This holiday season, Northwest Assistance Ministries’ toy drive in Spring, Tx, which has been around for more than 15 years, should be even stronger with Chick-fil-A joining Houston Northwest Medical Center in support with donation boxes. “The collaboration between HNMC and Chick-fil-A for this year’s toy drive is a wonderful example of how our community comes together to support NAM. These two entities continue to champion our cause, which enables us to continue helping those in need in our community,” stated Linda Fullerton, volunteer coordinator at NAM.

To support programs that enhance the quality of life in the community, the toy drive is a continuation of HNMC’s commitment. The hospital donated more than $15,600 to support NAM through food and toy drives, as well as the annual Jeans and Jewels fundraiser, in 2008. Drew Kahn, chief executive officer at HNMC stated “The combined efforts of this toy drive will help make the holidays special for children in our area. We appreciate the opportunity to team up with Chick-fil-A and share the holiday spirit by supporting such a worthy cause.”

Last year, the value of the toys that were distributed was about $200,000. Donated funds went mostly toward NAM’s food distribution program. More commonly, people donate toys for the holiday toy drive than money, Fullerton said. “We distributed toys to 3,351 children and teens, and were able to feed 1,163 families a holiday dinner. We expect to see many more children this year, and this (collaboration) will hopefully generate more toy donations,” Fullerton stated.

At the hospital only, a drop box for monetary donations is available, not in restaurants. The drop box can be found in the Women’s Atrium lobby. The toy drive’s slogan of “neighbors helping neighbors” has a new meaning this year, and NAM hopes this will inspire everyone to give, through the business partnerships. Fullerton stated, “The holidays are a wonderful time to reach out to those in need. It is wonderful to know that we at NAM are helping to put smiles on so many children’s faces, giving them a wonderful memory for the holiday season.”

Houston Northwest Medical Center is just one of a number of hospitals in Spring. To view other hospitals in the area, see Hospitals in Spring, Tx.

Everything and everybody is focused on the children, at Houston Northwest Medical Center’s dedicated pediatric unit in Spring, Tx. Parents can rest assured knowing that their child is receiving personalized care in an environment specifically designed for pediatric patients, from a pediatric hospitalist and specially trained nurses to private suites and a kid-friendly menu. Every child is cared for by a pediatrician, a pediatric hospitalist who specializes in the care of children admitted to a hospital. Such as having a pediatrician on call 24 hours a day and available day or night, seven days a week to monitor a child’s condition, the hospitalist program provides numerous benefits for patients. Concerning a parent’s child’s condition, having access to a hospital with a pediatric hospitalist program allows parents to consult with a doctor more readily about any concerns they may have.

Patients might see their doctors once a day during routine rounds, under traditional practices. Rather than waiting until the next day, a pediatric hospitalist can modify treatment or follow up on a test result. This hands-on approach may not only result in shorter hospital stays, but also could prevent medical complications. “We know that children’s health care needs are different from those of adults. That is why we provide special reassurance to children to help them cope during a procedure so they understand why they are at the hospital,” stated Dr. Adriane Garcia, pediatric hospitalist on the medical staff at Houston Northwest Medical Center.

The hospital’s pediatric unit offers numerous child-friendly amenities, in addition to receiving care designed specifically for children. To help make a child’s stay more comfortable, and sleeping accommodations in the room are available for a parent, the dedicated unit offers spacious rooms decorated. In each room, Wi-Fi access is provided as well as a plasma TV with video games and an unlimited complimentary movie package. While in the hospital, another amenity that can help children maintain a sense of normalcy is a toy-filled playroom where young patients can play and be less distracted about being away from home. From which children can select their favorite foods (with guidance from their physician and parents), a dedicated menu is offered.

Houston Northwest Medical Center is just one of several fine hospital facilities in Spring. To view other hospitals in the area, see Hospitals in Spring, Tx.

The first week in November, the Conservatory Senior Living in Champion Forest in Spring, Tx will be kicking off the holiday season by offering its residents and guests a jam-packed week of 1950s entertainment with its “Thrifty 50’s” theme. Such as root beer floats, hula-hoop contests, an Elvis impersonator and an “I Love Lucy” marathon shown in the Conservatory’s private onsite Starlite Theatre Every day will present a blast from the past.

