Archive | Category News
Letter From the Publisher
December 12 2011
I recently came across something online that I thought I should share with our readers. It is especially fitting for this time of year.
Does the Bible say anything about making
New Year’s resolutions?
The Bible doesn’t mention making resolutions at the beginning of a new year — but it does urge us to examine our lives regularly, and to seek God’s help to become better persons every day. The Bible says, “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord” (Lamentations 3:40).
Did you ever ask yourself why you found it so hard to keep the resolutions you used to make? One reason may have been that they weren’t realistic, or you had no clear plan for reaching them. Many New Year’s resolutions, I’m afraid, are little more than a “wish list” — a series of things we’d like to change about our lives, but little more. They also may be very self-centered, with little thought about whether or not they are God’s will.
Another reason, however, why we fail to keep our resolutions is because we seek to reach them in our own strength instead of with God’s help. But we are spiritually and morally weak, and we will never be the people God wants us to be unless we turn to Him for the help we need. The psalmist wrote, “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2).
As we begin this new year, pause right now and ask God to show you what He wants to do in your life during this coming year. Resolve to grow closer to Christ every day, and with the help of His Holy Spirit to “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness” (1 Timothy 6:11).
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the staff of Katy Christian Magazine and please always remember to Keep Christ in Christmas!
News | No Comments »
Calendar of Events
October 13 2011
October 2011
UPWARD Basketball and Cheerleading Registration
Now – Nov. 25
Bear Creek UMC
16000 Rippling Water Dr.
Houston, TX 77084
281-463-2330
Registration for kids in Grades K – 8 for the 2011-2012 season of UPWARD Basketball and Cheerleading. The cost for UPWARD Basketball is $75.00. UPWARD Cheerleading is $80.00. For more information, visit www.hnwcc.org or call Larry Tyree at 281-463-2330.
i9 Sports Winter Leagues Registration
www.i9sports.com
281-398-7529
Registration is now open for winter leagues! Choose from Flag Football, Soccer, Basketball or Cheerleading. Practices and games are conveniently scheduled back-to-back on Saturdays. Programs are for boys and girls ages 3-14, and all skill levels are welcome. Participants can expect professional management of all program details, certified officials at every game, around the clock access to league information, standings, and team news on the website, and most importantly, a program that places greater value on fun than the score. Sign up early to save $10! Please visit www.i9sports.com or call (281) 398-PLAY (7529) for complete program details.
Gulf Coast Regional Blood Drive
Oct. 12 | 9:00 a.m.
Faith West Academy
2225 Porter Rd.
Katy, TX 77493
The National Honor Society will host a blood drive in conjunction with the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. Reservations can be made by contacting Sandye Reed at 281-391-5683 or by email sreed@faithwest.org.
Look What I’ve Found!
A concert presented by the Lone Star Symphonic Band
Oct. 16 | 4:00 p.m.
Crosspoint Community Church
700 S. Westgreen
Katy, TX
The concert will begin at 4:00 pm in the main auditorium. Tickets are $5.00 each if purchased on the band’s website, and will be $10 at the door the day of the concert.
Katy Fire & EMS Association Fundraiser
Oct. 18 | 5:00 p.m.
Katy VFW Hall
Join us for a chicken fried steak dinner and auction to benefit the Katy Fire and EMS Association. Adults $10, Children $5, Age 65 and older $5, Ages 5 and under Free. Take out is also available.
Raffle tickets may also be purchased for $1 each. First prize: Sony 55” 3D LED TV. Second Prize: $500 VISA card. Third prize: $250 Cinco Ranch Spa Package. Need not be present to win raffle drawings.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at Katy Fire Department, 1417 Ave. D or by calling 281-391-3500 to arrange for ticket delivery. Auction items, door prizes and monetary donations are always welcome. Any individual or business that wishes to donate can call 281-391-3500 to arrange for a firefighter to pick up your donation.
Fun Family Movie Night
Oct. 21st | 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Mission Bend Christian Academy
3710 Highway 6 S.
Houston, TX 77082
Concessions and children’s games begin at 6:00 p.m. – Movie begins at 7:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs! Contact the school for more information at 281-497-4057. Suggested donation of $5.00 per family.
Vineyard Abortion Recovery Weekend Retreat
Oct. 21 – 23
Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston (Katy)
1450 E. Summitry Circle
Katy, TX 77449
Our next Rachel’s Vineyard Abortion Recovery week end retreat for both men and women is October 21-23, 2011. All calls and inquiries are confidential. For additional information, visit phckaty.org or call 281-578-0078.
Girls Night Out
Oct. 26 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Memorial Hermann Katy
23900 Katy Freeway
Conference Center
Grab your girlfriends for a fun evening to learn about a variety of women’s health concerns, including breast and gynecological cancer care, from a panel of physicians affiliated with Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital. We’ll also have tips for early detection, prevention and proper screening techniques. Enjoy gourmet light bites, wine and free heel-bone density test. To register call 713.222.CARE. To schedule a mammogram call 877.704.8700.
