SHOPPING
TESSA'S FAVORITE THINGS
ENTERTAINMENT
HOUSTON REPERTOIRE BALLET COMES TO CYPRESS
LIFE + CULTURE
CITY LIFESTYLE'S GIVING CAMPAIGN
LEADING CANCER CARE
At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, our dedicated oncologists are working to stop cancer using the latest innovations in research, treatments and technology. From genetic screenings and clinical trials to advanced imaging and robotic surgery, our cutting-edge cancer care is available in Cypress.
That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.
B aytown
Willowbrook
Sugar Land
The Woodlands
Clear Lake
Tex as Medical Center
Katy-West Houston
Cypress
Letter from the Editor
As another year comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on what a great year it’s been.
It’s impossible to rank our favorite features and experiences from 2024 but some highlights in my memory are our annual Women of Influence and Men of Distinction features in our May and June issues respectively. Always a reader-favorite!
ABC 13’s Elita Loresca capped off summer in our September Style issue, and we’re so honored to have her as a friend of the magazine.
Our October Foodie issue was historic-reaching and covering more than ever before–and so big we had to add over 20 pages to the issue, just to fit it all in! The most decadent issue ever!
Our one-of-a-kind photographer and writer extraordinaire, Erica Hernandez had the exciting opportunity to meet and interview not only Yellowstone’s Cole Hauser this fall, but also our favorite YouTuber, conservationist and expert-animal-guy— Coyote Peterson! Coyote is as fun and down-to-earth in person as he is on the screen!
Some of the people of note who stand out in my mind are the business owners, old and new, who get up every day and serve the community with lots of grit and often no glory. I loved getting to know each one of you, and what makes you and your business unique. Thank you to each of you for allowing me a peek behind the curtain, dive into your life, and share your stories.
We’ve met amazing people this year and this month is no exception! Our special feature cover story personality is well known and loved on The Rod Ryan show on 94.5 The Buzz and KPRC’s Houston Life. The hilarious, kind, gorgeous and relatable Texas native, Tessa Barrera has been a delight to get to know. We had a blast with a photoshoot and as we chatted, she shared a little about her life, and revealed some plans for the future. We can’t wait to see what else is in store for this stunning and inspiring woman! And check out our fun twist on this year's gift guide—thank you Tessa!
Things wouldn’t be complete without a handful of heartfelt thank yous. Thank you to our Photo Editor, Sunny Rajabi; your talent and dedication is unparalleled. Thank you to Arielle Alston, our Social Media Coordinator who makes us shine online. Special thanks to our publisher, Peggy Garner who inspires, leads and encourages us. We extend endless thank yous to our Cypress Lifestyle partners! We couldn’t do what we do and reach so many people and touch so many lives without you! And of course, last but not least, thank you to our team of extremely talented writers and photographers for making each issue a gorgeous, elevated and unique representation of our little corner of the world.
Until next year, Cypress!
LAURA SANCHEZQUAN, MANAGING EDITOR
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Peggy Garner | peggy.garner@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Laura SanchezQuan
laura.sanchezquan@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Sunny Rajabi | hello@sunburstphotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kaylee Dusang, Hope Vanderburg, Laura SanchezQuan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sunny Rajabi, Scott Nilsson, Julie Hacker, Steven O'Connor
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7:A Taste of Cy-Fair was held October 5th and raised a net of $66,000 which will go directly to Cy-Hope. The event, organized by local restauranteurs, business owners, and residents following Hurricane Harvey, has raised $333,000 for Cy-Hope has made a significant impact on all the kids & families who participate in Cy-Hope’s program. Photography by Apollo Productions
Holiday Stress Affecting Your Life?
The holidays can bring joy, but can also bring stress, anxiety, and reminders of unresolved pain. Reconnect with yourself and step into the New Year with renewed strength. We’re here to support you through this season. Our compassionate team will help you address the root of your struggles and guide you toward healing, resilience, and true peace.
