NAM’s Holiday Project reaches over 7,000 people
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted January 5, 2009

Northwest Assistance Ministries’ 2008 Holiday Project provided needy families with holiday food at Thanksgiving and in December, as well as gifts for children reaching more than 7,000 people thanks to the support of volunteers, individuals, congregations, organizations and area businesses.
During the past holiday season, NAM’s Holiday Project provided food to 3,987 people. The food included turkeys, holiday trimmings and enough food to provide meals for three to five days. The project also collected and distributed gift bags to 3,351 children.
“The Holiday Project really is a labor of love for hundreds of volunteers who donate time and resources to help brighten the holidays for needy families,” said Carole Little, NAM President & CEO. “This year, with the downturn in the economy, requests for food have been up 20% from last year.”
During NAM’s last fiscal year, the organization touched the lives of more than 120,000 people through programs and services such as Assistance, the Interfaith Hospitality Network for families in transition from homelessness, the Children’s Clinic, the Food Pantry, the Family Violence Center, three Resale Shops, Meals on Wheels, the Fifty Plus Senior Center, Rotary Learning Center/Workforce Development, and the Shelter and Energy Assistance program.
NAM is a non-profit, community-based, multi-program social service agency that is supported by 48 congregations, 18 affiliate organizations and over 140 business community partners. NAM has served north and northwest Harris County for more than 25 years. For information on NAM’s programs and services, call 281-885-4555 or visit NAM’s website at www.namonline.org.

Pam and Bob Hughes deliver holiday food and toys to benefit families served by NAM. 

Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union to give away scholarships to area graduating seniors
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted January 5, 2009

Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union is looking to help Cy-Fair area seniors start their college education with a $1,000 scholarship. The credit union’s philosophy is all about people helping people. Debbie Blackshear, president said “Cy-Fair FCU has always been a huge supporter of education. The credit union was originally formed for the Cy-Fair Independent School District and now is open to the entire Cy-Fair community. We are excited about the opportunity to help our area students achieve their college dreams.”
Scholarships are available to any graduating senior in the Cy-Fair Community who will be attending an accredited college, junior college or university. Five lucky winners will be selected to receive the credit union’s annual scholarships in May.  Credit union membership is not required. For applications visit our website at www.cyfairfcu.org or stop by one of our branches. The deadline for applications is February 20, 2009.
Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union is a 52 year old, full-service financial institution serving more than 18,000 members who live, work, or worship within the boundaries of the Cy-Fair Independent School District and parts of Waller County. The Credit Union has 3 full-service branches -- the Main Branch at 9601 Jones Road (with drive-through lanes nearby on Ranchstone Drive), the Stone Creek Branch at 1627 FM 529 and the Skinner Branch located at 13525 Skinner Rd.  For more information, call 281-890-7676. 

Cy-Fair preschool adopts preschool in Galveston
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted January 2, 2009

Thee Heritage Christian School (THCS) in Cy-Fair has “adopted” East End Preschool in Galveston. Ike devastated the school and its families. The school building is over 100 years old and took in 3 feet of water, destroying everything in the office, library, nursery and classrooms. Every family in the school except one had water in their homes or lost everything. The parents of THCS have gathered and delivered more than 500 pounds of clothing and shoes, helping more than 30 children in 25 families. THCS is currently holding more than 60 boxes of books, toys, games and classroom supplies to deliver to the school when the school is ready to reopen. THCS received help from Little Lambs Preschool in Fairfield, who also gathered books for EEP. East End Preschool hopes to reopen by the end of January 2009.

This is only some of the clothes that were delivered to the families of EEP. 

Cy-Fair Tailgaters win Tailgater of the Year
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 30, 2008

The Battle Red Wagon Tailgaters of Cypress won the 2009 Houston Texans Tailgater of the Year competition.  After winning a "Tailgater of the Game" competition in August, the team was asked to compete at Reliant Stadium on Sunday, December 28 before the Texans vs. Chicago Bears game. The cooking team served bacon wrapped quail, tortilla soup, oxtail soup, crawfish ettoufe, chicken, sausage, wings, ribs, cardiac potatoes, beans, gumbo, pork, and homemade peach cobbler. The BRWT won a Pitts and Spitts barbecue pit and a $1000 gift certificate to H.E.B. Congratulations to the team! 

Cy Woods athletes sign with colleges
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 18, 2008

Seven Cypress Woods High School senior athletes signed national letters of intent to play collegiate athletics for the 2009-2010 school year during a signing party in the Cypress Woods gymnasium on Wednesday, Dec. 17.
Volleyball players Caleigh McCorquodale and Shannon McClean signed with Texas State University and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, respectively.
Swimmer Seraphina Van signed with Purdue University.
From the baseball team, Michael Hilliard signed with Sam Houston State University, Jeremy Fant signed with Rice University and Andy Lada and Casey Grayson signed with Navarro College. 

Teacher receives English Language Arts award
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 18, 2008

Cypress Falls High School English teacher Kausam Salam was announced a winner of the Outstanding Educator in English Language Arts award by the Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts (TCTELA).
The award recognizes four professionals in the elementary school, middle school, high school and college/university levels. In addition to the award, Salam will receive one year of free membership in the TCTELA. She was nominated by Cy-Fair High School English teacher Christie McWilliams, a fellow TCTELA member.
Salam and her fellow winners will be recognized at the TCTELA Conference, to be held at the Renaissance Worthington Hotel in Fort Worth from Jan. 30 – Feb. 1, 2009.
“I am fortunate to work with the best student community of writers,” Salam said. “I’ve always had students who want to learn, so I’m spoiled that way. Their enthusiasm and drive keep me writing and learning.” 