Howl-A-Ween at the Dog Park
City of Katy
Oct. 27 | 6:00 p.m.
Tricks and treats with your for-legged goblin. Costume contents. Admission: One bag of dog food per pet will be donated to the local shelter. For more information, contact Katy Parts & Recreation at 281-391-4840.
Fall Fest
Oct. 28 | 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
CrossPoint Community Church – Westgreen
700 S. Westgreen Blvd.
Katy, TX 77450
Free family fun event, Huge Maze and Trick or Treat Alley. For additional information, visit crosspt.org and click on TheCity Plaza or call 281-398-6464.
Katy Triathlon at Firehorne
Oct. 30 | 7:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Firethorne will host the 19h Annual Katy Triathlon at Firethorne Sunday, October 30. The USA Triathlon-sanctioned race, the third largest co-ed triathlon in Texas, will be positioned in and around the 1,400-acre Firethorne residential community on FM 1463, near the crossroads of the I-10 West corridor, Westpark Tollway and Grand Parkway in Katy/Fulshear. The Rotary Club of Katy donates event proceeds to the Katy Rotary Fund, which supports local charities for their work in providing essential health, recreation and educational services to children in Katy ISD. For additional information or to register, visit Katy Triathlon katytriathlon.com.
Wild Dreams Overnight
Oct. 29 – 30 | 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Downtown Aquarium
410 Bagby St.
Houston, Texas 77002
We welcome families to enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn about and sleep near our beautiful White Tigers! $59.95 plus tax per child (ages 6 to 14). For more information email bnewton@ldry.com or visit downtownaquarium.com.
November 2011
Fall Fest
Oct. 29 | 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
CrossPoint Community Church – EightTen
1106 Witte Rd.
Houston, TX 77055
Free family fun event, Huge Maze and Trick or Treat Alley. For additional information, visit crosspt.org and click on TheCity Plaza or call 281-398-6464.
Inspire Women Presents Anita Carman’s New Book
Making Sense of Your Life: Breakthroughs To Finish The Dream
Nov. 4 | Time 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Christ Evangelical Presbyterian Church
8300 Katy Freeway
Houston, TX 77024
Registration: $15 includes the book! To register, visit inspirewomen.org, email registration@inspirewomen.org or call 713.521.0469.
Marine Biologist for a Day
Nov. 5 | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Downtown Aquarium
410 Bagby St.
Houston, Texas 77002
Explore the world of the ocean! $49.95 plus tax per child (ages 6 to 12). For more information email bnewton@ldry.com or visit downtownaquarium.com.
Outdoor Market
Nov. 5 | 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
CrossPoint Community Church – Westgreen
700 S. Westgreen Blvd.
Katy, TX 77450
Come and enjoy early holiday shopping at the Outdoor Market. For additional information, visit crosspt.org and click on TheCity Plaza or call 281-398-6464.
Fall Fest
Nov. 5 | 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
CrossPoint Community Church – SevenLakes
9251 S. Fry Rd.
Katy, TX 77494
Partnering with Seven Meadows, enjoy a free family fun event. For additional information, visit crosspt.org and click on TheCity Plaza or call 281-398-6464.
Grand Opening Celebration
Nov. 6 | 10:00 a.m.
CrossPoint Community Church – EightTen
1106 Witte Rd.
Houston, TX 77055
Join us this Sunday in celebrating our Grand Opening of our third campus. For additional information, visit crosspt.org and click on TheCity Plaza or call 281-398-6464.
The Glory & The Fire
Nov. 6 – 9 | 7:00 p.m.
All Around Cowboy Church
5812 Crosstree Lane
Sealy, TX 77474
979-885-1155
The Glory and the Fire is a powerful dramatic presentation about life after death. Since its inception in 1994, over 500,000 people have made decisions for Jesus Christ. They have toured extensively throughout the United States, Canada and South Africa. Don’t miss this riveting and moving dramatic event.
The Glory and the Fire drama play will be in our area for four incredible nights at All Around Cowboy Church in Sealy, TX. This presentation will give you a glimpse of life after death. From the moment it starts you will be on the edge of your seat. The scenes will take you on a roller coaster ride into eternity. This drama is an event you will never forget!
Zoologist for a Day
Nov. 19 | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Downtown Aquarium
410 Bagby St.
Houston, Texas 77002
Learn the ins and outs of caring for animals! $49.95 plus tax per child (ages 6 to 12). For more information email bnewton@ldry.com or visit downtownaquarium.com.
15th Annual Christians In Action Trade Show and Conference
Nov. 18 – 19
The Westin Galleria
5060 West Alabama St.
Houston, TX.
