Tech for Vets and a Memorial Day Tribute

April 18 2012

Memorial Day falls on May 28 this year, and one way to honor the sacrifice of our fallen military men and women is to assist those who are coming home.

Jason Rorie was an Information System Technician in the United States Navy, and when he reentered civilian life it was with a mission in mind. “I knew I could help my fellow returning veterans through technology, and along with Gary Moore founded the nonprofit organization Tech For Vets,” says Rorie. Moore and Rorie served in the Navy together, and with pride in their service identified a way to reach out through practical, tangible means. Honor, loyalty, respect, selfless service, and integrity are the core values of the organization.

As a technology consultant, Rorie has seen many companies recycle or destroy old, but functional, computers and other devices. From that observation, an idea was born last year and the 501c3 was formed by veterans, specifically for veterans. Tech For Vets provides free, refurbished computers to deserving men and women with the motto, “Helping Those Who Have Served Their Country.”

The goal is to assist veterans in finding a better life through access to computers. Many face financial hardships, devastating injuries and a tough job market. Getting computers into the hands of former military men and women can make a huge difference in their quality of life. Computers serve an important role by providing opportunities for veterans to job hunt or find a place to live. It’s also a necessary tool if a veteran has plans to go back to school. Tech For Vets has a mission to provide needy veterans, especially those who have been wounded or are in homeless shelters or jobless, with an opportunity to build a brighter future. “Helping the men and women who have served this country is such a worthwhile venture. Their gratitude speaks volumes as to who they are,” says Rorie.

One recipient of a refurbished computer is a young veteran who was wounded while serving in the Army during the Global War on Terrorism. At just 33-years-old he was collecting disability and requested a laptop to search for a job and research veteran benefits. Another wrote:

“My new computer is already a great help in my job search. I go to job fairs and 25% of the exhibitors are real employers and they always say “Apply online”. Now I can fill out those half hour to two hour long compatibility quizzes from home instead of at the library or work center. With free available online software I can even tune my resume and email it on a one by one basis. Thank you again!” – Julie Van Dyck

The organization is located at Park 10 and accepts donations from companies near and far. Katy businesses and families are invited to bring their old computers and laptops to the center or call for a pick up. These donations are vitally important, and without them the veterans must wait until a computer can be refurbished and shipped. Tech For Vets also used the funds raised from their successful FundaGeek campaign to pay for repair parts, to purchase refurbished laptop and desktop systems, and to ship them where they are needed. “Shipping costs are astronomical, especially when we send computers across the country,” says Rorie. “All donations are tax-deductible and very much appreciated as we find ways to meet the needs of veterans who seek technology.”

If you are a military veteran and need assistance with getting computer devices, please contact Tech for Vets.  16350 Park Ten Place, Suite 213 Houston, TX 77084 281-653-7726 info@techforvets.org www.techforvets.org

Caption: Tech for Vets Director Jason Rorie (right) accepts a donation from local business owner Charles Mazzini.

News | No Comments »

Raising Good Teens in an Internet World

April 18 2012

In this day and age of Internet use we often hear precautionary tales played out in the media — stories that deeply affect how we, as parents, should respond in a world dominated by the all-pervasive Internet. While the Internet is a useful tool allowing for networking, information gathering and even e-commerce, there are downsides. The misuse of unsecure websites, social media and even texting have made headlines, worrying us all. One weak moment, one indiscretion, one lapse in judgment . . . our sons and daughters can pay dearly for succumbing to online peer pressure, phishing schemes and evil geniuses who pray on young Internet users. Cyber-stalking and cyber-bullying are threats, as is online targeting by predators. For this reason, we went to an Internet expert for answers.

Child filters

“Many parents find themselves less knowledgeable about computer use than their children,” says Charles Mazzini, owner of Hyperlinks Media. “Today’s children exist in a computer-savvy world. They cut their teeth on a keyboard and learn online from their classrooms. Technology is a part of who they are, yet they are still just children, and even teens have limited concepts about online danger, stalking, etc. As they surf the Internet they may stumble upon objectionable images and content. They may be lured into behaviors that violate everything they’ve been taught. They may get caught up in the moment.”