Calhoun assumes presidency of TTCA
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 18, 2008

Cypress Woods High School head tennis coach Tim Calhoun was named president of the Texas Tennis Coaches Association (TTCA) at the TTCA’s annual convention, held Dec. 5-6 in New Braunfels.
Calhoun has been involved with the TTCA—the largest public school tennis coaches organization in the United States—since 1995, when he became region vice president. In 2004 he was elected as second vice president, which began his eight-year commitment to the organization. After two years as second vice president, he served two years as the first vice president before assuming his current president role. Calhoun will preside in this position for two years and complete his term with two years as past president. Calhoun will remain a board member until he is no longer an active coach.
Calhoun is in his seventh year with CFISD, having served four years at Cypress Ridge before arriving at Cypress Woods in 2006.
He said his goals for the TTCA include increasing membership by at least 25 percent, creating a better working relationship between the UIL and the TTCA and bringing in accomplished speakers to help motivate coaches statewide.
“It is with honor that I have become President of the Texas Tennis Coaches Association,” Calhoun said. “I vow to do my best to represent the TTCA as well as Cy-Fair ISD and the state of Texas.” 

Shepard named top player in Texas
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 18, 2008

The Associated Press named Cypress Ridge High School senior quarterback Russell Shepard the Class 5A Offensive Player of the Year on Thursday morning, when the AP released its All-State high school football team.
Shepard, who will play for LSU in 2009, threw for 1,458 passing yards and 16 touchdowns and ran for 17 touchdowns. The All-State team is selected based on regular season performance. Including the postseason, Shepard passed for 20 touchdowns and ran for 28.
“Russell Shepard is very deserving of every award and accolade that comes his way,” said Cypress Ridge head coach Gary Thiebaud. “He’s a great quarterback, leader, competitor and humanitarian. We will hear great things about Russell for many years to come, both on the athletic field and in our society.”
Cypress Creek High School senior quarterback Austin Pugliese was selected Honorable Mention All-State Offense.
Cypress Woods High School senior linebacker Patrick West was named Honorable Mention All-State Defense. 

Tracey Wickersham joins Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 18, 2008

Debbie Blackshear, President of the Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union (FCU) has announced that Tracey Wickersham has been hired as Vice President of Human Resources and Training for the northwest Houston credit union. Guiding the human resources and training of Cy-Fair FCU, Ms. Wickersham is responsible for the recruitment and development of the credit union staff, ensuring they are living out the vision, mission and service promises of the credit union.
Ms. Wickersham brings over 10 years of human resource experience including recruiting and employee relations and compliance to the position. Before joining the credit union, she was a Senior Human Resource Consultant for the Wealth Management division of BOK Financial Corporation in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Debbie Blackshear, President of Cy-Fair FCU said “We are very excited to have Tracey join our team.  Her experience and background will be an asset in leading our staff in our vision of enriching each of our member’s life.”
Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union is a 52 year old, full-service financial institution serving more than 18,000 members who live, work, or worship within the boundaries of the Cy-Fair Independent School District and parts of Waller County. The Credit Union has 3 full-service branches -- the Main Branch at 9601 Jones Road (with drive-through lanes nearby on Ranchstone Drive), the Stone Creek Branch at 1627 FM 529 and the Skinner Branch located at 13525 Skinner Rd. For more information call 281-890-7676. 

Provenzano a finalist for Director of the Year Award
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 18, 2008

Cypress Springs High School Panteras director Sally Provenzano was selected as one of four finalists for the Texas Dance Educators Association (TDEA) Director of the Year Award.
The TDEA Director of the Year award is given to a director with five or more years of service who exemplifies the philosophy, ethics and standards of TDEA.
Provenzano was nominated by her peers across the state, and was notified of her nomination in November. The winner will be announced at the TDEA annual convention, to be held Jan. 8-10, 2009 at the Marriott Westchase Hotel in Houston.
“It’s a tremendous honor to be nominated,” Provenzano said. “I love my profession and I’m fortunate to work with a team of outstanding young ladies and talented colleagues, and I am very grateful to be representing Cy-Fair ISD.” 

Board approves 2009-2010 instructional calendar
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 16, 2008

The CFISD Board of Trustees approved the Calendar Committee’s recommendation for the 2009-2010 instructional calendar during its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, Dec. 15.
HB1 mandated that instruction for the school year may not begin before the fourth week in August. For the 2009-2010 instructional year, the earliest start date would be Aug. 24.
Students begin school on Monday, Aug. 24, 2009; Labor Day, Sept. 7, is a student/staff holiday; the calendar has a three-day Thanksgiving holiday (Nov. 25-27); there is a two-week Winter Break for students (Dec. 21 – Jan. 5). Staff members also have a two-week Winter Break (Dec. 21 – Jan. 1), and two professional development days are scheduled for Jan. 4-5; Spring Break is scheduled for March 15-19, 2010; the school year ends on June 2, 2010; and Dec. 21 and 22, 2009, Feb. 15, 2010 and June 3, 2010 will be student holidays/non-school days unless inclement weather makeup days are required. If makeup days are required, student absences will be addressed as they are with any other instructional day. 

Students place at FFA competition
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 16, 2008

Three Langham Creek High School FFA students placed third at the State FFA Leadership Competition in the Radio and Broadcasting category.
Erika Forshee, senior, Jackie Wagner, senior and Lindsey Nyquist, junior, placed with their announcement concerning the impact of bees on the environment. The trio qualified for state by placing second at the District VII meet and first at the Area III meet.
Langham Creek’s FFA sponsor and agriscience teacher is Debra Hargrave.

From left, Jackie Wagner, Erika Forshee and Lindsey Nyquist hold their third-place banner from the Radio and Broadcasting category at the State FFA Leadership Competition. 