SOME SAFETY TIPS:
- Choose flame-resistant or retardant decorations
- Keep lit candles away from anything flammable
- Use appropriate lights for indoors and outdoors
- Choose fresh-cut real trees with green needles
- Keep fresh trees away from all heat sources
- Use lights that are UL listed
- Turn off tree lights when leaving the house or overnight
Gastro Health & Nutrition Opens Cypress Location
Gastro Health & Nutrition has provided exceptional digestive care in Katy for five years, to help identify, treat, and manage gastrointestinal issues--they have now opened a Cypress location. Their physicians are board certified in Gastroenterology and Hepatology, and their expert staff offers exceptional care in a comfortable environment. Four providers at the new Cypress Office; Dr. Dharmendra Verma, Dr. Diana Franco, Dr. Richard LaCamera and Ami Patel, PA-C. yourgastrohealth.com
Twenty-three
Twenty-three CFISD students performing in the Houston Repertoire Ballet’s 25th annual performance of The
Nutcracker on Dec. 7-8. Cassandra Douthitt, Emma Mangold, Sara Alarcon, Lily Marshall, Lauren Freeman, Gabrielle Arrey, Mallory Burkhart and Savanna Flores, Annalise Howard, Willow deAlejandro, Melody Greene, Madelyn Crozier, Charlotte Crook, Maddie Nguyen and Rebeca Rosas, Emma Burkhart, Gricel Cabrera Hernandez, London Boyce, Svetlana Silva, Marlowe Wegener and Griffin deAlejandro. Not pictured are Nichole Pullman, Chantal Noble Hernandez and Liliana Cuestas.
Mak’s Pub & Grill now Open
Now open in Cypress at 9818 Fry Rd, Ste 130, Mak’s Pub & Grill is serving wings, burgers, salads, sandwiches and more. With Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 3 PM - 6 PM and Wednesday Night Steak nights, and a kids menu offering chicken tenders, grilled cheese, and mac’ and cheese. makspubandgrill.com
Silverback Defense Training has Moved
Newly located at 16326 Mueschke Rd. Suite E, Silverback Self Defense offers self-defense training to leave you feeling confident in your abilities to protect yourself and empowered with the knowledge and skills to do so effectively. silverback-selfdefense.com
CFISD Earns School FIRST top Rating for 22nd Straight Year
Cy-Fair ISD received a rating of Superior by the Texas Education Agency (TEA)’s School FIRST (Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas) program. This marks the 22nd consecutive top rating for CFISD. CFISD received the highest rating on 18 of 19 scored indicators. While a score of 70 indicates a passing mark, CFISD attained a score of 98. The highest possible score is 100. cfisd.net
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse now open in former Luby's Location
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse has opened a new location in Cypress in the former location of Luby’s at 25660 Hwy. 290. Serving deep dish pizza, steaks, burgers, pasta, salads, seafood, and more including their famous decadent pizookie dessert. Specializing in craft beer along with a full bar. bjsrestaurants.com
Dr Celesta Ferreira Owner & Optometrist
TESSA'S FAVORITE THINGS
HOLIDAY GIFTS AND EXPERIENCES HAND-PICKED BY HOUSTON LIFE'S TESSA BARRERA
You know her from The Rod Ryan show on 94.5 The Buzz and from KPRC’s Houston Life with co-host Derrick Shore; the fabulous Tessa Barrera shares where she's from, how she got here, and where she's headed next. And as a fun twist on our annual Gift Guide—Tessa compiled a list of her favorite things, à la Oprah, so we can live, shop, and give like her!
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF: I was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. It was for nationwide search for the Rod Ryan Show morning co-host that brought me to Houston in 2019.
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUNNY RAJABI | SUNBURST PHOTOGRAPHY
Before that, I was a news anchor and executive producer of KFI AM 640 talk radio news in Los Angeles. Previously, I worked at KZTV/KRIS where I was the first Latina sports anchor in south Texas. While in Corpus Christi, I covered the Astros minor league affiliate, Hooks, Texas A&M Corpus Christi Islanders, Texas A&M Kingsville Javelinas, and the entire south Texas high school sports circuit. During Hurricane Harvey, I discovered my knack for news and one of my stories made international headlines and was even tweeted out by the Pope!
I would consider myself a sports fanatic and am constantly cheering on the Astros, Texans, and Rockets. Recreationally, I enjoy sand volleyball, being out on the water, reading, and family vacations. I am passionate about…well everything, there is no story too small or too big to cover.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
I would say I'm a typical first born daughter. I have three younger siblings who I love to boss around. I am a yearner, I want a lot out of life and can get impatient. I've been pretty rough around the edges my whole life but I feel like I turned that into my superpower. I feel like "keeping it real" shouldn't be such a crazy concept, but apparently a lot of people struggle with it. I'm bold, silly, dramatic, and in my wildest dreams perhaps a little entertaining.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUNG WOMEN/ GIRLS WHO ARE INSPIRED BY YOU?
I would say whatever you think is special about me, is just a reflection of you.