What’s a parent to do? The answer: Be vigilant. “Some parents take advantage of various child filters, either from their own computer software or Internet service, or filtering packages they can purchase,” says Mazzini. “That’s always a good option, but for older tweens and teens who have access to iPhones, iPads and friend’s computers, it falls to the parent to educate, guide and set rules. It isn’t always easy, especially when your child is more technically sophisticated than you. But communication and real-life examples of Internet misuse can be powerful deterrents to potential problems.”

Rules Mazzini is a believer in open and honest communication. “Have a dialogue with your sons and daughters. Explain what is and isn’t acceptable behavior, and why a thoughtless gaffe online or a questionable post on Facebook can haunt them far into their future,” he says. “Constantly enforce rules by appealing to your child’s core ethics and values. Encourage them to resist temptations and follow the Golden Rule. It isn’t easy. Cyber-bullying is an ongoing issue. Facebook, Twitter and Tumblir are popular online communities but can lead to inappropriate content and images, so guidance is the key. Explain that your child’s reputation online is just as valuable as their reputation in school and church. It may go against the current social climate of “anything goes,” but endeavor to teach your children that future employers can harvest a great deal of online commentary and make decisions to hire and fire based on what they find,” cautions Mazzini.

Passwords and Access 

Is it appropriate to ask for your child’s password and login information in order to occasionally “pop in” to view online interactions? “Yes,” says Mazzini. “It is definitely appropriate for minors to be guided, despite those (including some online communities) who protest parental oversight. Interfacing is a privilege, not a right. Not everyone in the world has the best interests of your child at heart—and that’s where you come in.” Teachable moments about civil discourse, reputation, and values often result when parents become involved. Shaping children into responsible online citizens is the goal, despite social and peer pressure.

Hacking

Online commerce is the wave of the future. Kids want to buy online due to the creative marketing of companies and brilliant sales campaigns that target their demographic. “From eBay to cosmetics to magazines, the offerings are dazzling,” says Mazzini. “But not everyone who wants a piece of your child’s allowance (which may end up on your credit card) has e-commerce credentialing. To defeat hackers who harvest and misuse financial data, it is wise to transact only on websites offering SSL Security (https) and PCI compliance. Make sure you see the “active” seals on a website, and teach your teens to do the same. If you are not sure of their security and the site also offers PayPal, Google or Yahoo checkout, always opt to pay through those.”

Privacy Policy

Also look for an “active” privacy policy seal on the website before entering your information. “California, for instance, requires businesses to carry these seals if they capture any type of information on their websites,” says Mazzini. “But not every state follows suit. For this reason, we refer you to www.hyperlinkswebsites.com/ecommerce/privacy-policy-generator.php. Information on privacy policies are explained. Another great resource is www.truste.com/consumer-privacy/personal-privacy-tips.”

The Guide

Log on to www.hyperlinkswebsites.com/internet-safety.php for a free easy-reference guide to Internet protocol. “We list resources for parents and those who use computers in their daily lives,” says Mazzini. “This guide offers practical insights that can make a difference in a world fueled by Internet commerce. Interacting with safety and savvy is the goal!”

Charles Mazzini is a Katy businessman and owner of Hyperlinks Media, a company specializing in website development, multimedia, editorial and marketing. He and his team have been serving businesses locally and across the nation for 14 years. 

News | No Comments »

Pastor Profile: Rev. Robert Crutchfield

April 18 2012

Reverend Robert A. Crutchfield was ordained by St. Luke’s Evangelical Christian Ministries in 1998. He founded Kingdom Relationship Ministries that same year, endeavoring to help people use their faith to build their relationships. From there he has worked with the first responder community in chaplaincy roles, impacting the lives of those who serve. Currently he is chief chaplain at Christ 4 Responders, a member of the advisory board at Defense of Houston, and founding pastor at Compassion Church of Katy.