Thespians qualify for international festival
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 16, 2008

Eighteen CFISD students placed in the top two of their categories at the 2008 Texas Thespian State Festival—held Nov. 20-22 in Fort Worth—to qualify for the International Thespian Festival (ITF), to be held June 22-27, 2009 in Lincoln, Neb.
Cypress Ridge High School senior Garrett Line was named the 2008 Texas Thespian Scholarship Recipient after performing a monologue from the play Rhinoceros and sang “If I Were a Rich Man” from the play Fiddler on the Roof. Line qualified for the ITF by placing second in Monologue for his performances of Cyrano de Bergerac and Talk Radio.
Other Cypress Ridge qualifiers are: Bradley Rheinboldt, senior; Rachel Domask, senior; Kathryn Diaz, junior; and Megan Tegethoff, senior.
“I am very proud of all the Cy-Ridge students and their accomplishments at the State contest this year,” said Bryan Moses, Cypress Ridge theatre director.
The following Cypress Creek High School students qualified: Jon Cozart, sophomore, and Lauren Harsany, sophomore, first place in Duet Musical; Emily McClennen, junior, and Natalie Tischler, sophomore, second place in Duet Pantomime; Tyler Galindo, junior, second place in Solo Musical; and Nathaniel Margolis, sophomore, second place in Solo Pantomime.
The following Cypress Woods High School students qualified: Phillip Wozny, senior, Bryan Gray, senior; Ethan Spell, senior; Kaitlin Bennett, junior; Allison Houser, junior; and McKenna Wafer, junior.
“We are so excited to have so many students qualify for Nationals for the second year in a row," said Wendy Carrell, Cypress Woods theatre director. “It is a testament to their hard work and dedication to the department.”
Cypress Falls High School senior Genevieve Simmons qualified for ITF in Solo Musical.

Cy Creek Thespians (clockwise from top left): Jon Cozart, Nathaniel Margolis, Tyler Galindo, Lauren Harsany, Emily McClennen and Natalie Tischler.

Six Cypress Woods High School students also qualified for the ITF after placing first and second at state. Pictured from left to right are Phillip Wozny, Bryan Gray, Allison Houser, Ethan Spell, McKenna Wafer and Katie Bennett. 

Board members sworn in; Board officers elected
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 12, 2008

Two new members of the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Board of Trustees who were elected during the Nov. 4 general election were sworn into office during a special-called meeting on Thursday, Dec. 11.
Larry Youngblood was sworn into office for Position 1 and Ethel Wolfe was sworn into office for Position 2 for three-year terms that will expire in 2011.
Cindy Wright, notary public and secretary to the superintendent of schools, administered the oath of office to the two winners. Following the oath, the Board reorganized by electing a president, vice president and secretary in accordance with Board Policy BDAA (Local).
Trustees voted for the following Board officers: Lou Bertoli was elected as the new Board president, replacing Don Ryan; Dr. John Ogletree Jr. replaced Bertoli as the new Board vice president; and Bob Covey replaced Dr. Ogletree as the new Board secretary.

Board Members: Ethel Wolfe, left, and Larry Youngblood, center, were sworn into Positions 2 and 1, respectively, of the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Board of Trustees during a special-called meeting on Thursday. Youngblood is pictured with his wife, Marie Youngblood.

Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Achieves Advanced Certification as a Primary Stroke Center
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 12, 2008

Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital has earned the Gold Seal of Approval™ from The Joint Commission for stroke care and was awarded the certification as a Primary Stroke Center. Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital is one of only 6 hospitals in the city of Houston to achieve this advanced certification and the only hospital in the Cy-Fair area to receive this distinction.
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital’s comprehensive cardiovascular and stroke program has a protocol driven and systematic approach to patient management allowing physicians to reduce the time to treatment during the early stages of a heart attack or stoke, when treatments are most effective.
The Stroke Team at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital, a team of specially trained physicians, nurses and staff, is called to action when a patient is exhibiting symptoms of a stroke. The team consults with highly trained neurologists, called Specialists on Call, via an advanced telecommunications system, referred to as telemedicine, to review each stroke patient’s condition and to quickly establish a course of treatment with the qualified specialists.
In addition to certification as a Primary Stroke Center, Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital is designated as an Accredited Chest Pain Center by the Society of Chest Pain Centers. The hospital has also received a five-star rating for the treatment of stroke four years in a row (2006-2009) and was ranked among the top 5 hospitals in Texas for overall critical care in 2008 by HealthGrades, a leading independent health care ratings company.
“We are pleased that our hospital has received the Primary Stroke Center Certification from the Joint Commission,” said Terry Wheeler, chief executive officer of Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital.  “This designation recognizes our dedication to providing outstanding care to our patients and our community.”
To learn more about stroke and the quality care at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital, call 1-800-681-2733. 

NAM Helps Thousands Through the Holidays
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 11, 2008

Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) supporters rallied together to combat hunger over the holidays, collecting and distributing enough food to feed more than 800 families for three to five days this Thanksgiving. The 800 families represented 4,023 individuals who were helped by NAM.
This week, NAM will complete its winter holiday distribution, giving out food to 1,000 families and age-appropriate gifts to 3,500 children in need. The food and toy distribution begins Saturday, Dec. 13 at 9 a.m. at NAM (15555 Kuykendahl Rd). Nearly half of the donation recipients will attend this distribution, with the other half picking up their items later in the week.
“The holiday projects at NAM are a wonderful way for the community to share their blessings with families experiencing tough times,” said Carole Little, NAM President and CEO. “The food and toys allow struggling families to maintain a semblance of normalcy for their children even during stressful times.”
Food and gift donations for the Thanksgiving and Holiday Distributions came from all areas of the city. "Providing food, gifts and holiday hope for our neighbors in need requires a lot of support," said Lynn Mikhail, NAM Assistance Program Director. "It takes a big group of volunteers to do the Holiday Project effectively." Local churches, organizations and businesses held food and toy drives, individuals donated, and hundreds of volunteers gave selflessly of their time this holiday season to positively affect the lives of thousands of area families in need.
For more information about the NAM Holiday Projects, contact Lynn Mikhail at 281-885-4587.