Over 200 exhibitors and 5,000 participants from various states and countries are expected to participate in the show. The event attracts a high caliber and diversity of businesses and ministries including Banks, Radio & TV Stations, Home Improvements, Hotel & Resort Industry, Churches & Church Suppliers, Interior Decorators, Clothing, Gifts, Financial & Estate Planning, Health Products & Services, Publishers, Bible Colleges, Arts/Crafts and more.
Highlights include choirs, dancers, praise and worship, and free balloon animals for children. The show is open to the public from 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Friday and 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday. Admission is $10 at the door. For additional information, visit christiantradeshows.com or call (832) 799-0150.
Honor For Life Awards Gala
Nov. 20 | 5:30 p.m.
Humble Civic Center
Real lives. Real heros. Real love. Join us to honor women who saved their rape conceived children from society’s death sentence. Tickets are $35 in advance. A full steak and chicken dinner will be served. For more information visit choices4life.org or call (281) 451-8460.
Katy YMCA Turkey Dash
Nov. 24
Katy Family YMCA
22807 Westheimer Parkway
Katy, TX 77494
5K, 1 Mile Kids Race & 1 Mile Family Walk. Awards, post race party with live band, refreshments, door prizes, kids fun zone and more! Kick off your Holiday season at the Turkey Dash! For more information, visit ymcaturkeydash.org or call 281-392-5055.
Lights of Tejas
Nov. 26 – Dec. 23
Thursday – Sunday | 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Camp Tejas
1038 Private Road 2191
Giddings, TX 78942
camptejas.org/lights-of-tejas
979-366-2422
Camp Tejas will hold its second annual Lights of Tejas on select evenings from Nov. 26 through Dec. 23. Experience over 1,000,000 lights on trees and buildings around the camp; a 30-minute orchestrated light show of over 150,000 lights to music and narration at one of the lakes on the property; and hayrides, zip lines, a climbing wall, food, a hay bale maze, and inflatables. Tickets are $8 per person and children 2 years and under will receive free admissions. Ask our our family price of $25 or group rates. For more information, visit camptejas.org/lights-of-tejas/, call 979-366-2422, or email dave@camptejas.org.
Faith West Open House
Nov. 29 | 7:00 p.m.
Faith West Academy
2225 Porter Rd.
Katy, TX 77493
Join us for a Community Open House on Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. For addiontal information, please contact FWA at 281-391-5683 x229 or visit faithwest.org.
Sr. High Drama presents Harvey
Dec. 2 – 3 | 7:00 p.m.
Faith West Academy
2225 Porter Rd.
Katy, TX 77493
Come witness for yourself the magic and mystery behind this 1945 classic. Showing will be on Friday and Saturday, December 2-3, 2011 starting at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased on campus ahead of time! For additional information, please contact FWA at 281-391-5683 x229 or visit faithwest.org
Neighborhood Christmas Block Party
Dec. 4 | 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Walmart Neighborhood Market
4810 Highway 6 North
Houston, TX
281-463-2330
Event features hot dogs, crafts, and free photos with Santa.
3rd Annual Mustang Family Fun Night
Jan. 21
Taylor High School
Help support Taylor High School Athletes. Join us for a night of fun. There will be bingo, concessions, a silent and live Auction, door prizes and a grand prize. For more information, email mustangfamilyfunnight@yahoo.com.
Recurring Events
PreSchool Playhouse
Mondays | 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Chick-fil-A – Mason Road
369 S Mason Rd
Katy, TX 77450
cfarestaurant.com/masonroad
Join us for arts & crafts, singing, dancing, story time, and play dough each week. Complimentary coffee while your little ones play. It’s Fun for Kids, Fellowship for Mom!
KidzConnection
Wednesdays | 6:30 p.m.
Faith West Academy
2225 Porter Rd.
Katy, TX 77493
KidzConnection is an evening that includes worship, games, live characters, object lessons, and tons of fun for children in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Pizza provided for a $3 charge. Contact Allen Strickland at astrickland@faithwest.org for more information or visit www.fwakidzconnection.blogspot.com.
Family Fun Night
Wednesdays | 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Chick-fil-A – Mason Road
369 S Mason Rd
Katy, TX 77450
cfarestaurant.com/masonroad
Join us for a night of family fun at Chik-fil-A on Mason Rd.
Fellowship Friday
Second Friday of each month
Bear Creek UMC
16000 Rippling Water Dr.
Houston, TX 77084
281-463-2330
Social activities and lunch provided for persons who require daily care due to Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other disabilities, while giving their caregivers some time off. No charge. For details, call Dot McLaren at 713-466-1898 or Sue Edwards at 281-463-7894.
Hour of Prayer
Third Friday of each month
Bear Creek UMC
16000 Rippling Water Dr.
Houston, TX 77084
281-463-2330
Hosted by the Prayer and Care Team the third Friday of each month, this event offers a time for reflection and meditation through prayer, scripture and music.