Planting and a Prayer

“We’ve been organizing for a year,” says Crutchfield of Compassion Church. “We are all about the priesthood of the believer, starting with premise that all have fallen short and no one is perfect. So our approach is to meet people where they are and apply Biblical principles to get them to where they need to be.” For instance, Crutchfield believes that some of the best alcohol counselors are recovering alcoholics who have actually experienced the journey. His new church is in the planting phase as seed money is raised and a meeting place is located. “We are a new kind of church, specifically ministering to those experiencing crisis. Our mission is to empower our members to minister as living vessels of Christ’s compassion, and starting from nothing we are working to build an active, Christ-loving, life-changing kind of church right here in our own home town.” He invites the community to get involved as the excitement builds.

2011 was also a remarkable year for Crutchfield’s now-famous “The First Responder’s Prayer.” Christian Author Loree Lough used Crutchfield’s prayer in her novel “From Ashes to Honor.” The book follows NYPD officer Austin Finley, who lost both his job and his brother after the terrorist attacks of 9-11. Crutchfield wrote the prayer just prior to being elected as Katy Fire Department Chaplain in 2008, and as the author researched the premise of her book she located the prayer and cited it in her author’s notes as well and referencing it in the body of the novel.

“This little prayer has appeared on several websites, and station walls since I wrote it, and I’m honored that it also appears in Ms. Lough’s book,” says Crutchfield.

A Lifetime of Service

“I never did like being on the sidelines in times of emergency,” says Crutchfield, who also previously served four years as chaplain-general of the Order of St. Isidore of Seville. In addition, he served with Red Cross Disaster Services in the early 80s and later in the Military Police Corps -Texas State Guard, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. “It’s an honor to serve and impact the lives of others,” he says, adding, “We all have opportunities to help one another, some right at the doorstep of church.”

Always an active member of his community he served for several years as vice-president of the Recreation Board for the City of Galena Park, Texas (his hometown). From 1992-1994 he was chairman of the Public Relations Committee of the Harris County (Texas) Republican Party. From 1994-1996 he served as chairman of the Republican Party for the Sixth State Senate District. He has also served on numerous other boards and committees.

A Loving Family at Home and at KCM 

Crutchfield’s wife, Leslie Karen Hunt-Crutchfield, is retired from The Katy Times and the couple have two daughters and five beloved grandchildren. He is also a Katy Christian Magazine columnist. Check out his hospice article in this edition.

Find out more about Compassion Church of Katy at their new website which is still partially under construction — www.compassionchurchkaty.org. You can find them on Facebook and also visit www.christ4responders.org.

News | No Comments »

Good “Clean” Fun!

April 18 2012

Looking for pulse-pounding adventure for your family or organization? Challenging fields for tournament level players and recball areas for big group gatherings await at Tank’s Paintball Park. The activities are designed to offer good “clean” fun for those who enjoy paintball at any level. For some, it’s a recreational activity and for others it’s a sport. But everyone can agree that paintball is adrenaline-filled adventure and a departure from the ordinary.

Named after the owner — John “Tank” Tankersley — Tank’s Paintball Park is a favorite destination of youth groups in and around Katy. Why? Because Tankersley supports the Christian community through church specials. “Bring us your church bulletin and your entry is waived for that day,” says Tankersley. You just need to buy paint, so it’s a great deal!” He also offers great pricing for youth groups to try out the game.

Tankersley has been a part of Katy for 15 years. His park is located at Westgreen just past Kingsland and is a premiere paintball facility, because he built it as only a paintball enthusiast could. “I started playing in 1990 regularly with friends and then ventured into the competition side of the game. Before long  I was hooked on the sport,” says Tankersley. “The Houston area at that time only had 2 fields operating as weekend businesses, so the idea to build my own field slowly formed. I partnered with several guys, tested the waters, learned the business ropes, took a break, then opened my own field in Houston and relocated it to Katy and have not looked back.”