TD Club tabs Shepard Offensive Player of the Year
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 11, 2008

Cypress Ridge High School senior quarterback Russell Shepard added yet another trophy to his growing collection on Wednesday night, when the Touchdown Club of Houston awarded him the 2008 Offensive Player of the Year at the High School Awards Dinner, held at the JW Marriott.
About 1,000 people attended the awards dinner, including Shepard’s future coach at Louisiana State University, Les Miles.
“Going into this, we felt like it was a no-brainer,” said Cypress Ridge head coach Gary Thiebaud. “Russell Shepard is the best football player in the nation and he deserved that award. They were showing highlight clips of him last night, and you could tell people in the crowd were amazed at some of the phenomenal plays he made for us. Coach Miles was all smiles knowing that Russell will be in Baton Rouge next year.”
Cypress Falls High School senior quarterback Kolby Gray was a finalist for Offensive Player of the Year, Cypress Ridge senior linebacker Princeton Jackson was a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year and Cypress Creek High School head coach Greg McCaig and Cypress Woods High School head coach David Jones were finalists for Coach of the Year.

Pictured, from left to right, are defensive coordinator Ronald Patton, senior linebacker Princeton Jackson, senior quarterback Russell Shepard and head coach Gary Thiebaud. 

Area Honda dealers name Shepard 2008 Player of the Year
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 10, 2008

The Texas Gulf Coast Honda Dealers presented the Honda Player of the Year award to Cypress Ridge High School senior quarterback Russell Shepard on Tuesday during a special presentation.
Honda representatives gave Shepard a trophy for his achievement and presented the Cypress Ridge High School athletics program with a $3,000 check.
“This is our second year to present this award. We enjoy doing this because we are all about the local community and we are very involved with Cy-Fair ISD,” said Mac DeLaup, president of John Eagle Honda and the Texas Gulf Coast Honda Dealers. “We’ve all been following Russell throughout his high school career and recognize that he is truly a special athlete. We can’t wait to watch him play at LSU.”
Members of the Houston-area media voted on the award, giving the nod to the Rams’ dual-threat quarterback. Shepard accounted for 1,843 passing yards, 20 passing touchdowns, 1,946 rushing yards and 28 rushing touchdowns during the 2008 season. He was unanimously named the District 15-5A Offensive MVP and is a finalist for the Touchdown Club of Houston Offensive Player of the Year. He was selected to play in the 2009 Under Armour All-America Game on Jan. 4 before enrolling at Louisiana State University in the spring.
Joining DeLaup in presenting the award were Mark Rehkopf and Rod Hall, vice president and treasurer of Texas Gulf Coast Honda Dealers, respectively, and Fox 26 sports director Mark Berman.

Pictured from left to right are: Russell Shepard, father; Mark Rehkopf, TGCHD vice president; Shepard; Rod Hall, TGCHD treasurer; Mac DeLaup, TGCHD president; and Gary Thiebaud, Cypress Ridge head coach. 

Toy Drive benefits Cypress Assistance Ministries families
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 10, 2008

Lone Star College-CyFair Student Ambassadors Ever Javier and Daniella Silkwood are surrounded with the generosity of LSC-CyFair faculty, staff and students participating in the annual Angel Tree Toy Drive. This year, participants adopted 68 angel ornaments to fill requests for toys, gift cards and baskets to help brighten the holiday for area families through Cypress Assistance Ministries. The toys were delivered to CAM the second week in December. 

Cypress Ridge teacher wins NOVA Teacher of the Year
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 10, 2008

Cypress Ridge High School World History teacher Ashley Howard received the 2007-2008 NOVA Teacher of the Year Award this fall.
She will be recognized by the Board of Trustees during the regularly scheduled Board meeting on Monday, Dec. 15.
Awarded by the Texas Council for the Social Studies, the NOVA Award is designated for teachers who have completed their first year as a classroom teacher and are currently teaching in their second or third year. The award is to honor the outstanding new teacher who contributes to the advancement of social studies education within the school and community. In order to win, the local council must choose their NOVA Teacher of the Year and submit the name to the state council. The teachers compete among all three levels of teaching—elementary, middle and high school—and only one award is given.
The award was presented to Howard, a second-year teacher, during the Texas Council for Social Studies Fall conference in San Antonio on Oct. 24-26.
The NOVA marked the third time that a Cypress Ridge teacher received the award—Howard’s honor was preceded by Allen Roberds and Michele Peterson.
“Ashley is an outstanding teacher in many ways. She has worked to develop student-centered lessons which are relevant to the students’ lives,” said Mary Smith, secondary Social Studies coordinator. “Ashley also finds time to work with another passion that she has. She is deeply involved with the Houston Holocaust Museum; she has become involved in their educator programs and this past summer traveled to Israel as part of the program. She is a real asset to Cypress-Fairbanks ISD.”

Ashley Howard, right, accepts the NOVA Teacher of the Year from presenter Mapra Gentry, elementary Social Studies coordinator. 

OfficeMax recognizes Lowery teacher
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 10, 2008

Lowery Elementary School art teacher Anna Jones was selected as the OfficeMax Teacher of the Year this fall.
A representative from OfficeMax, Mario Fuentes, surprised Jones at the school recently with a certificate and several gifts—flowers, a new office chair, a digital camera with memory cards and a box of classroom supplies to use in her art classes. Peggy Bateman, Lowery secretary to the principal, nominated Jones for the award. “Anna was so surprised. She is deserving of this award as she sees every student in our building and makes such a positive impact on their lives,”
Bateman said.

OfficeMax representative Mario Fuentes presented Lowery Elementary School art teacher Anna Jones with the OfficeMax Teacher of the Year in the fall. 

