asian elephant, Kirby, is officially an internet sensation. Since her debut last month, Kirby’s cute antics and playful personality have captured the hearts of millions around the world. She’s quickly become one of the most talked-about animals on the internet and her fans have been dubbed the “Kirby Krew.” From her first wobbly steps, Kirby’s charm has not only enchanted local fans but has gone viral on social media platforms.
Photography by Photography by Houston Zoo
P. Terry’s Coming to Village Green in Bridgeland Central
P. Terry’s offers hormone- and antibiotic-free black angus beef burgers, hand-made chicken patties, fries, Idaho Burbank potatoes and milkshakes. The Village Green at Bridgeland Central P. Terry’s will feature an indoor dining room and a double drive-thru with construction plans beginning early 2025. pterrys.com
Livewell Animal Hospital of Cypress Offers Full Service Veterinarian Care
Dr. Brenden Kennedy and his staff opened Livewell Animal Hospital of Cypress in November 2024 at 9405 Barker Cypress Rd, Cypress near Goforth Dog Park. They offer full service veterinary care including wellness checks and urgent care in a state of the art facility with a warm and welcoming environment. Walk-ins are welcome and same day treatment is available. livewellanimal.com
MELISSA BAKER
REALTORS® | 281.687.8077
Melissa.K.Baker@exprealty.com
As a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and Relocation Specialist, I am dedicated to securing maximum listing value for sellers and finding buyers their dream home. As a longtime resident of Cypress, I have the local experience and background to help you with all your real estate needs.
Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings Now Serving Cypress
Located at 20725 Tuckerton Road, Ste. 900, Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings has menu items including cheesesteaks, sandwiches, wings, fries, shakes and more. Catering and delivery are available. charleys.com
Professional Nail Care at T&T Nail Spa
Located at 11688 Barker Cypress R, T&T Nail Spa offers excellent service, with an attention to detail. At T&T Nail Spa they pride themselves for keeping up with the latest trends in nail and beauty care services, including manicures, pedicures, nail enhancement, and more. ttnailspacypress.com
Memorial
Hermann-Go
Health Urgent Care Opens in Bridgeland
Memorial Hermann-GoHealth Urgent Care is bringing a new location to Village Green at Bridgeland Central located at 20115 Bridgeland Creek Parkway, Cypress. The urgent care will offer patients from six months of age a wide range of non-life threatening services including x-rays, sports physical Covid testing and flu vaccines. The center is open 365 days a year, from 8 AM to 8 PM Monday through Friday and from 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday and Sunday. gohealthuc.com/memorialhermann
PLANT YOUR KITCHEN GARDEN
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN
BACKYARD GARDENS OFFER
FRESH VEGGIES AND FOOD FOR YOUR SOUL
A quick guide for simple ideas to start off your backyard kitchen garden. With endless health and medicinal benefits, combined with the beauty and enjoyment to be found, gardening is endlessly rewarding.
Getting Started
• Plant your vegetable options right into your beds with flowers, the pollinators (bees, butterflies and more) are attracted to the beautiful flowers and your veggies will easily and abundantly go-to-fruit, living harmoniously in one bed.
• Every garden needs a rain gauge - you’ll be surprised at how fun it is to check. There is nothing like rain water for your garden. (This is optional, but definitely fun).
• Get your family involved. It’s never too late!
• Just go for it, our local climate can be weird and often extreme but don’t let it stop you- the most success and fun I’ve had was just going for it. Experiment and see what you love and what works best for you!
• In most cases, when watering, don’t water the petals and leaves, (especially when they’re in direct sunlight) try to water straight to the soil. All they need is water, nutrients and light to thrive! (and maybe a little love helps too!)
• Don’t forget herbs: Lavender, Mint, Lemon Verbena, Oregano, Basil, Cilantro, Parsley and more. Don’t be afraid to skip the spice rack and grab your seasoning from the garden.
What to Plant
Whether starting from seed or seedlings, you can’t go wrong with these options. Start with foods you know you like to eat.
They’re delicious, money-saving, good for eating fresh and for preserving. Tomatoes come in endless colors, shapes and sizes. Plant them in a sunny location with welldrained soil, ideally in full sun, and ensure they receive consistent moisture, supporting them with cages or stakes as they grow.
Like tomatoes, peppers have many purposes and variations. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil after the last frost, spacing them 18 inches apart, and provide consistent watering while ensuring the soil doesn't become waterlogged.