Tankersley loves the daily adventures and the many players, parties and friends who visit. “My wife Kellie has been by my side during the growth of TANKS. She handles back office matters for all our companies and operates our new remote control track KATY RC.” says Tankersley. “I have a 12-year-old daughter, Zoey, who helps in the store and with birthday parties on weekends. She’ll be an excellent owner one day.” Lilly is Tankersley’s 5-year-old. “She is awesome for morale and keeps all the staff on their toes. I could not have come this far without the help and support of my family and friends.”

Tankersley has always worked with youth groups and finds it is a great team-building sport that brings out the RAMBO in everyone. “it helps build friendships and develops trust among team mates. Some entered feeling scared of the game, but once they jump in and play they are hooked,” says Tankersley. “I can only say that you will feel the rush of the game and it will leave you with memories for quite awhile.”

The fields and staging areas are designed with safety in mind, while providing the ultimate playing experience. A pro shop, convenience store and snow cone stand are on the premises, as well as indoor restroom facilities for men and women. Tanks Paintball Park was built for parties, from birthdays to corporate events. As Tankersley proudly states, “We’ve worked hard to earn the reputation as the most challenging and comfortable paintball facility in the Houston area.”

Tank’s Paintball Park is located at 899 Westgreen Blvd,, Katy, TX 77450-5871. Call them at 281-492-2301 or visit www.tankspaintball.com.

News | No Comments »

Christian Business Profile: Dr. Joey Hall of Katy Family Dentists

April 18 2012

Dr. Joey Hall is an active dentist, dad and deacon in the community. He and his family are members of Kingsland Baptist Church. Being a deacon gives him an opportunity to serve his church family and the people of Katy. “Christ called us to be servants first. What’s important is the impact we can make helping others,” says Hall, who puts this philosophy into practice . . . at his practice — Katy Family Dentists.

As a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and a member of the American Dental Association, he and his team are committed to providing the best in dental care in a relaxed atmosphere. Part of serving a community’s dental needs requires keeping up with the constant progress of technology. The techniques, innovations, safety and successful treatment in all areas of Dentistry is continuously evolving. Therefore, Dr. Hall pursues continuing education through the AGD and other organizations. The AGD is an organization of over 35,000 Dentists. He recently received their Fellowship Award by completing more than 500 hours of education and passing a comprehensive written exam.

Caring for his patent’s oral health is a mission — from cleanings to gum care to invisalign. But Hall has much more invested in his patient’s health: His blog addresses surprising insights linking oral health and overall wellness or disease. His practice embraces cutting edge technology and is completely digital.

Dr. Hall grew up in Sugar Land, attended Texas A&M University, and remained an Aggie even while completing his dental training at the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston. His own kids are Aggies, as well. Katie is 21 and a senior, son Corey is 18 and a freshman, and daughter Bailey attends Taylor High School. Dentistry runs in the family, and Dr. Hall worked with his father in their Galleria-area family practice for ten years after graduation. Then he opened a second office in the Katy community where he lives with his wife of 25 years, Brenda, and their children. He practices full time in Katy and is also involved in local dental organizations and study clubs.

Katy Family Dentists is located a t21703 Kingsland Blvd., Suite 104, Katy, TX 77450. Phone Dr. Hall at 281-398-3432 and visit his website at www.katyfamilydentists.com/281-398-3432.

News | No Comments »

A Special Mom Becomes An Author

April 18 2012

We thought it would be especially appropriate to feature T. Denise Clary for our Mother’s Day issue. This wife, mother, attorney, Realtor and author has a goal built on faith: To write and promote Christian children’s literature.

Clary is a California native who has traveled the world and grew up in the Middle East as a little girl (ages three to eight). After practicing law for ten years, she earned her real estate license and eventually became an author. She is a Fort Bend County resident and wife and proud mother of three children, ages 2, 11, and 14.

A childhood talent 

Even as a child, Clary had a passion for writing short stories and poems and has many fond memories of creating and drawing. Hers was the only bedroom with a walk-in closet, and it felt magical to create in that space. She entered her first school writing competition at age nine and was challenged to write and illustrate her very own book. “I was so heart broken when I didn’t win, and ironically, I remember the storyline of the winning book, but can’t remember the storyline of the book I wrote. No wonder I didn’t win!” quips Clary. She certainly didn’t let it stop her.