Discharge of fireworks on school property prohibited
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 9, 2008

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD reminds those celebrating the coming holidays that Texas law prohibits the discharge of fireworks on school district property.
The Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 2154, Subchapter F, Section 2154.251 (a) (1), states that a person may not “explode or ignite fireworks within 600 feet of any church, a hospital other than a veterinary hospital, an asylum, a licensed child care center, or a public or private primary or secondary school or institution of higher education unless the person receives authorization in writing from that organization.” According to Subchapter G, Section 2154.303 (c), the violation of this law “that results in property damage in an amount of less than $200 and does not result in bodily injury or death … is a Class C misdemeanor.”
The CFISD security department will patrol the district’s premises during this holiday season. Citizens who observe such violations are requested to contact the district’s security dispatcher at 281-897-4337 or the Harris County Precinct 4 Constables at 281-376-3472. Persons found violating these laws may be issued a citation from Harris County Precinct 4.
Additionally, the holiday season is also a time when some children receive gifts such as motorcycles, go-carts and skateboards. Please be aware that children and/or parents are not permitted to ride these on school property. 

Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital Donates to Local Heart Walk
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 9, 2008

Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital and the Tenet Healthcare Foundation granted the American Heart Association-Houston Division a $5,000 donation for sponsorship of the American Heart Association’s Northwest Harris County 2008 Heart Walk last month.
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital employees and volunteers helped raise donations over $5,700 in addition to the sponsorship donation and a large group participated in the walk and event festivities.
The Northwest Harris County Heart Walk’s donations and contributions grossed over $100,000. The money raised will be used to fund life-saving research and programs in the fight against heart disease and stroke.
For more information about Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital, call toll-free at 1-800-681-2733.

Staff offering screenings at the CFMCH Heart Walk Tent

Volunteer and auxiliary members participate in the Heart Walk 

Volleyball players earn all-state honors
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 8, 2008

Four CFISD volleyball players were named to the Texas Girls Coaches Association (TGCA) Class 5A All-State Volleyball Team and three players were named to the TGCA Academic All-State Team.
CFISD’s All-State representatives are Ashley Vrana, junior, Cypress Creek High School; Chiney Ogwumike, junior, Cy-Fair High School; Kendall Cleveland, senior, Cypress Falls High School; and Desiree  Elliott, junior, Cypress Woods High School.
CFISD’s Academic All-State representatives are Cypress Woods seniors Leah Whitney, Cristina Arenas and Caleigh McCorquodale. 

Coaches select all-district football team
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 5, 2008

CFISD coaches selected the All-District 15-5A Football Team on Thursday, naming five superlative awards to go with 41 first-team, 39 second-team and 31 honorable mention selections.
Cypress Ridge High School senior quarterback Russell Shepard was named the Offensive MVP and Cypress Woods High School senior quarterback Lucas DeVilliers was named Offensive Newcomer of the Year. Cypress Ridge senior linebacker Princeton Jackson was named the Defensive MVP and Jersey Village High School junior defensive lineman LaDeric Curry was named the Defensive Newcomer of the Year.
Cypress Creek High School head coach Greg McCaig was named District 15-5A Coach of the Year. 

JVHS to host Worldwide Candle Lighting
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 4, 2008

The Houston Northwest chapter of The Compassionate Friends (TCF), a support group for grieving parents, will join in the Worldwide Candle Lighting at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14 in the Jersey Village High School theater (7600 Solomon St.).
Each year TCF holds this worldwide event on the second Sunday in December. The Jersey Village Players will host the Houston Northwest chapter’s participation as it has since 1999. In addition to a candle lighting, the service will include readings and performances in honor of the children, as well as a balloon release, a message board and support time. Parents can bring a photo or remembrance of their child, which they can display on the picture table and take back home at the end of the night.
JVHS theatre director Beth Crocker has a personal connection to the organization, as a bereaved mother of two daughters.
“I am blessed to have the support of my students as I, a grieving mom, enter this holiday season without my girls,” Crocker said.
Crocker said Jersey Village drama club students earn community service hours for their involvement, and added that participants have traveled to past Worldwide Candle Lightings at JVHS from as far away as Conroe and Brenham.
According to TCF, The Worldwide Candle Lighting started in the United States in 1997 as a small Internet observance but has since swelled in numbers. The 2007 Worldwide Candle Lighting took place in 21 countries outside the United States. 

Cy-Fair girls host Australian basketball team
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted December 3, 2008

The Cy-Fair High School girls’ basketball team will host an Australian touring basketball team, the Craigieburn Eagles, on Tuesday, Dec. 9. Cy-Fair’s junior varsity team will face Craigieburn’s JV at 4 p.m. and Cy-Fair’s varsity will face Craigieburn’s varsity at 7 p.m.
Craigieburn’s meeting with Cy-Fair is part of a 21-day United States tour for the Australian team, which will face opponents in Dallas, Houston and Oklahoma before visiting Los Angeles to close out the visit.
Cy-Fair head coach Ann Roubique said the team contacted her in the spring about a potential matchup.
“I think it’s an honor. I’m not sure how or why they picked us, but when I got the e-mail I was honestly taken aback that we would be considered in the conversation,” Roubique said. “It’s a good opportunity for the coaches and the kids and the entire district. It should be a good chance for our players to make some friends abroad.”
Following the game, nine Cy-Fair players will host the 19 Craigieburn players at their homes on Tuesday night, and the players will visit the school on Wednesday morning.
Roubique said she wasn’t entirely familiar with their international visitors and the challenge they will present. Even the differences in the metric system and U.S. customary units have made preparing for Craigieburn a challenge.
“We got their roster the other day, and their heights are listed in centimeters, so we don’t really know what we’re going up against,” Roubique said jokingly. “So I don’t know if they have more of an advantage or not. We’re looking forward to it.” 

Athletes named finalists for player of the year
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 24, 2008

Three CFISD football players were named finalists for the Touchdown Club of Houston’s Player of the Year honors.
Cypress Ridge High School quarterback Russell Shepard and Cypress Falls High School quarterback Kolby Gray were named finalists for Offensive Player of the Year, and Cypress Ridge linebacker Princeton Jackson was named a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year.
The winner for each award will be named during the 28th Annual RBC Wealth Management High School Awards Dinner, to be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at the JW Marriott (5150 Westheimer).