West Houston Women’s Bible Study
Tuesdays | 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
BridgePoint Bible Church
13277 Katy Freeway • Houston
Please join the women at BridgePoint Bible Church as we study God’s Word on Tuesday mornings. Our purpose and desire is: Teaching the Word of God. Reaching the community for Christ. Uniting together in a loving and supportive environment.
Old Testament I
Wednesdays | 6:30 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.
Sept. 7 – Dec. 7
Grace Fellowship UMC
www.whatisgrace.org
A study of the books from Genesis to Judges. We will follow the history of God’s relationship with his people with a focus on the Abrahamic and Mosaic Covenants. This class will demonstrate to the student the importance of knowing the Old Testament in order to comprehend Jesus and the New Testament. Cost: $199 for adults; $50 for students.
Holy Spirit Services
Saturdays | 7 p.m.
New Destiny Christian Fellowship Church
6830 North Eldridge Pkwy #107
Houston, TX 77041
www.annott.org
In His Presence Ministries is holding weekly Holy Spirit worship and miracle services every Saturday night at 7 pm. Meetings are located at New Destiny Christian Fellowship Church. Prophetic, dream interpretation and healing teams will be ministering at each service. Come and get a touch from God. Service will be broadcast live on the web at www.annott.org.
Feature Your Event in Katy Christian Magazine
To feature your community calendar listings in Katy
Christian Magazine, email your event information to joseph@houstonchristianmagazine.com.
Please keep all listings to under 50 words and include date, cost, times, location, etc.
News | No Comments »
Over One Million Lights at Camp Tejas
October 13 2011
Camp Tejas is hanging over 1 million lights for their second annual Lights of Tejas. The event is open on 19 select evenings from November 26 to December 23. Last year was the first Lights of Tejas with over 800,000 lights and was attended by almost 3,200 visitors. They are expecting over 6,000 people this year.
Camp Tejas is a Christian Camp and Retreat Center just south of Giddings and north of La Grange on U.S. Hwy. 77. The camp is owned and operated by Tejas Ministries, Inc. Over 18,000 guests visited the camp last year. Most of them were from Christian churches and organizations in central Texas, including the Houston metro area. During the summer months, the camp is full of children and youth enjoying multiple sessions of summer camp. In the fall and spring, the camp functions as a retreat center and guests usually stay over the weekends.
The purpose of Camp Tejas is to be a discipleship extension of the local churches of central Texas. They provide a place for training and discipleship to happen as well as participate in discipleship with their staff. Their goal is to help pass on truth to the next generation as described in Deuteronomy 6.
The month of December has always been a slow time at Camp Tejas as churches do not typically organize retreats between Thanksgiving and Christmas. About four years ago, the camp began seriously exploring the idea of decorating the facility for Christmas and opening it up to the general public for a special Christmas event. They were encouraged by a camp in the Seattle area that has been holding a similar event for the past 15 years with great success. “Warm Beach Camp in Washington is very similar to us in size and function. Their ideas helped us create our own. We learned from their advice and adapted what they do to fit our vision. They have been a great assistance to us,” says David Jones, the Executive Director and CEO of Tejas Ministries. Warm Beach now has an annual attendance of over 45,000 people for their Lights of Christmas event.
Families are always looking for fun things to do around Christmas and there’s no greater favorite than looking at Christmas lights. The Lights of Tejas will not only provide the lights, but several extras as well.
The highlight will be two light show venues where hundreds of thousands of lights will be orchestrated to music and Scripture narration. One of the other anticipated features of the event is the food. There will be plenty of options available for a full dinner or just a fun holiday snack. A variety of items will be on the menu such as Mexican food, a Cuban sandwich, pancakes, hamburgers, and mini-donuts. Open outdoor fires will be available for hotdogs and s’mores. Other activities will include hayrides, a 50’ climbing wall with two zip lines, inflatables, a hay bale maze, and face painting.
Entrance fees will be $8 per person and $25 per family. Food, gifts, and some of the activities will cost extra. For more information and ticket sales, go to www.LightsOfTejas.com.
News | No Comments »
Breaking the Press
October 13 2011
Breaking the Press: An Uplifting Story of One Family’s Faith Arrives on DVD September 20
LOS ANGELES – A young man loses his way but through the power of his family’s prayers finds the path to redemption and rediscovers the love of his father in BREAKING THE PRESS, going for the gold on DVD September 20 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.