She has written six Christian children’s books, four of which are in publication as an eBook in the Kindle store including: Vinny Vain Liked to Complain, Mr. Pitt & Lickety’s Split, My Forgivefullness, and Nitti Gritti Smitty. Each focuses on ethics, character and Christian values, encouraging young readers to do the right thing.

Inspiration  

Clary was raised in a Christian household and hales from from a long line of spiritually strong Christian women. “I have many fond memories of my grandma Daisy reading and teaching us grandkids Bible passages, while storytelling of her own life experiences,” says Clary. She also remembers living in Saudi Arabia and attending “town meetings” because it was against the law to attend “church” in that country. It had to be kept secret.

Clary grew up attending several different church denominations. “What I learned is that different Christian denominations may look and dress differently, have varying church policies, and even worship and praise differently,” says Clary. “But they all have one common thread . . . that is, proclaiming Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior and that the Bible IS the Word of God. This proclamation is what I follow to guide my life today and raise my children.” Clary and her family attend Grace Fellowship Church of Katy.

The summer of 2007 changed everything for soon-to-be-author Clary. “I was one month out of closing my law practice. For nine years I was in the legal world, but now I found myself at home. The first month as a quasi stay-at-home mom I found myself cooking, cleaning, picking up kids from carpool . . . and quite BORED to death. I had been so busy for nearly nine years, and now I just found myself at home on the verge of an anxiety attack. I didn’t know what to do with myself.” She remembers sitting at my computer one night and staring at it blankly. She checked her email for the 100th time that day and noticed a new email from a friend regarding book publishing.

Asking the Lord

“I remember saying out loud, “Huh, wouldn’t it be interesting to write a children’s book . . . a Christian children’s book!” says Clary. “Although I hadn’t written stories since I was a child (in my ‘magically creative’ closet), the desire to write children’s stories never went away. I really desired to write something on a more positive level for my children. I remember asking and praying to the Lord that if He would just give me some words . . . stories . . . I would write them down and go from there.” Thus were born books that uplift, guide and bless the children who read them.

God is so faithful to answer our pleas, and Clary’s head was FILLED with many words and story ideas after that initial sleepless night. Her books came to life. “Out of the six books I’d written, four were published as eBooks and placed for sale on Amazon. I’m happy to report that the four books have been doing fairly well in their short publishing life. At one point, one of my books rose as high in rank to the #4 slot in the ‘Inspirational” category on Amazon!!”  Heaven is For Real (hardcover & eBook), published by Thomas Nelson and, The Beginner’s Bible published by Harper Collins, took the #1 to #3 slots respectively. Interestingly, a book by Max Lucado was ranked in the #5 slot. “To say that one of my titles was right behind those popular books, and close in rank to one of Lucado’s books, is truly a gift from God! I can only hope and pray that the momentum continues,” exclaims the author.

We wish this multi-talented mom a very happy Mother’s Day and also thank her for her work on behalf of Christian children’s literature.

Learn more about Clary and her wonderful children’s books at tdeniseclarybooks.blogspot.com or  find her out on Facebook at facebook.com/TDClaryBooks. You can also follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/TDeniseClary. 

News | No Comments »

Reggie Kerr: The Hands and Feet of Jesus

February 13 2012

Reggie Kerr is a remarkable woman of faith. She loves the song “Amazing Grace” because it reflects her own life story. “I was once very lost, and through God’s amazing grace He redeemed a “wretch like me” — compelling me to share my testimony and encourage others to trust God, find their faith and hold on,” says Kerr.

As a child her life was more than difficult. Her mother died from a brain tumor when Kerr was just five. Raised by a father who suffered the affects of alcoholism, drug use and poor decision-making, she was often left completely unsupervised to fend for herself. By age nine she was dabbling in drugs and at 12 was dropped off at her grandmother’s home, never to see her father again. At 15 she decided to live on her own, staying in school but not long enough to graduate. The world beckoned and she found work in the world of bars and clubs.