Two football teams advance in playoffs
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 24, 2008

The Cypress Woods and Cypress Ridge high school football teams won their respective area playoff games over the weekend to advance to the next round this weekend.
Cypress Woods defeated Klein Forest 22-15 on Friday. The Wildcats (8-2) will face Dallas Skyline in the Division I Region II semifinal at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29 at Waco ISD Stadium (1401 S. New Road).
Cypress Ridge defeated Klein Oak 42-32 on Saturday. The Rams (9-2) will face Copperas Cove in the Division II Region II semifinal at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28—also at Waco ISD Stadium.
Cypress Creek finished its season after a 49-21 loss to Klein Oak on Saturday night. The Cougars (8-2) end the year as District 15-5A champions and Division II Region II area finalists

Three more athletes sign early
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 20, 2008

Three additional CFISD athletes signed with colleges during the current NCAA early signing period. Cypress Falls High School senior volleyball player Kendall Cleveland signed with the University of Arkansas during a signing party at the school on Friday, Nov. 14.
Cy-Fair High School senior swimmers Kaelee Mader and Hudson Rains signed with Louisiana State University and North Carolina State University, respectively, during a signing party at the school on Wednesday, Nov.20.

Cook MS named ‘No Place for Hate’
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 19, 2008

Cook Middle School has been named a “No Place for Hate” school for 2008 by the Anti-Defamation League, and will be recognized during a banner presentation at the school (9111 Wheatland Dr.) on Friday.
The “No Place for Hate” program is sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), promoting a community of respect in schools, businesses and communities. The program empowers participants to promote respect for individuals and group differences while challenging prejudice and bigotry.
To achieve the recognition, applicants were required to fulfill three schoolwide activities that promote diversity, submit a resolution of respect signed by participants and provide a coalition of teachers, parents and students who supported the efforts planned throughout the year.
Some of Cook’s anti-hate efforts began in October 2007, when it hosted “Rachel’s Challenge,” a non-violence program based on the life and diaries of Columbine school shooting victim Rachel Scott.
Following that presentation, the school’s Diversity Group and Friends of Rachel carried out several school-wide activities, including starting a Chain Reaction Kindness chain, having a Mix-It-Up at Lunch Day where students sat with other people besides their friends, listening to a guest speaker, and doing good deeds for their community.
Every morning since the Rachel’s Challenge Assembly, Cook principal Sherma Duck has read announcements from teachers praising students for carrying out a Rachel’s Challenge act of kindness. She closes her announcements with this challenge to Cook students: “Do something kind for someone else to make their day better.”
Friday’s banner presentation will be held during the three lunch periods at Cook, and will feature an introduction by Anti-Defamation League representative Larry Ting. 

District seeks boundary input for Swenke, Smith
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 19, 2008

CFISD’s initial attendance boundary plans for both Swenke Elementary School and Smith Middle School have been placed on the district website for public input.
Swenke Elementary School will be located at Fairfield Place Drive and Schiel Road in the Fairfield neighborhood, and Smith Middle School will be located at Fry Road and Cypress North Houston. Both schools will open in the 2009-2010 school year.
The district administration has been working with a demographic consultant to develop plans for the boundaries, and the Board of Trustees is anticipated to make final boundary decisions during the regularly scheduled board meeting on Jan. 20, 2009.
To provide written input regarding these boundary options, please visit the district’s website at www.cfisd.net and look under “District News.” All written comments will be copied and sent to the Board of Trustees.
CFISD will not reply to the anonymous submissions. For questions about the boundary process, send an e-mail to blanca.cooper@cfisd.net.

Art teacher published in magazine
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 19, 2008

Langham Creek High School art teacher Sandi Pippin received the opportunity to write the cover story for the November issue of Arts & Activities magazine, the nation’s oldest art education publication.
Pippin wrote the story, entitled “Printmaking: A Unit,” while she was at Labay Middle School last year. The article includes step-by-step instructions on how to teach printmaking based on her personal classroom instruction.
The 35-year teaching veteran said she was influenced by her college art adviser, who also previously wrote articles for Arts & Activities.
“Printmaking: A Unit” is Pippin’s sixth published article, and the first cover story. She has also helped fellow art teachers within the district by hosting staff development workshops and fielding numerous phone calls and emails to assist with specific art-related objectives.
“I am always happy when the articles I have written have been published,” she said. “If my experiences with students can make another teacher's life easier, then I am thrilled!”

Three teams advance in football playoffs
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 14, 2008

Three CFISD football teams won their Region II-5A bi-district playoff games over the weekend and will play in their respective area playoffs on Friday and Saturday.
Cypress Creek High School defeated Cedar Park, 48-42, on Saturday. The Cougars (8-1) will face Klein Oak at 6 p.m. on Saturday at the Berry Center.
Cypress Woods High School slid past Georgetown, 21-20, on Saturday. The Wildcats (7-2) will meet Klein Forest at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at Klein Memorial Stadium (16715 Stuebner Airline Road) in Spring.
Cypress Ridge High School beat Round Rock, 26-22, on Friday. The Rams (8-2) will clash with Lufkin at 5 p.m. on Saturday at Kyle Field (198 Joe Routt Blvd.) in College Station.
Langham Creek High School finished its season with a 34-7 defeat to Round Rock Stony Point on Friday. The Lobos end the year with a 3-7 mark as the fourth-place team in District 15-5A and bi-district finalists.

Mahoney finishes 23rd at state meet
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 14, 2008

Cypress Woods High School senior Melissa Mahoney placed 23rd out of 110 runners in the Class 5A Girls race of the UIL Cross Country State Championships, held Saturday at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock.
Mahoney finished the two-mile race in 11:38.81, at a pace of 5:49 per mile.
“She did very well,” said Greg Zarate, head girls cross country coach at Cypress Woods. “She has had an outstanding senior season and we will now regroup and get ready for the upcoming track season.”