A recent recipient of the Dove Foundation’s “Family-Approved” seal for all audiences over the age of twelve, this inspiring Biblical parable stars Drew Waters (“Friday Night Lights”) as Joe Conahey, a small-town high school basketball coach whose Christian faith is tested by an unsuccessful season and the intense pressure that results. The family’s two star sons—the older, diligently hardworking brother Matt (Chad Halbrook, Brotherhood) and the younger, naturally-gifted Josh (Tom Maden, “According to Jim”)—are separated when Josh selfishly transfers to a powerhouse school hundreds of miles away. His previous team’s top player, Josh finds difficulty adjusting to the big-city program, tempted as he is by girls, drugs, alcohol and stardom – and is subsequently expelled. Only through the power of prayer and forgiveness can the troubled ”Prodigal Son” make his way back into the arms of his loving father and find redemption for his family and his team.
BREAKING THE PRESS includes a behind-the-scenes featurette on the making of the film and will be available on single-disc DVD in the U.S. and Canada. Pre-book is August 10.
“Much like Facing the Giants, with better acting and better production value.”
Dr. Ted Baehr – MovieGuide
About Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is a recognized global industry leader and a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company. Representing 75 years of innovative and award-winning filmmaking from Twentieth Century Fox, TCFHE is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming, acquisitions and original productions on DVD, Blu-ray Disc Digital Copy, Video On Demand and Digital Download. The company also releases all products globally for MGM Home Entertainment. Each year TCFHE introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce throughout the world.
News | No Comments »
Restoring Honor and Dignity
October 13 2011
Restoring Honor and Dignity to Women and Children of Rape Conception
It’s a topic very few discuss, either from lack or awareness or general discomfort. But for women and children who were conceived in rape, their situation is very real. They live with the knowledge that their conception was a violent act. How does one process that? Further, if assaulted and faced with pregnancy, to whom does one turn?
That question is best answered by singer/songwriter and author Juda Myers who, herself, was conceived in rape. First, she formed a private Yahoo support group for birth/adoptive mothers and children of rape conception. The outpouring spurred her to form CHOICES4LIFE out of a need that had not yet been addressed (or fully embraced) by the faith community. In other words, Myers brought the subject out of darkness and into the light.
“We are on the record of valuing life, no exceptions,” says Myers. “Even pro-life advocates often make exceptions in cases of rape or incest. But I ask them to consider the value that their fellow human beings bring to the world – people such as myself who are here only because our mothers refused to abort, even under extraordinary pressure.” Myers was adopted, and after meeting her birth mother in 2005 learned of the ordeal that led to her adoption. Eight men had raped her mother and her grandmother pushed for an abortion. It was matter of conscience. Against the odds Myers was brought into the world to pursue her special mission. Her eyes had been opened to the death wish placed upon children such as herself. Only through her security in God did she come to terms with the plight of her mother, herself and others in similar circumstances.
This is not an unusual situation, although it is generally a silent subject and seemingly shameful fate . . . until now. Meyers is determined to support the decision to carry to term and seeks to educate family and friends who otherwise might pressure or abandon mothers who are faced with such a situation. She feels it is time to halt the almost “standard” compulsion to terminate pregnancies in such cases. She feels women who choose life should be celebrated. “Certainly, women pregnant from rape have not had the respect and compassion they’ve needed,” says Myers, who has devoted her life to doing something about it. Since 2003 she’s shared her testimony around the country and even in South Africa. Hearts and minds were changed even at Harvard and the United Nations with women of rape conception whispering their secret at each event.
In a first of its kind celebration, CHOICES4LIFE is hosting the Honor For Life Awards Gala in the Humble Civic Center in Humble, Texas on November 20. This unprecedented event will be held to restore honor and dignity to women and children of rape conception. “Honoring women who fought against society to save their rape conceived babies is paramount. True heroes have no regrets of giving birth to their babies. The rape is regrettable but the babies are not,” says Myers.
Visit www.choices4life.org to see real life photos of victorious women and children who have reclaimed their dignity after making (or benefiting from) a life-altering and life-affirming decision. Life advocates are invited to purchase tickets for the Honor For Life Awards Gala on November 20th. The Gala will be filled with people who have survived what few can only imagine, yet embrace their lives and circumstances with courage and pride. A delicious dinner will be served, testimonies shared, and heroes of the life movement featured.
There is help and guidance for women and children involved in rape conception. Visit http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AssaultConception/ for support and encouragement. Myers also has a helpful website at www.juda4praise.com. Also check out these helpful sites: Houston Coalition For Life, Human Life Alliance, Life Advocates of Houston, Personhood USA, Pro Life Action League, Pro Life Unity.
Myers would like Christians to reflect and consider supporting the value of human life regardless of the circumstances surrounding a conception.
News | No Comments »
Avoid This Season’s Flu with Natural Methods
October 13 2011
Avoid This Season’s Flu with Natural Methods for Strengthening Your Immune System
Fall is officially upon us. It is a festive time of year full of rich colors, cool air, falling leaves, pumpkins, and of course, Thanksgiving. Yet with all the wonderful things that come with fall, it also brings the dreaded seasonal cold and flu.