Also, leaning into doing the hard or challenging things will always pay you back in dividends. If it excites/scares you in a good way, you should go for it. If it feels wrong, don't do it, but also know that there are no mistakes, just learning lessons.
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?
Since I've never been on the cover of a magazine (solo), I feel like I should share an exclusive piece of information, so here goes nothing. After five insane years of hogging the co-host mic with Rod Ryan Show, I've decided to let someone else have a turn.
I'm going to remain co-host of Houston Life as long as possible and lean into telling the stories of amazing Houstonians on television. Radio is such an important part of who I am and I'll never stop talking. I will continue to record a weekly podcast for people to keep up with my little life.
I am indebted to the greater Houston area for embracing me and showing me love. I'm also so very thankful to Rod Ryan for taking a chance on a crazy girl from Corpus Christi, I'd say it definitely worked out.
"Whatever you think is special about me, is just a reflection of you."
4. The Burning Stones | Crystal Quartz Cluster Oil Candle $160
TESSA BARRERA'S FAVORITE THINGS
1. The Secret Group | A fun Night-Out “They just celebrated 8 years in Houston and I hope they're around forever. Started by 4 local stand-up comics they put on local and nationally touring comedy and music acts.” thesecretgrouphtx.com
2. Queen Bee Distilling | Osmia Vodka: $84 “Owned and operated by two Texas women offering a quality product. Their Osmia Vodka has become a staple in my bar cabinet.” queenbeedistilling.com
3. Nard Got Sole Shoes Designs | CustomMade Personalized Shoes that Wow “When I got my first big bonus in radio, I splurged on some custom shoes from Nard.” nardgotsole.com
“This is one of my favorite gifts to buy! They’re made by one of the sweetest families I've had the pleasure of meeting. They are so unique and add beauty to any room. If you know a crystal lover this will knock their socks off!” theburningstones.com
5. Rent the Runway | Tessa’s Wardrobe Hack
“This is my hack for always having something new to wear on TV. I have a tiny closet, but I rent 15 looks per month from RTR. It's a women-owned business that has made my life much easier!” renttherunway.com
6. Sam and Davy | HTOWN cropped Sweatshirt $54
“This is a brand I’ve come to know and love thanks to my Houston Life co-host, Derrick Shore. Everyone should know about it.” samanddavy.com
7. The Flora Culture | Give the Love of Plants with The Flora Culture
"My Houston Life co-host, Derrick Shore, recently got me into plants when he gave me a Chinese money plant. In my head I now believe that the number in my bank account is directly correlated to the health of that plant. I just love the Flora Culture, owners Matthew and Jemine Oakes!" thefloraculture.com
8. Dr. Erica Bartlett, Plastic Surgeon | Let go of Your Insecurities
"Dr. Bartlett helped me with insecurities and to become what I believe is the best version of myself. She graduated at the top of her class at Baylor, and she keeps it real and she liposuctioned my tummy, and arms, and performed a breast implant swap for me."
To hear more about this journey listen on Tessa’s podcast; Tess Talks . townandcountryplasticsurgeons.com
9. Anti-Age Institute | Turn Back Time
“Again with the vanity, I know, I know, but I don't know that I'll ever not have a forehead full of Botox. I don't care, when it comes to Med Spas, the LaConey's are the best!” antiageinstitute.com
10. Manny Guerrero of MG Salon | Love Your Hair Again
“I promise I'll stop being vain after I shout out the man in charge of my hair. I would be completely gray without him, not that that's a bad thing, I am just mentally not ready...MAYBE NEXT YEAR!” Instagram @mannyghair_
11. Sweet Texas Treasure Boutique | Personalized Clothes and Other Great Treasures
“This is a really fun local business that embraces Texas roots. You can customize anything and everything!" sweettexastreasures.com
12. Copendero Indoor Archery, Pistol, and Rifle Range | Shop, Learn gun Safety, and Visit the Range
"When I say I'm a Texas girl, believe me I'm packin’. I have been independent my whole life, and I take self-defense seriously and responsibly. Copendero is a great place to go to learn gun safety, brush up on your pew-pew skills, and have some fun. I have a bow I like to shoot as well. Houston Life reporter, Lauren Kelly, introduced me to this place and my bf and I are huge fans." copendero.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.
Nutcracker THE
Local Ballet Company Takes Production to New Heights
ARTICLE BY HOPE VANDERBURG PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT NILSSON, JULIE HACKER & STEVEN O'CONNOR
The holiday tradition of The Nutcracker is a staple of the Christmas season. Houston Repertoire Ballet has been bringing this production to life for Northwest Houston audiences for 26 years. However this year, you will find them on a different stage.