PEPPERS: OKRA:
TOMATOES: EGGPLANT:
Eggplant is a short season vegetable and a relative of peppers, potatoes, tomatoes and tobacco. It thrives in heat and full sun and can be deliciously made into baba ganoush and many other delicious dishes.
Okra loves our hot summers and full sun. Don’t wait too long to pick your okra, ideally harvesting them when they are 2 to 4 inches long. Can be eaten raw on a salad or best served deep fried. (The flower that turns into the okra itself is uniquely beautiful as well!)
Flowers Bring Pollinators
Flowers bring joy to all five of our senses, but they also bring pollinators to our garden in order to ensure your backyard kitchen will produce lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Not to mention they also contain health and even medicinal properties.
HIBISCUS:
Make sure your hibiscus plants, whether tropical or hardy, get at least 6 hours of sun per day in order to achieve optimum blooming. Hibiscus flowers can be made into a delicious tea that can be served hot or ice cold (and is a good source of Vitamin C). With over 200 varieties of hibiscus world wide, their blooms only last a day or two! Stunning in all shapes, sizes and colors.
MARIGOLDS:
To the surprise of most people, marigold flowers are edible. Whether used fresh, dried, or infused into various beverages, Marigolds have a multitude of uses in the kitchen. An added benefit of planting these bright and low maintenance flowers next to tomatoes– they help keep pests away from devouring your tomatoes while also encouraging pollinators.
ZINNIAS:
These bright, colorful garden gems have many benefits beyond their beauty and ease of care. Along with attracting pollinators, and being low maintenance they also have medicinal properties. Zinnias have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, they’re rich in antioxidants, and the natural compounds in zinnias can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness.
PLUMBAGO:
Plumbago is thought to have many health benefits, such as its anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties, resulting from its principal chemical components, which are concentrated in the roots, leaves, and stems of plants. This attractive light purple flowering plant thrives in the sun, and has moderate watering needs. Trim and prune to suit your own preferences of growth and it’s a welcome, abundantly beautiful member of any garden.
ARTICLE BY KAYLEE DUSANG PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL ARIZPE
Keeping Things Covered
WHAT HOMEOWNERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CURRENT INSURANCE INDUSTRY TRENDS
Texas is no stranger to natural disasters, and unfortunately, homes often receive the brunt of the damage from heavy rain, hail, and high winds.
Recent severe weather events have undoubtedly led to a rise in homeowner’s insurance claims for roof damage as well as an overall spike in rates. Despite the increase, various reports within the last year reveal that some insurance
businesses are no longer offering coverage in certain states across the U.S., leaving homeowners concerned about protection for their home.
Robert Oncken, principal and owner of Cypress-based Oncken Insurance Agency, explains the recent impact on insurance companies and how it might affect your home’s coverage.
“Despite all the rate hikes in recent years, many of the insurance companies have been struggling to post a profit,” Oncken said. “That is why we are seeing fewer insurance companies in the market. For the ones who are still here, all of them are being more selective on what houses they will insure. This is an issue that increases every time we lose an insurance company.”
As Texas and its communities grow, it will inevitably lead to more people wanting to buy and own homes, Oncken explains. When a state loses an insurance company, those customers will need to move to a remaining insurance company.
“So, the remaining insurance companies have to absorb a larger portion of the market, and they may not be able to do that profitably,” he said. “That means the remaining companies are going to be more selective about what they allow on their books.”
Due to the homeowner’s insurance market becoming “tighter” in general, Oncken said insurance companies might request additional information and/or requirements from clients, such as:
• Pre-binding roofing inspection/report – the insurance company may ask for a roofer report that attests to how much “life” is left in your roof.
• Higher deductibles on wind and hail coverage – the insurance company may increase your wind/hail deductible to 2% or 3%, or maybe even more.
• ACV/scheduled roof coverage – the insurance company may apply depreciation as well as a deductible for roof coverage (this means you’ll be paid less for any roofing claim).
• Tighter underwriting based on roof age – the insurance company may refuse to bind/start coverage on roofs over a certain age even if there is “life” left in the roof – this makes it more difficult to change insurance companies each year the roof ages.
“Things are changing. It’s almost certain that your homeowner policy’s roofing coverage has changed recently or is changing in the next year or so,” Oncken said. “Maintenance on your roof has always been important. Having a good relationship with a professional roofing company is as important as your plumber or dentist or accountant.”