The residents and guests of The Conservatory will be pulling out the poodle skirts and leather jackets to jitterbug the night away to kick off The Conservatory’s Thrifty 50’s move-in special offer on Saturday, November 7. In addition to its very popular Senior Savings Plan, the senior living facility will be commemorating the 1950s by offering new residents $50 monthly rent for the first and second months with a two-year lease.

On Tuesday, November 17, visit the Conservatory at Champion Forest for some holiday shopping. The Conservatory is set to be hosting its own version of Nutcracker Market, which is very well known. While keeping budgets in check, shoppers will be able to find unique holiday treasures among hand-selected artisans and epicureans. Senior advisor at The Conservatory, Tobie Jo Baker, stated “We have our fingers on the pulse of the community. The community is looking for economical ways to decorate and celebrate the holidays without altering their family’s expectations of a truly magical holiday experience.”

For the residents of The Conservatory, a private preview shopping hour has been scheduled from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. and will open to the public at 10 a.m. Warm seasonal refreshments will be provided to all guests and many delightful entertainers are scheduled throughout the day. On Saturday, December 12, The Conservatory at Champion Forest invites everyone to an evening with friends in a “Toast to the World” holiday event, to wrap up the holiday season. During this wonderful night, six different countries will be highlighted with luxurious hors d’oeuvres and sparkling cocktails distinctive of each nation’s seasonal traditions.

Provided for residents and guests of The Conservatory Senior Living communities, each of these events is only a small part of the very active social calendar. Please call 281-370-3102 for more information. Conservatory Senior Living at Champion Forest is located in Spring at 8215 Cypresswood Drive, by Raveneaux Country Club.

One in three people aged 65 or older falls each year and more than 1.6 million older Americans visit the emergency room for fall-related injuries, according to the National Institute of Health. Falls are the number one cause of fractures, hospital admissions for trauma, loss of independence and injury deaths, among older adults.

Ray Tilger of Spring, Tx doesn’t want to become a statistic. To decrease his chance for falls, the 75-year-old has taken measures. Tilger stated he is at a high risk for falls. He has bad balance, drop foot, which is the inability to raise the front part of the foot due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot and doesn’t stand up straight correctly.

These things are the result from surgery he had last year, according to Tilger. “I had an operation last year and was in a coma for a few months. I had to do at-home therapy, I lost 60 pounds and now I’m trying to get my strength back,” Tilger stated. He was introduced to a new way to identify risk factors for falls among high-risk adults, the Biodex Balance System, offered by Houston Northwest Medical Center. In August, the hospital began offering it to patients.

“It was new to me. I’d never seen it. It seems to really have helped me in a lot of ways. It shows me where my problems are,” stated Tilger. In August, Tilger began using the balance system and said he does it twice a week. He stated, “It’s a big machine where you stand on a round piece of metal and they teach you to stand there and stay still. They require you to balance on different levels. Since I’ve started doing it, my balance has really improved.”

He’s given exercises to do at home in between the balance work and his progress is checked periodically, according to Tilger. “Some people can just jump up and go. I have to get up and stand there for a minute while I gather my bearings,” he stated.

Tilger’s wife, Mary, mentioned that at age 97, her mother fell and broke her hip. He’s working hard to get back in the shape he was in before his surgery, Tilger stated. “Now I can’t even mow the lawn. I’m working really hard to get back in shape,” he added.

Houston Northwest Medical Center is one of the many hospitals in Spring. To view other hospitals in the area, see Hospitals in Spring, Tx.

In the month of October, the Spring Independent School District Boundary Committee has scheduled community forums to gather community feedback regarding boundary proposals for the new Gloria Marshall Elementary School that will open in August 2010 at 24505 Birnamwood Drive in Spring, Tx. Three choices will be presented at 7 p.m. Monday, October 26, at Northgate Crossing Elementary School, 23437 Northgate Crossing Blvd., and 7 p.m. Thursday, October 29, at Jenkins Elementary School, 4615 Reynaldo Drive.