Bella Nova Day Spa and Retreat Receives National Award from Industry Magazine
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 14, 2008

In December 2008, Bella Nova Day Spa and Retreat will receive the National Award for “Rising Star” from national industry magazine DAYSPA Magazine. Nominations were accepted from all over the United States. DAYSPA magazine gives out national award every December for 12 different categories ranging from “Rising Star” to “Outstanding Employer” This year’s Top Honors competition was tough. The requirements for the nomination were “an individual with less than 5 years of experience as a Spa/Salon who has exhibited outstanding business acumen and industry understanding.”
Owner Julie Puccio started Bella Nova Spa in October of 2006. She wanted to pass on the feeling of renewal and replenishment she had when she visited a spa. Her mission statement says it all: To provide the very best experience every time with every customer. To refresh, renew and recharge the human body and spirit through healing touch and concern for every individual that passes through our door.” Bella Nova strives to meet that expectation daily. Bella Nova Day Spa was also awarded with top honors from Citysearch for Massage and Facial in 2008.

Villamagna Named Scholar Athlete Runner-Up
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 14, 2008

Cypress Woods High School senior football player Anthony Villamagna was named runner-up for the Touchdown Club of Houston Scholar-Athlete of the Year during a luncheon on Wednesday at the J.W. Marriott.
Among a pool of 25 finalists, Villamagna, a defensive tackle, finished second in voting only to Strake Jesuit’s Charles Provenzano. He received a $1,250 scholarship along with the honor.   

Wal-Mart names Cole Teacher of the Year
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 1, 2008

The Cypress Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market No. 3506 named Hamilton Middle School Life Skills teacher Terri Cole its Teacher of the Year recipient during a presentation at the school on Nov. 7Cole was nominated for the award by the parent of a former student and selected by a committee of store associates.
“Terri is a tremendous and tireless asset to the special needs children and their parents in her classroom,” said the parent, in an anonymous nomination.
Wal-Mart manager Miriam Crosby presented Cole with a $100 Wal-Mart gift certificate to purchase supplies for her classroom. The school received an additional $1,000 grant in her honor.
Cole joins the other local winners in a contest selecting Texas’ Teacher of the Year.  The statewide winner will then join selections from 49 other states and Puerto Rico in the national contest.

Northwest Harris County Habitat for Humanity awarded top $15,000 prize in national UR Votes Count
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 14, 2008

In the summer of 2008, General Growth Properties (GGP), owners of Willowbrook Mall, launched UR Votes Count, a nationwide mock presidential election created to give teens the chance to voice their opinions on important nationwide issues – as well as their choice for president of the United States. The event was hosted at 150 malls throughout the country, attended by 191,000 shoppers and polled 144,000 teens. Illinois Senator Barack Obama won by an overwhelming 62 percent.
As part of UR Votes Count, teens were also asked to vote for a national charity they most wanted to help. Habitat for Humanity (HFH) received 41 percent of the vote. The shopping center that generated the most total votes from teens was awarded $15,000 to be donated to the local HFH affiliate.
On Friday, November 7, Willowbrook Mall was notified that Northwest Harris County Habitat for Humanity was to be the recipient of the $15,000 national prize because the northwest Houston shopping center had more teens voting than any other GGP mall in the country.
“What a fantastic surprise!” says Rachael Wright, Development Director for HFH-Northwest Harris County. “The $15,000 donation will be used to support Habitat NWHC’s corporate build, a home paid for and built by local businesses and corporations, covering 1/3 of the construction costs of this home. This home will be constructed for a family currently living in poverty housing right here in Northwest Harris County. A big thanks to both GGP and Willowbrook Mall for their continuous support of Habitat NWHC.”

New Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is Equipped to Care for Cy-Fair’s Special Deliveries
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 14, 2008

The birth of a child is one of the most exciting times of parents’ lives. While most parents do everything they can to ensure their child is born healthy, problems sometimes arise that require a newborn to remain hospitalized longer than expected. That’s where the Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the Women’s Health Center at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital comes in.
“The expansion of our level III neonatal intensive care unit was an important project for the hospital and for the community,” explains Tung Giep, MD, director of the Neonatology Department at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital. “We want our neighbors to have ready access to medical center style health care close to home during this special time in their lives.”
The NICU is the area of the hospital where sick babies receive specialized treatment for infections, birth defects, breathing difficulties, growth restriction and maternal health problems. In addition to extremely premature and low-birth-weight babies, sicker full-term babies in the NICU may be treated for a variety of conditions, including anemia, jaundice, seizures, low blood sugar, brain bleeds, heart problems, or breathing difficulties.
Being completed this month, the new NICU features fifteen Level III nursery beds. The unit is a controlled access department designed to ensure the safety and privacy of newborn patients and their families.
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital received the 2008/2009 HealthGrades Maternity Care Excellence Award™ and is the only hospital in northwest Houston to receive a five-star rating for clinical excellence in maternity care five years in a row by HealthGrades, a leading independent health care ratings company.
For more information on the maternity services at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital, call 1-800-681-2733.

Athletes Sign Early with Colleges
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 13, 2008

Five Cypress-Fairbanks ISD senior athletes signed national letters of intent on Wednesday—the first day of the fall early signing period—to play on the collegiate level next season.
Cypress Ridge High School senior baseball player Chris Fritts inks with the University of Tennessee during the first day of the early signing period on Wednesday afternoon.
Langham Creek High School senior swimmer Andrew Keily signs a national letter of intent to Ohio State on Wednesday morning.
Jersey Village High School senior volleyball player Ally Judkins signs with LSU on Wednesday afternoon.
Cypress Springs High School senior basketball player Erik Williams signs with the Marquette Golden Eagle program on Wednesday evening.
Cypress Falls High School senior softball player Brittany Taylor signs a national letter of intent to play for the University of North Texas in 2009-2010. 