Oncken recommends that homeowners pay close attention to their homeowner’s insurance policy and what it does and does not cover, especially at renewal:
• Has your wind/hail deductible changed?
• Is your roof replacement cost coverage (RCV), actual cash value (ACV), or scheduled roofing coverage?
• Is your current insurance company still writing new business in your community?
• Have you met with your insurance agent to review any changes to your coverage?
However, Oncken said changes in coverage are not necessarily a bad thing, and that they often mean an increased availability and lower premiums.
Finding solutions that work for both the customer and the insurance company is critical to the economy, he adds.
“Things have been changing and are certainly more expensive than it was a few years ago, but it’s not as bleak as it could be,” he said. “The fact that insurance companies are still engaged in finding a solution in our state/community is a good thing. There are states where it is more and more difficult to find insurance companies willing to do any business in the state.”
Oncken said he believes customers should start seeing some increased engagement in the market from insurance companies.
“I’ve already seen some increased signs of interest from several insurance companies – a good sign,” he said. “I’m hoping that a year from now I’ll be able to tell you that we have more insurance companies ‘active’ and writing in our community and not less. All of this could change direction depending on the weather this year.”
Lone Star College's Internship Program Meets Needs and Changes Futures
Bridging the Gap
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL HERRERA
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN
“Actual work-based experience is very eye-opening for students, often in a way nothing else can be. If it’s where they want to be – it increases drive and engagement, academically and professionally.”
— PATTY JAMES
The Lone Star College-CyFair Falcon Internship Program (FIP) offers a hassle-free partnership between local business owners and LSC-CyFair students. LSC-CyFair’s Internship Coordinator, Patty James, vets the student applicants and works with human resources and recruiting teams of local businesses to ensure the right candidates are matched.
Launched in 2024, FIP (which is housed at LSC-CyFair in the Center for Academic and Student Engagement building) works with business owners and student interns to bridge the talent gap.
This internship program, led by Patty since its launch, has since placed interns with Congressman Wesley Hunt and Texas Home Stagers, among others. In addition, four FIP interns are transitioning to permanent positions within their intended industries of Information Technology and Administrative Services at LSC-CyFair. Along with ongoing discussions with mid-sized IT companies, Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union, and Enerflex, Ltd., students are participating in professional career shadowing events at Houston Methodist Cypress Hospital and in finance with Tomball ISD.
FIP also has 14 students in paid internships with 70 students who are ready and waiting for an internship opportunity.
FOR BUSINESS OWNERS - THINGS TO CONSIDER
Interns are eager to experience the difference between academic theories and real-world applications. If a business owner is thinking “the job pool isn’t great these days” or “I wish new-hires knew x, y, z” this is a pivotal way LSC-CyFair FIP is tackling the issue. “Education and industry are working together to meet the needs of both, for a shared future,” says Patty.
The FIP team helps establish guidelines, accountability measures and anything else business owners may need to create a mutually beneficial program. They understand a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't always work, acknowledging that in cases when the program isn’t a viable option, then an alternative short-term, project-based option can be discussed – even micro internships.
FOR PARENTS - THINGS TO KNOW
Students are learning and growing – and the job market for early talent and graduates is challenging. Work experience (internships), personal presentation and communication are critical to professional outcomes. “Actual work-based experience is very eye-opening for students, often in a way nothing else can be,” Patty says. “If it’s where they want to be – it increases drive and engagement, academically and professionally.”
Success Stories
Evan Pyles
Bridgeland Dual Credit Student & FIP Intern at Westpark Communications
Current Bridgeland High School Dual Credit LSC-CyFair student, Evan Pyles, is gaining real-world insight into media and marketing while interning at Westpark Communications. Inspired by his own family’s endeavors in creating multiple successful companies and storefronts, Evan wanted a career in the business marketing/film field and is looking into creating a video production company. FIP works very hard to stay tied in with their students and although Evan was an exception, because the FIP team listened and engaged with the student and the employer, a successful match was found.