The newly built Cy-Fair ISD Visual and Performing Arts Center is the new home of Houston Repertoire Ballet’s performances. “We're super excited to be in this new venue. We're very grateful that Cy-Fair ISD built the facility,” said Judy Jackson, executive assistant to the artistic director and board liaison.
Previously housed in the Tomball High School auditorium, the growth of the ballet company has led to a need for a bigger space to accommodate their audiences. Fortunately, the CFISD VPAC allows for double the seating capacity. Transitioning theaters required Houston Repertoire Ballet to recreate their sets to fill the larger stage. They collaborated with scenic designer Ian Loveall to render the new designs, and Dallas Stage Scenery handcrafted the eye-catching set pieces and backdrops. “I cannot wait to see this all come to fruition,” Jackson said. “Everybody is very excited about it.”
The change in venue also provides Houston Repertoire Ballet with an orchestra pit to accommodate their in-house orchestra, founded last year. The orchestra, under the direction of conductor and music director Tarana Taylor, features professional musicians and educators from CFISD and surrounding school districts. The venue’s unique sound system will amplify the talents of the musicians. The CFISD VPAC houses the only L-Acoustics L-ISA immersive audio in Houston. “We're excited about the acoustics and the sound that the orchestra is going to put out,” Jackson said.
The official school of Houston Repertoire Ballet, Ballet Center of Houston, is located less than 10 minutes from the CFISD VPAC. Jackson is excited to bring productions closer to their dancers’ community. “It's really cool to be kind of in our own backyard and… to bring these ballet performances right here,” Jackson said.
Ballet Center of Houston offers a broad curriculum, starting with beginner classes for those who want to try ballet to advanced training for pre-professionals, according to their website. When students are in levels six through 10 of the school, they are eligible to be invited into the Houston Repertoire Ballet company. As part of the performance company, members are selected for roles in stage productions based on their capabilities and progression.
For “The Nutcracker” specifically, there are more opportunities for minor roles that can be auditioned for by students in lower levels. Jackson said the faculty strives to make this audition process fun and exciting. “We're not a competitive environment. We're more of a team building environment,” Jackson said. “We want all of our experiences for our dancers to be positive.”
A unique aspect of Houston Repertoire Ballet’s Nutcracker is their professional guest artists. Each
year, they bring in two adult dancers, sometimes alumni, from highly acclaimed ballet companies across the world to portray the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. This year, Houston Repertoire Ballet is welcoming Léa Fleytoux and Jake Roxander from American Ballet Theatre in New York City.
As a 501(c)(3) non profit organization, Houston Repertoire Ballet’s mission is to provide families in Northwest Houston with opportunities to be exposed to ballet and the arts at an affordable cost.
“It’s gonna be such an incredible Nutcracker, especially for the community in the new theater, in the new location,” said Victoria Vittum, artistic director and co-founder. “We're just so excited about everything being so brand new.”
www.hrbdance.org
DRIVEN TO SERVE AND PROTECT
ARTICLE BY KAYLEE DUSANG
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CY-FAIR FIRE DEPARTMENT
Cy-Fair Fire Department Looks to Future Growth and Service
For more than five decades, Cy-Fair Fire Department has maintained its mission to serve the community and save lives. Beginning as a rural volunteer fire department in 1962, the agency has become one of the largest combination fire departments in the United States. Covering approximately 164 square miles, an area larger than Corpus Christi, the fire department operates from 13 stations and employs more than 500 personnel. "Cy-Fair Fire Department has always been committed to making a positive impact through professionalism and dedication,” Assistant Chief Mike Clements said. “Over the years, we’ve grown alongside the community, continuously adapting to meet its needs.”
Cy-Fair firefighters respond to a wide range of emergency situations, from natural disasters and wildfires to vehicle crashes and search and rescue missions. Personnel within the department respond to an average of 105 calls per day and more than 38,000 calls annually. 81% of those calls are Emergency Medical Services (EMS) related. However, the fire department’s service extends beyond emergency response. The agency remains involved in the community through its public services, such as providing station tours and basic fire education, and delivering fire, health,
and safety messages to local schools, churches, and organizations. Cy-Fair firefighters present a variety of safety programs like CPR presentations, kid's and adult safety classes, car seat installs, and safety messaging via social media.