Cy Woods Wins, Heads to Regional Semis
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 12, 2008

The Cypress Woods High School volleyball team defeated Round Rock Westwood in five games (25-19, 25-19, 20-25, 21-25, 15-10) on Tuesday in the Region 2-5A quarterfinal, thus qualifying for this weekend’s regional tournament.
The Wildcats will face Lake Highlands in the regional semifinals at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 14 at Johnson Coliseum (800 Bowers Blvd.) on the Sam Houston State University campus in Huntsville.
The winner will face the winner of A&M Consolidated and Round Rock in the Region 2 final at 6 p.m. on Saturday at Johnson Coliseum.
 

Cy Springs STARS Robotics Team Wins Tournament
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 12, 2008

Cypress Springs High School students in the Science, Technology, Aerospace and Robotics Society (STARS) of Cypress won the championship at the 5-Star Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology (BEST) Robotics tournament in Conroe last weekend.
With the win, the STARS qualified for the Frontier Trails BEST Game Day Regional tournament, to be held on Dec. 6 in Fort Smith, Ark.
At the 5-Star tournament, the team’s robot entry received the “Most Robust” award as a tribute to its design and fabrication. “After eight years of competitive robotics, this is the first year that one of our teams has captured a championship,” Coach Sam N. Saenz said. “This is a result of many students and teachers who have worked to develop the competitive spirit and a legacy. That legacy is the inspiration and development of brainstorming and a cooperative effort among the team members. This victory is truly a crowning achievement for the team, science department, our school and our district in the realm of science and technology education.”
BEST Robotics Inc. is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization whose mission is to inspire students to pursue careers in engineering, science and technology through participation in a sports-like, science and engineering-based robotics competition. BEST competitions feature a robotics game based upon an annual theme in which four teams compete simultaneously in a series of three-minute, round-robin matches.
 

Goodson teacher named ‘Rising Star’ by OSU
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 11, 2008

Goodson Middle School physical education and health teacher John Griffin was presented the Oklahoma State University College of Education’s 2008 Rising Star Award Friday at the 35th annual COE Scholarship and Awards Banquet in Stillwater, Oklahoma.
The Rising Star Award annually recognizes College of Education alumni whose lives and achievements demonstrate promise of future leadership and bring distinction to the college. The award is designated for alumni who have received their bachelor’s degree within the last 10 years.
Griffin earned his bachelor of science degree in physical education/health from OSU in 1999, and has 10 years of experience teaching in Texas and Oklahoma. He is the founder and coordinator of the Cypress-Fairbanks Physical Education Conference, held annually for all of the district’s physical educators. He has been a professional development presenter on a number of topics, including tobacco prevention.
In addition to his classroom duties at Goodson, Griffin serves as an assistant football, track and cross country coach and a Fellowship of Christian Athletes Huddle Coach. He is also an assistant varsity and junior varsity girls basketball coach at Cypress Creek High School.

Cy-Woods Volleyball Moves on to Quarterfinals
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 10, 2008

The Cypress Woods High School volleyball team advanced to the Region II-5A quarterfinals by defeating The Woodlands College Park in four games, 25-20, 25-15, 22-25, 25-23 in the area round on Thursday.
Cypress Woods will face Round Rock Westwood High School at G. Rollie White Coliseum on the Texas A&M campus in College Station on Tuesday at 8 p.m.
Cy-Fair finished its season with a four-game loss to The Woodlands on Friday, 19-25, 25-19, 21-25, 23-25. The Bobcats end their season as co-champions in District 15-5A and area playoff qualifiers.

“Spotlight” Teachers Receive Red-Carpet Treatment at Gala Event
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 6, 2008

Excitement and drama filled the air as 74 Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District teachers were cheered by student “fans” from their home schools as they each walked the red carpet Oct. 23.
These outstanding “Spotlight Teachers” were the stars of the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation’s 11th annual Salute to the Stars Gala held at the Richard E. Berry Educational Support Center. One teacher from each Cy-Fair school was “nominated” for the honor by their campus principal and administrative team.
CFEF stages the event each year to honor Spotlight Teachers, and to raise funds for Cy-Fair ISD’s Instructional Excellence Grant program and CFEF’s student scholarship program. 
The 2008 event brought in over $160,000 for those two worthy causes.
“These donations are critical to the Cypress-Fairbanks School District,” said Pam Wells, Cy-Fair ISD’s associate superintendent for facilities, planning and community relations.  “In this time of serious financial constraints brought on by the Texas Legislature’s method of financing public schools, this money helps to provide needed professional development to enhance teacher excellence which benefits all of our students.”
The Cy-Fair ISD school board also saluted the Spotlight Teachers – from 47 elementary schools, 23 secondary schools and four special programs facilities – at a special meeting in May.
Planning is already underway for CFEF’s 2009 powerhouse fund-raising events. Contact Marie Holmes for information about underwriting and sponsorships opportunities at 832-381-2333, or e-mail marie@thecfef.org

Cy Woods selected to beta test programming environment
Cy-Fair - Cypress, Texas News
Posted November 6, 2008

Cypress Woods High School was selected by Carnegie Mellon University to beta-test the new computer programming environment, Alice 3.0.
Alice 3.0 is the new version of Alice that will be released in 2009.
Alice is a teaching tool designed to be a student's first exposure to object-oriented programming, allowing students to learn fundamental programming concepts in the context of creating animated movies and simple video games.
Cypress Woods was one of only three U.S. high schools chosen from 90 applicants to beta-test the product. Students in the school’s computer programming classes will provide feedback to the developers at Carnegie Mellon to refine the latest version before it becomes available nationwide.
Stacey Armstrong, computer science teacher at Cypress Woods, said Alice 3.0 will primarily be used in his CS1K course, among others. He said the school uses the programming environment because it helps make computer science more widely accessible—and has been especially successful in recruiting females due its social interactive nature and visual appeal.
“Only a handful of colleges and high schools get this opportunity,” Armstrong said. “It is quite an honor to work with CMU on any project, but an even bigger honor to work with them on Alice 3.0.”