“I lost many years between my teens and into my late 30s, living fast, running hard and trying to keep ahead of life and survive. I remember feeling like I had no one to fall back on and used bars and alcohol as my comfort. As you will see in my testimony, it was not an easy start, but it’s how you finish that really matters!” says Kerr. “Without God’s divine intervention I would not be here today, and He has delivered me into grace from a hopeless state of mind and body.”

Kerr moved in with a loving aunt and uncle in Austin. She went back to AA, joined a local church, and began to turn her life around. At 33 she acquired her real estate license and began working in property management. “I had little money, an old car, and no credit—but I had a dream to return home to Houston.” After a fews years she did just that and worked hard in the real estate market. She began attending church regularly and saw what a relationship with Jesus Christ meant. “I was still periodically falling in and out of the AA program, and that wreaked havoc with my life. But I held on to my faith that I could overcome the alcohol addiction through strength from Jesus. Then in 2005 I went to the grand opening of the new Lakewood Church and my life changed—that night I found a church home.”

Kerr has been sober for many years and supports her local AA community, but she gives the ultimate praise for her recovery to Jesus Christ, the true healer. In 2008 she felt God’s call to pursue a more intense study of the Word and a calling into ministry. She left real estate to do just that. “It was a leap of faith for me, but I believe God is guiding me every step of the way on this path,” says Kerr.  In 2011 she founded Serenity International Ministries and Serenity TV, feeling God was calling her to “step out of the boat in faith.”

Her life today is all about being the hands and feet of Jesus. As a minister, chaplain, crisis responder and talk show host she is dedicated to serving others through Serenity International Ministries. SIM serves people both locally and internationally with prayer, outreach, or other forms of spiritual support. STV was established to bring the testimonies of believers and overcomers to a world wide audience.

“Serenity International Ministries encourages Christians to influence every aspect of the world around us through sharing our testimonies and by being examples of Christ through our lifestyles,” says Kerr. We want to bring understanding of who Jesus is, what He has done, and what He can do in our lives. We know that as believers we are “Ambassadors for Christ” and are called to demonstrate the love of Jesus in all that we do,” says Kerr.

Find out more about Reggie Kerr and Serenity International Ministries at: www.SerenityIM.org, www.SerenityTV.cc, www.facebook.com/SERENITYIM, www.twitter.com/SerenityTV, or serenityim.blogspot.com.

News | No Comments »

Pastor Profile: Roy Meadows of Westland Baptist Church

February 13 2012

In 1984, a visionary group of believers began seeking ways to reach people in Katy and West Houston. Pastor Roy Meadows was called in 1988 as the first dedicated pastor to follow this dream. Initially, a tiny group of 38 Christ-followers worshiped in a rented Mexican Restaurant. Attendance grew by leaps and bounds, and in 2001 the congregation built a beautiful 33,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility on a 16 acre campus located on the Grand Parkway.

As senior pastor, Meadows has watched Westland Baptist bloom into an active faith community. There is a wonderful vibrancy at the church. Mens’, women’s, children’s, and senior’s ministries abound, as well as adult Bible fellowship classes, outreach and worship arts. But Westland Baptist is also a place of welcome and usefulness to the people and organizations of Katy. The church opens its doors as an after hours meeting place for groups such as Scouts and NCL.

Blessed to be raised in a family that taught him about God’s love and plan for his life, Meadows received Christ as a child. For a time in his teen years he did not serve Christ, but God was faithful. At 19 he sensed God was calling him to be a pastor. “For over 30 years I’ve had the privilege of leading God’s people to fulfill the mission of the church,” says Meadows. “My desire is to be a man who loves God, loves and leads my wife and children, and leads the people of Westland Baptist. It is my hope to reach the lost and develop all believers into fully devoted followers of Christ.”