Options A, B and C would change the attendance zone boundaries for Anderson Elementary, Burchett Elementary, Hirsch Elementary, Jenkins Elementary, McNabb Elementary, Northgate Crossing Elementary, Salyers Elementary, Smith Elementary and Winship Elementary. Every forum is set to conclude with a chance for community members to share their suggestions and ask questions. “Input from community members is a vital part of this process because this is their school. Although they are well-represented on the committee, we want to know what the greater community thinks about the proposed options before the committee proceeds with a recommendation,” stated Christine Porter, associate superintendent for financial services.

The Boundary Committee is made up of business owners, parents, community members and resource staff. The committee relies its suggestions on the Spring ISD 2015 findings and directions, vision and committee negotiations. Guiding decisions that are made for the district, the directions and findings is a document approved by the Spring ISD board. Also, provided by Population and Survey Analysts, the group studies demographic data. Gloria Marshall Elementary School is scheduled to open as a “green” facility and is set to include geothermal heating and cooling and natural light in every classroom. The 105,000-square-foot, two-story facility will feature elements allowing the building to be used as a teaching tool, such as a weather station and a science garden, as well.

At 9:30 a.m. on Monday, October 19, the Spring Independent School District will hold a dedication ceremony for Helen Major Elementary School. Located at 16855 Sugar Pine Drive just south of FM 1960 in Spring, Tx, the school opened in August 2009 under the leadership of Principal J.C. Harville. The school is focusing on “building a community” of Major’s students, staff and parents, according to Harville. Harville asked the students themselves to participate in the selection process for the school’s mascot, with that goal in mind. In the main hallway of the school, their choice, the All-Stars, is included in a mural surrounding a large skylight.

Representing different areas of learning where students can achieve and excel, the painting includes designs. Harville stated, “We want our kids to be all-stars, not just in academics but in drama, athletics and music also.” The dedication ceremony is set to include all-star performances by the students who will lead the ceremony and sing a selection of songs as well. Following the dedication that will give guests the opportunity to see the mural, tours will be offered. The new school includes a science lab and incorporates educational technology throughout the building with interactive white boards by SMART Technologies Inc. and projectors in almost every classroom, in addition.

To accommodate 800 pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade students, the facility was designed by PBK Architects and built by Purcell Construction. In 1973, the school is named after Helen Major, long-time educator who began her career. In 1979, she taught elementary students in Louisiana and New York prior to coming to Spring ISD as a teacher at Anderson Elementary School and later in 1988 as a teacher at Link Elementary. In 1996, she became the assistant principal at Clark Elementary and was named the principal at the same school in January 2000. Major opened the new Clark Intermediate School in January 2003 as principal, where she served until she retired in 2008.

Helen Major Elementary School is the newest addition to elementary schools in Spring. To view other schools, see Elementary Schools in Spring, Tx.

In a way that kids as young as the age of 6 can apply what they learned daily, it is the aim of Kids’ Church to teach children the lessons of the Bible. Serving kids in three classes from birth on up to teenage years at the Family Life Christian Center in Spring, Tx, part of KidsLife ministry, the Kids’ Church group is made up of children aged 6-11 years old. The children learn to hear Bible stories, worship, watch puppet shows/skits and participate in other creatively designed sessions to strengthen their relationship with God.

Pastor Mike Thakur stated, “We teach the concepts and lessons of the Bible stories, but instead of moving on from ‘Jonah and the Whale’ to the next story, we show them how to apply the lessons to everyday life. Our hope is that if the kids can get the full meaning of these lessons then as adults they will stay with them, whether they continue to go to church or not.” When it comes to getting kids’ attention, the Good Book has all sorts of things to compete with. In today’s society, it is too easy for the impressionable minds of children to get negatively influenced. “Children are the most important part of the church because they get information from so many places, TV, music, the Internet. If we can’t get a sprinkling of spirituality into them by the time they become teenagers it will become really hard to reach them later,” according to Thakur.