At Thanksgiving, we all have many things to be thankful for; however, it is easy to forget about taking care of one very important blessing: your health. Your immune system can really take a hit and no one wants to feel under the weather, especially during the holidays. It’s one reason why so many people consider the flu shot each year.
Flu shot . . . or not? We hear this question over and over again year after year: Should I get the flu shot? There is a lot of advertising that strongly advocates getting the flu vaccine annually. It’s easy to understand why so many people struggle with this decision. You can’t blame them. Do what the doctor tells you, or . . . Should we be concerned?
The answer is: Yes! Immunization is not the answer; good health and lifestyle are. Your best defense is to avoid vaccinations and build a healthy immune system.
Take charge of your diet
While this may seem like a challenge, especially during the holidays, focus on adding nutrient-rich, organic fruits, vegetables, and nuts to your diet and do your best to cut down on processed foods and sugar. Sugar depresses the immune system, putting your body at a disadvantage at fighting off illness. Processed foods are chemicals that poison the cells of your body. Unhealthy, malfunctioning cells lead to sickness and disease. The easiest and most cost-effective change you can make to your health is as simple as cleaning up your diet.
Get adequate sleep
Make sure you are getting eight hours of sleep each night to give your body time to recharge. Unbeknownst to you, your body is quite productive while you sleep, repairing and regenerating your cells. Healthy cells are important for a healthy immune system.
Exercise less for looks and more for health.
Did you know that your muscles and cardiovascular system are not the only parts of your body that benefit from regular exercise? It also strengthens your immune system by improving your immune response.
Take your vitamins
Probiotics – improves digestion and boosts the immune system.
Probiotics are commonly known as the “good bacteria” that line the intestinal tract and have been shown to support gut health. This may not seem like much on the surface, but scientific research has found 80 percent of the immune system to be in the GI tract; subsequently, probiotics can be very useful in maintaining a strong immune system. In fact, one study of 3,451 study participants showed that a daily dose of probiotics reduced the number of people who had at least one cold by 42 percent.
Vitamin C – helps fight infection by potentiating white blood cells. It is also particularly crucial for healthy adrenal glands.
Zinc – optimizes the immune system and has direct antiviral effects.
Garlic – fights germs responsible for causing the common cold, flu, sore throat, sinusitis and bronchitis.
Are your vitamin D levels within optimal range? Maintain high levels of vitamin D by supplementing with vitamin D3 and through natural sunlight exposure. Ask a physician to HYPERLINK “http://www.hotzehwc.com/TestYourHealth/Women-s-Vitamin-and-Mineral-Quiz.aspx” check your vitamin D levels to ensure they are up to par. The incidence of the flu decreases during the summer months as it correlates with higher levels of vitamin D.
Boost your immune system naturally: Viral Nasal Spray.
Our Center has developed a safe alternative for our patients. It is similar to over-the-counter nasal sprays and anti-viral prescriptions, yet superior in many ways. For example, it is free of thimerosal. Hotze’s viral nasal spray enhances the body’s interferon levels, which is a protein found in the body, that fights all viruses not just one specific strand. Boosting the body’s immunity against all virus strands in order to effectively fight off any viral strand upon exposure is the best defense. This is in contrast to the flu shot, which produces only antibodies to a specific strain of the flu virus. Basically, the flu shot is an educated guess as to what specific virus may be that year’s flu epidemic. If the manufacturer is wrong, the vaccine provides no protection at all. In fact, it’s estimated that the flu vaccine is effective only 11 percent of the time.
These simple but important choices will help boost your immune system and keep the cold and flu at bay. My wish for you is to have a healthy holiday season!
News | No Comments »
When Illness Strikes
October 13 2011
Illness can strike any us or our loved ones without warning and wreak life-altering havoc in our lives. So what guidance does the Bible give us in times such as these?
Let’s first look at James 5:14. “Is there any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” Prayer and anointing may seem like simple steps, but they can have powerful effect on illness that even modern medicine can’t explain. I remember a time when a pastor was waiting with a member of his congregation who needed to see a doctor. This pastor noticed that while they were waiting the man’s eyes had turned yellow. The pastor approached the desk and impressed on the doctor’s staff how urgent it was that the man be seen. He was, in fact, very ill, was rushed to the hospital, and his wife was called to his bedside. All the usual tests were run. The pastor anointed him with oil and activated the prayer chains. About three or four that morning the man’s wife was told he would not live to see breakfast. Yet this same man who as a medical certainty was quickly dying, ate lunch in his own house the same day. He went on to live much longer!
If illness strikes and becomes serious do not hesitate to call upon your pastor and other elders of the church. They are available for that purpose. Don’t discount the value of a close friend who is a committed Christian, either. God puts a variety of people in our path in times of need. The greater the need, the more we need to pay attention, keeping on the lookout for His provision.