Daniela Santamaria
LSC-CyFair, FIP Dual Credit Alumni Continues Path to Law School at University of Houston
When Daniela started FIP she had a deep interest in contract law and real estate. Through the program, she learned about the variety of opportunities and industries that utilize attorneys outside of the courtroom. The Dual Credit alum excelled academically so her time in the program was focused on expanding her knowledge base of opportunities, confidence building and interview skills. Daniela’s experience in FIP led to her internship with Congressman Wesley Hunt’s office which then gave her the confidence to pursue other avenues. In fact, she even bypassed an opportunity with the Fort Bend County DA’s office due to the overlapping commitment with Congressman Hunt’s office, but they directly invited her to apply again. Daniela earned an Associate of Arts in Business with LSC-CyFair in 2024 and is now working on a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Marketing with a minor in Legal Studies at the University of Houston in pursuit of a career in law.
Tung “TJ” Vo
Cy-Fair ISD Alumni, LSC-CyFair work study student & FIP Completer to Study in Tunisia
TJ’s opportunities in FIP were to broaden his understanding of required industry skills. He spent time looking at job postings, exploring companies, and determining – based on what he sees from actual job listings – where he could expand his knowledge either with LSC-CyFair or through independent study. TJ also benefitted from having a dedicated, professional “cheering section” to depend on for advice, support, and proofreading. TJ took to heart the mantra of “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” TJ, a 2023 Jersey Village Cum Laude grad and LSC-CyFair work study student (who will graduate this May) was selected for an Amideast Education Abroad Scholarship for the Community and Social Entrepreneurship (CASE) Program in Tunisia. “By participating in this eight-day summer program, TJ hopes to expand his horizons of cultural competency and broaden his analytical perspective while developing his appreciation for diverse approaches to solving complex problems,” Patty shares. “His career goal is to be a data analyst for a company or community-oriented organization that tackles societal problems such as gender equity, healthcare access, and environmental degradation.”
TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE
Veteran-Owned Window Company
Elevates Home Aesthetics and Efficiency
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE PARNELL
After many years in commercial window and glazing, Marine veteran David Mallette saw firsthand the need for affordable and reliable services on the residential side. David felt called to act and expanded his footprint into the residential side by opening The Window Source of Houston.
“We love to help customers envision what they want their home to look like.”
Garnering a reputation as the best in the industry, David and his wife Margie and their team of professionals at The Window Source have completed numerous multi-million dollar commercial projects for residential, corporate and municipal clients.
“We love to help customers envision what they want their home to look like,” said David Mallette. “We offer a no-pressure consultation approach. We offer what’s best for the customer and their homes, not what’s best for The Window Source of Houston.”
Following his years in the commercial glass industry in the Houston area, David recognized the need for Houston to have affordable and reliable residential services for replacement windows and doors and felt called to act by opening The Window Source Of Houston.
“We offer top-quality and excellent customer service at an affordable price. We have an actual showroom located in Tomball,” added David. “Everything we do has a lifetime labor warranty. All the materials we use are the best products all the way down to the OSI sealants and foam. We can also help with small modifications like adding windows and doors where there aren’t any currently.”
The Window Source Of Houston offers a wide variety of services including installation and replacement of windows, doors, gutters and Hardie siding installation. With complimentary in-home window replacement consultations, the team can evaluate and assess their customers’ needs and help them find durable and energy-efficient replacement windows at affordable prices that elevate the curb appeal of any home.
The Window Source team isn’t afraid of a challenge and replaces numerous types of windows including bay windows, picture windows, bow, casement, garden windows and more. Available window materials include vinyl, composite and aluminum replacement windows, and highly recommend energy-efficient windows.
In addition to their window expertise, they are true experts in door replacement and installation. With exceptional service and quality, the team helps residential customers select doors that accentuate the home while offering durability and energy efficiency. From entry doors to storm doors, sliding glass doors, patio and french doors, The Window Source Of Houston offers fully-transferable lifetime warranties on all of their products and services.
In addition to being window and door experts, The Window Source Of Houston specializes in installing seamless gutters which can help prevent water damage in homes from Houston’s inclement weather. They’re also part of the James Hardie Contractor Alliance, bringing the community beautiful and sturdy HardiePlank and HardieShingle siding choices.
“A lot of people are going away from windows on the back of their home that open and are installing large picture windows,” remarked David. “We are installing a lot of big sliding doors, and black windows will continue to be the most popular in 2025.”
With the removal of high-pressure sales tactics, best-in-class products and services, and a lifetime warranty, The Window Source Of Houston is a trusted source for windows, doors, gutters, and siding in the Houston area. They offer both commercial and residential services.