Thakur stated he finds that is the most approachable time for children to expand on traditional bible lessons. “By that age, kids start thinking things through for themselves and link things together. And it’s great that they have questions. We don’t want to brainwash anybody. We want to help them come to their own conclusions,” he said. A number of parents of kids in the program said their kids used to not want to go to church. Now, they are motivated to attend and engage in intriguing conversations.

Family Life Christian Center is one of several churches in Spring. To check out other churches in Spring, see Churches in Spring, Tx.

On Thursday, October 8 at 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., College Night in Klein ISD was held for the four high schools and the Vistas High School Program.

This annual event was held at Champion Forest Baptist Church, 15555 Stuebner Airline Road in Spring, Tx.

For the convenience of families who wish to apply for financial assistance, many financial aid workshops were offered throughout the event.

Also, a financial aid workshop in Spanish was offered.

Representatives from several colleges offered mini-orientations concerning college life and requirements.

From both parents and students, questions were welcomed during these sessions.

For selected colleges, open visitation with each college representative was followed by half-hour individual sessions.

To ensure that more colleges will be available for visitations, the district offers a consolidated College Night format.

To see all high schools in Spring, see High Schools in Spring, Tx.

Although the boys never get a true home game because Spring High School in Spring, Tx doesn’t have enough courts to play on, the Spring tennis team plays a total of eight district games. A Spring’s four courts are used for girls home games while the boys play at Dekaney, the boys and girls tennis seasons run simultaneously. Spring tennis coach, Melissa Sanders, said “It’s hard to get friends or family to watch because half of the team is always playing away. Our courts are run down and other teams complain about them all of the time. It’s embarrassing for people to see them because about a year ago some kids threw paint all over our courts and there has never been any money to paint over it.”

With hopes to add two to four more, the school currently has four courts. The program got permission to use the adjacent land for the additions, just recently. Also, so the tennis team hopes community members take an interest in the project that is estimated to cost at least $20,000, the community uses the courts. Similar to Planet Ford’s sponsorship of Spring baseball team’s field, a company that sponsors the construction would get a court or scholarship named after it.

Although it always existed, the need for new courts may seem new. The team only had a dozen kids when Sanders came to the school. There are more 60 total players in the program now. Sanders stated, “The program got put on the back burner for about eight years and now we are trying to revitalize it. That’s hard to do because we don’t have the proper equipment or courts.” The team could actually raise money itself, if it wasn’t for the lack of playing space.

Based in Spring, Tx, Dr. Raymond McLendon of Clear Choice Orthodontics used his tooth whitening talent to help raise funds for 10 charities. Recently, Share a Smile Foundation sponsored a day where people were able to get their teeth bleached with a donation as little as $50, Free Custom Bleaching Day. “Suggested donations were $100 or more since the full value of the whitening was $350 but a number of people gave $50 and that was very much appreciated. A few people, who understood that it was all about the charities, gave much more than $350 and we congratulate those who concentrated more on what they gave than what they got. If it inspires other businesses to do something similar, or if it encourages kids to think of what good deed they could do, it would have all been worth it,” stated McLendon.

Each cent of the more than $7,000 raised went straight to the charity of the people’s selection. Participating charities included Building Bridges of Hope, Be An Angel, FamilyTime, Forgotten Angels, The University of Texas, Lance Armstrong Foundation, Friends of MCAS, MD Anderson Cancer Center, USO, Shriner’s Hospital, The Breast Cancer Charities of America and Zach Jones Foundation. At every Clear Choice location and the event itself, information about each charity was available. Even some of these charities had personal representatives present.

Marketing coordinator for Clear Choice Orthodontics, Angie Alberti, said “It meant a lot to me to take part in this. I lost a very dear friend to breast cancer and I know first hand what a tremendous role these charities make in the lives of those who need them the most.” There were three doctors and more than 40 employees on hand to take people’s impressions and make custom trays, on the day of the event. Alberti stated, “News reports say that charitable giving is down this year due to the poor economy, so Dr. McLendon decided to do something positive to turn this trend around.”

Clear Choice Orthodontics is just one of many dentist offices located in Spring. For more information on dentist offices in Spring, see Dentists in Spring, Tx.