No matter if you are the one who is ill or the one who is ministering to a sick loved one, keeping your spirits up can be very important. So important, in fact, that many hospitals have chapels, chaplains and meditation gardens to aid in this aspect of recovery. Many of the newer, more modern hospitals have emotional support factored into their architecture. The Bible speaks of the importance of this in Proverbs 18:14 “ The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity: but a wounded spirit who can bear?”
I recall another case in my previous community. An older lady was in the hospital with what we now call COPD. She wasn’t dying during this particular trip to the hospital, but she would be dying soon, and everybody knew it! Taking care not to intrude, I asked the family if she would like me to pay her a visit. The most theologically difficult thing I did the whole visit was move the tissue box closer so she could reach it. We talked about her favorite subject, namely, her kids and grandkids. She repeatedly remarked how much she hated hospitals and complained that she could never sleep in a hospital. I knew it was time to take my leave when she fell asleep! Just my Christian presence and companionship was enough comfort to allow her to do the one thing she was complaining she couldn’t do.
I often hear pastors comment about the difficulties in getting congregation members to help make hospital visits. People are afraid they won’t know what to say. The truth is in most cases, what you say doesn’t matter nearly as much as your presence. Being there can be just the right medicine. Compassion doesn’t require an advanced degree in theology, just a caring heart !
Like all circumstances involving crisis, we can look to scripture for words of comfort. Take, for instance, the words of Romans 8:18. “For I reckon the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to the Glory which shall be revealed in us . . . ” The Bible promises us that our struggles are temporary. God will best them for us, either in this life or in the next everlasting one.
News | No Comments »
Katy YMCA Turkey Dash
October 13 2011
The Katy YMCA and The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch will host the 9th annual Turkey Dash on Thanksgiving morning, November 24, 2011. The race has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years to become Katy’s premiere fun run. Last year over 3,600 participants gathered on race morning to kick off their Holiday season by participating in the Turkey Dash.
With 3 races to choose from, there’s something for everyone; a Kids Race beginning at 7:20am, 5K at 8:00am and a Family Walk/Run at 9:15am. All races start and finish at the Katy YMCA located at the corner of Westheimer Parkway and Peek Rd, one block off the Grand Parkway in Cinco Ranch.
The event was the brainchild of leaders from the Y and the church wishing to organize an activity to bring the community together. Now the Turkey Dash is a well recognized, community Holiday kick off celebration which attracts participants from all parts of West Houston.
Race day highlights include awards in age categories for the Kids Race and 5K. Live music will play during the post race party which features door prizes, complimentary snacks and games as well as a Kids Fun Zone complete with a rockwall, moonwalks, Turkey Mascot, Santa and more!
Beth Strand, race coordinator says, “We have seen family participation grow over the past few years. Families creating memories is really what the Turkey Dash is all about.” Signature Sponsor is Reliant Energy. Title sponsors include Grand Vision, DSS and Dr. Bruscia’s Family Foot & Ankle Wellness Center.
Interested in registering or volunteering? Check out details at www.ymcaturkeydash.org or call the Katy YMCA at 281-392-5055.
News | No Comments »
Pastor Profile: Tim Douglas
October 13 2011
Pastor Profile: Tim Douglas of Creekside Community Church
When people ask about Katy, Pastor Tim Douglas tells them, “Katy is a great place to live, run a business, meet diverse people and find welcoming places to worship.” His church, Creekside Community, is among those welcoming places. “We are the ‘new kid on the block’ and opened our doors on Easter Sunday, 2010, specifically to see people others may not see,” says Douglas. “We welcome anyone who wants to explore God, faith and relationships, and many of our participants haven’t been to church for years, if at all. Yet we are drawn together to serve our community and to know a Power greater than ourselves.”
Douglas holds a B.A. in Theology and a Masters of Divinity in Biblical Languages & Religious Education. He married his wife, Val, in 1992, and is the father of three teens: Kyle 13, Reagan, 15 and Jami, 17. He’s also taught piano and enjoys the musical talent that runs in his family. Val sings beautifully and his daughter, Reagan, just performed an original solo at the Cinco High Coffee House and earned rave reviews.
He and Val have followed their vision to reach the multiple ethnic groups of Katy with God’s love. Douglas served as an associate pastor at a local church and stepped down from that long-term ministry to follow this call of God. Together they began to develop the group of Christ followers and were joined from the very beginning by Associate Pastor Angelo Gonzalez and his wife Sarah, as well as Children’s Pastor Amanda Morvant and her husband, Maurice.
Churches in Katy vary in worship styles, denominational ties and community involvement. What sets Creekside apart, according to Douglas, is the congregations’s penchant for serving the needy, loving those who are less than perfect and accepting people wherever they are on their faith journey. In fact, they held five community events before ever holding their first service. “We also live intentionally, befriending those who are not like us in ethnicity, socioeconomic status or in age. We love the diversity of people God has placed around us,” says Douglas of the come-as-you-are atmosphere at Creekside.