The department provides employment opportunities, advises local leaders on issues, and keeps highways safe and traffic flowing. As part of their vision for future growth, the fire department invests in the latest technologies and methods to provide the most efficient emergency response. This includes the recent completion of Station 6 and six more proposed stations as well as the implementation of specialized training and new equipment.
“Whether through improved training programs, updated equipment, or expanding our services, we remain focused on delivering the highest level of emergency response and support,” Clements said.
Cy-Fair Fire Department operates under Harris County Emergency Services District Number 9, a taxing district that supports and provides local emergency services, such as fire protection and EMS. The district, led by a board of five commissioners, is often more cost effective than a municipal fire department. It is funded by property taxes based on residential and commercial appraisals and serves a population of more than 600,000 that continues to grow each year. And yet the district maintains the lowest tax rate among the 12 area ESDs.
In 2023, Cy-Fair Fire Department was recognized as number one in the nation for customer service among large agencies by EMS Survey Team, further demonstrating their commitment to deliver exceptional fire and EMS services in Northwest Harris County. “Our goal is to ensure that we not only protect our residents but actively contribute to a safer and healthier community every day," Clements said. cyfairfd.org
Top Tax Tips
Expert End-of-Year Tax Advice
With more than two decades of experience in accounting and tax preparation with his most recent leadership roles in various industries as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Vice President of Finance, Tommy Diaz has extensive leadership and technical experience assisting clients with individual and business tax preparations. He holds degrees in Accounting and Finance and is a licensed certified public accountant. Tommy performs CFO related services including accounting, budgeting and forecasting, and financial statement preparation for small and mid-size businesses, working with clients to meet and improve their debt covenants with financial institutions and lenders.
We asked Tommy to share helpful and important, end-of-year tax tips with us.
TOMMY’S END-OF-YEAR TAX TIPS:
• If your employer offers a 401(k) or other retirement plan, look at it as an opportunity to put away your money before it’s taxed. Just as important, if your employer matches your contributions, make it a priority to meet the match. It’s an opportunity to double your money.
• It’s easy to brag when you get a big refund check, but what that really means is you’ve been lending the government money interest-free for the year. Work with your employer to adjust the amount withheld from each paycheck so it more accurately reflects the
taxes you’ll need to pay at the end of the year. The IRS offers an online calculator to help you fill out the W-4 form your employer uses to figure out how much to withhold from each paycheck.
• Whether you’re driving for a ride-sharing service once a week or occasionally freelancing, you’ll need to pay taxes on any self-employment income. Unlike your regular paycheck, taxes aren’t withheld, which requires extra planning and record-keeping on your part. In many cases you’ll be expected to pay taxes quarterly rather than paying it all at the end of the year or you may face penalties when you file in April. However, you may be able to deduct many expenses related to your side job. Unless you have a large number of deductible expenses, it makes more sense to take the standard deduction ($12,550 for individuals or $25,100 for married couples filing jointly in 20212). But if you have a mortgage, state and local taxes, large medical bills or self-employment expenses, you may have enough deductions to justify itemizing. It’s not just the big-ticket items, though. Charitable donations, home efficiency improvements, job hunting and self-employment expenses can be deducted if you itemize.
Be sure to keep all receipts and records so you’ll be able to calculate accurately when it’s time to do taxes and back up your deductions if you get audited.tommydiazcpa.com
Tommy Diaz, CPA
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
See detailed insights into your body’s health Get a personalized plan that’s right for you Prioritize your health and well-being No purchase necessary
Remote monitoring represents the best way to detect the operating condition of your generator. This system will be able to detect and provide notification of a failure in real time.
Protect your investment with affordable generator monitoring solutions that are efficient and at the same time cost-effective. Remote monitoring prevents 95% of “fail-to-start” situations, including, but not limited to:
HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
SURE TO BE CROWD PLEASERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INDULGE IN THESE DELICIOUS, STRESS-FREE RECIPES simple, yet fancy,
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FINAZZO FOX
Pear & Brie Cheese
Salad Skewers
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pears (or substitute green apple)
• 8 ounces of brie cheese
• 2 cups baby arugula
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• Balsamic glaze
INSTRUCTIONS
• Cut pear and brie into 1/2-inch cubes. Leaving the rind makes skewers less sticky to handle!
• Take (4-inch) skewer, add pear, arugula, and cheese.
• Gently press chopped walnuts onto brie cheese to stick.
• Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop.
Cranberry & Pecan Cheese Crostini
INGREDIENTS
• 1 (8 oz.) container light cream cheese spread
• ½ cup chopped cranberries
• 1 Tbsp. grated orange peel
• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
• Rosemary and olive oil crostinis
INSTRUCTIONS
• Top crostinis with a dollop of cream cheese.