“We stand behind everything we do,” said David. “We are a local veteran and family-owned company. We treat our customers like family.”
windowsourcehouston.com
GREEN CITY RECYCLERS
Reusing, Recycling and Repurposing Has Never Been Easier
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUNNY RAJABI
The average American produces 35 pounds of textile waste annually and nearly two-thirds of recyclable textiles still find their way to the landfill.
Green City Recycler is a local textile recycling company working hard to divert used clothing, shoes, and other household items from landfills. Through their efforts, they hope to reduce the millions of pounds of textile waste finding its way to the local landfill.
“Almost 95% of post-consumer textiles are recyclable but only a very small percentage of it actually gets recycled,” says Sam Ebenezer, CEO of Operations at Green City Recycler. “We see a future where 95% is collected and recycled. This can be achieved by creating awareness.”
Nearly 100% of textiles and clothes can be recycled or repurposed. Even if the item is stained or damaged, Green City Recycler will accept it and stop it from reaching the landfill.
Green City Recycler’s program has helped communities achieve their environmental goals, by partnering with schools, businesses and non-profits who host clothing recycling pods and help raise funds and awareness to support their mission.
Nearly 100% of textiles and clothes can be recycled or repurposed. Even if the item is stained or damaged, they will accept it and stop it from reaching the landfill.
CREATING AWARENESS
Striving to create awareness in the community on the importance of textile recycling, Green City Recycler is currently partnering with more than 40 public schools with a goal of partnering with 60-75 by the end of the year– as well as increasing the number of businesses who host a Green City Recycler pick up pod. “Our pods are well maintained, and are serviced at least twice a week,” Sam says. “By partnering with us, your business or school will also be featured in our advertising too.” The 4x4x6 foot Green City Recycler donation pod takes up less than the equivalent of one parking space. "Our pods will proudly showcase your business or school’s identity. Wrapped in your distinctive colors and adorned with your logo," Sam says. "The eye-catching pods will not only serve a practical purpose but also enhance your business or your school’s visibility."
For schools who partner with the Green City Recycler:
Fundraising Opportunity: For every pound of textiles collected in the recycling bin, the school receives a payment of 10 cents.
Promotion of Sustainability: By participating in textile recycling, students and the community learn about the importance of sustainability and the positive impact of recycling.
Community Involvement: This initiative encourages the involvement of the school community; students, parents, and staff in a meaningful environmental project that can benefit our school and beyond.
HOW IT WORKS
All the items from their recycling collection pods go to the pre-sort center first. From there, the items are sorted into different categories like textiles, books, toys, household items, shoes, etc. The textiles are then further categorized into four grades based on their usability. Grades A & B: The clothes are in good, re-useable condition and are sold to markets that are in need of good quality used clothing. Grades C & D: The clothes in these categories are not in good condition. They may have holes, rips, or other damage. These are cut into rags and sold to industries who use recycled clothing as raw materials in the production of new products. Jeans can be shredded and made into insulation. Some businesses even donate old, used uniforms to be safely repurposed via Green City Recycler. Additionally, Green City Recycler provides approximately one million Texas residents with weekly recycling services through their convenient pick-up service, available by request. The collected textiles can include clothing, shoes, and linens, and they will be repurposed, reused, or recycled, reducing waste and our environmental footprint.
Join Green City Recycler in the fight to reduce textile waste.
greencityrecycler.com
Sam Ebenezer, CEO of Operations at Green City Recycler
GARDEN TO GLASS
DIY COCKTAILS WITH FRESH HERBS
Nothing says spring like the aroma of fresh-cut herbs in a crisp, cold, cocktail. With warmer weather finally here, growing herbs at home can transform your cocktail hour and add a fresh kick to your springtime favorites.
Growing herbs is incredibly easy and can be done in a variety of ways—from a container in a window, to a planter box in the yard. With a container or garden full of fresh herbs, you will be ready to take your cocktails up a notch.
Basil is a bright herb that is easy to grow and perfect for cocktails. Make sure to harvest immediately before mixing drinks and take leaves from the top to ensure a continual harvest. Fresh muddled basil leaves lend a crispness to the Gin Basil Cucumber cocktail.
Sage is easy to grow and does well in containers. The leaves add an earthy freshness to a refreshing cherry-infused Bourbon.