Even being small congregation, Creekside spends a huge amount of their money in mission work. “We took 8 people to an African orphan village, and every month we raise money or goods (like school supplies) for a local ministry such as Katy christian Ministries. We may fix an elderly person’s house or respond as we hear of a need. The goal is to make sure people don’t get busy sitting in church,” says Douglas. “I like to see us not so much as a church, but as a movement.”
Creekside Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 on the Woodcreek Junior High campus located at 1801 Woodcreek Bend Lane. Check out their upcoming events at www.thecreekside.org.
News | No Comments »
Christian Business Profile: Randy Smith of Appian Commercial Lending
October 13 2011
Randy Smith is a local Christian businessman and founder of Appian Commercial Lending. He ran as a Republican for state office in 2006. As a busy father of three (Audrey, Dalton and Rachel), husband to Heather and a volunteer with the Katy Area Republicans, he still finds time to support charitable organizations. For years he has co-sponsored scholarships for two worthy organizations along with friend and State Representative John Zerwas, M.D., of District 28, representing much of Katy and Fort Bend.
Mourning a good friend and business partner
Smith is mourning the unexpected death of his business partner, Chris Wadkins, who Smith recently brought onboard at Appian Commercial Lending. “Last month I was concerned that my partner missed my daughter’s birthday party. That evening I learned he passed away the night before. Chris Wadkins was more than a partner and more like a brother to me and an uncle to my children. We’d been friends for 25 years and have spent the last 20 years of helping families purchase and refinance residential homes along with commercial lending. I’m going to miss Chris terribly,” says Smith, who has picked up the reins but still struggles with the loss. “Over the last few years both Chris and I have witnessed the effects of banks closing and the subsequent increased lending restrictions. For these reasons we made the decision to move our focus away from the residential lending into the commercial arena.”
The business attributes of Appian Commercial Lending
By combining their years of experience and commercial banking and private investment contacts, the firm realized a huge opportunity in the amount of people they could help with their commercial needs to acquire non-owner residential homes, office buildings, land and SBA business loans. “We also have added a new cash advance business loan program for merchant,” says Smith. “With the increased banking restrictions many business owners and commercial property owners are turning to our private lending sources to obtain short term bridge loans and then seek SBA loans as an exit strategy.” Unlike most commercial lenders, the Appian Way of commercial lending is the first to combine superior commercial lending sources, loan packaging, and loan processing with the strong components of a website with proprietary technology. This is the founding philosophy at Appian Commercial Lending.
Giving back to the community
For years Smith and Representative John Zerwas, M.D., hosted events benefiting the Fort Bend Sheriff’s Deputy Student Scholarship Fund and the Future Leader’s Student Scholarship fund. “It’s easy to take for granted family, friends, good health and a successful business,” says Smith. “I had everything I wanted but something was missing. I shared these thoughts with a Christian childhood friend, George Abboud from Smart Group Houston, to whom I refer customers for financial advice. He invited me to a week-end CMBC Christians businessmen’s retreat. It was an awesome weekend. God opened my eyes and I decided to begin tithing part of my commission back to the less fortunate. I contribute to the KIVA project in giving non-recourse loans to families in torn countries like Iraq and Afghanistan. My vision and hope is that we help change the hearts of those people who may otherwise join our enemies. I pray this may help bring one soldier home safely.”
Smth also wants to honor his partner, Chris. He and Gary Wadkins, Chris’ father, are establishing the Christopher Wadkins Memorial Fund and will give to Christian organizations from the loans they close. “As Appian Commercial Lending grows we hope to increase our contributions. Chris would want it that way,” says Smith.
On the home front
Smith grew up in Katy back in the mid 1970s and came back to raise his family. Smith is fascinated by history and has a collection of antique weapons dating back to the battle for Texas independence. He started his collection to encourage his children to learn more about history. Smith’s two older children, Audrey and Dalton, were recently the inspiration for a legislative bill that seeks to “borrow” the Gray’s Flag, captured by Mexico at the Alamo, for display at the State Capital or at the Alamo. He and Heather are celebrating a 12th wedding anniversary this month. The family attends Grace Fellowship.
From the heart
“My advice to people is to remember that money and credit scores will always come and go, but we should never allow a moment to pass by without hugging someone we love and spending time with those we care about,” says Smith. “Death is always sad but not the end. In fact is the beginning of true life. We are nor perfect and we all have our weaknesses but taking a moment to read a few pages of the Bible and giving thanks for God’s many blessings is the best therapy for me.”
Contact
“If you are a Realtor with clients looking to buy investment homes or a home investor please visit our web site,” says Smith. “We also can help small businesses with merchant cash advance loans by using their future credit card cash receivables as collateral.” Visit Appian Commercial Lending at www.applending.com.