Friendly people, exciting services, and relevant messages are hallmarks of the church. This is why so many feel Westland Baptist is, “The Church to Call Home.” Service Times are 8:30 (traditional) and 11:00 a.m. (contemporary). Bible Fellowships start at 9:45 a.m. An Interpreter for the hearing impaired is provided during the 11 a.m. service. Westland Baptist is located at 1407 W. Grand Parkway South.

Their phone number is 281-392-5099 and their prayer line is 281-392-6552. Visit their website at westlandbaptistchurch.org for news and information.

News | No Comments »

Should Christians Vote?

February 13 2012

Do politics really matter? Does the Christian voice count in the elections of sheriffs, school boards, state representatives, governor . . . and president?

Some of the most compelling arguments for voting can be found in a recommended reading resource: Vital Truth: Christian Citizenship by  Jeffrey L. Myers, Ph.D. (Copyright 2002, LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention). Boiled down, five convincing points make voting a must for concerned men and women of conscience.

1.) We are to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20).  2.) We are to stand against evil.  3.) Christian values positively impact society,  4.) Romans chapter 13 states that we must obey governmental leaders because all authority comes from God — and in America, the people are the leaders!  5.) Good citizenship sets the example for future generations.

Based on these profound concepts, a strong case can be made that Christians should vote and their voices absolutely matter now and for years to come.

Some may wonder how to plug in and become educated. A good first step is to check out Who Represents Me? at www.fyi.legis.state.tx.ushttp://www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/. This allows voters to key in their zip code to easily access their Texas U.S. Senator, Texas State Senator, Texas State Representative, and their Texas State Board of Education Member. Contact information for all elected officials is shown.

The Christian Voter guide — www.christianvoterguide.com — shares resources for Christian advocacy in politics including the following:

Liberty Institute | www.libertyinstitute.org

Empower Texans | www.empowertexans.com

Texas Eagle Forum | www.texaseagle.org

Heritage Alliance | www.heritagealliance.com

American Family Association | www.afa.net

Texas Secretary of State  | sos.state.tx.us

In short, Christians are a powerful voting force and their opinions can affect the outcomes of local, state and national elections. As we approach an election cycle, the price for apathy and indifference may be too high to pay. Proactivity, education and active commitment in the voting booth can help ensure we govern ourselves in ways that reflect our values.

News | No Comments »

Christian Business Profile: Bright Orthodontics

February 13 2012

Walking into Dr. Bright’s office can put a smile on the face of anyone needing braces. His waiting room includes a game booth where kids can unwind as they wait to be called. An enormous fish tank extends to the ceiling and a dozen or so finches make themselves at home in a large bird habitat. These extra touches relax nervous moms, dads, tweens and teens who depend on Dr. Bright for orthodontia.

“Teeth can be tricky,” says Dr. Bright, a long-time Katy resident. “The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic check up by age 7 for every child.” He has a special interest in interceptive orthodontics which involves taking a comprehensive proactive approach at an early age of 7 to 9 years old. “Problems like thumb sucking, early or late loss of baby teeth, mouth breathing and crowded teeth can lead to problems,” he advises. And he should know! His practice has fitted braces on hundreds and hundreds of Katy kiddos . . . and grown ups, as well. “We’re treating more adults with crooked teeth, crowding, jaw problems, overbites and underbites. Invisalign braces are popular with adults, but we also fit traditional braces.”

Dr. David Bright earned his degree in Biology from Trinity University. He went on to earn his Doctorate in Dental Surgery and Master of Science degree in Orthodontics from the University of Texas Health Science Center Dental Branch in Houston, Texas. As member of the American Association of Orthodontics, Southwest Society of Orthodontists, Houston District Dental Society, Texas Dental Association, and  the American Dental Association he runs a truly caring practice.

In fact, patients in his chairs are treated to not only an array of school spirit from every high school, but also KSBJ music. He and his wife are very active in their church and their children’s lives.  He enjoys jogging, sports, outdoor activities, and gardening.

Find out more about Dr. Bright’s practice at http://brightbraces.com. He is conveniently located at 21703 Kingsland Blvd., Suite 100. Contact him  Monday – Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. His phone number is 281-599-1155.

News | No Comments »