• Add cranberries and pecans.
• Garnish with grated orange peel.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
VARIOUS PERFORMANCES
Christmas Spectacular 2024 at Champion Forest Baptist Church
CFBC Champions Worship Center | 15555 Stuebner-Airline | Various Performance Times
Including 2 Spanish Shows A family friendly show celebrating the birth of Jesus and the joy of the holiday season! This cherished tradition combines Broadway-scale songs, stunning dance performances, dazzling lights, and special effects that will captivate all ages. Gather your family and friends, and experience the wonder and true meaning of Christmas in a show you won’t want to miss! championforest.org
DECEMBER 6TH
Behold The Lamb of God 25th Anniversary Tour
Houston's First Baptist Church - Cypress | 11011 Mason Rd | 7:00 PM
Join storied Nashville singer-songwriter and author Andrew Peterson as he presents the Advent song cycle Behold the Lamb of God: The True Tall Tale of the Coming of Christ. Now in the tour's 25th year, Behold the Lamb will feature guest artists Jess Ray, The Arcadian Wild, Andy Gullahorn, Jill Phillips, Andrew Osenga, and Skye Peterson along with an all-star cast of Nashville songwriters and session musicians. houstonsfirst.org
DECEMBER 7TH-8TH
Houston Repertoire Ballet’s 26th annual performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker
CFISD Visual & Performing Arts Center | 11420 Matzke Road | 2:00 PM
Houston Repertoire Ballet’s 26th annual performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, featuring professional guest artists of the American Ballet Theatre and 23 CFISD students. This is exciting year as this is the first time performing in the CFISD VPAC offering enhanced seating, orchestra pit and stunning new set designs. Performance times: December 7 at 2PM & 7PM and December 8 at 1PM & 4:30PM. hrbdance.org
DECEMBER 7TH
Fairfield Christmas Market
Good Shepherd UMC | 15096 Tall Hickory Ln | 9:00 AM
The 2024 Fairfield Christmas Market will have more than 105 vendor booth spaces, food trucks, face painting, raffles, homemade baked goods, and live Christmas music. Vendor tents will be arranged outside in the parking lot near the 290 feeder. This is a rain or shine event. goodchurch.us
DECEMBER 7TH
The Cy-Fair FFA Country Christmas Craft Show
Cy-Fair ISD Exhibit Center | 11206 Telge Road | 9:00 AM
Enjoy shopping 175+ vendors in over 225 booths pictures with Santa, Chicken Bingo, the Cake Walk, and some great food at our bake sale, and concessions stand. Listen to local school choirs sing your favorite carols. Stop by the Silent Auction and the pet adoption from local rescue groups! cyfaircountrychristmas.org
events
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 12TH-14TH
Second Baptist's Kids Crazy Christmas Show
Second Baptist Church - Cypress | 29900 HWY 290 | Various Performance Times
An unforgettable Christmas show for the entire family. Join Bessie the Cow and the rest of the crew at Christmas Farms as they share the Good News of Jesus’ birth. The Kids Crazy Christmas Show features live puppets, fun music, dancing, and lots of laughter. Bring friends and family to hear about the true joy of Christmas. second.org
DECEMBER 12TH-14TH
Cypress Creek Theatre Company Presents: Almost Maine
Cy-Creek Blackbox Theatre | 9815 Grant Rd. | 7:00 PM
Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place that’s so far north, it’s almost not in the United States. It’s almost in Canada. One cold, clear, winter night, as the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, the residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. December 12-13, 7PM-9PM and December 14, 2PM-4PM and 7PM-9PM. facebook/cypresscreektheatreco
DECEMBER 13TH-15TH
Tomball German Fest & Christmas Market
Old Town Tomball | 201 S. Elm Street | 10:00 AM
Family-friendly music/street festival with three stages of live music and an open-air market along with antique shops in the old town area. Saturday parade starts at 11 AM, followed by our famous “tapping of the keg” and Willkommen ceremony for German exchange students and their Tomball host families. Friday 6PM-10PM, Saturday 10AM-10PM and Sunday 10AM-6PM. Free parking with shuttle from HCA Tomball on Saturday and Sunday.
DECEMBER 30TH
Family Gingerbread House Event
Grace Life Baptist Church | 13515 Huffmeister Rd | 9:00 AM
A fun family morning of making gingerbread houses. Sign up online to bring the whole family or come with a friend! gracelifebaptist.org