Mint is also easy to grow, but give it lots of room, as it likes to spread out and is virtually indestructible in the garden. Mint is a versatile herb but is especially lovely in the Rhubarb Mint Mojito.
Try recreating these refreshing cocktails with herbs grown at home and take your cocktail game to new heights!
ARTICLE BY TARA NORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADALYN SINCLAIR
MR. BROWN INGREDIENTS
• 2 oz. cherry-sage infused Bourbon
• 0.75 oz. apple brandy or apple jack brandy
DIRECTIONS
• Place over an ice ball in an old-fashioned glass
• Top with ginger beer and garnish with Bordeaux cherries and leaf of sage
RHUBARB MINT MOJITO
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz. white rum
• 1 oz. rhubarb puree (2 cups rhubarb, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water)
• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice
• 8-10 fresh mint leaves
• soda water
• lemon-lime soda
• ice
DIRECTIONS:
• Muddle mint, lime juice, and rhubarb puree in a glass or small cocktail shaker
• Once muddled, add the white rum and ice
• Top with large cocktail shaker and shake for a few seconds
• Remove large shaker and pour everything into a glass
• Top with more ice
• Add soda water and lemon-lime soda (equal parts to your liking)
• Garnish with mint leaf and lime wheel
GIN BASIL CUCUMBER
INGREDIENTS
• 2-3 fresh basil leaves
• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice
• 0.25 oz. simple syrup
• 2-3 cucumber slices
• 2 oz. gin
• tonic water
DIRECTIONS
• Muddle basil, lime juice, simple syrup and cucumber slices together in a small cocktail shaker
• Add gin and ice to cocktail shaker
• Shake well
• Strain over an ice ball
• Top with tonic water and garnish with basil leaf and a cucumber slice
MARCH 8TH - APRIL 27TH
Dewberry Farm Spring Festival
Dewberry Farm | 7705 FM 362 Brookshire | 11:00 AM
A day filled with smiles, sun and Texas-sized fun at Dewberry Farm’s annual Spring Festival. Meet the Easter Bunny, embark on egg hunts, take family photos in our springtime social media photo-ops, enjoy delicious seasonal food specials, and more! dewberryfarm.com
APRIL 5TH
Jubilee Joy Fest
Jubilee | 26130 Happy Home Street in Hockley | 12:00 PM
The joyful celebration includes activities for all ages, including a scavenger hunt, bounce houses, inflatable slides and obstacle courses, with giant lawn games and photo ops. Children will also enjoy gem mining, sand art, face painting and a balloon artist. There will also be an interactive art installation by Alicia Egghert that is powered by human touch. Food trucks will be on hand, and eight model homes will be open for touring. jubileejoyfest.com
APRIL 12TH
The Cypress Market
12715 Telge Road, Cypress | 10:00 AM
The annual Cypress Market—a family-friendly event. Shop from local artisan vendors showcasing one-of-a-kind creations. Enjoy a variety of food trucks serving delicious options throughout the day. Let the kids explore the dedicated children’s area filled with fun activities. Relax and take in live music performed by talented artists. cy-hope.org/the-cypress-market
APRIL 12TH - 13TH
61st Annual Blue Bonnet Festival
Main Street and Providence, Chappell Hill, TX | 9:00 AM
A fun family day out at the 61st Annual Bluebonnet Festival. The festival boasts more than 100 vendors (home décor, gardening, artists, craftsmen, jewelry, clothing, etc.), delicious country-style food, live entertainment and tours of the historic community. Hosted by the Chappell Hill Historical Society, a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation of the community’s history and historical buildings. facebook.com/bluebonnetfestival
APRIL 12TH
Magic of Movies Under the Stars
The Tomball Depot Plaza | 201 S Elm St, Tomball | 5:00 PM
Experience the magic of movies under the stars at the Tomball Depot Plaza. Fun, free, family-friendly movie nights featuring fun kids’ activities before each screening. Bring blankets, chairs, and loved ones for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. The 2025 lineup starts April 12 features Honey, I Shrunk the Kids with more to come each month on Second Saturdays @ The Depot. tomballtx.gov
APRIL 26TH
CYFEN Spring Market
West Houston Church of Christ | 17100 West Road | 9:00 AM
A vibrant spring market designed to support small business owners while shopping for Mother's Day, Father's Day, home decor, fashion and more! cyfen.org
